A recent research has introduced a novel approach using antibacterial light-activated Lumoral treatment to address common oral health issues such as gingivitis and periodontitis, not only to improve oral health but also enhance the general well-being of older populations in elderly care homes.
Finnish scientists conducting the study "Effects of Regular Antibacterial Photodynamic Therapy on Oral Hygiene in Elderly 24-Hour Care Residents" observed a significant decline in the number of individuals without teeth in institutional care, though the overall condition of teeth remains a concern.
These findings were presented at the recent American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida.
Dental problems such as caries and periodontal diseases are prevalent among residents of 24-hour care facilities, particularly those aged 75 and older, motivating researchers to explore new avenues for improving their oral health.
"In Finland, the oral health of elderly individuals, especially those in long-term care, requires significant improvement," stated Jaana Helenius-Hietala, Deputy Chief Dentist at Helsinki University Hospital (HUS), Finland.
Similar challenges are observed across Western countries, highlighting substantial deficiencies in oral hygiene maintenance among individuals in 24-hour care settings.
Recent studies indicate that many older adults retain their natural teeth, putting them at higher risk for oral diseases due to bacteria buildup on teeth and in interdental spaces.
These conditions, such as dental plaque accumulation and attachment tissue diseases, not only impact oral health but also increase the risk of chronic diseases and diminish overall quality of life, potentially worsening severe illnesses like dementia.
Helenius-Hietala is part of a research team investigating the effectiveness of Lumoral on elderly individuals in 24-hour care facilities. Conducted in Helsinki's Laajasalo and Roihuvuori units, the study involved 31 residents with a minimum of 10 teeth each.
The participants were randomly assigned to receive either self-care guidance alone (control group) or in conjunction with antibacterial light-activated Lumoral therapy twice weekly (treatment group), alongside regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing.
Over the trial period, the oral health of participants was monitored regularly using manual examination and the aMMP-8 (Active MMP-8) diagnostic tool, which detects MMP-8 levels in saliva, detecting tissue degradation associated with periodontal diseases, underscoring the importance of effective oral care in preventing these conditions.
According to Helenius-Hietala, both study groups showed improvement in Visible Plaque Index (VPI) scores, but the Lumoral group also demonstrated statistically significant increase in the Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN) index, which evaluates periodontal health by assessing indicators like pocket depth and bleeding upon probing.
Initial findings from the study revealed positive trends in oral health outcomes among Lumoral-treated residents, with a reduction in bacterial load and improvements in periodontal health markers.
"Lumoral not only improves oral hygiene but can also help increase oral moisture, addressing common dry mouth issues in elderly individuals taking multiple medications," explained Helenius-Hietala, emphasizing the complementary role of brushing despite the therapy's benefits.
Gum disease remains a critical concern due to its implications for overall health, with untreated infections potentially leading to severe conditions like periodontitis. Innovative approaches like antibacterial light-activated therapy offer promising avenues for effectively managing oral bacteria and reducing plaque levels, particularly beneficial for individuals with limited oral care capabilities in care settings.
Developed collaboratively with dental and therapy experts, Lumoral represents a significant advancement in oral hygiene technology, aiming to provide a practical and non-invasive method for enhancing oral health at home.
In conclusion, the study's initial findings suggest that regular use of antibacterial light-activated Lumoral therapy could significantly benefit elderly individuals in 24-hour care facilities, offering a potential breakthrough in managing oral health issues among aging populations.
Further research and broader implementation of this innovative approach could pave the way for improved oral care practices and better health outcomes in elderly care settings worldwide.