A revolutionary research signed King’s College London paves the way for a sustainable toothpaste and clinically effective, made with a protein contained in hair and wool: the keratin. According to scientists, this substance can repair tooth enamel damaged e prevent tooth decayexploiting a completely natural process that imitates that of our organism.
Unlike bones and hair, tooth enamel does not regenerate: Once lost, the damage is irreversible. But scholars have discovered that, in contact with the minerals in salivakeratin is capable of form a highly organized crystalline scaffoldsimilar to the structure of the original enamel. This coating not only protects the tooth from acid attacks, but seals exposed nerve channelsthus reducing sensitivity and providing long-lasting relief.
Because keratin in toothpaste is the game changer
The consumption of acidic foods, poor oral hygiene and aging are the main causes ofenamel erosionresulting in pain, sensitivity and tooth loss. Currently, fluoride toothpastes only succeed in slow down this process; instead, according to researchers, keratin can stop it completelycreating a resistant and long-lasting protective layer.
As explained by Dr. Sherif Elsharkawysenior author of the study and specialist in prosthodontics, this discovery marks an important step forward in regenerative dentistry. The treatment could be integrated into a common toothpaste for everyday use or professionally applied as a gelsimilar to nail polish, for a more targeted action.
The study, published on Advanced Healthcare Materialsconfirmed that keratin, once applied to the tooth, continues to attract calcium and phosphate ionsstrengthening the enamel-like layer over time. The result is one highly effective protective coverwhich restores both the function and natural appearance of the tooth.
Sustainability and biotechnology
In addition to the extraordinary clinical efficacy, this technology has a decidedly positive environmental impact. As highlighted by researcher Sara Gameafirst author of the study, keratin can be obtained from biological waste such as hair and skintransforming them into reusable clinical materialsin line with the principles of the circular economy.
Furthermore, unlike the traditional synthetic resinsoften toxic and not long-lasting, keratin is more resistant, less polluting and visually more naturalas it comes close to original coloring of the teeth.
The project is not limited to theory: the team is already working towards bring the technology to market within two to three yearsin collaboration with industrial partners in the sector. A real one carried out in oral carewhich unites science, sustainability and biotechnology.
As Dr. Elsharkawy stated:
We are entering an exciting era, where biotechnology doesn’t just treat symptoms, but restores biological functions using natural materials from the body itself. One day we could really go back to having a strong and healthy smile… starting with a simple haircut.
