Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate nanocomplexes (CPP-ACP) exhibit anticariogenic potential in laboratory, animal and human experiments. The remineralising potential of synthetic CPPs on early enamel caries was investigated. DESIGN: In vivo study. SETTING: University of Naples 'Federico II', School of Dentistry, Department of Paediatric Dentistry, 2010, Italy. PARTICIPANTS: 40 volunteers (age range 10-16 years) were recruited and divided in two groups of 20 (Group A and B). INTERVENTIONS: In Group A subjects two demineralised enamel specimens were placed on the buccal surfaces of the first molars and subjects were instructed to apply a commercial product containing CPPs (GC Tooth Mousse) only on the right-sided specimen and a placebo mousse on the left, for 1 month. In Group B subjects two enamel specimens were similarly placed into the mouth and used as controls. RESULTS: SEM analysis revealed a diffuse and homogeneous mineral coating, reducing the surface alterations only in the demineralised specimens treated with synthetic CPPs into the mouth. CONCLUSIONS: Results demonstrate that CPPs are able to promote remineralisation of early enamel lesions.