In vitro Performance of a Pomegranate Dentifrice on Complete Dentures: A Step toward Natural Oral Care

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of brushing with an experimental pomegranate dentifrice (PD) on heat-polymerized acrylic resin specimens, comparing it with a commercial dentifrice (CD) not specifically designed for dentures and distilled water (DW). Place and Duration of Study: Research Laboratory of the Graduate Program in Dentistry at the Federal University of Ceará, located in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. Methodology: Thirty acrylic resin specimens (n = 10) underwent five cycles of 17,800 brush strokes, simulating 60 months of accumulated brushing. The specimens were assessed for roughness, surface microhardness, mass loss, and color stability initially (T0) and after each cycle (T1: 12 months; T2: 36 months; T3: 60 months). The data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA, followed by the Bonferroni post-test. Results: Intergroup comparisons revealed no significant differences for the assessed parameters. However, intragroup analysis indicated a significant increase in microhardness for the PD group (P = 0.01) and heightened surface roughness in the CD group (P < 0.01). Overall, the results suggest that this experimental pomegranate-based dentifrice is a viable option for brushing complete dentures without compromising their structural integrity, representing a promising candidate for future denture cleaning protocols. Conclusion: The pomegranate dentifrice neither adversely affected surface roughness nor caused significant changes in mass or color of the acrylic resin. As such, it shows potential as a natural alternative to conventional denture cleansers, although further studies are needed to assess its biofilm removal efficacy and confirm its fungicidal effects.