Dentist's drill and the toothbrush could soon be redundant
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
The dentist's drill and the toothbrush could soon be redundant.
British scientists have created a solution that mimics the way the body forms new teeth.
It can be used to repair holes naturally without the need for drilling and filling.
The same researchers, at Leeds Dental Institute, have formulated a mouthwash that kills the bacteria that cause plaque when a light is shone into the mouth.
They believe the mouthwash could be available in three years or less. As an alternative to drilling, it might be ready for use within five years.
The solution is a new protein that allows the body to repair holes in the enamel on the surface of the tooth naturally.
It creates a scaffold, which attracts the minerals that form enamel in the same way as the body creates teeth. The substance can be painted on teeth to fill tiny holes before they become large holes full of decay.
The same treatment could be used to fill tiny holes in the teeth's dentine, which cause intense sensitivity to hot and cold food or drinks.
Because the protein involved is new, it must go through safety checks. These are already under way. It is hoped it can begin trials early next year with a view to gaining a licence within five years, said the institute's research director, Jennifer Kirkham. “We feel confident that this is a major step change for the future," she said. The mouthwash uses a molecule that is absorbed by bacteria in the mouth. When activated by a bright light, it destroys the bugs from within.
There is no risk to the patient if the mouthwash is swallowed.
The method, called photodynamic therapy, has been developed from cancer treatment, and was examined as a way to help disabled people look after their teeth if they could not use a normal toothbrush. But Professor Kirkham said the scope for its use was much wider. "It is a safe alternative way of improving oral hygiene," she said.
“At the moment we are not saying it is going to take over from brushing, because the trials have not been done yet.”
“We have to look at how much it is going to cost. At the moment it is very cheap."
She said the method could also be used to treat gum disease, which was a major
cause of tooth loss.
Source: Rebecca Smith, Age, 22/7/2008