Topical Effect of Cashew Gum in Preventing Dentin Erosion

Objectives: Cashew tree gum is a natural polymer obtained from the exudate of the stem of Anacardium occidentale, and there is evidence that it could act as a protector for tissues exposed to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Objective: The aim of the present in vitro study is to evaluate the protective effect of cashew gum extract on dentin subjected to erosive cycles with pepsin using microhardness, surface roughness and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Methods: Methodology: Human molars were selected and prepared to expose the middle dentin and allow initial measurement of surface roughness (Ra) and knoop microhardness (HK). The samples were standardized, randomized, and subjected to erosive challenge with pepsin, concomitantly with the following preventive treatment (n=5): FV- Fluoridated Varnish (Enamelast), CG - Cashew Gum, FCG - Fluoridated Cashew Gum and C - (control) water-soluble gel. Subsequently, after the erosion cycles and treatments, new measurements of Ra, HK and SEM were carried out. The ANOVA, Tukey and repeated samples T-tests were used.
Results: Results: FV and CG prevented changes in Ra, while FCG reduced dentin Ra. The FV, CG and FCG groups prevented the reduction of HK (p > 0.05) compared to C. SEM revealed that VF, CG and GCF showed partial obliteration of dentinal tubules, while C showed greater tubular opening.
Conclusions: Conclusion: Conventional or fluoridated Cashew Gum can be potential auxiliary strategies in preventing erosion of dentin subjected to erosive cycles (pepsin).