If your teeth are damaged, there might be a new toothpaste arriving on the market in the next few years – with an unexpected ingredient.
Toothpaste made from your own hair may offer an effective and sustainable way to protect and repair damaged tooth enamel during the early signs of decay, according to a new study by King’s College London.
A team of scientists has discovered that keratin – a protein found in hair, skin and nails – produces a protective coating that mimics the structure and function of natural tooth enamel when it comes into contact with saliva. To study its effects, the scientists extracted keratin from animal wool, which has a similar composition to human hair.
Enamel erosion and decay are an ongoing challenge for dentists, with acidic foods and drinks, ageing and poor oral hygiene all contributing to the gradual breakdown of the tooth’s protective surface.
This can lead to tooth sensitivity, pain and ultimately tooth loss – and, “unlike bones and hair, enamel doesn’t regenerate,” says Dr Sherif Elsharkawy, senior author and consultant in prosthodontics at King’s College London. “Once it is lost, it’s gone forever.”
While fluoride toothpastes can slow the process, this pioneering keratin-based treatment has been found to stop it altogether.
When combined with the minerals naturally occurring in saliva, it forms a dense, crystal-like layer that protects the teeth, sealing off exposed nerve channels. These nerves cause sensitivity, so this new treatment not only helps prevent enamel decay – it also offers relief for existing symptoms.
In this new study, published in Advanced Healthcare Materials, the scientists extracted keratin from animal wool to create a structured scaffold over the tooth, which continued to attract calcium and phosphate ions – ultimately creating a protective enamel-like coating.
The substance could be applied using toothpaste at home on a daily basis, or as a professionally applied gel – similar to nail varnish – for targeted restorative repairs. This cheap, sustainable treatment could be available to the public in two to three years, Elsharkawy suggests.
“Keratin offers a transformative alternative to current dental treatments,” adds Sara Gamea, PhD researcher at King’s College and first author of the study.
“Not only is it sustainably sourced from biological waste materials like hair and skin, it also eliminates the need for traditional plastic resins, commonly used in restorative dentistry, which are toxic and less durable.
“Keratin also looks much more natural than these treatments, as it can more closely match the colour of the original tooth.”
Read more:
- Can you be allergic to human hair?
- 14 quick and simple ways to improve your teeth, according to dentists
- Sensitive teeth? Scientists discover why cold drinks and ice cream can be painful
Top image: Dr Sherif Elsharkawy shows off the animal wool used in this pioneering treatment (credit: King's College London)