Preventing Biofilm Formation and Improving the Delivery of Functional Ingredients

One cause of periodontal disease is the accumulation of dental biofilm (plaque) in the space between the teeth and gum (periodontal pockets).
To prevent this disease, dental biofilm needs to be removed every day by brushing the teeth, and gum inflammation has to be controlled with anti-inflammatory agents at the right time and in the right way.

At Kao, we focused on the mechanism of dental biofilm formation, which builds up through the aggregation of various bacteria. We designed the molecule isodecyl galactoside (ID-GAL) as a new cleaning agent that inhibits the accumulation of these bacterial cells, and also developed an in-house manufacturing process.
Products containing ID-GAL can prevent the buildup of biofilm, reduce plaque and bad mouth odor.

To control the inflammation response of the gums, it is not enough to simply apply anti-inflammatory agents. Rather, the active ingredients require efficient delivery to the disease area: the very narrow periodontal pockets. Kao has developed a safe delivery system for active ingredients called “Gel Agar Particle” (GAP).
Use of dentifrices containing these GAP can markedly reduce swelling or bleeding of the gums due to periodontitis.

The efficacy and safety of these technologies have been confirmed through in vitro and in vivo experiments via collaboration with relevant fundamental research labs. They have also passed environmental assessment and are now used in oral care products from Kao.
We will continue to bring together various fields of technology based on our fundamental oral technology research to develop products that can prevent tooth decay, periodontal disease, and bad mouth odor.