Effects of Various Remineralization Agents on Surface and Subsurface Enamel Microhardness Following Demineralization

Abstract

Abstract Objectives: The effects of different remineralization agents applied on enamel samples were evaluated by using surface and subsurface microhardness analysis. Materials&Methods: Sixty bovine incisor enamel samples were fabricated. After the initial microhardness values were measured, enamel samples are divided into 3 equal parts, and assigned as the treatment area (T), the adjacent area (A) and the control area (C) (covered with an acid-resistant varnish). Samples were subjected to pH cycle for 5-days, and then microhardness measurements were repeated. The specimens were randomly divided into 5 groups according to the fluoride-releasing materials applied, as follows: Group 1: BioMin F; Group 2: Colgate Triple Effect; Group 3: FCP COMPLEX; Group 4: Fluor Protector; Group 5: Artificial saliva (control). Following the applications, surface and subsurface measurements were performed. The data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc Tukey test. Results: BioMin F toothpaste provided the greatest increase in surface microhardness, followed by FCP COMPLEX, Colgate Triple Effect and Fluor Protector, respectively. Among the materials tested, BioMin F and Colgate toothpastes exhibited the highest increase in subsurface microhardness values, with FCP COMPLEX solution following closely in second place. Conclusions: BioMin F showed the best results in the surface microhardness assessment, while both toothpastes (BioMin F and Colgate) showed similarly positive results in the subsurface microhardness assessment. Clinical relevance: Remineralizing agents used in addition to fluoride may increase the effectiveness in remineralization of initial carious lesions.