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To assess the effect of a fluoride varnish and gel on the erosive wear of primary and permanent teeth.

Sixty human primary (n=30) and permanent (n=30) enamel specimens were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: APF gel (1.23% F), NaF varnish (2.26% F), and control (no treatment). Fluoride gel was applied for 4min and fluoride varnish for 24h. Six daily demineralisation–remineralization cycles of 5min of immersion in a cola drink (pH 2.3) and 30min in artificial saliva were conducted during 7 days. All specimens were stored in artificial saliva between and after cycles. Surface Knoop microhardness (%SMHC) readings were performed at baseline, 48h and 7 days. Data were tested using ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p<0.05).

For primary enamel, the mean %SMHC (±SD) after 48h and 7 days was, respectively: gel (31.0±14.4 and 36.9±7.5), varnish (26.7±9.5 and 38.3±8 …