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Enamel hardness after exposure to acidic drinks and brushing
Steven E Berry1, Chiayi Shen, Roy G Jerrell
1Department of Prosthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Florida in Gainesville, USA.
General Dentistry
|May 19, 2010
Summary
Short-term exposure to acidic drinks can etch tooth enamel, reducing surface hardness. While brushing may remove the softened layer, repeated exposure and brushing can lead to detectable enamel loss.
Area of Science:
- Dental Science
- Materials Science
Background:
- Tooth enamel is susceptible to acid erosion.
- Dietary acidic beverages pose a risk to dental health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of short-term acidic drink exposure on enamel surface microhardness.
- To determine if subsequent brushing causes enamel loss after acid exposure.
Main Methods:
- Enamel specimens were immersed in acidic drinks (pH 2.8 and 3.3) for varying durations (5 seconds to 10 minutes).
- Surface microhardness was measured before and after immersion and brushing.
- Two-way ANOVA was used to analyze the data.
Main Results:
- Acidic drinks significantly reduced enamel surface microhardness, especially at lower pH (2.8) and longer immersion times.
- Short exposure (5 seconds) caused etching but not significant hardness reduction.
- Brushing removed the softened layer, but repeated exposure and brushing led to detectable enamel loss.
Conclusions:
- Short-term acidic drink exposure can initiate enamel demineralization.
- Toothbrushing following acid exposure can contribute to enamel surface loss.
- Minimizing exposure to acidic beverages is crucial for maintaining enamel integrity.
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