Abstract
Different types of dentifrices with the whitening proposal have been launched in the market. However, often the characteristics disclosed by the manufacturers are not compatible with the reality of the products.
Objectives: To characterize activated charcoal-based dentifrices using infrared spectroscopy and thermal analysis, thermogravimetric analysis and derived thermogravimetry, seeking a solid basis to understand the implications of their components in their characteristics and performance.
Material and Methods: Seven different brands of activated charcoal-based dentifrices were analyzed besides two conventional dentifrices (control), with an operator blinded to the sample brand using triplicate samples, via infrared spectroscopy in a spectrophotometer with Fourier transform. The range of the spectra was comprised between 700 and 4000 cm-1, using 4 cm-1 resolution, with a number of accumulations of 32 scans per spectrum. The samples were also submitted to thermal analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, derived thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry in air atmosphere, between room temperature and 900° C, at the heating rate of 10° C/min.
Results: The study showed that all dentifrices in the form of paste or gel present inorganic abrasives in their formulation. Dentifrices in the form of powder are almost entirely composed of carbonaceous components, but not always compatible with AC. Twin Lotus Herbaliste dentifrices, My Magic Mud Bleaching, Groomarang Teeth Whitening Powder and Carvvo, did not present fluoride in their composition.
Conclusions: Activated charcoal dentifrices in paste or gel form have equivalent or higher abrasiveness than conventional dentifrices, thus, associated with mechanical stress at the enamel-cement junction may contribute to the development of non-carious cervical lesions. Carvvo dentifrice powder suggested lower adsorption power and higher concentration of inorganic substances than Groomarang. It is proposed to carry out laboratory and clinical research to deepen the knowledge about the activated charcoal dentifrices.