Objective: To investigate the effect of removing EDTA-soluble phosphate protein in dentin on the later remineralization for the purpose of better understanding of mechanism of dentin phosphate proteins on dentin mineralization.
Methods: To remove soluble phosphate protein by EDTA dissolution, then the remineralization rate was monitored by a constant composition crystal growth technique. The results were compared with those from the normal dentin and the dentin partially demineralized by acetic acid.
Results: Faster remineralization rates were found with dentin demineralized by EDTA (0.5 and 2 h) compared with normal dentin powder, while a slower rate was found with dentin demineralized by acetic acid. The increase of remineralization rate by removing phosphate protein from dentin was 100% more at 200 min after the start of the reaction.
Conclusion: EDTA-soluble phosphate protein in dentin has a great potential to inhibit remineralization.