Could New Dental Gel Repair Tooth Enamel?
In the U.S., it’s estimated that tooth enamel erosion affects nearly 46% of children and 80% of adults.
Tooth enamel erosion is the permanent loss or wearing away of the tooth’s hard, protective outer layer caused by acid from food, drinks, or stomach acid. It can cause sensitivity, yellowing and thinning of teeth. Some common causes include consuming soda, citrus, or starchy foods, dry mouth, grinding, or acid reflux.
Scientists from the University of Nottingham’s School of Pharmacy and Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, in collaboration with an international team of researchers, have developed a new breakthrough gel hyped to help repair and regenerate tooth enamel, strengthen healthy enamel, and prevent future decay.
Currently, fluoride remains the gold standard for prevention which uses calcium and phosphorous to strengthen enamel, making it more resistant to acid, carries and sensitivity.
This new protein-based gel is fluoride-free and works by mimicking key features of the natural proteins that guide the growth of dental enamel in infancy. It can be rapidly applied to teeth in the same way a dentist would apply a standard fluoride treatment. Lab studies demonstrate this enamel-like mineral growth happens within weeks and can fill holes and cracks in the teeth.
While the best protection is still good oral hygiene, fluoride use, diet control, and early detection of enamel damage, this new, safe, and versatile product could open the door to help patients of all ages suffering from a variety of dental problems.
This new research has led to a startup company, Minetech-Bio, which hopes to launch its first product in 2026.
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