DOI: 10.4103/tdj.tdj_153_25 ISSN: 1687-8574

Evaluation of remineralization effect of ginger on the demineralized primary teeth

Shimaa Elsayed Ali Elsherif, Nagwa A.E. Ghoname, Nura I. Abozena
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Introduction

White spot lesions represent a significant concern for primary teeth due to their implications for dental health and esthetics. Early diagnosis and appropriate management strategies are essential for preventing further demineralization and potential caries development.

Aim

The aim of this study was directed to evaluate remineralization effect of ginger on the demineralized primary teeth.

Patients and methods

Forty extracted first primary molar teeth were used in this study. All specimens were immersed in the demineralizing solution for 4 days to create an artificial enamel carious lesion. After demineralization, specimens were randomly divided into two equal groups: group 1: specimens were treated with ginger gel and group 2: specimens were treated with sodium fluoride gel. The evaluations of the remineralization effect of the materials were conducted using energy dispersive radiograph spectrometry and microhardness measurements. These evaluations were performed at four different periods: baseline (before demineralization), after demineralization, after 7 days, and after 14 days of remineralization.

Results

According to the energy dispersive radiograph results, the mean calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and Ca/P ratio significantly decreased indicating a loss of mineral content after demineralization. After 7 days of remineralization, Ca, P, and Ca/P ratio increased significantly in the study groups. Additionally, after 7 days of remineralization, the results showed that there was no statistically significant difference in Ca, P, and Ca/P ratio between ginger and fluoride groups. After 14 days of remineralization, the results showed that there was significant difference of Ca and P contents between ginger and fluoride groups. In both groups, the difference between the Ca/P ratio after 7 and 14 days of remineralization was not statistically significant. The mean value of microhardness dropped significantly after demineralization and increased after 7 days of remineralization in ginger and fluoride groups. There was no significant difference identified between the microhardness values after 7 and 14 days of remineralization in both groups.

Conclusion

Ginger gel has the potential for remineralization of early human enamel carious lesions. Ginger is considered a promising alternative to fluoride when dealing with white spot lesions.

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