Developing new hydrogels to repair damaged teeth
Official title: Blending Dentin to Dentin: Biometric Hydrogels for Dentin Tissue Engineering
Funded at Midwestern University · NIH-10795693 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new gel-like materials that can stick better to the part of your teeth under the enamel, which could help make dental repairs last longer and look nicer for everyone dealing with tooth decay.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Midwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Downers Grove, United States) |
| Project start | September 7, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $421,800 |
| NIH project number | 1R15DE032836-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10795693 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who have experienced dental caries and require restorative dental procedures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have dental caries or those who are not seeking dental restoration treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating innovative hydrogels that can effectively bond with dentin, the tissue beneath the enamel of teeth, to improve dental restoration techniques. By utilizing advanced biomaterials, the project aims to enhance the repair of teeth affected by dental caries, a common condition that impacts millions globally. The approach involves studying the interactions between these hydrogels and dentin to ensure strong adhesion and functionality, ultimately leading to better dental treatments. Patients may benefit from improved dental restorations that last longer and provide better aesthetics and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and durable dental restorations for patients suffering from tooth decay.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in dental biomaterials has shown promising results in improving dental restorations, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Midwestern University
Downers Grove, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rocha de Oliveira Carrilho, Marcela — Midwestern University
- Study coordinator: Rocha de Oliveira Carrilho, Marcela
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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.