New Gel May Restore Tooth Enamel

The material mimics the proteins involved in enamel formation during childhood, fills microcracks, and uses calcium and phosphate from saliva to grow a new mineral layer.

In tests simulating tooth brushing, chewing, and acid exposure, the restored surface behaved like healthy enamel. The gel can also seal exposed dentin and reduce tooth sensitivity.

The restored surface is mechanically similar to healthy enamel. A startup is already preparing the first product.

Sources:

1. University of Nottingham. "Goodbye, cavities? New gel could regrow tooth enamel." ScienceDaily (July 23, 2026).
2. Hasan A. et al. "Biomimetic supramolecular protein matrix restores structure and properties of human dental enamel." Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-64982-y.