Using a new chemical to improve dental materials and prevent cavities.
Official title: Addition of a Reverse Amide to Methacrylate-Based Dental Materials to Inhibit Microbial Biofilm Formation.
Funded at East Carolina University · NIH-11037538 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new dental materials that can help stop cavities from forming under fillings, so patients can enjoy longer-lasting dental work and a lower chance of getting new cavities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Carolina University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Greenville, United States) |
| Project start | March 10, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $164,255 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DE034488-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037538 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 21 and older who have existing dental fillings and are at risk for secondary caries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have dental fillings or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing dental materials that can effectively prevent secondary caries, which are cavities that form under existing fillings. The approach involves adding a specific chemical, known as a reverse amide, to methacrylate-based dental materials to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria while preserving beneficial ones. By testing these materials in water-based solutions, the researchers aim to create a more effective barrier against biofilm formation, which is a major cause of dental decay. Patients may benefit from longer-lasting dental fillings and reduced risk of cavities.
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 outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using antimicrobial agents in dental materials, but this specific approach with reverse amides is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
East Carolina University
Greenville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Geraldeli, Saulo — East Carolina University
- Study coordinator: Geraldeli, Saulo
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.