Scientists at the University of Nottingham have created a new protein-based gel that could revolutionize dental care by helping teeth repair themselves.
The innovation may allow damaged enamel—the protective outer layer of teeth—to regrow naturally for the first time, offering a safer, fluoride-free way to strengthen and restore teeth.
The findings were published in Nature Communications.
The new gel is inspired by how our bodies naturally form enamel during infancy. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, protecting teeth from chewing, temperature changes, and acidic foods.
But once it’s lost, it cannot regenerate. That’s why enamel erosion is one of the world’s most common dental problems, affecting nearly half the global population. It can lead to cavities, infections, and even tooth loss, and has also been linked to wider health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.
Unlike fluoride varnishes, which only slow down decay or strengthen existing enamel, this new material actually regrows enamel.
The gel can be applied in a dental clinic in much the same way fluoride treatments are today.
When brushed onto teeth, it creates a thin, durable coating that fills tiny holes and cracks. The coating then acts like a scaffold, attracting calcium and phosphate ions from saliva to rebuild the enamel’s natural crystalline structure—a process known as epitaxial mineralization.
In effect, the gel doesn’t just cover damage; it encourages the tooth to heal itself. The new enamel formed through this process has the same structure and strength as natural enamel, restoring both protection and shine. The researchers also found that the material can grow an enamel-like layer on exposed dentin—the sensitive tissue underneath enamel. This could help treat tooth sensitivity and improve how well fillings or crowns bond to teeth.
Dr. Abshar Hasan, the study’s lead author, explained, “Dental enamel has a unique structure that protects our teeth for life. When we applied our material to demineralized or eroded enamel, it guided the regrowth of crystals in an organized way, restoring the architecture of natural enamel.” Laboratory tests showed that this regenerated enamel could withstand everyday wear, including brushing, chewing, and exposure to acidic foods, just like healthy teeth.
Professor Alvaro Mata, who led the research, said the team designed the gel with both dentists and patients in mind. “It’s safe, quick to apply, and scalable for clinical use,” he said. “The technology is also versatile, which means it could be developed into a range of products for different dental problems.”
The research team has launched a start-up company called Mintech-Bio to bring the gel to market and expects the first commercial product could be available as soon as next year—offering hope for a future where damaged teeth can heal themselves.
If you care about tooth health, please read studies about an important causes of tooth decay and gum disease, and common tooth disease that may increase risks of dementia.
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Source: University of Nottingham.
