Nanotechnology save people from tooth decay

American researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and Rochester found new means of combating plaque. They have adapted spherical nanoparticles to deliver drugs to the surface of the teeth, to stop the work of harmful bacteria, whose activities harm tooth enamel.

Bacterium Streptococcus mutans is formed on the surface of teeth биоплёнку and recovered during the life of the acid, which gradually erodes tooth enamel. This leads to tooth decay, and ultimately to tooth loss.

Scientists have managed to create nanospheres filled with medication, which are attached to both the enamel and formed a biofilm on its surface. As a result, the external environment weakens the shell spheres and issues outside medicine, фарнезол (which, by the way, has the smell of lilies of the valley). Thus, the highest yield of drugs occurs in areas with the highest chemical activity - that is where it is most needed.

Tests on rats have shown that by applying the new method of drug twice daily can significantly reduce the size and number of lesions of teeth. Under the influence of drugs nanocapsules biofilm decomposes, not only reduces acid secretion, but also more effectively removed by means of mechanical impact, in particular when cleaning the teeth. It is interesting that this effect is observed only when the capsules for drug delivery to the destination - the introduction of free farnesol does not give little or no effect.

The method also allows to deal with the biofilm of bacteria that occurs on the surface of medical devices such as orthopedic implants.

It is hoped that in the near future science will free people from suffering, as related to the deterioration of the teeth, and with the need to pay неадекватно expensive dental services.

Source: geektimes.ru/post/248880/