Reversal of primary root caries using dentifrices containing 5,000 and 1,100 ppm fluoride

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Cariology
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Primary root caries lesions (PRCLs) pose a significant challenge in restorative dentistry.
• Assessing the efficacy of different fluoride concentrations in remineralizing PRCLs is crucial for effective caries management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of a 5,000 ppm sodium fluoride (NaF) dentifrice against a 1,100 ppm NaF dentifrice in reversing PRCLs.
• To evaluate the impact of these dentifrices on lesion hardness, electrical resistance, and clinical progression.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 201 subjects with PRCLs.
• Clinical assessment and electrical caries monitoring of lesions at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months.
• Comparison of lesion hardening, changes in electrical resistance, lesion margin advancement, and plaque index between the two fluoride groups.

Main Results:

• Significantly more subjects using 5,000 ppm NaF experienced lesion hardening at 3 months (38.2%) and 6 months (56.9%) compared to 1,100 ppm NaF (10.7% and 28.6%, respectively).
• Lesion electrical resistance significantly increased in the 5,000 ppm NaF group, indicating remineralization, while it decreased in the 1,100 ppm NaF group.
• The 5,000 ppm NaF group showed significant reduction in plaque index and advancement of lesion margins away from the gingival margin.

Conclusions:

• The 5,000 ppm NaF dentifrice demonstrated superior efficacy in remineralizing primary root caries lesions compared to the 1,100 ppm NaF dentifrice.
• High-fluoride dentifrices are effective in reversing root caries and improving oral hygiene markers.