Non-Fluoride Topical Remineralizing Agents– A Futuristic Approach: An Overview

Background: Fluoride has been the most effective weapon in the prevention of dental caries, but not without limitations. This has led to an increasing interest in non-fluoride topical remineralizing agents.

Methods: A literature search using PubMed and Google Scholar was undertaken. Articles pertaining to remineralizing agents like amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), alone or combined with casein phospho-peptide (CPP), sodium trimetaphosphate, beta tricalcium phosphate, bioactive glass containing calcium and sodium phosphosilicate, calcium silicates, CPP-ACPF nano complexes, dicalcium phosphate dehydrate, unstabilized calcium and phosphate salts with sodium fluoride were assessed. Further, articles related to the remineralizing effects of xylitol and sorbitol, and self assembling peptides were researched.

Results: There is strong evidence supporting the use of xylitol and CPP-ACPF nano complexes for remineralization and thereby prevention of dental caries as compared to the other non fluoride agents. Self assembling peptides, Novamin, Enamelon etc. have promising, but preliminary evidence; long term clinical trials are needed. Guided Enamel Regeneration though a promising technology, is still in the exploratory stages.

Conclusion: A variety of Non-Fluoride Topical Remineralizing Agents have demonstrated promising results. All these techniques, along with fluoride could prove valuable in our combat against dental caries. The way forward would be to blend science and technology with applicability and economics to achieve prevention.