An investigation of the occlusive properties of smart polymeric particles usingquantitative image analysis of dentin microtubules

Many young adults are affected by tooth sensitivity stimulated by eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet or acidic, which impacts their life quality. Tooth sensitivity can start when the softer, inner part of the tooth called dentin becomes exposed. The dentin contains a large number of parallel microtubules that run from the outside of the tooth to the nerve in the center. When it is exposed, these microtubules can be stimulated by changes in temperature or certain foods resulting in the sharp pain. The common treatment is application of occluding agents to block the exposed microtubes. In this project, in collaboration with BTI, we propose to fabricate, optimize and characterize an ‘in vitro dentin model’ using a 3D printing process suitable for evaluation of occlusive particles made by BTI based-on smart polymers and microparticres, potentially able to occlude/penetrate into dentin microtubules to address teeth hypersensitivity.

Faculty Supervisor:

Maryam Tabrizian

Student:

Shiva Naseri

Partner:

Bioastra Technologies Inc.

Discipline:

Sector:

Other

University:

McGill University

Program: