著者

花田 信弘

出版者

福岡歯科大学学会

雑誌

福岡歯科大学学会雑誌 (ISSN:03850064)

巻号頁・発行日

vol.28, no.4, pp.117-121, 2001-12-30

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The oral cavity plays an important role in performing all functions awkward use involving communication and mastication. Therefore, the deterioration of oral functions caused by dental caries and periodontal diseases may have harmful influences on general health. Previous reports have revealed that dental caries is an infectious disease caused by domestic infection with Streptococcus mutans. Clinical trials conducted in northern Europe have shown that prevention of S. mutans infection from mother to child is possible. One British research group, which has been involved in the development of a vaccine for dental caries, succeeded in synthesizing an IgG and secretary IgA antibodies against S. mutans protein antigen I / II from tobacco. They then reported that it is possible to eliminate S. mutans from the oral cavity using these antibodies. Recently, we found a method of eliminating S. mutans without any antibodies. A dental drug delivery system (3DS) with dental trays and chlorhexidin gel was proposed to eliminate S. mutans, and similar methods are spreading rapidly in Japanese dental clinics. 3DS will become a powerful tool to prevent the transmission of oral pathogens. 3DS will contribute to not only dental caries but also to general health through pathogenic bacterial control.