Yorkshire scientists may have banished pain of dentist’s drill

Experts from Leeds University claim that the move could transform the approach to fillings forever by reversing the damage of acid attack and rebuilding teeth as new.

It could also change attitudes to dentists which mean many people are discouraged from going for even simple check-ups over fears of drills.

The approach involves using a fluid, designed by researchers in the university’s school of chemistry, which dentists paint onto a tooth to treat the first signs of decay.

This seeps into the micro-pores caused by acid and forms a gel, providing a scaffold that attracts calcium and regenerates the tooth’s mineral from within.

Professor Jennifer Kirkham, of Leeds Dental Institute, said: “This may sound too good to be true, but we are essentially helping acid-damaged teeth to regenerate themselves.

“It is a totally natural non-surgical repair process and is entirely pain-free too.”

Colleague Prof Paul Brunton said initial tests on patients in Leeds were “extremely promising”.

“The main reason that people don’t go to the dentist regularly is fear,” he said.

“If we can offer a treatment that is completely non-invasive, that doesn’t involve a mechanical drill, then we can change that perceived link between dental treatment and pain.

“This really is more than filling without drilling, this is a novel approach that enables the patients to keep their natural teeth.”

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