Detailed project information

The surfaces of dental elements are highly susceptible to the etching and dissolving action of acidic compounds from acidic foodstuffs and beverages, or from refluxed gastric acid (dental erosion). Under normal conditions saliva protects partially the enamel against the detrimental effects of acidic attacks by the neutralizing action of its buffer systems and by depositing a tooth pellicle, which is a lubricative film of salivary (glyco)proteins that covers the dental surfaces. The present project aims to develop a new class of compounds with protective properties that mimic and enhance those of the natural saliva components for application as protective agents in oral care products to combat the rapidly increasing problem of dental erosion.