Formulation and evaluation of dental gels and pastilles containing xylitol for dental caries

Abstract

We developed and evaluated dental gels and pastilles containing high concentrations of xylitol for dental caries. First, 16 gel formulations (G1–G16) were prepared containing 20%–30% xylitol and gelling agents (4% hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose: HPMC; 4% carboxy methyl cellulose or 1%–2% xanthan gum). The physical appearance, pH, viscosity, and adhesiveness of the gels were evaluated. Gels containing 2% xanthan gum were considered optimized formulations and were yellowish, homogeneous, translucent, and highly adhesive. Second, 12 pastille formulations (P1–P12) were prepared containing 55.6% xylitol and a combination of 6%–14% gelatin and 1.42%–1.50% carrageenan. The pastilles were evaluated for physical appearance, pH, and dissolution. The pastille formulations containing 8.2% gelatin and 1.50% carrageenan had homogeneous, translucent, and chewable attributes. Furthermore, the stability of the optimized formulations was determined. The physicochemical characteristics of the gels remained acceptable after accelerated and long-term storage at 40 ± 2°C/75 ± 5% RH and 30 ± 2°C/75 ± 5% RH, respectively, for 3 months. No changes in physicochemical characteristics were evident after storage in 30 ± 2°C/75 ± 5% RH for 3 months. However, the pastilles became unstable after one month of storage at 40 ± 2°C/75 ± 5% RH.