A theoretical study of in vivo lesion repair using a controlled-release device

A theoretical model of lesion remineralization predicts that in vivo caries repair can be effected in a five-day period by means of a controlled- and sustained-release device containing calcium, phosphate, and fluoride. The calculations detail an 80% repair before the remineralization process stops. However, the fluoridated hydroxyapatite formed is calculated to be about 20% more resistant to future attack than is hydroxyapatite, making effective repair complete. Optimal flux (W) conditions for repair of 100 microns lesions are WCa = 1.0 X 10(-6) kg/m2s, stoichiometric phosphate, and WF = 2.0 X 10(-9) kg/m2s.