Chapter 4: Microelements: Part I: Zn, Sn, Cu, Fe and I

Area of Science:

• Oral Health
• Nutritional Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Microelements are vital dietary components.
• Deficiencies can lead to health issues, necessitating supplements.
• Their role in oral health is complex due to low concentrations and interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of zinc, copper, iron, tin, and iodine on oral health.
• To explore their impact on dental caries and related processes.
• To assess their potential in oral hygiene products and treatments.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of microelement effects on oral health.
• Analysis of studies on antibacterial properties and ion concentrations.
• Examination of research on de- and remineralization processes.

Main Results:

• Zinc and tin show significant potential in managing dental caries by affecting de- and remineralization.
• These elements, particularly zinc, can reduce enamel dissolution and inhibit calculus formation.
• Copper and iron demonstrate anti-caries effects in animal models, while iron reduces enamel erosion.
• Iodine exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial properties, but clinical evidence for oral conditions is limited.

Conclusions:

• Zinc and tin are valuable in oral hygiene products due to their anti-caries properties.
• While other microelements show promise, more robust clinical validation is required, especially for iodine.
• Understanding microelement interactions is key to optimizing their oral health benefits.