Re-mineralization capability of two natural nano-plant extracts on early enamel caries using diode laser

Abstract

Background: To investigate diode laser application and two natural nano-plant extracts effect on the re-mineralization and surface micro-hardness of early enamel carious lesions. Materials and Methods: Eighty enamel specimens were selected and prepared then divided into eight groups (10 specimens per group), according to diode laser irradiation, two nano-plant extracts (garlic and clove nano-plant extracts) and acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel, that were applied to demineralized enamel surfaces as follows; Group A; garlic nano-plant extract, Group B; clove nano-plant extract, Group C; application of APF gel, Group D; garlic nano-plant extract + diode laser, Group E; clove nano-plant extract + diode laser, Group F; application of APF gel + diode laser, Group G; diode laser, Group H; early enamel caries (control). Specimens were examined for their content of Ca, P, and F ions and their surface Vickers micro-hardness. The tests used for the statistical analysis were one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's (honestly significant difference) post hoc tests. Results: No statistically significant difference was detected between the tested groups for Ca and P content, while Group A recording the highest mean value. Group C recorded the highest F ion content values, while G and H groups recorded the least values. Group F recorded the highest significant micro-hardness values, while Group H recorded the least values. Conclusions: Garlic and clove nano-plant extracts may present a promising enamel re-mineralizing agents. Combination of both nano-extracts with diode laser application had a positive influence on enamel chemistry and micro-hardness.