Scientists Unveil Self-Repairing Bioactive Glass Fillings

The Daily Mail reported in continuing coverage that scientists at the Queen Mary University of London have developed a new compound for tooth fillings, known as bioactive glass, that “not only blocks cavities but repairs bacterial damage.” According to the article, “The filling is made from bioactive glass composites that release fluoride as well as calcium and phosphate needed to form tooth mineral.” Professor Robert Hill, who helped develop the technology, said the new compound “fills in the gaps with tooth mineral thus preventing the oral bacteria which cause tooth decay from establishing themselves.” Professor Hill adds, “Research suggests this will potentially prolong the life of fillings and slow secondary tooth decay because the depth of bacterial penetration with bioactive glass fillings was significantly smaller than for inert fillings.”