Silver Lining Research Paper

The ‘Silver Lining’ to Tooth Decay

Tooth decay remains a thriving problem, to which an exemplary solution is yet to be discovered. Dr. Carla Meledandri and Dr. Don Schwass are in the works of developing what appears to be the ‘silver lining’ in the issue of tooth decay. Schwass’s envisioned a better approach to treating tooth decay, Meledandri’s expertise in the chemistry of nanoparticles bring that vision to life, giving way to a more promising future for teeth fillings. The pair proposes the concept of nanoparticles of silver (Ag) in miniscule concentrations display properties of more effective anti-bacterial effects relative to the current process of treating tooth decay. Schwass expresses his quest for the perfect solution was driven by

Robyn Williams poses a question; “does it remain antibacterial indefinitely?” to which Schwass explains that to make a statement regarding the longevity of the nanoparticles, further research would be required, by performing clinical trials. In theory, it is anticipated that the silver would hold up due to their binding traits with hard organic configuration. The use of silver for dental treatment is not new, the difference would be that silver was being used in the form of silver diamine fluoride. The treatment is several thousand times more antimicrobial relative to the silver diamine fluoride product, however there is no guarantee that this will be a once only process for every patient or every situation. Our scientists are pleased to ease concern surrounding cost, as the nanoparticles required are in such marginal concentrations the cost averages to about eight cents per ten millilitres of product. Convinced that this is the ultimate solution? It appears Dr. Robyn Williams was, at which time Schwass intervened to explain, the process isn’t that

Just as, seemingly, every child interprets visiting the dentist as a daunting event. The section where Schwass spoke to the invasiveness of current filling methods, in terms of the drilling and destruction, triggered some anxiety as I reminisced about all the fillings I have experienced. The idea of the use of nanoparticles being used to treat dental caries in an essentially less invasive manner, intrigued me as I know I would opt for any less invasive treatment. Having a more effective treatment means less trips to the dentists, and less drilling and filling for me, which is always a