In vitro and in vivo anticalculus effects of a triclosan/copolymer system.

The effect of PVM/MA copolymer on hydroxyapatite crystal growth in vitro at 37 degrees C was evaluated. The copolymer provided a 50% inhibition of the growth rate at 35 ppm for 220 minutes. The polymer adsorbed to saliva-coated hydroxyapatite disks and the adsorption was time and concentration dependent. Under exaggerated in vitro conditions, the copolymer did not etch or damage enamel surfaces at pH 5.5 and 7.5. It was highly effective against calculus formation in rats when applied topically yielding a 54% reduction (P less than or equal to 0.01). In beagle dogs, it reduced calculus formation significantly (P = 0.06) over a period of 24 to 28 weeks when applied topically either as a rinse or toothpaste. Collectively, the data indicated that the copolymer was an effective anticalculus agent when applied topically, in the presence of triclosan.