Enamel Remineralization Effect using Dewaxed Shellac Varnishes with Added Carbonate Apatite and Tricalcium Phosphate

Dental varnish is proven to prevent tooth demineralization, while remineralization effect on previous studies has not been tested. Remineralization may occur naturally in the oral cavity and the process will be optimal if remineralization agents such as carbonate apatite (CO3Ap) and α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) were added.The aim of this present study is to investigate the dewaxed shellac varnishes with added CO3Ap and α-TCP can remineralize enamel. All teeth samples were divided into two groups. The first group (group A) was dewaxed shellac varnishes without added CO3Ap and α-TCP, and the second group (group B) was dewaxed shellac varnishes with added CO3Ap and α-TCP. The SEM results of group A samples showed smooth and homogeneous surface. Whereas the results of group B samples showed rough surface. The EDS results of all groups showed high element of carbon (C), however, group B there were calcium (Ca) and phosphate (P) elements. Varnish has good penetration ability so that the microporosity of all samples can be covered. The only difference is the surface of group B where there were granules from CO3Ap and α-TCP. The high carbon element (C) was due to shellac’s composition. While the appearance of calcium (Ca) and phosphate (P) in sample B is increased because of the CO3Ap and α-TCP. This study concludes that varnish from dewaxed shellac raw material with added CO3Ap and α-TCP could be synthesized and potentially remineralized enamel.