Evaluation of dentinal tubule occlusion using a desensitizing toothpaste and mouthwash for a period of 60 days: Scanning electron microscopy analysis

Abstract

Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the dentinal tubule occlusion using a desensitizing toothpaste, mouthwash, and their combination for a period of 60 days under scanning electron microscope (SEM). Materials and Methods: A total of 120 extracted premolars were collected, cleaned of gross debris, and sectioned labiolingually to obtain 60 mesial and distal surfaces. Smear layer was removed by etching the blocks in 6% citric acid for 2 min and rinsed in distilled water. The specimens were divided into four groups with a control group, mouthwash, toothpaste, and their combination groups brushed twice daily for 60 days. The sections were viewed under SEM to detect the percentage of tubule occlusion. Groups were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results: The toothpaste group showed better tubule occlusion followed by the combination and mouthwash group (P > 0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference between all the three groups. All the groups showed complete tubule occlusion on the 28th, 45th, and 60th day. Conclusions: The dentin tubule occlusion was in the order: toothpaste group > combination group > mouthwash group. Maximum dentine tubule occlusion was found by the 28th day in all the groups.