Remineralization of Caries Lesions Extending into Dentin

Abstract

Remineralization is one aspect of the overall process of tooth decay. However, it is primarily studied in shallow lesions. The aim of this study was to explore whether caries lesions in enamel and extending into the dentin can be remineralized. A single-section model was developed for the longitudinal and non-destructive monitoring of changes in enamel and dentin. Lesions at least 200 microm into dentin were formed in undersaturated acetate buffers. Next, the lesions were divided into groups (three treatment and one control) and remineralized. The treatments were: weekly immersion in 1,000 ppm fluoride, single treatment with methanehydroxybisphosphonate, and a constant level of 1 ppm fluoride. De- and remineralization was assessed by transverse microradiography. Remineralization was observed in enamel, but also in dentin, indicating that, deep into dentin, the pores become supersaturated to apatite formation. Treatments affected remineralization only in the outer part of enamel. Both findings are explained by a relatively fast diffusion of mineral ions, with precipitation being rate-limiting. The results suggest that dentin remineralization, underneath enamel, can be achieved and could possibly be used in clinical treatment strategies.

Effect of Galla chinensis on the In Vitro Remineralization of Advanced Enamel Lesions

“…Relatively highly mineralized surface layer (ROI 1-2) was formed after demineralization in the fluoride treatment group. Previous studies indicated that fluoride could affect the mineral deposit in the outer enamel, but did not significantly affect precipitation of mineral in the inner enamel and dentine (ten Cate, 2001). The present experiment showed that advanced enamel lesions, with very low mineral contents, could still be remineralized under in vitro conditions.…”

Evaluation of dentin bonding performance and acid-base resistance of the interface of two-step self-etching adhesive systems

“…They speculated that due to the reduced etching potential of acidic monomers toward the base of hybrid layers, spaces containing products formed by dissolved calcium and phosphate ions during self-etching were created 33) . It has been widely accepted that fluoride could facilitate remineralization or prevent demineralization of the dental structure 34,35) . Fluoride releasing from restorative materials has been extensively researched for many years 6,35) .…”

Evaluation of Antibacterial and Fluoride-releasing Adhesive System on Dentin-Microtensile Bond Strength and Acid-base Challenge

“…This is because fluoride has been shown to exhibit anticariogenic activity by increasing enamel and dentin resistance to subsequent acid attack as well as inhibit carbohydrate metabolism in dental plaque. It has been widely accepted that fluoride could facilitate remineralization or prevent demineralization of the dental structure 10,12) . Currently, composite resins have been selected as the major direct restorative material in clinical dental practice.…”