Enamel protection after stripping procedures: An in vivo study

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Interproximal enamel reduction (IPR) is crucial for non-extraction orthodontic treatments.
• IPR can compromise enamel integrity, increasing risks of cavities and hypersensitivity.
• Remineralizing agents are recommended to mitigate these adverse effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the changes in stripped proximal dental surfaces over 4 months.
• To evaluate the efficacy of fluoride protection on these surfaces.

Main Methods:

• 14 premolars from 6 patients undergoing orthodontic treatment were analyzed.
• Teeth were divided into groups: intact enamel, intact enamel with fluoride, IPR, IPR without fluoride, and IPR with fluoride.
• Scanning electron microscopy and Dispersive Energy Spectroscopy were used for analysis.

Main Results:

• Stripped surfaces retained irregularities after 4 months, with or without fluoride.
• Both groups showed improved mineral element percentages.
• Fluoride varnish group exhibited calcium and phosphorus levels similar to intact enamel.

Conclusions:

• Fluoride varnish application on stripped enamel surfaces aids in mineral element restoration.
• Fluoride protection can help maintain enamel integrity post-IPR.
• This suggests fluoride varnish is beneficial for managing side effects of IPR.