Dentistry is under going vast changes. The days ahead are likely to see entire new methods by which we clean our teeth. Can you imagine a source of light that does the job of your mouthwash.

Scientists have developed a mouthwash that destroys plaque causing bacteria using a bright light. The new treatment is akin to cancer treatment where light is used to destroy the cancerous growth. Leeds Dental Institute plans to make this system available within three years.

The device could be a toothbrush with a light at the tip. The use of this light will also reduce to a great extent the requirement of drilling and filling our teeth at the Dentist’s Clinic. A similar process could be used to grow enamel on our teeth.

Some machines using photodynamic therapy in dental clinics already exist. The aim here is to find a way the mouthwash, that is the light, could be used at home.