Target-seeking toothpaste goes after bacteria that cause gum disease

Image: A schematic illustration of Porphyromonas gingivalis bacteria (orange), the active compound in the toothpaste (blue) and a healthy microbiome at the transition between gum and tooth. Image source: © PerioTrap. Article by Ben Coxworth. New Atlas – January 9, 2026. Source: Fraunhofer.

There could be new hope in the fight against gum disease. Scientists have developed a toothpaste that targets only the bacteria that cause periodontitis, leaving the rest of the oral microbiome healthy and intact. The term “oral microbiome” refers to the community of microorganisms that live inside of our mouths. That community includes over 700 types of bacteria, most of which are harmless or even beneficial, and only a few of which cause periodontitis. More commonly known as gum disease, periodontitis […]

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