Improving dental materials to prevent tooth decay around fillings

Microenvironmental characterization and manipulation to prevent secondary caries

NIH-funded research Oregon State University · NIH-10802985

This study is looking at new types of dental materials that can help keep your teeth healthy by preventing new cavities from forming around fillings, making them last longer and work better for you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOregon State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Corvallis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10802985 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new dental composite materials that can help prevent the recurrence of tooth decay, known as secondary caries, around existing dental restorations. By manipulating the microbial environment in the mouth, the study aims to create materials that release beneficial ions like magnesium and zinc, which can promote a healthier oral microbiome. The research involves optimizing these materials to ensure they effectively maintain a healthy pH level around dental fillings, thus reducing the risk of further decay. Patients may benefit from longer-lasting dental restorations that are less prone to failure due to caries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with existing dental restorations who are at risk for secondary caries.

Not a fit: Patients without dental restorations or those who do not have a history of dental caries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dental materials that significantly reduce the incidence of secondary caries, improving oral health and reducing the need for repeat dental procedures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using bioactive materials to alter the oral microbiome, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Corvallis, 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.