Wouldn’t it be amazing (and convenient!) if teeth could repair themselves?
In fact, our teeth already have a limited ability to repair themselves. In cases of infection or trauma, our teeth have the ability to create a thin layer of dentine — the dense tissue underneath the enamel — to protect the soft pulp on the inside of the tooth. However, this is not enough to fully heal teeth that have suffered large cavities or extreme trauma. This is why dentists use fillings and crowns to repair teeth that have been damaged or depleted.
While fillings are a fairly reliable method to repair teeth, if those fillings develop decay around them or fracture, dentists have to remove an even larger area of the tooth, which could eventually lead to a tooth needing an invasive root canal or even extraction.
But there’s hope: Exciting new research could be changing that.
Stem Cell Stimulation Could Be the Answer
A team of researchers at King’s College London recently discovered a breakthrough new method for stimulating stem cells to regrow teeth. This new method allows the stimulation of the stem cells that are found in that soft pulp that comprises the insides of our teeth. This stimulation will activate the already present ability to generate new dentine, but in larger quantities than teeth are capable of on their own. This could theoretically replace the need for fillings completely.
Here’s how it works: Researchers took note of one of the molecules used in clinical trials to treat Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders. Tests using biodegradable collagen sponges to apply the molecule to damaged teeth were successful. Over time, the collagen sponge degraded and in its place was new dentine.
The collagen sponges used in the tests are both commercially available and clinically approved, meaning that this method of natural tooth repair will be accessible and easy for dentist’s offices to use. Not to mention that the use of this molecule in Alzheimer’s testing gives it a quicker path to approval for use in dentistry.
Dentists Will Have to Do It Until Your Teeth Can
Since this method is not yet available at your local dentist’s office, your teeth will need some help with repair. Luckily, Dr. Kevin Siegel is prepared to help repair any kind of tooth damage that you might have.
In case of cavities, tooth-colored fillings are custom blended to match the color of your teeth for the most natural look. Our hydroabrasion technique is gentle, precise, painless, and eliminates the risks that accompany drilling.
Chips or cracks are easy to repair with dental bonding. This durable type of restoration is affordable and can be completed in a single visit. Or, if you’re looking for something stronger and longer-lasting, our CEREC dental crowns are custom-crafted to be beautiful, natural-looking, and even stronger than your own teeth.
If you need tooth repair in Blue Bell, PA, call us at (610) 272-0828 or request an appointment online.
