In order to understand the pure dental-related brilliance that has sprung from a research team at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, one must first grasp the process that occurs before a cavity forms in a tooth.

Bacteria is ever present in the mouth, but when food particles are left behind in and around the teeth, harmful types of bacteria can feed on it, producing acid as a byproduct. The acid eats away at the minerals in the teeth and ultimate causes decay. Regardless of how well a dentist attacks the issue, even after drilling, the bacteria continue to exist.

Until now, dentists could only play defense, using fillings to prevent further damage from occurring. However, today, there is hope that dentists will soon have the ability to combat the bacteria more effectively. They may be able to use fillings, not just for defense, but to regenerate the lost tooth structure and to stave off any further attacks by bacteria.

The new nanocomposite that the team has developed would be good for more than ten years and contains an antibacterial primer and adhesive. These components of the filling are outfitted with high pH levels. The alkaline status helps to defend against any acid produced by bacteria. Additionally, the use of calcium phosphate allows for tooth remineralization, so the filled tooth actually grows in strength.

Testing will continue on the teeth of animals and humans in coming months and the team has submitted patent applications, so the hope is that everyday use will not be far off.

For more information on the nanocomposite and the promise it holds, continue reading the dental news article.