IF you were trying to come up with a great new product to strengthen teeth and prevent decay, you probably wouldn't start with sugar.
But that's exactly what some scientists in Brazil have done.
The team from the Bauru School of Dentistry at the University of Sao Paulo have developed an artificial saliva using a lab-modified sugarcane protein called CANECPI-5 (okay, so it's not exactly sugar...).
CANECPI-5 binds directly to tooth enamel, creating a protective layer over teeth and helping to defend enamel from acids found in drinks like juice and alcohol, as well as acids from the stomach.
Testing showed that the artificial saliva reduced bacterial activity and slowed tooth demineralisation, the process by which teeth lose calcium and phosphate, making them more susceptible to cavities.
It has been trialled in a number of forms, including a gel and mouthwash, and appears to work best when combined with fluoride and xylitol.
The product was developed to help people with head and neck cancer, who often experience severe cavities due to the destruction of salivary glands after radiation therapy.
"Artificial saliva improves the sensation of dry mouth and sores," explained project lead Professor Marilia Afonso Rabelo Buzalaf, adding that it helps with oral discomfort and also combats bacteria.
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