London( The COW News Digital) A groundbreaking study has revealed that toothpaste made from hair-derived protein could help repair teeth and prevent early-stage tooth loss, offering a potential breakthrough in oral health.
Researchers at King’s College London discovered that keratin, a protein naturally found in hair, skin, and wool—and commonly used in shampoos—can also play a vital role in protecting and repairing tooth enamel.
Dr. Sherif Elsharkawy, a leading scientist on the project, described the finding as a potential “game-changer” for dentistry. “This is an industry mover that introduces keratin into our daily oral care products, not just for cleaning but for healing. It can protect and regenerate tooth enamel, offering a natural repair mechanism for minor damage,” he explained.
The study found that when keratin is combined with minerals present in saliva, it forms a protective coating that mimics the structure and function of natural enamel. This could allow micro-cracks or small imperfections in teeth to heal without the patient even noticing.
Tooth enamel—the outer protective layer of the teeth—is one of the body’s strongest substances, but once damaged, it does not regenerate on its own. This makes enamel erosion a leading cause of dental problems, from sensitivity to cavities and, in severe cases, tooth loss.
The keratin-based innovation could therefore revolutionize dental care by providing a non-invasive solution to enamel loss, potentially reducing the need for costly treatments such as fillings, crowns, or implants.
Experts suggest that, if commercialized, keratin-infused toothpaste could become a daily-use product that not only cleans teeth but also repairs them in the process. This dual action could greatly enhance oral hygiene practices worldwide.
While the findings are promising, researchers emphasized that further trials and safety testing are required before keratin-based toothpaste becomes widely available in the market. Nevertheless, dental professionals are optimistic that this breakthrough could transform the way oral health is maintained in the future.
For now, the discovery highlights the untapped potential of naturally occurring proteins in medicine and consumer health products. As Dr. Elsharkawy noted, “This is not just about preventing tooth decay—it’s about enabling your body to heal itself.”
