Effects of child formula dentifrices on artificial caries like lesions using in vitro pH-cycling: Preliminary results

Abstract

Aim: To compare the remineralisation effects of different child dentifrices on primary teeth. Design: In vitro single-section technique and pH-cycling model. Methods: Primary teeth were painted with nail varnish, leaving a 1mm wide window before placing in demineralising solution for 96hr to produce artificial carious lesions 150-200μm deep. Teeth were longitudinally cut into approximately 100-150μm thick sections and assigned to three groups (n=7). Sections in Group A were exposed to Perioe Children's Toothpaste® (LG, Korea), Group B to Colgate Pokemon® (Colgate-Palmolive, Thailand) and Group C to Vicco® (Vicco Laboratories, India). Polarised light microscopy and microradiography was used to evaluate lesion depth, before and after 7 days pH cycle. Results: Mean lesion depths in Groups A and C increased by 11% and 14% respectively, while Group B demonstrated a lesion reduction of 3%. Comparisons using ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls tests showed that Groups A and C were significantly different from Group B (p<0.05), but there was no significant difference between Groups A and C. Conclusions: Based on the data obtained, Colgate Pokemon® remineralised initial carious lesions. In addition, when compared to Colgate Pokemon®, Perioe Children's Toothpaste® failed to show 'healing' efficacy even though it is claimed to contain fluoride. © 2007 FDI/World Dental Press.