Hair-Based Toothpaste: A New Weapon Against Tooth Decay?
Imagine a future where your toothpaste isn't just cleaning your teeth, but actually repairing them. Well, that future might be closer than you think. Scientists have discovered that keratin, a protein found in hair, skin, and even wool, has the potential to revolutionize dental care.
We all know that tooth enamel wears away over time. Acidic foods, poor oral hygiene, they all contribute. And once it's gone, it's gone, right? Traditional fluoride toothpaste can slow down the process, but it can't reverse the damage. That's where keratin comes in.
According to a new study, when keratin interacts with your saliva, it forms a protective layer on your teeth, kind of like a natural enamel. This layer not only shields your teeth from further damage but may also help to repair existing enamel. That's a game-changer!
The study highlights that keratin creates a dense, crystal-like structure that mimics the real enamel. And get this, over time, this structure attracts calcium and phosphate ions, leading to the growth of an enamel-like coating. So, keratin-based toothpaste could potentially reverse enamel erosion and seal exposed nerves, something traditional toothpastes can't do.
What's even cooler is that the keratin can be extracted from sustainable sources like wool or even human hair. I mean, talk about recycling! This also means it's a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional toothpastes that often contain plastic resins.
The researchers believe that keratin toothpaste could be available to consumers in the next two to three years. Regenerative dentistry is about to get a major upgrade!
Source: Gizmodo