Evaluation the effect of the theobromine on initial enamel caries in vitro

Fluoride has been used as a remineralization agent for many years. In the recent years, due to possible side effects of fluoride, research related with a new remineralization agent has been made. Theobromine derived from cocoa bean is one of the current remineralization agents. The aim of this in vitro study was to assess the remineralization efficacy of different concentrations of theobromine and fluoride in the treatment of initial caries lesions. For this purpose, 5 experimental groups consisting of 10 bovine enamel samples prepared (200 mg/l Theobromine group (Group T1), 500 mg/l Theobromine group (Group T2), 500 ppm Fluoride group (Group F1), 1450 ppm Fluoride group (Group F2), and control group (Group K). All samples were incubated with demineralization solution for 32 hours to create artificial caries lesions. Surface hardness values calculated with (KHN) Knoop microhardness device and quantities of Calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) and, Ca / P ratios were analyzed with using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). Remineralization agents were applied to the groups in an experimental pH cycle for 8 days. Microhardness and mineral deposition measurements of the samples were repeated after treatment. According to the results of our study, the values of KHN, Ca and P deposition after treatment in all groups except group K showed a statistically significant increase compared with post demineralization values. There was a statistically significant increase in F2 and T2 groups in terms of KHN and Ca values, after treatment compared to all other groups. Based on the results of our study, it can be said that 500 mg/l Theobromine increased the surface hardness and Ca and P deposition at the close level of 1450 ppm Fluoride. Keywords: Fluoride, Microhardness, Remineralization agents, SEM-EDX, Theobromine.