Relative susceptibility of deciduous and permanent dental hard tissues to erosion by a low pH fruit drink in vitro

Objectives: The objectives of this study were two-fold: (1) to determine (by surfometry) loss of deciduous and permanent enamel and dentine following 15 days' exposure to a single low pH orange drink; and (2) to determine (by surfometry) loss of deciduous and permanent enamel and dentine following exposure to the product 2 versus 4 times per day for 15 days. Methods: This in vitro study employed the validated methodology described by West and co-workers [Journal of Dentistry, 1998;26:329–335.] Results: In all four tissues, erosion was progressive over time, though this pattern was more linear in enamel than in dentine. In general, erosion of enamel was greater in the deciduous tissue, while erosion of dentine was greater in the permanent tissue. However, these differences were rarely of statistical significance. Increasing frequency of exposure resulted in a non-proportional increase in tissue loss. Conclusions: Differences in susceptibility of deciduous and permanent tissues to erosion by a low pH drink in vitro appear to exist, though these may not be of statistical significance. Care may be indicated in the delivery of dietary advice, since reduced frequency of exposure to a low pH drink does not appear to result in a proportional reduction in tissue loss.