Comparative efficacy of two biomimetic materials in re-hardening artificially demineralized enamel tooth surface

With the rising prevalence of dental caries and enamel erosion, there is an urgent need for effective remineralization strategies. This study investigates and compares the re-mineralizing potential of two innovative biomimetic materials: polyamidoamine-modified phosphate groups (PAMAM-PO3H2) and 8DSS peptides, focusing on their effects on enamel microhardness. A total of 38 extracted premolar teeth were used, with two randomly selected teeth one kept intact and the other demineralized for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The remaining 36 teeth were divided into three groups (n = 12) for different treatments: (1) a negative control group with no treatment, (2) a group treated with 2.5% PAMAM-modified phosphate, and (3) a group treated with 25 μM 8DSS peptide. Each treatment was applied once daily for 1 minute. Surface microhardness and microstructural changes were analyzed for sound enamel, after demineralization, and following treatment. Both PAMAM-PO3H2 and 8DSS significantly improved enamel hardness and restored the enamel surface to a state comparable to that of intact enamel. Although 8DSS demonstrated a higher remineralization effect, the difference between the two materials was not statistically significant. Nonetheless, 8DSS showed potential as a superior agent in preventing enamel demineralization and promoting its remineralization. The findings highlight the effectiveness of these biomimetic materials in rebuilding hydroxyapatite crystals, emphasizing their promise in enhancing dental care and improving overall oral health outcomes.