Nano-features and nano-particles in restorative dentistry
Two technologies are currently under investigation, nano-fibre coatings to encourage linear cellular growth and mineral nano-particles in a colloidal suspension to interact with the damaged tooth.
Nano-fibre coatings
The investigation of the biological effect of nano-fibre coatings on the trans-mucosal element of the endosseous dental implants. Human gingival fibroblast cells have demonstrated the ability to align, proliferate and secrete collagen in the direction of the nano fibres in preference to other topographies. We hypothesise that if this topography is applied in a circumferential dierection around the implant abutment, gingival fibroblasts will align to this surface nanotopography, leading to the secretion of collagen fibres circumferentially around the implant, forming a tight fibrous collar This fibrous soft tissue attachment will protect the underlying osseous attachment from bacterial attack and breakdown.
Right: Top is a light interferometry image demonstrating the linear arrangement of the PTFE nanofibres on a bio-medical grade titanium substrate. The second image is a light micrograph showing human gingival fibroblasts (as you would find around a dental implant) aligned in a linear fashion along the PTFE nanofibres, even though the fibres are only about ten nanometres high.
Colloidal nano-particles
The investigation of the ability of colloidal nano-particles (Hydroxy-apatite, silica, an analogue of silica or a calcium compound) to infiltrate demineralised (carious) dentine and act as a "seed" for further remineralisation. It is our hypothesis that the application of an appropriate formulation of colloidal nano-particle to a carious lesion may prevent further demineralisation and given the right environment it may encourage remineralisation.
Researchers engaged in this work are Dr Nicolas Martin and Alex Besinis.