An engineered peptide–polymer conjugate mimics statherin to block dental calculus formation while preserving oral microbiota

Dental plaque accumulates calcium and phosphorus ions from saliva and gradually mineralizes into calculus, a primary etiological factor of periodontal disease. The complex oral environment limits the efficacy of conventional antibacterial and anticalculus agents in preventing calculus formation. Inspired by statherin's mineral-binding properties, a peptide-polymer conjugate SN_A6-PEG-TCS (DPT) was synthesized comprising a mineral-binding peptide (SN_A6), antifouling polyethylene glycol (PEG) and antibacterial triclosan (TCS). DPT exhibits high water solubility and eradicates 88.71% of plaque while simultaneously inhibiting plaque formation and spontaneous precipitation of calcium/phosphorus ions. Additionally, DPT selectively binds to the enamel surface, forming a protective coating that blocks proteins, bacteria, and ionic deposition. Topical DPT application significantly reduces <i>in vivo</i> plaque formation while preserving oral microbiota homeostasis and causing no mucosal damage. This anticalculus mouthwash strategy offers a promising approach for clinical calculus prevention.