An In Vitro Analysis of Erosive and Cariogenic Potential of Commonly Prescribed Antiasthmatic and Antiepileptic Liquid Medications on Permanent Teeth: An SEM-EDX Study.

BACKGROUND

The commonest multifactorial disease affecting mankind is dental caries. Oral pediatric liquid medications (PLMs) are the best line of treatment for young children, as they are available in the form of syrups, suspensions, and solutions. Extended use of liquid medicines has a deleterious effect on dentition in chronic asthmatic patients, sensitive respiratory problems, and epileptic patients, along with frequent sudden conditions such as sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, tonsillitis, and otitis media, and has a deleterious effect on the dentition of young adults.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The study was performed in three phases on two antiasthmatic and two antiepileptic liquid medications. Phase I: cariogenic potential of the selected PLMs was assessed using endogenous pH determination, determination of total sugar, and Streptococcus mutans growth rate. Phase II: erosive capacity of the selected PLMs was assessed using determination of viscosity, titratable acidity, buffering properties, and total soluble solids content. Phase III: erosive capacity of selected liquid medications on permanent tooth surface was assessed by scanning electron microscope-electronic dispersion X-rays and microhardness.

RESULTS

Cariogenic and erosive potential was statistically significant in group B (antiasthmatic-omnacortil) and group C (antiepileptic-valparin).

CONCLUSION

Individually, it would be feasible to educate youngsters and their parents about the importance of brushing their pearly whites after every medicine they take. On the contrary, producing medicines for kids without fermentable carbohydrates at minimal expense would be a desirable health improvement strategy.

HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Ghosh R, Dhinsa K, Rai A, et al. An In Vitro Analysis of Erosive and Cariogenic Potential of Commonly Prescribed Antiasthmatic and Antiepileptic Liquid Medications on Permanent Teeth: An SEM-EDX Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(S-1):S40-S44.