Tooth wear prevention: a quantitative and qualitative in vitro study

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials Research
• Tribology

Background:

• Tooth wear from grinding (bruxism) is a significant dental problem.
• Conventional acrylic nightguards often fail to prevent continued enamel wear.
• Novel strategies are needed to manage and reduce tooth wear effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of three lubricants in reducing enamel wear.
• To compare the wear-reducing effects of calcium fluoride (CaF) powder, olive oil, and a CaF/olive oil slurry.
• To establish a foundation for future clinical studies on lubricants for tooth wear.

Main Methods:

• An electro-mechanical testing machine was used to simulate tooth grinding.
• Sectioned human tooth specimens were subjected to varying loads with and without lubricants.
• Enamel wear rates were quantified by mass loss, and surface morphology was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy.

Main Results:

• All tested lubricants (CaF powder, olive oil, CaF/olive oil slurry) significantly reduced enamel wear compared to no lubricant.
• Olive oil and the CaF/olive oil slurry demonstrated greater wear reduction than CaF powder alone.
• Lubricant type and applied load influenced enamel wear rates, with distinct differences in microwear patterns observed.

Conclusions:

• Dry and wet lubricants can effectively reduce enamel wear under controlled laboratory conditions.
• The findings suggest potential clinical applications for lubricants in managing tooth wear.
• Further research is warranted to explore the clinical viability and optimal application of these lubricants.