Tiny balls in Toothpaste Could Hold The Key To Healthy Teeth
Tiny glass balls in toothpaste could hold the key to preventing tooth decay and tackling pain caused by sensitivity according to new research.
Toothpaste, which contains the tiny balls, which are made from calcium and phosphate, has been developed to try and stop the progression of decay. The toothpaste is designed for patients who have signs of decay, which are not advanced enough to require a filling. The ingredients are important components of enamel, the protective coating on the exterior of the teeth.
The glass balls are also designed to combat sensitivity, which is caused by wear to the enamel, which causes the dentin to become exposed.
The tiny balls, which resemble marbles, have been developed by researchers at Queen Mary University, London. Once the toothpaste has been placed on the teeth, the balls work to repair the enamel by filling in areas that have been worn or damaged; the moisture in the mouth then causes the balls to dissolve, which releases the calcium and phosphate.
There are already products on the market, which contain glass balls; however, this toothpaste dissolves eight times faster and form enamel quicker than other toothpastes.
Early trials show that the toothpaste forms a new tooth surface in less than three hours and the balls dissolve completely within eight hours.
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