Blocking Bone Loss Caused by Gum Disease

At the University of Louisville, an important discovery has been made that could change the practice of dentistry forever. With so many awful problems being continually linked to gum disease, experts in the field are on a frenzied hunt to find a solution to the problem – the swelling, the bone loss, and the bacterial spread.

Could it be that a single enzyme holds the answers?

David Scott, PhD declares that, at the very least, the problem of gum disease could be effectively treated to reduce swelling and bone loss, by simply blocking the signaling pathway of that sole enzyme.

Known as GSK3b, the enzyme plays a big role in inflammation after gum disease, as well as several other common disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease.

Also on the list of patients who could benefit greatly from this finding are those diagnosed with Type II Diabetes and those with particular forms of cancer.

While the main course of preventative action for periodontal disease continues to be proper oral hygiene – brushing and flossing regularly – once present, it could be possible to stop the destruction of the disease by cutting the lines of communication between that area and the brain.

In particular, by inhibiting the tasks normally performed by the GSK3b enzyme, it is believed that bone loss could be prevented. The inhibitor, SB216763 is still under careful scrutiny to determine if there are any notable side-effects.

For more information on enzyme GSK3b and its role in gum disease, continue reading the full article.