The effect of a modified fluoride toothpaste technique on buccal enamel caries in adults with high caries prevalence: a 2-year clinical trial

Comparison of interproximal delivery and flow characteristics by dentifrice dilution and application of prepared toothpaste delivery technique

In home care, the toothpaste technique, which can enhance the caries-preventive effect without changing the amount of dentifrice and fluoride ion concentration, is of great significance. This study aimed to construct a model and experimental system that reproduces the interdental part and to clarify the relationship between the change in dentifrice viscosity due to dilution and washout in the high-risk approximal area of caries. Additionally, the effectiveness of the toothpaste technique and appropriate devices for delivering dentifrice to the interdental area at a low dilution were investigated. Diluted toothpaste samples were prepared (: ×1.00, ×1.25, ×1.50, ×1.75, ×2.00, ×3.00, and ×4.00). An acrylic interproximal model was created for this experiment. The flow characteristics and viscosity by dentifrice dilution were measured. In the case of low dilution of 57% (1.75×) or more, it was shown that the dentifrice in the high-risk area may be washed out early because of the decrease in viscosity, and the caries-preventive effect may be reduced. It was also suggested that to keep the dentifrice in the interdental area for 120 s at the end of brushing, a dilution must be devised to a concentration of at least 50% (2.00×). The prepared toothpaste delivery (PTD) method of delivering dentifrice to the interdental area while maintaining it at a low dilution is an effective toothpaste technique in terms of dentifrice dilution and viscosity. The use of finger brushes in the PTD method could increase the efficiency of dentifrice delivery.