Investigating the Interfacial Biochemistry of Dental Enamel by Multifunctional Scanning Ion Conductance Microscopy

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We shall use novel Scanning Ion Chemical Microscopy (SICM) methods, developed in house at Warwick, to measure the protective effects of new treatments on enamel surfaces against acid attack by weak acids. The approaches we shall adopt will enable mineralisation processes to be studied in far greater detail than has been previously possible. The ultimate aim is to generate deeper understanding of caries pathogenesis to deliver insights for new preventive strategies or therapeutic approaches. In year one, we shall adapt current techniques and give the student experience in experimental and modelling methods, to allow measurement of biologically relevant organic acids with or without pellicle. In year 2, the effect of differing times of organic acid exposure (matched to biofilm concentration and composition) to varying treatments (from Unilever), with and without pellicle, will serve as a model system to evaluate the hypothesis. Based on previous research, it is likely that the presence of pellicle will increase the efficacy of treatment, but the dynamics are unknown. In years 3 and 4, the role of remineralising agents in protecting and repairing the enamel surface will be studied. In particular, the impact of fluoride and calcium-based technologies on enamel demineralisation will be studied in detail, at unprecedentedly small length and timescales.