Ancient Remedies in Modern Dentistry: The Remineralizing Potential of Urine and Sumac

Authors: Amir Shayegan, Nicolas Jabbour

DOI: 10.18231/j.ijohd.12245.1869952967

Keywords: Remineralization, Enamel, Fluoride, Urine, Rhus coriaria L.

Abstract: Background: Enamel remineralization restores mineral content and prevents decay. While fluoride is commonly used, concerns about its risks have led to interest in natural alternatives like urine therapy and sumac, both of which have been historically used for oral health. The aim of this study was to assess the remineralizing effects of human urine and sumac on enamel, testing the null hypothesis that neither would show significant effects. Materials and Methods: Ninety enamel-dentin blocks were prepared from extracted human teeth and divided into nine groups (10 samples each). The blocks were treated daily with distilled water, fluoride varnish, fluoride toothpaste, human saliva, urine, dark chocolate, honey, honey-ginger mixture, and sumac. After demineralization for 7 days, the samples underwent remineralization for one month with daily treatments. Fluorescence loss (ΔF) was measured at five-time points using QLF. Surface changes were observed using SEM. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and nonparametric tests, with significance at p < 0.05. Results: The Fluoride varnish, Fluoride toothpaste, Human saliva, and Human urine groups showed significant remineralization. The Human saliva group had the most significant remineralization by T3, which was sustained at T4. The Human urine group also showed partial remineralization, with significant recovery by T4. The Honey, Honey & ginger, Sumac, and dH2O groups exhibited minimal or no remineralization after one month. Conclusion: Fluoride treatments and human saliva demonstrated the most significant remineralization, supporting the well-established role of fluoride in enamel repair. Human urine also showed promising remineralization, likely due to its mineral content. In contrast, substances like honey, honey-ginger mix, and sumac showed minimal or no remineralization, suggesting that not all natural substances are effective in enamel restoration. These findings highlight the importance of proven remineralizing agents and suggest further exploration of natural alternatives.