[Dentin demineralization in situ during frequent exposures to bananas or sucrose]

The aim of the study was to compare sucrose solution and bananas on demineralizing potential in situ, and to address the question if fluoride toothpaste is equally effective in preventing dentin demineralization at open, smooth surfaces and at plaque stagnation sites (grooves). Four volunteers wore an appliance containing bovine dentin specimens with narrow grooves and a smooth surface for two 1-week in situ periods, with 8 1-minute exposures daily: either by a rinse with 10% sucrose, or by consumption of a piece of banana. Twice daily, the appliance was dipped in toothpaste slurry of a fluoride-free toothpaste at one side and a fluoride toothpaste at the contralateral side. Demineralization was assessed by tranversal microradiography. No difference in dentin demineralization was found after frequent exposure to either sucrose solution or bananas. Fluoride toothpaste effectively protected dentin only at the smooth surfaces. In the grooves, fluoride affected the demineralization pattern; it drove lesions towards the bottom of the groove.