New technology preserves decayed teeth

The chemistry was just right.

It began with a quick meeting between researchers at the University of Otago, organised along the lines of speed dating.

The aim was to boost mutual awareness and promote multidisciplinary study.

Dentistry met chemistry, and the result was a new way to preserve decayed teeth and prolong the life of dental fillings.

New technology using specially formulated, non-staining silver nanoparticles has been invented through a partnership between the Otago chemistry department and the School of Dentistry.

The product is applied by a dentist after decay has been removed and before filling.

It diffuses into the tooth, killing any remaining bacteria that may cause further decay.

Otago chemistry lecturer Dr Carla Meledandri said working on the project had been ''fantastic'' and an ''incredible opportunity'' to make a difference.

The technology would also help reduce pain and other complications arising from tooth decay, including potentially adverse effects on heart health.

She was delighted the venture was already producing a positive outcome.

Otago Innovation Ltd, an Otago University company involved in commercialising university research, recently licensed the rights to the invention to an overseas-based global dental materials manufacturer for further product development.

''We're all acutely aware that the taxpayers pay our salary,'' Dr Meledandri said.

''It's nice to know that we can give something back.''

There was also scope to develop two other related nanoparticle products which could contribute to improved dental health, she said.

An Otago University statement said the invention was unique because it did not discolour the teeth.

All other available products that used silver to arrest caries turned teeth black, and therefore had not been widely accepted by patients or dental practitioners, it said.

Dr Don Schwass, a senior lecturer and prosthodontist in the department of oral rehabilitation at the dental school, said the new non-staining formula would be an important step forward for oral care and public health.

''The result will be that recurrent caries will be significantly reduced and dental fillings will last longer, providing both economic and health benefits,'' Dr Schwass said.

Source: http://www.odt.co.nz/campus/university-otago/355870/new-technology-preserves-decayed-teeth

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