Effects of polyaspartic acid on remineralization of intrafibrillar dentin and size of hydroxyapatite crystals

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the intrafibrillar remineralization process and the size of hydroxyapatite crystals formed. Methods: The samples were divided into four groups. The control group was immersed in a demineralization solution, whereas the remaining three treatment groups were immersed in a remineralization solution containing polyaspartic acid for 3, 7, or 14 days. The effect of polyaspartic acid on intrafibrillar remineralization during the polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) process was evaluated using transmission electron microscopy, and the size of hydroxyapatite crystals was examined through X-ray diffraction. Results: Significant differences were detected in the intrafibrillar remineralization between the treatment groups (subjected to remineralization for 3, 7, and 14 days) and the demineralized dentin control group. However, no significant differences were detected in the size of hydroxyapatite crystals between the control and the treatment groups. Conclusion: Our data suggest that polyaspartic acid enables intrafibrillar remineralization during the PILP process.