From Erosion to Remineralization: The Possible Role of Two Topic Home Devices Used as Combined Treatment

Abstract

Severe dental erosion could be one of the complications of gastroesophageal reflux disease and food disorders such as bulimia nervosa. The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the remineralization efficiency and the erosion prevention capability obtained by combining the use of Elmex Erosion Protection (Elm-EP) and GC Tooth Mousse (GC-TM) in cases of strongly eroded enamel surfaces. Twenty-four specimens of bovine tooth were superficially treated with hydrochloric acid to mimic severe erosion conditions. The specimens were divided into 3 groups accordingly to a different remineralizing treatment for 15 days: immersion in artificial remineralizing saliva, brushing with Elm-EP and brushing with Elm-EP in association with a daily application of GC-TM paste. After the remineralization procedures, the specimens were exposed to a treatment with acid. The effectiveness of the treatments were assessed by surface profilometric analysis and scanning electron microscopy at four different steps. Furthermore, the quantity of the Ca2+ lost during erosion was determined. The combined action of Elm-EP and GC-TM led to a 50% roughness decrease of critically eroded dental surfaces. The tandem use of Elmex Erosion Protection and GC Tooth Mousse resulted a promising protecting strategy for the prevention of the dental mineral loss.

Keywords

• erosion protection
• severe dental erosion
• remineralizing agents
• profilometric analysis
• scanning electron microscopy