Gel Containing Catechin and Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Protecting Root Dentin Against Erosion: An In Situ Study

Abstract

Abstract Objective This study aimed to evaluate the in situ anti-erosive effect of gels containing epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) isolated and adsorbed on mesoporous silica nanoparticles (EGCG/MSN) on eroded dentin. Materials and Methods Eleven volunteers participated in this randomized, controlled, cross-over study, which consisted of 4 phases of 5 days. The participants wore an acrylic palatal device containing two dentin blocks treated with one of the gels: placebo (negative control), SnF2 (0.05% - positive control), EGCG (0.1%), and EGCG/MSN (0.093%). During each phase, the specimens were immersed in citric acid (0.05 M; pH 3.75) for 60 s, 4x/day, followed by treatment with the assigned gel for 60 s. The alterations were evaluated by measuring the percentage of surface hardness loss (%SHL) and through profilometry analysis (wear). Morphological changes were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The data were analyzed using ANOVA, followed by Tukey's post-test. Results %SHL did not show a significant difference among the groups (p = 0.067). Regarding surface wear, the mean results in micrometers were: placebo, 0.66 (± 0.38); EGCG, 0.57 (± 0.11); EGCG/MSN, 0.48 (± 0.05); and SnF2, 0.32 (± 0.08). A significant difference was observed only between the SnF2 group and the placebo and EGCG groups (p = 0.003 and p = 0.046, respectively). However, there was no difference between the SnF2 and EGCG/MSN groups (p = 0.306). Conclusion EGCG/MSN shows promise as a protective measure in reducing dentin wear under erosive conditions. Clinical Relevance: Gels containing EGCG adsorbed on mesoporous silica nanoparticles have a protective effect against dentin erosion.