Can brushing with regular and whitening dentifrices influence changes in color and micromorphologic surfaces of ceramic brackets subjected to coffee staining?

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of brushing with regular or whitening dentifrices on the change in color and micromorphologic surface of ceramic orthodontic brackets subjected to coffee staining. Fifty ceramic brackets were subjected to cycles of coffee staining followed by brushing according to the following groups (n = 10): C, control (no brushing); DW, brushing with distilled water; CT, brushing with Colgate Total 12 Clean Mint (regular toothpaste); COW, brushing with Colgate Optic White (containing 1% hydrogen peroxide); and CUWA, brushing with Close-Up White Attraction (containing blue covarine). The color of the brackets was assessed using the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) L*a*b* system at 5 different timepoints: prior to staining (baseline) and after 1, 7, 14, and 21 days of staining and brushing cycles. The surface micromorphology of the brackets was assessed at the baseline timepoint and after 21 days. Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn, Friedman, and Nemenyi tests were applied (α = 0.05) for the statistical analysis. The C group demonstrated a significant reduction in L* and a significant increase in a* and b* values over time. For the DW group, the L* value was reduced but was higher than in the C group, and there were also significant increases in a* and b* from baseline values. A significant increase in the a* and b* values was observed in all groups (P < 0.05). Total color change (∆E*) increased over the period of evaluation for all whitening groups, although only the CT group presented significantly lower ∆E* than the other dentifrices. At the end of the test period, only the COW group exhibited a surface with higher porosity. None of the dentifrices prevented the brackets from staining, but they did reduce the magnitude of color change caused by coffee. The most significant difference was found in the CT group. Micromorphologic surface changes were observed when COW was employed.

Ação inibitória de dentifrícios sobre Streptococcus mutans e Candida albicans: estudo in vitro / Inhibitory effect of dentifrices on Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans: in vitro study

Introdução: este estudo avaliou a ação antimicrobiana de sete dentifrícios nacionais com ação antiplaca ou antimicrobiana, conforme os fabricantes, sobre os patógenos orais Streptococcus mutans e Candida albicans. Métodos: a avaliação dos dentifrícios foi realizada pelo teste de difusão em ágar. Placas de Petri com meios de cultura ágar cérebro coração e ágar Sabourad foram semeadas com suspensão microbiana padronizada de S. mutans e C. albicans. Poços foram confeccionados no ágar semeado e preenchidos com as soluções dos dentifrícios diluídas em 1:1, 1:2, 1:4 e 1:8, além dos controles positivo (solução de clorexidina 2%) e negativo (dentifrício sem princípios ativos). Após incubação por 48h/37°C, os halos de inibição do crescimento microbiano foram medidos com paquímetro e régua milimetrada, e os resultados finais dos halos obtidos em milímetros. Resultados e conclusão: verificou-se que todos os dentifrícios, na diluição de 1:1, foram efetivos sobre C. albicans e S. mutans, exceto o composto de bicarbonato de sódio e extratos vegetais, o qual não inibiu S. mutans. Na diluição de 1:2, somente o dentifrício contendo triclosan inibiu C. albicans, enquanto todos mostraram algum potencial de inibição ao S. mutans. Nas demais diluições, não foram observados halos de inibição de ambos os microrganismos. A C. albicans demonstrou ser mais resistente à ação inibitória dos antimicrobianos dos dentifrícios testados neste estudo. S. mutans demonstrou ser mais sensível à ação dos dentifrícios, no entanto, a diluição durante a escovação dentária reduz a ação inibitória esperada, indicando a importância da remoção mecânica do biofilme.(AU)

Introduction: this study analyzed the antimicrobial activity in seven national dentifrices with antiplaque or antimicrobial substances in their composition, according the manufacturer, on the oral pathogens Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans. Methods: the dentifrices antimicrobial effect evaluation was carried out by agar diffusion test. S. mutans and C. albicans. Padronized microbial suspension was cultured on Petri dishes containing Brain Hearth Agar and Sabourad Agar, respectively. Wells were prepared in the cultured agar and filled with 1:1, 1:2, 1:4 and 1:8 dilutions of dentifrice solutions, and besides positive (2% chlorhexidine solutions) and negative controls (dentifrices without active ingredients). After 48h/37°C incubation, the microbial growing inhibition zones were measured with a paquimeter and a millimeter rule, being the final zone results obtained in millimeters. Results and conclusion: on 1:1 dilution, all dentifrices were effective on C. albicans and S. mutans, except one with vegetal extract and sodium bicarbonate composition, which did not inhibit S. mutans. In 1:2 dilution, only tricolsan-containing dentifrice inhibited C. albicans, while all dentifrices presented some inhibition potential on S. mutans. There were no inhibition zones for both microorganims in other dilutions. We concluded that C. albicans showed to be more resistant to antimicrobial agents tested in the dentifrices, in this study. S. mutans showed to be more sensitive to tested dentifrices, however, the product dilution during toothbrushing reduces the expected inhibitory action, strengthening the importance of the mechanical removal of dental biofilm.(AU)

Effect of a dentifrice containing different particle sizes of hydroxyapatite on dentin tubule occlusion and aqueous Cr (VI) sorption.

BACKGROUND: Dentin hypersensitivity is a common negative oral condition that can be treated with dentifrice containing hydroxyapatite (HA). The study evaluated the effect of nano-HA dentifrice on plugging the dentinal tubules for an anti-sensitivity reaction compared to a dentifrice containing common-sized particles. Also, the adsorption capacity of different particle sizes of HA mixed in a dentifrice and which is the optimal particle size was considered. METHODS: Fourty premolar dentine discs and fourty molar dentine discs were randomly divided into 4 groups: distilled water group, ordinary dentifrice group and 80, 300 nm HA dentifrice group. Each dentin disc was brushed with a dentifrice twice daily at 7600 rpm under 100 g force for 2 mins for 7 consecutive days and divided into two parts, half of the dentin disc was detected by the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), the other half was brushed with distilled water and observed by SEM. One milliliter dentifrice solution (80 nm HA dentifrice, 300 nm HA dentifrice, ordinary dentifrice) was added to 50 ml potassium dichromate solution for 1, 14, and 28 d. The residual Chromium (Cr6+) concentration in the supernatant was measured by the diphenylcarbon phthalocyanine hydrazine method. The elemental constitution in the precipitate was detected by EDS. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to analyze surface mineralization and different plugging rates of dentinal tubules. The absorption capacity of dentifrices were also evaluated by the Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS: The plugging rate in the HA dentifrice group was higher than that in the ordinary dentifrice group, and the 80 nm HA dentifrice group showed the best result. The atomic percentages of Ca and P of 80 nm dentifrice group on the surface of dentinal tubules were the highest. The 80 nm HA dentifrice group showed the best adsorption and stable effect of Cr6+, followed by the 300 nm HA dentifrice group. The 300 nm HA dentifrice and the ordinary dentifrice showed desorption phenomenon. CONCLUSIONS: The dentifrice containing HA, especially the 80 nm HA dentifrice, exerts good dentinal tubule occlusion and surface mineralization effect. This dentifrice was also a good adsorbent of Cr6+.

Eficácia de um dentifrício sem flúor no controle de Streptococcus mutans in vitro / Effectiveness of a non-fluoridated dentifrice in control of Streptococcus mutans in vitro

Objetivo: avaliar a eficácia de um dentifrício, que contém em sua composição extratos vegetais e xilitol para inibição de Streptococcus mutans (UA159). Materiais e método: para verificação da atividade antimicrobiana, foram realizados ensaios in vitro de difusão de ágar, baseados na metodologia da norma M2A8 Anvisa. O estudo foi feito utilizando inóculo de 108 UFC/mL da cepa de S. mutans. O princípio básico foi a difusão de uma solução de dentifrício na superfície do ágar a partir de um disco impregnado. O ensaio foi realizado utilizando como controle negativo água deionizada estéril e como controle positivo clorexidina 0,12%, e foram comparados aos dentifrícios Orgânico Natural® e Colgate Total 12®. O resultado foi analisado a partir da medição dos halos de inibição (mm). Resultados: a clorexidina 0,12% teve maior halo de inibição (21,08 ± 1,02), seguida do dentifrício Orgânico Natural® (11,33 ± 4,35) e do dentifrício Colgate Total 12 (3,93 ± 4,67) P<0,05. Conclusão: a inibição da cepa de S. mutans evidenciada neste ensaio in vitro demonstra o potencial antimicrobiano do dentifrício Orgânico Natural®, mesmo como um possível auxiliar no controle do biofilme dental cariogênico. (AU)

Objective: the goal was to evaluate the effectiveness of a dentifrice that has a chemical composition of plant extracts and xylitol to inhibit the Streptococcus mutans (UA159). Materials and methods: based on the methodology of the M2A8 Anvisa standard, in vitro agar diffusion assays were performed to verify antimicrobial activity. The study was carried out using inoculum of 108 CFU / mL of S. mutans strain. The principle was the diffusion of a dentifrice solution on the agar surface, from a disc impregnated therewith. The assay was performed using as a negative control the sterile deionized water, 0.12% chlorhexidine as a positive control compared to Orgânico Natural® and Colgate Total 12® toothpastes. The result was analyzed from the inhibition halos measurement (mm). Results: the chlorhexidine 0.12% had the biggest inhibition halo (21,08 ± 1,02) followed by the Orgânico Natural® dentifrice (11,33 ± 4,35) and the Colgate Total 12® dentifrice (3,93 ± 4,67) P<0,05. Conclusion: the inhibition of the S. mutans strain realized in these in vitro assay by the Orgânico Natural® dentifrice demonstrate the antimicrobial potential of the same as a possible aid in the control of the cariogenic dental biofilm. (AU)

Role of chemical and herbal dentifrices against indigenous oral Pathogens.

The oral cavity has its own significant micro-flora but under unhygienic conditions can cause infections or diseases like gingivitis, caries, plaque and gum bleeding. Out of more than 700 oral microbial species, some opportunistic pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp. and Candida albicans are more prevalent. In this study, the antimicrobial activities of various toothpastes (dilutions ranging from 1:1-1:128) against above mentioned pathogens were assessed. The pathogens were isolated from clinical samples using various differential and selective media and identified through microscopic examination, cultural characteristics and biochemical tests using both conventional and API kit system (Biomerieux, France). Antimicrobial activities of selected dentifrice formulations against identified microbes were determined using agar well diffusion and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration assays. Statistical analysis of the data on different variables has been performed by Analysis of Variance and Mean ±SD using SPSS software. From the collected samples Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus intermedius and Candida albicans were isolated and identified. All the selected toothpastes showed significant (p<0.01) antimicrobial activity against the bacterial and fungal isolates. Variable results (inhibitory zone diameters ranging from 35.10±8.00 to 2.40±5.37) were found when mean of different dilutions were compared. Conventional dentifrices exhibited more inhibition as compared to herbal products.

Effectiveness of non-fluoride and fluoride dentifrices for denture hygiene.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of commonly used herbal/non-fluoride with fluoride dentifrices in order to eliminate pathogenic oral microorganisms from denture base material. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Heat-polymerized acrylic resin specimens (n = 288) were divided into three groups and each group inoculated with three various microorganisms (n = 96 for each) Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). Contaminated specimens were randomly assigned to the application of six herbal/non-fluoride and three fluoride dentifrices. These specimens were divided into two groups: negative and positive control (n = 3 for each). All acrylic specimens were incubated at 37 °C for 24 h for samples inoculated with bacterial strains and 37 °C for 48 h for samples inoculated with yeast strains. After the incubation period, all brain-heart infusion broths that contained disinfectant acrylic specimens were cultured on 5% sheep blood agar for bacterial counts and Sabouraud dextrose agar for yeast counts. The number of colony-forming units per millilitre (CFU/mL) were calculated. The results were analysed by Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests (p = .05). RESULTS: Both herbal/non-fluoride and fluoride dentifrices were effective against Candida albicans. However, fluoride dentifrices were comparatively better than the herbal/non-fluoride dentifrices against Staphylococcus aureus and P. aeruginosa. CONCLUSIONS: Herbal dentifrices could be used, especially among the elderly who lack a degree of manual dexterity during the rinsing of dentifrice chemicals from their dentures.

Fluoride and calcium concentrations in the biofilm fluid after use of fluoridated dentifrices supplemented with polyphosphate salts.

OBJECTIVES: The present study evaluated fluoride (F) and calcium (Ca) concentrations in the biofilm fluid formed in situ under cariogenic challenge after using F dentifrices supplemented or not with sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP) or calcium glycerophosphate (CaGP). METHODS: Volunteers (n = 12) were randomly divided into 5 groups according to the toothpastes used: placebo (without F, CaGP or TMP), 1100 ppm F (1100F) and low-fluoride dentifrice (LFD, 550 ppm F) with no supplementation (550F) or supplemented with 1 % TMP (550F-TMP) or 0.25 % CaGP (550F-CaGP). In each phase, volunteers wore palatal appliances containing 4 bovine enamel blocks. Cariogenic challenge was performed with 30 % sucrose solution, 6 times/day. On the morning of the eigth day, biofilm samples were collected 12 h and 1 h after brushing and cariogenic challenge. F and Ca analyses in the biofilm fluid were performed with the inverted electrode after buffering with TISAB III and using the Arsenazo III method, respectively. Data were submitted to two-way ANOVA (repeated measures) and Student-Newman-Keuls test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: A dose-response relationship was verified between F concentrations in the dentifrices and in the biofilm fluid. Significant differences were observed among placebo, 550F, and 1100F only 1 h after brushing, without statistical differences among 550F, 550F-TMP, and 550F-CaGP. No defined trend was observed among the groups regarding Ca concentrations, with the highest values seen for placebo and 550F-CaGP. CONCLUSION: The anticaries effect of LFDs supplemented with CaGP or TMP cannot be related to an increased availability of F and Ca in the biofilm fluid. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The better performance of LFDs containing CaGP or TMP shown in previous studies should be attributed to their ability to interact with tooth enamel and with the biofilm, rather to their effect on the biofilm fluid.

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.

Effect of adjunctive use of green tea dentifrice in periodontitis patients - A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVES: Green tea is known to possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant activities. This study evaluated the effect of a locally prepared green tea dentifrice on specific parameters assessing gingival inflammation and severity of periodontal disease, when used as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the management of chronic periodontitis by comparing with a fluoride-triclosan-containing control dentifrice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty patients, with mild to moderate chronic periodontitis, were randomly allocated into two treatment groups, 'test' and 'control' after initial SRP. The test group was given green tea dentifrice with instructions on method of brushing, while the control group received a commercially available fluoride and triclosan containing dentifrice. Clinical parameters of Gingival Index (GI), Plaque Index (PI), percentage of sites with bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) along with biochemical parameters of total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were recorded at baseline line and 4 weeks post-SRP. RESULTS: Intragroup analysis at 4 weeks showed statistically significant improvements of GI, PI, BOP, PD, CAL and TAOC in both groups. GST activity however, was increased only in the test group. At the end of the study period, the test group showed statistically significant improvements in GI, BOP, CAL, TAOC and GST levels compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: On comparison with fluoride-triclosan dentifrice, green tea showed greater reduction of gingival inflammation and improved periodontal parameters. Green tea dentifrice may serve as a beneficial adjunct to non-surgical periodontal therapy.

In vitro method for prediction of plaque reduction by dentifrice.

An in vitro Particle Based Biofilm (PBB) model was developed to enable high throughput screening tests to predict clinical plaque reduction. Multi-species oral biofilms were cultured from pooled stimulated human saliva on continuously-colliding hydroxyapatite particles. After three days PBBs were saline washed prior to use in screening tests. Testing involved dosing PBBs for 1min followed by neutralization of test materials and rinsing. PBBs were then assayed for intact biofilm activity measured as ATP. The ranking of commercial dentifrices from most to least reduction of intact biofilm activity was Crest ProHealth Clinical Gum Protection, Crest ProHealth, Colgate Total and Crest Cavity Protection. We demonstrated five advantages of the PBB model: 1) the ATP metric had a linear response over ≥1000-fold dynamic range, 2) potential interference with the ATP assay by treatments was easily eliminated by rinsing PBBs with saline, 3) discriminating power was statistically excellent between all treatment comparisons with the negative controls, 4) screening test results were reproducible across four tests, and 5) the screening test produced the same rank order for dentifrices as clinical studies that measured plaque reduction. In addition, 454 pyrosequencing of the PBBs indicated an oral microbial consortium was present. The most prevalent genera were Neisseria, Rothia, Streptococcus, Porphyromonas, Prevotella, Actinomyces, Fusobacterium, Veillonella and Haemophilus. We conclude these in vitro methods offer an efficient, effective and relevant screening tool for reduction of intact biofilm activity by dentifrices. Moreover, dentifrice rankings by the in vitro test method are expected to predict clinical results for plaque reduction.

Effects of Bleaching Agents Combined with Regular and Whitening Toothpastes on Surface Roughness and Mineral Content of Enamel.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate surface roughness and changes in the composition of enamel submitted to different bleaching protocols and toothbrushing with regular and whitening toothpastes. BACKGROUND DATA: Bleaching treatment could promote morphological and chemical changes in enamel surface. METHODS: Enamel blocks were randomized into nine groups (n=10) according to the bleaching treatment (no bleaching, control group; 6% hydrogen peroxide, HP; or 10% carbamide peroxide, CP) and toothpaste used (placebo, PL; regular, R; or whitening dentifrice, W). Bleaching was performed according to manufacturers' instructions and all groups were submitted to 30,000 cycles of simulated toothbrushing with toothpaste (PL, R, or W). Mineral content evaluation and enamel roughness were evaluated initially (T1), after bleaching (T2), and after toothbrushing (T3), using an energy-dispersive micro X-ray fluorescence spectrometer and profilometry, respectively. Data were statistically analyzed with two way ANOVA, Tukey, and Dunnett tests (5%). RESULTS: Enamel surface roughness was influenced by bleaching and toothbrushing. Surface roughness increased for the groups that brushed with the placebo dentifrice (CP+PL, HP+PL, C+PL) and for the control group that brushed with whitening dentifrice (C+W). Enamel Ca/P ratio decreased after bleaching, but toothbrushing, regardless of the dentifrice used, did not reduce the enamel mineral content. CONCLUSIONS: The bleaching treatment resulted in a decrease of enamel mineral content, but the studied dentifrices did not contribute to surface mineral loss.

The effects of a dentifrice containing propolis on Mutans Streptococci: a clinico-microbiological study.

BACKGROUND: Propolis is a natural resinous mixture produced by honeybees, which exhibits anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, cytostatic and cariostatic properties. The aim of the study was to evaluate the anti-bacterial efficacy of a propolis based dentifrice on Mutans Streptococci colonizing the oral cavity of young patients using Dentocult® SM strip mutans test. METHODS: Screening of 367 male subjects within the age group of 7-12 years was carried out. A total of 30 children were included in the study. They were instructed to use a Propolis dentifrice (Probee,™ Quasi-Medical Products, Seoul Propolis) daily for three minutes over a period of four weeks. Plaque and salivary samples were collected at baseline, 1(st) week, 3(rd) week and 4(th) week and were analyzed for Mutans Streptococci count using Dentocult® SM strip Mutans kit (Orion Diagnostica Oy, Finland). Student paired t-test and Friedman test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: It was unveiled that mean Mutans streptococci count at 1(st) week and 4(th) week, showed significant reduction (p≤0.0001), compared to baseline scores. Using Friedman's test, statistically significant difference was found between baseline and 1(st) week, 3(rd) week and 4(th) week follow up (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Propolis dentifrice reduces in-vivo microbial load in microenvironments especially against Mutans streptococci in the oral cavity of young patients. Thus, it's potential to be inculcated and used as an alternative measure to prevent dental caries can be considered and further investigation involving greater number of participants is recommended.

Bacteriological effects of dentifrices with and without active ingredients of natural origin.

Compounds of natural origin are increasingly used as adjuncts to oral hygiene. We have adopted four distinct approaches to assess the antibacterial activity of dentifrices containing natural active ingredients against oral bacteria in several test systems. Corsodyl Daily (CD), Kingfisher Mint (KM), and Parodontax fluoride (PF) were compared to a dentifrice containing fluoride (Colgate Cavity Protection [CCP]) and one containing triclosan (Colgate Total [CT]). The growth inhibitory and bactericidal potency of the formulations were determined for 10 isolated oral bacteria. Effects of single exposures of simulated supragingival plaques were then determined by epifluorescence and confocal microscopy, while the effects of repeated exposures were quantified by viable counting. Additionally, dense plaques, maintained in continuous culture, were repeatedly dosed, and the outcome was assessed by viable counting and eubacterial DNA profiling. The test dentifrices exhibited variable specificity and potency against oral bacteria in axenic culture. Of the herbal formulations, KM caused the largest viability reductions in simulated supragingival plaques, with CT causing the greatest reductions overall. Following single exposures, CD caused moderate reductions, while PF had no effect. After multiple dosing, all formulations significantly reduced numbers of total, facultative, and Gram-negative anaerobes, but only KM and CT caused greater reductions than the fluoride control. KM also reduced counts of streptococci (rank order of effectiveness: CT > KM > CCP > PF > CD). Marked changes in eubacterial DNA profiles were not detected for any herbal formulation in dense plaques, although KM markedly reduced viable counts of streptococci, in agreement with supragingival data. While both nonherbal comparators displayed antibacterial activity, the triclosan-containing formulation caused greater viability reductions than the herbal and nonherbal formulations.

Anti-ageing effects of dentifrices containing anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial agents (Tomarina®) on gingival collagen degradation in rats.

OBJECTIVE: Previous studies have demonstrated the relationship between ageing and oxidative stress. In this study, we examined the effects of topical application of a dentifrice containing anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial agents (Tomarina®) to the gingival surface on gingival collagen degradation in rats. DESIGN: Fischer 344 male rats (4 or 8 months old) were divided into two groups: experimental group and control group. Tomarina® (the experimental group) or control dentifrice (the control group) was applied 5 days per week for 2 months. RESULTS: In the control group, gingival collagen density decreased with ageing. In the experimental group, the collagen density did not change with ageing, and was greater than that in the control group at 10 months of age (p < 0.0083). In addition, the control group showed an increase in serum oxidative stress with ageing. The experimental group also showed increased serum oxidative stress, but the value was lower than the control group at 10 months of age (p < 0.0083). Furthermore, low expressions of protein oxidative damage in the periodontal tissue were observed in the experimental group, compared to the control group at 6 months and 10 months. CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that Tomarina® might suppress the effects of ageing on gingival collagen degradation, by decreasing oxidative stress in the rat model.

Effect of low fluoride acidic dentifrices on dental remineralization.

This study evaluated the capacity of fluoride acidic dentifrices (pH 4.5) to promote enamel remineralization using a pH cycling model, comparing them with a standard dentifrice (1,100 µgF/g). Enamel blocks had their surface polished and surface hardness determined (SH). Next, they were submitted to subsurface enamel demineralization and to post-demineralization surface hardness analysis. The blocks were divided into 6 experimental groups (n=10): placebo (without F, pH 4.5, negative control), 275, 412, 550, 1,100 µgF/g and a standard dentifrice (positive control). The blocks were submitted to pH cycling for 6 days and treatment with dentifrice slurries twice a day. After pH cycling, surface and cross-sectional hardness were assessed to obtain the percentage of surface hardness recovery (%SHR) and the integrated loss of subsurface hardness (ΔKHN). The results showed that %SHR was similar among acidic dentifrices with 412, 550, 1,100 µgF/g and to the positive control (Tukey's test; p>0.05). For ΔKHN, the acidic dentifrice with 550 µg F/g showed a better performance when compared with the positive control. It can be concluded that acidic dentifrice 550 µgF/g had similar remineralization capacity to that of positive control.

Influence of Er,Cr:YSGG laser on CaF2 -like products formation because of professional acidulated fluoride or to domestic dentifrice application.

This study evaluated the synergy of professional acidulated fluoride gel (APF) or fluoridated dentifrice application combined with Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation on the formation of CaF2 -like products (CaF2 ), in vitro. Thus, 272 bovine enamel slabs were randomly distributed among eight groups: G1: untreated enamel; G2: treated with fluoridated dentifrice (NaF, 1,100 µgF/g); G3: treated with acidulated phosphate fluoride gel (APF, 1.23% F(-) ); G4: irradiated with Er,Cr:YSGG laser at 8.5 J/cm(2) ; G5 and G6: combination of pre-irradiation with Er,Cr:YSGG followed by dentifrice or APF application, respectively; G7: combination of dentifrice application followed by Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation; G8: combination of APF application followed by Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation. After treatments, samples were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, and the content of CaF2 was determined by an ion specific electrode. Both APF and dentifrice application promoted the formation of CaF2 on enamel, whereas Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation promoted an increase of roughness of the enamel, increasing the surface area. Laser irradiation before fluoridated products increased the content of CaF2 formed when compared to groups that APF or dentifrice were applied isolated. However, the content of CaF2 formed when irradiation was performed after APF or dentifrice was not statically significant when compared to the control groups. In conclusion, Er,Cr:YSGG laser increases the formation of CaF2 on enamel when the irradiation is performed before the application of APF or dentifrice. The association of laser with APF is most promissory for caries prevention because of the higher concentration of CaF2 formation and also the chemical changes promoted by laser irradiation demonstrated in literature.

Enamel protection from acid challenge--benefits of marketed fluoride dentifrices.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the ability of various marketed dentifrices containing stabilized stannous fluoride (SnF2), sodium fluoride (NaF), or sodium monofluorophosphate (SMFP) to protect enamel against the earliest stages of erosive dietary acid damage using an in vitro enamel protection model. METHODS: Acid-challenged, extracted human teeth were treated with a 1:3 dilution of dentifrice, rinsed, and then challenged in a controlled series of tests using four dietary acids considered potentially erosive to teeth. Each acid was collected and analyzed to determine the level of mineral (phosphorous) removed from the teeth during the challenge. Post-treatment results were compared to baseline values for each acid. Results for the four acids were averaged and reported as an average percent protection value for each of the dentifrices tested, with higher values representing greater acid protection. The study included six dentifrices formulated with (A) sodium fluoride (NaF), (B) stabilized stannous fluoride (SnF2), (C,D) NaF plus 5% potassium nitrate (KNO3), (E) sodium monofluorophosphate (SMFP), or (F) SMFP plus 8% arginine bicarbonate. RESULTS: The stabilized SnF2 dentifrice demonstrated an average protection score of 39.3%, while products formulated with NaF resulted in protection scores between 11 and 13%. The SMFP dentifrice was rated at -3.5%, and the SMFP + arginine bicarbonate dentifrice resulted in a net average score of -5.0%. Results of this test were statistically significant (p < 0.05, ANOVA: B > A = C = D > E = F), in favor of the stabilized SnF2 dentifrice. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest the stabilized SnF2 dentifrice has the potential to provide significantly better overall acid protection versus any of the other dentifrices included in the study.

Effect of low fluoride acidic dentifrices on dental remineralization

This study evaluated the capacity of fluoride acidic dentifrices (pH 4.5) to promote enamel remineralization using a pH cycling model, comparing them with a standard dentifrice (1,100 µgF/g). Enamel blocks had their surface polished and surface hardness determined (SH). Next, they were submitted to subsurface enamel demineralization and to post-demineralization surface hardness analysis. The blocks were divided into 6 experimental groups (n=10): placebo (without F, pH 4.5, negative control), 275, 412, 550, 1,100 µgF/g and a standard dentifrice (positive control). The blocks were submitted to pH cycling for 6 days and treatment with dentifrice slurries twice a day. After pH cycling, surface and cross-sectional hardness were assessed to obtain the percentage of surface hardness recovery (%SHR) and the integrated loss of subsurface hardness (ΔKHN). The results showed that %SHR was similar among acidic dentifrices with 412, 550, 1,100 µgF/g and to the positive control (Tukey's test; p>0.05). For ΔKHN, the acidic dentifrice with 550 µg F/g showed a better performance when compared with the positive control. It can be concluded that acidic dentifrice 550 µgF/g had similar remineralization capacity to that of positive control.

O presente estudo objetivou avaliar a capacidade de dentifrícios fluoretados acidulados (pH 4,5) em promover a remineralização do esmalte utilizando um modelo de ciclagem de pH e compará-lo a um dentifrício padrão (1.100 µgF/g). Blocos de esmalte tiveram suas superfícies polidas e a dureza de superfície determinada (SH). Em seguida, foram submetidos à desmineralização subsuperficial e a dureza de superfície pós-desmineralização foi determinada. Os blocos foram divididos em seis grupos experimentais (n=10): placebo (controle negativo), 275, 412, 550, 1.100 µgF/g e um dentifrício padrão (controle positivo). Os blocos foram submetidos à ciclagem de pH durante seis dias e tratamentos com dentifrício diluído duas vezes por dia. Após a ciclagem de pH, a dureza de superfície e em secção transversal foram avaliadas para obtenção da porcentagem de recuperação de dureza de superfície (%SHR) e área integrada da perda de dureza de subsuperfície (ΔKHN). Os resultados mostraram que %SHR foi semelhante entre os dentifrícios ácidos 412, 550, 1.100 µgF/g e controle positivo (teste de Tukey; p>0,05). Para ΔKHN, o dentifrício acidulado com 550 µgF/g mostrou uma performance melhor quando comparado ao controle positivo. Conclui-se que os dentifrícios acidulados 550 µgF/g apresentaram capacidade de remineralização semelhante ao controle positivo.

Enamel properties after tooth bleaching with hydrogen/carbamide peroxides in association with a CPP-ACP paste.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the impact of bleaching teeth using blends of a CPP-ACP paste (MI Paste; MI) and carbamide/hydrogen peroxides in different proportions on surface properties of bleached enamel. METHODS: Ninety bovine incisors were bleached with 7.5% hydrogen peroxide (HP), 16% carbamide peroxide (CP), MI and blends of HP or CP:MI at three proportions (1:1, 2:1, 1:2). Hardness and roughness were measured at baseline and after bleaching. Enamel morphology was evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA for repeated measurements and Tukey's test. RESULTS: Most of the samples bleached with MI in combination with peroxides presented increased hardness and roughness which were associated to mineral deposition, as observed by SEM images. Blends with higher fractions of MI did not offer superior benefits. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a CPP-ACP paste mixed to carbamide/hydrogen peroxides can decrease adverse side-effects from tooth bleaching on an enamel surface.

An in vitro comparison of dentifrice formulations in three distinct oral microbiotas.

OBJECTIVES: In vitro biofilm models, representative of some aspects of nascent, supra-gingival plaques (Hydroxyapatite Disc Biofilm Models), developed supra-gingival plaques (Modified Drip-flow Biofilm Reactors) and sub-gingival plaques (Multiple Sorbarod Devices) were used to compare the antimicrobial effects of a triclosan-containing dentifrice with a stannous fluoride and zinc lactate combination. DESIGN: Triplicate salivary biofilm microcosms were maintained for 2d (hydroxyapatite discs), 5d (Sorbarods) or up to 6d (drip flow reactors). Dentifrice slurries (10%, w/v) were added once to the discs and repeatedly to the Drip Flow Reactors and Sorbarods. Plaques were analysed by differential culture and gravimetrically. RESULTS: Whilst both dentifrices were comparably effective at reducing viability and plaque accumulation in mature supragingival plaques, the triclosan dentifrice produced comparatively larger reductions in total streptococci and anaerobes in nascent plaques (p<0.05) and greater reductions in Gram-negative anaerobes and streptococci in subgingival plaques. CONCLUSIONS: We have used a multi-model approach to determine the effectiveness and specificity of dentifrices against compositionally distinct plaques. Whilst both formations reduced bacterial viability and plaque accumulation, their effects could be differentiated in nascent and deep plaques where the triclosan dentifrice caused larger viability reductions.