title: Assessment of the effect of selected snack foods on the remineralization/demineralization of enamel and dentin.
abstract: This study utilized volunteer subjects to examine caries-like lesions for remineralization and demineralization patterns in dentin and enamel when nine different snack foods were eaten between meals. Caries progression was observed in enamel and dentin when apple juice, a cola beverage, and sweetened (strawberry) yogurt were consumed as snacks. Remineralization of enamel was observed when cheddar cheese, skim milk, 2% milk, whole milk, chocolate milk, and orange juice were used as between meal snacks. Dairy products, with the exception of the sweetened yogurt, generally reduced the amount of demineralization produced in dentin. This study helps establish a scientific basis for appropriate between-meal snacks for patients who are concerned about their dietary habits as a part of their overall preventive oral health plan.
authors.affiliation: Minnesota Dental Research Associates, USA. markjensen@mn.mediaone.net
authors.forename: M E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Jensen
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Donly
authors.forename: J S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Wefel
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001628:Beverages; D002326:Cariogenic Agents; D002327:Cariostatic Agents; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D003611:Dairy Products; D003743:Dental Enamel; D003804:Dentin; D004037:Diet, Cariogenic; D005260:Female; D005502:Food / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D017001:Tooth Demineralization / Q000178:diet therapy* / Q000209:etiology*; D014089:Tooth Remineralization
chemical_list: D002326:Cariogenic Agents; D002327:Cariostatic Agents