laser beams
US researchers said that lasers, which are used to restore damaged parts of the teeth, may one day be used to avoid the treatment of the roots. In the framework of the new study, the lasers triggered a series of changes that led to the formation of a new layer of dentin, which is located under the layer of enamel, in tests conducted on animals. The results, which were published in the journal Science Transitional Medicine, showed activity in stem cells in the dental pulp.
The Harvard research team used a drill to remove part of the tooth in mice and rats. A single dose of laser treatment on the damaged tooth produced a partial layer of dentin after 12 weeks.
It''s interesting, experts said, but it has a long way to go in practice.
This layer does not match perfectly with natural dentin, but the researchers say that treatment in this way will be easier in human teeth, which will be larger.
Scientists were unable to produce a new layer of hard enamel that protects the teeth from damage. But research team member Praveen Arani said the research may have a role in avoiding root canal treatment - the painful process patients fear, which involves removing a tooth''s nerve and blood vessels. Arani said lasers might be a better option.
