Hydroxyapatite Sheet Could Prevent Tooth Decay
Hydroxyapatite Sheet Could Prevent Tooth Decay Hydroxyapatite Sheet Could Prevent Tooth Decay Japanese researchers have tossed their hat into the ring of futuristic caries prevention possibilities. Professor Shigeki Honstu and his team from Kinki University and Osaka Dental University
Hydroxyapatite Sheet Could Prevent Tooth Decay
Japanese researchers have tossed their hat into the ring of futuristic caries prevention possibilities. Professor Shigeki Honstu and his team from Kinki University and Osaka Dental University, in Osaka, have developed flexible, ultra-thin biocompatible films that emulate tooth enamel. The film can be applied to individual teeth to prevent dental caries and erosion, as well as improve esthetics. The so-called “tooth patch” is made from hydroxyapatite, the main mineral in tooth enamel, and is only 0.004 mm thick, which allows the sheet to remain flexible.
The thin layer of film is created by using a laser on compressed hydroxyapatite blocks that are placed in a vacuum, a process that releases individual particles from the blocks. The particles are crystallized in salt and then dried into a sheet. Each film has minute holes on the surface that allow liquid and air to escape when applied to a tooth, which prevents bubbles from forming. Once placed on the tooth, the film is invisible, although it can be colored for use in esthetic applications.
One hurdle the team faces is that the film takes nearly a full day before it completely adheres to the tooth surface, presenting a challenge to practical implementation. The film is currently being tested on extracted teeth, and the researchers indicate they will begin animal testing in the near future.
