Torrance Dentist, Dr. Robert Mondavi, Comments on Use of Proteins to Rebuild Tooth Enamel

    TORRANCE, CA, June 12, 2018 /24-7PressRelease/ -- In the past, the only way to address a cavity was with a filling: The tooth would be permanently damaged and could only be repaired. However, researchers at the University of Washington have come up with an alternative that may actually heal the tooth. Torrance dentist, Dr. Robert Mondavi, comments on the research showing how proteins can be used to rebuild lost tooth enamel.

Oral acids break down the minerals in teeth in a process known as demineralization. The minerals are replaced daily in a process called remineralization, which occurs when minerals in the foods and drinks are deposited back into the enamel. Unfortunately, the process can become imbalanced, and the rate of demineralization can outpace the rate of remineralization, resulting in a cavity.

New research, which was published in "ACS Biomaterials Science and Engineering," revealed that biogenic dental products may be able to rebuild enamel and cure cavities without the need for dental fillings. Researchers used peptides from amelogenin, a protein that is essential to enamel mineralization, in their research. The peptides combined with calcium and phosphate ions and bound to the surfaces of the teeth. This resulted in the deposition of between 10 and 50 micrometers of enamel per use.

While this technology is still in the research stage, once it has been fully explored and developed, it may be used in clinical settings, public or private offices, and in prescription or over-the-counter applications. Not only can it help treat existing areas of decay but may also be used to strengthen enamel every day as a part of a patient's routine dental hygiene.

About Dr. Robert Mondavi

"The field of dentistry is always changing, and because of that, I strive to stay up-to-date on leading-edge techniques and treatments," said Dr. Mondavi. "I'm always looking for ways to advance whether it be from continuing courses, other dentists or through hands-on experiences." Dr. Mondavi graduated from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco in 1993 and has taken multiple advanced courses since then, including programs in advanced implant training and advanced cosmetic dentistry training. He offers complete dental care, including smile makeovers, tooth-colored fillings, porcelain veneers, dental crowns, periodontal treatments, bridges and dentures.

Source: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/04/180412154459.htm

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