Onset and progression of dental erosion in a mouse model
Brox, Julie Marie Haabeth; Tulek, Amela; Sehic, Amer; Mulic, Aida Gacic; Utheim, Tor Paaske; Khan, Qalbi
Peer reviewed, Journal article
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Date
2024Metadata
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Abstract
Objective: Purpose of this research was to examine the onset, progression and wear rates of dental erosion in an established mouse model.
Material and methods: Dental erosion in mice was experimentally induced, and the acidic effects of cola drink on their teeth after 2, 4 and 6-weeks were closely analysed by scanning electron microscopy. The tooth height and enamel or dentin loss were established.
Results: The dental erosion on the molars showed clear progression from 2 to 6 weeks. By the 2-week mark, a significant portion of enamel was already eroded, revealing the dentin on the lingual cusps. When adjusted for attritional wear, molars exposed to cola for 2 weeks showed a 35% drop in lingual tooth height compared to controls (533 μm vs. 818 μm). At 4 and 6 weeks, the cola-exposed group continued to display decreased lingual tooth heights by 40% (476 μm vs. 799 μm) and 43% (440 μm vs. 767 μm), respectively.
Conclusion: This study revealed significant acidic effects of cola drink on mouse molars as early as 2 weeks. These findings highlight the challenge of monitoring dental erosion clinically and underscore the importance of early preventive and intervention measures.