Demineralization Process Research Articles

Study on bionic mineralization of dentin using gallic acid as a linker for calcium phosphate nanocluster formation and collagen modification

Dentin hypersensitivity and dental caries are prevalent symptoms and diseases in the oral cavity that markedly affect quality of life. The etiology of these conditions is directly or indirectly associated with the process of dentin demineralization and exposure. It is therefore imperative to identify an effective method for mineralizing demineralized dentin and sealing exposed dentin tubules. This study examines the potential of gallic acid, a polyphenol with a strong affinity for type I collagen, as a building block for calcium phosphate nanoclusters, with varying ratios of gallic acid to calcium. The objective is to utilize gallic acid as a linker to facilitate the docking, deposition, and mineralization of calcium phosphate nanoclusters and type I collagen. The study revealed that when the ratio of calcium to gallic acid was 0.05, calcium phosphate nanoclusters with an approximate particle size of 11.62 nm were formed. The nanoclusters were observed to effectively mineralize the intrafibrillar and interfibrillar spaces of type I collagen fibers, as well as the dentin itself. Following the mineralization treatment, the mechanical properties of the demineralized dentin were restored, and the depth of dentin tubule occlusion of 46.84 ± 12.83 μm, significantly reducing the permeability of dentin. This strategy demonstrates potential for clinical applications in the restoration of demineralized dentin and the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity.

Effect of Prophylactic Treatments on Demineralized Dental Enamel

Although professional prophylaxis is beneficial in controlling dental biofilm, its effects on tooth surfaces with white spot lesions are still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to evaluate, in vitro, the effect of different methods used in dental prophylaxis on the mineral content of demineralized enamel surfaces, using quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF). Extracted sound premolars were used (n=40). The sample was made up of 4 groups: G1 - Robinson brush and pumice stone; G2 - Robinson brush and prophylactic paste; G3 - Rubber and pumice bowl; G4 - Rubber cup and prophylactic paste. The evaluations were carried out at 3 levels: with the tooth healthy, immediately after the demineralization process and after application of the proposed treatments. The primary variable analyzed was the mineral content of the enamel, quantified using QLF. The data did not meet the assumptions for parametric tests, so the Friedman variance test was applied using version 5.0 of the BioEstat program. The significance level adopted was 5%. In Group I, a statistically significant difference (p<0.001) was observed between the mineral content of the sound tooth and after demineralization, indicating a white spot formation, but no significant changes (p=0.082) post-treatment with a Robinson brush and pumice stone. Group II showed similar results. Group III exhibited significant changes (p<0.001) post-demineralization and improvement (p<0.001) with a rubber cup and pumice stone. Group IV also showed significant demineralization (p<0.001) and partial remineralization (p<0.001) with a rubber cup and prophylactic paste, indicating that these treatments can improve mineral content in demineralized enamel. In conclusion, treatments using a rubber cup with pumice stone or prophylactic paste resulted in partial remineralization of demineralized enamel, while treatments using a Robinson brush did not cause significant changes in mineral content.

Shear bond strength evaluation of bioactive restorative materials on pretreated carious dentin-influence on silver diamine fluoride, potassium iodide, and glutathione

Background: Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) has gained popularity for its caries-arresting properties, yet its tendency to cause esthetic concerns due to black-staining limits its widespread acceptance. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the shear bond strength of Activa BioActive and Giomer restorative material with different protocols of SDF pretreatment on carious dentin. Materials and Methods: Ninety-two extracted teeth were decoronated at the cementoenamel junction, sectioned 1 mm into dentin, mounted in acrylic resin and randomly divided into four (n = 8) control and six (n = 10) experimental groups. Seventy-six samples underwent demineralization process for a period of 14 days for artificial carious dentin (ACD) formation. The samples categorized based on the dentin substrate (sound or ACD) were subjected to various SDF pretreatment protocols, i.e., only SDF, SDF with potassium iodide (KI), and SDF with glutathione (GSH). Further, bioactive restorative materials, i.e., Activa BioActive and Giomer (Beautifil II), were placed on it, and the samples were subjected to shear bond strength testing. Statistical Analysis: Independent t-test was run to analyze the values obtained. Results: Giomer exhibited better mean bond strength with SDF, SDF + KI, and SDF + GSH (6.56, 4.67, and 3.34 mega-pascals [MPa], respectively) compared to Activa BioActive (3.42, 3.27, and 2.96 MPa, respectively). Conclusion: This study contributes to understanding the interplay between SDF application protocols, esthetic concerns, and the adhesive properties of bioactive restorative materials. Giomer exhibited enhanced bond strength after SDF application, unlike Activa BioActive. In addition, incorporation of KI or GSH adversely affected the bond strength of both the restorative materials, underscoring the critical need for cautious clinical application. Clinical Relevance: This study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate dentin pretreatment agents to maximize the bond strength of bioactive restorative materials with carious dentin. SDF application significantly enhanced the bond strength of Giomer with carious dentin compared to Activa BioActive, thus, making it a good choice for restoring nonesthetic areas. In addition, the application of KI or GSH to mitigate discoloration of carious dentin negatively affected the bond strength of both, Activa BioActive and Giomer. Thus, the clinicians should weigh the benefits of SDF against potential bond strength reductions when using KI or GSH, especially for esthetic restorations.

Optimization of the demineralization process of black soldier fly (Hemertia illucens) pupa shell maggot chitosan and the physicochemical characteristics

Chitosan is a derivative compound of chitin that has undergone deacetylation. Chitosan has three stages of the manufacturing process, including demineralization, deproteinization, and deacetylation. Chitin is also found in the black soldier fly maggot pupae, but maggot pupae contain high minerals content that can affect the purity of the resulting chitosan. Therefore, demineralization treatment is necessary to remove minerals from maggot pupae shells. This study aims to optimize the demineralization process by finding the best type of acid solvent, the best incubation time, and combination treatments. The black soldier fly (BSF) maggot pupa shell was soaked using various formic acid, hydrochloric acid, and nitric acid solutions with incubation times of 60, 120, and 180 minutes. Chitosan characterization was carried out following SNI 7949:2022, including water content, ash content, nitrogen content, pH, deacetylation degree, characterization of functional groups with FT-IR, and as an antimicrobial comparison is formalin. The best demineralization treatment was obtained at 0.5 M nitric acid treatment with an incubation time of 120 minutes. The characterization of chitosan produced 7.81% water content, 0.56% ash content, 4.73% nitrogen content, pH 7.39, and 75.14% deacetylation degree. Characterization of groups on chitosan with FT-IR resulted in the absorption of O-H and N-H groups 3484 cm-1 and 3152 cm-1; C-H 2877 cm-1; and C=O 1653 cm-1. The inhibitory power against E. coli of the BSF maggot pupa shells chitosan is better compared to chitosan standard but not better than formalin.

Biofilm modulation and demineralization reduction after treatment with a new toothpaste formulation containing fluoride, casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate, and sodium trimetaphosphate: In situ study

ObjectiveThis in situ study aimed to evaluate a new toothpaste formulation containing fluoride (F), casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) and sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP) on the process of dental demineralization and biofilm composition. MethodsThis crossover double-blind study consisted of five phases, in which 10 volunteers wore intraoral appliances containing four bovine enamel specimens. The cariogenic challenge was performed using 30 % sucrose solution. Blocks were treated 3 ×/day with the following toothpastes: 1) Placebo (No F-TMP-CPP-ACP), 2) 1100 ppm F (1100F), 3) 1100F + 3 %TMP (1100F-TMP), 4) 1100F + 10 %CPP-ACP (1100F-CPP-ACP) and 5) 1100F-CPP-ACP-TMP. After 7 days, the percentage loss of surface hardness (%SH), integrated loss of subsurface hardness (ΔKHN), F, calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) concentration in the enamel was determined. The concentration of F, Ca, P and insoluble extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) in the biofilm were analyzed. ResultsThe addition of CPP-ACP-TMP to 1100F reduced %SH by 42 % and 39 % when compared to the 1100F and 1100F-CPP-ACP (p < 0.001); in addition, to a reduction in lesion body (ΔKHN) by 36 % for the same treatments. The treatment with 1100F-CPP-ACP-TMP led to a significant increase in the concentration of F, P and Ca in the enamel and biofilm, and reduced the concentration of EPS (p < 0.001). SignificanceToothpaste formulation containing 1100F-CPP-ACP-TMP prevented the reduction of enamel hardness and significantly influenced the ionic biochemical composition and insoluble extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) in biofilm formed in situ. These results are promising and provide valuable insights for the design of further clinical trials.

Remineralization Effect of Bioactive Glass With and Without Fluoride and Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate (CPP-ACP) on Artificial Dentine Caries: An In Vitro Study.

Background/objectives Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) is a common dental condition marked by transient, sharp pain arising from dentinal exposure. Bioactive materials are capable of remineralization. This study aims to explore the remineralization effect of bioactive glass (BAG) with and without fluoride and casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), using dentine discs as the test substrate. Materials and methods In this in vitro experimental study, 28 dentine discs were prepared from premolar teeth. Artificial caries were induced by subjecting the dentine discs to demineralization in acid for 72 hours. After demineralization, the discs were treated with various remineralizing dentifrices to evaluate their effects. The dentine discs (n=28) were divided into four groups: group 1 = BioMin (BioMin Technologies, London, United Kingdom), group 2 = NovaMin/Sensodyne Repair (GlaxoSmithKline plc, London, England, United Kingdom), group 3 = Recaldent (CPP-ACP; GC Orthodontics Inc., Alsip, Illinois, United States), and group 4 = deionized water (control group). All discs underwent a 28-day remineralization process using the respective dentifrices assigned to each group. The microhardness of the discs was measured using Vickers microhardness testing at three stages: baseline, post-demineralization, and post-remineralization. Results There was no significant difference in terms of microhardness between groups both at the baseline (F (3, 24) = 1.079, p = 0.995) and after the demineralization process (F (3, 24) = 1.310, p = 0.294). However, a significant difference was identified between the groups after the remineralization process (F (3, 24) = 34.008, p = 0.001). Additionally, the least significant difference (LSD) multiple comparison test was performed. There were significant differences identified in the remineralization condition, with group 1 having the highest values, followed by group 2, group 3, and group 4. Conclusion The results indicate that the remineralization effect on artificially induced dentine caries was more pronounced with bioactive glass containing fluoride compared to bioactive glass without fluoride and CPP-ACP.

Production of Chitosan from Crab Shells

The amino polysaccharide of chitin polymer happens to be the most commonly known polymer. Chitosan as a derivative of chitin is obtained through demineralization and deacetylation. Owing to the special properties of chitin and chitosan for instance their bio-compatibility, bio-biodegradability, non-toxicity and also capability to form films, have resulted in their suitability in chemical and thermal conductivity applications. In the field of nanotechnology, chitosan-based materials are currently being widely applied. The purpose of this review is to synthesize and characterize chitosan obtained from the crab shells. The absorption band obtained from FTIR between 1220 cm−1 and 1020 cm−1 represented free amino group (−NH2). The 40.000 grams of powdered crab shells resulted in the formation of 23.000g of chitin after undergoing the process of demineralization to eliminate the minerals available in the crab shells. The removed minerals from the crab shells constituted 17.000 g (39.53%) of the total dry weight in the crab shell. The water binding capacity (WBC) was found to be 69 %.

Bovine bone-derived hydroxyapatite/carbon quantum dot nanocomposite: synthesis, characterisation, and Acid Black 210 dye removal

ABSTRACT This study explores the synthesis and characterisation of a hydroxyapatite/carbon quantum dot (HAp/CQD) nanocomposite for the removal of Acid Black 210 dye (AB210) from aqueous solutions. HAp was synthesised from bovine bone through deproteinization, demineralisation, and carbonisation processes. Structural analysis confirmed the formation of hexagonal hydroxyapatite with enhanced crystallinity post-activation. Scanning electron microscopy revealed well-defined porous structures with uniform distribution, corroborated by EDAX. FTIR spectroscopy was employed to identify chemical functional groups. Additionally, BET surface area analysis demonstrated a significant surface area of 290.67 m2/g and a pore diameter of 10.784 nm. Adsorption studies examined the effects of various parameters on AB210 removal, including initial dye concentration, adsorbent dosage, temperature, and pH. The optimal values were found to be 50 mg/L for dye concentration, 1 g for adsorbent dosage, and 50°C for temperature, while removal efficiency increased with rising pH. The adsorption was characterised using both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models, with the Langmuir model providing a better fit, particularly at 50°C. The monolayer saturated adsorption capacity was 66.22 mg/g, with a corresponding Langmuir constant of 0.3039 L/mg. Kinetic analysis using pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order models indicated that the process was controlled by chemisorption, with the pseudo-second-order model showing an excellent fit. The calculated rate constant (k2) and equilibrium adsorption capacity (qe) were determined to be 0.00694 min− 1 and 12.3609 mg/g, respectively, with an R2 value of 0.9683. Overall, the study underscores the efficacy of the HAp/CQD nanocomposite in AB210 dye removal, particularly under optimised conditions, offering valuable insights into its potential applications in environmental remediation.

Energy comparison and cost estimation of pressure-retarded osmosis using spiral wound membrane

Advancements in Pressure Retarded Osmosis (PRO) technology are enhancing the feasibility of evaluating its economic viability against other renewable energy production methods. This is done using the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) as a metric. The study focuses on three PRO scenarios designed to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable energy. These scenarios utilize a spiral-wound membrane module combined with hyper-saline solutions from Reverse Osmosis (RO) and wastewater from demineralization processes. Experimental results using a commercial spiral-wound membrane in the PRO system yielded LCOE values of USD 0.0702/kWh for a draw solution (DS) concentration of 36.2 g/l, USD 0.0563/kWh for 44.2 g/l, and USD 0.0721/kWh for 51.8 g/l. The study also evaluated environmental viability by considering the cost of CO2 emissions. This comprehensive comparison highlighted PRO's competitiveness with fossil fuels, showing it to be a reasonable alternative to coal and oil but less practical than natural gas. Specifically, the environmental analysis revealed that PRO is approximately 25.2 % more competitive than coal and 9.76 % more competitive than oil but 27.16 % less competitive compared to natural gas in terms of CO2 emission costs. This underscores the importance of considering carbon emission mitigation in energy generation.

Pengurangan Kandungan Total Dissolved Solid (TDS), Konduktivitas dan Natural Organic Matter (NOM) pada Air Baku Bendungan Jatiluhur Menggunakan Kombinasi Membran dan Ion Exchange

The escalating demand for high-quality water in industrial applications has prompted the adoption of demineralization processes as an effective solution to eliminate disruptive minerals and ions. Water, vital for process and cooling needs, must meet strict standards to avoid issues like corrosion and heavy metal pollution. Contaminants pose risks, necessitating careful attention. This study assesses demineral water requirements based on Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), conductivity, and Natural Organic Matter (NOM). Examining membrane and ion exchange technologies, including Reverse Osmosis (RO), Ultrafiltration (UF), and ion exchange resins independently and in combination, the study also explores the impact of flow rate on TDS, conductivity, and NOM. Additionally, it investigates the effect of flow rate on sampling locations at the Jatiluhur Dam. Research results highlight the effectiveness of a combined RO and resin approach, achieving an 89% reduction in TDS, 88% in conductivity, and complete NOM removal.

Oral microbiome insights: Tracing acidic culprits in dental caries with functional metagenomics

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the presence and abundance of acid-producing bacteria in dental caries samples using functional gene prediction techniques. DesignA total of 24 dental caries samples were collected for analysis. DNA isolation was performed followed by shotgun metagenomic sequencing. Functional gene prediction techniques were used to identify enzymes responsible for acid production from primary metabolites. Enzymes responsible for converting primary metabolites into acids were identified from the KEGG database. Subsequently, 840 contigs were examined, and their genus and species were characterized. ResultsAnalysis of the obtained data revealed 31 KEGG IDs corresponding to enzymes involved in the conversion of primary metabolites into acids. All 117 identified genera from the contig analysis were found to be part of the oral microbiome. In addition, A higher prevalence of acid-producing bacteria was noted in dental caries samples compared to earlier reports. ConclusionThe study indicates the significant role of acid-producing bacteria in the initiation and progression of dental caries. The findings highlight the importance of microbial activity in the demineralization process of tooth enamel. Methods for preventing dental decay may be promising if specific measures are implemented to reduce the amount of acid produced by oral bacteria.

Effect of Synthesis Condition on Degree of Deacetylation of Chitosan from Shrimp Waste for Smart Film Applications

Shrimp is an Indonesian’s export commodity with high economic value increasing every year. Usually, shrimps are exported in the form of frozen shrimp without shells, heads, tails, and entrails. It resulted in the accumulation of shrimp waste leading to the increasing environmental pollution. Shrimp waste contains high contents of chitin which can be processed to a chitosan owing several benefits. The purpose of this study is to determine the optimum condition of the synthesis of chitosan from chitin isolated by the autolysis method. The deproteination was carried out by soaking the shrimp waste in an acidic solution (pH 2 – 3) for 10 d. The demineralization process was done by reacting the deproteinated solids in a hydrochloric acid solution at pH 0 – 1 for 24 h. Parameters varied in this study time (1 – 3 h), chitin to NaOH ratio (1:10 – 1:30 (w/v)), and temperature (60 – 120℃). The higher all parameters used, the higher the obtained degree of deacetylation (DD) which is in the range of 18.35±1.13 to 48.6±0.51%. On the other hand, the obtained yield decreased from 50.66±1.98% to 47.78±0.81%. The optimum condition was obtained at a synthesis temperature of 120℃, chitin to NaOH ratio of 1:20 g/mL, and time of 3 h producing chitosan with DD of 54.25 ± 2.27%, and yield of 47.7 ± 0.65%. Chitosan synthesized using optimum conditions produced a relatively homogeneous thin film. Polyaniline was then introduced to the film to obtain a smart film prototype. This smart film was able to detect the pH changes proven by the change in its color. The smart film also could be potentially used as a “smart pack” for detecting product decay which releases ammonia gas.

Infant growth and tolerance with a formula based on novel native demineralized whey: A randomized double-blind pilot study.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects on infant growth and tolerance of a Test infant formula based on a novel whey extraction and demineralization process, compared to a Standard formula and a breastfed reference arm. Healthy term infants (n = 61) aged up to 21 days were randomized to Test or Control formula. A breastfed group (n = 39) served as a reference. Growth, tolerance, adverse events, and sleep were evaluated every month until 6 months of age. Plasma amino-acid concentrations at 3 months of age were measured in a subgroup population. Growth curves of all infants globally agreed with World Health Organization standards across the 6-month period study. Regarding tolerance, no difference between the formula-fed groups was observed on daily number of crying episodes, intensity or time to onset of regurgitations, and stool frequency or consistency, except at 5 months with infants in the Control group having more watery stools. Plasma concentration of some amino acids differed between the groups, especially tryptophan concentration which was higher in infants fed with the Test formula. In parallel, total sleep duration was longer in these infants at 2, 3, and 5 months of age, corresponding to an increase in daytime sleep. Test formula supported an adequate infant growth from birth to 6 months of age and was well-tolerated by all infants. An increase in total sleep at several months was also observed with the Test formula.

Theobromine for Remineralization of White Spot Lesions on Dental Enamel: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated theobromine's (Theobroma cacao) potential in remineralizing white spot lesions in dental enamel. Methods: This study is reported according to the PRISMA checklist and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023414371). In vitro tests that evaluated the remineralizing potential of theobromine compared to fluoride ion after demineralization for the formation of white spot lesions on enamel were selected, with no limitation on the year of publication. Electronic searches were performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science by two independent researchers. Thirty articles were received of which six were selected according to the inclusion criteria. The selected studies evaluated the Enamel Surface Microhardness (SMH), Vickers or Knoop, before and after treatment with theobromine and fluoride solutions. For the SMH Vickers, there were no differences between groups at baseline (p=1.00; mean difference: -0.00; CI: -11.36 to 11.36) and after treatment (p=0.51; mean difference: 4.12; CI: -8.16 to 16.41). The results of SMH Knoop showed differences between groups at baseline, favoring the experimental group (p=0.002; mean difference: 9.84; CI: 3.65 to 16.02) and after treatment favoring the control group (p=0.00001; mean difference: -5.45; CI: -7.62 to -3.27). The use of theobromine increases the microhardness of dental enamel subjected to a demineralization process, thus being effective in the remineralization of this tissue with success equivalent to that obtained with the use of fluoride.

Demineralization activating highly-disordered lignite-derived hard carbon for fast sodium storage

Lignite, as one of the coal materials, has been considered a promising precursor for hard carbon anodes in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) owing to its low cost and high carbon yield. Nevertheless, hard carbon directly derived from lignite pyrolysis typically exhibits highly ordered microstructure with narrow interlayer spacing and relatively unreactive interfacial properties, owing to the abundance of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and inert aromatic rings within its molecular composition. Herein, an innovative demineralization activating strategy is established to simultaneously modulate the interfacial properties and the microstructure of lignite-derived carbon for the development of high-performance SIBs. Demineralization process not only creates numerous void spaces in the matrix of lignite precursor to assist aromatic hydrocarbon rearrangement, thereby reducing the ordering and expanding interlayer spacing, but also exposes more interfacial oxygen-containing functional groups to effectively increasing the sodium storage active sites. As a result, the optimal demineralized lignite-derived hard carbon (DLHC 1300) delivers a high reversible capacity of 335.6 mAh g−1 at 30 mA g−1, superior rate performance of 246.3 mAh g−1 at 6 A g−1 and nearly 100 % capacity retention after 1100 cycles at 1A g−1. Furthermore, the optimized DLHC 1300 material functions as an outstanding anode in sodium ion full cells. This work significantly advances the development of low-cost, high-performance commercial hard carbon anodes for SIBs.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease as a risk factor of dental hard tissues erosions

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common chronic disease leading to a spontaneous and regular retrograde flow of gastric and/or duodenal contents into the esophagus. Reflux of the gastric contents into the oral cavity refers to the extraesophageal presentation of the disease, which, in the absence of timely treatment, can result in erosion of dental hard tissue (EDHT) through repeated exposure of the dental tissue to acidic contents. EDHT are non-carious lesions of the dental hard tissues (mainly enamel, and in some cases dentin), induced by a chemical reaction involving acids, which results in demineralization processes. The incidence rates of EDHT in adult patients with GERD are 32.5–51.5%. The EDHT in GERD develops in stages. Initially, the gradual degradation of tooth pelicula happens when it gradually becomes decayed by repeated acidic attacks. The loss of the pelicula results in direct contact of hydrochloric acid refluxate with the enamel surface and initiation of its demineralization at pH &lt; 5.5 with dissolution of hydroxyapatite crystals. Given the high prevalence of GERD in the population, it seems important to update an integrated approach to the treatment of such patients, which involves pharmacotherapy provided by the gastroenterologist, as well as prevention and minimally invasive treatment of presentations in the oral cavity by the dentist. Patients with EDHT due to GERD need to maintain individual oral hygiene (use mouth washes with a neutral pH level, avoid abrasive toothpastes), use remineralization therapy at home applying remogels (Tooth Mousse), and also be observed by a dentist as part of the follow-up care. Minimally invasive treatment by the dentist involves restorations using composite tooth filling materials and ceramic veneers. It is reasonable to empirically use proton pump inhibitors twice a day for 3 months for the direct treatment of GERD in patients with EDHT.

Evaluation of the Effect of Different Remineralizing Agents and Ozone Application on Artificial Carises

ABSTRACT This study aimed to assess the combined and individual effects of different remineralization agents and ozone application on initial caries. Seventy-two premolar teeth were collected. Three different toothpastes (Ipana, ROCS, and Gumgumix) were utilized. The samples were divided into eight groups (n = 8) for experimentation (Distilled water, Ipana+Ozone, Gumgumix+Ozone, ROCS+Ozone, Ipana, Gumgumix, ROCS, Ozone). Microhardness measurements were conducted initially. All samples were then immersed in a demineralization solution for 72 hours to induce initial caries. Then, microhardness measurements were repeated, and pH cycles were carried out for one-week. Finally, microhardness measurements and SEM-EDS analyses were performed. Ipana+Ozone exhibited the highest microhardness value, which was statistically significant compared to other groups except ROCS+Ozone (p < 0.05). Distilled water, Gumgumix+Ozone, and Gumgumix displayed the lowest microhardness values. Ozone application with remineralization agents led to higher precipitation of Ca ions. The demineralized group showed the lowest Ca, P, and F ions. While Ipana+Ozone and ROCS+Ozone had the highest Ca ions, Gumgumix+Ozone had the highest P ions. Within the study’s limitations, it can be concluded that ozone gas positively impacts the remineralization process in initial caries lesions. Additionally, mineral-containing products demonstrated a noteworthy capacity to reverse the demineralization process.

Efficacy of the Probiotic L. brevis in Counteracting the Demineralizing Process of the Tooth Enamel Surface: Results from an In Vitro Study.

Enamel plays an essential role in protecting the underlying layers of the human tooth; therefore, preserving it is vital. This experimental study aimed to evaluate the potential ability of L. brevis to counteract the action of a demineralizing agent on dental enamel morphology and mineral composition in vitro. The sample consisted of 12 healthy human posterior teeth. The coronal portion of each tooth was subdivided into two equal parts longitudinally. The specimens were randomly divided into four groups: artificial saliva, L. brevis suspension, demineralizing agent (DA), and DA plus L. brevis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used to evaluate the surface micromorphology and the mineral content, respectively. The statistical analysis was conducted using a one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey's post hoc test. SEM analysis did not highlight significant changes in the enamel microstructure of L. brevis-treated specimens compared to the control. DA-induced damage to the enamel structure was drastically reduced when the specimens were contextually exposed to the probiotic. The treatment with DA substantially reduced the weight % of crucial enamel minerals, i.e., Ca and P. Notably, the probiotic was able to reverse the demineralization process, bringing Ca and P weight % back to basal levels, including the Ca/P ratio. The findings indicate that L. brevis is able to efficiently protect the dental enamel surface from the damage caused by DA and increase the enamel resistance to demineralization. Overall, L. brevis confirms its efficacy in preventing or counteracting the action of carious lesions through a novel mechanism that protects the tooth surface under a chemical challenge that mimics the caries process.

Effects of the demineralisation degree on physicochemical, functional, microstructural and powder flow properties of whey powder

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the demineralisation process on powder flow, physicochemical, functional, and microstructural properties of whey powders (WP). WP samples were produced from 50, 70 and 90% demineralised sweet whey concentrates. Although the salt, ash, and lactic acid content of the powders decreased with increasing demineralisation, pH increased. D [3,2] (surface area mean diameter) value of WP samples ranged from 28.2 to 60.9 μm, in which demineralisation increased the particle size. The colour values showed increased darkness and yellowness, attributed to the higher demineralisation process. Demineralisation improved solubility and foaming characteristics, whereas it decreased the wettability and dispersibility of samples. The caking and cohesion characteristics of WP were significantly decreased by demineralisation. Demineralisation significantly improved the powder flow characteristics of samples. The cohesion index decreased depending on the demineralisation degree increased. Also, demineralisation decreased the cake strength and compaction coefficient of samples. Mineral content decreased with increasing demineralisation, with some minerals showing more sensitivity to demineralisation than others. Scanning Electron Microscope images showed reduced caking and clustering in samples with higher degrees of demineralisation. The results highlighted the importance of demineralisation as an effective parameter to control the properties of WP. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the degree of demineralisation had a substantial impact on the physical and functional properties of WP.

INITIATION OF PROCESS STANDARDIZATION TO FABRICATE DEMINERALIZED BONE DIRECTED TOWARDS MAKING MATERIALS FOR BONE GRAFTING

Background: Bone tissue, a vital component for self-healing. This inherent regenerative capacity enables bones to repair themselves following injury or damage. Understanding the mechanisms behind bone tissue self-healing is of great significance in the field of medical research and has implications for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. In this article, we explore the fundamental characteristics and mechanisms underlying the self-healing properties of bone tissue. In certain instances of trauma or pathological conditions resulting in bone defects, the natural healing process may be insufficient. Consequently, the implementation of bone transplant interventions becomes imperative for successful bone regeneration. The predominant origins of bone grafts encompass autologous, homologous, and heterologous sources. The allograft, a widely utilized bone grafting technique, has gained significant popularity, and is currently in high demand within the medical field. The current state of allograft utilization in our nation has proven insufficient in meeting the demands of patients. Henceforth, a method has been devised and standardized for the procurement of demineralized osseous tissue, a crucial investigation in light of the insufficiency of allografts in meeting the requirements of patients. Objectives: Initially, standardizing an efficient procedure to obtain demineralized bone sources from human skull fragments from three different inclusion methods. Materials and Methods: Using three different types of solutions to obtain demineralized bone from human skull tissue including solutions of Formic Acid (10%), Hydrochloric Acid (5%), a mixture of solution: Formic Acid (10%) - Acid Hydrochloric (5%) (ratio 1:1,v/v). Demineralized bones were evaluated by comparing the mineral content extracted from bone samples, demineralization time, and analysis of ions concentration in bone samples (including Ca and P) before and after demineralization. Besides, demineralized bones were histologically stained before and after demineralization to assess the bone structure. Results: The Ca and P extraction rates of this method are high and standard, about 98% and 93%, respectively. The demineralization process only takes about five days. Relative bone tissue retains most of the structure of compact bone tissue. Conclusion: The procedure that our team has established is the right one for obtaining demineralized bone as bone replacement material and applies to a wide variety of human bone tissue.