Remineralizing Efficacy of Grape Seed Extract in Management of White Spot Lesion in Post Orthodontic Treated Patients.

Natural products have long been used in traditional medicine and are promising sources for novel therapeutic agents, especially in treating oral diseases such as dental caries.

Previously, herbs are used in dentistry for prevention and curative purpose of dental caries. The main advantages of using herbal alternatives are easy availability, cost effectiveness, increased shelf life, low toxicity, and lack of microbial resistance.

Grape seed extract (GSE) has been found to be a promising natural remineralizing agent for treatment of the demineralized tooth.

Grape seed extract (GSE), a readily available over the counter supplement, has been noted for its potential dental restorative and caries preventative properties as a potent antioxidant. There are multiple bioactive properties in GSE, but in particular, its rich content of proanthocyanidins (PACs) plays a role in its theoretical benefit in caries prevention.

PACs have hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties, which enhance their ability to irreversibly bind to a variety of compounds, particularly minerals, proteins, and carbohydrates.

The remineralization effect of GSE appears to be featured. First, it participates in mineral deposition on the superficial layer of the lesion through forming insoluble complexes and combines with calcium to enhance remineralization. Second, GSE may interact with the organic portion of enamel through PA-collagen interaction, thereby stabilizing the exposed collagen matrix.

Proanthocyanidin (PA) has been proved to strengthen collagen-based tissues by increasing collagen cross-links. It is claimed that it can increase collagen synthesis and accelerates the conversion of soluble collagen into insoluble collagen. Proanthocyanidin has proved safe in different clinical applications and has been used as dietary supplements as well.