HONG KONG, Jan. 23 -- Researchers have developed a bioactive peptide that coats tooth surfaces, helping prevent new cavities and heal existing ones in lab experiments.
Cavities, or dental caries, are the most widespread non-communicable disease globally, according to the World Health Organisation.
Having a cavity drilled and filled at the dentist's office can be painful, but untreated caries could lead to worse pain, tooth loss, infection, and even illness or death.
Conventional treatment for dental cavities involves removing decayed tissue and filling the hole with materials, such as amalgam or composite resin.
However, this procedure can damage healthy tissue and cause severe discomfort for patients.
For the findings, published in th...