Abstract

Aim: The effect of propolis on surface hardness and demineralization of superficial enamel was investigated, besides its durability against acid attack and tooth brushing. Materials and Methods: The Ethanolic Extraction of Propolis (EEP) was prepared. Human extracted molars, which were randomly divided into six sub groups, received either EEP70, EEP35, Caseine Phospho-Peptide Amorphous Calcium Phosphate (CPP-ACP), Flouride Varnish (FV), Amalgam Varnish (AV) or distilled water. Subsequently, the following three tests were performed on each sub-group: 1. Vicker's Hardness number (VHN) was recorded at the baseline, after treatment with the experimental solution and after acid incorporation. 2. Ca2+ release from the surface enamel after acid application. 3. FTIR spectroscopy by immersing the tooth into dicholoromethane subsequent to tooth brushing for 2 and 4 min.The One Way ANOVA, LSD Post Hoc, Repeated Measures ANOVA and Paired T-Test were incorporated for statistical analysis of data. Results and discussion: After the treatment, the highest VHN was related to EEP70 (P=0.000) while, after acid application, FV recorded the best VHN (P=0.000). Moreover, enamel demineralization was diminished in all subgroups, while the lowest Ca2+ release was recorded for EEP70, but it was not statistically significant (P=1.00). On the other hand, after 2 min brushing, FV and AV persisted on the enamel while, after 4 min, only FV was still present. Conclusions: EEP formed a protective layer on the tooth, resistant to acid attack, however its durability against brushing was doubtful.