Bioactive glass for dentin remineralization: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Research
• Materials Science

Background:

• Dentin remineralization is crucial for restorative dentistry, aiming to restore tissue functionality.
• Bioactive glasses (BAGs) are investigated for their apatite-forming ability, making them potential candidates for dentin remineralization.
• Successful remineralization requires not only apatite formation but also the restoration of mechanical properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the existing evidence on the efficacy of bioactive glass (BAG) in remineralizing dentin.
• To assess whether BAG treatment leads to functional recovery of dentin, particularly concerning its mechanical integrity.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across Web of Science, PubMed, and Science Direct databases.
• Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, following PRISMA guidelines.
• Full-text articles were scrutinized to synthesize findings on BAG's effect on dentin remineralization and mechanical properties.

Main Results:

• All three included studies demonstrated that BAG treatment enhances apatite formation in dentin.
• However, only one study reported on mechanical properties, showing reduced Young's modulus and flexural strength in BAG-treated dentin compared to natural dentin.
• Despite similar apatite content, the mechanical integrity of BAG-treated dentin was compromised.

Conclusions:

• While BAGs effectively stimulate apatite formation in dentin, this alone is insufficient to confirm successful remineralization.
• Further research is essential to evaluate the mechanical properties of BAG-treated dentin to ensure functional restoration.
• Current evidence suggests that bioactive glass may not be a fully effective remineralizing agent for dentin due to unaddressed mechanical deficits.