Abrasive Dentifrice Research Articles

Impact of toothbrush head configuration and dentifrice abrasivity on non-carious cervical lesions in-vitro

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of toothbrush head configuration and dentifrice slurry abrasivity on the development of simulated non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) in vitro. MethodsExtracted premolars were randomly allocated into 15 groups (n = 16) generated by the association between toothbrush head configuration (flat-trimmed, rippled, cross-angled/multilevel/rubbers added, cross-angled/multilevel/flex head, feathered) and dentifrice slurry abrasivity (low/medium/high). Teeth were mounted on acrylic blocks and had their roots partially covered with acrylic resin, leaving 2-mm root surfaces exposed. Toothbrushing was performed for 35,000 and 65,000 double-strokes. Specimens were analyzed using non-contact profilometry for dental volume loss (mm3) and lesion morphology. Data was analyzed using ANOVA with pairwise comparisons and Kruskal-Wallis tests. ResultsThe two-way interaction between toothbrush head configuration and slurry abrasivity was significant (p = 0.02). At 35,000 strokes, the flat-trimmed and cross-angled/multilevel/rubbers added toothbrushes caused the highest loss, when associated to the high-abrasive slurry (p<0.05); whereas cross-angled/multilevel/flex head showed the least loss, when associated to the low-abrasive (p<0.05). At 65,000, more dental loss was observed for all toothbrushes when associated to the high-abrasive slurry, with flat-trimmed causing the highest loss (p < 0.05). Lower dental loss rates were observed for cross-angled/multilevel/flex head associated to the low-abrasive slurry when compared to the other toothbrushes (p < 0.05), except to feathered (p = 0.14) and rippled (p = 0.08). Flat lesions (mean internal angle ± standard-deviation: 146.2°± 16.8) were mainly associated with low-abrasive slurry, while wedge-shaped lesions (85.8°± 18.8) were more frequent with medium- and high-abrasive slurries. ConclusionThe development, progression and morphology of simulated NCCLs were modulated by both toothbrush head configuration and dentifrice abrasivity. Clinical significanceDental professionals should consider both the type of toothbrush and dentifrice abrasivity in the management plan of patients at risk of developing NCCLs.

Influence of abrasive dentifrices on polymeric reconstructive material properties after simulated toothbrushing

To assess the influence of dentifrices with different abrasiveness levels on the properties of dental reconstructive materials. Forty-eight cylinders were obtained from four polymeric materials, being two CAD/CAM acrylic resins (Ivotion-Dent and Ivotion-Base), one injected acrylic resin (IvoBase-Hydrid) and one light-cured resin composite (Empress Direct). Specimens were allocated to four subgroups for toothbrushing simulation according to the dentifrice relative dentin abrasivity (RDA) and silica content: (i) RDA 0 = 0%; (ii) RDA 50 = 3%; (iii) RDA 100 = 10%; and (iv) RDA 120 = 25%. Specimens were then subjected to toothbrushing. Surface analyses [surface roughness Ra (SR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)] along with hardness and optical properties [translucency parameter (TP) and contrast ratio (CR)] were evaluated before and after toothbrushing. Statistical analyses were performed using ANOVA and Tukey test. A significant increase in SR was observed after toothbrushing with higher RDA toothpastes for Ivotion-Dent (100 and 120) and IvoBase-Hybrid (120). Ivotion-Base and Empress Direct presented no significant differences in SR when analyzed as a function of timepoint and RDA levels. Hardness was not influenced by toothbrushing with different RDA dentifrices, except for Empress Direct with RDA 0 toothpaste, where a decrease in the hardness was observed. TP of Ivotion-Dent and Empress Direct significantly decreased after toothbrushing with higher RDA dentifrices and CR of Ivotion-Dent, Empress Direct and IvoBase-Hybrid significantly increased with higher RDA dentifrices. The levels of dentifrice abrasiveness affected differently the SR, hardness and optical properties of polymeric reconstructive materials after toothbrushing.

Color Stability and Surface Roughness of Hybrid and Nanofilled Composites Brushed with Abrasive Dentifrices

AbstractThe aim of this study was to evaluate the color stability and the surface roughness of different composites brushed with toothpastes presenting different levels of abrasivity. Thirty discs of each material were obtained using michohybrid composites (Brilliant NG and Charisma Diamond) and a nanocomposite (Filtek Z350XT). The initial color (CIELab) and surface roughness (confocal laser scanning microscopy) of resin discs were evaluated. Afterwards, 10 specimens per group were brushed with the following dentifrices: Maximum Cavity Protection, Sensodyne Repair &amp; Protect and Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief. Brushing was performed with an electric toothbrush equipped with soft bristle head, with standard power and weight, for 30 minutes. Every 30 seconds, 1.0 ml of the slurry was injected between the bristles of the brush and the specimen. After abrasive challenge, the samples had their color and roughness reevaluated. Data were submitted to the Kruskal-Wallis test (color change) or the t-test (surface roughness). The level of significance was 5%. Results: Brushing did not significantly change the color of the composites tested in the study herein . On the other hand, the surface roughness of the composites was significantly affected by the abrasive challenge, regardless of the toothpaste used. The surface roughness change was similar for all the composites. The abrasive challenge with the toothpastes Maximum Cavity protection, Sensodyne Repair &amp; Protect and Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief was not able to significantly change the color of the composite resins. Nevertheless, the abrasive challenges significantly altered the surface roughness of all the evaluated composites. However, the changes in surface roughness were statistically similar in the microhybrid and nanofilled composites. Keywords: Composites Resins. Dentifrices. Color. ResumoO objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a estabilidade de cor e a rugosidade superficial de diferentes resinas compostas escovadas com dentifrícios de diferentes níveis de abrasividade. Trinta discos de cada material foram obtidos utilizando compósitos micro-híbridos (Brilliant NG e Charisma Diamond) e um nanocompósito (Filtek Z350XT). A cor inicial (CIELab) e a rugosidade superficial (microscopia confocal de varredura a laser) dos discos de resina foram avaliadas. Em seguida, 10 amostras por grupo foram escovadas com os dentifrícios Máxima Proteção Anticáries, Sensodyne Repair &amp; Protect e Colgate Sensitive Pro-Alívio. A escovação foi realizada com uma escova elétrica com cabeça de cerdas macias, com potência e peso padronizados, durante 30 minutos. A cada 30 segundos, 1,0 ml da pasta era injetada entre as cerdas da escova e a amostra. Após o desafio abrasivo, as amostras tiveram sua cor e rugosidade reavaliadas. Os dados foram submetidos ao teste de Kruskal-Wallis (alteração de cor) ou ao teste t (rugosidade da superfície) (α=5%). A escovação não alterou significativamente a cor dos compósitos. Por outro lado, a rugosidade superficial dos compósitos foi significativamente afetada pelo desafio abrasivo, independentemente do dentifrício utilizado. A alteração da rugosidade superficial foi semelhante para todos os compósitos. O desafio abrasivo com a Máxima Proteção Anticáries, o Sensodyne Repair &amp; Protect e o Colgate Sensitive Pro-Alívio não foi capaz de alterar significativamente a cor das resinas. Diferentemente, os desafios abrasivos alteraram significativamente a rugosidade superficial de todos os compósitos avaliados. No entanto, as mudanças na rugosidade foram estatisticamente semelhantes nos compósitos micro-híbridos e nanoparticulado. Palavras-chave: Resinas Compostas. Dentifrícios. Cor.

Effects of cervical restorations on the periodontal tissues: 5-year follow-up results of a randomized clinical trial

ObjectiveThis study evaluated the effect of resin composite restorations of non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) on the occurrence/progression of gingival recession (GR), considering different tooth isolation techniques. MethodsA randomized controlled split-mouth and blinded trial was carried out. Patients (n = 38) with at least two NCCLs were included. Before the cervical restoration placement, the NCCLs (181 teeth) were randomly allocated into two treatment groups according to the tooth isolation techniques: cotton roll or rubber dam. Experienced, trained, blinded, and calibrated examiners performed periodontal evaluations at baseline and 5-year follow-up, using a periodontal probe. Restorations were assessed with the FDI criteria. Thirty-two patients (154 teeth) were evaluated at 5 years. The occurrence/progression of GR between baseline and follow-up was considered the primary outcome. The relative risk (RR) and 95 % confidence interval (95 %CI) were calculated by Poisson regression (α < 0.05). ResultsAfter 5 year, 31 teeth (13.6 %) presented occurrence/progression of GR. In the multivariate analyses, the occurrence/progression of GR was associated with the use of rubber dam isolation (RR; 95 %CI: 2.65; 1.01–7.00) and a lack of marginal adaptation of the restoration (RR; 95 %CI: 10.98; 2.31–52.30). Toothbrush stiffness, use of abrasive dentifrice, tooth type, and the presence of biofilm or gingivitis did not present a statistically significant higher risk for occurrence/progression of GR. ConclusionThe use of rubber dam isolation associated with retraction clamp and the lack of a proper marginal adaptation of the composite restorations are risk indicators for the occurrence/progression of GR in individuals who received a restoration for an NCCL. Clinical significanceIsolation with a rubber dam and dental clamps may promote GR in sites with restored NCCLs. Moreover, clinical examinations for lack of marginal adaptations of the restorations may be included in a clinical setting.

Influence of Erosion/Abrasion and the Dentifrice Abrasiveness Concomitant with Bleaching Procedures.

PurposeThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of erosive/abrasive cycles and two different levels of abrasiveness of dentifrices over enamel and dentin subjected to bleaching.MethodsEnamel and dentin bovine specimens were prepared and submitted to an at-home bleaching treatment using 9.5% hydrogen peroxide gel, which was applied daily (30 min/14 days). Concomitant with bleaching, an erosive cycle was performed using citric acid (0.3%, pH 3.8, 5 mins, 3×/day), followed by immersions in artificial saliva for remineralization (30 mins). Abrasion was done with two (high and low abrasiveness) dentifrices (2×/day, 120 seconds) after the first and third erosive immersion each day. Enamel and dentin softening were assessed by microhardness and erosive tooth wear by optical profilometry. Data were submitted to repeated measures ANOVA, followed by the Tukey’s test with a significance level of 5%.ResultsFor the enamel and considering the erosive-abrasive cycle, significant differences were found between the groups tested, the bleaching, and the abrasiveness of the dentifrice tested; however, the final microhardness values were significantly lower than the initial ones. For dentin, differences were found between the eroded/abrasion and the non-eroded/abrasion groups, with the former presenting lower microhardness values compared with the latter. In addition, bleaching decreased the microhardness values only for the highly abrasive dentifrice, and the final values were lower than for the initial ones for all tested groups.ConclusionThe use of high and low abrasiveness dentifrices during bleaching and concomitant with erosion/abrasion cycles is more harmful to dentin than to enamel.Clinical RelevanceAlthough bleaching is considered a conservative treatment, it can cause deleterious effects to dental hard tissue. The association of an at-home bleaching technique with erosion and high- or low- abrasive dentifrices harms dentin more than enamel.

In vitro abrasivity and chemical properties of charcoal-containing dentifrices

Objective Charcoal-containing dentifrices are gaining popularity, but scientific information on their effect on oral health is scarce. This study investigated properties of dentifrices that may affect dentine abrasivity, as well as their ability to adsorb fluoride, their pH and the presence of harmful substances. Materials and methods The dentifrices NAO and COCO were subjected to the following analyses: abrasivity, expressed as mean abraded depth and relative dentin abrasivity (RDA), and surface roughness of extracted human molars (n = 30) after simulated brushing; fluoride adsorption measured as concentration change; pH measurements; detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The products were compared to a reference dentifrice (Colgate® MaxWhite), positive controls (ISO dentifrice slurry, activated charcoal for laboratory use) and a negative control (distilled water). Results The mean abraded depths of NAO and COCO were not different (p > .05), but higher than the reference dentifrice and the negative control (p < .05). The RDA values of NAO, COCO and the ISO dentifrice slurry were higher than the reference dentifrice value (p < .05) by up to 10 times. The dentine surface roughness was higher after brushing with NAO, COCO and ISO dentifrice slurry compared to distilled water (p < .05). No change in mean adsorbed fluoride concentration was observed after 24 h (p > .05). Both NAO and COCO were alkaline (pH > 7). Analysis of NAO revealed the presence of naphthalene (112.8 ± 2.0 ng/mL). Conclusion The charcoal-containing dentifrices were abrasive within acceptable limits set by ISO and did not adsorb fluoride. The presence of naphthalene in one product is a cause for concern.

Interplay between toothbrush stiffness and dentifrice abrasivity on the development of non-carious cervical lesions.

This study investigated the effect of toothbrush stiffness and dentifrice slurry abrasivity on the development and progression of simulated non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs). Human maxillary premolars were allocated to 12 groups generated by the association between toothbrushes, soft, medium, and hard stiffness, and simulated dentifrice slurries, lower, medium, and higher; deionized water (DI) served as negative control. Teeth were mounted on acrylic blocks, and their root surfaces partially covered with acrylic resin to simulate gingiva, leaving a 2-mm area apical to the cemento-enamel junction exposed to toothbrushing. Specimens were brushed with the test slurries for 35,000 and 65,000 double strokes. Impressions taken at baseline and after both brushing periods were scanned by a 3D optical profilometer. Dentin volume loss (mm3) was calculated by image subtraction. Data were analyzed using three-way ANOVA and Fisher's PLSD tests. All toothbrushes caused higher volume loss when associated to higher abrasive slurry, compared to medium- and lower-abrasive slurries. Medium caused more volume loss than lower-abrasive slurry, which led to more volume loss than DI. Hard and medium toothbrushes were not different when used with medium- or higher-abrasive slurries. There were no differences among toothbrushes when used with DI and lower-abrasive slurry. Overall, 35,000 brushing strokes resulted in significantly less volume loss than 65,000. Toothbrush stiffness was an important factor on NCCL development, especially when brushing with medium- and higher-abrasive slurries. Medium and hard toothbrushes associated with medium- and high-abrasive toothpastes can yield more severe NCCLs.

Effects of brushing with abrasive dentifrices containing various materials on the surface roughness of acrylic resins

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of brushing base dentures with various toothpastes. Heat-cured acrylic resin specimens were divided into three groups and were brushed with dentifrices containing silica, silica + calcium carbonate, and silica + calcium carbonate + perlite for 22 min to represent one year of brushing. The surface roughnesses of the base dentures were then determined and compared using paired t-tests and Kruskall–Wallis tests. These analyses showed that more complex abrasive materials result in the greater surface roughness of acrylic dentures.

3D-Image analysis of the impact of toothpaste abrasivity on the progression of simulated non-carious cervical lesions

ObjectivesTo investigate the effect of toothpaste abrasive level on the progression of non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) using 3D-image subtraction. MethodsUpper first premolars were allocated into seven groups (n = 16) of toothpaste/abrasive slurries: A-Zeodent113/5%, B-Zeodent124/10%, C-Zeodent103/15%, D-Sensodyne Pronamel, E-Crest Cavity-Protection, F-Crest Pro-Health-Whitening, and G-Deionized water (DIW). Teeth were mounted on acrylic blocks, and their root surfaces covered with acrylic resin, except for 2-mm near the cemento-enamel junction that was exposed to toothbrushing. Specimens were brushed with the slurries for 5000-, 15,000-, 35,000- and 65,000-strokes. Impressions were taken at baseline and after each brushing time, and then scanned by a 3D optical profilometer. Dentine volume loss was calculated by image subtraction software and subjected to mixed-model ANOVA and multiple comparison tests (α = 0.05). ResultsNo significant differences among slurries were observed at 5000 and 15,000. At 35,000, F showed higher loss than all other groups except C, which did not differ from the others. At 65,000, F (4.19 ± 3.29 mm3) showed the highest loss, followed by C (2.33 ± 1.47 mm3), which differed from all the other groups except B (1.85 ± 0.91 mm3). Groups B, A (1.35 ± 0.65 mm3), D (1.17 ± 0.48 mm3), E (1.40 ± 0.68 mm3) and G (1.12 ± 0.73 mm3) did not differ from each other. Groups F and C showed significant increase of volume loss starting at 35,000, while B, A, D and E only at 65,000; no increase loss was observed for G. Conclusions3D-image subtraction was able to quantify and differentiate tooth loss, but only at advanced stages. The progression of NCCLs was more evident and faster for highly abrasive slurries. Clinical significanceUpon root dentin exposure, brushing with lower abrasive dentifrices is advisable to reduce the risk for NCCLs development.

The Effect of Brushing and Aging on the Staining and Smoothness of Resin Composites.

To evaluate the staining and smoothness of resin composites undergoing aging in water or red wine and simulated brushing with or without dentifrice. The resin composites (Z250 microfilled and Z350XT nanofilled) were tested according to aging media (deionized water or red wine) and surface treatment (no brushing, brushed with water, or brushed with dentifrice). Specimens (n = 10) were subjected to three aging cycles (5 days) of continuous immersion in the aging media; each followed by simulated brushing (585 strokes). Color coordinates (CIEL*a*b*) were measured with a spectrophotometer (SP60, EX-Rite) and roughness (Ra) measured with a contact profilometer (Surftest SJ-201P, Mitutoyo), in five time points across the experiment. Surface morphology was analyzed using AFM (SPM-9600, Shimadzu) at the end of the experiment. Data for color change (ΔE00 ) and Ra were analyzed by two-way repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey test (p < 0.05). Color change was observed for all groups, and it was always greater for Z350. Surface treatment did not influence the ΔE00 values for the groups aged in water. However, brushing decreased ΔE00 for the groups aged in red wine. In general, ΔE00 increased with time. Little to no differences in smoothness were observed with aging and brushing. The surface morphology analyses showed exposed/lost filler particles for brushed Z250. Such observations were not so clear for Z350. Within the limitations of the present experiment, short-time simulated toothbrushing with soft-bristle toothbrush and low abrasive dentifrice did not increase roughness and reduced staining for both nanofilled and microfilled materials. Staining and surface degradation of the resin composites was reduced, but not prevented by brushing alone. Thus, minimizing the restoration exposure to staining substances is important for maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the restoration. (J Esthet Restor Dent 29:E44-E55, 2017).

A randomised clinical in situ study to evaluate the effects of novel low abrasivity anti-sensitivity dentifrices on dentine wear

ObjectivesTo compare the abrasive wear on human dentine in an in situ model associated with use of an experimental low abrasivity anti-sensitivity dentifrice containing 1% alumina and 5% sodium tripolyphosphate (STP) with an experimental ultra-low abrasivity non-alumina 5% STP dentifrice, a higher abrasivity daily-use whitening dentifrice, and water as controls. MethodsThis was a single-centre, single-blind, randomised, split-mouth, four-treatment, two-period, crossover in situ study in 29 healthy subjects. Subjects wore bilateral lower buccal appliances, each fitted with four dentine specimens. Study treatments were applied ex vivo (three times daily). Dentine loss was measured by non-contact profilometry after 5, 10 and 15days’ treatment. ResultsAll 29 subjects were included in the efficacy analysis. Significantly less dentine loss was associated with brushing with the low and ultra-low abrasivity dentifrices than with the higher abrasivity dentifrice at all timepoints (p<0.01). Brushing with ultra-low abrasivity dentifrice or water resulted in statistically significantly less dentine loss compared with brushing with the low abrasivity dentifrice at all timepoints (p<0.05). Dentine loss after brushing with ultra-low abrasivity dentifrice was not significantly different from brushing with water. ConclusionsThe degree of dentine loss observed in this in situ model reflected the abrasivity of the study dentifrices. Brushing with low or ultra-low abrasivity STP-containing anti-sensitivity dentifrices resulted in significantly less dentine loss (equating to dentine wear) than with a higher abrasivity daily-use whitening dentifrice.

In vitro effects of acid challenge on incisal/occlusal cupping/cratering

Statement of problemThe cause of occlusal/incisal cupping/cratering (depressed dentin surrounded by elevated rims of enamel) has been postulated to be primarily the effect of acid on exposed dentin. It is hypothesized that abrasion, bruxism, attrition, and stress-corrosion may play a secondary role in lesion formation. The primary cause and sequence of occlusal/incisal cupping/cratering remain scientifically controversial. PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the effects of acid on human enamel, mantle dentin, and peritubular dentin in the creation of incisal/occlusal cupping/cratering. This study was designed to visually illustrate the role of acid in the formation of cupping/cratering. Material and methodsA soft compact toothbrush was tested using both high relative dentin abrasivity (RDA)- and low-RDA dentifrices and water only (nonabrasive) on extracted human teeth. Seventeen specimens of 4 teeth each (68 teeth) were subjected to horizontal brushing with a 1:1 dentifrice-to-water slurry or water only. Twelve of these 17 specimens, a total of 48 teeth, were subjected to acid challenge. Each of these 12 specimens were brushed for 500 strokes after each acid challenge for a total of 150000 strokes and 300 acid immersions. Half the specimens were acid challenged for 5 minutes and the other half for 10 minutes between brushings. ResultsNo visible loss of tooth structure was noted in the control specimens brushed in water only. The control specimens brushed in a 1:1 slurry of toothpaste/water demonstrated incisal/occlusal cupping/cratering. The acid-challenged specimens brushed in water only demonstrated enamel and peritubular dentin loss with elevated rims and/or plateaus of mantle dentin, the opposite of occlusal/incisal cupping/cratering. All specimens brushed with the higher abrasive dentifrice demonstrated visible wear of enamel, mantle, and peritubular dentin, culminating in occlusal/incisal cupping/cratering. Surprisingly, those acid-challenged specimens brushed with the lower abrasive toothpaste demonstrated visible wear of the enamel and peritubular dentin, resulting in elevated rims and/or plateaus of mantle dentin. ConclusionsAcid affects both the enamel and the mineralized component of dentin. This study demonstrated that incisal/occlusal cupping/cratering occurring in worn dentition can be caused by the use of dentifrice alone. Acid challenge affects the inorganic components of tooth structure but not the organic components and so does not cause the dentinal cupping/cratering of the incisal/occlusal surfaces of the human dentition.

Toothbrushing abrasion susceptibility of enamel and dentin bleached with calcium-supplemented hydrogen peroxide gel

The objective of this study was to evaluate enamel and dentin susceptibility to toothbrushing abrasion, after bleaching with 7.5% hydrogen peroxide (HP) gel supplemented or not with 0.5% calcium gluconate (Ca). Toothbrushing was performed immediately and 1h after bleaching, with two suspensions (high and low abrasivity). Bovine enamel and dentin specimens were divided into 12 groups (n=10) according to the bleaching gel (with and without Ca), slurry abrasivity (high or low) and elapsed time after bleaching (immediately and after 1h). As control, a group was not bleached, but abraded. The treatment cycle (7 d) consisted of bleaching (1h) and toothbrushing (135 strokes/day) immediatelly or after 1h of artificial saliva exposure. Surface roughness and surface loss (μm) were measured by profilometry and analysed by three-way ANOVA (5%). Surface roughness means were significantly influenced by slurry abrasivity (p<0.0001). For enamel loss, significant triple interaction was observed (p<0.0001). HP-bleached groups and immediately brushed with high-abrasive slurry exhibited increased loss (1.41±0.14) compared to other groups (μm). Control and HP+Ca-bleached groups brushed after 1h with low abrasive slurry presented the lowest loss (0.21±0.03/0.27±0.02). For dentin loss, significant interaction was observed for bleaching and interval factors (p<0.001). 7.5%HP-bleached groups and immediately brushed showed significantly higher loss (8.71±2.45) than the other groups. It was concluded that surface roughness increased when high abrasive was used, independently of bleaching. 7.5%HP increased enamel and dentin loss, mainly with high abrasive slurries. Calcium supplementation of bleaching gel reduced surface loss. Additionally, in order to minimize tooth wear susceptibility, it is recommended to delay brushing after bleaching. Clinical relevanceAfter bleaching gel application, postponing toothbrushing is recommended, as well as brushing with low abrasive dentifrices. Additionally, supplementation of hydrogen peroxide gel with calcium-based remineralizing agent potentially reduces tooth loss after abrasion.

Combined effect of end-rounded versus tapered bristles and a dentifrice on plaque removal and gingival abrasion.

Two previous clinical studies evaluated the effect of end-rounded versus tapered bristles of soft manual brushes on the removal of plaque and gingival abrasion. However, the combined effect of an abrasive dentifrice on these outcomes has yet to be understood. The purpose of the present study was to compare the incidence of gingival abrasion and the degree of plaque removal obtained after the use of toothbrushes with tapered or end-rounded bristles in the presence or absence of an abrasive dentifrice. The study involved a randomized, single-blind, crossover model (n = 39) with a split-mouth design. Subjects were instructed to refrain from performing oral hygiene procedures for 72 hours. Quadrants were randomized and subjects brushed with both types of toothbrushes using a dentifrice (relative dentin abrasion = ± 160). Plaque and gingival abrasion were assessed before and after brushing. After 7 days, the experiment was repeated without the dentifrice. The average reduction in plaque scores and the average increase in the number of abrasion sites were assessed by repeated-measures ANOVA and Bonferroni's post-hoc tests. End-rounded bristles removed significantly more plaque than tapered bristles, regardless of the use of a dentifrice. The dentifrice did not improve plaque removal. In the marginal area (cervical free gingiva), no difference in the incidence of gingival abrasion was detected between toothbrush types when used with a dentifrice (p ≥ 0.05). However, the dentifrice increased the incidence of abrasion (p < 0.001), irrespective of the toothbrush type tested. End-rounded bristles therefore removed plaque more effectively without causing a higher incidence of gingival abrasion when compared with tapered bristles. An abrasive dentifrice can increase the incidence of abrasion, and should be used with caution by individuals who are at risk of developing gingival recession.

Comparative evaluation of tooth substance loss and its correlation with the abrasivity and chemical composition of different dentifrices.

In India, teeth cleaning with tooth powder is common in rural and semi-urban areas. These dentifrices may contain low-quality abrasives, which may have a deleterious effect on dental hard tissues. This study aims to evaluate the tooth substance loss caused by different dentifrices and to correlate it with chemical composition, size, and shape of abrasives used. An indigenously made automated machine was used for brushing the specimens. Sixty-four freshly extracted premolars were allocated to eight groups (n = 8). Colgate toothpaste was used as the control group. Each specimen was brushed in a vertical motion for 2½ h at 200 strokes/min with a constant applied load of 200 g corresponding to 6-month brushing. The difference in weight (pre- and post-brushing) was determined by an analytical weighing machine. Chemical analysis was done to determine the presence of iron oxide by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry method. Shape and size of the abrasive particles was evaluated under scanning electron microscopy (SEM). One-way analysis of variance and Paired t-test were used to analyze the data. Tooth substance loss was maximum in the group brushed with red tooth powder, which was shown to contain the highest amount of iron oxide and also exhibited large, irregularly shaped abrasive particles under SEM. Tooth substance loss was documented to be correlated with chemical composition (iron oxide) and the size and shape of abrasive particles used in dentifrices.

Effect of Brushing Time and Dentifrice Abrasiveness on Color Change and Surface Roughness of Resin Composites.

Dentifrice abrasiveness and brushing time may increase color change (∆E) and surface roughness (∆Ra) of resin composites. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of mechanical brushing time of dentifrices with different abrasiveness on ∆E and ∆Ra of nanofilled (Z350, 3M ESPE) and nanohybrid (Tetric N-Ceram, Ivoclar Vivadent) resin composites. Sixteen specimens (12 mm diameter x 2 mm thick) were fabricated using a white Teflon matrix of each resin composite and a ceramic (IPS e.max Ceram, Ivoclar Vivadent), used as control. After initial color readouts on white backgrounds (Spectrophotometer PCB 6807, Byk Gardner), with D65 standard illuminant, and surface roughness (Rugosimeter Surfcorder SE 1700, Kosalab) with cut-off=0.8 mm and speed=0.25 mm/s, specimens were assigned (n=8) according to the abrasiveness of the dentifrices: RDA* 68 (Colgate) and RDA* 180 (Colgate Total Plus Whitening). Specimens were submitted to mechanical brushing (58,400 cycles) and after every 14,600 cycles (1 year of brushing by a healthy individual), new color and surface roughness readouts were taken. Color stability was calculated by CIEDE2000. Data were analyzed by 3-way repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni test (p<0.05), and demonstrated that the dentifrice abrasiveness (p=0.02) and brushing time (p<0.0001) affected the ∆E of nanofilled resin composite. There was no difference on surface roughness of materials (p=0.6752) or brushing time (p=0.7997). In conclusion, the longer the brushing time and dentifrice abrasiveness, the greater the color change of the nanofilled resin composite. The surface roughness was not influenced by dentifrice abrasiveness.

Adverse effects on PMMA caused by mechanical and combined methods of denture cleansing.

This study evaluated the abrasiveness of mechanical and combined methods of denture hygiene, by the analysis of mass loss and surface roughness. Acrylic resin specimens (Plexiglass) were brushed by a tooth brushing machine (Mavtec) with a soft brush (Tek) and water (control) or four dentifrices (Sorriso, Colgate, Polident and Corega) (Experimental groups) for 50 min, representing one year of brushing (mechanical method). After brushing, the specimens were immersed in 0.5% sodium hypochlorite simulating a daily cleaning of 20 min for one year (combined method). Distilled water (23 ºC) was employed as control. The mass loss (g) was analyzed by an analytical balance and the surface roughness (μm) by a rugosimeter. Data were subjected to ANOVA and Bonferroni test (α=0.05). Polident dentifrice showed lowest values of mass loss for both methods (mechanical: -0.0072±0.0017, combined:-0.011±0.002) and the combined method resulted in greater mass loss than the mechanical, except for Corega. For the surface roughness, after the mechanical method, the lowest values were registered for water (-0.007±0.016) and Polident (0.402±0.378); for the combined method, water (-0.063±0.013) showed the lowest values; there was no statistically significant difference between methods. It was concluded that Polident was the less abrasive dentifrice and the association between chemical and mechanical methods increased the mass loss but did not change the surface roughness of specimens.

Effect of Nanofiller Technology on Surface Properties of Nanofilled and Nanohybrid Composites

Context: Nanocomposites are becoming popular today because of the manufacturers claiming high surface smoothness and good abrasion resistance properties thus improving the longevity of the restoration. Aims: This in vitro study was carried out to investigate the effect of nanofillers on surface roughness and abrasion resistance of nanofilled composite- Filtek Z350 (3M ESPE) and nanohybrid composite- Tetric N Ceram (Ivoclar Vivadent) after polishing and abrasion. Methods and material: A total of fifteen disc specimens of each category of material were prepared under standardized conditions. The discs were finished and polished according to manufacturer's instructions. The samples were examined for surface roughness using Mahr Perthometer M2 followed by scanning electron microscope examination. In order to assess the performance of the materials in simulated oral conditions the samples were then subjected to toothbrush-dentifrice abrasion and the resultant surface roughness was compared for both the materials. Statistical analysis: Mean value of surface roughness was calculated for both the groups from Ra values before and after toothbrush- dentifrice abrasion followed by calculation of Standard deviation (SD). Paired-t test was then applied to compare the surface roughness values before and after toothbrush-dentifrice abrasion within the same group. Results: Initially the surface roughness of Filtek Z350 were found to be superior to Tetric N Ceram but after subjecting to toothbrush dentifrice abrasion Tetric N Ceram showed greater increase in surface roughness as compared to Filtek Z350. The difference was found to be statistically significant. Conclusions: Nanofiller type, size and distribution significantly influence the surface properties of composites. Though nanohybrid composite showed a better initial surface polish but nanofilled composite showed a better abrasion resistance.

The effect of dentifrice abrasion on denture topography and the subsequent retention of microorganisms on abraded surfaces

Denture surfaces provide hard nonshedding niches for the adhesion and subsequent accumulation of oral microorganisms into denture plaque, which can harbor various potential pathogens linked with oral mucosal lesions and inhalation pneumonia. The initial adhesion is the prerequisite for subsequent biofilm growth, and surface roughness niches facilitate this process by trapping cells. Retained microorganisms are then able to proliferate when the denture is returned to the oral cavity. The purpose of this study was to measure the amount and strength of the attachment of microorganisms to a roughened denture acrylic resin surface. An increase in surface roughness increases the retention of microorganisms and a greater amount of cell-surface contact interface may increase the strength of adhesion and, therefore, retention. Cleaning denture surfaces with brushes and dentifrices can influence the denture surface topography and, therefore, may affect retention. Denture acrylic resin specimens were abraded to provide different surface roughness. The amount of attachment of Streptococcus oralis or Candida albicans to these surfaces was assessed by measuring the area of a microscopic field covered by stained cells after 1 hour of incubation. The strength of attachment was assessed with atomic force microscopy, whereby an increasing force was applied to the attached cells until they detached from the surface. Both bacteria and yeast cells were retained in increasing amounts on surfaces of increasing roughness. Cells were most strongly attached on surfaces whose linear features (scratches) were of comparable size with the cells (the streptococci on the low-abraded surfaces, and the yeast on high-abraded surfaces). Analysis of findings reveal that even small abrasions may enhance retention on denture surfaces and reduce surface cleanability. The strength of attachment instead of the amount is more important in terms of surface hygiene.

Dentifrice Fluoride and Abrasivity Interplay on Artificial Caries Lesions

Incipient caries lesions on smooth surfaces may be subjected to toothbrushing, potentially leading to remineralization and/or abrasive wear. The interplay of dentifrice abrasivity and fluoride on this process is largely unknown and was investigated on three artificially created lesions with different mineral content/distribution. 120 bovine enamel specimens were randomly allocated to 12 groups (n = 10), resulting from the association of (1) lesion type [methylcellulose acid gel (MeC); carboxymethylcellulose solution (CMC); hydroxyethylcellulose gel (HEC)], (2) slurry abrasive level [low (REA 4/ RDA 69); high (REA 7/RDA 208)], and (3) fluoride concentration [0/275 ppm (14.5 m<smlcap>M</smlcap>) F as NaF]. After lesion creation, specimens were brushed in an automated brushing machine with the test slurries (50 strokes 2×/day). Specimens were kept in artificial saliva in between brushings and overnight. Enamel surface loss (SL) was determined by optical profilometry after lesion creation, 1, 3 and 5 days. Two enamel sections (from baseline and post-brushing areas) were obtained and analyzed microradiographically. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Tukey's tests (α = 5%). Brushing with high-abrasive slurry caused more SL than brushing with low-abrasive slurry. For MeC and CMC lesions, fluoride had a protective effect on SL from day 3 on. Furthermore, for MeC and CMC, there was a significant mineral gain in the remaining lesions except when brushed with high-abrasive slurries and 0 ppm F. For HEC, a significant mineral gain took place when low-abrasive slurry was used with fluoride. The tested lesions responded differently to the toothbrushing procedures. Both slurry fluoride content and abrasivity directly impacted SL and mineral gain of enamel caries lesions.