New dental implants to prevent infections and improve healing
Translational Multimodal Strategy for Peri-Implant Disease Prevention
This study is testing a new kind of dental implant that uses energy from chewing to power a light therapy system, helping to prevent infections and promote healing for people with dental implants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078856 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of dental implant that can better resist infections and promote healing around the implant site. It aims to create a smart dental implant that uses energy generated from normal oral activities, like chewing, to power a light therapy system that helps prevent bacterial growth. By enhancing the interface between the implant and surrounding tissue, the goal is to reduce the risk of peri-implant diseases, which can lead to complications such as bone loss and implant failure. Patients with dental implants may benefit from this innovative approach to maintaining oral health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are considering or have received dental implants.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require dental implants or have contraindications for implant surgery may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of infections and complications associated with dental implants, leading to better long-term outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using phototherapy and antibiofilm strategies in dental applications, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- 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 below.