Researchers have looked in detail at the mechanism behind bone loss in gum disease. Gum disease is a condition that affects many people. Researchers used various techniques to find out the behaviour of certain pathogens, and whether or not they contribute to the progression of gum disease and bone loss. The research will hopefully help dentists discover new ways of best targeting gum disease in patients.
Recent research has analyzed the mechanism behind bone loss in gum disease. Many people suffer from a form of gum disease, making any research into the topic highly relevant.
The research involves double-stranded ribonucleic acid (RNA). Double-stranded RNA is a certain type of acid that plays an important role for humans. It develops naturally.
But the researchers wanted to investigate how RNA molecules affect the immune system, and its consequent response to threats. Moreover, they then wanted to see the consequent effects this had on oral health.
Background
It has been known for a while that bacterial plaque situated in the tooth pockets is what causes gum disease. Gum disease is a very common issue. In fact, around 90% of the world’s population have some form of it [1].
Gum disease is a debilitating condition which can cause pain and irritation. If left untreated, it is possible that eventual tooth removal will need to follow. This happens as a result of bone loss. Multiple types of bacteria contribute to bone loss in gum disease [2].
Bacteria types have molecules called lipopolysaccharides within them. Lipopolysaccharides support the mouth by activating the immune system when under attack.
However, it is also linked to gum inflammation, which is a key symptom of gum disease. It is believed that this is due to lipopolysaccharides recognizing bacteria as pathogens [3].
The Research
The research was conducted by the Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. Their conclusions were published in the March issue of the Journal of Biological Chemistry [4].
The point of this research was to look into the process of lipopolysaccharides recognising the bacteria, and the eventual impact it has on the progression of gum disease and bone loss [4].
To begin with, the researchers used bone marrow cells from mice and a synthetic molecule to imitate human RNA. The researchers then exposed the bone marrow cells to the RNA [4].
Their combination led to the RNA breaking down the bone within the bone marrow cells [4]. Therefore, this made it clear to the researchers that the RNA had a strong impact on bones.
The immune system response led to the bones being further affected. While a process called stromal osteoblast helped to build new bone material for some bones, many were damaged, causing the bone to erode [4].
When the gums become inflamed from bacterial disease, a similar process happens, where the bones gradually erode. While some bones may be able to rebuild, many won’t – which worsens gum disease [4].
What this means
The researchers noted in their conclusions that the results were important for the management of gum disease. They noted that when RNA is introduced via bacteria, the immune system response clearly shows how inflammation occurs [3].
Looking to the future, the researchers suggested that their findings could be helpful for dental professionals. Dentists always preach the importance of looking after the health of our gums, with this article again emphasizing their importance.
They wish to further examine RNA’s impact on the immune system going forward. They noted that this may help develop drugs in the future that could prevent bone loss from gum disease [3].
Thinking points…
1) The main focus of this article is gum disease. As mentioned above, the majority of people have some form of the condition. If left untreated, pain and possible tooth removal could eventually happen. Therefore, it is important to attend regular dental check-ups, as a dentist will be able to look at the state of your gums, and give you an update. Why not book an appointment right away!
2) This article also discusses bacteria. Many people don’t realise that bacteria enters our mouths very easily! It isn’t just a case that bacteria enters our mouths just when eating and drinking. When we bite our nails, chew on a pen lid – these are all ways of bacteria making it into our mouths. Therefore, remember to be careful about what you put into your mouth, and have strong oral hygiene!
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides a warm welcome and comfortable experience to its patience whenever needed.
We recommend that our patients attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.
Here at [clinic], we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! These treatments can have a positive impact on your appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
Importantly, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is helpful.
In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are 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] Pihlstrom, B. L., Michalowicz, B. S., & Johnson, N. W. (2005). Periodontal diseases. Lancet. 366 (9499), p1809-1820. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(05)67728-8.
[2] Tominari, T., Sanada, A., Ichimaru, R., Matsumoto, C., Hirata, M., Itoh, Y., Numabe, Y., Miyaura, C., & Inada, M. (2021). Gram-positive bacteria cell wall-derived lipoteichoic acid induces inflammatory alveolar bone loss through prostaglandin E production in osteoblasts. Scientific Reports. 11 (13353). DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-92744-5.
[3] Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. (2022). Double-stranded RNA induces bone loss during gum disease. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-04-double-stranded-rna-bone-loss-gum.html. Last accessed: 16th April 2022.
[4] Tominari, T., Akita, M., Matsumoto, C., Hirata, M., Yoshinouchi, S., Tanaka, Y., Karouji, K., Itoh, Y., Maruyama, T., Miyaura, C., Numabe, Y., & Inada, M. (2022). Endosomal TLR3 signaling in stromal osteoblasts induces prostaglandin E2–mediated inflammatory periodontal bone resorption. Journal of Biological Chemistry. 298 (3). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101603.
