Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have developed a new dental treatment to protect the teeth from decay and acid erosion, using cutting-edge civil engineering technology used to create the Forth Bridge paint. The new treatment, Varnish VLC, is designed to combat tooth decay and acid erosion caused by everyday habits, particularly in children. The flake glass technology used to create Varnish VLC has been successfully used to protect tanks, vessels and pipelines from corrosion due to its excellent capabilities to protect against moisture and other harsh elements.
It has also been used in the maintenance of steel bridges, including the Forth Bridge, providing up to 25 years of protection before requiring major maintenance. This is the first time scientists have adapted this technology to create this novel treatment for tooth decay, a major concern for dentists in the UK. Varnish VLC mimics the natural properties of enamel, offering an effective way to reduce wear and prevent damage.
It might sound unusual, but the challenges are similar: both teeth and bridges are exposed to harsh conditions, both suffer from corrosion, and both are difficult to protect. This project shows the power of looking outside of traditional fields for inspiration." Dr.
Saroash Shahid, Reader in Dental Biomaterials at Queen Mary and lead researcher on the project Tooth decay affects one-third of children and nearly half of adults in England, leading to significant discomfort and expensive d.
