Table of Contents
- 1 The protocol involved applying a 20% annatto spray to the back of the tongue followed by illumination of six specific points with a blue LED.
- 2 How does the technology work?
- 3 Social Impact and Accessibility
- 4 **What are the potential long-term benefits of using annatto dye and blue LED light to treat bad breath, compared to traditional methods?**
The protocol involved applying a 20% annatto spray to the back of the tongue followed by illumination of six specific points with a blue LED.
For aPDT sessions, annatto photosensitizer was mixed at a concentration of 20% in spray form.
Photo: Sandra K. Bussadori et al./PLOS ONE
A study published in the scientific journal PLOS ONE presents an innovative and effective approach to treating bad breath in children. This study used antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) using annatto dye and blue LED light with promising results in 52 mouth-breathing children aged 6 to 12 years and diagnosed with bad breath.
Bad breath, characterized by an unpleasant odor coming from the mouth, can be worsened by mouth breathing, which reduces saliva production and antibacterial function. According to Sandra Kalil Bussadori, a pediatric dentist and researcher involved in the study, “The photosensitizer used was annatto, which is red, and this, combined with the blue LEDs of the light-curing devices that dentists already have in their practices, promoted the adoption of light-curing devices. . Protocol,” she said. To Agência FAPESP.
This treatment has shown superior results compared to traditional methods such as the use of tongue scrapers, making it an accessible and viable alternative for healthcare professionals. Bussadori also highlights the development of the Annatto spray, which was patented in 2020, as part of its research.
How does the technology work?
In aPDT, photosensitizers are activated by light to produce oxygen radicals that kill bacteria. During the study, the children received guidance on oral hygiene and were divided into two groups. One group treated bad breath by applying annatto dye and LED lights to the tongue, while the other group used only a scraper.
The protocol included applying a 20% Annatto spray to the back of the tongue and irradiating six specific points with a blue LED for 20 seconds each. Results were measured before treatment, immediately after treatment, at 7-day, and 30-day intervals, and the group that received photodynamic therapy showed more significant improvement.
Busadori explains that bad breath is not only a physical health problem, but also has social implications, causing embarrassment and even psychological changes. The researchers emphasize that the use of blue LEDs, already present in many dental practices, in combination with annatto dyes is an economical and accessible solution.
This study, led by Laura Hermida Cardoso and developed in collaboration with Nove de Julho University, the Catholic University of Uruguay and the Metropolitan University of Santos, was funded by FAPESP and opens the way for a new treatment protocol based on biophotonics.
Although testing has only been conducted on children, the technology holds promise for people of all ages and is firmly established as an advancement in accessible and sustainable dental care.
**What are the potential long-term benefits of using annatto dye and blue LED light to treat bad breath, compared to traditional methods?**
## World Today News: A New Hope for Banishing Bad Breath?
**Welcome to World Today News in conversation. Today, we’re exploring a groundbreaking scientific study that’s changing the way we approach a common, often embarrassing ailment – bad breath.**
We’re joined by two distinguished guests:
* **Dr. Sandra Kalil Bussadori**, a leading pediatric dentist and researcher at Nove de Julho University, and key figure in the development of this innovative treatment.
* **Dr. [Guest 2 Name]**, a prominent expert in children’s oral health and prominent voice in advocating for sustainable, accessible dental care.
**(Theme 1: Understanding the Problem)**
**Interviewer:** Dr. Bussadori, thank you for joining us. Let’s dive right in. The article highlights the social and psychological impact of bad breath, particularly in children. Could you elaborate on just how damaging this seemingly simple issue can be?
**( Dr. Bussadori’s response)**
**Interviewer:** Dr. [Guest 2 Name], from your perspective, how prevalent is bad breath in children, and what are the main contributing factors beyond mere hygiene habits?
**( Dr. [Guest 2 Name]’s response)**
**(Theme 2: Annatto Dye and Blue LED: A Powerful Combination)**
**Interviewer:** Dr. Bussadori, your research utilizes a fascinating combination of annatto dye and blue LED light. For our audience unfamiliar with photodynamic therapy, could you explain the science behind how this duo combats the bacteria responsible for bad breath?
**( Dr. Bussadori’s response)**
**Interviewer:** This relies on technology many dentists already have. What are the advantages of using such readily available tools, both in terms of cost-effectiveness and accessibility for patients?
**( Dr. Bussadori’s response)**
**(Theme 3: Beyond the Clinic: The Larger Implications)**
**Interviewer:** Dr. [Guest 2 Name], given the promising results of this study, do you foresee this
technology becoming a mainstay in dental offices worldwide? What steps are needed to ensure its
wider adoption and make it accessible to all who need it?
**(Dr. [Guest 2 Name]’s response)**
**Interviewer:** Dr. Bussadori, what are the next steps for your research? Are you looking to expand this treatment to adults or explore other uses for this innovative technique?
**( Dr. Bussadori’s response)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you both for shedding light on this exciting development in oral health. It’s clear that science is bringing us closer to effective and accessible solutions for a problem that affects so many.
Let us know what you think of this potential breakthrough! Leave your comments below and join the conversation on World Today News.
