Impact of different fluoride concentrations and pH of dentifrices on tooth erosion/abrasion in vitro

Background This in vitro study analysed the effect of different fluoride concentrations in acidic or neutral liquid dentifrices in protecting enamel and dentine from erosive and abrasive wear. Methods Bovine enamel and dentine specimens (n=132) were randomly allocated to 11 groups (each n=12): experimental liquid dentifrices with 550ppm F, 1100ppm F, 5000ppm F or 0ppm F/placebo (each at pH 4.5 and pH 7.0); and commercial dentifrices with 550ppm F (Colgate Baby, pH 7.0), 1100ppm F (Crest, pH 7.0) and 5000ppm F (Duraphat, pH 7.0). The specimens were subjected to erosion for 90seconds, 4 times/day, over 7days. Immediately after the first and last erosion, the specimens were brushed for 15seconds using one of the dentifrices. Tooth wear was measured profilometrically (m) and analysed by ANOVA (p<0.05). Results All fluoridated liquid dentifrices significantly reduced enamel wear compared to the placebo and commercial dentifrices. Only liquid dentifrices with 1100 and 5000ppm F significantly reduced dentine wear compared to placebo dentifrice. The pH had no effect, but the consistency had a significant impact on the effect of dentifrices. Conclusions Liquid dentifrices with high F concentration appear to be a good option to prevent tooth wear.