Simplified chemical method of demineralization in human dental enamel

Abstract

Introduction: Simple methods are required in the laboratory to simulate demineralizing early lesions in a controlled and reproducible, to contribute to research in dental remineralization. Objective: To perform an in vitro evaluation of a simple method of incipient demineralization of human dental enamel by means of clinical, radiographic and histological qualitative analysis. Methods: Twelve third molars from healthy human subjects were selected for demineralization in a racemic lactic acid solution. Samples were then distributed randomly: Group 1 (G1) (n= 6) lactic acid at pH 2,4 and Group 2 (G2) (n= 6) lactic acid at pH 5,4. Each group was then subdivided (n = 2) to evaluate the effect of the solutions to the three exposure times (t1=7 days, t2 =15 days, t3=30 days) at a constant temperature of 37° C. The evaluation of the demineralization was conducted with stereomicroscopes, digital x-rays apparatus using software for the digital analysis of images and polarization microscopy. An integration of the response indices and an ANOVA was formulated. Results: Visual, radiographic and histological findings showed that in the G1 to t1, t2 and t3, the demineralization was characterized by the extensive loss of enamel integrity. Visually, the G2 at t1 exhibited opacity and a loss of brightness, with preservation of the surface structure of the enamel. Conclusion: The lactic acid solution at a pH of 5,4 is effective in generating the incipient demineralization of human tooth enamel. Key words:

Keywords

• dental enamel
• lactic acid
• tooth demineralization
• in vitro techniques
• dental digital radiography
• polarization microscopy.