Peptides in Dentistry – Going Without Fillings

Peptides in dentistry – new treatment techniques allow for the healing of tooth cavities without fillings

Peptides and peptide complexes used in dental practice have shown to stimulate the growth of tooth enamel, which means that we finally have a revolutionary way to treat tooth decay. In 2018, researchers from Washington University announced the development of a treatment based on peptides – short chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, which are not long enough to be considered full-fledged proteins. When applied to artificially created tooth damage, the experimental product remineralized tooth enamel, effectively “healing” the lesions. Thus, peptide-controlled remineralization is a healthy alternative to existing dental care. Tooth enamel is produced by cells called ameloblasts; these cells secrete proteins that form enamel while the tooth is still in the gums. Unfortunately, after the formation of tooth enamel and the emergence of the tooth, our ameloblasts die. But we continue to lose enamel throughout our lives. Bacteria metabolize sugar and other fermentable carbohydrates in the oral cavity, and acid as a byproduct demineralizes tooth enamel. As soon as a visible cavity appears on a tooth, it needs to be filled, which usually involves drilling and filling the hole with dental filling material. The new generation of enamel damage treatment and prevention – treatment using peptides – leads us to small proteins (peptides) that are produced by ameloblasts. These proteins, called amelogenins, play a key role in regulating enamel formation. Short peptides developed were applied to tooth lesions in laboratory conditions and it was found that a new mineralized layer was formed in the already demineralized areas, integrating with the enamel below it. Treatment of such lesions with fluoride yielded no results, and only peptide treatment led to remineralization of a rather thick layer resembling the structure of healthy enamel. For future steps in implementing this product in the clinic, additional tests will be needed, additional research is necessary to see how the peptide solution works in patients and whether the results are as reliable as in the laboratory. Peptide-based formulations will be simple, and their use is planned in over-the-counter or clinical products available without a doctor’s prescription.”