Application of next generation electrochemistry and imaging methods to deliver new insights for the care of oral cavity

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This project is bringing to bear novel nanoscale functional imaging techniques based on scanned electrochemical probes to map the properties and reactivity of dental enamel. We are using a nanopipette based technique called scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) as a new approach to visualise the charge on dental enamel and determine how this changes in the presence of acids that are implicated in erosion and caries, both of which are serious conditions that lead to tooth loss. We are further introducing new methods for studying the dissolution (loss) of enamel at the nanoscale using SICM and how surface treatments inhibit the dissolution. We are extending the methods to charge mapping of bacteria on surfaces. As a whole, these studies greatly advance the capabilities of SICM not only in the dental field, but for interfacial science generally and provide a foundation for future diverse applications in the physical sciences. The methods are quantitative by virtue of detailed finite element method (FEM) modelling which is able to predict the SICM response.