Measuring pH levels in oral biofilms to prevent tooth decay
Official title: Development of Quantitative In Vivo Imaging of Oral Biofilm pH to Allow Prevention of Enamel Demineralization
Funded at Veravanti, INC. · NIH-10819788 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to check how acidic the germs on your teeth are, which can help dentists spot early signs of tooth decay in tricky spots, so they can help you take care of your teeth before bigger problems arise.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veravanti, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Redmond, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $309,428 |
| NIH project number | 1R43DE032985-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10819788 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk of dental caries, particularly those with poor oral hygiene or dietary habits that promote acid production.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no risk factors for dental caries or those who have already undergone extensive dental treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new method to measure the acidity of oral biofilms, which are responsible for tooth decay. By using a pH-sensitive fluorescent dye, the study aims to quickly identify areas on teeth that are at risk of demineralization due to acid produced by bacteria. This technique is designed to be more effective than current methods, allowing dentists to detect early signs of tooth decay in hard-to-reach areas. The goal is to enable timely interventions that can prevent the progression of dental caries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies for tooth decay, reducing pain and the need for invasive dental treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using fluorescence techniques for dental applications, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Veravanti, INC.
Redmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcmorrow, Gerald — Veravanti, INC.
- Study coordinator: Mcmorrow, Gerald
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.