New research has looked in detail at how the mouth responds to oral infections. The researchers created a three-dimensional model to simulate the impact oral infections have on the mouth. Moreover, they were particularly interested in how the model could aid research into improving treatment outcomes for those wearing dentures over a long-term period.
Recent research has yielded the creation of a three-dimensional model of the oral mucosa which can be used to test its response to various bacterial infections [1].
The model can be used in multiple ways, which could aid scientists in tailoring treatments for various oral health conditions.
One example of this is the study of dentures. There is currently minimal research into how dentures impact the lining of the mouth of patients.
What is the oral mucosa?
The oral mucosa is an important area. It refers to the lining inside the mouth – including both the cheeks and lips.
Having the lining of our cheeks and lips help to protect our face, skull, and our teeth and gums. It provides an important layer of safety.
The Model
The research was conducted by a team from the University of Plymouth in the United Kingdom. Their findings have been published in the Journal of Tissue Engineering [1].
The model is formed from a collagen hydrogel containing cell type that is commonly found in the human body [1].
To make the three-dimensional model, the research team were able to use the cell type to closely replicate a typical oral mucosa. This allowed the study to be as life-like as possible.
The researchers sought to see how the model would respond to a range of infections. For example, these included Candida Albicans and Staphylococcus Aureus [1].
The model was put through a series of tests, in which the researchers were able to respond to the aforementioned pathogens [1]. When exposed to the pathogens, the researchers monitored the events that followed.
Interestingly, they found that the model behaved in a similar way to the results seen in real-life studies. The pathogens caused inflammation and led to tissue invasion [1].
When these pathogens are combined, the researchers pointed out that this could contribute to the severity of the condition. As before, the model reacted in a similar way to the results of studies featuring real-life participants [1].
Overall, the results replicated real-life situations. This reaction and result suggested that the model could be used for a range of oral health purposes in the future.
Impact on dentures
There are many ways that this model can help. One of the key areas that the researchers were focusing on was how the oral mucosa responds to long-term denture wear.
Dentures are a particularly important area of consideration. This is because research suggests up to 15% of those visiting dental practices in England have either partial or complete dentures [2]. This is expected to grow further in the next few years.
While researchers are well aware of dentures and their impact on oral health, there is little research or knowledge on how wearing them impacts the lining of the mouth of those who wear them. Therefore, this model should be helpful.
The research team are hoping to expand their study further through the use of lab-created models. They hope that this will assist with looking at the long-term impact of dentures.
Moreover, other applications include using the model to aid research into digestive system conditions, including Crohn’s disease.
Author Comments
The research team were pleased with the model and its impact on the study into dentures. There are certainly many directions to take this research in.
Dr. Vehid Saluhg was the lead author of the research. He said that developing three-dimensional models “is a critical element of our dental research”, which “mimics” specific tissues [3].
Saluhg said that the three-dimensional model acts as a “recreation of the oral cavity” that can be used for the “testing of oral healthcare products or modelling oral cancer invasion” in the future [3].
Looking ahead to the future, the model is already being expanded through an ongoing project, with the aim of it assisting with other conditions, including physical health.
Overall, these are useful findings. The model should help researchers to analyze oral conditions in more detail, and attempt to find effective treatments for not just oral health conditions, but physical health too.
Thinking points…
1) A large part of this research was focused on dentures. Dentures are useful, but it is best to avoid them wherever possible! One of the main causes of needing dentures is poor oral health. Therefore, remember to look after your teeth and attend regular dental check-ups – as these will ensure that any problems can be picked up on by your dentist. We recommend booking an appointment now!
2) Do you wear dentures, or do you know anyone that does? If so, this article should be of particular interest! This article shows that while dentures have been around for a while, research into improvements is ongoing. If you do know anyone that wears dentures, we recommend sharing this article with them now!
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.
Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign[TM]! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.
We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!
References
[1] Gould, S. J., Foey, A. D., & Salih, V. M. (2023). An organotypic oral mucosal infection model to study host-pathogen interactions. Journal of Tissue Engineering. 14. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/20417314231197310.
[2] Dentistry.co.uk. (2023). Researchers to explore long-term impact of wearing dentures. Available: https://dentistry.co.uk/2023/09/01/researchers-to-explore-long-term-impact-of-wearing-dentures/. Last accessed: 21st March 2024.
[3] Williams, A. (2024). Laboratory model enables researchers to explore the mouth’s response to oral disease. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-03-laboratory-enables-explore-mouth-response.html. Last accessed: 21st March 2024.
