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Much research is being done to develop chemical agents to destroy the bacteria that may cause periodontal disease. While various agents have been identified as decreasing placque, elimination of the bacteria remains a distant goal. Personal and professional placque removal will continue to comprise the major therapy for the treatment of gingivitis (inflammation of the gum tissue).3 The most promising avenue for attacking periodontal disease bacteria appears to be the use of chemical agents in mouth rinses which can be used by individuals as part of their home oral hygiene.

A substantial number of people do not practice proper oral hygiene nor obtain needed dental care. Only 50 percent of the population visit a dental office in any given year. People who do not receive proper prophylaxis (preventive treatment) from a dentist or dental hygienist are more susceptible to gingivitis and are more prone to periodontal disease. Even among people who do receive regular dental care, most will develop some form of gingivitis and periodontal disease that may lead to the loss of teeth.

About 24 percent of the population 45 to 64 years of age and 46 percent of the population 65 to 74 years of age are edentulous (without natural teeth). A conservative estimate is that 50 percent of the population 75 years of age or older are edentulous.4 The percentage of the Michigan population aged 65 and older is projected to increase from 9.8 percent in 1980 to 12.5 percent in the year 2000. The burgeoning number of middle age and older adults in the state's population suggests that, to significantly reduce the future demand for denture services, a remarkable change in oral health habits, increased utilization of dental care services, and a major advance in methods to attack the bacteria that cause periodontal disease would be necessary.

When the loss of natural teeth occurs, dentures compensate for this loss. The ability to eat certain foods contributes to sound nutrition and health. Dentures also help to alleviate psychological and emotional problems that a person without teeth may encounter.