Evaluation of Change in Microhardness by Application of MI Varnish on Primary Tooth Enamel, Affected by Use of Frequently Prescribed Paediatric Syrups: An In Vitro Study

Introduction Dental erosion is considered as an irreversible progressive loss of tooth structure due to chemical dissolution by acids not of bacterial origin. Frequent intake of syrups can be an effective factor in tooth erosion when prescribed for illnesses. In the acidic environment, MI Varnish releases calcium, phosphate and fluoride from the covering layer and the teeth can be prevented from such acidic attacks from the erosive content of the syrups. Aim To evaluate change in microhardness by application of MI Varnish on primary tooth enamel, affected by use of frequently prescribed paediatric syrups. Method The effects of three paediatric syrups (Ibugesic Plus, Novamox, Becozinc H) and distilled water (control group) with different ingredients on primary tooth enamel were evaluated. Immersion cycles were applied three times a day for one minute. The measurements of the samples prepared were taken on 0 (baseline), third, fifthand seventh day. Microhardness was measured using a Vickers hardness tester. Then, those samples were coated with MI Varnish, and changes in microhardness were evaluated using the Vickers hardness tester after one week (14th day). The pH, titratable acidity and buffer capacity of the syrups were also evaluated. Results There was a significant decrease in microhardness in all the syrups (p < 0.001) on days 3, 5, 7 and 14. Novamox syrup and distilled water (control group) were the least erosive on the primary tooth enamel and Becozinc H syrup being the most erosive on primary tooth enamel was seen. MI Varnish remineralized the enamel but not with any significant difference. Conclusion In our findings, Novamox syrup showed the least erosion on primary tooth enamel compare to other syrups. Enamel microhardness was significantly reduced on all days after immersion in all syrups. Application of MI Varnish to enamel resisted erosion but was not significant. Paedodontists should be aware of the erosive potential of all the frequently prescribed syrups and stress on compliance with oral hygiene measures and application of varnishes releasing fluoride, calcium and phosphate on the tooth.