In vivo dentin microhardness beneath a calcium-phosphate cement

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomaterials Science
• Cariology

Background:

• Minimally invasive caries removal preserves dentin.
• Mineral-releasing cements can promote dentin remineralization.
• Indirect pulp capping aims to maintain pulp vitality.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate the in vivo remineralization of caries-affected dentin using resin-based calcium-phosphate cement (Ca-PO(4)).
• Assess the effect of acid etching on the remineralization capacity of the cement.

Main Methods:

• Permanent teeth indicated for extraction were excavated and restored with or without Ca-PO(4) base.
• Teeth were restored with adhesive restorations.
• After 3 months in vivo, teeth were extracted for in vitro microhardness analysis of the cavity floor.

Main Results:

• Caries-affected dentin treated with acid etching prior to Ca-PO(4) cement showed significantly increased Knoop microhardness.
• The non-etched Ca-PO(4) group showed similar results to the control (no cement).
• Acid etching enhanced the microhardness of residual dentin near the interface.

Conclusions:

• Acid etching prior to Ca-PO(4) cement application enhances dentin remineralization and microhardness.
• This technique shows promise for preserving and repairing caries-affected dentin.
• Resin-based Ca-PO(4) cement is a viable option for indirect pulp capping when combined with appropriate surface treatment.