Comparative analysis of the remineralization potential of CPP–ACP with Fluoride, Tri-Calcium Phosphate and Nano Hydroxyapatite using SEM/EDX – An in vitro study

BACKGROUND: In recent years, the non-invasive management of non cavitated caries lesions using remineralization systems to repair the enamel have received more attention from the scientific community. Aim: To quantitatively evaluate the remineralization potential of Casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate-fluoride(CPP-ACPF), Tri-calcium phosphate(TCP) & Nano-hydroxyapatite(nHAP) using Scanning Electron Microscopy(SEM) and Energy dispersive X-ray Analysis(EDX). MATERIAL AND METHODS: 40 enamel specimens were prepared, and immersed in demineralising solution at a pH of 4.4 for 96 hours at 37°C, to induce artificial carious lesions. Remineralization was carried out for a period of 30 days using CPP-ACPF, TCP, nHAP. The specimens were evaluated for calcium and phosphorus content using SEM-EDX. RESULTS: The Ca/P mass % after remineralization was significantly higher with CPP-ACP-F and TCP-F followed by nHAP. CONCLUSIONS: CPP-ACP-F and TCP can promote significant remineralization of incipient carious lesions. These are excellent delivery vehicles available in a slow release amorphous form to localize calcium, phosphate and fluoride at the tooth surface. Key words:Remineralization, in vitro; CPP-ACP fluoride, Nano-hydroxyapatite, Tri-calcium phosphate, SEM/ EDX.