Effect of Salvadora persica Extract (Miswak) on the Dentinal Tubules of Sound Root Dentin: Scanning Electron Microscope Study

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Root dentin is vulnerable to a higher risk of demineralization than coronal enamel. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of miswak extract on the dentinal tubules of sound root dentin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty bovine root dentin blocks, approximately 2 mm × 3 mm × 3 mm (width × length × depth) in dimensions, were prepared from freshly extracted sound bovine incisors. The sample was divided into two groups: control and miswak group. The control group had sound root dentin block and the miswak test group was treated with miswak extract 20% for 24 h. The two groups of all specimens were subjected to ultrasonication for 10 min. Scanning electron microscope images were analyzed for surface typography. RESULTS: Fifty percent of the control group had surface particles (SPs), while the other 50% had no SPs. For the dentinal tubules, all (100%) the control group had a mixture of opened and partially opened dentinal tubules. On the other hand, for the miswak group, all (100%) the sample had SPs and blocked dentinal tubules. CONCLUSION: Miswak showed total blocking of the dentinal tubules compared to the control group. This might indicate that miswak has a role in reducing dentinal hypersensitivity of exposed root dentin.