"They Said It Couldn't Be Reversed Once Worn Down"... A Remarkable Tooth-Restoring Gel Is Here

University of Nottingham researchers develop protein-based gel
When applied to teeth, it uses calcium and phosphate to regenerate enamel

A protein-based gel that can restore damaged tooth enamel has been developed, drawing attention as a new alternative for dental treatment. When applied to the tooth surface, the gel uses calcium and phosphate found in saliva to form new enamel crystals.

Recently, international media reported that researchers at the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom had developed a gel that uses minerals in saliva to restore the structure and strength of damaged enamel. The findings were published in the international journal Nature Communications.

Enamel, which covers the outermost layer of the teeth, is the hardest tissue in the human body. It protects the inner parts of the teeth while chewing food and when exposed to acidic substances. However, because enamel contains no living cells, it cannot regenerate on its own like skin or bone once it is severely damaged or worn down.

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The gel developed by the researchers mimics the function of a protein involved in forming enamel structure during the early stages of tooth development. The fluoride-free, protein-based material forms a thin, hard layer when applied to the tooth surface. This layer fills microscopic cracks and gaps on the surface and serves as a scaffold for new mineral crystals to grow.

It then draws in calcium and phosphate ions naturally present in saliva, prompting the formation of new enamel crystals. This process, known as "epitaxial mineralization," allows new crystals to grow in alignment with existing enamel crystals. The key is not simply to add minerals to the tooth surface, but to create a structure connected to the existing tissue.

The researchers said the gel could be applied not only to tooth enamel but also to dentin, the layer beneath it. When gums recede or enamel wears down, dentin can become exposed and sensitive to cold, hot, or sweet foods. Applying the gel to the dentin surface could form a mineral layer similar to enamel and help reduce tooth sensitivity, they said.

The researchers also tested the strength and durability of the tissue formed after applying the gel. In experiments simulating everyday oral conditions, including toothbrushing, chewing, and exposure to acidic foods, the newly formed enamel showed mechanical properties similar to those of natural teeth. The researchers said these results confirmed the potential to restore the structure and physical properties of actual enamel, going beyond simply creating a protective coating.

Work to commercialize the technology is also underway. The research team, led by Professor Alvaro Mata of the University of Nottingham, established the biotech startup Mintech-Bio to commercialize the technology. The researchers aim to launch the first product in 2027, designed for easy use in dental clinics like conventional fluoride treatments.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.