Bioactive glasses for the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity

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Dentin Hypersensitivity ("tooth sensitivity") is a common clinical condition that results in sharp pain and affects about half the adult population. The main cause is due to enamel loss, either through to periodontal disease (e.g., gingivitis) or through diet (e.g., acidic foods and drinks), which exposes the underlying dentin layer and cannot be repaired by the body. Current treatment methods either mask the underlying problem through desensitizing the root nerves or require long treatment times to form a protected layer on the dentin surface.We have invented a novel platform technology, in the form of a bioactive glass, that can rapidly convert to bone-like mineral (e.g., enamel) at a rate of over 25 times faster than the current, commercially used bioactive glasses. This rapid conversion time will potentially translate into rapid hypersensitivity relief for the patient.In this project, we propose to advance this technology as a commercially viable product by examining the scalability of the processing as well as develop a prototype dental paste incorporating our bioactive glass for use in in-office treatment of sensitivity. We will work in collaboration with the Xerox Research Center of Canada with extensive expertise in bringing laboratory scale materials to a commercial scale. Additionally, we will develop and test the paste. Completion of these goals will create a product that can rapidly relieve tooth sensitivity.Our ultimate aim is to establish a Canadian start-up company as a bioactive glass manufacturer that will be used in a number of biomedical applications, including the dental field and will directly improve the quality of Canadian lives.