Remineralisation

Remineralisation, or remineralization, is the biological or physical process by which minerals are redeposited in mineralized tissues or materials after loss. In living organisms, it most commonly refers to tooth enamel and bone, where calcium and phosphate ions re-enter the mineral phase to restore strength and density. The rate and success of remineralisation depend on mineral availability, local pH, presence of organic matrices, and the activity of cells or fluids that supply minerals.

In dentistry, remineralisation can repair early carious lesions that have not yet cavitated. Acid exposure dissolves enamel minerals, creating subsurface porosities that can be refilled by redeposited calcium and phosphate if minerals are available and the pH is favorable. Fluoride promotes remineralisation by forming fluorapatite, which is more acid resistant. Saliva provides minerals and buffers acidity, and products containing CPP-ACP can stabilize calcium phosphate at the tooth surface. Effective remineralisation relies on good oral hygiene, limited sugar intake, and adequate fluoride exposure; advanced lesions with cavitation require restoration.

In bone, remineralisation is part of normal remodeling, with osteoblasts depositing mineralised matrix and osteoclasts resorbing old tissue. After fracture, new mineral is deposited to restore strength, influenced by calcium and phosphate availability, vitamin D status, hormones, and aging. Remineralisation is also studied in water treatment and materials science, where minerals may be reintroduced to demineralised materials to restore properties such as taste or density.