The need for emergency dentistry could be reduced through the use of DNA analysis, scientists have claimed.
Breakthrough research from the University of Michigan’s School of Dentistry will attempt to use DNA to predict whether or not patients are likely to suffer from gum disease in the future.
If positive results come out of the test, it could have important implications for preventive care against a wide range of tooth and mouth-related problems.
Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, said the ability to diagnose gum disease early could vastly improve people’s oral health.
“There is also a considerable long-term financial benefit to stamping out such a potentially harmful disease,” he added.
“Cutting the risk of gum disease could save the government millions in costly treatments.”
According to the NHS, between 50 and 90 per cent of adults in the UK are affected by some degree of gum disease.