In situ evaluation of the remineralizing capacity of pit and fissure sealants containing amorphous calcium phosphate and/or fluoride

Abstract

Objective: This in situ study evaluated the remineralizing potential of pit and fissure sealants containing amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) and/or fluoride in artificially induced carious lesions on smooth enamel surfaces.

Material and methods: Ten volunteers who wore acrylic palatal devices were enrolled in this 5-day double-blind study and assigned to one of the following five groups: (I) demineralized enamel slab+Fluroshield (sealant with fluoride); (II) demineralized enamel slab+Aegis (sealant with ACP); (III) demineralized enamel slab+experimental sealant with fluoride (ESF); (IV) demineralized enamel slab+experimental sealant with fluoride/ACP (ACP-F); and (V) demineralized enamel slab (control). After the experimental period, the percentage of surface microhardness recovery (%SMHR) and the integrated loss of subsurface hardness (DeltaKHN) were evaluated. The concentrations of fluoride, calcium and phosphorus in enamel were also determined.

Results: The sealants containing ACP and/or fluoride presented a higher remineralizing capacity (%SMHR and DeltaKHN) than that of the control group. Aegis provided either more efficient or similar remineralization than the other sealants. The association between ACP and fluoride did not show a greater efficacy in the remineralization. F, Ca and P concentrations in enamel varied according to the group.

Conclusion: The pit and fissure sealants containing ACP were able to promote remineralization of artificially induced carious lesions on smooth enamel surfaces.