In vitro and in vivo studies on triclosan/PVM/MA copolymer/NaF combination as an anti-plaque agent.

A combination of triclosan, copolymer of PVM/MA and NaF has been optimized in vitro and in vivo for plaque effect. Triclosan (2, 4, 4' trichloro-2'-hydroxydiphenyl ether), a non-cationic antibacterial, was compatible with anionic surfactant, NaF and PVM/MA copolymer as evaluated by in vitro antibacterial tests. The in vitro uptake of triclosan on the saliva-coated hydroxyapatite disks, extracted human teeth and oral buccal epithelial cells was enhanced two fold in the presence of PVM/MA copolymer when compared to the uptake in the absence of the copolymer. The combination consisting of 0.3% triclosan/2% PVM/MA copolymer/1100 ppm NaF was found to be highly effective on reducing smooth and fissure caries, and plaque extent compared to to 1100 ppm/NaF by itself in rats when applied topically. The combination also showed significantly more fluoride uptake and reduction in enamel solubility than 1100 ppm/NaF. The results of these studies indicated that this optimized combination was an effective antiplaque/anticaries agent in vitro and in vivo.