Demineralized dental enamel lesion

Demineralized dental enamel lesion describes areas of tooth enamel that have lost essential minerals, mostly calcium and phosphate, resulting in subsurface porosity and heightened susceptibility to dental caries[1][6][10]. The process is initiated by acids—mainly lactic acid—produced by bacterial fermentation of dietary carbohydrates within dental plaque, or by exposure to dietary or endogenous acids (e.g., gastric reflux)[1][5][6]. The earliest clinical sign is a "white spot lesion," which marks regions of subsurface mineral loss, often reversible if promptly remineralized with fluoride or calcium-phosphate therapies[9]. If unchecked, demineralization progresses to cavitated lesions, compromising tooth structure and often leading to caries, pain, and, potentially, infection[1][10]. Interventions focus on modulating the dynamic between demineralization and remineralization of enamel using topical agents and dietary changes[5][10][6].

Other names

White spot lesionEnamel demineralizationNon-cavitated carious lesionIncipient carious lesion

Promotes remineralization by replenishing calcium, phosphate, or fluoride ions; Inhibits bacterial acid production; Forms acid-resistant mineral phases in enamel (fluorapatite)