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Scientists at Leeds Dental Institute have created a liquid that mimics the way in which natural teeth are formed.It can be used to repair dental cavities without any tooth preparation or drilling.The same researchers have also developed a mouthwash that kills the bacteria that cause gum inflammation and tooth decay.
The treatments could be available within five years once all the various health and safety tests have been completed.The protein employed in the new process creates a scaffold which then mineralises in the same way that natural teeth are formed.The substance can be painted on early decalcified lesions that can lead to decay or on very sensitive and painful areas of exposed dentine or root surfaces. Professor Jennifer Kirkham who is the Director of the research institute is confident of the future success of the new discovery.
The mouthwash embraces what is called photo dynamic therapy that is currently used in some cancer therapies and was tested in disabled patients who are unable to use toothbrushes.The mouthwash embraces a molecule that is absorbed by bacteria in the mouth that is then activated by a bright light source resulting in the destruction of the bacteria.The method is also useful in treating potential gum disease when the liquid is placed below the gum line and activated with a tiny fibre optic light.
Comment from Doctor Dental
This sounds to be a really interesting breakthrough in the treatment of tooth decay and gum disease. We already know that there is a limited way in which calcium salts (from dairy products) can help to remineralise tooth surfaces but this treatment is much more radical with an ability to replace tooth enamel and dentine that has been destroyed by decay.This could be a very powerful weapon in the preventive dental armoury of the future. |
