In a remarkable step forward for dental care, scientists from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Bengaluru-based startup Theranautilus have unveiled CalBots: microscopic magnetic nanobots capable of delivering long-term relief from tooth sensitivity. This new approach could potentially eliminate the need for repetitive treatments like desensitizing toothpastes.
CalBots are 400-nanometer-sized magnetic particles engineered to carry a specialized calcium silicate-based bioceramic cement. These nanobots are activated and guided using an external magnetic field, enabling them to travel into the dentinal tubules — microscopic channels beneath the enamel that transmit pain signals to the nerves.
Once inside, the bots self-assemble into stable, cement-like plugs that form a natural seal. This mimics the structure of healthy dentine, effectively blocking sensitivity triggers like cold, hot, or sweet substances. Unlike over-the-counter toothpastes that provide temporary relief, CalBots aim to target and seal the root cause in a single, clinic-based session.
Extensive lab testing was carried out on extracted human teeth, where CalBots successfully penetrated 300–500 micrometers deep into exposed dentine when activated under a magnetic field for 20 minutes. High-resolution imaging confirmed the bots formed durable plugs within the tubules.
“After we treated the sensitive mice with our CalBot solution, they started drinking cold water again – the treatment worked like a charm. We saw 100% behavioural recovery. That was a big moment for us,”Shanmukh Peddi, first author of the study and co-founder of Theranautilus.
Importantly, the materials used in the bots are classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). Toxicity assessments in mice revealed no adverse effects, further reinforcing their clinical potential.
Dental hypersensitivity affects nearly one in four people worldwide.
Tooth sensitivity is a widespread issue, impacting up to 25% of people worldwide. It occurs when enamel erosion or gum recession exposes the dentine layer, allowing external stimuli to reach sensitive nerve endings through tubules. Current products like sensitivity toothpastes or fluoride varnishes offer only surface-level relief and require frequent application.
CalBots stand out by offering a long-lasting, deep-penetrating fix, tackling the issue at its anatomical core.
This innovation not only addresses a common dental complaint but also showcases the expanding role of nanorobotics in healthcare. According to Professor Ambarish Ghosh, a senior researcher at IISc and co-founder of Theranautilus, CalBots could signal the start of a new era in regenerative dental treatments.
Published in the journal Advanced Science, the project has drawn attention for echoing legendary physicist Richard Feynman’s vision of “tiny mechanical surgeons.” The technology's potential applications may extend far beyond sensitivity treatment possibly even into tissue regeneration and precision drug delivery.
CalBots represent a game-changing innovation in dental care — combining precision engineering, biocompatibility, and nanotechnology to offer a long-lasting solution to tooth sensitivity. As clinical trials advance, experts suggest that this Indian-developed technology may soon become a standard part of dental practices worldwide.
(Rh/Eth/VK/MSM/SE)