2023 Volume 21 Issue 1 Pages 23-28
Our research group grasps dentin caries treatment from both "induction of decalcified dentin remineralization" and "induction of reparative dentin formation in deep-seated caries." It studies dentin remineralization/regeneration from each approach to developing a functional restorative material, thereby providing the dentin-pulp complex with self-restoration capacity. The resin monomer CMET developed by our group is a highly functional monomer capable of remineralization induction, dentin regeneration, and anti-biofilm formation, exhibiting a promising material for functional material development. Based on these findings, new bioactive coating material and universal bonding agent have been developed. Further improvement of these materials will enable caries prevention and self-repair of infected and demineralized dentin in sealed restorations, which is the ideal caries treatment. This will ultimately change caries treatment from "cutting and restorative" to "self-restorative."