Scientists from Ohio State University released the findings of a study earlier this month which indicates similarities between a common bacteria found in healthy mouths and another bacteria which is known to cause periodontitis, a severe gum disease. The findings of this study were obtained by analyzing the genetic makeup of 12 bacterial cells that were collected from the mouth of one person with good oral health. The main reason for this study was to improve the methods used to understand and classify unique oral bacteria which is unable to be duplicated in lab cultures.

The 12 samples of a common oral bacteria which was recently classified as Tannerella BU063 was found to represent 8 different strains which slightly varied in genetic composition. The bacterial cells were individually analyzed and had their genetic sequence mapped to compare with other bacteria which have been difficult to study. BU063 was carefully compared to a malicious oral bacteria that is closely linked to periodontitis called Tanerella Forsythia. The comparison showed similarities in genetic composition between the different bacteria cells.

Ohio State University’s scientific research has produced a great breakthrough in creating opportunity for further analyzation of bacteria which has remained difficult to study. Read OSU’s full research report here.

Keep checking Briggs Family Dentistry’s blog for more interesting information about new discoveries related to oral health.