Title:  Asthma inhalers and subsurface enamel demineralisation: an in situ pilot study

Abstract:  Aim The purpose of this pilot study was to identify the subsurface enamel demineralising potential of two possible acidogenic lactose-based powders and their corresponding generic pump inhalers. Methods Ten healthy non-asthmatic adults participated in a 5-leg randomised crossover study including a 10% sucrose control. A twice-daily 400 µg dose of inhaler was applied in vitro to a demineralised enamel slab on the buccal flange of a mandibular removable appliance before in situ placement for 14 days each. Lesion parameters were determined using transverse microradiography and digitised image analysis. Results Minimal demineralisation occurred with sucrose, both pump and one powder inhaler. The remaining powder was associated with remineralisation (p = 0.29). Overall, mean lesion depth increased (p = 0.12). Conclusion Asthma inhalers failed to demonstrate a significant acidogenic/cariogenic effect.