The erosive potential of citric acid supplemented by different minerals

Objectives: One approach to decrease the erosive potential of acidic beverages might be the supplementation of minerals. Thus, this in vitro study evaluated the effect of different minerals supplemented alone or in combination to 1% citric acid (pH 2.5) on dental erosion. Methods: Ninety bovine enamel samples (4x4mm) were randomly allocated to nine groups: G1-pure 1% citric acid solution (control); G2- with 1 mM Ca; G3- with 0.047 mM F; G4- with 1 mM Fe; G5- with 1 mM P; G6- with 1 mM Ca and 0.047 mM F; G7-with 1 mM Ca and 1 mM P; G8- with 1 mM Fe and 0.047 mM F; and G9- with 1 mM Ca, 1 mM P, 0.047 mM F and 1.0 mM Fe. The samples were submitted to 6 pH-cycles, each consisting of immersion in pure or modified 1% citric acid (1 min) followed by storage in artificial saliva (59 min). Enamel wear was assessed by profilometry. Data were tested using ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p<0.05). Results: Enamel loss (mean ± S.D.) amounted between 0.87±0.30 and 1.74±0.74 mm, but did not significantly differ among the groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: The modification of 1% citric acid with different minerals did not have a protective effect on enamel erosion. Supported by FAPESP (Proc no 06/04587-2; 05/54203-3 and 05/04017-9).