A new dental material that prevents bacteria from sticking and forming biofilms
Official title: Bacterial Adhesion Inhibition and Biofilm Disruption by Adaptive Piezoelectric Biomaterial
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10792916 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of dental filling that uses tiny particles to create a gentle electric charge, helping to keep bacteria from sticking to your dental work, which could mean healthier teeth and fewer trips to the dentist for repairs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $232,549 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DE032162-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10792916 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who require dental restorations and are at risk for secondary caries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with existing dental restorations that are not being replaced or those with no dental issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel dental composite material that can prevent the adhesion of bacteria and the formation of biofilms on dental restorations. By utilizing the unique properties of barium titanate nanoparticles, the material generates an electric potential through normal oral movements, which helps to dislodge bacteria without killing them. This approach aims to enhance the longevity of dental restorations by reducing the risk of secondary caries caused by bacterial leakage. Patients can benefit from improved dental health and reduced need for further dental interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to longer-lasting dental restorations and improved oral health for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using similar materials and approaches to inhibit bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hwang, Geelsu — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Hwang, Geelsu
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.