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Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), in partnership with the Bangalore-based deep-tech startup Theranautilus, have unveiled CalBots—tiny magnetic nanobots designed to address tooth sensitivity at its source. These 400-nanometre particles are built from a novel calcium silicate–based bioceramic cement and can be guided, via an external magnetic field, deep into exposed dentinal tubules—microscopic channels in tooth dentine that connect directly to nerve endings.
Once inside the tubules, CalBots self-assemble into durable, cement-like plugs that recreate the natural barrier of the tooth, effectively blocking the pathways that cause sharp sensitivity to temperature changes. In laboratory tests using human-extracted teeth, the bots sealed these tubules within 20 minutes, as confirmed by high-resolution imaging. The innovation was further validated through animal trials: mice made tooth-sensitive avoided cold water until treated with CalBots—after which they resumed drinking it, demonstrating a full behavioral recovery.
Importantly, CalBots are composed entirely of materials classified as safe, and toxicity tests in mice showed no adverse effects, underscoring their biocompatibility and clinical potential. Lead author Shanmukh Peddi, a postdoc at IISc’s Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE) and co-founder of Theranautilus, emphasizes that this isn’t just a marginal improvement—but a fresh, deeper-penetrating solution aimed precisely at the root of the problem. The broader impact of this breakthrough is being hailed as a leap forward in regenerative nanomaterials, aligning with the vision of “tiny mechanical surgeons” once imagined by physicist Richard Feynman.
