Inflammation of the tissues around a dental implant is a dangerous sign that the body could be rejecting it. Left unchecked, the inflammation can turn into infection and destroy tissues and jaw bone. To aid with early detection of inflammation, a research team from the University of Würzburg is designing a special kind of chewing gum that could indicate whether or not inflammation is present.
The Dangers of Inflammation
When a person receives a dental implant to replace a missing or diseased tooth, he or she is likely to adapt to the implant with no issues. However, 6-15 percent of dental implant patients experience some inflammation around the implant site in the following years after receiving it. The inflammation may not be immediately obvious, and by the time the patient notices the soreness or redness, the deterioration of bone and soft tissue may have already begun.
Early Detection Efforts
To ensure the long-term success of dental implants for this 6-15 percent of patients, researchers have been looking at various early-detection methods for inflammation in the mouth. At the Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, located in Bavaria, Germany, one group of pharmaceutical researchers may be getting close to a solution. Their tool of choice is a special stick of gum.
How the Gum Works
According to the research team, the patient would begin chewing the gum to test the state of their mouth. If the gum detects the markers of inflammation in the oral cavity, it would react and release a bitter taste, notifying the patient of the problem. The bitter taste serves as a signal to the patient that it’s time to pay a visit to the dentist and have him or her check for inflammation at the implant site or elsewhere in the mouth.
Future Release of the Chewing Gum
That’s the theoretical version of the project. In practise, the gum has proven tricky to design. The team had to create the gum with a special ingredient, which would be broken down within five minutes by any protein-degrading enzymes that are present due to inflammation. The team claims to be close to success, having tested the gum with patient saliva at Merli Dental Clinic in Rimini. In a few years, the gum should be on the market.
Training for Dentists in Asia
Staying up to date with the latest technology and techniques in general or cosmetic dentistry can be difficult, especially when you’re busy with patients and with your personal life. If you need a refresher course on some aspects of cosmetic dentistry, or if you’re interested in perfecting your use of methods like porcelain veneers or Invisalign, check the list of courses offered by the Aesthetics and Digital Dental Academy (ADDA). These hands-on courses, taught by skilled industry leaders, can help you stay fresh and informed so you can provide your patients with the best quality care.
Source: Science Daily, 16 Aug 2017
