Vabitha Shetty

The dawn of preservative and minimal intervention dentistry demonstrates that newer approaches for enamel remineralization are the need of the hour, independent of fluoride remineralizing systems. Non - fluoridated remineralization systems are not dependent on variables like saliva quality and patient compliance. However, most currently available non - fluoride remineralizing systems are based on improving efficacy of fluoride and reducing the possible fluoride concerns. There is a need for a biomimetic approach for regeneration of enamel in the long term which focuses on sturdy attachment of enamel apatite crystals to the tooth surface, akin to the creation of artificial enamel.

In recent years remineralisation of lesions and caries arrest treatment has gained acceptance in the practice of minimally invasive dentistry. It is also promoted as a part of basic oral health care. It has been reported that arresting dentinal caries in primary teeth is possible without restorative intervention. Silver diamine fluoride(SDF) is an inexpensive topical fluoride used in many countries to treat dentinal caries across the age spectrum. It is very effective in arresting active caries in primary teeth without restorative intervention and is useful in maintaining form without making the child apprehensive.