Oral Care

Microorganisms play a significant role in two major dental conditions; dental caries and periodontal disease. Dental caries is one of the most widespread health problems of the developed world, with estimates that over half of the UK and US populations have one or more decayed or unsound teeth. Industrialised countries spend 5-10% of their national public health resources on dental care each year and, with diets increasingly rich in sugar, the burden of oral disease is growing in many developing countries.

Dental plaque, a biofilm on the surface of the teeth, is an important etiological factor in both dental caries and periodontal diseases (gum health). Plaque development commences with the adhesion of microorganisms to acquired salivary pellicle on the enamel surface. This accumulation of microorganisms, such as Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, subjects the teeth and gum tissues to high concentrations of bacterial enzymes and metabolites which initiate the start of gradual deterioration of tooth enamel and gum health.

The topical application of antimicrobials in the control of oral disease has an established history with compounds such as triclosan, chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride being used to inhibit the formation of plaque. By screening for novel antimicrobial compounds, and combinations of compounds, the Syntopix technology and in-house expertise offers an opportunity to improve the clinical efficacy of oral healthcare products with scientifically sound claims.

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