Fluoride gum
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Fluoride Gum: Benefits and Efficacy in Dental Health
Fluoride Release and Salivary Concentration
Fluoride-containing chewing gum has been shown to release fluoride effectively into the saliva. Studies indicate that after chewing fluoride gum, the fluoride concentration in saliva increases significantly. For instance, after chewing for 10 minutes, the salivary fluoride concentration can rise from 0.05 to 11.7 parts per million (ppm) within 2 minutes and to 15.3 ppm within 5 minutes, before gradually decreasing. This elevated fluoride level in saliva can persist for up to 60 minutes, providing prolonged exposure to fluoride.
Remineralization and Acid Resistance
Fluoride gum has demonstrated significant benefits in remineralizing enamel and enhancing acid resistance. Research involving sugar-free gum containing fluoride extracted from green tea showed that such gum could significantly increase the fluoride concentration in remineralized enamel, leading to superior remineralization and acid resistance compared to placebo gum. Similarly, another study found that chewing gum containing both calcium and fluoride significantly improved the remineralization of white spot lesions (WSLs) and enhanced enamel hardness .
Impact on Dental Plaque and Caries Prevention
Repeated use of fluoride gum can influence the acidogenicity of dental plaque. A study showed that using fluoride gum eight times a day for seven days resulted in a less pronounced pH decrease in dental plaque after a sucrose rinse compared to placebo gum, indicating reduced acid production. Additionally, maternal use of fluoride-containing gum has been linked to lower caries prevalence in their children, suggesting a potential preventive effect on dental caries.
Fluoride Uptake and Safety
Fluoride gum not only aids in remineralization but also increases fluoride uptake in dental plaque. Chewing fluoride gum can raise salivary fluoride levels significantly, with a high correlation between saliva flow and fluoride elimination. Importantly, the use of fluoride gum has been deemed safe, with negligible effects on plasma fluoride levels even after chewing multiple sticks.
Conclusion
Fluoride-containing chewing gum offers multiple dental health benefits, including enhanced remineralization, increased acid resistance, and reduced acidogenicity of dental plaque. These effects are achieved through the effective release and sustained presence of fluoride in saliva, making fluoride gum a valuable tool in the prevention and management of dental caries. Regular use of fluoride gum, especially formulations combining fluoride with calcium, can significantly improve dental health outcomes.
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