Organic Polymeric Polyphosphonates as Potential Preventive Agents of Dental Caries : In Vitro Experiments

Abstract

Organic polymeric polyphosphonates adsorb on enamel surfaces in the form of a monolayer and inhibit calcium and fluoride ion transport but not that of phosphate ions. The polymers investigated include phosphonated polyethylene, polyvinylphosphonate, and polyvinylbenzylphosphonate. The adsorption of proteins on enamel, as exemplified by human serum albumin, is diminished and the adsorbed protein is more readily desorbed from surfaces with polymeric polyphosphonates. These jendings may offer an explanation for the anticariogenic effect of polymeric polyphosphonates.