Scientists are taking notes from mother nature. Using the a similar adhesive that mussels use to stick to rocks, scientists are advancing towards preventing tooth sensitivity that affects millions around the world.
Did you know that 3 out of 4 people have teeth that are sensitive to hot, cold, sweet or sour foods and drinks? Once the hard outer enamel layer and the soft underlying dentin wear away, tooth sensitivity can occur.
Scientists cite the need for substances that rebuild both enamel and dentin at the same time, although there are some special toothpastes and sugar-free gum that can help reduce tooth sensitivity.
They reasoned a sticky material — similar to the adhesive that mussels use to adhere to surfaces — could help teeth keep minerals in contact with dentin long enough for the rebuilding process to occur.
They concluded that the substance could be a “simple universal technique to induce enamel and dentin remineralisation simultaneously”.
Laboratory tests were described as involving teeth with worn-away enamel and dentin being bathed in liquid containing the sticky material and minerals. Teeth which were bathed in the sticky substance and in minerals reformed both dentin and enamel, but those bathed only in minerals reformed enamel only.
Have questions about tooth sensitivity? Contact Wesbrook Village Dental Centre today!