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The benefits of Bioactive Glass formulations (BGs) in dentistry are mainly attributed to their ability to react with saliva and other aqueous environments. These surface reactions enable the controlled release of biologically active ions that contribute to the repair and protection of dental tissues.
The process begins with the exchange of alkali ions, such as sodium (Na+), from the glass structure with hydrogen ions (H+) present in the surrounding fluid. This exchange elevates the local pH and initiates partial dissolution of the silicate network.
As the glass continues to dissolve, ions including calcium (Ca2+), phosphate (PO4 3−), and silicate (SiO4 4−) are released into the surrounding environment.
The released calcium and phosphate ions rapidly create a supersaturated environment for apatite minerals. This promotes the formation of an amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) layer on the tooth surface, which subsequently crystallizes into hydroxyapatite (HA) that is more resistant to acid dissolution.
Bioactive Glasses support enamel remineralization through the controlled release of therapeutic ions that help restore mineral content and improve resistance to acid attack. By releasing calcium, phosphate, fluoride, and other bioactive ions, BGs promote apatite formation within demineralized enamel regions and help rebuild a more stable enamel-like surface structure.
In dentin, the newly formed mineral layer can infiltrate and occlude exposed dentinal tubules. This may provide long-lasting relief from dentinal hypersensitivity while also improving the mechanical resistance of the tissue against future acid challenges.
In addition to remineralization, BGs also exhibit a pH-buffering effect. The release of alkaline ions increases the local pH and helps neutralize the acidic environment produced by cariogenic bacteria. This action may reduce further demineralization and may contribute to a less favorable environment for cariogenic bacteria.
Through the combined effects of mineral replenishment, dentinal tubule occlusion, pH modulation, and antimicrobial activity, Bioactive Glasses provide a multifunctional approach for the protection and restoration of both enamel and dentin.
In vitro studies have demonstrated that toothpastes play an important role in the remineralization of early enamel carious lesions. Biocompatible and functional agents such as bioactive glass, hydroxyapatite, and wheat protein–CaGP can contribute to the remineralization process when incorporated into both experimental and commercially available toothpaste formulations.
In vitro studies have also shown that Bioactive Glass-containing toothpastes may improve the surface microhardness (SMH) of demineralized enamel in cases of enamel erosion involving primary teeth.
Much of the current evidence regarding Bioactive Glass toothpastes is based on in vitro and laboratory research, although clinical evidence continues to grow.
Farjaminejad R, Farjaminejad S, Garcia-Godoy F, Jalali M. The Role of Bioactive Glasses in Caries Prevention and Enamel Remineralization. Applied Sciences. 2025;15(24):13157. https://doi.org/10.3390/app152413157
Çetin PR, Alkan E, Tağtekin D, Çetin Aİ, Oktay NŞ. Enamel remineralization potential of bioactive glass-containing toothpastes: an in vitro study. Odontology. 2026 Feb 9. doi:10.1007/s10266–026–01337-z. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 41663789.
Mareddy AR, Reddy VN, Done V, Rehaman T, Gadekar T, Raj M. Comparative Evaluation of Three Remineralization Agents — Bioactive Glass, Nanohydroxyapatite and Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate Fluoride-Based Slurry on Enamel Erosion of Primary Teeth: An In Vitro Study. International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry. 2025 Apr;18(4):425–430. doi:10.5005/jp-journals-10005–3032. Epub 2025 May 19. PMID: 40469815; PMCID: PMC12131052.
