Journal of Dental Research, Vol 61, 1130-1136, Copyright © 1982 by International & American Associations for Dental Research Online Journals
Human interdental plaque-pH data and rat caries tests: results with the same substances
A. R. Firestone
Interdental plaque-pH telemetry measures, in vivo, H-ion concentration at
the level of the enamel surface under an undisturbed layer of plaque. It is
better suited to test non- or hypo-acidogenic products than are rat caries
tests. These products can, with a very high probability, be considered non-
or hypocariogenic ("safe, or friendly, for teeth"), no matter how
frequently they are consumed. Plaque-pH telemetry is poorly suited for
judging the effectiveness of agents directed at enamel - e.g., topical
fluoride, remineralizing solutions, etc. - or agents which may have
long-term effects on plaque composition. Plaque-pH telemetry is able to
demonstrate the effects of different meal patterns and the form and texture
of foods on oral clearance and plaque pH.