Japan creates permanent anti-decay patch

Japanese scientists have successfully built an ultra-thin patch capable of covering, protecting teeth from decay and whitening teeth, according to AFP news on September 16.

This new invention is called 'tooth patch' , a form of matter that is capable of creating a hard coating for teeth and is primarily composed of hydroxyapatite (the main constituent of tooth enamel).

Scientists assessing 'tooth patches' will put an end to tooth decay.

'We hope the new invention will help protect and restore damaged enamel. Dentists often think that making a patch of tooth enamel is unimaginable, but we are aiming for it , 'said Professor Shigeki Hontsu at Kinki University (Japan).

Scientists say it is possible to create a thin 0.004mm tooth patch by laser-burning the compressed hydroxyapatite blocks to extract particles of this substance.

Tooth patch made by scientists from Kinki University (Japan) - (Photo: AFP)

These particles are then placed on a mass of heated salt to precipitate, before dissolving in water.

Scientists pour the mixture on a paper filter and dry it. The dry product is the tooth patch.

'When you put the patch into your teeth, they will become invisible. You can only see them if you bring them under the light, 'AFP cited Professor Hontsu's statement.

There are many small holes on the patch, allowing water and air to circulate to avoid air bubbles between the patch and the teeth.

However, the problem is that it takes nearly a day for the patch to stick to the surface of the tooth, according to Professor Hontsu.

Tooth patch may also be added to the teeth whitening feature.

Scientists at Kinki University are conducting dental patch testing on human teeth that are no longer in use, but the team will soon switch to experiments on animal teeth.

Professor Hontsu said he will also try the tooth patch on his own teeth.