Goodbye cavities? This new toothpaste made from hair can heal enamel

Scientists from King’s College London discovered that keratin can rebuild tooth enamel and halt the early stages of decay. When keratin interacts with the minerals found in saliva, it forms a coating that closely replicates the composition and protective function of natural enamel.

Dr. Sherif Elsharkawy, senior author and consultant in prosthodontics at King’s College London, explained: “Unlike bones and hair, enamel does not regenerate, once it is lost, it’s gone forever.”

Protecting Teeth from Erosion and Cavities

Everyday habits, from drinking acidic beverages to poor brushing routines, wear away enamel over time. This erosion can lead to sensitivity, discomfort, and eventually tooth loss. While fluoride toothpaste helps slow this process, the keratin-based formulation in the new study went further, completely preventing it in laboratory tests.

Keratin creates a dense, mineralized barrier over the tooth’s surface, blocking the nerve channels responsible for sensitivity. This not only protects against further damage but also provides immediate relief from discomfort, addressing both cause and symptom.

The researchers envision the treatment being available in two forms: a daily-use toothpaste or a professional gel applied by dentists, similar to nail varnish. According to the team, keratin-based enamel repair products could be accessible to the public within two to three years.

How Keratin Helps Teeth Heal Themselves

In the study, published in Advanced Healthcare Materials, scientists extracted keratin from wool and applied it to tooth surfaces. When exposed to the natural minerals present in saliva, the protein organized itself into a crystal-like structure that mimicked real enamel.

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