The gel adheres to teeth, fills holes and cracks, and stimulates enamel-crystal growth in the same orientation as natural enamel, forming a durable, enamel-like layer that lasts for weeks.

A research team at the University of Nottingham has developed a dental gel that can fill cavities, repair damaged enamel, and potentially reduce the need for fillings by promoting enamel regeneration through a modified amelogenin protein.

Dentists expressed cautious optimism, noting that real-world performance, regulatory approvals, and market adoption will shape the timeline, with pathways suggesting five to ten years before widespread clinical use.

Remineralization takes about two weeks and is biodegradable, with one application potentially lasting similarly to native enamel depending on an individual’s health and habits.

The field already includes interim solutions like FDA-approved Curodont, illustrating a landscape of regenerative and remineralization therapies in dentistry.

Experts view the technology as a preventive, potentially chronic-care solution requiring patient education and ongoing management, with multiple product variants in development for broad clinical use.

Mata, a leading researcher, has launched a startup (Mintech-Bio) aiming to bring the first product to market after clinical trials in the near term.

The approach has shown effectiveness even on heavily damaged enamel with exposed dentin, suggesting potential to restore enamel structure and halt progression to fillings.