Eurostarsprojekt, Nugel, 8320, BactInact

Purpose and goal

Our aim was to develop a system for the removal of bacterial biofilms from dental implants to eliminate peri-implantitis and thus to prepare for bone tissue regrowth around the implant. The proposed system combines a bactericidal gel with a light device to enhance the cleansing effect. Extensive testing and optimization of the system showed that the system was indeed effective in eliminating bacteria from dental implant surfaces, even if the added effect from the light source was not as great as hoped. Future commercialization of the system is anticipated following clinical testing.

Expected results and effects

The project aimed to produce a prototype that is safe and easy to use and effective against periimplantitis, and possibly enter into a phase of clinical trials by the end of the 3-years period. A prototype system was developed and bench-tested on bacteria, but has not yet proceeded to clinical testing as first anticipated. The SME partners now have a new strategy for combatting bacterial infections at the implant surface and are well positioned to further develop and commercialize this tool for surface debridement of infected dental implants.

Planned approach and implementation

The project was set up from a product development perspective, and thus was structured in a flow from engineering design, bench testing, animal studies, to clinical pilot studies. This approach was effective in determining the strengths and weaknesses of the components of the bactericidal gel / light device cleansing system, allowing us to optimize the components. Much of the success of the project can be attributed to excellent coordination and collaboration with the four partners in the project, both academic and SME, in Sweden and in Norway.