Cardiac Surgeon Develops Light Therapy for Oral Health to Enhance Plaque Removal

Helsinki-based cardiac surgeon Tommi Pätilä's observation linking oral bacteria to severe heart conditions spurred the development of a new health technology. In 2016, during a complex heart surgery, Pätilä discovered that the patient's heart problems were caused by bacteria originating from the mouth, prompting him to seek a method to prevent such complications.

Research indicated that conventional cleaning methods, such as toothbrushing, can only remove 50-65% of dental plaque, which is responsible for 95% of oral diseases. To address this, Pätilä collaborated with engineer Sakari Nikinmaa. Their research group at Aalto University brought together experts in physics, chemistry, and dentistry, including semiconductor chemist Juha Rantala and laboratory analyst Saija Perovuo.

The research team developed the Lumoral device, which utilizes a light-activated mouth rinse and precisely selected light wavelengths. This combination creates a targeted antibacterial effect capable of destroying plaque bacteria more effectively than mechanical cleaning alone. The device's development involved thousands of in vitro experiments and international expertise.

Lumoral treatment's efficacy has been evaluated in extensive European clinical trials led by Professor Timo Sorsa. The results confirmed that the therapy significantly improves treatment outcomes for periodontal diseases when used as part of regular oral hygiene. The technology has garnered international interest as it offers a new solution for infections caused by common global bacteria.