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Blasting Away Cavities Using the Ultrasonic Toothbrush

Blasting Away Cavities Using the Ultrasonic Toothbrush

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Microscopic bombs and ultrasonic toothbrushes have the capacity to annihilate cavity-causing microorganisms.

Highlights:
  • Microscopic 'bombs' and ultrasonic toothbrushes team up to combat cavity-causing microorganisms
  • Innovative microcapsules filled with perfluorohexane (PFH) disintegrate under ultrasound, destroying harmful biofilms responsible for tooth decay and infections
  • Promising results show reduced enamel damage and cavities with the use of microbomb toothpaste and ultrasonic toothbrushes in experimental trials
Scientists at Wuhan University in China have developed a groundbreaking technique to combat the microorganisms responsible for cavities by utilizing microscopic "bombs" triggered by ultrasonic toothbrushes.
These "bombs" consist of tiny degradable capsules containing perfluorohexane (PFH), a liquid that rapidly expands into gas when exposed to ultrasound.

While PFH capsules have previously been used to deliver medications or target tumors, this study focuses on their potential in removing biofilms , which are bacterial aggregations commonly associated with tooth decay and infections.

Ultrasonic Toothbrushes Releases Microscopic Bombs to Eliminate Biofilm

The capsules, referred to as microbombs, are composed of calcium peroxide, iron, and tannic acid molecules.

When subjected to ultrasound, the PFH inside the capsules disintegrates, initiating a chain reaction that converts calcium peroxide into hydrogen peroxide. This process effectively destroys biofilms, eliminating the microorganisms responsible for dental issues.

To activate the microbombs, researchers propose using ultrasonic toothbrushes, which emit high-frequency sounds above the human hearing threshold to eliminate plaque and bacteria from teeth (1 Trusted Source
Dental Plaque Removal by Ultrasonic Toothbrushes

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).

The efficiency of the microbombs and ultrasound was tested on biofilms derived from human saliva, and the results showed complete eradication of visible bacteria.

In further experiments, researchers applied toothpaste containing the microbombs and used an ultrasonic toothbrush on rats with dental plaque for three consecutive weeks.

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Two additional groups of rats received either a conventional oral antiseptic or no treatment at all. The group that used the microbomb toothpaste exhibited minimal enamel damage and cavities compared to the other groups.

Stephen Evans, an expert from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, acknowledges the uniqueness of using microcapsules in this manner. However, he highlights the need to compare its effectiveness against a standard toothbrush in removing biofilms.

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The application of this technique in hard-to-reach areas also warrants further investigation.

The potential of this research is tremendous. By harnessing the power of ultrasonic toothbrushes and PFH-containing microbombs, we could revolutionize oral hygiene practices and significantly reduce the prevalence of cavities and dental infections.

The ability to destroy biofilms, which are often resilient and challenging to eliminate, opens up possibilities for improved dental care (2 Trusted Source
Biofilm and Dental Biomaterials

Go to source
).

Ultrasonic Toothbrushes can Deliver Hydrogen Peroxide at the Site of Action

Additionally, the use of microbombs offers advantages such as targeted delivery and controlled release of hydrogen peroxide.

This approach minimizes damage to healthy tissues while effectively eliminating harmful bacteria. Further studies and clinical trials will be essential to validate the safety, long-term efficacy, and practicality of this technique in a broader population.

The development of innovative strategies like these underscores the importance of scientific research in addressing oral health issues. As our understanding of microorganisms and their impact on dental health advances, we can expect to witness the emergence of more groundbreaking approaches aimed at improving oral hygiene and preventing dental diseases.

In conclusion, the utilization of microbombs triggered by ultrasonic toothbrushes shows great promise in combating the microorganisms responsible for cavities and dental infections.

This novel technique has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in destroying biofilms and preventing enamel damage.

While further research is necessary to fully explore its potential, the prospect of revolutionizing oral hygiene practices through this innovative approach is both exciting and encouraging for the future of dental care.

References:
  1. Dental Plaque Removal by Ultrasonic Toothbrushes - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32210213/)
  2. Biofilm and Dental Biomaterials - (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5455733/)


Source-Medindia


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