Posted

can potentially re-mineralize teeth and change the future of restorative dentistry.

Residual Bacteria in Cavities

No matter how well your dentist cleans out a cavity, it’s possible that some bacteria might remain. Removing every bit of affected tissue is not always possible. Having the ability to fill a cavity with a material that can neutralize remaining germs could be revolutionary for the dentistry field. Dr. Huakun Xu, director of the Division of Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering in the University of Maryland’s Department of Endodontics, Prosthodontics, and Operative Dentistry, says their research goes even a step further. Lactic acid produced by Streptococcus mutans (the bacteria that cause tooth decay) can deplete minerals in teeth. The new filling material being designed will pack a one-two punch by killing bacteria and restoring minerals to teeth at the same time.

Research Continues

The scientists have procured biofilms (such as plaque) from volunteers to be used in laboratory tests. Antibacterial agents in both primers and adhesives are being developed and tested on the specimens since they are the first materials that touch the tooth when a filling is given. According to Dr. Xu, when dental restorations fail, it’s usually due to secondary decay from leftover bacteria. The new nanocomposite technology could potentially alleviate any such issues, leaving teeth cleaner and stronger than they were before the decay even started.

Dental Fillings from Corona Dentists

If you would like to schedule a dental checkup with your Corona dentists, contact our 92879 dentist office today by calling (951) 273-9580. We offer preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry to ensure optimum oral health, and we welcome patients from Corona and surrounding communities.