Infl uence exerted by a xylitol and fl uoride based mouthwash on the in vitro enamel remineralization of primary teeth

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to assess the effectiveness on primary teeth of a fluoride and xylitol based mouthwash. 40 caries-free teeth were used. 35% phosphoric acid was applied during 20 seconds. Teeth were then immersed in the mouthwash for 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 days. 150-250μm longitudinal slices were taken of each sample. Re-mineralization was assessed according to bi-refringence observed after applying Thoulet solution (1.47 IR). Assessment was conducted under polarized light in a photomicroscope. At 15 days, a mean of 0.444 (± 0.527) was observed. After 30 days the observed mean was 0.778 (± 0.441). At 45 days, observed mean was 1.444 (± 0.527), and at 60 days, observed mean was 1.47 (± 0.483). Variance analysis established statistically signifi cant differences among groups (p < 0.001) as well as when comparisons among groups were established (p < 0.05). After conducting the aforementioned tests it could be concluded that the employed mouthwash exerted a slight re-mineralizing effect upon the enamel of treated teeth.