Evaluating the protective effect of a nano-emulsion containing propolis and nigella sativa nano-particles on enamel surface

Background and aim: Due to the lack of available data, the aim of the current study includes the protective effect of a nano-emulsion containing Nigella Sativa (NS) and Propolis extract (comparing the macroscale and nanoscale form) on the mineral content of enamel after tooth brushing.Methods and materials: In this experimental study, 6 human premolars were sectioned buccolingually and the specimens were randomly divided into four groups treated with either bulk or nanoparticles of propolis, nano-emulsion, and none (as control). The treatment procedure was seven consecutive days while the specimens were etched and brushed every day. The Ca and P content of the enamel surface were quantified by EDX/SEM while the surface roughness was recorded by profilometer. Moreover, the SEM micrographs of the specimens were captured. In the end, analyzing the data was done using One Way ANOVA, LSD post Hoc (=0.05).Results: The Ca and P content of the groups had significant differences with each other (P= 0.000 and 0.000). On the other hand, the surface roughness of the experimental groups had no significant difference with each other (0.27).Conclusion: The beneficial effect of both NS+Propolis as a barrier on tooth surface was confirmed. However, their effect on the mineral content of enamel is still questionable.