Scientists at the Leeds Dental Institute have developed a new mouth wash. It kills plaque-causing bacteria when a light is shone into the mouth. Its working can be same as some cancer treatment methods. In cancer treatment a substance is painted on target area exposed to light of a certain wavelength to kill cancer cell.

Dental plaque is the leading cause of gum disease. It causes bad breath, calculus deposits on teeth and loosening of teeth in some cases. The new mouthwash will prove useful for patients who cannot take care of their teeth due to various disabilities.

Photo dynamic therapy is used in the mouthwash. It was initially considered helpful to cancer patients who cannot take proper care of oral hygiene but later it was found that it can kill plaque forming bacteria by absorbing the mouthwash when a special light is directed on it.
 
The mouth wash will be available within three years with light arrangement at the head of tooth brush. Research Director at the Leeds Dental Institute, Prof Jennifer Kirkham said that it is very safe for use and causes no if it is swallowed by accident.

The same team of scientists is also working on a "repair solution" to help the body grow new enamel. It will reduce the need of cavity drilling and filling. It will, entirely, change the dental care technology in near future. The alternate to drilling can be replaced with new technology within next five years.