Tooth enamel, the hardest substance in the human body, has one major weakness: once lost, it cannot regenerate naturally. But a recent breakthrough may soon change that. Scientists have discovered a way to use keratin, a protein derived from sheep’s wool, to create an enamel-like coating capable of repairing microscopic defects in teeth.
This innovative biocompatible material mimics the crystalline structure of enamel, allowing it to bond with the tooth surface and restore its protective function. Unlike traditional fillings or sealants that rely on synthetic resins, keratin offers a sustainable and non-toxic alternative. Early lab results show promise for preventing early caries progression and enhancing tooth durability.
If successfully translated into clinical dentistry, keratin-based enamel regeneration could revolutionize preventive care, reducing the need for drilling, improving long-term outcomes, and offering patients a more natural restoration option. For dentists, it’s an exciting step toward bio-mimetic dentistry, where science helps nature heal itself. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40793834/
MBH/PS