Morphological and porosity changes in primary enamel surface after an in vitro demineralization model

In vitro models are very useful in dentistry, especially to evaluate preventive methods against dental caries. Although they have been used for more than 30 years, specific demineralization models have not been established for primary enamel, which is more prone to demineralization than permanent enamel. This study evaluates porosity changes in primary enamel surface after a demineralization model through a scientifically validated analytical tool. Nine healthy human anterior primary teeth extracted for therapeutic reasons were included in this study, previous informed consent. The samples were randomly assigned to three groups n = 3: G1_2D, G2_4D, and G3_7D. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images at ×200 and ×1000 were taken during two stages: before demineralization (BD) and after demineralization (AD). Morphological characterization was observed at ×1000, while porosity (pore count and perimeter) was analyzed by the ImageJ program, using ×200 SEM images previously converted. Several statistical analyses were used to determine differences (p ≤ .05). Morphological characterization AD revealed new pits and cracks on the enamel surface in G1_2D and G2_4D groups. Localized eroded enamel areas were observed in G3_7D. Pore count of enamel surface BD ranged from 64.26 ± 37.62 to 97.93 ± 34.25 and AD ranged from 150.06 ± 64.86 to 256 ± 58.14. AD, G_4D exhibited a decrease in pore perimeter contrary to G_2D and G_7D. Significant differences were observed. Finally, morphological changes were more evident as days of demineralization increased; 7 days of immersion could be employed as an enamel erosive model. The pore count increased after the demineralization model, BD pores perimeter was heterogeneous, and AD varied according to the immersion period. Morphological changes were more evident as days of demineralization increased. Seven days of immersion could be employed as an enamel erosive model. The initial porosity seems to be a determining factor for the final porousness. The pore perimeter of the primary enamel varied according to the immersion period on the demineralization model.