A new drug therapy may change the way millions of people visit the dentist. An Alzheimer’s drug was able to fill cavities without the need of visiting a dentist.
Researchers at King’s College in London, UK found that they could manipulate cells within teeth in order to build stronger teeth. Basically, King’s College researchers discovered that by inserting a drug inside a cavity the drug will activate stem cells filling in the cavity. The drug? Tidesglusib – a therapy that is currently undergoing clinical trials to treat Alzheimer’s disease.
The study was published in Scientific Reports, Victor C. M. Neves and his team of researchers explained that they see this drug can be a cost-effective treatment for cavities and tooth decay.
“This simple, rapid natural tooth repair process could thus potentially provide a new approach to clinical tooth restoration,” researchers explained in their study.
What are Cavities?
With more than 3 million cases in the US every year, dental cavities are permanent damage to parts of the teeth. Essentially, a cavity is a tiny hole caused by bacteria, sugar drinks or bad hygiene habits. Depending on the size of the cavity. Dentists treat cavities with fluoride treatments, fillings, and even crowns. With that being said, a cavity can be so bad that dentists may be forced to remove the tooth.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
While the study has revealed a possible alternative to the dentist’s office, the research would have never started if it were not for scientists searching for a cure to Alzheimer’s. In the US there are 3 million cases of Alzheimer’s. The disease begins when connections in the brain start to die and in turn destroying memories and mental functions.
At this point in time there is no cure to Alzheimer’s but, researchers have found a connection between a popular prostate cancer treatment and Alzheimer’s disease. After researcher examined thousands of health records, scientists discovered prostate cancer patients who received testosterone-lowering drugs were actually more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease.