Video: Will A Cavity-Filling Fluid Replace the Dental Drill?
Perhaps someday, the bi-annual trip to the dentist may become much less intimidating, thanks to researchers at Leeds University in the UK who have developed a completely pain-free way to fill cavities.
Taking inspiration from the principles of regenerative medicine, the process involves a special peptide-based fluid. Suspended in water, the peptide fluid, known as P 11-4 is clear and has a similar viscosity as water. Under certain conditions, namely when placed in contact with saliva that surrounds a tooth, the fluid forms a gel scaffold that fills the microscopic holes that are cavities. The scaffold, which mimics proteins that are found in growing teeth, attracts hydroxyapatite and other minerals to regenerate actual tooth enamel within weeks.
Dentistry has been awaiting a “Magic Mouthwash” to treat caries and periodontal disease for decades.
Has the future arrived?
One Comment
Kathy Frederickson
A replacement for the dental drill in the near future is quite possible. Remember, the drill was not included in mankind’s early attempts at dentistry. As technology continues to improve, upgrades would be done to make the drill a better tool – or it can be made obsolete in the future if there’s a better way to repair teeth.