Pulpal Remineralisation of Artificial Residual Caries Lesions in vitro

Abstract

We assessed pulpal remineralisation of caries lesions in vitro. On the coronal aspect of human dentin discs (n = 70), artificial lesions [mineral loss ΔZ (mean ± SD) = 3,060 ± 604 vol% × µm] were induced, covered and pulpal surfaces exposed to pulpal fluid, remineralisation medium or water at pressures of 0, 1.47 or 2.94 kPa for 3 months. Mineral loss differences were assessed using transversal microradiography. No significant mineral gain occurred at 0 kPa and in samples exposed to water. At 1.47 and 2.94 kPa, pulpal and remineralisation fluid induced significant mineral gain [ΔΔZ = 1,317 (25th/75th percentiles: 735/1,541) vol% × µm; p < 0.001]. Pressure and fluid composition determined pulpal remineralisation in vitro.