Can a new dental gel repair damaged tooth enamel? What scientists say

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Researchers have developed a protein-based gel that could help repair damaged tooth enamel, offering hope for future dental treatments, although further testing is needed ...

Scientists have developed a gel that could one day help dentists rebuild damaged tooth enamel, potentially offering a new way to treat tooth erosion and sensitivity.

The material, created by researchers at the University of Nottingham in the UK, uses proteins to encourage the growth of minerals that form the protective outer layer of teeth.

The findings were published in the journal Nature Communications in November 2025 and have recently attracted renewed attention.

Although the results are promising, the treatment has so far been tested in laboratory conditions rather than established as an effective treatment for patients.

Tooth enamel is the hard outer layer that protects teeth from everyday wear, changes in temperature and acids produced by bacteria.

Unlike bones, enamel does not contain living cells capable of rebuilding it once significant amounts have been lost.

Saliva and fluoride treatments can help replace minerals during the earliest stages of damage, but they cannot fully recreate enamel that has worn away.

The gel contains specially designed proteins that imitate some of the natural processes involved in forming enamel during childhood.

When applied to damaged enamel, it creates a thin framework that helps attract calcium and phosphate, minerals naturally found in saliva.

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