Researchers Discover Method to Transform Hair into Toothpaste for Tooth Restoration
In a groundbreaking development, scientists at King's College London have discovered a way to rebuild tooth enamel using keratin, a protein found in hair, skin, and wool. This discovery could potentially revolutionize dental care by providing more natural and sustainable solutions.
The keratin gel, developed by the King's College London team, could be applied in a dental clinic like a protective nail varnish or incorporated into an everyday toothpaste. If successful, a dental check-up might start with a trim and end with a stronger smile.
Keratin appears to create a "highly organized, crystal-like scaffold that mimics the structure and function of natural enamel." When exposed to calcium and phosphate, keratin acts as scaffolding for new crystals of hydroxyapatite, the mineral that makes up tooth enamel. Over time, these crystals align into dense, enamel-like layers.
This scaffold seeps into microscopic pores, sealing off nerve channels that cause sensitivity and toothaches. Moreover, the keratin-based products are harder and more durable than conventional resin treatments, and they closely match the natural tooth color, enhancing aesthetics.
The supply of keratin would be sustainable due to the abundance of hair and wool as waste materials. The process of using keratin avoids harsh chemicals, relying on water-based preparation and the body's own mineral resources.
Researchers at Tufts University, USA, have also made strides in the field of dental care. They have grown human-like teeth in pigs, which could one day replace medical implants. The communication between tooth stem cells, made possible by these materials, could be a significant step towards regenerative dentistry.
The findings of the keratin research were published in the journal "Advanced Healthcare Materials". The team hopes to bring keratin-based products to the public within two to three years, pending further trials.
With these advancements, the future of dental care looks promising, offering sustainable, effective, and aesthetically pleasing solutions for tooth repair and maintenance.
[References] [1] Advanced Healthcare Materials, [Title of the publication], [Year of publication] [2] King's College London, [Title of the press release], [Year of publication] [3] Imperial College London, [Title of the press release], [Year of publication] [4] Tufts University, [Title of the press release], [Year of publication] [5] [Name of the journal], [Title of the article], [Year of publication]
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