Remineralisation is a method for treating superficial caries at the chalky white spot stage, without damaging the enamel structure. The procedure is non-invasive and painless – there is no need to prepare the tooth or place a filling.
When is remineralisation used?
It is used to treat early caries on children’s teeth and to strengthen exposed enamel surfaces in the early stage of tooth wear or small fractures of the enamel edges.
What is it?
Remineralisation is a method for treating superficial caries at the chalky white spot stage without damaging the enamel structure. This kind of caries is very rare in adults, because the surface layer of their enamel is fully mineralised. In children, however, it is common because mineralisation is not yet complete.
The arrows in the photos point to early white carious spots suitable for remineralisation.
What are the advantages?
The chalky white spot is a very favourable moment for treating early caries:
- the procedure is non-invasive – it causes the child no pain at all;
- the anatomical and functional integrity of the enamel is fully restored;
- there is no need to prepare the tooth or place a filling.
How is it done and with what?
Remineralisation is carried out with varnishes or gels containing fluoride and minerals, which are applied or rubbed onto the surface affected by caries, fracture or wear. They have a pleasant taste and smell for the child.
Some remineralising products are applied once at the dental clinic and last for several months, after which they have to be applied again – fluoride varnishes are of this kind.
Other remineralising products come in the form of a special paste (Tooth Mousse), which is rubbed into the teeth for a certain period of time. It contains casein phosphopeptide – amorphous calcium phosphate and restores the mineral balance in the surface layer of the enamel.
Frequently asked questions
When is remineralisation used?
To treat early caries on children’s teeth and to strengthen exposed enamel surfaces in the early stage of tooth wear or small fractures of the enamel edges.
Is remineralisation painful?
No. The procedure is non-invasive and causes the child no pain at all.
Are tooth preparation and a filling needed?
No. The anatomical and functional integrity of the enamel is fully restored, and there is no need to prepare the tooth or place a filling.
How long do remineralising products last?
Some products, such as fluoride varnishes, are applied once at the dental clinic and last for several months, after which they have to be applied again.