A new way to deliver fluoride for stronger teeth

Feasibility of novel Fluorine Non-thermal plasma for dental caries control

NIH-funded research Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr · NIH-11247629

This project explores a new plasma technology to deliver fluoride more effectively into tooth enamel to help prevent cavities.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Station, United States)
Project IDNIH-11247629 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Cavities, also known as dental caries, are a common problem caused by bacteria and acids that damage tooth enamel. While fluoride is a key defense against cavities, current methods don't always get enough fluoride deep into the tooth or keep it there long enough. This research is developing a new approach using a special type of fluorine plasma to deliver fluoride more deeply and effectively into your teeth. The goal is to make your enamel stronger and more resistant to decay.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational work is not yet recruiting patients, but future applications would likely benefit anyone prone to dental cavities.

Not a fit: Patients without dental caries or those seeking immediate treatment for existing cavities would not directly benefit from this early-stage research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this new technology could lead to more effective and longer-lasting cavity prevention treatments for patients.

How similar studies have performed: This approach is considered pioneering, as few advancements in fluoride delivery technologies have been made in recent decades, though initial lab work shows promise.

Where this research is happening

College Station, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.