Revolutionary bioengineered tooth mimics real teeth
Tufts researchers have come up with a "smart" dental implant that connects to nerves, so it can sense things like pressure and temperature—just like your own teeth. The secret? A special layer with stem cells and proteins helps nerve tissue grow right into the implant.
Less invasive surgery and more natural experience
Instead of drilling into bone, this implant uses tiny rubber nanofibers to anchor in soft tissue. That means less surgical trauma and a lower risk of nerve damage. Plus, being able to feel what you're chewing or saying makes the whole experience way more natural.
Success in rodents after 6 weeks
The team saw success in rodents after six weeks, with the implants working just like real teeth. Next up: bigger animal trials and then humans. If all goes well, this could change how we think about artificial body parts that need to "feel."