Adding enzymes from seaweed microbes to toothpaste and mouthwash could provide better protection against tooth decay, a team of UK scientists have said.
Researchers at Newcastle University had been studying Bacillus licheniformis to see if it could clean ships' hulls.
But the scientists now believe it could protect the areas between teeth where plaque can gather despite brushing.
Their lab tests suggest the microbe's enzyme cuts through plaque, stripping it of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
Dr Nick Jakubovics, of the university's school of dental sciences, said: "Plaque on your teeth is made up of bacteria which join together to colonise an area in a bid to push out any potential competitors.
"Traditional toothpastes work by scrubbing off the plaque containing the bacteria - but that's not always effective - which is why people who religiously clean their teeth can still develop cavities.
Decaying bacteria
"We found this enzyme can remove some of these undesirable bacteria from plaque."
Plaque is made up of lots of different decaying bacteria.
When bacterial cells die, the DNA inside them leaks out and makes a biofilm that sticks to the teeth.
Instead of removing the plaque entirely, Dr Jakubovics believes the treatment could strip away the harmful bacteria, like Streptococcus mutans,that cause tooth decay.
"Ultimately we hope to harness this power into a paste, mouthwash or denture-cleaning solution."
He said more studies are needed to show the technique works and is safe before any products could be brought to market.
He is presenting the latest findings to a meeting of the Society for Applied Microbiology, the organisation that is funding the research along with the Newcastle Healthcare Charity.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Tags:
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Latest Stories
-
Commissioner-General of Ghana Boundary Commission calls on GCAA to formally introduce himself
28 minutes -
From Mistrust to Meaning: IPR Ghana Reflects on Role of PR in 2025
29 minutes -
Registrar Andrews Boateng honoured as he retires from KNUST
32 minutes -
GNPC disburses scholarship funds for 2023 and 2024 academic years
34 minutes -
Energy Minister rallies support for enhanced efficiency at Ghana Gas
35 minutes -
UNESCO Urges Africa to embrace Quantum Technology
51 minutes -
What the Rocket Classic reveals about the state of the PGA Tour in 2025
1 hour -
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah rallies corporate Ghana for Joy Sports Invitational 2025
1 hour -
Cedi can rival dollar if Ghanaians restore trust, says BoG governor
2 hours -
Swedru police burn 10 wee ghettos; 4 arrested
2 hours -
ICU Ghana elects new youth leaders at 6th National Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference
2 hours -
Ghana to participate in maiden ANOCA School Games in Algeria
2 hours -
Ghana, Serbia to sign labour mobility agreement as bilateral ties deepen
2 hours -
Armwrestling: Glico insures Golden Arms, NHIA, NPA, others support for Africa Championship
2 hours -
The dollar is not a legal tender in Ghana, you can reject it as medium of payment – BoG Governor
2 hours