Kicker: Woolly whites

Editor's note: The following text is a transcript of a podcast story. To listen to the story, click on the arrow beneath the headline above.

NICK EICHER, HOST: From the science files: toothbrush, meet hairbrush!

Turns out a protein in hair and wool could be good for your teeth.

Scientists at King’s College London say the protein keratin may protect enamel and stop cavities.

Dr. Sherif Elsharkawy

ELSHARKAWAY: Currently enamel once it’s gone cannot regenderate itself. It’s gone forever.

His team turned to keratin from sheep’s wool, feathers, even hooves. You mix it with saliva, and it forms a protective layer mimicking natural enamel.

So Keratin toothpaste, coming to a bathroom near you in a couple years. Minty fresh, sustainable, no split ends.

It’s The World and Everything in It.

WORLD Radio transcripts are created on a rush deadline. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of WORLD Radio programming is the audio record.