Effects of a Hydroxyapatite-based Mouth Gel on Calcium Content of Plaque

The aim of this pilot study is to analyze if a hydroxyapatite-containing mouth gel has an influence on the calcium content of plaque.

>= 20 subjects (7-11 years) use the hydroxyapatite-containing mouth gel for 3 days (3x per day); without using any other oral care product at this time. A dentist applies the gel on all teeth. At baseline and after 3 days plaque will be collected from buccal and labial surfaces (except surfaces with tartar). A "split-mouth" concept will be used: Subjects in group A: Baseline plaque collection: quadrant 1 and 4 Plaque collection after 3 days: quadrant 2 and 3 Subjects in group B: Baseline plaque collection: quadrant 2 and 3 Plaque collection after 3 days: quadrant 1 and 4 (The time between last application of the gel and plaque collection will be 1 h) The plaque will be dried and afterwards the calcium content of the plaque will be quantitively analyzed by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). For all subjects: Calcium contents of plaque at baseline and after 3 days application will be compared by statistical methods.

Inclusion Criteria: Girls and boys (7-11 years) Visible plaque >= 4 teeth Good overall health Exclusion Criteria: Allergic to one or more ingredients of the mouth gel Medication intake (e.g. antibiotics) Any other reason that, in the opinion of the investigator, disqualifies the subject from participating in the study

Shaw L, Murray JJ, Burchell CK, Best JS. Calcium and phosphorus content of plaque and saliva in relation to dental caries. Caries Res. 1983;17(6):543-8. doi: 10.1159/000260715. No abstract available.