A pioneering study in Lithuania aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel light-activated antibacterial treatment for advanced periodontitis.
The study, titled “Regular Home-Use of Dual-Light Photodynamic Therapy in Managing Chronic Stage III-IV Periodontitis” (LumoKaunas2023), was launched in August 2023. To date, 38 out of the planned 60 participants have enrolled, and the research team is focused on testing the Lumoral device, which has been developed by Finnish scientists.
The Lumoral device utilizes a specialized mouthwash combined with light therapy for a targeted antibacterial treatment, designed to address the severe gum inflammation associated with chronic periodontitis. While earlier studies, such as the HOPE-CP trial, demonstrated the device’s success in treating early-stage periodontitis, the LumoKaunas2023 study will assess its effectiveness in managing more advanced forms of the disease. Light-activated therapies like Lumoral offer promising alternatives to traditional treatments, presenting a potential solution to manage the risks of periodontitis more effectively.
“The LumoKaunas2023 study is examining whether this innovative therapy can effectively address advanced periodontitis,” said Mikko Kylmänen, Clinical Research Project Manager at Koite Health Oy, during a visit to the Kaunas research team. “We eagerly anticipate more evidence on how the Lumoral device can improve outcomes for patients with severe periodontitis.” The study is being closely monitored by Insuvia UAB, which is ensuring the collection of high-quality data and reliable findings.
Previous research from the HOPE-CP study highlighted the benefits of antibacterial light therapy for early-stage periodontitis. In that trial, Lumoral users showed a 54% healing rate from gum inflammation, as measured by the BOP (bleeding on probing) index, compared to just 22% in the control group. Additionally, 67% of Lumoral users were able to reduce the number of deep gum pockets by half, with some participants eliminating them.
“The evidence strongly suggests that regularly removing bacteria from dental plaque can significantly improve oral hygiene and treat gum disease,” said Tommi Pätilä, the developer of Lumoral and a heart surgeon.
The LumoKaunas2023 study is expected to conclude by early autumn 2025, marking a significant step forward in periodontal care. The results could pave the way for new approaches to managing advanced periodontitis, a condition that affects millions globally.
In addition to improving oral hygiene and reducing the risk of infection, Lumoral provides a cost-effective, at-home complement to professional dental treatments. Dr. Pätilä emphasized that the device could help alleviate pressure on dental care systems by reducing the need for intensive in-clinic procedures.
Ultimately, the study highlights the growing importance of integrating advanced technologies like Lumoral into routine dental care, with the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce the broader impact of periodontal disease on overall health.
Source: Dental News
