Enhancing the benefits and effectiveness of Novamin for dentine hypersensitivity and remineralisation of dental tissues

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Tooth hypersensitivity affects around 30% of the population. This issue originates due to enamel loss or gun recession and the exposure of dentine tubules to the oral environment. Treatment is possible through the use of toothpastes containing active ingredients which occlude the dentine tubules preventing the transfer of stimuli to the nerves of the tooth. These active ingredients also provide a protective layer over any exposed dentin and provide a range of elements which can enhance the level of mineralisation of the tissue. In partnership with GlaxoSmithKline, the PhD will investigate methods of enhancing the three afore mentioned beneficial effects of their current sensitivity treating toothpaste formulation. The candidate will have the opportunity to be trained to use a range of characterisation and imaging techniques during the project.The project will use nanomechanical and nanotribological testing to determine and compare the different protective layers formed by the toothpastes as well as a number of material characterisation techniques to identify the variables affecting the layers performance. In addition the project will use a range of imaging techniques including Serial block face scanning electron microscopy to look at the level of tubule occlusion and penetration of the active ingredients into the tubules, as well as the level of mineralisation change due to the treatment. Transmission electron microscopy, will also be used to identify the key elements effecting the mineralisation change and how they have integrated with the tissue.