Novamin is technically a desensitising agent by blocking tubules on exposed dentin (boney tissue below enamel). There is some evidence suggesting it may aid remineralisation in combination with fluoride, however it is far from conclusive.

A number of toothpaste brands in Japan claims to remineralise teeth with a hydroxyapatite based formula but the results are yet to be confirmed.

Dentists have been using zinc oxide gels and other material to seal exposed dentin but the results are mixed and eventually the filling will fail. Once cavities reach a certain size not much can be done about it.