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Dental caries is a multifactorial chronic disease resulting from the intricate interplay among acid-generating bacteria, fermentable carbohydrates, and several host factors such as saliva. Saliva comprises several proteins which could be utilized as biomarkers for caries prevention, diagnosis, and prognosis. Mass spectrometry-based salivary proteomics approaches, owing to their sensitivity, provide the opportunity to investigate and unveil crucial cariogenic pathogen activity and host indicators and may demonstrate clinically relevant biomarkers to improve caries diagnosis and management. The present review outlines the published literature of human clinical proteomics investigations on caries and extensively elucidates frequently reported salivary proteins as biomarkers. This review also discusses important aspects while designing an experimental proteomics workflow. The protein-protein interactions and the clinical relevance of salivary proteins as biomarkers for caries, together with uninvestigated domains of the discipline are also discussed critically., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objectives: Dental caries is the most common chronic disease in humans, caused by the acid produced by the microflora in the mouth that dissolves the enamel minerals. Bioactive glass (BAG) has been used in various clinical applications due to its unique bioactive properties, such as bone graft substitutes and dental restorative composites. In this study, we introduce a novel bioactive glass-ceramic (NBGC) prepared through a sol-gel process under a water-free condition., Materials and Methods: The anti-demineralization and remineralization effects of NBGC were evaluated by comparing the measurements of bovine enamel surface morphology, surface roughness, surface micro-hardness, enamel elements, and mineral content before and after related treatments with a commercial BAG. The antibacterial effect was characterized by minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC)., Results: Results showed that NBGC had greater acid resistance and remineralization potential compared to commercial BAG. The fast formation of a hydroxy carbonate apatite (HCA) layer suggests efficient bioactivity., Clinical Relevance: In addition to its antibacterial properties, NBGC shows promise as an ingredient in oral care products that can prevent demineralization and restore enamel., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

This in vitro study aimed at investigating whether full remineralization would occur in white spot lesions when the surface porosity was increased by acid-etching. The effect of fluoride was also investigated. Enamel blocks with in vitro produced white spot lesions were used. Group A was exposed to a remineralizing solution only. In group B, the lesions were etched with 35% phosphoric acid for 30 s, then treated as in group A. Group C was treated as group A + daily treatment with a fluoride toothpaste slurry (1,000 ppm) for 5 min. Group D was treated as group B + the daily fluoride treatment of group C. The remineralization was measured weekly with Quantitative Light-induced Fluorescence during the experimental period. After 10 weeks of remineralization, mineral profiles were assessed with transverse microradiography. The enamel fluorescence was partly regained. There were significant differences in the lesion depth, mineral content at the surface layer, and integrated mineral loss between the groups. Addition of fluoride accelerated the remineralization only in the beginning; in later stages the process leveled out and even reached a plateau in all the groups. It was concluded that full remineralization was not achieved by etching, by the addition of fluoride, nor by the combination of both treatments in this in vitro study.

Background: Root caries has gained much attention in the last few years. As the world's population is ageing and people currently tend to retain more teeth compared with older generations, there is an increased prevalence of periodontal disease and gingival recession, which may accelerate the onset of root caries., Objective: This review aims to summarise recent findings related to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of root caries., Materials and Methods: MEDLINE (OVID) and Scopus (Elsevier) searches were performed to identify and discuss articles that address the pathogenicity and clinical management of root caries., Results: Root caries is a multifactorial disease. Cariogenic species involved in root caries are less dependent on carbohydrates since collagen degradation inside the dentinal tubules can provide nutrients and microcavities for the invading microorganisms. Furthermore, the root surface has fewer minerals in comparison with enamel, which may accelerate the onset of demineralisation. Root caries could be prevented by patient education, modification of risk factors, and the use of in-office and home remineralisation tools. The use of non-invasive approaches to control root caries is recommended, as the survival rate of root caries restorations is poor. When plaque control is impossible and a deep/large cavity is present, glass ionomer or resin-based restorations can be placed., Conclusion: The assessment of root carious lesions is critical to determine the lesion activity and the required intervention. Dental practitioners should also be aware of different prevention and treatment approaches to design optimum oral health care for root caries-affected patients., (© 2020 Gerodontology Association. John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Dental caries remains a significant global health issue. It was highlighted by the World Health Organization's 2022 reports that despite the efforts and scientific advancements in caries detection and management, the situation has only marginally improved over the past three decades. The persistence of this problem may be linked to outdated concepts developed almost a century ago but are still guiding dentists' approach to caries management today. There is a need to reconsider professional strategies for preventing and managing the disease. Contemporary dentistry could benefit from embracing new concepts and technologies for caries detection and management. Dentists should explore, among others, alternative methods for caries detection such as optical-based caries detection. These tools have been established for over a decade and they align with current disease understanding and international recommendations, emphasizing early detection and minimally invasive management. This narrative review presents the current state of knowledge and recent trends in caries detection, diagnosis, monitoring, and management, offering insights into future perspectives for clinical applications and research topics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Salivary biomolecules are considered important modulators of the oral microflora, with a potential subsequent impact on dental health. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between salivary enzymatic activity and carious experience in children. The carious experience of a sample of 22 school children was evaluated by calculating dmf/DMF indices, following WHO recommendations. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected, and salivary alpha-amylase levels, total protease activity, and matrix metalloproteinase levels (MMP-8 and MMP-9) were measured. The data were analyzed using parametric and nonparametric tests. Our findings revealed no significant relationship between the investigated salivary parameters and the carious experience in permanent teeth (DMFT/DMFS scores). Carious indices scores for primary teeth (dmft and dmfs) were positively associated with MMP-8 levels (r = 0.62, p = 0.004 and rs = 0.61, p = 0.006, respectively) and MMP-9 levels (r = 0.45, p = 0.05 and rs = 0.48, p = 0.039, respectively) and negatively associated with alpha-amylase levels (rs = −0.54, p = 0.017 and rs = −0.59, p = 0.006, respectively). Although with a marginal significance, PEK−054 levels positively correlated with dental caries, while for PFU−089, a negative correlation was observed. These results suggest that salivary alpha-amylase and MMP-8 and MMP-9 levels may be considered potential indicators of carious experience in children. Further studies with a prospective design are needed in order to elucidate the role of these biomolecules in caries development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine if sealing dentin caries with a resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI) decreases the number of viable microorganisms and demineralization depth, using an experimental dentin caries model of biofilms of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). Materials and Methods: Dentin caries lesions were created over a 15-day period on bovine dentin slabs with biofilms of S. mutans UA159. Once lesions were formed, biofilms were removed and the slabs were randomly allocated to one of the treatment groups: group A, surface sealed with a RMGI; or group B, unsealed slabs (control). At 5, 10, and 15 days, slabs were longitudinally sectioned to analyze the number of infiltrating viable bacteria by culturing on agar plates and demineralization depth by cross-sectional Knoop microhardness. Results: Dentin lesions sealed with RMGI decreased bacterial counts from the infected dentin, both with respect to baseline counts and also relative to the unsealed control (p < 0.05). Consistently, demineralization depth was lower for sealed lesions when compared with unsealed slabs (p < 0.05) at all analyzed timepoints. Conclusions: Sealing dentin lesions with RMGI appears to halt lesion progression in this experimental model by reducing bacterial viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different formulas of topical fluoride have been used to manage root carious lesions. This clinical trial aimed to investigate the efficacy of a dental varnish containing casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) and fluoride compared with fluoride alone in reversing/arresting root caries in xerostomic patients over 1 year. A total of 80 patients (age range 45–92 years) with primary root caries (n = 184 root carious lesions) and unstimulated salivary flow rate of <0.2 mL/min were randomly allocated to receive either dental varnish containing CPP-ACP and 5% fluoride (group 1: MI varnish; GC, Japan) (n = 41, 83 lesions), or dental varnish with 5% fluoride alone (group 2: NUPRO White; Dentsply, USA) (n = 39, 101 lesions). Clinical assessments with Severity Index (SI) for root caries, DIAGNOdent measurements, and varnish application were carried out at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months. Standard oral hygiene instructions with 1,450 ppm fluoride toothpastes were provided for both groups. After 3 months, 63.9% (n = 46) of root caries in group 1 became hard (SI: 0) compared with 39.3% (n = 35) in group 2 (p < 0.01). After 6 and 12 months, the differences in SI were insignificant (group 1, n = 60, 83.3%) (group 2, n = 66, 74.2%) (p = 0.36), and (group 1, n = 60, 89.6%) (group 2, n = 67, 81.7%, n = 1 soft, 1.2%) (p = 0.29), respectively. In both groups, noncavitated leathery lesions were more likely to become hard when compared to the cavitated root caries. A significant decrease in plaque index, surface roughness, lesion dimension, and DIAGNOdent readings with a significant increase in lesion distance from the gingival margin was reported in both groups (p < 0.05). This study has provided evidence that fluoride dental varnish either with or without calcium and phosphate has the potential to arrest/reverse root caries, especially noncavitated lesions for patients with xerostomia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this in vivo study was to evaluate the efficacy of low-viscosity light-cured resin infiltration on postorthodontic white spot lesions (WSLs) on incipient and advanced lesions using quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF). Methods: The study subjects were patients with clinically diagnosed postorthodontic WSLs (n=57). QLF images of the lesions were obtained using a QLF device (Inspektor-Pro, Amsterdam, The Netherlands) before any treatment. Images were processed using the built-in software (QLF patient v2.0.0.48), which produced fluorescence loss (ΔF1), lesion area (Area1), and impact (ΔF1 x Area1, ΔQ1) values. Lesions were categorized as incipient (-5<ΔF1<-12, n=14) or advanced (-12<ΔF1<-25, n=43). They were then infiltrated with low-viscosity resin (Icon-DMG, Hamburg, Germany) according to the manufacturer's instructions. QLF imaging was repeated (ΔF2, Area2, and ΔQ2) from the same aspects assured by the relative software. Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Wilcoxon, and Mann-Whitney tests were used for data evaluation. Results: ΔF1 (-8.40±0.73) and Area1 (3.44±5.19) decreased to -6.58±0.88 and 0.18±0.33 for incipient lesions (p<0.001 and p=0.002, respectively). ΔF1 (-13.20±5.32) and Area1 (4.71±5.56) decreased to -7.51±2.7 and 0.29±1.86 for advanced lesions (p<0.001). When ΔF, lesion area, and ΔQ changes between the groups were compared, the decrease in ΔF was greater for advanced lesions (p<0.001), whereas the decrease in the lesion area and ΔQ was similar (p=0.690, p=0.291). Conclusions: Infiltration treatment provides improvement of WSLs in terms of fluorescence loss, lesion area, and impact for both incipient and advanced lesions, with the latter group presenting higher fluorescence loss reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental caries on (proximal) tooth surfaces is still a problem in many industrialized countries. The objectives of this review were to present the scientific basis and the principles of the resin infiltration concept, to discuss the inherent clinical applications, and to describe how these backgrounds can be integrated into the concept of minimal intervention dentistry. Data were identified by searches of the Cochrane Registers, Medline, and Scopus. Articles published in English and German through December 2008 were selected, and most up-to-date or relevant references were chosen. Cross-referencing of significant articles identified additionally relevant articles written in other languages and those of historical value. A total of 23 in vitro studies (focusing on penetration depths or demineralization prevention) were found, and 3 clinical studies (involving 122 subjects) could be retrieved; these studies were not comparable. With an increased understanding of the caries process, it is now recognized that demineralized but noncavitated enamel lesions can be arrested or remineralized in many situations. The clinical research evidence on the resin infiltration technique currently is of moderate extent to reach any decisive conclusions; however, based on available laboratory and clinical studies, it seems convincing that resin infiltration of enamel lesions should reduce (or even stop) the progress of white spot lesions. Combining this ultraconservative restorative approach (which is considered microinvasive) with a substantial caries remineralization program may provide therapeutic benefits and significantly reduce both long-term restorative needs and costs, thus complementing the concept of minimal intervention dentistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the bond strength of adhesive resins to artificially carious dentin specimens which were previously exposed to an acid buffer solution for various periods. Materials and Methods: Flat dentin disks were obtained from superficial occlusal dentin of extracted human third molars and polished with wet silicon carbide paper. Dentin disks were immersed in acid buffer solution for different periods to create the demineralized dentin layer. The first group of demineralized specimens was used for the evaluation of demineralization depth under SEM and the second group was used for the bond strength measurement. Shear bond strengths mediated by three dentin adhesives (Clearfil SE Bond, OptiBond Solo Plus Total-Etch, and OptiBond Solo Plus Self-Etch) were examined. A 0.75-mm-diameter area of dentin was bonded according to the manufacturers' instructions before placing a 0.5-mm-high resin composite cylinder. The bonds were stressed in shear at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. All data were analyzed using ANOVA and LSD multiple comparison test. Results: Depth of demineralization increased with the prolongation of demineralizing time. After dentin specimens were demineralized for up to 24 h, bond strengths of the self-etching adhesives were significantly higher than those of the total-etch adhesive. However, for longer demineralization periods, no statistical differences in bond strengths were observed. SEM photographs showed that resins cannot thoroughly infiltrate through the whole depth of the demineralized dentin layer. Conclusion: Bond strengths to demineralized, artificially carious dentin were affected by the depth of demineralization and adhesive resins used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a diverse set of metabolic disorders initiated by either a lack of insulin, opposition to its action, or both. The aim of this study was to assess the association between glycemic control and the periodontal/caries status of controlled diabetic patients at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight diabetic patients with good glycemic control demonstrated by three consecutive results in their medical records and who gave informed consent were enlisted and screened for periodontal disease and dental caries. Glycemic control was assessed using fasting blood sugar, 2-h postprandial, and glycated hemoglobin (Hb1Ac). Caries was assessed by decayed missing filled teeth (DMFT) while oral hygiene index, gingival index (GI), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and probing pocket depth (PPD) were used to assess periodontal health. The data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 18 and test of statistical significance was done using Chi-square test and ANOVA test. A P ≤ 0.05 was recorded as statistically significant. Results: The PPD and CAL of the participants were significantly associated with their glycemic levels. Those with increased glycemic values had greater attachment loss and pocket depth. Gingival inflammation and oral hygiene were however not significantly associated with glycemic control. Respondents above 65 years similarly had significantly higher numbers of missing teeth (P = 0.04) and greater mean DMFT values (P = 0.03). Similarly, respondents above 66 years of age, those who had no education, and females were observed to have worse oral hygiene, gingival inflammation, and periodontal destruction evidenced by CAL and PPD than other respondents, even though the association was not significant. Conclusion: Oral health manifestations of diabetes need to be emphasized like other systemic diabetic complications. The salient role of glycemic control in periodontal health should also be continuously emphasized among diabetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Non-invasive esthetic treatment options for stained arrested caries lesions have not been explored. This study aimed to develop laboratory models to create stained-remineralized caries-like lesions (s-RCLs) and to test the efficacy of bleaching on their esthetic treatment.Materials and methods: One hundred twelve enamel/dentin specimens were prepared from human molars, embedded, and had their color measured spectrophotometrically at baseline and after demineralization. They were randomly divided into four groups (n = 14) based on the staining/remineralization protocols for a total of 5 days: G1, no staining/no remineralization; G2, no staining/remineralization in artificial saliva (AS); G3, non-metallic staining/remineralization with sodium fluoride/AS; and G4, metallic staining/remineralization with silver diamine fluoride/AS. The lesion mineral loss (ΔZ) and depth (L) were measured using transverse microradiography along with color change (ΔE). Specimens were bleached and color was re-evaluated. Data were analyzed using ANOVA models followed by Fisher's PLSD tests (α = 0.05).Results: s-RCLs in G4 were significantly (p < 0.001) darker than G3, G2, and G1 regardless of substrate type and condition. s-RCLs in G2, G3, and G4 showed significantly lower ΔZ and L than G1 (all p < 0.001), confirming occurrence of remineralization. G4 exhibited significantly lower ΔZ and L compared to G2 (p < 0.001). Bleaching was more effective in non-metallic than in metallic stained lesions regardless of substrate type (p < 0.001).Conclusion: The proposed models created distinct s-RCLs. Non-metallic s-RCLs were lighter and more responsive to bleaching compared to metallic s-RCLs.Clinical relevance: The developed experimental models allow the further investigation of the efficacy and safety of different clinical strategies for the esthetic management of s-RCLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study determined white spots with the help of quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) in patients undergoing fixed orthodontics. Materials and Methods: Sixty-four patients undergoing fixed orthodontics above 12 years underwent debonding, and the presence of carious lesion was assessed at baseline and after 6 weeks, 6 months, and 2 years. QLF images were taken with intraoral fluorescence camera. QLF images were examined visually for signs of demineralization, and scoring system was used. Results: It is found that there was fluorescence loss over a period of time. The median sum of fluorescence loss per patient was 55.6% and 29.2% and 101.4% at quartiles at baseline which changed to 51.2% and 26.5% at the first quartile and 101.4% at the second quartile. At 2 years, it was 43.7% and at the first quartile was 22.1% and at the second quartile was 99.1%. There was significant improvement at T2 (P < 0.05), however, between baseline and F1 and between F1 and F2, there was nonsignificant improvement (P > 0.05). The median value for total lesion area per patient was 3.6 mm2 with quartiles 1.2 mm2 and 8.2 mm2 at baseline, 2.6 mm2 with quartiles 0.7 mm2 and 6.3 mm2 at 6 weeks, 2.3 mm2 with quartiles 0.7 mm2 and 6.3 mm2 at 6 months, and 1.8 mm2 with quartiles 0.5 mm2 and 5.8 mm2 at 2 years which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The authors found that white spots during fixed orthodontic treatment and after debonding is a common phenomenon. Although there was improvement in disappearance of these lesions, complete removal cannot be ensured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Nyvad classification is a visual-tactile caries classification system devised to enable the detection of the activity and severity of caries lesions with special focus on low-caries populations. The criteria behind the classification reflect the entire continuum of caries, ranging from clinically sound surfaces through noncavitated and microcavitated caries lesions in enamel, to frank cavitation into the dentin. Lesion activity at each severity stage is discriminated by differences in surface topography and lesion texture. The reliability of the Nyvad criteria is high to excellent when used by trained examiners in the primary and permanent dentitions. The Nyvad criteria have construct validity for lesion activity assessments because of their ability to reflect the well-known caries-controlling effect of fluoride. Predictive validity was demonstrated by showing that active noncavitated lesions are at higher risk of progressing to a cavity or filled state than do inactive noncavitated lesions. Lesion activity assessment performed successfully as a screening tool to identify individuals with a poor caries prognosis. Because of their predictive validity, the Nyvad criteria are superior to other current caries lesion descriptors for the detection of changes in the lesion activity status over time. The Nyvad criteria fulfill all the formal requirements for a robust caries lesion classification and are recommended for evidence-based caries management in clinical practice and in research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: The clinical significance of acid etching prior to orthodontic bonding is controversial. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of 15 seconds of acid etching on enamel demineralization. Methods: Twenty‐seven human molars were sectioned and assigned to two groups. Under standardized conditions, the enamel surfaces were imaged using FluoreCam to obtain baseline data. Group 1 was etched using 37% phosphoric acid for 15 seconds, rinsed with water, and then imaged again; group 2 was only rinsed with water. Water rinse was collected for calcium chemical analysis using inductively‐coupled plasma auger electron spectrometry. Both groups were subjected to 9 days of pH cycling, after which final FluoreCam images were obtained. Results: Group 1 showed a significant increase in lesion area (P=.012), decrease in light intensity (P=.009), and decrease in impact (P=.007) after acid etching. The amount of calcium that leached out over the 15 seconds was 14 ppm ±2.4 (0.35 mmol/L±0.06). Following pH cycling, there was no statistically‐significant between‐group difference in overall enamel demineralization. Conclusion: Initial demineralization caused by 15 seconds of acid etching does not increase enamel susceptibility to further demineralization. This suggests that acid etching does not increase the risk of developing white spot lesions during orthodontics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of a self-assembling peptide on noncavitated caries lesions is supposed to be a feasible approach to facilitate remineralization and mask their unfavorable appearance. However, demineralizing conditions are common in the oral environment, so the aim of this pH-cycling study was to compare recommended and novel treatment methods regarding their ability to hamper demineralization and as a consequence mask artificial enamel caries lesions. Artificial caries lesions were prepared in bovine enamel and randomly allocated to 11 groups (n = 22). Treatments before pH-cycling were as follows: the application of a self-assembling peptide (Curodont™ Repair [C]), a low-viscosity resin (Icon® [I]), 2 fluoride solutions (10,000 ppm F-: Elmex fluid [E] and 43,350 ppm F-: Tiefenfluorid® [T]), and no intervention (N). During pH-cycling (28 days, 6 × 60 min demineralization/day) half of the specimens in each group were brushed (10 s; 2 ×/day) with either fluoride-free (named e.g., C0) or NaF (1,100 ppm F-; e.g., C1) dentifrice slurry. In another subgroup specimens were pH-cycled but not brushed (NNB). Differences in integrated mineral loss (ΔΔZ), lesion depth (ΔLD), and colorimetric values (ΔΔE) were calculated between values after pre-demineralization, surface treatment, and pH-cycling. Specimens of C0, C1, NNB, N0, N1, T0, and E0 showed significantly increased ΔZ and LD values after pH-cycling (p ≤ 0.003; paired t test). C0, C1, NNB, and N0 showed significantly higher changes in ΔΔZ than E1, I0, I1, and T1 (p < 0.001; ANOVA). Significantly reduced colorimetric values could only be observed for I1, I0, E1, and E0 after treatment and after pH-cycling (p ≤ 0.027; paired t test). In conclusion, under the conditions chosen only the application of a low-viscosity resin could mask caries lesions significantly, whereas self-assembling peptides could neither inhibit lesion progression nor mask the lesions considerably. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: For deep carious lesions, less invasive carious tissue removal is recommended. The resulting residual carious lesions might benefit from remineralization by lining or restoration materials. We aimed to compare mineral gains in artificial residual lesions provided by calcium hydroxide and glass hybrid materials in combination with pulpal fluid simulation. Methods: On the coronal aspect of human dentin discs ( n = 20), artificial carious lesions were induced using acetic acid. Median mineral loss Δ Z [25th/75th percentiles] of resulting lesions was 1643 [1301/1858] vol% μm. One third of each disc served as baseline sample. The remaining disc was divided into four groups, each being covered with one experimental material ( n = 20/group): flowable composite (control (CO)), setting or non-setting calcium hydroxide liner plus flowable composite (CH-S, CH-NS), and glass hybrid (GH). Samples were mounted in a dual-chamber device. Pulpal surfaces were exposed to simulated pulpal fluid at 2.94 kPa. Coronal surfaces were exposed to artificial saliva and rinsed with 200 ppm NaF every 2 weeks. After 12 weeks, mineral loss differences (ΔΔ Z) were assessed using transverse microradiography. Electron probe microscopic analysis was used to measure fluoride and strontium concentrations. Results: Mineral gains were not significantly different between CO (ΔΔ Z = 372 [115/501] vol% μm), CH-S (ΔΔ Z = 317 [229/919] vol% μm), or CH-NS (ΔΔ Z = 292 [130/579] vol% μm; p > 0.05/Wilcoxon test) but significantly increased in GH (ΔΔ Z = 1044 [751/1264] vol% μm, p < 0.001). Samples in GH showed fluoride and strontium enrichment deep into the dentin. Such enrichment was not found in CO. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, GH, but not calcium hydroxide, provided coronal remineralization of residual carious lesions. Clinical relevance: Glass hybrids might provide additional remineralization of residual carious lesions. The functional implications of this mineral gain need to be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances regarding the caries process indicate that ecological phenomena induced by bacterial acid production tilt the de- and remineralization balance of the dental hard tissues towards demineralization through bacterial acid-induced adaptation and selection within the microbiota - from the dynamic stability stage to the aciduric stage via the acidogenic stage [Takahashi and Nyvad, 2008]. Dentin and root caries can also be partly explained by this hypothesis; however, the fact that these tissues contain a considerable amount of organic material suggests that protein degradation is involved in caries formation. In this review, we compiled relevant histological, biochemical, and microbiological information about dentin/root caries and refined the hypothesis by adding degradation of the organic matrix (the proteolytic stage) to the abovementioned stages. Bacterial acidification not only induces demineralization and exposure of the organic matrix in dentin/root surfaces but also activation of dentin-embedded and salivary matrix metalloproteinases and cathepsins. These phenomena initiate degradation of the demineralized organic matrix in dentin/root surfaces. While a bacterial involvement has never been confirmed in the initial degradation of organic material, the detection of proteolytic/amino acid-degrading bacteria and bacterial metabolites in dentin and root caries suggests a bacterial digestion and metabolism of partly degraded matrix. Moreover, bacterial metabolites might induce pulpitis as an inflammatory/immunomodulatory factor. Root and dentin surfaces are always at risk of becoming demineralized in the oral cavity, and exposed organic materials can be degraded by host-derived proteases contained in saliva and dentin itself. New approaches to the prevention and treatment of root/dentin caries are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this double-blinded, randomized, cross-over in situ study was to evaluate the re- and demineralization characteristics of sound enamel as well as lowly and highly demineralized caries-like enamel lesions after the application of different fluoride compounds.Methods: In each of three experimental legs of 4 weeks, 21 participants wore intraoral mandibular appliances containing 4 bovine enamel specimens (2 lowly and 2 highly demineralized). Each specimen included one sound enamel and either one lowly demineralized (7 days, pH 4.95) or one highly demineralized (21 days, pH 4.95) lesion, and was positioned 1 mm below the acrylic under a plastic mesh. The three randomly allocated treatments (application only) included the following dentifrices: (1) 1,100 ppm F as NaF, (2) 1,100 ppm F as SnF2 and (3) 0 ppm F (fluoride-free) as negative control. Differences in integrated mineral loss (x0394;x0394;Z) and lesion depth (x0394;LD) were calculated between values before and after the in situ period using transversal microradiography.Results: Of the 21 participants, 6 did not complete the study and 2 were excluded due to protocol violation. Irrespectively of the treatment, higher baseline mineral loss and lesion depth led to a less pronounced change in mineral loss and lesion depth. Except for x0394;x0394;Z of the dentifrice with 0 ppm F, sound surfaces showed significantly higher x0394;x0394;Z and x0394;LD values compared with lowly and highly demineralized lesions (p < 0.05, t test).Conclusion: Re- and demineralization characteristics of enamel depended directly on baseline mineral loss and lesion depth. Treatment groups should therefore be well balanced with respect to baseline mineral loss and lesion depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a highly prevalent multifactorial disease, dental caries afflicts a large proportion of the world's population. As teeth are constantly bathed in saliva, the constituents and properties of this oral fluid play an essential role in the occurrence and progression of dental caries. Various inorganic (water and electrolytes) and organic (proteins and peptides) components may protect teeth from dental caries. This occurs via several functions, such as clearance of food debris and sugar, aggregation and elimination of microorganisms, buffering actions to neutralize acid, maintaining supersaturation with respect to tooth mineral, participation in formation of the acquired pellicle and antimicrobial defense. Modest evidence is available on the associations between dental caries and several salivary parameters, including flow rate, buffering capacity and abundance of mutans streptococci. Despite some controversial findings, the main body of the literature supports an elevated caries prevalence and/or incidence among people with a pathologically low saliva flow rate, compromised buffering capacity and early colonization or high titer of mutans streptococci in saliva. The evidence remains weak and/or inconsistent on the association between dental caries and other saliva parameters, such as other possible cariogenic species (Lactobacillus spp., Streptococcus sanguis group, Streptococcus salivarius, Actinomyces spp. and Candida albicans), diversity of saliva microbiomes, inorganic and organic constituents (electrolytes, immunoglobulins, other proteins and peptides) and some functional properties (sugar clearance rate, etc.). The complex interactions between salivary components and functions suggest that saliva has to be considered in its entirety to account for its total effects on teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, it is still a tough task for dentists to remineralize dentine in deep caries. The aim of this study was to remineralize demineralized dentine in a tooth model of deep caries using nanocomplexes of carboxymethyl chitosan/amorphous calcium phosphate (CMC/ACP) based on mimicking the stabilizing effect of dentine matrix protein 1 (DMP1) on ACP in the biomineralization of dentine. The experimental results indicate that CMC can stabilize ACP to form nanocomplexes of CMC/ACP, which is able to be processed into scaffolds by lyophilization. In the single-layer collagen model, ACP nanoparticles are released from scaffolds of CMC/ACP nanocomplexes dissolved and then infiltrate into collagen fibrils via the gap zones (40 nm) to accomplish intrafibrillar mineralization of collagen. With this method, the completely demineralized dentine was partially remineralized in the tooth mode. This is a bottom-up remineralizing strategy based on non-classical crystallization theory. Since nanocomplexes of CMC/ACP show a promising effect of remineralization on demineralized dentine via biomimetic strategy, thereby preserving dentinal tissue to the maximum extent possible, it would be a potential indirect pulp capping (IPC) material for the management of deep caries during vital pulp therapy based on the concept of minimally invasive dentistry (MID). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aim of this single - blind, multicenter, parallel, randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of the application of a high-fluoride toothpaste on root caries in adults. Methods Adult patients ( n = 130, ♂ = 74, ♀ = 56; mean age ± SD: 56.9 ± 12.9) from three participating centers, diagnosed with root caries, were randomly allocated into two groups: Test ( n = 64, ♂ = 37, ♀ = 27; lesions = 144; mean age: 59.0 ± 12.1; intervention: high-fluoride toothpaste with 5000 ppm F), and Control ( n = 66, ♂ = 37, ♀ = 29; lesions = 160; mean age: 54.8 ± 13.5; intervention: regular-fluoride toothpaste with 1350 ppm F) groups. Clinical examinations and surface hardness scoring of the carious lesions were performed for each subject at specified time intervals ( T0 - at baseline before intervention, T1 - at 3 months and T2 - at 6 months after intervention). Mean surface hardness scores ( HS) were calculated for each patient. Statistical analyses comprised of two-way analysis of variance and post hoc comparisons using the Bonferroni- Dunn correction. Results At T0, there was no statistical difference between the two groups with regard to gender ( P = 0.0682, unpaired t-test), or age ( P = 0.9786, chi-squared test), and for the overall HS (Test group: HS = 3.4 ± 0.61; Control group: HS = 3.4 ± 0.66; P = 0.8757, unpaired t-test). The anova revealed significantly better HS for the test group than for the control groups ( T1: Test group: HS = 2.9 ± 0.67; Control group: HS = 3.1 ± 0.75; T2: Test group: HS = 2.4 ± 0.81; Control group: HS = 2.8 ± 0.79; P < 0.0001). However, the interaction term time-point*group was not significant. Conclusions The application of a high-fluoride containing dentifrice (5000 ppm F) in adults, twice daily, significantly improves the surface hardness of otherwise untreated root caries lesions when compared with the use of regular fluoride containing (1350 ppm F) toothpastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. It was hypothesized that, by comparing matched subjects with major differences in these dental diseases, but yet normal saliva flow rates, it would be possible to obtain data on the effect of saliva composition on dental disease isolated from the effect of the flow rate. Thus, the aim of the study was to compare the major physicochemical characteristics of stimulated whole saliva in three groups of 85 subjects, each with normal saliva flow rates and at least 24 remaining teeth. Materials and methods. A group with very little dental disease (healthy), a group with dental erosion (erosion) and a group with very high caries experience (caries) were chosen. Furthermore, the aim was to determine whether differences among groups could also be found on an individual level. Results. Although it was not possible to retrieve three groups whose members were completely identical, the present study points in the direction that, on a group level, subjects with very little dental disease seemed to have a more favorable physicochemical saliva composition with respect to higher calcium, phosphate, bicarbonate, pH, degree of saturation with respect to hydroxyapatite and a lower critical pH ( p < 0.05 or less). However, on an individual level the explanatory power for the saliva composition was only 10% for caries experience and only 11% for dental erosion ( p < 0.001). Conclusion. The compositional analyses performed in this study on stimulated whole saliva, including major physicochemical characteristics of saliva, will most likely have little predictive value for future dental caries and erosion in single individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to assess the prevalence of dental caries in children with cleft lip, alveolus, and/or cleft palate living in central Germany between 1996 and 2010. Participants: A total of 295 children 1 to 6 years of age from three birth cohorts (BC) with clefts from central Germany were included in the study. They were compared with 548 1- to 6- year-old cleft-free children from the same region. Setting: Children with clefts underwent a dental examination in an outpatient dental clinic at the University of Leipzig. The first BC was examined between 1996 and 1998, the second between 2002 and 2004, and the third between 2008 and 2010. Controls were examined at day-care centers in Leipzig during the same periods. Main Outcome Measure: The standard dental caries index for the primary dentition (dmf/t3-4) was used for clinical assessment. Results: Over the entire study period, the mean prevalence of dental caries in deciduous teeth was significantly higher (1.32 dmf/t3-4) in children with clefts compared with cleft-free children. However, a decline in caries (approximately 1 dmf/t3-4) and an increase in the proportion of children with healthy primary dentition were observed in both groups. These results represent a caries decline of 61% in children with clefts. Conclusions: Caries rates for children 1 to 6 years of age with clefts from central Germany showed a considerable decline over the last years. The caries rates for clefts patients in the third BC (2008 to 2010) was similar to that of cleft-free children in the first BC (1996 to 1998). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate caries prevalence in non-syndromic patients with cleft lip and/or palate (CLP) in comparison with a matched non-CLP population. Methods: A literature search was conducted in order to identify articles reporting on the prevalence of caries in CLP versus non-CLP individuals. The related citations function in PubMed and reference lists of retrieved articles were used to expand the search. Only studies with a suitable matched control group were included. From each included study, study and sample characteristics were extracted, as were results. The main outcome was the score given for caries prevalence in each study, using a well-defined index. The data were entered into meta-analysis software and a meta-analysis performed using the random-effects model. Results: From the 592 articles initially identified, 7 were chosen according to preset inclusion and exclusion criteria. All of the studies were cross-sectional in nature, and used the decayed, missing, and filled (DMF/dmf) indices as the final outcomes. The included studies involved a total of 474 CLP patients aged 1.5-29 years. When looking at permanent teeth, data from 5 studies suggest that CLP patients have a higher number of DMF teeth than the controls (mean difference 1.38; p = 0.003). For deciduous teeth, data from 4 studies suggest that CLP patients have a higher number of dmf teeth than the controls (mean difference 1.51; p = 0.03). Conclusion: Non-syndromic patients with CLP tend to have higher caries prevalence, both in the permanent and the deciduous dentition, in comparison with matched non-CLP controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The authors conducted a review to evaluate the current literature addressing root surface caries treatment in the vulnerable elderly, to identify any gaps in the literature that will need to be addressed in the future. The authors conducted a literature search of the electronic databases using MEDLINE, PubMed, to identify original clinical research articles regarding treatment of root caries lesions, with emphasis on research focused on the vulnerable elderly. Five articles were clinical studies of root caries restorations. Only one was conducted on a vulnerable elderly population. The results of the literature review show that there is a need for further studies addressing the restorative needs of the vulnerable elderly. With the aging of the American population, more research is needed to provide adequate care to this population. At this time, glass ionomers are a good treatment option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of dental plaque and moisture on performance of a laser fluorescence device in detecting occlusal and proximal caries lesions in primary teeth. Fifty-five occlusal and 58 proximal sites on primary molars were evaluated using a DIAGNOdent pen (LFpen) device. For the drying time study, the evaluations were performed in: (I) moist teeth; (II) teeth dried for 3 s, or (III) dried for 15 s. For the plaque study, the evaluations were done in sites: (I) without plaque; (II) with plaque, and (III) after cleaning. Evaluation of the teeth sections in stereomicroscope was the reference standard method. LF pen values, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were compared. The values obtained after 15 s of drying were higher than those obtained with moist teeth or dried for 3 s at both occlusal and proximal surfaces. However, there was no change in the performance in detecting caries lesions. With regard to the presence of plaque, there was no significant change in the readings of the device, but specificity was decreased in occlusal surfaces with plaque. At proximal surfaces, however, no significant differences were observed. In conclusion, the moisture conditions do not influence significantly the performance of the LFpen, but the presence of plaque can affect its performance in detecting occlusal caries lesions in primary teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To evaluate the effect of milk supplemented with fluoride and/or probiotic bacteria on primary root caries lesions (PRCL) in older adults. Materials and methods. After informed consent, 160 healthy subjects, 58-84 years of age, with at least two PRCL were recruited and randomly assigned to one of four parallel study groups drinking 200 ml milk once daily for 15 months. Group A consumed standard milk (placebo); Group B ingested milk supplemented with 5 ppm F and probiotic bacteria ( Lactobacillus rhamnosus LB21, 107 CFU/mL); Group C drank milk with only probiotic bacteria and group D milk contained only fluoride. Primary endpoints were Root Caries Index (RCI) and electric resistance measurements (ECM) carried out by one blinded single examiner. Secondary endpoints were mutans streptococci and lactobacilli counts in saliva and plaque estimated with chair-side tests. Data were compared within and between groups with non-parametric tests. Results. The drop out rate was 38%. At baseline there were no statistical differences between the groups. Significantly higher numbers of RCI reversals were found in groups B, C and D compared with group A ( p < 0.05). The mean ECM values increased significantly ( p < 0.05) in all groups except for the placebo group A, indicating that remineralization occurred. The effect was most beneficial in the two groups that contained fluoride. No significant alterations were displayed regarding the microbial counts. No severe adverse effects were reported during intervention. Conclusion. Daily intake of milk supplemented with fluoride and/or probiotic bacteria may reverse soft and leathery PRCL in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To date, there is no evidence that conventional remineralization techniques using calcium and phosphate ioncontaining media will completely remineralize carious lesions in regions where remnant apatite seed crystallites are absent. Conversely, guided tissue remineralization using biomimetic analogs of dentin matrix proteins is successful in remineralizing thin layers of completely demineralized dentin. The hypothesis: Conventional remineralization strategy depends on epitaxial growth over existing apatite crystallites. If there are no or few crystallites, there will be no remineralization. Guided tissue remineralization uses biomimetic analogs of dentin matrix proteins to introduce sequestered amorphous calcium phosphate nanoprecursors into the internal water compartments of collagen fibrils. Attachment of templating analogs of matrix phosphoproteins to the collagen fibrils further guided the nucleation and growth of apatite crystallites within the fibril. Such a strategy is independent of apatite seed crystallites. Our hypothesis is that 250-300 microns thick artificial carious lesions can be completely remineralized in vitro by guide tissue remineralization but not by conventional remineralization techniques. Evaluation of the hypothesis: Validation of the hypothesis will address the critical barrier to progress in remineralization of cariesaffected dentin and shift existing paradigms by providing a novel method of remineralization based on a nanotechnology-based bottomup approach. This will also generate important information to support the translation of the proof-of-concept biomimetic strategy into a clinically- relevant delivery system for remineralizing caries-affected dentin created by micro-organisms in the oral cavity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibition has been shown to reduce dentin caries progression, but its role in dental erosion has not yet been assessed. This study tested the hypothesis that gels containing MMP inhibitors (epigallocatechin gallate-EGCG and chlorhexidine) can prevent dental erosion. Volunteers (n = 10) wore palatal devices containing bovine dentin blocks (n = 10/group) treated for 1 min with EGCG at 10 (EGCG10) or 400 µM (EGCG400), chlorhexidine at 0.012%, F at 1.23% (NaF), and no vehicle (placebo). Erosion was performed with Coca-Cola® (5 min) 4X/day during 5 days. The wear, assessed by profilometry (mean ± SD, µm), was significantly reduced by the gels containing MMP inhibitors (0.05 ± 0.02a, 0.04 ± 0.02a, and 0.05 ± 0.02a for EGCG10, EGCG400, and chlorhexidine, respectively) when compared with NaF (0.79 ± 0.35b) and placebo gels (1.77 ± 0.35b) (Friedman and Dunn's tests, p < 0.01). The use of gels delivering MMP inhibitors was shown to prevent erosion and opens a new perspective for protection against dental erosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This aim of this paper is to spur a discussion of the direction of caries-lesion detection activities in clinical dental practice. It is argued that since the dental clinician's caries-related decision making is a script-matching enterprise in which clinical decisions are made on the basis of ‘this-lesion-needs-this-kind-of-treatment’ reasoning, the methods and strategies employed for caries lesion detection should accommodate this fact. This may be done by employing a clinical visual–tactile method for caries lesion detection that evaluates the two aspects that are crucial for appropriate caries management: lesion activity and surface integrity. The use of diagnostic methods that do not assess these features directly but involve assumptions about activity status and surface integrity should be avoided. This includes the use of bite-wing radiography for the detection of approximal caries lesions, as it may be shown that plain reliance on radiographs leads to considerable overtreatment. If clinical dentistry is to retain its status as a profession committed to doing good, changes in diagnostic practices along these lines are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Saliva is important for oral health, including the prevention of dental decay. The purpose of the present work was to indicate whether the parotid gland has altered function in the elderly, particularly in terms of proteins secreted, and whether its functional status could be associated with the presence of root caries. Material and methods. Ductal parotid gland secretion was obtained from 51 individuals: 21 elderly with carious roots (Patients), 20 elderly (Controls), and 10 adults (Young) without root caries. Pooled aliquots were analyzed by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry to yield lists of major proteins present in the three groups. Results. Approximately 200 unique proteins were detected, of which 73 were identified repeatedly with high confidence and therefore included in the comparison. Some of the differences observed, when comparing Patients with respectively elderly Controls and the Young, resembled changes found in patients with Sjogren's syndrome, a condition associated with dental decay. Other changes involved proteins that are likely to impact on the oral microbiota, such as the absence of dermcidin and the presence of collagen in Patients. Cystatin S, a putative indicator of caries, was present at a higher level in Patients. Conclusions. Parotid function tends to change upon aging, with possible consequences as to caries activity. However, analyses of individual samples revealed considerable variations in protein patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to analyse possible associations between caries increments and selected caries determinants in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus and their age- and sex-matched non-diabetic controls, over 2 years. A total of 63 (10–15 years old) diabetic and non-diabetic pairs were examined for dental caries, oral hygiene and salivary factors. Salivary flow rates, buffer effect, concentrations of mutans streptococci, lactobacilli, yeasts, total IgA and IgG, protein, albumin, amylase and glucose were analysed. Means of 2-year decayed/missing/filled surface (DMFS) increments were similar in diabetics and their controls. Over the study period, both unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow rates remained significantly lower in diabetic children compared to controls. No differences were observed in the counts of lactobacilli, mutans streptococci or yeast growth during follow-up, whereas salivary IgA, protein and glucose concentrations were higher in diabetics than in controls throughout the 2-year period. Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that children with higher 2-year DMFS increments were older at baseline and had higher salivary glucose concentrations than children with lower 2-year DMFS increments. Likewise, higher 2-year DMFS increments in diabetics versus controls were associated with greater increments in salivary glucose concentrations in diabetics. Higher increments in active caries lesions in diabetics versus controls were associated with greater increments of dental plaque and greater increments of salivary albumin. Our results suggest that, in addition to dental plaque as a common caries risk factor, diabetes-induced changes in salivary glucose and albumin concentrations are indicative of caries development among diabetics. Copyright © 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caries-related clinical decision-making remains a centrepiece of clinical dentistry. However, the oral disease patterns are rapidly changing towards the better among major sections of the populations, most notably in the high-income countries. The caries decline is well documented among children and younger adults, and is gradually seen to trickle into middle and old age as well. Although it is tempting for the dental profession to take the credit for this development, the evidence points in a different direction. The major contribution of dentistry seems primarily related to changes in the treatment philosophies towards a less interventionist approach. This review aims to spur a further change in the diagnostic and treatment criteria used in the management of dental caries for the benefit of the oral health status of our patients. We must come to terms with the fact that our traditional core skills, our manual dexterity and technical competence, have less to offer to oral health than we have been accustomed to think. The dental schools and the professional dental organizations must carry the responsibility for promoting the necessary changes in the caries related clinical decision-making strategies to allow practicing dentists to provide appropriate oral health care to our populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with cleft lip and/or palate (CL&/P) experience a higher caries prevalence. This study aimed to determine if patients with CL&/P, undergoing and not undergoing orthodontic treatment, have a different salivary biochemical profile and different salivary levels of Mutans Streptococci (MS) and Lactobacilli (LB) compared to patients undergoing and not undergoing orthodontic treatment without CL&/P. Methods: One hundred and ten subjects aged between 12 and 17 years were recruited into one of four different groups comprising two control groups and two treatment groups. The control groups comprised of subjects with and without CL&/P who were not undergoing orthodontic treatment. The treatment groups comprised of subjects with and without CL&/P undergoing orthodontic treatment. Regular reinforcement of oral hygiene instructions, dietary counselling and debridement, when necessary, were offered to subjects in the treatment groups following their orthodontic adjustment appointments. The salivary secretion time, pH of resting and stimulated saliva, salivary flow rate, buffering capacity, quantity of salivary MS and LB were measured. Results: Subjects with CL&/P undergoing orthodontic treatment at the Children's Oral Health Service tended to present with microbiological and salivary profiles that were less favourable for caries development. There was a significant difference in the percentage of subjects with ≥ 105 colony forming units (CFU)/mL of MS between the cleft treatment and non-cleft treatment groups. Subjects in the noncleft treatment group had the highest percentage of subjects (86.7 per cent) with ≥ 105 CFU/mL of MS whereas subjects in the cleft treatment group had the lowest percentage of subjects (60 per cent) with ≥ 105 CFU/mL of MS. For LB, there were significantly higher percentages of subjects with ≥ 105 CFU/mL of LB in the non-cleft treatment (76.7 per cent) and cleft treatment (73.3 per cent) groups compared to the non-cleft control (46.7 per cent) and cleft control (40.0 per cent) groups. Conclusions: Regular oral hygiene reinforcement and dental health education appears to have a positive effect in reducing the percentage of subjects with ≥ 105 CFU/mL of MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to critically review current knowledge about the key factors involved in oral colonization of the cariogenic group of bacteria, mutans streptococci (MS) in young children. MS, consisting mainly of the species Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, are commonly cultured from the mouths of infants, with prevalence of infection ranging from around 30 per cent in 3 month old predentate children to over 80 per cent in 24 month old children with primary teeth. MS is usually transmitted to children through their mothers, and the risk of transmission increases with high maternal salivary levels of MS and frequent inoculation. Factors that affect the colonization of MS may be divided into bacterial virulence, host-related and environmental factors. Complex interaction among these factors determine the success and timing of MS colonization in the child. As clinical studies have shown that caries risk is correlated with age at which initial MS colonization occurred, strategies for the prevention of dental caries should include timely control of colonization of the cariogenic bacteria in the mouths of young children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to monitor, by means of quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF), the natural behaviour of white spot lesions detected immediately after orthodontic treatment and 2 years post-treatment. The buccal tooth surfaces of 51 subjects (≥ 12 years), 24 males and 27 females, were examined with QLF for the presence of caries immediately after debonding (T0), and 6 weeks (T1), 6 months (T2), and 2 years (T3) thereafter. The fluorescence loss [ΔF(per cent)] and area [A (mm²)] of any lesions were determined using dedicated software. The lesion development and influence of gender were determined by a general linear model (Friedman repeated-measures analysis and two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance). Using QLF, 370 carious surfaces were recorded at T0. During the study, 19 lesions were lost from QLF analysis of which 16 lesions (ΔF0 = 7.6-39.2 per cent) in two subjects were restored and three teeth with lesions were extracted or crowned. This resulted in 351 lesions that were included in this study with a median &Fat T0 of 8.5 per cent (quartiles 6.6 per cent; 11.9 per cent). The lesions varied from incipient (ΔF < 10 per cent, n = 227) to advanced (ΔF > 25 per cent, n = 6). Overall, the lesions showed improvement between TO and T2 (P < 0.01) but no further significant improvement at T3. Thirty-five lesions became significantly worse after 2 years. The majority of lesions (n = 171) were considered to be stable, and 145 lesions improved significantly of which only 10 lesions improved to such an extent that they disappeared. White spot lesions developed during orthodontic treatment have very limited ability to improve after appliance removal Further research to investigate the potential of preventive measures to enhance lesion improvement is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The infiltration of proximal enamel lesions with low-viscosity light curing resins could be a viable approach to stop lesion progression. However, penetration of sealant might be hampered by the comparatively highly mineralized surface layers of natural lesions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of three different etching gels in removing the surface layer in various etching times. Extracted human molars and premolars showing proximal white spot lesions were cut across the demineralized areas. Ninety-six lesions expected from visual examination to be confined to the outer enamel (C1) were selected. The cut surface and half of each lesion were varnished, thus serving as control. Subsequently, the lesions were etched with either phosphoric (37%) or hydrochloric (5 or 15%) acid gel for 30–120 s (n = 8/group). Specimens were examined using confocal microscopy and transversal microradiography. Surface layer reduction was significantly increased in lesions etched with 15% HCl gel for 90 and 120 s compared to those etched with H3PO4 gel for 30–120 s (p < 0.05). No significant differences regarding the depths of erosion in the lesions compared to sound enamel could be observed (p > 0.05). An effective reduction in the surface layer of natural enamel caries can be achieved by etching with 15% hydrochloric acid gel for 90–120 s. Copyright © 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been suggested that laser fluorescence close to the dental pulp shows higher values than more distant measurements. The aim of this study was to assess fluorescence on the cavity floor and to correlate these measurements with electrical resistance as a measure of residual dentine thickness. Thirty carious lesions were excavated with a bur. The endpoint of caries removal was determined by visual, tactile and auditory means. Fluorescence was measured with the Diagnodent device and with the fluorescence feedback system of a therapeutic Er:YAG laser. Electrical resistance of the residual dentine (Prepometer units, PU) was measured with a proprietary device. Significant differences were observed between the fluorescence systems (p < 0.05). For Diagnodent, a decrease of electrical resistance of the residual dentine resulted in an increase of the fluorescence values of 2.99 units/PU (95% CI = 2.00–3.97) and an increase of 0.30 units/PU (95% CI = 0.19–0.40) for the fluorescence feedback system. For zero electrical resistance, a predicted maximum value of 51.5 units (95% CI = 41.3–61.7) was calculated for the Diagnodent and 5.1 units (95% CI = 4.1–6.2) for the feedback system. The study indicates that using the suggested detection cut-off with the Diagnodent device may be not suited to assess the endpoint of caries removal close to the dental pulp. Employing the Key Laser III, values up to 6 units might be caused solely by close proximity to the pulp, which should be considered when caries removal by laser is controlled by laser fluorescence feedback. Copyright © 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses specifically on matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their role in physiological and pathological extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and degradation processes in the oral environment. A group of enzymes capable of degrading almost all ECM proteins, MMPs contribute to both normal and pathological tissue remodeling. The expression of different MMPs may be upregulated in pathological conditions such as inflammation and tumor invasion. The balance between activated MMPs and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) controls the extent of ECM remodeling. Prior to mineralization, MMPs may participate in the organization of enamel and dentin organic matrix, or they may regulate mineralization by controlling the proteoglycan turnover. There is evidence indicating that MMPs could be involved in the etiology of enamel fluorosis and amelogenesis imperfecta. They seem to play a part in dentinal caries progression, since they have a crucial role in dentin collagen breakdown in caries lesions. MMPs have been identified in pulpal and periapical inflammation and are strongly correlated with periodontal diseases, since they are the major players in collagen breakdown during periodontal tissue destruction. The use of MMP inhibitors could help the prevention and treatment of many MMP-related oral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive, quantitative method for investigating changes in enamel mineralization of specimens subjected to in vitro or in situ experimentation is presented. The fluorescence-detecting instrument integrates a Xenon arc light source and an object positioning stage, which makes it particularly suitable for the nondestructive assessment of demineralized or remineralized enamel. We demonstrate the ability of in vitro quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) to quantify changes in mineralization of bovine enamel discs that had been exposed in vitro to a demineralizing gel ( n=36) or biofilm-mediated demineralization challenges ( n=10), or were carried in situ by three volunteers during a 10-day experiment ( n=12). Further experiments show the technique's value for monitoring the extent of remineralization in 36 specimens exposed in vitro to oral multispecies biofilms and document the repeatability of in vitro QLF measurements ( n=10) under standardized assay conditions. The validity of the method is illustrated by comparison with transversal microradiography (TMR), the invasive current gold standard for assessing experimental changes in enamel mineralization. Ten discs with 22 measurement areas for comparison demonstrated a positive correlation between TMR and QLF ( r=0.82). Filling a technological gap, this QLF system is a promising tool to assay in vitro nondestructively localized changes in mineralization of enamel specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship among type 1 diabetes mellitus, dental caries, and salivary status in children. The study comprised 68, 10–15-yr-old diabetics, and 68, age- and gender-matched non-diabetic controls. Diabetics were categorized into well-to-moderately controlled (HbA1c < 9.0%) and poorly controlled (HbA1c ≥ 9.0%) groups. Caries was recorded by assessing lesion activity at non-cavitated and cavity levels. Teeth were examined visually for the presence of dental plaque. Saliva was analyzed for unstimulated and stimulated flow rates, buffer effect, mutans streptococci, lactobacilli, and yeasts. Diabetics had fewer caries and plaque, lower salivary flow rates and buffer effect, and more frequent growth of yeasts than their non-diabetic controls. Well-to-moderately controlled diabetics had fewer decayed surfaces and lower counts of mutans streptococci and yeasts than poorly controlled diabetics, but the level of metabolic control of diabetes had no influence on salivary flow rates and buffer effect. High caries levels in diabetics were significantly associated with age, plaque score, and decreased unstimulated salivary flow rate, but were not associated with the level of metabolic control of diabetes. High caries experience in this study population could be related to plaque accumulation and/or to changes in saliva induced by diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this clinical study was to compare the outcome of quantitative laser/light-induced fluorescence (QLF) and visual inspection (VI) for the detection of initial caries lesions on all maxillary and mandibular smooth surfaces in caries-risk adolescents. The subjects were 34 students, mean age 15 yr. A total of 879 buccal and 882 lingual surfaces were air-dried and visually examined at a magnification of ×3.5. Fluorescence images of each smooth surface were captured with QLF\clin equipment, and QLF software 2.00 was used to display, store, and analyse the images. Fluorescence loss ( ΔF; %) and area of the lesion (A; mm2), and fluorescence loss integrated over the lesion area ( ΔQ; ΔF × A; % × mm2) , were determined. The presence or absence of initial caries lesions was scored using both VI and QLF. A total of 87.2% of all smooth surfaces were scored as sound or initially carious when assessed by VI+QLF in combination: 4.9% were detected by VI alone and 7.9% by QLF alone. The parameters ΔF, A, and ΔQ differed significantly between lesions registered with VI+QLF and QLF alone. It was concluded that (i) QLF seems to be a sensitive method that is suitable for the detection of visually undetected initial caries lesions; and (ii) that the clinical use of QLF is limited by several confounding factors in caries-risk adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To establish a fluorescence threshold level that could guide a therapeutic Er:YAG laser through a caries lesion to determine a therapeutic endpoint of caries removal. Materials and Methods: A total of 65 extracted human teeth, 35 with dentine caries and 30 healthy, were used for this study. An Er:YAG laser system that emitted at a wavelength of 2.94 μm was used. The laser was equipped with a laser fluorescence feedback system, excitation wavelength 655 nm, to control the irradiation by the Er:YAG laser. The evaluated threshold levels of the fluorescence feedback system were 3, 7, 8, 10, 12, 15 and 20. After treatment the teeth were prepared for histological staining according to the method of Brown and Brenn for the identification of bacteria. The specimens were subjected to a quantitative evaluation of residual bacteria on the treated dentine surface. In addition, the internal fluorescence of dentine and potential fluorescence changes of dentine after laser irradiation were evaluated. Results: About 80% of the irradiated dentine surface showed residual bacteria with threshold levels of 20, 15, 12, and 10. Residual bacteria were not found with threshold levels of 7 and 3. The study revealed a significant increase in dentine fluorescence after laser irradiation. Conclusion: The results of the present in vitro study indicate that a fluorescence threshold level of 7 or 8 units can guide an Er:YAG laser to a complete removal of carious dentine. Copyright © 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tranæus S, Shi X-Q, Angmar-Månsson B. Caries risk assessment: methods available to clinicians for caries detection. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2005; 33: 265–73. © Blackwell Munksgaard, 2005 It is hypothesized that occlusal lesions are initiated on the fissure walls and can therefore be obscured by sound superficial tissue. Additionally, there is evidence that one effect of regular use of fluorides is greater opacity of enamel, which may obscure underlying lesions in dentin, the so-called ‘hidden lesions’. Dental radiographs are inadequate for detecting decay in the occlusal surfaces until the lesion is well advanced through the enamel and into the dentin. The clinician relies on visual observation of texture and discoloration, clinical judgment based upon experience, and on tactile sense by probing with an explorer. An objective detection method to complement the traditional visual assessment is used by the clinician for arriving at clinical decisions on the management of the carious lesion: whether invasive therapy or a more conservative, noninvasive approach. Objective and reliable longitudinal monitoring of the lesion's response to preventive measures allow the selection of an appropriate therapy before the lesion progresses to the stage where invasive treatment is required. This paper discusses the problem of the lack of appropriate clinical methods for the detection and quantification of carious lesions. A few commercially available methods are described (the quantitative light-induced fluorescence method, the DIAGNOdent device, and electrical caries monitor) and some new techniques mentioned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to study remineralization in dentin underneath a biofilm. This was done in a constant depth film fermentor (CDFF) which was modified so that two treatments can be applied simultaneously in one experiment. Forty-five Streptococcus mutans biofilms were grown in grooves in dentin. Growth medium (3.7 g/l BHI, 1.5 mM calcium and 25 mM PIPES) was administered alternately with 2% sucrose pulsing 4 × 30 min/day. Fluoride at 135 ppm as NaF only or in a mixture with 0.2% chlorhexidine was applied for 2 × 5 min/day. The treatments started 5 days after inoculation and lasted 15 days. Five specimens per group were removed at various time points. The biofilms were checked for viability (by plating) and acid content (by capillary electrophoresis). The dentin specimens were analysed for mineral loss and lesion depth (by transversal microradiography). Fluoride treatment had no effect on the viability but reduced lactic acid production by 75%. The mixture treatment reduced the viability by 80% and the lactic acid content by 93% on the first day and later reduced the two parameters to below the detection limits. Significant differences in changes in mineral loss and lesion depth were observed between the treatment groups. Partial remineralization but deeper lesions were observed in the fluoride group, while nearly complete remineralization was seen in the mixture group. In conclusion, the CDFF S. mutans biofilm model can be used as a de- and remineralization biofilm model, and the split mode is particularly suitable for testing caries-preventive agents. Copyright © 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]