Toothpaste from hair protein repairs enamel.
New toothpaste made from hair protein could repair and protect damaged teeth.
Why it matters
- Keratin from hair can repair tooth enamel and stop early decay.
- Enamel does not regenerate naturally; this offers a new solution.
By the numbers
- Study published in Advanced Healthcare Materials.
- Keratin forms a protective coating mimicking natural enamel.
The big picture
- Eco-friendly biomaterial could replace toxic plastic resins in dentistry.
- Technology bridges biology and dentistry.
What they're saying
- Interest in commercial availability of keratin toothpaste.
- Humor about using one's own hair.
Caveats
- More development and industry partnerships needed for commercialization.
What’s next
- Potential for growing stronger, healthier smiles from biological waste materials.
- Further development and industry partnerships needed.