A new technology invented by a group of researcher’s at King’s College London could change the face of modern dentistry. By applying a low frequency current of electrical energy to a tooth that is damaged by a cavity, otherwise known as a dental caries, along with the delivery of the important tooth-strengthening minerals found in saliva, scientists believe they can rebuild a tooth, without the painful, invasive drilling process that is so often necessitated by a cavity. The technology, referred to in its infant stage as “electrically accelerated and enhanced remineralization,” or EAER, is still in its testing phase, but King’s College London’s group of dedicated researchers hope to have the revolutionary tech into dentists’ offices around the world within the next three years.

Save Patients from Discomfort, Needless Spending
A recent study from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research shows that 92% of adults have at least one cavity, putting the incidence of dental caries far above other common conditions, such as toothaches and mouth sores. That being said, treatment for dental caries is one of the biggest contributors to the incredible amounts of money Americans are pumping into dental healthcare each and every year. According to the most recently available statistics, we’re shelling out upwards of $100 billion annually.

As much as the EAER technology could be used to cut down on the amount of discomfort caused during a cavity treatment, the same technology could likely be a more cost-effective way to get the job done, putting more money back into rapidly emptying American pockets. That, perhaps more than the fact that people can stop fearing having to visit the dentist to fix their caries, might be the biggest benefit of this new technology.