Acquired enamel pellicle (AEP) (AEP)

The acquired enamel pellicle (AEP) is a thin, acellular, and semi-permeable film that forms on the tooth surface within seconds of exposure to the oral environment (PubMed: 25653101). It is composed of a complex mixture of salivary proteins, glycoproteins, lipids, and enzymes—such as statherin, mucins, and proline-rich proteins—that selectively adsorb to the hydroxyapatite surface (PubMed: 21760166). The AEP serves as a critical interface between the tooth and the oral environment, providing lubrication, buffering against dietary acids, and regulating the mineral balance of the enamel (StatPearls: NBK541024). While it acts as a protective barrier against dental erosion, it also provides specific receptors for the primary colonization of oral bacteria, which can lead to the development of dental plaque and caries (PubMed: 25653101). Therapeutic strategies often target the AEP using agents like fluoride or chlorhexidine to modify its composition, enhance its protective properties, or inhibit the adhesion of pathogenic microorganisms (PubMed: 21760166). Furthermore, the pellicle plays a role in the remineralization process by concentrating calcium and phosphate ions near the enamel surface (PubMed: 21760166). Research into the AEP proteome has identified over 100 different proteins that contribute to its structural integrity and biological activity (PubMed: 25653101).

Other names

Salivary pellicleDental pellicleAcquired pellicleEnamel pellicle

Modification of the protein composition to enhance acid resistance, inhibition of bacterial binding sites, and delivery of remineralizing ions to the enamel surface.