Dental applications of amorphous calcium phosphates

Amorphous calcium phosphate compounds (ACPs) have the highest rates of formation and dissolution among all the calcium phosphates, and rapidly hydrolyze in situ to apatite, the tooth mineral. Dental applications based on these unique properties are being developed to prevent or repair incipient dental caries, to decrease dentin sensitivity, and to improve means of bonding to dentin. Dentifrices, carbonated solutions, and aerosols containing high concentrations of calcium and phosphate can be used as calcifying agents, mouthrinses, artificial saliva, and for other dental applications. When applied, they readily precipitate ACPs initially. Soluble ACPs have potential for use as an additive in chewing gum, a vehicle that releases beneficial ions of calcium, phosphate, fluoride, bicarbonate and hydroxide for remineralization. Bicarbonate, which regulates pH, stability, and precipitation by the release of CO2, can control the remineralization process.