Effect of Various Remineralization Agents on Incipient Enamel Caries In-Vitro

Objectives: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the potential of various remineralizing agents to remineralize artificial caries-like lesions on human enamel.
Methods: Sixty human enamel samples with artificial caries lesions were randomly assigned to each of five groups (n=12) including: 1) Enamel Pro® Varnish (5% sodium fluoride-amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP)); 2) Clinpro™ White Varnish (5% sodium fluoride-tricalcium phosphate (TCP)); 3) Remin Pro (1450 ppm F-hydroxyapatite); 4) R.O.C.S. Remineralizing Gel (calcium, phosphate, magnesium, xylitol); 5) Negative control (distilled deionized water). All enamel samples were painted with acid resistant nail varnish exposing a window of 2x2 mm on the center. The teeth were demineralized by immersion in the demineralization solution at 37°C for 16 hours. The laser florescent device was used to evaluate the presence of demineralization. The test samples were remineralized by once daily application of tested remineralizing agents and then stored in artificial saliva, and incubated at 37°C for 14 days. The negative control samples were left in distilled deionized water during the test period. Degree of remineralization was further assessed with Raman spectroscopy.
Results: Significantly higher phosphate content within the remineralization groups compared to the negative control group was observed (p<0.05). Group 4 showed highest remineralization whereas Group 1 had lowest. There was statistically significant difference between Group 4 and Groups 1 and 2 (p<0.05).
Conclusions: All remineralization agents were found effective for treating incipient enamel caries regardless of the fluoride content. Calcium and phosphate containing remineralizing agents might be preferred for enhancing remineralization of white spot lesions.