Ingredient from hair strengthens teeth, scientists say

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Scientists at King’s College London have discovered that keratin, a protein found in hair, skin and wool, can repair tooth enamel and stop the early stages of decay. They discovered that keratin produces a protective coating that mimics the structure and function of natural enamel when it comes into contact with minerals in saliva. The treatment could be delivered through a toothpaste for daily use or as a professionally applied gel, similar to nail varnish, for more targeted repair. The team is already exploring pathways for clinical application and believes that keratin-based enamel regeneration could be made available to the public within the next two to three years.