Tooth enamel serves to protect your teeth from cavity-causing bacteria, and while the enamel layer can be damaged, there is nothing we can consciously do to make it grow back.
Tooth erosion around the world is rising sharply, especially among the younger demographic. Researchers have developed a new toothpaste using keratin – the primary protein of hair, skin, and wool.
The rise of processed foods and acidic foods and drinks in modern diets are largely responsible for enamel loss. Experts are now predicting that enamel losses will lead to sensitivity, decay, and irreversible problems.
The great issue with enamel is that it does not regenerate like hair and bone, so scientists have needed to pivot to discover new ways to protect the enamel layer.
In studies done at King’s College London, researchers showed that keratin interacts with the minerals found in saliva. When keratin is placed on the surface of teeth, it then creates a scaffold-like crystal, which is a layer that mimics natural enamel and helps seal nerve channels to reduce sensitivity.
The keratin also acts like a magnifying lens to reduce damage surrounding damaged areas and help strengthen weak spots in the tooth.
Scientists in the King’s study took keratin from wool and placed it on tooth surfaces. They observed that the keratin formed a united, protective layer of crystals within itself.
It acted to attract calcium and phosphate from the ions and saliva. Over time, the coating became thicker and eventually developed into a structure resembling enamel.
Research published in Advanced Healthcare Materials has demonstrated that keratin-based treatments can repair the early stages of tooth decay.
They repair lost minerals and protect the teeth from sensitivity and wear and tear. “Once enamel is lost, it is gone forever,” stated Dr. Sherif Elsharkawy, senior author and prosthodontics companion, “this research could provide long-term solutions”.
The technology also employs sustainable proteins from nature, so it’s also environmentally friendly. “This technology converges biology and dentistry,” said Sara Gamea, PhD researcher and first author. The keratin toothpaste mimics natural processes to provide a safe and effective method of oral care.
Soon, keratin could come in various formations. You could use a daily toothpaste to maintain enamel health at home, while dentists could apply professional gels in clinics for targeted repair and restoration—one product serving both prevention and treatment.
Researchers expect keratin products to reach the market within two to three years, but they must first undergo clinical trials and gain industry support for commercial launch. The development of keratin offers the potential to reshape oral health and improvement and obtain European Standard (EN) recorded oral and dental repair.
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