Whole new meaning to brushing your teeth... toothpaste made from human HAIR can halt decay

Scientists believe they have found a new weapon to fight tooth decay.

The researchers discovered that toothpaste made from human hair can repair damaged teeth better than fluoride-based products – and even completely halt the early stages of decay.

They hope the treatments, made using keratin extracted from hair or wool, could be applied either in the form of a toothpaste or as a nail varnish-like gel for more targeted repairs.

And the good news is that it could be available in as little as two to three years.

Senior author Dr Sherif Elsharkawy, from King's College London, said: 'With further development and the right industry partnerships, we may soon be growing stronger, healthier smiles from something as simple as a haircut.'

Teeth are covered in a hard outer layer called enamel which protects the sensitive inner layers from damage.

Although it is the hardest substance in the human body – even stronger than your bones – acidic foods and drinks, and poor dental hygiene can wear enamel away.

This can lead to tooth sensitivity, pain and even tooth loss in extreme cases.

'Enamel does not regenerate, once it is lost, it's gone for ever,' said Dr Elsharkawy. Toothpastes with high levels of fluoride can help slow down this process, but they cannot stop it. In the paper, published in Advanced Healthcare Materials, Dr Elsharkawy says keratin from hair and wool can permanently restore tooth strength.

Keratin is a fibrous protein naturally produced by our bodies that makes up our hair, nails and the outer layer of our skin. The researchers found that, when keratin is applied to teeth, it forms a dense mineral layer which mimics the structure and function of enamel.

Waste hair from hairdressers or excess wool from farms could be recycled into toothpaste, meaning dentists could offer a more eco-friendly option that is more effective than current treatments.

Author Sara Gamea, a PhD candidate at King's College, told the Daily Mail: 'Because hair is abundant, renewable and often discarded as waste, it provides a sustainable and cost-effective source.'