Relationship between electrical resistance measurements and microradiographic variables during remineralization of softened enamel lesions

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between electrical resistance (ECM) measurements and microradiographic variables during remineralization of softened enamel lesions. Sound bovine enamel blocks were demineralized and, subsequently, were remineralized for 3, 4, 5, 7 or 14 days. All the specimens were assessed by ECM and transversal microradiography. The mean ECM values in each group increased after remineralization. The ECM values after remineralization (ECM1), mineral loss (DeltaZ) and maximum mineral content in the surface layer (V(max)) were significantly correlated with the remineralization time. The ECM1 values were also significantly correlated with DeltaZ and V(max). It is suggested that ECM could be used as a device to monitor mineral accumulation as a result of preventive treatment in vitro. However, it may take a much longer time to follow up the remineralization changes compared with demineralization.