A new study published in Advanced Healthcare Materials has found that keratin — a natural protein found in hair, skin and wool — can be used to rebuild and protect tooth enamel, potentially eliminating the need for fillings or fluoride-based treatments. Researchers at King’s College London discovered that when keratin comes into contact with calcium and phosphate ions in saliva, it forms a crystal-like coating that closely mimics natural enamel, strengthening teeth and preventing early decay.
Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but unlike bone, it cannot regenerate once damaged. Everyday factors such as acidic food and drink, tooth grinding, and age-related wear slowly erode enamel, leading to sensitivity, cavities and long-term dental problems. Traditional treatment methods, including fluoride, can slow decay but cannot fully rebuild lost enamel.
Video
How keratin toothpaste repairs teeth
Keratin forms a dense mineral scaffold that integrates with the existing tooth surface. This scaffold attracts calcium and phosphate over time, gradually rebuilding a protective enamel-like layer. The research team found that this restored layer improves both the structure and function of the tooth, sealing nerve pathways that cause sensitivity and reinforcing the surface against further erosion.
The keratin used in the study was extracted from wool, but scientists noted it can also be sourced from hair and other biological waste materials, offering a more sustainable alternative to current dental resins and fillings. Unlike synthetic materials, keratin blends more naturally with tooth structure, producing a closer colour and texture match.
When could it be available?
Researchers are currently exploring commercial applications, including daily-use toothpaste and professional repair gels. If development continues as expected, keratin-based enamel regeneration treatments could be available to the public within the next two to three years, marking a major advance in regenerative dentistry.
Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but unlike bone, it cannot regenerate once damaged. Everyday factors such as acidic food and drink, tooth grinding, and age-related wear slowly erode enamel, leading to sensitivity, cavities and long-term dental problems. Traditional treatment methods, including fluoride, can slow decay but cannot fully rebuild lost enamel.
Video
How keratin toothpaste repairs teeth
Keratin forms a dense mineral scaffold that integrates with the existing tooth surface. This scaffold attracts calcium and phosphate over time, gradually rebuilding a protective enamel-like layer. The research team found that this restored layer improves both the structure and function of the tooth, sealing nerve pathways that cause sensitivity and reinforcing the surface against further erosion.
The keratin used in the study was extracted from wool, but scientists noted it can also be sourced from hair and other biological waste materials, offering a more sustainable alternative to current dental resins and fillings. Unlike synthetic materials, keratin blends more naturally with tooth structure, producing a closer colour and texture match.
When could it be available?
Researchers are currently exploring commercial applications, including daily-use toothpaste and professional repair gels. If development continues as expected, keratin-based enamel regeneration treatments could be available to the public within the next two to three years, marking a major advance in regenerative dentistry.
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