The effect of propolis exposure on microhardness of human enamel in vitro

Propolis is a resinous wax-like material that is used by bees as a glue-like matrix in their hives. The in vitro effect of propolis solutions was investigated on the microhardness of human dental enamel. The calcium concentration of the solution was 7·8 ppm, the pH values varied between 5 and 6. The fluoride concentration was negligible. The Vickers hardness number of exposed enamel showed a steady increase with the percentage of propolis in the solution. The microhardness increase may be attributed to particular components of mineralization activity in propolis.