Comparative Analysis of CPP–ACP, Tricalcium Phosphate, and Hydroxyapatite on Assessment of Dentinal Tubule Occlusion on Primary Enamel Using SEM: An In Vitro Study

BACKGROUND: Over the last few decades, fluoride in various forms has been proved to reduce caries and dentinal hypersensitivity in both the primary and permanent dentitions. Recently, newer materials containing calcium and phosphate ions, tricalcium phosphate, and hydroxyapatite has received much attention. AIM: The aim of the study was to compare CPP–ACP, tricalcium phosphate, and hydroxyapatite in relation to the assessment of dentine tubule occlusion on primary enamel using scanning electron microscope (SEM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty freshly extracted noncarious primary molars were randomly divided into 4 groups (I–IV) with 10 sections in each group—group I: negative control, group II: CPP–ACP, group III: tricalcium phosphate, group IV: hydroxyapatite. To assess tubule occlusion, twenty dentin sections of 2-mm thickness were obtained from the cervical third of sound primary molars. Each section was processed to simulate the hypersensitive dentin and the test agents were brushed over the sections with an electric toothbrush and observed under a SEM for calculation of the percentage of occluded tubules. RESULTS: Groups II and IV showed a greater percentage of tubule occlusion than group III. An intergroup comparison of tubule occlusion potential of groups II and IV was not significant. CONCLUSION: Hydroxyapatite showed significantly higher dentinal tubule occlusion when compared to CPP–ACP and tricalcium phosphate. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Shah R, Bajaj M. Comparative Analysis of CPP–ACP, Tricalcium Phosphate, and Hydroxyapatite on Assessment of Dentinal Tubule Occlusion on Primary Enamel Using SEM: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2019;12(5):371–374.