RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Dental caries occurs with the release of organic acids from the fermentable carbohydrates metabolized by cariogenic microorganisms. Microbial, genetic, immunological, behavioral, and environmental factors play a role in the development and severity of dental caries. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible effects of different mouthwash solutions on dental remineralization. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This in vitro study compared the remineralization capacity of different mouthwash solutions applied topically to the enamel surface. A total of 50 tooth specimens were prepared from the buccal and lingual halves, with 10 teeth in each group: G1 (control); G2 (Listerine®); G3 (Sensodyne®); G4 (Oral B® Pro-Expert); and G5 (DentaSave® Zinc). Remineralization capacity was evaluated in all groups. The one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the paired samples t test were used for statistical analysis, with a p-value <0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: There were significant differences in the calcium (Ca)/phosphorus (P) atomic percentage (at%) ratio between the demineralized and remineralized dentin (p = 0.001), and between the demineralized and remineralized enamel (p = 0.006). Similarly, there were significant differences in the at% of P (p = 0.017) and zinc (Zn) (p = 0.010) between the demineralized and remineralized dentin. There was a significant difference in the at% of P (p = 0.030) between the demineralized and remineralized enamel. The Zn at% in enamel was significantly higher after remineralization in G5 as compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The images of the demineralized enamel showed the usual keyhole prism appearance, with intact prism sheaths and negligible inter-prism porosity. CONCLUSIONS: The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) findings seem to confirm the effectiveness of DentaSave Zinc for the remineralization of enamel lesions.