In vitro remineralization effects of grape seed extract on artificial root caries

J Dent. 2008 Nov;36(11):900-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jdent.2008.07.011. Epub 2008 Sep 25.

Abstract

Grape seed extract (GSE) contains proanthocyanidins (PA), which has been reported to strengthen collagen-based tissues by increasing collagen cross-links. We used an in vitro pH-cycling model to evaluate the effect of GSE on the remineralization of artificial root caries. Sound human teeth fragments obtained from the cervical portion of the root were stored in a demineralization solution for 96 h at 37 degrees C to induce artificial root caries lesions. The fragments were then divided into three treatment groups including: 6.5% GSE, 1,000 ppm fluoride (NaF), and a control (no treatment). The demineralized samples were pH-cycled through treatment solutions, acidic buffer and neutral buffer for 8 days at 6 cycles per day. The samples were subsequently evaluated using a microhardness tester, polarized light microscopy (PLM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Fisher's tests (p<0.05). GSE and fluoride significantly increased the microhardness of the lesions (p<0.05) when compared to a control group. PLM data revealed a significantly thicker mineral precipitation band on the surface layer of the GSE-treated lesions when compared to the other groups (p>0.05), which was confirmed by CLSM. We concluded that grape seed extract positively affects the demineralization and/or remineralization processes of artificial root caries lesions, most likely through a different mechanism than that of fluoride. Grape seed extract may be a promising natural agent for non-invasive root caries therapy.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Analysis of Variance
  • Cross-Linking Reagents / therapeutic use*
  • Dental Enamel / drug effects*
  • Dental Enamel / pathology
  • Fluorides, Topical / therapeutic use
  • Grape Seed Extract
  • Hardness
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use*
  • Proanthocyanidins / therapeutic use*
  • Root Caries / drug therapy*
  • Root Caries / pathology
  • Seeds
  • Tooth Remineralization / methods*
  • Vitis

Substances

  • Cross-Linking Reagents
  • Fluorides, Topical
  • Grape Seed Extract
  • Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins
  • Plant Extracts
  • Proanthocyanidins