Evaluation of the potential effect of a chewing gum containing experimental Glass Ionomer Cement

The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential effect of a chewing gum containing experimental Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) in preventing caries. METHODOLOGY: fifteen children / adolescents aged between 06 and 19 years old in need of treatment and prevention of dental caries were selected. After formal agreement to take part in the research, the participants were divided randomly into three groups: Group A: experimental gum; Group B: neutral gum (placebo); Group C: conventional noninvasive sealing. To assess the potential preventive effect on caries, repeated clinical assessments were carried out, as well as a collection of stimulated saliva for analysis of pH, flow, buffering capacity and fluoride concentration. In order to verify the presence of GIC in the areas of pits and fissures, inspections on the occlusal surfaces of molars and / or premolars were conduced by thorough clinical examination, photographic documentation with conventional light, fluorescent light (Quantitative Light Fluorescence) and scanning electron microscopy, using replicas with addition silicone. Additionally, volunteers and researchs staff were submitted to extensive questionnaires, aiming to evaluate the acceptance of chewing gum as a vehicle for therapeutic purposes. All analyses were conducted by independent researchers (blind review). RESULTS: neither clinical and photographic assessments, nor analyses of replicas in scanning electron microscopy showed any kind of sealing pits and fissures of molars and / or premolars. During the specified period, any kind of remineralization was identified with the use of fluorescent light. Nevertheless, laboratory results showed favorable signs in the process of remineralization of dental tissues. Nonparametric statistical test Kruskal-Wallis indicated a significant increase in flow and buffering capacity of saliva after the use of chewing gum, and a significant increase in salivary fluoride concentration for groups A and C (p<0.05). As a general rule, groups A and B showed good responsiveness. CONCLUSION: the results showed significant evidence that gums containing GIC present a significant remineralizing potential. This attribute implies the realization of further researches making use of this vehicle for fluoride release, especially if we consider its commercial appeal, the average age of regular users, the frequency and mean duration of a chewing gum in the oral cavity. Works in which the subjects have a higher frequency of use (and not just a single instance of use), a longer observation time (longitudinal study), in different concentrations and presentations (different types of fluoride), demonstrate that the use of chewing gum as a vehicle for fluoride release into the oral cavity is a promising alternative for the prevention of tooth decay in a potential group of patients/consumers.