Remineralization and fluoride uptake of white spot lesions under dental varnishes

Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate white spot lesion (WSL) remineralization and fluoride uptake by the application of fluoride varnishes directly onto artificial WSLs in vitro. Methods MI varnish containing casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP‐ACP) and 2.26% fluoride and Duraphat varnish containing 2.26% fluoride (no added calcium) were compared with a placebo varnish (no added calcium or fluoride). Two WSLs were prepared in enamel slabs and varnish applied to cover one of the two lesions. Each slab was immersed in artificial saliva for 14 days at 37°C. Mineral content was determined using transverse microradiography and fluoride uptake using electron probe microanalysis. The data were statistically analysed using a linear mixed model. Results Both MI and Duraphat varnishes significantly remineralized the covered and uncovered WSLs when compared with the placebo varnish (P