Demineralized enamel lesion

A demineralized enamel lesion, often observed clinically as a white spot, is an early, non-cavitated carious lesion in tooth enamel characterized by subsurface mineral loss while the surface maintains relative integrity. These lesions represent the initial visible phase of the caries process, caused by acid attack from dental plaque biofilm fermenting sugars, which lowers pH and results in calcium and phosphate dissolution from hydroxyapatite crystals. Remineralization, primarily via fluoride and saliva, can arrest or reverse these lesions if managed early; without intervention, further mineral loss can cause cavitation and overt decay. Key detail: Demineralized enamel lesion is a morphologic/disease stage, not a discrete molecule or receptor and thus is inappropriate as a drug target in the pharmacological sense.

Other names

White spot lesionNon-cavitated carious lesionEarly enamel carious lesionIncipient carious lesion

Promotion of enamel remineralization (via fluoride, calcium, and phosphate delivery); Inhibition of demineralization