A quantitative study of the effect of pumicing and etching on the remineralisation of enamel opacities

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of pumicing and acid etching on the remineralisation of enamel opacities using quantitative measurement methods.

Methods: Teeth with diffuse opacities were subjected to a treatment sequence of: (a) pumicing for 30-35 seconds (b) etch with 37.5% phosphoric acid for 2 minutes, (c) pumicing for 30-35 seconds and (d) etch for 1 minute, or served as controls. Both groups were then placed in a remineralising solution containing 1.5 mmol/L Ca2+ for 3 weeks. Mineral content changes were measured using contact microradiography and x-ray microtomography. In addition, the reflectivity of the opacities was monitored with infrared reflectance.

Result: The treatment sequence removed 34 +/- 4 microns of the surface enamel but no mineral loss was observed in the subsurface layer. The treatment sequence enhanced the formation of a new remineralised surface layer with a mean thickness of 22 +/- 3 microns. This new surface layer was less reflective.

Conclusion: Pumicing and acid etching can be used as a simple technique for the conservative treatment of enamel opacities.