Science Friday: Say Goodbye to the Dentist’s Drill?

Science Friday: Say Goodbye to the Dentist's Drill?As reported by Science Daily News, researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a revolutionary way of tackling dental decay that reverses the damage of acid attack and re-builds teeth as new.

According to the Science Daily website, Leeds’ discovery is based on using a peptide-based fluid that is literally painted onto the tooth’s surface to stimulate a regeneration of the tooth defect.

The peptide in the fluid is known as P 11-4, which under the right circumstances will form fibers.

When the fluid is applied, it permeates the micro-pores caused by the acid attack on the tooth, and then it immediately forms a gel. This gel attracts calcium and regenerates the tooth’s mineral from within, providing a natural and pain-free repair, as stated in Science Daily News report.

“The results of our tests so far are extremely promising,” said Professor Paul Brunton, who is overseeing the patient testing at the University of Leeds Dental Institute. “If these results can be repeated on a larger patient group, then I have no doubt whatsoever that in two to three years time this technique will be available for dentists to use in their daily practice.”

“The main reason that people don’t go to the dentist regularly is fear. If we can offer a treatment that is completely non-invasive, that doesn’t involve a mechanical drill, then we can change that perceived link between dental treatment and pain. This really is more than filling without drilling, this is a novel approach that enables the patients to keep their natural teeth!”

Do you think this new discovery will eliminate the need to drill teeth?

For more on this story see Science Daily News: Filling Without Drilling: Pain-Free Way of Tackling Dental Decay Reverses Acid Damage and Re-Builds Teeth.

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