Evaluating the Abrasivity of a Nanosized Eggshell-Titanium Dioxide on Tooth Enamel Using Atomic Force Microscopy

This study aimed to evaluate nanosized eggshell-titanium dioxide (EB@TiO²) abrasiveness in comparison with calcium carbonate and hydrated silica-containing toothpaste.

Thirty-five bovine tooth enamels were prepared, and specimens randomly assigned to a sample group of five (n = 7), namely, Colgate regular, Colgate pro-relief, Sensodyne rapid relief, Sensodyne repair, and EB@TiO₂. Half of the enamel surface was brushed with each respective sample group, while the other half was covered with a tap.

The mean roughness value (Ra) of the brushed and covered halves were measured using an atomic force microscope (AFM). To assess the surface morphology and changes, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was performed. Using pair sample test and ANOVA, the Ra for the entire specimens were analyzed. A Bonferroni correction was used to identify the mean differences among the five groups (α=.05).

The findings from this analysis show that all the tested toothpaste abraded the enamel significantly (p < 0.05). The abrasive value contained in toothpaste comprising calcium carbonate was lower than the silica toothpaste hydrated.

Overall, Colgate regular had the lowest toothpaste abrasivity, followed by EB@TiO2, while Sensodyne rapid relief had the most enamel wear. The prominent feature of this study suggests that EB@TiO2 is suitable for oral use, as its abrasivity is comparable with calcium carbonate-containing toothpaste.