New scientific research has found that microbes found in seaweed are more effective fighting tooth decay than any branded toothpastes.
A team of scientists and dentists in Newcastle are now developing a new product using a marine microbe that will protect dentures, teeth and gums from bacteria in the mouth.
The researchers at Newcastle University found out about the dental benefits of the Bacillus licheniformis on seaweed while they were researching the purpose of cleaning the hulls of ships.
During a presentation at the Society for Applied Microbiology Summer conference they explained how they realised the potential of the microbe in a range of medical environments – including teeth cleaning.
Although effective, toothpastes can still not reach many areas of the mouth, leaving them open to bacteria that can erode the enamel of teeth leading to fillings.
Dr Nicholas Jakubovics of Newcastle University’s School of Dental Sciences has said that he believes that products made using the enzyme will be able to offer longer and more effective protection.
Dr Jakubovics 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.
‘Work in a test tube has shown that this enzyme can cut through the plaque or layer of bacteria and we want to harness this power into a paste, mouthwash or denture cleaning solution.’
The next step for the team is to develop and test the products including the microbes. They are planning to do this in partnership with dental professionals.