**Revolutionary Gel Repairs Irreparable Tooth Damage**
Revolutionary- Gel- Repairs -
**Nottingham,
UK** – Scientists at the University of Nottingham have developed a pioneering protein
gel that can repair damaged tooth enamel by stimulating the growth of new
mineral crystals, mimicking the natural enamel formation process.
 |
| **Revolutionary Gel Repairs Irreparable Tooth Damage** |
This breakthrough could revolutionize global
dental care for tooth decay. The product is slated for market release next year,
following successful trials demonstrating its effectiveness in restoring tooth
hardness and resistance under real-world conditions.
A groundbreaking treatment
is expected to hit markets next year, offering a
lifeline to individuals suffering from **tooth decay**.
- Researchers
at the
- international team, have developed a novel gel capable of restoring and
- regenerating compromised tooth enamel.
The
scientists highlighted that currently, no effective solution exists to regrow
enamel, a significant issue linked to **oral diseases** affecting nearly half
the world's population, with an estimated annual cost of $544 billion.
According to Professor Alvaro Mata
Head of Biomedical Engineering and Biomaterials, the
new protein gel is "safe, easy and fast to apply, and can be produced on a
large scale."
The
gel can be applied to teeth in the same manner dentists currently use **fluoride
treatments** to prevent problem escalation, requiring only a few minutes and no
surgical intervention.
- "This new technology is versatile, allowing for its development into various
- products that can assist patients of all ages suffering from dental issues
- related to enamel erosion or exposed dentin," Professor Mata stated.
He
added, "We initiated this journey through our startup, Mintech-Bio, and
hope to launch the first product next year. This innovation could soon help
patients worldwide."
The
gel functions by mimicking the properties of natural proteins that guide enamel
growth during childhood.
When applied,
the gel forms a durable layer that fills gaps and fissures in the
teeth. Subsequently, it captures calcium and phosphate ions from saliva, stimulating
guided growth of new mineral crystals. This process ultimately repairs the
enamel structure and restores its natural properties.
Dr. Abshar
Hasan, a postdoctoral fellow and lead author of the study, explained that when
applied to demineralized or eroded enamel, or exposed dentin, the gel "promotes
crystal growth in an integrated and organized manner, helping to restore the
natural structure of healthy enamel."
- He continued, "We tested the mechanical properties of these regenerated
- tissues under conditions simulating actual use, such as **toothbrushing**,
- chewing, and exposure to acidic foods, and found that the regenerated
- enamel behaves exactly like healthy enamel."
Scientists
from the
These
findings were published today in the journal "Nature Communications."