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Influence of (S)-ketoprofen and fluoride on caries in rats
W H Bowen1, S K Pearson, T P Jerussi
1Center for Oral Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642-8611, USA.
Objective:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (e.g., ketoprofen) used topically appear to be effective in reducing bone loss in the ligature model of periodontitis. Ketoprofen, in common with some food preservatives, e.g., benzoate and sorbate, is a weak acid. Fluoride, too, may behave as a weak acid and, similar to the other agents, may exert antibacterial effects. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether a combination of (S)-ketoprofen, an enantiomer of ketoprofen, alone or in combination with fluoride, would suppress Streptococcus sobrinus populations and reduce the incidence of dental caries in rats.
Materials And Methods:
Toothpastes containing ketoprofen and/or monofluorophosphate were applied to the teeth of six groups of 20 rats twice daily for 5 weeks.
Results:
Fewest S. sobrinus were found in the group treated with a paste containing 3% (S)-ketoprofen + 0.1% F. This group also displayed the lowest incidence of smooth surface caries of all groups. Severity of sulcal surface caries was also lowest in this group.
Conclusions:
Results from this study show that the (S) enantiomer of ketoprofen enhances the caries protective effect of fluoride. It is conceivable that this combination could be effective in combating the two most common maladies of the mouth; periodontal disease and dental caries.