We probably repeat it to you since childhood. Fluor is the benchmark trace element to strengthen the enamel of your teeth and slow down the erosion of the enamel. But another ingredient could go much further, it is keratin.
Keratin appears as an effective dental dressing
A study published on August 12 in the journal Advanced Healthcare Materials Demonstrates that keratin goes even further in terms of care: it would completely stop the erosion of enamel and promote natural regeneration of teeth. An effect that is easily explained. When keratin is applied to a tooth, it forms a protective coating.
“If you have a microfissure or a very small defect, it will heal itself without even realizing it”explains Dr. Sherif Elsharkawy, researcher in dental prostheses and co-author of the study. But how do you enjoy this magic protein?
A hair -based toothpaste … or wool
Keratin, often used in repairing shampoos, is naturally present in hair, skin and wool. But for their study, the team first extracted keratin from sheep wool fibers, an abundant material and often considered as a biodechet. “”This choice makes it possible to obtain a product that is both ecological and economical, while supporting the work of farmers “.
After applying the keratin film on a sample of teeth, scientists found that he formed, in contact with the minerals present in saliva, a ordered layer, solid and crystal clear, similar to biological enamel. For a month, this layer attracted calcium and phosphate ions, thus forming a hard protective layer on the tooth.
According to researcher Sara Gamea, the first author of the study, this approach “offers a revolutionary alternative to current treatments, which are often based on toxic and unusual plastic resins “. In addition, keratin has the advantage of being closer to the natural shade of teeth than traditional dental composites.
A product soon on the market?
According to the authors, the treatment could take two forms:
- A daily toothpasteto the appearance and taste of a classic fluorinted paste but enriched with keratin (menthol flavor, foaming texture … So no risk of inheriting a sheep’s breath);
- A professional freezeapplied in the office, similar to a protective varnish for the most advanced cases.
Researchers believe that these innovations could be available within two to three years for the general public. And ultimately, everyone could even provide their own hair to produce the necessary keratin …
A major advance for global dental health
Keratin in toothpaste seems to you a solution by hair? In reality, dental caries is the most widespread oral health problem in the world, affecting nearly 2 billion people. However, unlike bones and hair, dental enamel does not regenerate: once destroyed, it is lost forever.
Thanks to keratin, scientists hope to change the situation. “”We are entering an exciting era where biotechnology not only allows us to treat symptoms, but also to restore biological functions “concludes Dr. Elsharkawy.
It remains to be seen what time you can “shampouinate” your teeth.