| STUDY |
Today's filling materials, authors explain, do just that--they plug the cavities caused by decay and the dentist's drill. "But soon biologically active filling materials may be available that stimulate the tooth to repair itself. The new materials contain amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) as a bioactive mineral encapsulated in a polymer binder. ACP releases calcium and phosphate to neighboring tooth structures in proportions that form hydroxyapatite (HAP), a mineral found naturally in teeth and bone. Authors say ACP could be used for fillings in small cavities and to seal pits and fissures in teeth where bits of food can accumulate and cause decay. The ACP composite is also useful as an adhesive for orthodontics, they say, helping to prevent the tooth breakdown that commonly occurs around braces. Authors have already tested the material in cow teeth, and they expect to begin clinical trials in humans in the near future. "The unique composite is not useful for large cavities because the material is not as strong as conventional filling materials." In the future, he says, biodegradable polymers may be used with ACP to repair the delicate bones involved in facial reconstruction or as an aid in the healing of bone fractures. |
| UPDATE | 06.03 |
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