Tribocorrosion of dental tissues: The role of mucin

Abstract Artificial saliva can benefit tooth degradation management; this study assesses the role of mucins in this process using a combination of techniques to assess wear and surface degradation. Different neutral and acidic artificial saliva solutions were investigated, focusing on the protective capability of mucins. Static immersion and reciprocating ball-on-flat tribometer tests were performed on bovine enamel samples. The calcium released into the test solutions was assessed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) and enamel surfaces were examined using Vertical Scanning Interferometry (VSI). The addition of mucins reduced the coefficient of friction and wear scar volumes for neutral pH solutions. In acidic conditions the addition of mucin did not affect the lubrication, however it significantly reduced the calcium release under tribological conditions.