Aim: Casein phosphopeptides (CPPs) are phosphorylated casein-derived peptides produced by proteolytic digestion of alphas 1-, betas 2- and beta-casein in vitro or in the digestive tract. CPPs exhibit anti-caries activity relates to their capability to localise high levels of amorphous Ca2+ phosphate on tooth surface. Aim of this study is in vitro testing of the capability of CPPs to prevent demineralisation and promote remineralization of early enamel lesions.
Materials and methods: 159 samples of dental enamel were divided into 3 groups, which subsequently underwent 3 different chemical treatments: the samples from group I (control group) were preserved in distilled water; the samples from group II were treated with a demineralizing solution for producing artificial caries; the samples from group III underwent the same treatment as group II, but with the addition of CPPs. The effects of these procedures were evaluated by quantitative analysis (change in weight and calcium titration) and qualitative analysis (SEM).
Statistics: Statistical analysis of the results was performed using ANOVA. RESULTS In presence of CPPs, acid dissolution of human enamel is reduced by over 50% in vitro. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that CPPs could be a valid preventive system against demineralisation of early enamel lesions.