Abstract:
Introduction: Arginine is a natural component of human saliva, which has recently been incorporated in dentifrices treating teeth sensitivity, and acts as a protective factor against caries. This study evaluated the effect of two different concentrations of arginine; 2.5% and 8% on fluoride uptake by demineralized enamel surfaces.
Methods: 80 specimens, obtained from 40 human premolars, were divided randomly into 4 equal groups (n=20 per group): (GI=negative control) ,Group II (GII=positive control) treated by sodium fluoride (NaF500 ppmf), Group III treated by combination of sodium fluoride solution (NaF 500 ppmf) + arginine solution (2.5%), and Group IV treated by combination of sodium fluoride solution (NaF 500 ppmf) + arginine solution (8%). Microhardness was tested using Vickers microhardness test, In addition to imaging using Environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM), and minerals content was assessed using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) . Statistical analysis was performed utilizing Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk tests for normality of data, Levene's tests for homogeneity, and one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc tests.
Results: The highest mean microhardness was in group III (370.58±12.14) and group IV (370.22±8.24). An increase in mineral density was found in Group IV, followed by group III, then group II and group I, as revealed by ESEM. Data analysis showed increase in fluoride concentration in group III followed by group IV, group II and group I with a mean value (17.59±1.33), (14.62±1.91), (13.57±2.29), and (14.32±2.13) respectively.
Conclusion: Fluoride uptake of demineralized enamel is increased when using both concentrations of arginine .