Evaluation of the effects of different mouthrinses on dental remineralization.

BACKGROUND

Dental caries occurs with the release of organic acids from the fermentable carbohydrates metabolized by cariogenic microorganisms. Microbial, genetic, immunological, behavioral, and environmental factors play a role in the development and severity of dental caries.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible effects of different mouthwash solutions on dental remineralization.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This in vitro study compared the remineralization capacity of different mouthwash solutions applied topically to the enamel surface. A total of 50 tooth specimens were prepared from the buccal and lingual halves, with 10 teeth in each group: G1 (control); G2 (Listerine®); G3 (Sensodyne®); G4 (Oral B® Pro-Expert); and G5 (DentaSave® Zinc). Remineralization capacity was evaluated in all groups. The one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the paired samples t test were used for statistical analysis, with a p-value <0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in the calcium (Ca)/phosphorus (P) atomic percentage (at%) ratio between the demineralized and remineralized dentin (p = 0.001), and between the demineralized and remineralized enamel (p = 0.006). Similarly, there were significant differences in the at% of P (p = 0.017) and zinc (Zn) (p = 0.010) between the demineralized and remineralized dentin. There was a significant difference in the at% of P (p = 0.030) between the demineralized and remineralized enamel. The Zn at% in enamel was significantly higher after remineralization in G5 as compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The images of the demineralized enamel showed the usual keyhole prism appearance, with intact prism sheaths and negligible inter-prism porosity.

CONCLUSIONS

The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) findings seem to confirm the effectiveness of DentaSave Zinc for the remineralization of enamel lesions.