Chewing gum significantly reduces potential for gingivitis.

A double-blind placebo-controlled clinical study conducted in Sweden shows that patients who chew gum containing BioGaia's Lactobacillus Reuteri Prodentis have significantly reduced bleeding of the gums after two weeks of use. Around 85% of the patients in the study reacted positively to this treatment.

L. reuteri produces a substance named reuterin, which combats harmful bacteria. It reduces the risk of stomach disorders, binds to the gut mucus and contributes to the body's immune defense. This substance can inhibit or prevent the growth of many different types of microorganisms, both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, fungi and protozoa. It may also play a role in neutralizing toxins, including carcinogens. The activity of L. reuteri is well-documented, and the substance is covered by a number of worldwide patents relating to the use of Reuteri as a probiotic and to its antimicrobial effects.

More than 3 million Swedes suffer from bleeding of the gums that is more or less severe gingivitis. International data show that the incidence of gingivitis is largely the same in other countries. Bleeding gums are clearly a public health concern and occur even in very young patients. Dentists and dental hygienists recommend a regimen of daily brushing, picking and flossing, but this is not always effective. Many of the patients who need treatment for gingivitis return year after year with the same problem. Aside from chronic discomfort for the patient, gingivitis also poses a clinical threat since it can advance to the more serious periodontitis and loss of teeth.

Trial sales of chewing gum and lozenges under the BioGaia brand name will be launched on a small scale through dentists in the Skane region of Sweden, and will later be expanded to the entire country and other markets. A patent application has been filed for use of the bacterial strain L. Reuteri Prodentis for the treatment of gingivitis and other oral health problems. Much of BioGaia's research is directed toward understanding the health-enhancing properties and mechanisms of action of the probiotic lactic acid bacterium species Lactobacillus reuteri.

Further information. Jan Annwall, Deputy Managing Director, BioGaia AB, Tegnergatan 15, P.O. Box 3242, SE-103 64 Stockholm, Sweden; phone: [phone]; fax: [phone]; URL: http://www.biogaia.se.