Yonsei University Dental School Research Team Develops 'Tooth Restoration Material' with Enhanced Durability and Antibacterial Properties

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwanju] Domestic researchers have developed a new dental restorative material with enhanced antibacterial properties.

The research team led by Professor Choi Seonghwan and Dr. Mangal Uttkashi from the Department of Orthodontics at Yonsei University College of Dentistry, along with Professor Kwon Jaeseong from the Department of Dental Biomaterials Engineering, announced on the 9th that they have developed a dental restorative material with increased bacterial resistance by overcoming the limitations of existing dental cements.

To overcome the limitations of the widely used resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) for tooth damage repair, the research team created a new material by mixing a multifunctional bipolar network modifier (α-mZM). As a result, compared to conventional RMGIC, the release amounts of strontium and fluoride ions increased by 20% and 10% respectively, enhancing antibacterial properties and making it more effective in preventing tooth decay.

Indicators such as DSPP (Dentine Sialophosphoprotein) and DMP-1 (Dentine matrix protein-1), which show the extent of regeneration of damaged tooth tissue, increased by 32.5% and 245% respectively, accelerating tooth recovery.

Calcification nodules also increased by about 50% compared to existing materials, promoting remineralization of tooth components such as calcium and slowing the progression of tooth decay. Additionally, bacteria remaining on the material surface after exposure to saliva decreased by 28%. In particular, the growth of anaerobic bacteria Veillonella was suppressed, significantly enhancing antibacterial effects.

Professor Choi stated, "We confirmed that RMGIC combined with α-mZM inhibits bacterial infection and more effectively regenerates teeth damaged by cavities," adding, "We plan to continue research to enable stronger treatment of broken teeth in actual patients using this material."

The results of this study were published in the latest issue of the international journal in the field of biomaterials, Biomaterials Science (IF 7.59).