Penn Dental Medicine Researcher Designs Innovative Implant
Geelsu Hwang, PhD, from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia, has designed a new type of implant that provides antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit biofilm proliferation. With a background in engineering, Hwang addresses the lack of seal between implant and gum, a common cause of peri-implant infection. The new implant utilizes nanoparticles infused into the crown, such as barium titanate, to repel bacteria. Additionally, LED lights in the base of the crown emit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory wavelengths, powered by piezoelectric material. Hwang’s research, supported by a 5-year grant from the National Institutes of Health, involves testing the implant on laboratory cultures of human gingival tissue and mini pigs before human trials. This innovative technology could extend beyond dental implants to applications like joint replacements. Click here to read more.