Researchers at King's College London have discovered an unusual property of keratin. It turns out that this protein, derived from human and animal hair, not only protects teeth from decay but can also repair damaged tooth enamel.
Second only to chitin, keratin forms a protective crystalline framework on the tooth surface when interacting with calcium and phosphate ions in saliva. This framework is comparable in structure and function to natural tooth enamel, which, unlike bone, does not regenerate.
In their experiments, the scientists used keratin extracted from wool, but the same protein is also found in human hair, nails, skin, and mammalian needles, horns, and hooves. The researchers plan to create a keratin-based toothpaste or gel that can be applied to the tooth surface. It is anticipated that such a product could be commercially available within 2-3 years.
This discovery could offer an environmentally friendly alternative to current regenerative dentistry methods. Doctors currently use synthetic resins to protect and repair teeth, but their cosmetic effects are short-lived. Standard fluoride toothpastes and mouthwashes can cause allergic reactions and side effects, including noticeable white stains on teeth.
