DEMINERALIZATION AND REMINERALISATION OF TOOTH ENAMEL: MODERN METHODS OF PREVENTING THE INITIAL STAGE OF CARIES

Abstract

Dental caries is one of the most common oral diseases and its development begins with mineral loss from dental hard tissues. In the initial stage, caries may manifest as a white spot lesion on the enamel surface. At this stage, the process can potentially be arrested or reversed by promoting remineralization and controlling demineralization. This article reviews the structure and mineral composition of dental enamel, mechanisms of demineralization and remineralization, and modern preventive approaches involving fluoride, hydroxyapatite, nano-hydroxyapatite and calcium-phosphate-based agents. Current evidence supports fluoride as an important component of caries prevention, while hydroxyapatite-based materials are being increasingly investigated as promising preventive and remineralizing agents. Early detection and non-invasive management of initial enamel lesions may help preserve natural tooth structure and reduce the need for restorative treatment.