Nano Dentistry

Teeth polished with Nano Dentistry Nanoparticles(right) compared with the surface of non-treated teeth(left).

Nanodentistry will improve the oral health of future generations by employing nanomaterials, biotechnology, tissue engineering, and dental nanorobots. For example, recent research has shown that, using nano-technology, teeth can be made too slick for bacteria stick to. The method employs a polishing technique used in the semiconductor industry. The bacteria that cause decay has difficulty sticking to the surface of teeth polished with nanoparticles, and can easily be removed (as shown above).

Other new nanodental treatment opportunities may include:

Local Anesthesia:

One of the most common and unpopular procedures in dentistry is the injection of local anesthetic. Instead micron-sized dental nanorobots can journey painlessly straight to nerves in a patients tooth, where they would shut down all sensitivity in any particular tooth that may require treatment, on command. This system potentially would provide amazing levels of control with the dentist able to press an icon for the desired tooth on a handheld controller display, and the selected tooth immediately numbs.

After the dental work has been completed the dentist can use his controller to order the nanorobots to restore all sensation to the tooth and to exit the patients mouth.

Nanorobotic Tooth Repair:

It should be possible for nanorobots to manufacture and install whole replacement teeth, including both the mineral and cellular components.

Fillings:

Similar techniques will replace the use of fillings, crowns, etc.

Nanodentistry Cure for Hypersensitivity:

Dental nanorobots could travel to, and control the tubules that cause hypersensitivity, providing patients with a quick and permanent cure.

Orthodontic Nanorobots:

Orthodontic nanorobots could directly manipulate the tissues that form our teeth and mouths, allowing rapid painless tooth straightening, rotating, and vertical repositioning in minutes to hours. This would replace the need for braces that require months or years to work.

Dental Durability and Cosmetics:

Tooth durability and appearance may be improved by replacing enamel layers with artificial materials, which may be stronger and whiter than a patient's natural enamel.

Nanorobotic Toothpastes and Mouth-washes:

Nanorobotic toothpaste and mouthwashes could scan the surface of teeth, removing food and plaque and turning them into harmless and odorless vapors.