Remineralization of Initial Carious Lesions Using Peptides: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Research
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Initial carious lesions are reversible, offering opportunities for non-operative management to preserve tooth structure.
• Peptide-based approaches are emerging as novel strategies for dental hard tissue regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review peptide-based interventions for managing initial carious lesions, focusing on self-assembling peptides.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of these peptides in promoting enamel remineralization.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of PubMed and reference lists.
• Inclusion of randomized clinical trials and controlled clinical studies.
• Analysis guided by the PICOS framework (Patients, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Study design).

Main Results:

• Peptide strategies can mimic natural biomineralization, fostering subsurface hydroxyapatite formation.
• The self-assembling peptide P11-4 is well-studied, demonstrating safety and potential for remineralization.
• P11-4 may offer benefits over fluoride in specific cases for early caries management.

Conclusions:

• Peptide-based approaches, particularly P11-4, are promising adjuncts for minimally invasive caries management.
• Further long-term clinical studies are required to establish their role in routine dental practice.