Assessment of Microhardness of Enamel Carious Like Lesions After Treatment with Nova Min, Bio Min and Remin Pro Containing Toothpastes: An in Vitro Study

The initial stage of dental caries is known as incipient lesions and if the process is not interrupted here, they might progress from demineralisation to non caviatated lesions and finally to cavitated lesions. Nova Min is reactive when exposed to body fluidsrelease calcium, sodium and phosphate ions. Bio Min contains calcium and phosphate but also has fluoride within the glass rather than assoluble addition;this allows longer term delivery of fluoride. Remin Pro contains calciumand phosphate in the hydroxyapatite form and also includes fluoride and xylitol. These agents help in remineralisation of enamel.

A sample of 21 non-carious premolar teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons were used for the study. Surface microhardness value was obtained at baseline, post demineralisation and post treatment using Vickers hardness test. All the teeth were first demineralised and then the test agents were applied for 3 minutues daily for 15 days. The samples were then placed in demineralising and remineralising agents for 1 week followed by assessing the increase in surface microhardness.

The mean difference in Vickers hardness value at baseline and Post treatment was found to be highest for Remin Pro group-59.5, followed by Bio Min group-32.5 and the least increment was found in Nova Min group-26.5.

The microhardness of artificial carious like lesions increased significantly with Nova Min, Bio Min and Remin Pro containing toothpastes. However, Remin Pro group was found to be more effective as compared to Bio Min and Nova Min.