The use of mouthwash containing trimetaphosphate as an adjunct therapy to fluoridated toothpaste reduces enamel demineralization.

INTRODUCTION: The decline in dental caries has been attributed to the widespread use of fluoride (F). Two forms of presentation are fluoridated toothpaste (FT) and mouthwash (MW), widely used by the population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study aimed to evaluate in vitro the effects of combining FT and MW, whether supplemented with sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP) or not, on dental enamel demineralization. Bovine enamel blocks (n = 60) were selected based on initial surface hardness (SHi) and divided into 5 experimental groups (n = 12 each): I) Placebo Toothpaste (without F/TMP); II) 1100 ppm F Toothpaste (FT); III) 1100F associated with a MW at 100 ppm F (FT + MW 100F); IV) 1100F associated with a MW at 225 ppm F (FT + MW 250F); and V) 1100F associated with a MW at 100 ppm F supplemented with 0.4 % TMP (FT + MW 100F-TMP). The blocks were treated twice a day, undergoing 5 pH cycles over 7 days. Thus, the percentage change in surface hardness (%SH), integrated subsurface hardness loss (ΔKHN), and the concentration of F, phosphorus (P), and calcium (Ca) in the enamel were determined. The data were submitted to ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls test (p < 0.001). RESULTS: The 1100F group was statistically inferior to the groups associated with MW for %SH, ΔKHN, and the concentration of P and Ca in the enamel (p < 0.001). Blocks treated with FT + MW 225F and FT + MW 100F-TMP showed significantly lower %SH compared to the other groups (p < 0.001). The FT + MW 100F - TMP group exhibited the lowest depth mineral loss (ΔKHN), and higher concentration de P in enamel (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The adjunct use of MW with FT produces a greater protective effect in inhibiting enamel demineralization, and the supplementation of TMP to the MW with 100F provides a superior effect compared to MW with 225F. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This combination of treatments could be regarded as one of several alternative fluoride supplements for subjects at elevated risk of caries.

Prevalence and risk factors of recurrent aphthous stomatitis among college students at Mangalore, India.

Background: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is one of the most common oral mucosal diseases affecting an approximate 25% of the world's population. Some common etiological factors are genetics, nutritional deficiencies, stress and immune dysfunction. There is currently no specific medication to treat the condition but RAS tends to heal by itself within a week or two. We aimed to explore about the prevalence and related risk factors of recurrent aphthous ulcers among college students aged 18-30 years who had been affected within the preceding six months prior to the study duration. Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted among 681 students from four colleges in Mangalore, Karnataka, India after obtaining the approval for the same from the respective colleges. Consenting participants returned a survey containing various questions. The collected data was then analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee. Results: Of the 681 participants, 322 (47.2%) were affected with RAS in the past six months which included 131 (40.6%) males and 191 (59.3%) females. Single mouth ulcers were the most common presentation seen among the study participants (74.2%). Factors showing statistically significant association were: family history of RAS (P < 0.001), known diabetics (P < 0.001), history of smoking (P < 0.001), oral trauma (P < 0.001), history of wearing braces/dentures (P < 0.001) as well as those using toothpastes containing sodium lauryl sulphate (P < 0.001), stress and lack of sleep (P < 0.001). The most common form of medication used were topical agents (43.1%) (P < 0.001). Conclusions: There was a statistically significant association between the occurrence of RAS and family history of RAS, diabetes, smoking, history of braces/dentures, oral trauma, sodium lauryl sulphate toothpastes, lack of sleep, stress, menstruation, consumption of particular foods and beverages. Further research is needed in this field to truly understand the prevalence and risk factors of RAS and to help in discovering a treatment modality for this condition.

Randomized clinical trial on the clinical effects of a toothpaste containing extra virgin olive oil, xylitol, and betaine in gingivitis.

To determine the effects on gingival bleeding, dental biofilm, and salivary flow and pH in patients with gingivitis of using toothpaste with extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), xylitol, and betaine in comparison to a placebo or commercial toothpaste. This controlled, double blinded, and multicenter randomized clinical trial included patients with gingivitis randomly assigned to one of three groups: test group (EVOO, xylitol, and betaine toothpaste), control group 1 (placebo toothpaste), or control group 2 (commercial toothpaste). Percentage supragingival biofilm and gingival bleeding were evaluated at baseline (T0), 2 months (T2), and 4 months (T4), measuring non-stimulated salivary flow and salivary pH. Comparisons were performed between and within groups. The final study sample comprised 20 in the test group, 21 in control group 1, and 20 in control group 2. In comparison to control group 1, the test group showed significantly greater decreases in gingival bleeding between T4 and T0 (p = 0.02) and in biofilm between T2 and T0 (p = 0.02) and between T4 and T0 (p = 0.01). In the test group, salivary flow significantly increased between T2 and T0 (p = 0.01), while pH alkalization was significantly greater between T4 and T0 versus control group 2 (p = 0.01) and close-to-significantly greater versus control group 1 (p = 0.06). The toothpaste with EVOO, xylitol, and betaine obtained the best outcomes in patients with gingivitis, who showed reductions in gingival bleeding and supragingival biofilm and an increase in pH at 4 months in comparison to a commercial toothpaste.

Development of a Root Caries Prediction Model in a Population of Dental Attenders.

Root caries prevalence is increasing as populations age and retain more of their natural dentition. However, there is generally no accepted practice to identify individuals at risk of disease. There is a need for the development of a root caries prediction model to support clinicians to guide targeted prevention strategies. The aim of this study was to develop a prediction model for root caries in a population of regular dental attenders. Clinical and patient-reported predictors were collected at baseline by routine clinical examination and patient questionnaires. Clinical examinations were conducted at the 4-year timepoint by trained outcome assessors blind to baseline data to record root caries data at two thresholds - root caries present on any teeth (RC > 0) and root caries present on three or more teeth (RC ≥ 3). Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed with the number of participants with root caries at each outcome threshold utilized as the outcome and baseline predictors as the candidate predictors. An automatic backwards elimination process was conducted to select predictors for the final model at each threshold. The sensitivity, specificity, and c-statistic of each model's performance was assessed. A total of 1,432 patient participants were included within this prediction model, with 324 (22.6%) presenting with at least one root caries lesion, and 97 (6.8%) with lesions on three or more teeth. The final prediction model at the RC >0 threshold included increasing age, having ≥9 restored teeth at baseline, smoking, lack of knowledge of spitting toothpaste without rinsing following toothbrushing, decreasing dental anxiety, and worsening OHRQoL. The model sensitivity was 71.4%, specificity 69.5%, and c-statistic 0.79 (95% CI: 0.76, 0.81). The predictors included in the final prediction model at the RC ≥ 3 threshold included increasing age, smoking, and lack of knowledge of spitting toothpaste without rinsing following toothbrushing. The model sensitivity was 76.5%, specificity 73.6%, and c-statistic 0.81 (95% CI: 0.77, 0.86). To the authors' knowledge, this is the largest published root caries prediction model, with statistics indicating good model fit and providing confidence in its robustness. The performance of the risk model indicates that adults at risk of developing root caries can be accurately identified, with superior performance in the identification of adults at risk of multiple lesions.

Nivel de conocimiento de los padres sobre el uso de pastas dentales en asociación con la ingesta estimada de fluoruro en niños / Level of knowledge in parents about the use of toothpaste in association with estimated fluoride intake in children

Resumen Introducción: Diversos estudios han demostrado que los padres aún no cuentan con el conocimiento suficiente sobre el uso de pastas dentales que deben consumir sus hijos. Muchos de ellos desconocen desde que edad se debe empezar con el uso de pastas dentales, la cantidad exacta que se debe colocar en el cepillo y sobre todo con qué frecuencia se deben cepillar. Objetivo: Asociar el nivel de conocimiento de los padres sobre el uso de pastas dentales con las características asociadas a la ingesta estimada de fluoruro en niños entre los 6 meses a 8 años de Lima Metropolitana y Callao. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de tipo observacional, descriptivo y transversal. Se realizó el cuestionario a 264 padres de familia residentes en Lima Metropolitana y Callao durante los meses de julio a septiembre del 2020. Se calcularon las frecuencias absolutas y relativas. Para el análisis bivariado, se utilizó la prueba de Chi cuadrado de El nivel de significancia estadística fue de 0.05. Resultados: Se observa que el 52.94% de los padres, así como el 60.41% de las madres presentan un nivel medio de conocimiento sobre el uso de pastas dentales con flúor. Además, se obtuvo que el 56.25% de los padres que afirmaron que sus hijos no se enjuagan con agua después del cepillado presentan un nivel alto de conocimiento sobre el uso de pastas dentales con flúor. Conclusión: Se obtuvo que el 57.58% de los padres tenían un nivel medio de conocimiento sobre el uso de pastas dentales con flúor. Se encontró asociación entre el nivel de conocimiento sobre el uso de pastas dentales con flúor y las características asociadas a la ingesta estimada de fluoruro.

Abstract Introduction: Various studies have shown that parents still do not have sufficient knowledge about the use of toothpastes that their children should consume. Many of them do not know from what age to start using toothpastes, the exact amount to be placed on the brush and especially how often they should be brushed. Aim: To associate the level of knowledge of parents about the use of toothpastes with the characteristics associated with the estimated intake of fluoride in children between 6 months to 8 years of Metropolitan Lima and Callao. Materials and methods: An observational, descriptive, and crosssectional study. The questionnaire was carried out on 264 parents residing in Metropolitan Lima and Callao during the months of July to September 2020. The absolute and relative frequencies were calculated. For the bivariate analysis, the Chi-square test of the level of statistical significance was used was 0.05. Results: It is observed that 52.94% of the fathers, as well as 60.41% of the mothers present a medium level of knowledge about the use of fluoride toothpastes. In addition, it was found that 56.25% of parents who stated that their children do not rinse with water after brushing have a high level of knowledge about the use of fluoride toothpastes. Conclusion: It was found that the 57.58% of parents had a median level of knowledge about the use of fluoride toothpastes. An association was found between the level of knowledge about the use of fluoride toothpastes and the characteristics associated with the estimated fluoride intake.

Color stability and microhardness alteration of irradiated dental enamel treated with a high fluoride concentration toothpaste.

OBJECTIVES: Radiotherapy (RT) is a kind of head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment, which is associated to the habit of smoking and can develop collateral effects in the oral cavity, such as the increase of caries prevalence. This study evaluated the color alteration, the microhardness, and the remineralizing potential of high fluoride concentration toothpastes on irradiated teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty bovine teeth were used (6 × 6 × 2 mm) and after color (EasyShade, VITA) and microhardness initial readings were separated into two groups: exposed to cigarette smoke and non-exposed. All samples were submitted to RT (30 Gy) and to cariogenic challenge. New color and microhardness readings were done. After RT (60 Gy), the samples were submitted to simulated toothbrushing (73,000 cycles = 5 years of brushing) with two different toothpastes: conventional (1450 ppm) and high fluoride concentration (5000 ppm). Final color and microhardness readings were done after brushing. Data were analyzed with 2-way ANOVA with repeated measures and Tukey's test (p < .05). RESULTS: There was no color difference after RT, nor after brushing (p > .05). However, after brushing, microhardness values increased for the samples treated with high fluoride concentration toothpaste (p < .05). CONCLUSION: Radiotherapy did not influence the teeth color, and the high fluoride concentration toothpaste presented remineralizing potential; therefore, it could be used on the caries prevention related to HNC radiation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Considering its remineralizing potential, toothpastes with high fluoride concentration could be a proper alternative for caries prevention in patients undergoing radiotherapy.

Systematization of oral hygiene in a pediatric patient: case report / Sistematización de la higiene oral en un paciente pediátrico: reporte de caso

Oral hygiene is an important step in the control of the biofilm, a factor related to diseases such as gingivitis and tooth decay. The systematization of oral hygiene in children is a set of measures that seeks to achieve sequential learning, thus guaranteeing a better elimination of the biofilm. Objetive: To show a sequence of systematized steps in oral hygiene in a pediatric patient with a definitely positive behavior. Case Report: Six year old female patient, without relevant medical history. On clinical intraoral examination presented biofilm accumulation and swollen gums. The presumptive diagnosis was marginal gingivitis associated with biofilm, the treatment included a preventive phase with motivation and education. The control of the disease evolution was carried out with a card of Systematization Technique of Oral Hygiene, the methodology included the recording of the educational sessions using videos and photographs. Results: the adequate use of the amount of toothpaste was achieved, the integrity was improved to 100%, the brushing time increased from 24 to 120 seconds and it was possible to add tongue brushing and not rinsing after brushing within the oral hygiene routine. Conclusion: The patient was able to clean all dental surfaces, using homogeneous times for each surface, following an orderly sequence in toothbrushing, as well as to acquire knowledge regarding the amount of toothpaste to use, tongue brushing and not rinsing after toothbrushing. The systematization of oral hygiene allowed us to achieve these achievements in six sessions.

La higiene oral es un paso importante para el control de la biopelícula, la cual es un factor relacionado con enfermedades como gingivitis y caries dental. La sistematización de la higiene oral en niños es un conjunto de medidas que buscan lograr un aprendizaje secuencial, garantizando así una mejor eliminación del biofilm. Objetivo: Mostrar una secuencia de pasos sistematizados en la higiene oral en un paciente pediátrico con comportamiento definitivamente positivo. Reporte de un Caso: Paciente femenino de 6 años, sin antecedentes médicos relevantes. Al examen clínico intraoral presentó acumulación de biofilm y encías inflamadas. El diagnóstico presuntivo fue gingivitis marginal asociada a biofilm, el tratamiento incluyó una fase preventiva con motivación y educación. El control de la evolución se realizó con una ficha sobre la Técnica de Sistematización de Higiene oral, la metodología incluye el registro de las sesiones educativas usando vídeos y fotografías. Resultados: se logró el uso adecuado de la cantidad de dentífrico, se mejoró la integridad al 100%, el tiempo de cepillado pasó de 24 a 120 segundos y se consiguió integrar el cepillado de la lengua y el no enjuague post cepillado dentro de su higiene oral. Conclusión: La paciente consiguió realizar la limpieza de todas las superficies dentales, tiempos homogéneos para cada superficie, una secuencia ordenada en su cepillado dental, así como adquirir conocimientos en la cantidad de dentífrico utilizado, el cepillado de la lengua y el no enjuagarse después del cepillado dental. La sistematización de la higiene oral permitió conseguir estos logros en 6 sesiones.

Influence of cigarette smoke combined with different toothpastes on enamel erosion.

This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the effect of different toothpastes on dental enamel subjected to an erosive cycle with and without exposure to cigarette smoke. Bovine enamel specimens were randomly allocated into 12 groups (n = 12). For the in vitro simulation of smoking, half the groups underwent an exposure cycle of 20 cigarettes per day for 5 days. Subsequently, all groups were subjected to a 5-day erosion cycle intercalating demineralization (1 min; 1% citric acid; pH = 3.5) and treatment with toothpaste slurries (2 min) of NaF, SnF2, F/Sn/Chitosan, F/CaSiO3/Na3PO4, and F/bioactive glass. The control group was immersed in distilled water. Surface microhardness (SMH) was measured initially, after exposure to smoke, and after the erosive cycle, and %SMH was calculated. At the end of the experimental cycle, surface roughness, profilometry, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were performed. SMH increased after exposure to cigarette smoke (p < 0.05). After the erosive cycle, there were no differences between the presence and absence of cigarette smoke exposure in SMH and roughness (p > 0.05). Besides increasing enamel SMH, cigarette smoke did not prevent enamel loss after the erosion cycle (p < 0.05). In profilometry, roughness and surface loss had the lowest values in the groups treated with SnF2 and F/Sn/Chitosan (p < 0.05). AFM showed lower mineral loss with F/CaSiO3/Na3PO4 and F/Sn/Chitosan. For all groups, except F/CaSiO3/Na3PO4, cigarette smoke resulted in higher enamel wear. F/Sn/Chitosan showed the best results against erosion.

The in vitro remineralizing effect of CPP-ACP and CPP-ACPF after 6 and 12 weeks on initial caries lesion

Abstract Objective: The aim of this in vitro study was to determine the effects of remineralization promoting agents containing casein phosphopeptide-stabilized amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), or CPP-ACP in combination with fluoride (CPP-ACPF) on artificial white spot lesions (WSLs) after 6 and 12 weeks. Methodology: White spot lesions were created on 123 sectioned premolars (246 specimens) with a demineralization solution during a 96 hours pH-cycling regime. Two experimental groups were created: a CPP-ACP group (Tooth Mousse™), and a CPP-ACPF group (Mi Paste Plus™). Additionally, two control groups were created, one using only a conventional toothpaste (1450 ppm fluoride) and another one without any working agents. All teeth were also daily brushed with the conventional toothpaste except the second control group. Tooth Mousse™ and Mi Paste Plus™ were applied for 180 seconds every day. The volume of demineralization was measured with transverse microradiography. Six lesion characteristics regarding the lesion depth and mineral content of WSLs were also determined. Results: The application of CPP-ACP and CPP-ACPF had a significant regenerative effect on the WSLs. Compared to Control group 1 and 2 the volume of demineralization after 6 weeks decreased significantly for CPP-ACP (respectively p<0.001 and p<0.001) and CPP-ACPF (respectively p=0.001 and p=0.003). The same trend was observed after 12 weeks. For the CPP-ACPF group, WSL dimensions decreased significantly between 6 and 12 weeks follow-up (p=0.012). The lesion depth reduced significantly after application of CPP-ACP and CPP-ACPF but increased significantly in the Control groups. Mineral content increased for CPP-ACP and CPP-ACPF after an application period of 12 weeks, but this was only significant for CPP-ACP. Conclusions: Long-term use of CPP-ACP and CPP-ACPF in combination with a conventional tooth paste shows beneficial effects in the recovery of in vitro subsurface caries lesions.

Effect of dental bleaching on pulp oxygen saturation in maxillary central incisors - a randomized clinical trial

Abstract Objective To assess pulp oxygen saturation levels (SaO2) in maxillary central incisors after dental bleaching. Materials and Methods 80 participants (160 teeth) were randomly allocated to four groups: G1 In-office bleaching with two applications of 35% hydrogen peroxide (HP) (20 minutes), followed by at-home bleaching with 10% carbamide peroxide (CP) (2 hours/day for 16 days); G2 - Same protocol as G1, plus desensitizing toothpaste; G3 - In-office bleaching with 35% HP and one application of placebo gel (20 minutes), followed by at-home bleaching with 10% CP (2 hours/day for 16 days); and G4 - Same protocol as G3, plus desensitizing toothpaste. Pulp SaO2 levels were measured before (T0) and immediately after (T1) in-office bleaching; on the 5th (T2), 8th (T3), 12th (T4), and 16th days of at-home bleaching (T5); and on the 7th (T6) and 30th (T7) days. Mean (SD) pulp SaO2 levels were compared within groups by generalized estimating equations (GEE) and Student's t-test (P<0.05). Results Mean pulp SaO2 at T0 was 84.29% in G1, 84.38% in G2, 84.79% in G3, and 85.83% in G4. At T1, these values decreased to 81.96%, 82.06%, 82.19%, and 81.15% in G1, G2, G3, and G4 respectively, with significant difference in G4 (P<0.05). During home bleaching, pulp SaO2 levels varied in all groups, with 86.55%, 86.60%, 85.71%, and 87.15% means at T7 for G1, G2, G3, and G4, respectively; G2 presented significant difference (P<0.05). Conclusions Pulp SaO2 level in maxillary central incisors was similar at baseline, reducing immediately after in-office bleaching, regardless of using desensitizing toothpaste and increasing at 30 days after dental bleaching.

Home-based chemically-induced whitening (bleaching) of teeth in adults.

BACKGROUND: With the increased demand for whiter teeth, home-based bleaching products, either dentist-prescribed or over-the-counter products have been exponentially increasing in the past few decades. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2006. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of home-based tooth whitening products with chemical bleaching action, dispensed by a dentist or over-the-counter. SEARCH METHODS: Cochrane Oral Health's Information Specialist searched the following databases: Cochrane Oral Health's Trials Register (to 12 June 2018), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2018, Issue 6) in the Cochrane Library (searched 12 June 2018), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 12 June 2018), and Embase Ovid (1980 to 12 June 2018). The US National Institutes of Health Ongoing Trials Register ClinicalTrials.gov (12 June 2018) and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (12 June 2018) were searched for ongoing trials. No restrictions were placed on the language or date of publication when searching the electronic databases. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included in our review randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which involved adults who were 18 years and above, and compared dentist-dispensed or over-the-counter tooth whitening (bleaching) products with placebo or other comparable products.Quasi-randomised trials, combination of in-office and home-based treatments, and home-based products having physical removal of stains were excluded. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently selected trials. Two pairs of review authors independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias. We estimated risk ratios (RRs) for dichotomous data, and mean differences (MDs) or standardised mean difference (SMD) for continuous data, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. MAIN RESULTS: We included 71 trials in the review with 26 studies (1398 participants) comparing a bleaching agent to placebo and 51 studies (2382 participants) comparing a bleaching agent to another bleaching agent. Two studies were at low overall risk of bias; two at high overall risk of bias; and the remaining 67 at unclear overall risk of bias.The bleaching agents (carbamide peroxide (CP) gel in tray, hydrogen peroxide (HP) gel in tray, HP strips, CP paint-on gel, HP paint-on gel, sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) chewing gum, sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) chewing gum, and HP mouthwash) at different concentrations with varying application times whitened teeth compared to placebo over a short time period (from 2 weeks to 6 months), however the certainty of the evidence is low to very low.In trials comparing one bleaching agent to another, concentrations, application method and application times, and duration of use varied widely. Most of the comparisons were reported in single trials with small sample sizes and event rates and certainty of the evidence was assessed as low to very low. Therefore the evidence currently available is insufficient to draw reliable conclusions regarding the superiority of home-based bleaching compositions or any particular method of application or concentration or application time or duration of use.Tooth sensitivity and oral irritation were the most common side effects which were more prevalent with higher concentrations of active agents though the effects were mild and transient. Tooth whitening did not have any effect on oral health-related quality of life. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: We found low to very low-certainty evidence over short time periods to support the effectiveness of home-based chemically-induced bleaching methods compared to placebo for all the outcomes tested.We were unable to draw any conclusions regarding the superiority of home-based bleaching compositions or any particular method of application or concentration or application time or duration of use, as the overall evidence generated was of very low certainty. Well-planned RCTs need to be conducted by standardising methods of application, concentrations, application times, and duration of treatment.

Effects of probiotics on salivary Streptecoccus mutans and Lactobacillus levels in orthodontic patients.

INTRODUCTION: In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of regular probiotic consumption on microbial colonization in saliva in orthodontic patients and to comparatively evaluate the difference between the systemic consumption of probiotic products and the local application. METHODS: This study included 3 groups with 15 orthodontic patients in each. The control group included patients who had no probiotic treatment, the subjects in the kefir group consumed 2 × 100 ml of kefir (Atatürk Orman Ciftligi, Ankara, Turkey) per day, and the subjects in the toothpaste group brushed their teeth with toothpaste with probiotic content (GD toothpaste; Dental Asia Manufacturing, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia) twice a day. Samples were collected at 3 times: beginning of the study, 3 weeks later, and 6 weeks later. The salivary flow rate, buffer capacity, and Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus levels in the saliva were evaluated. Chair-side kits were used to determine the S mutans and Lactobacillus levels. RESULTS: A statistically significant decrease was observed in the salivary S mutans and Lactobacillus levels in the kefir and toothpaste groups compared with the control group (P <0.05). A statistically significant increase was observed in the toothpaste group compared with the control and kefir groups in buffer capacity. Changes in the salivary flow rate were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The regular use of probiotics during fixed orthodontic treatment reduces the S mutans and Lactobacillus levels in the saliva.

Effects of a toothpaste containing 0.3% triclosan in the maintenance phase of peri-implantitis treatment: 2-Year randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a toothpaste containing 0.3% triclosan in volunteers that have been treated for peri-implantitis and were enrolled in a maintenance program. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Subjects presenting at least one implant with peri-implantitis were selected. They received anti-infective surgical therapy, and sixty days post-surgery (baseline) were randomized into two groups, brushing twice/day for 2 years (a) with a toothpaste containing 0.3% triclosan+2.0% PVM/MA copolymer (GantrezTM )+1,450 ppm fluoride (test) or (b) with a toothpaste containing 1,450 ppm fluoride (control). They received clinical and microbiological monitoring at baseline, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, and professional maintenance every 3 months. RESULTS: A total of 102 subjects were enrolled (test: 48; control: 54). The control group showed loss of clinical attachment (CA) around treated implants over the course of the study (p < 0.05), while the test group was stable for this parameter. The difference between groups (0.55 mm) for CA change between baseline and 24 months (primary outcome variable) was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Red complex pathogens were only reduced in the test group at 24 months. The implants with no history of peri-implantitis in the test group had a significant reduction in the percentage of sites with bleeding on probing and in mean probing depth, throughout the study (p < 0.05). This improvement was not observed in the control group. CONCLUSION: A toothpaste containing 0.3% triclosan was more effective than a toothpaste without triclosan in maintaining a healthy peri-implant environment around treated implants and implants with no history of peri-implantitis during a 2-year maintenance program (ClinicalTrials.govNCT03191721).

A randomised clinical in situ study to evaluate the effects of novel low abrasivity anti-sensitivity dentifrices on dentine wear.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the abrasive wear on human dentine in an in situ model associated with use of an experimental low abrasivity anti-sensitivity dentifrice containing 1% alumina and 5% sodium tripolyphosphate (STP) with an experimental ultra-low abrasivity non-alumina 5% STP dentifrice, a higher abrasivity daily-use whitening dentifrice, and water as controls. METHODS: This was a single-centre, single-blind, randomised, split-mouth, four-treatment, two-period, crossover in situ study in 29 healthy subjects. Subjects wore bilateral lower buccal appliances, each fitted with four dentine specimens. Study treatments were applied ex vivo (three times daily). Dentine loss was measured by non-contact profilometry after 5, 10 and 15days' treatment. RESULTS: All 29 subjects were included in the efficacy analysis. Significantly less dentine loss was associated with brushing with the low and ultra-low abrasivity dentifrices than with the higher abrasivity dentifrice at all timepoints (p<0.01). Brushing with ultra-low abrasivity dentifrice or water resulted in statistically significantly less dentine loss compared with brushing with the low abrasivity dentifrice at all timepoints (p<0.05). Dentine loss after brushing with ultra-low abrasivity dentifrice was not significantly different from brushing with water. CONCLUSIONS: The degree of dentine loss observed in this in situ model reflected the abrasivity of the study dentifrices. Brushing with low or ultra-low abrasivity STP-containing anti-sensitivity dentifrices resulted in significantly less dentine loss (equating to dentine wear) than with a higher abrasivity daily-use whitening dentifrice.

In vitro and in situ evaluation of the effects of high-fluoride and arginine-based toothpastes to control root caries / Avaliação in vitro e in situ do efeito de dentifrícios fluoretados de alta concentração de fluoreto e a base de arginina no controle da cárie radicular

The focus of our studies has been the root substrate dentin, once root caries prevalence has been reported as increasing in part due to people living longer and maintaining their natural teeth into old age. Furthermore, this condition is highly prevalent in patients undergoing head-and-neck radiotherapy (HNR). To better understand the effect of different toothpastes in sound and non-irradiated root dentin, this research was developed in 3 parts with specific objectives, involving both in nonirradiated and irradiated substrates. In study 1, high-F toothpaste (5,000 µg F/g) associated or not with f tri-calcium phosphate (f TCP) were compared in vitro with conventional one (1,450 µg F/g) to control bovine root caries development. The study 2 was conducted to evaluate if the in vitro performance would be similar in a closer clinical situation. An in situ design was performed and the effect of high-F toothpaste combined or not with f TCP comparing to 1,450 µg F/g combined or not with argininebased toothpastes in reducing the net demineralization of sound root dentin and on the remineralization in initial artificial caries lesions was verified. In study 3, the effects of radiation exposure on human root dentin composition, structure and mechanical properties were evaluated. In the first study, our findings highlight the importance of using high-F toothpastes to prevent root caries development. In the second one, the results showed great performance of high-F toothpastes and arginine-based toothpastes, in clinical situations. The results of study 3 showed that radiation exposure changed the composition and structure of human root dentin, which may detrimentally affect its mechanical properties. Overall, the studies suggest that at high-risk population, such as elderly people and patients undergoing HNR, it is important to develop protocols to minimize damages caused by carious lesions, inhibiting the net demineralization of root caries. The current results can clarify the effects of radiation on root dentin to help further studies in this area. We also could observe that conventional toothpaste is not as effective as high-F toothpastes to prevent this condition, in non-irradiated root dentin. This knowledge is of special interest to determine the quality of life of high-risk population to dental caries presenting available tools that can be of at-home use with beneficial effects on demineralization protection and reversion.(AU)

O foco de nossos estudos tem sido o substrato dentinário radicular, uma vez que há relatos do aumento da prevalência de cárie radicular, devido principalmente ao aumento da expectativa de vida da população e a manutenção dos dentes naturais nos idosos. Além disso, essa condição é altamente prevalente em pacientes submetidos à radioterapia de cabeça e pescoço (RCP). Para melhor entendimento do efeito de diferentes dentifrícios em dentina radicular não-irradiada e irradiada, essa pesquisa foi desenvolvida em 3 partes, com objetivos específicos. No estudo 1, dentifrícios de alta concentração de F (5000 µg F/g) associado ou não com tri cálcio fosfato (f TCP) foram comparados in vitro com dentifrícios convencionais (1450 µg F/g) no controle do desenvolvimento de cárie radicular bovina. O estudo 2 foi conduzido para avaliar se os resultados do in vitro seria o mesmo diante de uma situação mais próxima da clínica. Um desenho in situ foi realizado e o efeito de dentifrício de alta concentração de F combinado ou não com f TCP e comparado com dentifrícios convencionais 1450 µg F/g combinado ou não com dentifrícios a base de arginina na redução da desmineralização de dentina radicular hígida e na remineralização de lesões cariosas previamente desenvolvidas foi avaliado. No estudo 3, os efeitos da exposição da dentina humana à radiação na sua composição, estrutura e propriedades mecânicas foram avaliados. No primeiro estudo, os resultados destacam a importância do uso de dentifrícios de alta concentração de F para prevenir o desenvolvimento de cárie radicular. No segundo, os resultados mostraram boa performance clínica dos dentifrícios de alta concentração de F e a base de arginina. O estudo 3 mostrou que a exposição à radiação altera a composição e estrutura da dentina radicular humana. De modo geral, os estudos sugerem que em população de alto risco, como os idosos e pacientes submetidos à RCP, é importante desenvolver protocolos para minimizar danos causados pelas lesões de cárie, inibindo a desmineralização líquida da cárie radicular. Os presentes resultados podem clarificar os efeitos da radiação na dentina radicular e ajudar em estudos posteriores nessa área. Também é possível observar que dentifrícios convencionais não são tão efetivos como os de alta concentração para prevenir essa condição, em dentina radicular não irradiada. Tal conhecimento é de especial interesse para garantir a qualidade de vida da população de alto risco à cárie, apresentando ferramentas disponíveis que podem ser usadas em casa com efeito benéfico na proteção da desmineralização.(AU)

Remineralizing Potential of a Low Fluoride Toothpaste with Sodium Trimetaphosphate: An in situ Study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of a low-fluoride (F) toothpaste supplemented with sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP) on enamel remineralization in situ. DESIGN: Bovine enamel blocks were selected on the basis of their surface hardness (SH) after caries-like lesions had been induced, and randomly divided into 4 treatment groups, according to the toothpastes used: without F or TMP (placebo); 500 ppm F; 500 ppm F plus 1% TMP; and 1,100 ppm F. The study design was blinded and crossover and performed in 4 phases of 3 days each. Eleven subjects used palatal appliances containing 4 bovine enamel blocks which were treated 3 times per day during 1 min each time, with natural slurries of saliva and toothpaste formed in the oral cavity during toothbrushing. After each phase, the percentages of surface (%SHR) and subsurface hardness recovery (%ΔKHNR) were calculated. F, calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (Pi) contents in enamel were also determined. Data were analyzed by 1-way, repeated-measures ANOVA, followed by the Student-Newman-Keuls test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Toothpaste with 500 ppm F + TMP and 1,100 ppm F showed similar %SHR and %ΔKHNR as well as enamel F, Ca, and Pi concentrations. CONCLUSION: The addition of TMP to a low-fluoride toothpaste promoted a similar remineralizing capacity to that of a standard (1,100 ppm F) toothpaste in situ.

Zinc: A precious trace element for oral health care?

This review will discuss the importance of Zinc in the maintenance of oral health. Zinc (Zn) is a trace element of valuable importance. In the oral cavity, it is naturally present at various sites such as dental plaque, dental hard tissues and saliva. It is proven to be effective against common prevalent oral health problems such as dental caries, gingivitis, periodontitis and malodour. It is being used in various oral health care products to control the formation of dental plaque and inhibiting the formation of dental calculus. It has the potential to sustain and maintain its elevated concentrations for a longer time particularly in the dental plaque and saliva on delivery from the mouth rinses and toothpastes. It has been reported that low concentrations of zinc have the capability to reduce dissolution and promote remineralization under caries simulating conditions. Most importantly low Zn2+ levels in the serum are useful as a tumour marker. Thus taking a note of its potentials, it can be concluded that zinc is a precious element for the maintenance of oral health.

Non-surgical management of tooth hypersensitivity.

Tooth sensitivity is a common complaint of patients in dental practices. Studies have demonstrated dentinal hypersensitivity to affect 10-30% of the population. There are various potential causes of tooth sensitivity and a variety of available treatment options. This narrative review will discuss the possible aetiology of this condition, as well as the treatment modalities available. A tailor-made treatment plan that starts with the most non-invasive treatment options and escalates only when those options have proven insufficient in alleviating symptoms should be provided for each patient. Only after all non- and less-invasive methods have failed to reduce the symptoms should more invasive treatment options, such as root-coverage, be considered.

Oral hygiene grade and quality of life in children with chemotherapy-related oral mucositis: a randomized study on the impact of a fluoride toothpaste with salivary enzymes, essential oils, proteins and colostrum extract versus a fluoride toothpaste without menthol.

AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the use of a fluoride toothpaste (Bioxtra® , Biopharm, Milan, Italy) with salivary enzymes, essential oils, proteins and colostrum extract versus a fluoride toothpaste without menthol on the oral hygiene grade and on the quality of life (QoL) of children with oral mucositis (OM) grade 1 or 2 receiving chemotherapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL). METHODS: Patients between 6 and 14 years with OM were randomly assigned to two groups, group A (Bioxtra® toothpaste) and group B (fluoride toothpaste without menthol). The patients were instructed to brush their teeth at least twice a day using a soft toothbrush with a small head. Oral hygiene grade was assessed using the simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-s); quality of life was assessed using the short form of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) questionnaires. The patients were evaluated on day 1(diagnosis of OM-T0) and on day 8 (T1). Statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: A total of 64 patients were enrolled. A significant difference (P < 0.001) between the mean of the OHI-s in group A (0.9 ± 1.2) and in group B (1.5 ± 1.3) was found; the overall OHIP-14 scores were not associated with the use of one or the other toothpaste (P = 0.33). CONCLUSIONS: Although the use of Bioxtra® toothpaste does not affect the QoL of children undergoing chemotherapy, it may be recommended as clinically effective in improving the oral hygiene grade.