Comparative In Vitro Study on the Demineralization Potential of Different Milk Types on Primary Teeth

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Dental Materials Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Milk is crucial for infant nutrition and has potential roles in enamel health.
• Lactose in milk can be fermented, potentially leading to caries under certain conditions.
• Understanding milk's impact on dental health is vital due to widespread consumption by children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the influence of different milk types on primary teeth's dental health.
• To compare the demineralization potential of human breast milk, bovine milk, infant formula, and soy milk.
• To assess the effects on enamel mineral content, pH, and microhardness.

Main Methods:

• 40 primary incisors were analyzed for initial mineral content and pH.
• Teeth were immersed in four different milk types: human breast milk, bovine milk, infant formula, and soy milk.
• Post-immersion analysis included mineral content, pH, and microhardness testing.

Main Results:

• Calcium content increased in all milk types, with the highest gain observed in breast milk.
• Significant pH drops and reduced hardness were noted with infant formula and soy milk.
• Infant formula also led to mineral loss from the enamel.

Conclusions:

• Human breast milk and bovine milk demonstrated a protective effect on enamel.
• These protective effects were evidenced by increased calcium, stable pH, and higher microhardness.
• Soy milk and infant formula showed demineralizing potential, negatively impacting enamel integrity.