Source: Iranian Nanotechnology Initiative (INI)

Iranian scientists have recently registered the invention of silver nanoparticle-coated gutta-percha, which can be used as an alternative to the existing tooth-filling agents.

The new composite is reported to have anti-wear, antibacterial and antifungal properties and therefore can be used in treating the tooth's root conditions.

"Following the detection of the antibacterial effects of the newly introduced silver nano-particles, gutta-percha was coated with a thin layer of the substance for the first time in the world," Seyed Omid Dianat, the inventor of the new tooth-filling agent told Iranian Nanotechnology initiatives website.

Silver nanoparticle-coated gutta-percha has been reported to be effective in tackling Staphylococcus aureus, E-coli, enterococcus faecalis and candida albicans.