Dental Industry Trends Summary Apr 14-20

Can Plants Cure Your Gum Disease?

Penn Dental Medicine researchers have created a potential treatment for periodontal diseases using dasatinib, an enzyme inhibitor, and quercetin, a natural plant flavonoid. This therapy works by targeting senescent cells—damaged cells that have stopped dividing but are still active—and prevents them from causing inflammation and tissue damage. In laboratory studies, the treatment reduced inflammation markers and prevented bone loss in aging mice. These results suggest the drug is capable of renewing gum health while preserving the structural integrity. With these new findings, they are hoping to continue into early clinical trials, which will focus on the treatment’s potential as a natural therapy for periodontal disease.

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Heart-Healthy Dental Habits

Tongue scraping has long been recognized as an effective oral hygiene practice by removing plaque and build-up. However, concerns have emerged about potential heart health risks when performed improperly. Aggressive scraping can create small cuts, allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream and increase risk of cardiovascular complications. Excessive cleaning may also reduce nitric oxide levels, potentially elevating blood pressure. However, it is still recommended to perform gentle tongue scraping no more than once a day as part of a comprehensive oral care routine to effectively manage oral health.

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