REMINERALIZATION POTENTIAL OF NANOEMULSION-BASED AMORPHOUS CALCIUM PHOSPHATE AND ESSENTIAL OILS ON DEMINERALIZED ENAMEL: INVITRO STUDY

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Oral Biology department, MSA University

2 Biotechnology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University

3 Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University

4 Restorative Dentistry - October University for modern Sciences and Arts (MSA)

5 Implantology department, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University

Abstract

Background: Dental caries remains one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide, driven by a complex interplay between acidogenic bacteria, fermentable carbohydrates, and susceptible tooth surfaces. Traditional fluoride-based therapies are effective, but face concerns related to overexposure and antimicrobial resistance. Consequently, there is growing interest in biocompatible, natural alternatives such as amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) and essential oils (EOs).
Objective: This study evaluates the remineralization potential of thyme oil essential oil incorporating ACP nanoparticles in a novel formulated nanoemulsion on demineralized human enamel.
Methods: Sixty extracted human premolars and molars were demineralized and divided into three treatment groups (n=20) based on duration of exposure to the thyme nanoemulsion: 30 minutes, 8 hours, and 8 hours/day for 7 days. Remineralization efficacy was assessed through microhardness testing and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Nanoemulsions were formulated with ACP, vitamin D3, and thyme essential oil, and characterized using dynamic light scattering.
Results: SEM and microhardness analyses showed time-dependent remineralization. Short-term exposure resulted in partial mineral deposition, while extended treatment (7 days) yielded near-complete enamel surface restoration. Thyme oil’s antimicrobial properties likely contributed to a favorable remineralization environment by suppressing acidogenic bacteria. The nanoemulsion system enhanced the bioavailability and penetration of thyme oil and ACP nanoparticles.
Conclusion: The ACP-thyme oil nanoemulsion demonstrated significant remineralization capability, especially with prolonged application. This formulation offers a promising non-invasive approach for early enamel lesion repair by combining remineralizing and antimicrobial actions. Further clinical studies are recommended to validate its long-term efficacy and stability.

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