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Functional remineralization of dentin lesions using polymer-induced liquid-precursor process.
Anora K Burwell1, Taili Thula-Mata, Laurie B Gower
1Department of Preventive and Restorative Dental Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America.
Plos One
|June 22, 2012
Summary
The polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) system effectively remineralized artificial caries lesions, restoring mechanical properties. This biomimetic approach shows promise for dentin repair and regeneration.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Research
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Dental caries involves demineralization of tooth structure.
- Restoring mechanical properties of demineralized dentin is crucial for functional repair.
- Current remineralization strategies have limitations in fully restoring dentin's integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the time-dependent functional remineralization of artificial caries lesions using the polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) system.
- To assess the restoration of mechanical properties in demineralized dentin matrix.
- To characterize the mineral deposition and structural changes during PILP remineralization.
Main Methods:
- Artificial caries lesions (140 µm deep) were remineralized using the PILP system with poly-L-aspartic acid for 7-28 days at 37°C.
- Nanomechanical properties (reduced elastic modulus) were measured using nanoindentation.
- Mineral profiles were analyzed by micro X-ray computed tomography.
- Morphological and crystallographic analyses were performed using SEM, EDX, TEM, and SAED.
Main Results:
- PILP remineralization significantly improved the reduced elastic modulus (E(R)) of artificial lesions over time, reaching 91% improvement after 28 days.
- Mechanical property recovery was observed in both the outer and sloped regions of the lesions.
- Micro-CT showed mineral recovery, with full mineral recovery occurring after 14 days.
- TEM and SAED revealed increased intrafibrillar mineral with improved crystallinity and orientation similar to native dentin.
Conclusions:
- The PILP system facilitates time-dependent functional remineralization of artificial caries lesions.
- This method effectively restores the nanomechanical properties of demineralized dentin.
- PILP-mediated remineralization leads to improved mineral content, crystallinity, and structural organization, offering a promising avenue for dentin repair.