Remineralization

By Savitha Deepthi Yannam, BDS, MDS, MSD and Dhiraj Mallela, BDS Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a developmental and qualitative enamel defect caused by reduced mineralization and inorganic enamel components that lead to enamel discoloration and fractures of the affected teeth.1 This condition involves permanent first molars and incisors, and presents as demarcated lesions that range from creamy-white to...

By Danielle Furgeson, RDH, MS, DHSc, Elizabeth I. Pitts, RDH, MS The development of dental caries is a multifactorial, dynamic process. The constant cycle of the demineralization/remineralization processes can be positively or negatively impacted by a variety of oral and systemic factors. Assessing caries risk status and identifying appropriate remineralization therapies for those deemed high risk are key to improving...

By Martha McComas, RDH, MS Dental caries is a multifactorial disease where the enamel layer of the tooth becomes demineralized. If the deminerali­zation process is not interrupted and reversed, a carious lesion forms, leading to the exposure of less mineralized and permeable dentin.1,2 It is well established that dental caries disease is a transmissible, infectious, and preventable oral infection.3–5 Dental caries...

Sports and energy drinks are designed to prevent dehydration and replenish energy, but they also contribute to the demineralization of tooth enamel.

By Brigette R. Cooper, RDH, MS, Trisha Krenik-Matejcek, RDH, MS Dental professionals must understand the dynamics of caries in order to effectively educate their patients and provide oral health education tailored to each individual. Caries is caused by the interaction of fermentable carbohydrates and biofilm with the tooth surface. Bacteria, specifically Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species, meta­bolize the dietary carbohydrates and produce acid...

By Jessica Fagan, RDH, BS, MA, Diana Macri, RDH, BSDH, MSEd A radiolucency in tooth enamel or dentin no longer automatically indicates that a dental restoration is needed. Rather than potentially compromising a tooth’s structural integrity (or pulpal health) by preparing a site for a conventional dental restoration, tactics aimed at remineralizing sites with shallow caries often make better...