A groundbreaking fluoride-free gel developed by researchers at the University of Nottingham is poised to revolutionize dental care. This innovative gel, inspired by natural proteins, can regenerate tooth enamel, offering a promising solution for those suffering from dental decay and erosion. The gel's unique ability to mimic the tooth's natural mineral growth process provides a new avenue for long-term dental health management.
The research team, led by Dr. Abshar Hasan, has created a protein-based gel that acts as a scaffold, guiding the growth of new minerals from saliva to rebuild damaged enamel. This process, known as epitaxial mineralization, ensures the new minerals are structured and integrated into the existing tooth tissue, restoring both the structure and properties of healthy enamel. The gel's effectiveness has been demonstrated through rigorous testing, showing that the regenerated enamel behaves identically to healthy enamel under various real-life conditions.
The gel's application is straightforward, similar to standard fluoride treatments, but without the use of fluoride. It forms a strong, thin layer that penetrates the teeth, filling holes and cracks. By absorbing calcium and phosphate ions from saliva, the gel facilitates the controlled development of new minerals, promoting the growth of crystals in an organized manner. This process helps restore the natural, healthy architecture of enamel.
One of the gel's significant advantages is its versatility. It can be used to treat exposed dentine, forming an enamel-like layer that addresses hypersensitivity and improves the bonding of dental restorations. Enamel loss, a common issue affecting nearly 50% of the global population, often leads to tooth decay, infections, and tooth loss, which can have far-reaching health implications, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The current lack of practical solutions for enamel regeneration makes this new development particularly exciting.
Professor Alvaro Mata, Chair in Biomedical Engineering & Biomaterials, expressed enthusiasm for the gel's potential, stating, 'We are very excited because the technology has been designed with the clinician and patient in mind. It is safe, can be easily and rapidly applied, and it is scalable. The technology's versatility opens up opportunities for various products to help patients of all ages with dental issues related to enamel loss and exposed dentine.' The team has initiated the process with their start-up company, Mintech-Bio, aiming to launch a product next year, with the potential to significantly impact dental care worldwide.
