subject: Dentistry And Nanotechnology [print this page] Nanotechnology is an applied science concerning the manipulation of matter on the molecular and atomic scale levels. Current development is limited to the construction of nano-scale objects for use as materials in other technology. Material created using nanotechnology is often more precise and durable because of the certain attributes of matter at extremely microscopic levels. Studies in modern dentistry have discovered uses for these nano-sized particles for dental fillings and sealants, and could be the lead for the cration of artificial bones and teeth.
The word nano refers to the nanometer, a measurement in the scale of a billionth of a meter. Nanotechnology, or microarchitechture, commonly deals with microscopic structures a hundred nanometers and below. While it is looked forward that man can eventually build working technology such as machines and electronic equipments at this miniscule scale, problems may come up due to the various attributes of physical change as it gets smaller. Simple moving machines at the nanometer scale have been demonstrated and manifested, but man is still far away from assembling molecular sized machines. Nano-particles are being applied in a variety of industry, such as medicine, because of its several properties like the increased resistance to wear and tear, and killing bacteria and harmful agents in microscopic accuracy. However, there are concerns about the unknown consequences to the environment and human health.
Two types of methods exist for working with nanotechnology, each approaching the setbacks from a different angle. Bottom-up approach uses several processes to stimulate structures for self-assembly at the desired scale. Top-down approach constructs a structure at a scale easy to be worked at to, and in turn, creates another structure at a smaller, unreachable scale.
Man has been using nanotechnology for quite a long time without even realizing it. The process of turning iron and coal into steel, vulcanization of rubber and even just the sharpening of a razor all depend on manipulations of nano-particles. Even the most tenured dentist Memphis has is most likely a user of nanotechnology.
State of the art applications being used by any top dentist in Memphis include tooth sealants and fillers that use nano-particles to maintain strength, luster and resistance to wear and tear. Silver nano-particles inhibit the growth of bacteria. Thus, fillers and orthodontics use them naturally to impede bacteria growth in order to prevent tooth decay.
It is hoped by the association of professional and licensed dentist in Memphis that they can be able to utilize nanotechnology to reconstruct the bone that has receded over time after the tooth over it has been extracted, thus making implants an actual option. A hope for the long run is that self-replicating nano-machines could repair and rebuild damaged teeth completely.
by: Shelly Beckham
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