IISc's Magnetic Nanobots Offer Durable Relief from Tooth Sensitivity: Research Shows

“We didn't want to create a slightly better version of what's already out there,” said Shanmukh Peddi, lead author and postdoctoral researcher at IISc’s Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE), and co-founder of Theranautilus. “We wanted a technology that solves a real problem in a way that no one's attempted before.”

The CalBots, each about 400 nanometers in size, are coated with a proprietary calcium silicate-based bioceramic cement. When guided by an external magnetic field, they penetrate deep into the dentinal tubules—up to 300–500 micrometers—and form cement-like plugs that mimic natural tooth structure. In lab tests using extracted human teeth, the bots successfully sealed the exposed dentin in just 20 minutes.

The team then conducted animal trials, where mice with induced tooth sensitivity avoided cold water. After treatment with CalBots, they resumed drinking cold water, indicating “100% behavioral recovery,” Peddi said.

Composed entirely of GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) materials, CalBots passed toxicity tests in mice without adverse effects.

Reference: Shanmukh Peddi et al, Directed Self-Assembly of Magnetic Bioceramic Deep Inside Dentinal Tubules May Alleviate Dental Hypersensitivity, Advanced Science (2025). DOI: 10.1002/advs.202507664