Surface Enamel Remineralization: Biomimetic Apatite Nanocrystals and Fluoride Ions Different Effects

A new method for altered enamel surface remineralization has been proposed. To this aim carbonate-hydroxyapatite nanocrystals which mimic for composition, structure, nanodimensions, and morphology dentine apatite crystals and resemble closely natural apatite chemical-physical properties have bee...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Norberto Roveri, Elisa Battistella, Claudia Letizia Bianchi, Ismaela Foltran, Elisabetta Foresti, Michele Iafisco, Marco Lelli, Alberto Naldoni, Barbara Palazzo, Lia Rimondini
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Hindawi Limited 2009-01-01
Series:Journal of Nanomaterials
Online Access:http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2009/746383
Description
Summary:A new method for altered enamel surface remineralization has been proposed. To this aim carbonate-hydroxyapatite nanocrystals which mimic for composition, structure, nanodimensions, and morphology dentine apatite crystals and resemble closely natural apatite chemical-physical properties have been used. The results underline the differences induced by the use of fluoride ions and hydroxyapatite nanocrystals in contrasting the mechanical abrasions and acid attacks to which tooth enamel is exposed. Fluoride ions generate a surface modification of the natural enamel apatite crystals increasing their crystallinity degree and relative mechanical and acid resistance. On the other hand, the remineralization produced by carbonate-hydroxyapatite consists in a deposition of a new apatitic mineral into the eroded enamel surface scratches. A new biomimetic mineral coating, which progressively fills and shadows surface scratches, covers and safeguards the enamel structure by contrasting the acid and bacteria attacks.
ISSN:1687-4110
1687-4129