Characterization of a novel enamel sealer for bioactive remineralization of white spot lesions

Objectives: 45S5 Bioglass is a bioactive glass capable of releasing ions that can interact with dental hard tissues. The current study aimed at examining the effectiveness of 45S5 Bioglass in remineralizing enamel white spot lesion (WSL) as well as its effect on the bond strength of orthodontic brackets bonded to demineralized enamel. Materials and methods: WSLs were induced in the buccal surfaces of 135 human extracted teeth by storage in acid solution pH 4.5 for four days. The specimens were then equally divided into three groups; Demineralized group, Bioglass group (BG), and control group (intact enamel). The groups were chemically analyzed using (FTIR/ATR) Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy/attenuated total reflectance, (XRD) X-ray diffraction, and (SEM/EDS) scanning electron microscope equipped with electron-dispersive-spectroscopy. Moreover, 10 specimens from each group were tested using Transverse Micro Radiography (TMR) technique, and 15 specimens from each group were bonded with metal orthodontic brackets and tested for shear bond strength test (SBS). The data were analyzed statistically using One way ANOVA p < 0.05. Results: TMR study showed that bioglass group samples recorded lesion depth of 70.19 +/- 29.21 mu m and delta Z (mineral loss) 732.15 +/- 210.16 vol% mu m which was significantly lower than the demineralized specimens having lesion depth of 115.75 +/- 19.98 mu m and delta Z (mineral loss) 3472.69 +/- 738.38 vol%mu m, moreover, bioglass specimens recorded 14.15 +/- 2.35 Mpa which was significantly higher than demineralized specimens 6.82+1.83 Mpa but less than the control specimens 20.5 + 6.1 MPa (p < 0.05). FTIR/ATR, XRD, and SEM/EDS tests showed that bioglass paste formed a layer of brushite crystals onto the treated enamel surface . Conclusion: 45S5 bioglass paste may serve as an effective remineralizing agent for demineralized enamel.

Automated summary

The study demonstrated that 45S5 bioglass is effective in remineralizing enamel white spot lesions and improving the bond strength of orthodontic brackets bonded to demineralized enamel. The bioglass group showed significantly lower lesion depth and mineral loss compared to demineralized specimens, and intermediate shear bond strength between demineralized and intact enamel specimens. Additionally, bioglass paste formed brushite crystals on the treated enamel surface, indicating its potential as an effective remineralization agent.