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In Vitro Analysis of Enamel Abrasion Using a Novel Manual Nano-Bristle Toothbrush: An Atomic Force Microscopy Study
Mohan Prasad1, Prem Blaisie Rajula1, Ravishankar Pl1
1Periodontology, SRM Kattankulathur Dental College and Hospital, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu, IND.
Cureus
|January 7, 2025
Summary
Nano-bristle toothbrushes cause the least enamel abrasion compared to soft and ultra-soft options. This suggests nano-bristles are a gentler choice for preserving tooth enamel integrity.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Surface Science
Background:
- Toothbrush abrasion can lead to enamel wear, impacting oral health.
- Selecting appropriate toothbrush bristles is crucial for enamel preservation.
- Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) offers high-resolution surface analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the enamel abrasion potential of nano-bristle, ultra-soft, and soft toothbrushes.
- To utilize AFM for quantitative assessment of enamel surface changes.
- To guide toothbrush selection for optimal enamel protection.
Main Methods:
- An in vitro study using 45 extracted human incisors.
- Teeth were divided into three groups: nano-bristle, ultra-soft, and soft.
- Simulated one year of brushing (10,000 cycles, 2 N force) with toothpaste slurry, analyzed by AFM.
Main Results:
- Nano-bristle toothbrushes exhibited minimal enamel surface roughness increase (4 nm).
- Soft (14.08 nm) and ultra-soft (14.86 nm) bristles caused significantly greater abrasion.
- AFM confirmed nano-bristles are less abrasive than both soft and ultra-soft bristles.
Conclusions:
- Nano-bristle toothbrushes demonstrated the least enamel abrasion.
- These findings suggest nano-bristles are a favorable option for maintaining enamel integrity.
- Gentle toothbrushing is key for long-term dental health.
