The Effects of Plasma and Salivary Constituents on Dentin Permeability

The experiments described in this report were designed to determine the possible influence of plasma and salivary constituents on dentin permeability, in vitro. The results indicate that plasma, serum, and whole (mixed) saliva are all capable of causing immediate reductions in dentin permeability. Individual plasma protein fractions and several different types of bacteria were also effective in reducing the ease with which fluid can move across dentin. These observations may provide a mechanism for the “spontaneous” reductions in dentin sensitivity seen by clinicians following periodontal therapy.