In vivo delivery of fluoride and calcium from toothpaste containing 2% hydroxyapatite

Abstract

Objective: To measure the in vivo delivery of fluoride and calcium of a new oral health toothpaste containing zinc citrate trihydrate, hydroxyapatite, potassium citrate and α-tocopherol acetate (Vitamin E) compared to standard fluoride toothpaste. Methods: The new toothpaste contained 2% hydroxyapatite and 0.1% Vitamin E acetate (α-tocopherol acetate). It also included an anti-caries agent (1.1% sodium monofluorophosphate) an antigingivitis agent (2% zinc citrate trihydrate) and an anti-sensitivity agent (potassium cit-rate). Two studies were carried out. In study 1 the bio-availability of fluoride was measured in plaque after brushing with the test and a clinically tested fluoride toothpaste (control). In study 2 the effect of the test toothpaste on calcium levels in saliva and on the tooth surface was investigated compared to a toothpaste without added hydroxyapatite. Results: The fluoride concentration in plaque after brushing with the test and control toothpaste was significantly higher in both groups than before brushing (p<0.001). The difference in post-brushing fluoride concentration between the two groups was not statistically significant. The calcium concentration in saliva after brushing with the test toothpaste was higher than after brushing with the control toothpaste. The difference between the two means was statistically significant (p<0.001). Mean calcium concentration in tooth surface swab samples were significantly higher in the test group than in the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion: Plaque fluoride concentration was significantly increased after brushing with a new toothpaste containing 2% hydroxyapatite. The concentration of calcium in saliva and on the tooth surface was significantly increased compared to a standard toothpaste.