Saliva Control Research Articles

Erosion-inhibiting potential of the stannous fluoride-enriched CPP-ACP complex in vitro

Currently available anti-erosive agents only provide partial protection, emphasizing the need to enhance their performance. By characterizing erosive enamel wear at the nanoscale, the aim of this in vitro study was to assess the anti-erosive effects of SnF2 and CPP-ACP both individually and synergistically. Erosion depths were assessed longitudinally on 40 polished human enamel specimens after 1, 5, and 10 erosion cycles. Each cycle comprised one-min erosion in citric acid (pH 3.0) and one-min treatment in whole saliva (control group) or a slurry of one of the three anti-erosive pastes (10% CPP-ACP; 0.45% SnF2 (1100 ppm F); or SnF2/CPP-ACP (10% CPP-ACP + 0.45% SnF2)) (n = 10 per group). Scratch depths were assessed longitudinally in separate experiments using a similar protocol after 1, 5, and 10 cycles. Compared with the control groups, all slurries reduced erosion depths after 1 cycle (p ≤ 0.004) and scratch depths after 5 cycles (p ≤ 0.012). The order of anti-erosive potential was SnF2/CPP-ACP > SnF2 > CPP-ACP > control for erosion depth analysis, and SnF2/CPP-ACP > (SnF2 = CPP-ACP) > control for scratch depth analysis. These data provide ‘proof of concept’ evidence that SnF2/CPP-ACP has superior anti-erosive potential compared to SnF2 or CPP-ACP alone.

The effect of Phytosphingosine and bioactive glass-ceramics in preventing dental enamel erosion.

This study evaluated the effect of phytosphingosine (PHS) and bioactive glass-ceramic (Biosilicate) on dental enamel in terms of color alteration (ΔE), microhardness, and surface roughness when submitted to erosive challenge (EC). Sixty specimens of bovine teeth (6×6×2mm) were obtained. Initial color (Easyshade, VITA), KHN (HMV-2, Shimadzu), and Ra (SJ-201P, Mitutoyo) measurements were performed. Specimens were separated into groups according to treatments: PHS, 10% Biosilicate, PHS+10% Biosilicate, and artificial saliva (control) and submitted to EC with Coca-Cola for 2 min. This cycle was repeated 4 times daily/15 days. Between cycles, specimens remained in artificial saliva (2 h/37°C). After daily cycles, they were also stored in artificial saliva at 37ºC. Final color, microhardness, and surface roughness measurements were done. Color and KHN data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, Tukey's test; and Ra, by 2-way ANOVA, repeated measures, and Tukey's test (p<.05). The highest ΔE occurred in Saliva+EC (p<.05). Groups treated with PHS presented lower color change than Saliva+EC (p<.05). All the groups presented mean values above the 50:50% perceptibility (50:50%PT) and acceptability (50:50%AT) thresholds, except for control that showed mean value above 50:50%PT but below 50:50%AT. Biosilicate+EC showed higher relative microhardness than Saliva+EC (p<.05), but was similar to PHS+EC and PHS+Biosilicate+EC. Final enamel surface roughness increased for all the groups (p<.05), except for the control. The Biosilicate may prevent enamel mineral loss induced by erosion better than saliva. The PHS associated or not to Biosilicate demonstrated better color stability than saliva.

Postoperative Airway Management after Submandibular Duct Relocation in 96 Drooling Children and Adolescents

The aim of this study was to evaluate our institutions airway management and complications after submandibular duct relocation (SMDR). We analysed a historic cohort of children and adolescents who were examined at the Multidisciplinary Saliva Control Centre between March 2005 and April 2016. Ninety-six patients underwent SMDR for excessive drooling. We studied details of the surgical procedure, postoperative swelling and other complications. Ninety-six patients, 62 males and 34 females, were treated consecutively by SMDR. Mean age at time of surgery was 14 years and 11 months. The ASA physical status was 2 in most patients. The majority of children were diagnosed with cerebral palsy (67.7%). Postoperative swelling of the floor of the mouth or tongue was reported in 31 patients (32.3%). The swelling was mild and transient in 22 patients (22.9%) but profound swelling was seen in nine patients (9.4%). In 4.2% of the patients the airway was compromised. In general, SMDR is a well-tolerated procedure, but we should be aware of swelling of the tongue and floor of the mouth. This may lead to a prolonged period of endotracheal intubation or a need for reintubation which can be challenging. After extensive intra-oral surgery such as SMDR we strongly recommend a extended perioperative intubation and extubation after the airway is checked and secure.

Amplicon-based NGS test for assessing MLH1 promoter methylation and its correlation with BRAF mutation in colorectal cancer patients

Detecting MLH1 promoter methylation is highly relevant to differentiate between possible Lynch syndrome patients or patients with sporadic causes of MLH1/PMS2 deficiency in colorectal (CRC) and endometrial cancers. Here, we aimed to develop a test for assessing MLH1 promoter methylation based in next generation sequencing (NGS), and to evaluate the concordance of MLH1 methylation and BRAF-V600 mutation status in CRC. For that, we performed a series of experiments with DNA from tumor, saliva and commercial control samples and our in house developed amplicon-based NGS test. In patients' samples, MLH1 methylation above 10% was only observed in tumors with MLH1/PMS2 loss. We confirmed the reproducibility and accuracy of MLH1 promoter analysis performing a serial dilution experiment with completely methylated and unmethylated control DNAs and a comparison between two NGS platforms (Ion Proton and Illumina). In MLH1/PMS2 deficient tumors, the MLH1 methylation status was concordant with the BRAF mutation status in 90% (18/20) of the cases. Our amplicon-based NGS test showed a great sensitivity and specificity for detecting MLH1 methylation in CRC samples, with a high agreement with the evaluation of BRAF mutation. This simple and affordable test could be used as a reflex test to identify patients with sporadic causes of MLH1/PMS2 deficiency in CRC, aiding to genetic test referral and identification of Lynch syndrome patients.

Effect of Activated Charcoal Toothpaste on Color Stability of Bleached Teeth Immersed in Different Drinks.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of activated charcoal toothpaste on the color stability of teeth subjected to tooth bleaching and pigmenting agents. A total of 120 bovine crowns were randomly divided into 12 groups (n=10) according to two study factors: staining solutions (three levels): saliva (control), coffee, and red wine; and toothpaste (four levels): BPC, Bianco Pro Clinical (Bianco Oral Care) (Control); BIW, Black is White (Curaprox); BCA, Bianco Carbon (Bianco Oral Care); and NAT, Natural Suavetex (Suavetex). The samples were subjected to office bleaching with a 35% hydrogen peroxide-based gel (Whiteness HP Blue, FGM), followed by immersion in the solution for 45 minutes per day and daily toothbrushing for 7 days. The color (ΔE) and luminosity changes (ΔL*) were measured using reflectance spectroscopy (Vita EasyShade). The CIE values (L*, a*, b*) were measured at baseline after bleaching (T0) and immediately after immersion in solution each day (Ti1-Ti7) and after all toothbrushing cycles (Tb1-Tb7). ΔE and ΔL were analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test (α=0.05). The clinically unacceptable level of ΔE > 3.3 was used to evaluate the color change. The color change was significantly influenced by the staining solutions and toothpastes (p<0.001). The color change (ΔE) was significantly higher when immersed in wine than in coffee, and lower ΔE values were observed for artificial saliva (control), irrespective of the toothpaste used. In artificial saliva, BPC, BIW, and BCA resulted in significantly lower ΔE values than NAT, which presented a clinically unacceptable level of dental color change (ΔE>3.3). Coffee resulted in a lower (L*) reduction than wine, irrespective of the toothpaste used. Charcoal toothpastes resulted in a color change on the surface of the tooth enamel (ΔE). The bleaching effect of the charcoal toothpastes and control evaluated in this study partially reduced the color changes on the surface of the tooth enamel caused by staining solutions but was unable to reestablish the measured values to the baseline. For teeth immersed in artificial saliva, the color change was not noticeable in BCA, BIW, and control-BPC (ΔE≥3.3), except for NAT, which showed a significant color change.

Hardness and surface roughness of differently processed denture base acrylic resins after immersion in simulated gastric acid

Statement of problemThe effect of gastric acid on the surface properties of denture base acrylic resin is unknown. PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate changes in the surface roughness and hardness of denture base acrylic resins after immersion in simulated gastric acid. Material and methodsAcrylic resin specimens (n=10) were prepared with 3 different processing techniques (compression-molded, injection-molded, and computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing [CAD-CAM] milled) and exposed to either gastric acid or artificial saliva (control). Surface roughness and hardness were measured at baseline (T0) and after 24-hour (T24) and 96-hour (T96) immersion in the solutions. The surface roughness and hardness data were analyzed by 3-way ANOVA and the Tukey HSD test (α=.05). ResultsAt T24, the greatest change in surface hardness was observed for compression-molded specimens in gastric acid (P<.05). At T96, changes in hardness values were higher in compression-molded specimens than those in milled specimens (P<.05). Regarding surface roughness, at T24, compression-molded and injection-molded specimens showed higher values than milled specimens in gastric acid (P<.05). Concerning specimens in artificial saliva, compression-molded specimens showed significantly higher changes in roughness than those of the others (P<.05). At T96, injection-molded specimens had the greatest roughness values (P<.05). Among specimens immersed in artificial saliva, milled specimens showed lower roughness values than the injection-molded or compression-molded specimens (P<.05). ConclusionsGastric acid exposure adversely affected the roughness and hardness of all the acrylic resins evaluated. CAD-CAM milled specimens showed better resistance to acid exposure after 24 and 96 hours in terms of roughness and hardness.

Effect of Amoxicillin and Azithromycin Suspensions on Microhardness of Sliver Reinforced and Nano Resin-Modified Glass Ionomers

Introduction: We aimed to examine the effect of amoxicillin and azithromycin suspensions on the microhardness of sliver-reinforced glass ionomer and nano-resin modified glass ionomer (GI). Method: Thirty discs (2 mm height x 4 mm diameter) of each type of GI were prepared, which were randomly assigned to amoxicillin, azithromycin, and artificial saliva groups. Microhardness was evaluated by Vickers hardness test before and after three immersion cycles. Results: The overall model (P &lt; 0.001), before/after intervention (P &lt; 0.001), intervention group (type of antibiotic) (P = 0.013), and type of glass ionomer (P &lt; 0.001) showed significant differences among study groups (P &lt; 0.001). Post hoc test showed only non-significant before/after difference for Azithromycin and artificial saliva (control) groups regarding nano resin-modified GI. Conclusion: We found significant microhardness loss for sliver reinforced GI in comparison to nano resin-modified GI after the immersion cycles. Yet, sliver reinforced GI would have higher level of microhardness than nano resin-modified GI after the immersion cycles. Longer time studies are required to assess trend of microhardness loss.

Effect of Different Mouthwashing Regimens on Adhesion of a Universal Adhesive:A Microshear Bond Strength and Scaning Electron Microscopy Evaluation

Objective: To evaluate the effect of probiotic or chlorhexidine-based mouthwashes and coconut oil pulling therapy on microshear bond strength of a universal adhesive, used with two application modes. Method: Ninety-six enamel specimens were prepared using bovine incisors and the surfaces were grounded. Then the specimens were randomly divided into 4groups and each group were subjected to a mouth washing regimen with one of three agents-chlorhexidine mouthwash, probiotic-based mouthwash, coconut oil pulling – or stored in artificial saliva(control) for 7 days(n=24). After the procedure, all groups were divided into 2 subgroups, and a universal adhesive was applied with etch-and-rinse or self-etch mode(n=12). Composite micro-cylinders were bonded to the enamel surfaces and micro-shear-bond strength was measured after 24hours water storage. Failure modes were determined using a stereomicroscope and SEM analysis was also performed. The data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney-U and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: No significant differences were observed between the different mouthwash groups, regardless of application modes(p&gt; .05). There were no significant differences in microshear-bond strength, within the same mouthwash groups, between self-etch or etch-and-rinse modes, except for oil pulling group. Etch-and-rinse group showed higher bond strength than self-etch group in specimens subjected to oil pulling(p&lt; .05). Conclusion: Etch-and-rinse mode might be preferable on patients who practice oil pulling.

Effect of 16% Carbamide Peroxide and Activated-Charcoal-Based Whitening Toothpaste on Enamel Surface Roughness in Bovine Teeth: An In Vitro Study.

Activated charcoal is a nanocrystalline form of carbon with a large specific surface area and high porosity in the nanometer range, having consequently the capacity to absorb pigments, chromophores, and stains responsible for tooth color change, while carbamide peroxide is unstable and breaks down immediately upon contact with tissue and saliva, first dissociating into hydrogen peroxide and urea and subsequently into oxygen, water, and carbon dioxide. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the effect of 16% carbamide peroxide and activated-charcoal-based whitening toothpaste on enamel surface roughness in bovine teeth. The present experimental in vitro, longitudinal, and prospective study consisted of 60 teeth randomly distributed in six groups: A: artificial saliva, B: conventional toothpaste (Colgate Maximum Protection), C: whitening toothpaste with activated charcoal (Oral-B 3D White Mineral Clear), D: 16% carbamide peroxide (Whiteness Perfect 16%), E: 16% carbamide peroxide plus conventional toothpaste (Whiteness Perfect 16% plus Colgate Maximum Protection), and F: 16% carbamide peroxide plus whitening toothpaste with activated charcoal (Whiteness Perfect 16% plus Oral-B 3D White Mineral Clear). Surface roughness was assessed with a digital roughness meter before and after each treatment. For the statistical analysis, Student's t test for related samples was used, in addition to the ANOVA test for one intergroup factor, considering a significance level of p &lt; 0.05. The surface roughness variation of bovine tooth enamel, before and after application of bleaching agent, was higher in groups of whitening toothpaste with activated charcoal (0.200 µm, Confidence Interval (CI): 0.105; 0.296 µm) and 16% carbamide peroxide plus whitening toothpaste with activated charcoal (0.201 µm, (CI): 0.092; 0.309 µm). In addition, bovine teeth treated with conventional toothpaste (p = 0.041), whitening toothpaste with activated charcoal (p = 0.001), and 16% carbamide peroxide plus whitening toothpaste with activated charcoal (p = 0.002) significantly increased their surface roughness values. On the other hand, significant differences were observed when comparing the variation in surface roughness between the application of artificial saliva (control) and the whitening toothpaste with activated charcoal (p = 0.031), and the 16% carbamide peroxide plus whitening toothpaste with activated charcoal (p = 0.030). The use of whitening toothpaste with activated charcoal and in combination with 16% carbamide peroxide significantly increased enamel surface roughness in bovine teeth.

An intensive neurorehabilitation programme with sEMG biofeedback to improve swallowing in idiopathic Parkinson's disease (IPD): A feasibility study.

Studies suggest swallow intervention programmes that incorporate visual biofeedback and motor programming principles can improve swallowing and quality of life for people with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (IPD) and dysphagia. Few studies have examined outcomes using instrumentation. Using fibreoptic endoscopic examination of swallowing (FEES), this study examines the effectiveness of a neurorehabilitation intervention involving biofeedback via surface electromyography (sEMG) to improve swallowing in people with IPD, and to explore the feasibility of the intervention approach. We recruited 12 participants with IPD and dysphagia. A total of 10 completed the study. Intervention was delivered for 1 h per day, 5 days per week, for 4 weeks (20 h). Swallowing tasks using sEMG biofeedback incorporated principles of motor learning and neuroplasticity. Instrumental and non-instrumental assessment, including quality-of-life measures carried out at four different time points (two pre-treatment and two post-treatment). The final assessment was at 3 months post-intervention. Statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) in oral intake methods (95% confidence interval (CI) = 4.70-5.50) and in pharyngeal residue from saliva (95% CI = 2.14-3.15) and solids (95% CI = 2.4-3.5) post-intervention were confirmed using FEES with improvements at 3 months. The intervention protocol was well tolerated. Participants reported positive change in saliva control and duration of mealtimes as well as unanticipated improvements in voice and cognitive attention. An intensive neurorehabilitation with biofeedback shows positive effects in improving swallow function in IPD. This protocol is feasible with amendments to inform a larger clinical trial. What is already known on the subject Biofeedback has positive effects on increasing swallowing function and quality of life in people with IPD and dysphagia. sEMG is the most common method used to deliver swallowing biofeedback in this population. The quality of the evidence on the intervention, based on findings from a recent systematic review, is low. Included studies in this review were heterogeneous in terms of type and frequency of biofeedback, study design and outcome measures. The majority of outcome measures were subjective and higher quality studies to examine the efficacy of biofeedback using sEMG are needed. What this study adds Recognizing the limitations of earlier studies, this within-subject feasibility study examined the efficacy and effectiveness of an intensive biofeedback intervention using sEMG in a sample of people with dysphagia and IPD. Valid and reliable outcome measures were used and repeated after a 3-month period. The feasibility of the methodological approach was also tested and a qualitative component was included in the study. Positive findings were evident. Qualitative information added new perspectives and provided direction for new outcomes to be included in future studies. This study helps to inform further research trials as well as clinical practice. Clinical implications of this study This intensive intervention using principles of neuroplasticity and motor programming with sEMG biofeedback led not only to positive swallowing outcomes but also to unexpected benefits such as improved voice production and general attention skills. No adverse events were reported. Improvement in function was retained at 3 months post-intervention. Despite the small sample size, participants described the benefits of the treatment, and enjoyed sEMG biofeedback tasks, especially using an sEMG game mode. This suggests that intensive biofeedback not only improved swallowing but also was acceptable to these participants. This intensive protocol has merit and is worth considering further in clinical practice.

The Effect of Smoking and Brushing on the Color Stability and Stainability of Different CAD/CAM Restorative Materials.

This study aimed to investigate and compare the color stability and stainability of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) restorative materials in their glazed (G) and polished (P) state when exposed to cigarette smoke, as well as after brushing. Three CAD/CAM restorative materials were investigated: lithium disilicate CAD (LD), zirconia (Zr), and Telio PMMA CAD (PMMA), according to their surface finishing and assignment to cigarette smoking exposure or soaking in the saliva (control) group. The color change (∆E) was calculated before and after the intervention performed for all specimens, using the L*a*b values to quantitatively assess the shade differences. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni multiple comparison analysis (α = 0.05). The surface finishing did not influence the materials’ stainability. Color change was noted after smoking, LD and Zr-G and Zr-P had a comparable color change (p > 0.05), while PMMA presented lower ∆E values (p < 0.05). After brushing, all specimens had a significant color change that was high for LD-G and LD-P, and Zr-G, compared with Zr-P and PMMA (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the exposure to cigarette smoke showed that LD, Zr, and PMMA are all susceptible to staining, but brushing decreases surface staining.

Congenital or Early Developing Neuromuscular Diseases Affecting Feeding, Swallowing and Speech - A Review of the Literature from January 1998 to August 2021.

Background:The knowledge about the impact of oral motor impairment in neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) is limited but increasing.Objective:The aim of this review was to collect and compile knowledge on how muscle weakness in congenital or early developing NMDs directly or indirectly affects feeding, swallowing, speech and saliva control.Methods:A literature search was performed in PubMed from January 1, 1998, to August 31, 2021. The keywords “feeding”, “dysphagia”, “swallowing”, “dysarthria”, “speech”, “drooling” and “sialorrhea” were used in combination with “paediatric neuromuscular disease” or specific diagnoses.Results:Sixty-five studies were selected for the review, 33 focused on feeding and swallowing, 11 on speech, four on a combination of feeding, swallowing, saliva control or speech and 17 general descriptions. Most of the studies reported on patients with a disorder affecting muscles. These studies show that muscle weakness and impaired motility affecting the muscles innervated by the cranial nerves may influence feeding, swallowing, and speech, and that respiratory function, general health and neurodevelopmental delay also influence these functions. Feeding impairment and breathing difficulties are common in NMDs. Lifesaving interventions such as tube feeding and ventilatory support are common in severe cases.Conclusions:Feeding impairment, dysphagia and dysarthria are prevalent in NMDs with congenital or early age of onset. Feeding and swallowing has been studied more than speech and saliva control. More children with NMD survive thanks to new treatment options and it is therefore urgent to follow up how these therapies may impact the development of feeding, swallowing, and speech.

Effects of Two Fluoride Mouthwashes on Surface Topography and Frictional Resistance of Orthodontic Wires.

Objectives: This study compared the effects of fluoride mouthwashes on surface topography of orthodontic wires, and static and kinetic frictional forces between the stainless steel (SS) orthodontic brackets and SS and nickel-titanium (NiTi) archwires. Materials and Methods: This in vitro, study evaluated 240 standard SS maxillary central incisor brackets and 0.018, and 0.025×0.019 inch NiTi and SS archwires. The wire-bracket sets (different combinations of wire diameters and types) were exposed to artificial saliva (control), 0.05% sodium fluoride (NaF) for 1 minute daily, or 0.2% NaF for 1 minute, weekly (37°C) for 3 months. The wires were pulled in bracket slots by 5 mm in a universal testing machine (10 mm/minute). The static and kinetic forces were measured. The surface topography of wires was inspected under a scanning electron microscope (SEM; x500). Data were analyzed by SPSS 25. Results: The mean static and kinetic frictional forces of 0.025×0.019 inch NiTi wire in 0.05% NaF group were significantly greater than SS wire (P=0.000). The mean kinetic frictional force in 0.05% NaF was significantly greater than 0.2% NaF and artificial saliva for all wires (P=0.001). The mean static and kinetic forces in 0.2% NaF were significantly greater than in artificial saliva (P=0.025). In all groups, larger wires showed higher mean frictional forces (P=0.000). SEM results revealed higher wire surface roughness in 0.05% NaF followed by 0.2% NaF group. Conclusion: Weekly use of 0.2% NaF mouthwash is recommended during sliding mechanics to minimize frictional forces between the SS and NiTi wires and SS brackets.

Color Stability of Orthodontic Ceramic Brackets and Adhesives in Potentially Staining Beverages-In Vitro Study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the color stability of esthetic ceramic brackets and adhesive samples after immersion in most commonly consumed beverages. A hundred ceramic brackets from five different manufacturers (Forestadent®, G&H®, GC, DynaFlex®, and American Orthodontics) and 120 samples of adhesives (3M™Transbond™ XT and American Orthodontics BracePaste® color change adhesive and BracePaste® adhesive) were immersed into four different solutions: coffee, Coca-Cola®, the vitamin drink Cedevita®, and artificial saliva (control group). The samples were kept in an incubator at 37 °C. Color readings were evaluated before (T0), at 24 h (T1), 72 h (T3), 7 days (T4), and 14 days (T5) after initial immersion using a spectrophotometer according to the L*a*b* color scale. All the examined brackets showed a statistically significant difference in discoloration (p = 0.001). 20/40™ Brackets (American Orthodontics) showed the best color stability, while the greatest color modification was recognized in QuicKlear® III (Forestadent®) brackets. Regarding adhesives, the greatest staining was observed in the BracePaste® color change adhesive and the least in the Transbond™ XT samples. In conclusion, color change occurs in all solutions, including control groups, and coffee has the greatest impact on color stability.

Impact of desensitizing/whitening toothpastes on tooth color change after abrasion and erosion-abrasion.

To evaluate the impact of desensitizing toothpastes (D), their whitening versions (DW) and whitening toothpastes (W) on tooth color change. Tooth specimens were allocated into 11 groups (n= 10): 1. Artificial saliva (control); 2. Sensodyne Repair & Protect (SRP-D); 3. Sensodyne Repair & Protect Whitening (SRP-DW); 4. Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief (CSPR-D); 5. Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief Real White (CSPR-DW); 6. Colgate Total 12 (CT12); 7. Colgate Total 12 Whitening (CT12-W); 8. Sensodyne True White (ST-W); 9. Curaprox Black Is White (CB-W); 10.Oral-B 3D White Perfection (OB3D-W) and 11. Erosion-only. They were submitted to two models: A. abrasion; B. erosion/abrasion. Color change (ΔE00 ), ΔL, Δa, and Δb were determined with a spectrophotometer. Data were statistically evaluated (α=0.05). For both models, ∆E00 of D did not differ significantly from DW. An overall decrease in luminosity (-∆L) and increase (+∆b) in yellowness of the tooth occurred. In abrasion, all groups reduced redness (-∆a) and only SRP-DW differed from control (p= 0.016), but for ∆E00 , ∆L and ∆b, all toothpastes did not differ from the control. In erosion/abrasion, CB-W showed significantly lower ∆E00 and ∆b than the control (∆E00 : p= 0.026; ∆b: p= 0.005) and SRP-D (∆E00 : p= 0.028; ∆b: p= 0.025). Only SRP-DW, CSPR-DW, ST-W, CB-W, and erosion-only had increased redness (+∆a), but none differed from control. The toothpastes did neither promote whitening nor avoid the yellowish aspect of the tooth after abrasion and erosion-abrasion, regardless of their claim. Desensitizing and/or whitening toothpastes induced similar changes on tooth color, without promoting whitening effect or reduction in its yellowish aspect.

Evaluation of Cleaning Methods on Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramic Surfaces After Organic Contamination.

The purposes of this study were to 1) evaluate the effectiveness of different cleaning methods from a previously etched and silanized lithium disilicate glass ceramic (EMX) surface after contact with organic fluids (saliva or human blood) and 2) assess the effect of applying a new silane layer after the cleaning methods on the microshear bond strength (mSBS) of resin cement to EMX. EMX discs were etched with 5% hydrofluoric acid (HF) and properly silanized. Three control groups were created (n=10): control (without contamination), saliva positive, and human blood positive. Later, after new contaminations, the samples were distributed into four groups according to the cleaning method (n=20): air-water spray (AWS), 35% phosphoric acid, 70% alcohol, or Ivoclean cleaning paste. After the cleaning methods, subgroups were submitted to a new silane layer application, or not (n=10). All samples received a thin layer of a bonding agent and, subsequently, three light-cured resin cement cylinders were prepared on each EMX surface for the mSBS test. This test was performed on a universal testing machine at a vertical speed of 1 mm/minute until rupture. Contaminated and cleaned silanized EMX surfaces were assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) (n=1). The noncontaminated control group showed an average mSBS of 18.7 MPa, and the positive saliva and human blood control groups yielded a 34% and 42% reduction in bond strength, respectively, compared to the uncontaminated control (p<0.05). For saliva-contaminated surfaces, all cleaning methods were effective and not different from one another or the control group (p>0.05). However, for human blood contamination, only Ivoclean cleaning paste was effective in restoring μSBS to uncontaminated control group levels (p>0.05). SEM images showed a clean surface (ie, with no contaminant residues) after the cleaning methods, regardless of the organic contaminant type. All the assessed cleaning methods were effective in removing saliva from the silanized EMX surface; however, only Ivoclean was able to restore the adhesion quality when the silanized EMX surface was contaminated with human blood.

Evaluation of the effect of soft drinks on the surface roughness of dental enamel in natural human teeth

Background: Exposing enamel to soft drinks and beverages causes changes in the microscopical morphology. Changes in the physical characteristics, like hardness and surface roughness, were studied with various parameters. Factors such as pH, exposed duration, and other content of the soft drinks have different effects on the enamel. Methods: Thirty-six human premolar teeth were randomly divided into three groups (n=12). Group 1 consisted of teeth which were immersed in artificial saliva (control), group 2 consisted of teeth which were immersed in Pepsi, and group 3 consisted of teeth which were immersed in Mirinda. After the preparation of samples and necessary measures, surface roughness was measured using the profilometer. Baseline measurements were taken. Reading two and reading three were taken after exposing the specimens for three days and 15 days, respectively. All of the collected data were compared statistically using SPSS and presented in tables and graphs. Results: At the baseline, the surface roughness value was the same for all three groups. On the 3 rd day, the Mirinda group showed more surface roughness compared to that of the test and Pepsi groups, which was statistically significant. On the 15 th day, both the Pepsi and Mirinda groups showed increased surface roughness compared to that of the control, which was statistically significant. Conclusions: Within the limitation of this study, it can be concluded that surface roughness increased when teeth were exposed to both soft drinks

Adaptation and Validation of a Sinhala version of the Radbound Oral Motor Inventory (ROMP) for Parkinson's disease.

Background:The Radboud Oral Motor Inventory for Parkinson's disease (ROMP) is a patient-rated assessment measuring patients' perceptions of speech, swallowing, and saliva control among patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (IPD).Objective:The present study was carried out to adapt and validate the Sinhala version of the ROMP questionnaire in a Sinhala-speaking patient cohort diagnosed with IPD.Materials and Methods:The study population consisted of patients diagnosed with IPD attending a tertiary care neurology clinic at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka. ROMP was translated from English to Sinhala, and an expert committee verified its content. Construct validity was assessed by correlating the Sinhala ROMP scores with the subscales in speech, salivation, and swallowing of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale and with five-point Likert-type scale to assess dysarthria, dysphagia, and drooling by a speech and language therapist. Test–retest reproducibility was assessed by repeating the questionnaire in 2 weeks.Results:A cohort of 21 patients was evaluated (male to female ratio = 2.5:1, mean age was 58.8 [±8.3] years). The Spearman's correlations between ROMP and the Likert-type scale assessment, that is, speech r = 0.85 (P < 0.01), swallowing r = 0.86 (P < 0.01), and drooling r = 0.88 (P < 0.01), and subscales of the UPDRS were statistically significant, that is, speech r = 0.75 (P < 0.01), swallowing r = 0.96 (P < 0.01), and salivation r = 0.94 (P < 0.01). Reproducibility of the three domains and total intraclass correlation coefficients indicated a high level of agreement in test–retest reproducibility (range: 0.98–0.99). The three subdomains of the instrument also had excellent internal consistency (total Cronbach's α = 0.99).Conclusion:The Sinhala version of ROMP has proved to be a good assessment tool for dysphagia, dysarthria, and drooling in the early stage of IPD patients.

Evaluation of the effect of soft drinks on the surface roughness of dental enamel in natural human teeth.

Background: Exposing enamel to soft drinks and beverages causes changes in the microscopical morphology. Changes in the physical characteristics, like hardness and surface roughness, were studied with various parameters. Factors such as pH, exposed duration, and other content of the soft drinks have different effects on the enamel. Methods: Thirty-six human premolar teeth were randomly divided into three groups (n=12). Group 1 consisted of teeth which were immersed in artificial saliva (control), group 2 consisted of teeth which were immersed in Pepsi, and group 3 consisted of teeth which were immersed in Mirinda. After the preparation of samples and necessary measures, surface roughness was measured using the profilometer. Baseline measurements were taken. Reading two and reading three were taken after exposing the specimens for three days and 15 days, respectively. All of the collected data were compared statistically using SPSS and presented in tables and graphs. Results: At the baseline, the surface roughness value was the same for all three groups. On the 3 rd day, the Mirinda group showed more surface roughness compared to that of the test and Pepsi groups, which was statistically significant. On the 15 th day, both the Pepsi and Mirinda groups showed increased surface roughness compared to that of the control, which was statistically significant. Conclusions: Within the limitation of this study, it can be concluded that surface roughness increased when teeth were exposed to both soft drinks.

THE EFFECT OF CARBONATED, ISOTONIC AND YOGHURT DRINKS IMMERSION ON THE ROUGHNESS OF BULK-FILL COMPOSITE RESIN

Background: Composite resins are dental restorative materials that are widely used and have high aesthetic value compared to other materials. However, acidic environmental conditions can degrade the composite resins, resulting in increased surface roughness of the resin, and consequently lead to an increased risk of caries.Objective: the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of immersion in acidic drinks on the surface roughness of composite resins,Method: In this study 24 samples of bulk fillTM composite resins were used. Samples were divided into four groups. Each sample was immersed for 5 seconds in either artificial saliva (control), carbonated beverage, isotonic, or yogurt, and followed by 5 seconds immersion in saliva. This cycle was repeated for 20 times for 14 consecutive days. The roughness of composite resin before and after 14 days immersion was measured by using a profilometer. Microscopic structures were analyzed by Scanning electron Microscope (SEM). Statistical analysis was used paired t-test, Anova and Post Hoc LSD.Results: Data from each sample group was normally distributed- with p &gt; 0.05. The paired t-test for each group showed a p-value &lt; 0.05, which indicates there was a significant difference between surface roughness before and after immersion. ANOVA analysis revealed that there was a difference in the surface roughness between groups LSD test, showed that there was difference in the surface roughness between artificial saliva with carbonated drink, isotonic drink with carbonated drink, yoghurt drink with carbonated drink (p&lt;0.0001), between artificial saliva group with yoghurt drink, yoghurt drink with carbonated drink, yoghurt drink with isotonic drink (p &lt;0.05) which means there was a significant difference between group. Meanwhile, the isotonic drinks with artificial saliva obtained results (p&gt;0.05), which means there is no significant difference.Conclusion: Exposure of carbonated drinks, yoghurt drinks, and isotonic drinks can significantly increase the roughness of the surface Bulk Fill resin composite compared to exposure of artificial saliva.Keywords: Composite resin, Bulk Fill, Surface Roughness, Acid