Effects of high-fluoride dentifrice (5,000-ppm) on caries-related plaque and salivary variables

Objectives
The aim of the present study was to measure the effects of a 5,000-ppm F toothpaste on caries-related factors in dental plaque and saliva.

Materials and methods
A 6-week clinical trial was designed with a total of 34 participants, of which 26 completed the study. The participants were assessed on four visits, 2 weeks apart. Sampling of approximal fluid for fluoride analysis and approximal plaque for organic acid analysis was performed. Chair-side tests were performed to register the lactic acid production rate on the tongue 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
Six weeks’ use of 5,000-ppm fluoridated (F) toothpaste significantly increased the approximal fluid F concentration (p < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in lactic acid production rate on the tongue assessed by Clinpro™ (p < 0.05). This was accompanied by changes in interproximal plaque acidogenicity, including significant reductions in AUC5.7, AUC6.2 and maximum pH fall and an increase in minimum pH (p < 0.05). A significant increase in the salivary buffer capacity and a reduction in the salivary mutans streptococci were observed (p < 0.05).

Conclusion
The present study demonstrates the ability of 5,000-ppm F toothpaste to modify caries-related factors in dental plaque and saliva.

Clinical relevance
The 5,000-ppm F toothpaste could be regarded as a possible effective regimen against caries in the near future.