This in vitro investigation explored the protective potential of high-concentration fluoride and remineralizing agents (F-APC) against dental erosion in the context of competitive swimming. Forty-eight extracted teeth were collected, stored in saline, and assigned to three experimental conditions. In the control group (G1), teeth were half-submerged in chlorinated pool water. In the fluoride group (G2), teeth were fully immersed in chlorinated water, with one half of each tooth surface treated once weekly with a concentrated fluoride preparation. In the remineralization group (G3), teeth were also fully immersed, and half of each surface received a F-APC application after each exposure. Immersions lasted 4 hours per day over a 4-week period.
In G1, erosion was significantly more pronounced on submerged surfaces compared to non-submerged ones at week 3 (p = 0.019) and week 4 (p = 0.0007), affecting four and eight surfaces, respectively. In G2, untreated portions displayed higher wear at week 4 (p = 0.039), with three surfaces affected by erosive tooth wear (ETW). Similarly, in G3, untreated areas showed greater ETW at week 4 (p = 0.019), with four surfaces affected. These results suggest that chlorinated pool water can contribute to dental erosion, particularly when pH levels approach critical thresholds. Application of high-concentration fluoride once weekly for 5 minutes or routine F-APC treatment effectively mitigates erosion and preserves tooth integrity.
