In vitro observations on the use of latex particles to alleviate dentin sensitivity

Date
1991
DOI
Authors
Debaybo, Dina Samir
Version
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
The transmission of stimuli by fluid movement within exposed dentinal tubules is generally believed to be the basis of dentin sensitivity. This study evaluated the in vitro blockage of these tubules with positively (L-(NH3)+) and negatively (L-(COO)-; L-(SO4)=) charged polystyrene latex particles. Human molars were sectioned to obtain samples of dentin surfaces which were exposed to aqueous dispersions of latex particles at pH 4, 6, and 7. SEM photographs of the samples were evaluated for the total number of exposed dentinal tubules, the fraction of tubules containing particles, and the number of particles within tubules. Salt effects were also examined. Dentinal tubules ranged from 0.5 to 2.0 microns in diameter with surface population densities of 1.4 x 10[4] to 2.5 x 10[4] tubules/mm2. Positively charged latex particles at pH 4 provided optimal blockage of tubules. These results indicate that dentinal tubules can be blocked with positively charged latex particles of an appropriate size and that the application of these particles may be a feasible treatment for alleviating dentin hypersensitivity.
Description
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Thesis (MSD) --Boston University Henry Goldman School of Graduate Dentistry, 1991 (Pediatric Dentistry).
Includes bibliography: leaves 43-49.
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