Changes in Early Caries Lesions on Enamel according to Microcosm Biofilm Maturity

Objective: In this study, we attempt to mature biofilms using a microcosm biofilm model and analyze early carious lesions formed on enamel based on the degree of biofilm maturation. Methods: Bovine tooth specimens were inoculated with saliva, immersed in basal mucin medium containing 1% sucrose, and cultured in an anaerobic pack. The Red/Green ​​and ΔF values ​​of biofilms and lower carious lesion images captured on days 7, 10, and 14 using QLF-D were analyzed. Results: The biofilms show darker red fluorescence over time. The carious lesion under the biofilm indicate a ΔF of -7.33±1.10 at 14 d. However, no demineralization is observed after 7 or 10 d. Conclusions: Artificial carious lesions utilizing microcosm biofilms are expected to facilitate similar studies involving actual carious lesions containing bacteria.