The effectiveness of jackfruit seed paste (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamk) as an alternative to enamel remineralization (in vitro)

Background: Enamel as the hardest layer of teeth is susceptible to acid attack which can cause demineralization. This triggers a chemical reaction to release calcium ions from the tooth enamel which causes a decrease in the hardness of the enamel sur-face. Calcium and phosphate ions are minerals that can inhibit demineralization and increase remineralization. The 5% calcium and 20% phosphate content in jackfruit seeds has the potential to be used as a tooth remineralization material. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of the application of jackfruit seed paste (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamk) as an alternative remi-neralization agent to increase enamel surface hardness. Method: This experimental laboratory study was conducted using 32 maxillary first premolar teeth. All samples were immersed in cola carbonated drink (2 minutes). Samples in each group were treated (30 minutes) with the application of jackfruit seed paste (group I) and CPP-ACP paste (group II). The Vickers Hardness Number (VHN) test was performed on the surface of the initial tooth enamel, after soaking in cola carbonated drinks and after treatment. Results: The enamel surface hardness significantly increased after treatment in groups I and II. Conclusion: The application of jackfruit seed paste was effective in increasing enamel surface hardness.