Effect of Different Formulations and Application Methods of Coral Calcium on its Remineralization Ability on Carious Enamel

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Coral calcium is a new biomimetic product and dietary supplement which consists mainly of alkaline calcium carbonate. AIM: The aim of the current study is to compare the remineralization effect of coral calcium in different formulations and application methods. METHODS: A total of 35 extracted molars was collected, examined, and sectioned to obtain 70 sound enamel discs, all specimens were examined for calcium mineral content using energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDAX) coupled with scanning electron microscope. Hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles were synthesized through wet chemical precipitation approach and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis. Teeth specimens were subjected to demineralization, and mineral content was measured, specimens were divided into ten groups according to the remineralizing agent used, where Groups 1–3 used 10, 20, and 30 weight % (wt.%) coral calcium gel, respectively, Groups 4–6 used 10, 20, and 30 wt.% coral calcium and nanohydroxyapatite mix gel, and Groups 7–9 used 10, 20, and 30 wt.% coral calcium with argon laser activation and Group 10 (control group) without a remineralizing agent. All groups were re-examined by EDAX after remineralization. RESULTS: The TEM and FT-IR analysis confirmed the formation of rod shape HA in nanoparticles size range. All groups showed a statistically significant decrease in calcium level after demineralization, all groups showed a statistically significant increase in calcium content after remineralization except for the control group. Moreover, Groups 2 and 8 showed the highest increase in calcium level after remineralization. CONCLUSION: Coral calcium showed a significant remineralizing effect on carious enamel (demineralization) with an optimum concentration of 20 wt.%.