Nanoscale analysis reveals a way to prevent tooth erosion caused by carbonated drinks

A Korean research team has previously used nanotechnology to visualize and scientifically prove the negative effects of carbonated drinks such as cola on dental health, but now they have demonstrated the effectiveness of these drinks in preventing tooth damage. The mechanism of this method was identified.

A team led by Professor Seung-beom Hong from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at KAIST collaborated with research teams led by Professor Seung-beom Hong from the Seoul National University School of Dentistry (Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Oral Microbiology) and the Department of Chemistry to investigate the effects of silver diamine fluoride (SDF). Nanotechnology erosion that forms a protective layer containing fluoride on the tooth surface, effectively inhibiting cola-induced periodontal disease.

The study is published in the journal Biomaterials Research.

The research team used atomic force microscopy (AFM) to analyze the surface morphology and mechanical properties of tooth enamel at the nanoscale. We also investigated the chemical properties of the nanofilms formed by SDF treatment using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).

The results showed that there were significant differences in surface roughness and elastic modulus between teeth exposed to cola and those with and without SDF treatment. Teeth treated with SDF showed minimal change in surface roughness due to erosion (from 64 nm to 70 nm) and maintained high elastic modulus (from 215 GPa to 205 GPa).

This can be attributed to the formation of a fluoroapatite layer by SDF, which acts as a protective shield.

Professor Young J. Kim of Seoul National University’s School of Pediatric Dentistry said, “This technology has the potential to be applied to prevent tooth erosion and strengthen teeth in both children and adults. It is cost-effective and easy to use. “It’s an easy dental treatment.”

Professor Hong said: “Dental health has a major impact on quality of life. This research goes beyond traditional surgical treatment and provides an effective non-invasive method to prevent early tooth erosion. Simply applying SDF can prevent tooth erosion and strengthen the enamel, potentially preventing tooth erosion.” Pain and costs associated with treatment. ”