Scientists Develop a Selective Toothpaste Against Gum Disease

Scientists have developed a new toothpaste that can effectively inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for periodontitis without destroying beneficial microorganisms in the oral cavity, Medical Xpress reports.

The research was conducted by German specialists from the Fraunhofer Institute in Halle in collaboration with other scientific partners, and the technology was subsequently implemented in products by the startup PerioTrap Pharmaceuticals GmbH. Periodontitis develops due to the accumulation of certain pathogenic bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, which firmly adhere to dental plaque along the gum line and trigger inflammation—initially gingivitis, and later a chronic disease of the tissues surrounding the teeth. This inflammation not only damages the gums and bone, but can also lead to serious systemic health problems: bacteria can enter the bloodstream and are associated with an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and other chronic inflammatory conditions.

Traditional antiseptics and mouthwashes do kill many microorganisms, but they do not distinguish between beneficial and harmful bacteria. After such aggressive treatment, the oral microbiome often quickly returns to an imbalanced state, as pathogenic species tend to reproduce faster than beneficial ones.

The new toothpaste is based on the active compound guanidinoethylbenzylamino-imidazopyridine acetate, which selectively suppresses pathogenic bacteria by depriving them of the ability to produce toxins, while beneficial bacteria remain alive and can help restore a healthy microbial balance.

This selective action allows the oral microbiome to gradually return to a normal state without aggressive disinfection.

The development was carried out in strict accordance with Good Laboratory Practice standards, meaning that the results of compatibility, safety, and efficacy testing were recognized by regulatory authorities. The toothpaste also contains conventional components, such as abrasives for mechanical cleaning and fluoride to prevent tooth decay.

Follow NEWS.am Medicine on Facebook and Twitter