According to the Guinness
Book of World Records 2001, gum (periodontal)
disease is the most commonly occurring disease in
humans. Severe gum disease (periodontitis) is
characterized by the bacteria-induced inflammatory
destruction of tooth-supporting tissues and alveolar
bone. Periodontitis remains the most common cause of
tooth loss in adults worldwide. Emerging scientific
evidence shows that the effects of gum disease are
not limited to the mouth and it is also associated
with cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes
mellitus, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and lung
infections. It is believed that gum disease is one
of the most important global oral health burdens.
PI's previous studies funded by
RGC indicate that gum tissues serve not only as a
physical barrier protecting teeth, but also more
dynamically as a biological barrier keeping harmful
oral microbes under control by producing various
forms of ‘natural antibiotics' (e.g. human
ß-defensins, hBDs) and other molecules related to
the natural immunity of the gums. An ongoing
pioneering study, funded by the National Institutes
of Health, US, which the PI is currently performing
in collaboration with colleagues from the US and UK,
will enrich this story.
Severe gum disease
Gum disease controlled after
treatment
|