The Use of MI Varnish for the Prevention and Reduction of White Spot Lesions in Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontists face two common iatrogenic treatment side effects, root resorption and enamel decalcification, with the latter occurring at a much higher frequency. While the processes that lead to enamel demineralization are understood, methods to diminish or perhaps eliminate degradation of enamel surfaces are being searched for. A new product, MI Varnish, is current available and has been shown in some initial case reports to be useful in reducing white spot lesions. It contains a special milk-derived protein RECALDENT TM (CPP-ACP) in which the casein phosphopeptides (CPP) bind to teeth, dentin, and oral mucosa while the amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) releases calcium and phosphate. The current study aimed to determine if MI Varnish has an effect in preventing the formation of white spot lesions for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. 33 subjects were prospectively recruited for the project as the MI Varnish group, with a control group of 29 orthodontically treated subjects who received routine treatment and oral hygiene regimes. The study group received the MI Varnish on the day of bracket bonding. Subjects were recalled initially for 4 weeks (twice) and then at 3 monthly intervals. Difference in prevention of white spot formation between the control and the study groups were evaluated through photographic records and clinical examination by using the Enamel Decalcification Index (EDI) scores.