Treating gum disease with doxycycline focus of CTR seminar









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Jeffrey Payne, D.D.S.

A UNMC clinical trial that showed how small doses of doxycycline help treat gum disease in postmenopausal women will be the focus of the monthly Clinical and Translational Research (CTR) Seminar on Monday.

Jeffrey Payne, D.D.S., associate dean for research in the UNMC College of Dentistry, will present the seminar at noon in the Eppley Science Hall Amphitheater.

During his presentation, Dr. Payne will discuss how, in small doses, doxycycline acts as an inhibitor of an enzyme that attacks collagen — the primary structural protein in bone and soft tissue.

The drug combined with cleanings and other treatments, helps treat gum disease in postmenopausal women — who are susceptible to the condition.

“The inhibition of this enzyme preserves collagen needed to maintain healthy gums,” Dr. Payne said. “This in turn helps patients keep their teeth and experience a higher quality of life.”

Good gum health also contributes to overall health, Dr. Payne said, noting that studies have shown links between gum disease and cardiovascular disease and complications with diabetes.

“Maintaining periodontal health is an important contributor to maintaining systemic health,” he said.

Dr. Payne’s presentation is part of the ongoing CTR series that is typically held on the third Monday of each month. The CTR series brings clinical and basic science investigators together to identify new ways to collaborate and answer important clinical questions.

The seminar will be recorded and available for investigators who cannot attend.

It also will be televised at the following sites:

  • College of Dentistry in Lincoln, Room 52;
  • College of Nursing in Lincoln, Room 307;
  • College of Nursing in Scottsbluff, Panhandle Station Room 203;
  • College of Nursing in Kearney, CMCT 216; and
  • College of Nursing in Omaha, Room 4078.

Click here to see a Web site to see information about this and future CTR seminars.