Methods: A 6-week clinical trial was designed with a total of 34 participants, out of which 26 completed the study. Participants were assessed at four consecutive two-week apart visits. Clinical sampling of approximal fluid for fluoride analysis and approximal plaque for organic acid analysis was performed. Chair-side tests were performed to register the rate of production of lactic acid using Clinpro™ Cario L-Pop™, approximal plaque pH using the pH “strip method”, and salivary buffer capacity and counts of cariogenic microorganisms using CRT Buffer® and CRT Bacteria®.
Results: The 6 weeks use of 5000 ppm fluoridated toothpaste significantly increased the approximal fluid F concentration (p < 0.05). This was accompanied by a change in plaque acidogenicity: reductions in AUC5.7, AUC6.2and maximum pH fall, and increase in minimum pH (p < 0.05). A significant increase in the salivary buffer capacity and reduction in the mutans streptococci counts were observed (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: To conclude, the present study demonstrates the ability of 5000 ppm F toothpaste to reduce the cariogenic potential of dental plaque and saliva.