Nanodiamonds might prevent tooth loss after root canals

Nanodiamonds may help patients that have had the dreaded root canal. Dental researchers have developed a nanodiamond-reinforced version of gutta percha, the compound that is used to fill void spaces in dental root canals to prevent infection that can lead to tooth loss. Tested in patient-extracted teeth, the nanodiamond-embedded polymer was substantially stronger than conventional gutta percha. In addition, the scientists tested gutta percha with nanodiamonds that had been loaded with antibiotics and found that the compound effectively prevented bacterial infection.

Source: ScienceDaily Headlines - October 17, 2015 Category: Science Source Type: news