Comparative Evaluation of Surface Degradation of Remineralizing Pastes and Normal Abrasive Toothpastes - A Profilometric Analysis

Abstract

Plaque control is one of the most essential components in the maintenance of oral hygiene as dental plaque is the primary etiological factor that may be involved in the initiation and development of both dental caries and periodontal disease. One of the most common methods for the same is brushing and the use of toothpaste and brush is the most common method for the same. There are various pastes in the market. The aim of the study was to evaluate the surface degradation between a remineralising toothpaste and an abrasive gel. Twenty central incisors were decoronated, mounted, and subjected to insult from a brushing simulator for 15,000 cycles, which is equivalent to 5 years of brushing. According to the grouping, they were subjected to insult with the remineralising toothpaste or abrasive gel. Within the limits of the present study it is evident that there is reduced surface degradation that is observed with a remineralising toothpaste as compared to an abrasive gel. This is of high clinical importance as further research and development in the particular field would increase the awareness among the population and thus improve the oral health of the society.