Synthesis of Fluorapatite Nanorods and Nanowires by Direct Precipitation from Solution

In natural tooth enamel fluoride is always present in the carbonated hydroxyapatite mineral and plays a key role in the prevention of tooth decay. In this study we aimed at mimicking this natural anti-caries ability of the tooth by developing new, effective anticaries materials using fluorapatite nanorods or nanowires. We therefore investigated the conditions necessary to synthesize fluorapatite nanorods of different size, shape and composition for future use either directly or indirectly, that is by incorporation into dental materials, in the treatment and prevention of caries. By controlling the chemical conditions, nanorods of desirable chemical composition and dimension were produced. The mechanism of how these structures were formed is also proposed.