The new filling uses thiourethane, a protective coating for car bumpers and wood decks. Combined with a new adhesive that is expected to be 30 percent stronger after six months, the composite is designed to extend the lifespan of a filling.
“Today’s dental restorations typically only last seven to 10 years before they fail,” Carmen Pfeifer, DDS, PhD, a study author said. “They crack under the pressure of chewing, or have gaps form between the filling and the tooth, which allow bacteria to seep in and a new cavity to form”
The new adhesive uses methacrylamide, a polymer, that is more resistant to damage in water, bacteria and enzymes in the mouth. Additionally, the new composite is aimed to protect against damage from chewing.
A study in Scientific Reports further describes the new filling material. The authors also published their work on the adhesive in Dental Materials.
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