Geelsu Hwang, PhD, is working with collaborators to create a dental implant that interferes with biofilms and combats infection using chemical compounds to resist bacteria and LEDs that deliver phototherapy with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Dr. Hwang said these elements could one day be applied to joint replacements as well.
Dr. Hwang was given a five-year grant from the National Institutes of Health to support the development of the dental implant, according to an April 23 news release.