Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD

Topical Fluorides for Oral Health Benefits

Title

Topical Fluorides for Oral Health Benefits

Presented By

Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD

Custom Dental Formulations, LLC

Presentation Time

9:00-9:45AM

Abstract

With 75+ years of focused fluoride research and significant reductions in anticaries experience, fluoride has certainly solidified its place in oral health. From water fluoridation to prescription strength fluoride products, the primary purpose of fluoride is to combat tooth decay and is recognized by the FDA and ADA as the only accepted anticaries agent. While fluoride is considered the gold standard in anticaries benefits, originally this active drug ingredient was not created in a lab and was not intended for both children and adults. In fact, analytical methods had to be established first to properly assay fluoride and determine ‘safe’ levels. This presentation provides the fluoride backstory, discusses fluoride pharmacokinetics, and details the fundamental impact in the oral environment when exposed to ‘high’ or ‘low’ fluoride concentrations. With respect to fluoridated toothpaste available in the U.S., there are only three allowed fluoride sources: sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, and stannous fluoride. Formulations with each of these fluorides present unique challenges and must adhere to monograph requirements for minimum fluoride availability and efficacy. Examples of why or how each of these fluorides could be used will be also be presented.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Is fluoride a drug or cosmetic when used in topical dental products?

2. Was fluoride developed in a controlled environment like present-day active drug ingredients?

3. Does water fluoridation use the same fluoride as that in topical dental products?

4. How long does fluoride get retained in the mouth?

5. Does age affect fluoride accumulation?

6. If swallowed, where would fluoride most likely be introduced into the circulatory system?

7. How do ‘high’ vs. ‘low’ fluorides impact remineralization?

8. Which type of fluoride is sometimes termed the ‘antibacterial fluoride’?

9. Is fluoride helpful in reducing hypersensitivity?

10. In formulating a fluoride product with calcium carbonate, which fluoride salt might best be used and why?

Meet the Speaker

Dr. Robert L. Karlinsey is a scientist and formulator with almost 20 years’ experience in dental research. He earned a BS in Physics (University of Scranton) and PhD in Chemical Physics (Indiana University), with postdoctoral work in physical chemistry (Indiana University). As a visiting assistant research professor at the Indiana University School of Dentistry, his research led to an impactful encounter with Dr. George Stookey, and shortly thereafter, the formation of Indiana Nanotech, LLC (now known as Custom Dental Formulations, LLC), of which he spearheaded all research and small-scale manufacturing efforts. Dr. Karlinsey is the inventor of Nanotech’s functionalized tricalcium phosphate systems, which continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales for a major dental manufacturer. As Principal Investigator, his work has received significant funding through Federal (National Institutes of Health), State (Indiana and Texas), and industry grants and contracts. His research in patented calcium phosphate technologies continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales. Previously, Dr. Karlinsey has served as Chief Scientific Officer at Therametric Technologies, Inc, and adjunct professor of chemistry at the University of Indianapolis.

Dr. Karlinsey addresses clients’ needs in preventive and cosmetic dentistry, including fluoride- and fluoride-free remineralization, antiplaque/gum health, whitening systems, and more. He is actively involved in clinical and laboratory research designs and performance-backed, customized oral care formulation solutions. And, whenever possible, he favors natural, nature-derived, and/or sustainably sourced ingredients