Early results show that the nanoparticles disperse well and are compatible with the commercially available adhesive resin that the scientists used in their test. Additionally, the new adhesive resin exhibits active on-demand antibacterial activity when irradiated with visible light, and passive on-contact antibacterial effects, even in a dark setting. This dual capability could enable a dentist to use light to improve the adhesive’s antimicrobial activity before filling the cavity. Afterward, the adhesive would serve as a long-term, contact-based antibacterial barrier.