US scientists develop new painless treatment for dental cavities
Scientists in the US have developed a new treatment, which could put an end to painful trips to the dentist.
Researchers from the University of Washington have come up with a new formula, which is inspired by the way proteins in the body function, to repair damaged enamel. Using peptides derived from amelogenin, which is instrumental in the development of hard enamel, the team has developed a substance, which is capable of remineralising enamel tissue.
During the trial process, researchers tested the peptide material on dental lesions, which were created in the laboratory. The results of testing show that new enamel was created after every application. The team discovered that each layer of the solution prompted the formulation of between 10 and 50 micrometres of new enamel. The findings of the study have been published in the ACS Biomaterials Science and Engineering journal.
The creation of a new peptide substance derived from amelogenin is designed to combat the loss of ameloblasts, the cells that produce enamel. When a tooth is fully developed, the cells that formulate enamel start to die and the enamel is also susceptible to damage and erosion caused by sugar and acids. Researchers hope that the new substance will help to protect the enamel, prevent enamel damage and provide assistance with regenerating enamel when dental cavities form and the surface of the tooth is penetrated by harmful bacteria. It is hoped that one day, the formula could be added to toothpastes and oral health products to minimise the risk of dental disease.
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