# Bacteria-Fighting Prosthetic Teeth This Tough 3D-Printed Tooth is Made with Antimicrobial Plastic By Cadhla Gray | Published 2015-11-02 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/prosthetic-teeth References: [slashgear](http://www.slashgear.com/researchers-3d-print-bacteria-killing-teeth-02412583/) & [newscientist](https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn28353-3d-printed-teeth-to-keep-your-mouth-free-of-bacteria/) Scientists developed and created prosthetic teeth that can kill bacteria upon contact without posing any issues to the human. Using a 3D-printer, the teeth were made with a type of antimicrobial plastic that is positively charged to kill any negatively charged bacteria. Many prosthetic teeth are vulnerable to damage and bacteria, making this scientific development a breakthrough in dentistry. The bacteria-fighting teeth will be more durable and longer-lasting than regular false teeth, saving people time and money. This material could also be used in things like [braces or retainers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mouthio) in the future, preventing damage and prolonging wear of the expensive dental gear. The fact that these dental implants can be [3D-printed](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3dprinting-resin) also means they can be made quickly, easily and inexpensively. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.1/10 - Popularity: 43% | Activity: 42% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Science](https://www.trendhunter.com/science) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Antibacterial Prosthetics:** The use of antimicrobial materials in prosthetics presents an opportunity for the development of safer and more durable products. - **3D Printing in Dentistry:** The use of 3D printing in the creation of prosthetic teeth opens up opportunities for faster production and lower costs. - **Antimicrobial Medical Devices:** Applying antimicrobial materials to other medical devices such as braces or retainers could reduce the risk of infection and improve overall health outcomes. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Dentistry:** Antibacterial prosthetics could revolutionize the dental industry by improving the durability and lifespan of dental implants and prosthetics. - **Medical Devices:** Antimicrobial materials could be applied to other medical devices to reduce the risk of infection and improve overall health outcomes for patients. - **3D Printing:** The use of 3D printing in dentistry and medical device manufacturing presents a major opportunity for companies looking to offer faster and more cost-effective solutions to customers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Microbiome-Balancing Toothpastes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/periotrap.md) - [Chewable Oral Antibiotics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/probiora-oral-care.md) - [Self-Sanitizing Toothbrushes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ultim8-smartbrush-system.md) - [Enamel-Like Dental Coatings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/synthetic-dental-coating.md) - [Ultra-Strong Dental Resins](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/desktop-health.md) - [Artificial Tooth Enamel Replacements](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/artificial-enamel.md) - [Prebiotic Toothpaste Products](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/prebiotic-toothpaste.md) - [Light Therapy Toothbrushes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/light-therapy-toothbrush.md) - [Aerospace-Grade Titanium Toothbrushes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wave-electric-toothbrush-titanium.md)