Evidence on the anticariogenic effect of arginine-containing toothpastes: A systematic review

Abstract

Arginolytic bacteria metabolize the arginine found in saliva, producing ammonia, which is, potentially, an inhibitory endogenous factor of the cariogenic microbiota. Arginine-containing toothpastes could provide greater availability of this amino acid and therefore help to prevent cavities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the published evidence about the anti-cariogenic effect of arginine-containing toothpastes. A systematic literature review was carried out in the PubMed, Scholar Google, and Web of Science databases published in the period from 2010 to 2020. The eligibility criteria were original articles with the design of randomized and observational clinical trials, published in full-text in English or Spanish, with participants of all ages, in which the anti-cariogenic effect of arginine was evaluated. Of the 424 records identified, 42 full-text studies were reviewed. Seven studies were selected for meeting the eligibility criteria. In three of the studies there was a decrease in the development of caries; two studies determined that the activity of the arginine deiminase system is greater. The remineralization of incipient lesions in the enamel is reported by two studies, as well as the reduction in the production of lactic acid. No arginine-related side effects were reported. According to the analysis of the included studies, it can be concluded that toothpastes containing a combination of fluoride and arginine, possess a greater amount of benefits and anticariogenic activity when compared to conventional toothpastes.