Quantitative Evaluation of Demineralizing Effects of Citrus Fruit Juices on Human Enamel- An In-Vitro Study

Abstract

Background: Excessive consumption of citrus fruits apparently results in destructive effects on the teeth which cause perplexing problems. Patients with loss of tooth surface due to attrition, abrasion and erosion have been increasingly seeking for help. Attention has been drawn to the effect of erosion on dental enamel due to excessive intake of fruit juices.

Materials & Methods: Sample of one hundred extracted adult human central incisors was used to estimate the demineralizing effect of lemon and orange fruit juices on human enamel. Levels of calcium and phosphorus were evaluated. The pH of fruit juice, weight of the tooth before and after the observation period, quantitative estimation of calcium and phosphorus in the fruit juices were estimate. Gross changes on the enamel were studied and the results tabulated.

Results: There is a gradual and significant loss of weight of the tooth due to demineralization as the period observation increases. The rate of demineralization is rapid in the first 30 minutes in both orange and lemon juices. Statistical analysis suggested that lemon and orange juice have definite demineralizing effect on human enamel at various intervals

Conclusion: Human enamel has the tendency to demineralize in the presence of lemon as well as orange juice. Overall the lemon juice has marked demineralizing effect on human enamel as compared to orange juice.