Needing a tooth replaced, Robert P Crease discovers just how much materials science there is in dentistry

Dental work Fitting false teeth, bridges and crowns requires an empirical understanding of how ceramics, metals and other materials interact. (Courtesy: Shutterstock/Ihnatovich Maryia)" title="Click to open image in popup" href="https://physicsworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2026-09-cp-bobs-teeth-2570985405-shutterstock-ihnatovich-maryia.jpg"> Dental work Fitting false teeth, bridges and crowns requires an empirical understanding of how ceramics, metals and other materials interact. (Courtesy: Shutterstock/Ihnatovich Maryia)

My dentist, Dr Albora, told me I needed a new tooth. He made me bite down on a U-shaped tray filled with polyether, an elastomeric material that’s been used in dentistry for decades. I tried not to gag while the gooey stuff set. Albora then waggled it off and sent the imprint to a company on Long Island that makes false teeth.…