New material could allow for enamel remineralization

Researchers have explored a new strategy to repair and regenerate tooth enamel, according to a news report from Oral Health.

In a study published in Nature Communications, the researchers developed a protein-based gel designed to imitate the proteins responsible for enamel formation in early life. The gel — containing an elastin-like recombinamer-based supramolecular matrix — was applied in a thin layer and worked by attracting calcium and phosphate ions from the saliva to fill gaps in the enamel.

After examining the efficacy of the novel gel on teeth with demineralized and eroded enamel, the researchers found that the material was capable of activating epitaxial mineralization, thereby restoring and strengthening the mechanical properties of the enamel as well as preventing tooth decay.

The researchers noted that the new mineralizing technology “offers a practical and clinically friendly solution to remineralize thin … layers of lost enamel in a manner that regains both structure and function of healthy enamel tissue … far surpass[ing] current commercial dental remineralization alternatives and overcome[ing] key translational obstacles that have so far prevented the capacity to regrow enamel tissue in patients.” Nonetheless, they concluded that because their research was ex-vivo, in vivo validation is necessary to confirm the efficacy of the new mineralizing technology.

Read more: Oral Health

The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.