Remineralizing Effect and Ion Release of Pearl Powder versus Casein Phosphopeptide Amorphous Calcium Phosphate on Non-cavitated Initial Enamel Lesions: An In Vitro Study

Aim: To investigate the remineralization potential and ion release of pearl powder versus casein phosphopeptide amorphus calcium phosphate paste (CPP-ACP) on artificial initial enamel lesions using laser fluorescence analysis. Material and Methods: Twenty-four extracted sound human molars were distributed randomly to two groups (n=12) based on the remineralizing agent, Group 1: pearl powder gel and Group 2: CPP-ACP paste. Quantitative measurements using DIAGNOdent pen were performed at baseline, after demineralization, after two weeks and four weeks remineralization. The ion release of each remineralizing agent was assessed to detect different released analytes. Data was statistically analyzed with significance level (P≤0.05) where intergroup comparison using independent t test and intragroup comparison using repeated measures ANOVA followed by Bonferroni correction was performed. Results: No statistically significant difference was observed between both groups at baseline, after demineralization and two weeks remineralization (P>0.05) while a significant difference was found after four weeks remineralization (P=0.0137). Intragroup comparison revealed a significant difference with time (P<0.001). Ion release revealed that calcium, sodium and strontium analytes were detected in both groups. Conclusion: Pearl powder demonstrated comparable remineralization potential to CPP-ACP, acting as a promising regimen in treating initial enamel lesions. Additionally, repeated application helped gain more remineralizing results from the applied agents.