Effect of experimental bleaching gels with polymers Natrosol and Aristoflex on the enamel surface properties

Natrosol and Aristoflex® AVC polymers are widely applied in the cosmetic industry and have recently been applied as a thickener option in the composition of dental bleaching gels, with the purpose to reduce the adverse effects on enamel mineral components. The aim of this study was to evaluate the color variation (ΔE* ab, ΔE00, ∆WID), surface roughness (Ra), and mineral content quantification (Raman Spectroscopy) of dental enamel after bleaching treatment with experimental gel-based on 10% carbamide peroxide (CP), containing Carbopol, Natrosol, and Aristoflex® AVC. Sixty bovine teeth were randomly divided into 6 groups (n=10): Negative Control (NC) - no treatment; Positive Control (PC) - Whiteness Perfect 10% - FGM; CP with Carbopol (CPc); CP with Natrosol (CPn); CP with Aristoflex® AVC (CPa); NCP - no thickener. Data were analyzed, and generalized linear models (∆WID -T0 x T1) were used for repeated measurements in time for Ra and with a study factor for ΔE* ab and ΔE00. For the evaluation of the mineral content, data were submitted to one-way ANOVA and Tukey tests. For enamel topographic surface analysis the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was performed. A significance level of 5% was considered. ΔE* ab and ΔE00 were significantly higher for CPc, CPn, CPa, and NCP groups. (∆WID) showed a significantly lower mean than the other groups for NC in T1. After bleaching (4-hour daily application for 14 days), Ra was higher in the CPc, CPn, and PC groups. For CPa, Ra was not altered. No significant difference was found in the quantification of mineral content. CPa preserved the surface smoothness more effectively. Aristoflex® AVC is a viable option for application as a thickener in dental bleaching gels, presenting satisfactory performance, and maintaining the whitening efficacy of the gel, with the advantage of preserving the surface roughness of tooth enamel without significant loss of mineral content.