EDX-Element Analysis of the In Vitro Effect of Fluoride Oral Hygiene Tablets on Artificial Caries Lesion Formation and Remineralization in Human Enamel

Aim of this in-vitro-study was to assess the remineralization potential of a tooth cleaning tablet with different fluoride content quantitatively using EDX analysis. Twenty three caries free impacted third molars were examined; enamel surfaces were wax coated leaving two 3x4mm windows for exposure to demineralization/remineralization cycles. The teeth were randomly assigned to 4 groups of 5 control and 6 experimental teeth each. Demineralization by standardized HEC-gel, pH 4.7 at 37°C for 72h, was alternated by rinsing in remineralization solution, pH 7.0 at 37°C for 72h, total challenge time 432h. The negative control group N was treated during remineralization cycles with saline; positive control group P was treated with remineralization solution; experimental group D1 was exposed to remineralization solution containing Denttabs(®)-tablets with 1450 ppm F; experimental group D2 was exposed to remineralization solution and Denttabs(®)-tablets with 4350 ppm F. Each tooth was cut into serial sections and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy with EDX element analysis for assessment of the different zones of the lesions in 3 representative sections. Statistical analysis was based on the AVOVA test for repeated measurements and post hoc Bonferroni adjustment. The results showed a significantly higher Ca and P content in the body of the lesion in both fluoride treated groups compared to the controls. It can be concluded that higher concentrations of NaF may be more effective in remineralization of early advanced caries lesions.