A LOZENGE made from ‘friendly’ bacteria is being used to fight gum disease caused by a build-up of other bacteria on the teeth near the gum line. Gums become more inflamed as the immune system tries to fight the bacteria, and this can be the reason gums bleed when you brush. The chronic inflammation is also associated with a raised risk of heart attach and stroke, possibly as it damages blood vessels. The lozenge contains the probiotic lactobacilli, which usually live in the digestive and urinary systems. They are thought to reduce the Immune system response and inflammation. In a trial at Indias government Dental College and Hospital, 40 patients will receive the probiotic or a placebo four times a day for eight weeks, as well as normal dental treatment.
