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Laboratory effects of desensitizing mouthwashes on tooth discoloration and surface roughness
Elif Ögüt1, Nazli G Kinoğlu1, Burcu Karaduman2
1Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey.
Purpose:
To evaluate the effects of four different mouthwashes, including three desensitizing formulations, one chlorhexidine-based solution, and artificial saliva as the control, on enamel discoloration and surface roughness.
Methods:
60 extracted human lower incisors were exposed to the solutions, and measurements were performed before and after exposure using a spectrophotometer (ΔE) and profilometer (Ra).
Results:
None of the tested solutions caused clinically perceptible discoloration (ΔE < 3.7) nor significant changes in the surface roughness (P> 0.05). Among the desensitizing solutions, the potassium nitrate-containing mouthwash exhibited the highest, albeit not clinically significant, changes in both color and roughness. However, no statistically significant differences were observed among the groups in terms of both ΔE and surface roughness values (P> 0.05).
Clinical Significance:
Desensitizing mouthwashes can be safely recommended for routine use in managing dentin hypersensitivity without causing visible discoloration or roughness alterations. However, clinicians should remain mindful of potential long-term effects and advise patients accordingly.
