Dental Medicine Has Evolved, but So Has the Bacteria It Aims to Fight

Researchers have made great strides in discovering how bacteria combat fluoride on the molecular level. Beverly Hills Periodontist Dr. Alex Farnoosh comments on the recent study.

Beverly Hills, California (June 2012) – Fluoride, a standard ingredient in mouthwash and toothpaste, is recognized as a powerful agent to combat tooth decay. Researchers at Yale University are looking closely at bacteria’s ability to actively fight against fluoride and make it less effective. A recent study found that specific molecules in bacteria have the ability to detect the increase of fluoride and activate defenses against the treatment. Beverly Hills Periodontist Dr. Alex Farnoosh (www.thetotalsmile.com) comments, “Fluoride is one of the most simple and effective tools that dentists have to combat tooth decay and safeguard against more advanced oral problems. This study reveals important information that can only help to make treatments more capable of fighting off bacteria in the future.”

The study, published in the December 2011 online issue of Science, found that RNA segments called “riboswitches” have the ability to sense an increase of fluoride. In fact, their sole purpose is to detect and counteract fluoride. By examining riboswitches in various other species and organisms, the team determined that these riboswitches are part of the evolution of bacteria and have been in action for thousands of years. “We have come a long way in advancing tactics and techniques to preserve oral health,” says Dr. Alex Farnoosh, “and the study highlights how bacteria have also advanced. This study is important in that it can lead to more effective treatments to eliminate the bacteria in the mouth entirely.”

Researchers are now looking at ways to manipulate these specific riboswitches to counteract their effectiveness. Since humans lack these fluoride riboswitches that are bacteria’s weapons, the current conclusion is that the bacteria may be best combated with drugs.

As a leading periodontist in Beverly Hills, Dr. Alex Farnoosh is internationally sought out for his advancements in specialized cosmetic procedures. Developing a revolutionary lip lowering treatment to fix gummy smiles, Dr. Farnoosh is committed to the latest and most advanced procedures in inpatient care.

Find out how Dr. Farnoosh provides excellent gum treatment as part of his patients’ smile makeovers when you schedule an appointment online or call (310) 928-1796 to set up a consultation.
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