State of the Art Enamel Remineralization Systems: The Next Frontier in Caries Management

Caries Res. 2019;53(3):284-295. doi: 10.1159/000493031. Epub 2018 Oct 8.

Abstract

The principles of minimally invasive dentistry clearly dictate the need for clinically effective measures to remineralize early enamel caries lesions. While fluoride-mediated remineralization is the cornerstone of current caries management philosophies, a number of new remineralization strategies have been commercialized or are under development that claim to promote deeper remineralization of lesions, reduce the potential risks associated with high-fluoride oral care products, and facilitate caries control over a lifetime. These non-fluoride remineralizing systems can be broadly categorized into biomimetic enamel regenerative technologies and the approaches that repair caries lesions by enhancing fluoride efficacy. This paper discusses the rationale for non-fluoride remineralization and the mechanism of action, challenges, and evidence behind some of the most promising advances in enamel remineralization therapies.

Keywords: Enamel caries; Fluoride booster; Non-fluoride remineralization; Remineralization.

MeSH terms

  • Dental Care / trends*
  • Dental Caries / prevention & control*
  • Dental Enamel
  • Fluorides
  • Humans
  • Tooth Remineralization / methods*

Substances

  • Fluorides