Remineralisation
Pronunciation: ree-min-er-al-eye-ZAY-shun
The process by which mineral ions, primarily calcium and phosphate, are redeposited into demineralised enamel or dentin, reversing early carious lesions.
Full Definition
Remineralisation is a key concept in preventive dentistry and caries research, describing the natural or therapeutically enhanced restoration of mineral content to tooth structure that has been partially dissolved by acid attack. It is facilitated by saliva, fluoride, and newer agents such as casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP). In editorial contexts, 'remineralisation' should be distinguished from 'mineralisation', which describes initial mineral deposition during tooth development. The British spelling 'remineralisation' and American spelling 'remineralization' must each be applied consistently according to the journal's style. Authors should define the method used to detect and quantify remineralisation (e.g., quantitative light-induced fluorescence, transverse microradiography).
Usage
Usage note: British English: 'remineralisation'; American English: 'remineralization'. Do not use 'mineralisation' and 'remineralisation' interchangeably; mineralisation describes developmental deposition, remineralisation describes repair of demineralised tissue.
In Context
- "Remineralisation of initial carious lesions was assessed using quantitative light-induced fluorescence at baseline, four weeks, and eight weeks." — In situ caries study methods
- "The author consistently misspelled 'remineralisation' as 'remineralisation'—editors should check for the silent distinction between British and American spelling conventions." — Language editing note