Of Growing Relevance

Gum disease can be prevented through daily plaque removal by brushing
If you were to lose a tooth due to trauma, infection, decay, or periodontal disease, wouldn’t it be great if you could simply grow a replacement tooth? After all, when sharks lose teeth, the ones from the row behind them move in to take their places. Scientists doing research on the matter think that the possibility exists. In fact, geneticists have recently discovered the gene responsible for switching on the replacement-tooth mechanism. The so-called Osr2 gene resides below the top layer of gum tissue (epithelium) in mesenchymal tissue, where it combines efforts with two other genes to form budding teeth. Manipulating this gene is no doubt a tricky matter, but who knows what the future may hold?

This informative column has been brought to you as a public service. Early visits to your dentist can help ensure healthy and beautiful teeth. At the office of Richard Seidler, D.D.S. - Family Dentistry, we provide a full range of dental treatments, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. Except in rare cases, gum disease can be prevented through daily plaque removal by brushing, cleaning between teeth with floss or interdental cleaners, eating a balanced diet, and regularly visiting us for professional cleanings.

Did you know?
Equally intriguing to scientists is the finding that the Osr2 gene also is associated with cleft palates. Further research may also reveal ways to prevent this birth defect.

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