Mouth Bacteria Uncovered

A new technique for analyzing bacterial groups has been discovered. This method uses computational strategies to uncover the details of microbial communities living in the human mouth. The technique could allow scientists and researchers to resolve indistinguishable bacteria questions from years of research.

An important step in understanding the role of oral bacteria in health and disease is to discover how many different kinds live in the mouths of healthy people, and exactly where in the mouth they normally live. Using a novel computational method called oligotyping, developed by MBL Assistant Research Scientist A. Murat Eren, scientists analyzed gene sequence data from nine sites in the oral cavity. The data was provided by The Human Microbiome Project (HMP), an effort of the National Institutes of Health that produced a census of bacterial populations from 18 body sites in more than 200 healthy individuals. 

— Marine Biological Laboratory

Protein vs. Periodontal Disorders

Researchers have discovered links between periodontal disorders and rheumatoid arthritis. These findings have also contributed to supporting evidence that protein has a strong impact on dental infections by oral pathogens. The early detection of periodontal disorders can be treated to offset future health problems. Learn more about the research to improve the treatment of periodontitis.

Periodontal, or gum, disease is one of the most common infectious diseases. In its more severe forms, such as periodontitis, it causes loss of the bone that supports the teeth. Approximately 65 million adults in the United States are affected by some form of the disease. PG is the major causative agent of periodontitis, and it may also be involved in the development of systemic diseases such as atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

— Forsyth Institute

Can Low Lasers Promote the Growth of New Tissues?

Lasers are common in many fields of health but can they really be useful for coaxing teeth into repairs? These researchers believe so. This article highlights recent studies developed by researchers. They have discovered that low level lasers can be used to promote new tissue growth and spark new cell development in the human body. Learn more in the article below.

Until a molecule comes along and activates it, TGF-β1 exists in a standby mode. What the team discovered is a domino effect that begins when the laser light induces reactive oxygen species (ROS), and these in turn activate the TGF-β1 complex, which then triggers the stem cells to differentiate into dentin. ROS are chemically active oxygen-containing molecules that play a key role in many cell functions. The discovery is significant because it confirms scientifically what has always been believed from reported anecdotes about low-level light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation.

— Researchers Use Lasers to Coax Teeth