Nano-Hydroxyapatite (nHAp) in the Remineralization of Early Dental Caries: A Scoping Review

Abstract

(1) Background: Nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) has been reported to have a remineralizing effect on early carious lesions. The objective of this scoping review was to analyze the remineralization potential of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp)-containing dentifrices, by mapping the existing literature. (2) Methods: This review was performed using the PRISMA-ScR Checklist, which is an extension of the PRISMA Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. In this study, the population, concept, and context (PCC) framework was used to find relevant papers published between 2010 and 2021. Nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) and dentifrices containing nHAp as one of the ingredients were the two main concepts of the research question. MeSH phrases, keywords, and other free terms relevant to nano-hydroxyapatite and dentifrices were used to search the literature databases. (3) Results: Preliminary searches yielded 59 studies; the title and abstract screening results excluded 11 studies. The remaining studies were thoroughly reviewed by two reviewers on the basis of the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Finally, 28 studies were included, and 20 studies were excluded. Most of the studies that were included reported that when nHAp was used alone, it had many different effects, such as remineralization, caries prevention, less demineralization, brighter teeth, less pain, and remineralization of enamel after orthodontic debonding. (4) Conclusions: Dentifrices that contain nHAp offer a variety of therapeutic and preventative effects. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to support the efficacy of nHAp dentifrices in primary teeth. Additional long-term investigations using standardized protocols are required to reach decisive conclusions about the effects of nHAp dentifrices on primary and permanent dentitions.