Application of chlorhexidine, fluoride and artificial saliva during radiotherapy: An in vitro study of microleakage in Class v restorations

Abstract

Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect on microleakage in Class V restorations of daily applications of artificial saliva, fluoride mouthrinses and chlorhexidine to irradiated bovine teeth. Methods Class V cavities were created in 60 bovine teeth. The teeth were divided randomly into two groups: the first group (n = 30) was subjected to radiotherapy until the teeth had received a total accumulated dose of 60 Gy; the second group (n = 30) was used as a control group. Both groups were divided into three subgroups (n = 10): in Group A teeth were submerged in Xeros Dentaid® artificial saliva; Group B teeth were submerged in a solution of 1% amine fluoride; Group C teeth were submerged in 0.12% chlorhexidine. All treatments were applied three times a day for six weeks. Afterwards microleakage into the composite restorations was measured using MIP4 image software. Results It was seen that radiation caused increases in microleakage in composite restorations. Statistically significant differences were found in the artificial saliva group (p = 0.013) and the chlorhexidine group (p = 0.023). Conclusions Microleakage in composite restorations was greater among radiated teeth. © 2013 Australian Dental Association.