Evaluation and Comparison of Self-applied Remineralizing Agents Using Confocal Microscopy: An In Vitro Study

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: The study was conducted to assess and compare the remineralization ability of fluoride varnish, casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate fluoride (CPP-ACPF), bioactive glass-ceramic, and nanohydroxyapatite crystals using a confocal microscope. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty premolars and 80 deciduous central incisors were included in this study. Two windows of approximately 3 × 3 mm were created on the labial surface of the premolars and 2 × 2 mm on deciduous maxillary incisors. Artificial caries like lesions was created by demineralizing the sample windows. The teeth sections were then randomly assigned into four groups (n = 20). Specimens of the first group were once painted with fluoride varnish, while those in CPP-ACPF, bioactive glass-ceramic, and nanohydroxyapatite were brushed twice daily for 2 minutes each for 40 days, respectively. 150–200 μm longitudinal sections were obtained and were photographed under a confocal laser scanning microscope. They were quantified using a computerized imaging system for demineralization and later for remineralization. The recorded values were tabulated and analyzed using Fisher's test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and post hoc Bonferroni's test. RESULTS: All the materials used in the study showed remineralization potential at the end of 40 days in both permanent and deciduous teeth. The highest remineralization potential was observed in the fluoride varnish group followed by bioactive glass, CPP-ACFP, and nanohydroxyapatite in both permanent and deciduous teeth. In permanent teeth, the difference in the remineralization potential of fluoride varnish and bioactive glass was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The present study showed that self-applied bioactive glass has similar remineralization potential to fluoride varnish in permanent teeth. Therefore, bioactive glass can be used for the management of incipient caries lesions daily. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Goel T, Singhal A, Singh I, et al. Evaluation and Comparison of Self-applied Remineralizing Agents Using Confocal Microscopy: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2020;13(S-1):S34–S39.