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Bioactive Spheres: The Way of Treating Dentin Hypersensitivity
Wei Xia1, Tao Qin1, Felicia Suska2
1Applied Materials Science, Department of Engineering Sciences, Uppsala University, Lägerddsv 1, 75120 Uppsala, Sweden.
ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering
|January 14, 2021
Summary
New bioactive strontium-substituted calcium phosphate spheres effectively occlude dentinal tubules, providing a promising at-home treatment for dental hypersensitivity by forming a durable mineralized layer.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Research
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Dental hypersensitivity is often caused by exposed dentinal tubules.
- Effective long-term relief requires sealing these tubules.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and evaluate bioactive hollow spheres of strontium-substituted calcium phosphate for treating dental hypersensitivity.
- To investigate the spheres' efficacy in occluding dentinal tubules and promoting mineralization.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of bioactive hollow spheres (strontium-substituted calcium phosphate).
- Incorporation of spheres into toothpaste for brushing trials.
- Microscopic analysis of dentin surfaces and tubule occlusion after brushing.
Main Results:
- Spheres (up to 20 μm) penetrated and occluded exposed dental tubules within 3 days of brushing.
- A two-layered mineralized surface formed: a porous outer layer and a dense, acid-resistant apatite inner layer.
- Strontium-substituted calcium phosphate spheres demonstrated significant tubule occlusion and mineralization.
Conclusions:
- Bioactive strontium-substituted calcium phosphate spheres are effective in occluding dentinal tubules.
- The dense apatite layer provides durable protection against acid challenges.
- These spheres represent a promising candidate for at-home treatment of dental hypersensitivity.
