The importance of MMP and their diagnosis in contemporary holistic stomatology?

What are MMPs?

MMPs are enzymatic proteins that our body produces naturally. They can be compared to "tissue repairmen" – they help break down old, damaged tissues so that new and healthy tissue can develop in their place. This process is called remodeling.

The role of MMPs in our body

MMPs play an important role in maintaining the integrity of the body:

• Help heal injuries

• Participate in the formation of new bone tissue

• Are important in tooth movement during orthodontic treatment

However, overly active MMPs can become harmful:

• Excessively break down bone tissue

• Cause gingivitis or periodontitis

• Can lead to implant failures

The level of MMPs and your oral health

Particular attention is given to activated MMP-8 (aMMP-8), which can be measured with a simple saliva or gingival fluid test.

A high level of aMMP-8 may indicate:

• Gingivitis (periodontitis)

• Peri-implantitis, or inflammation around the implant

• Bone loss and tooth mobility

• Recession of the gums and changes in tooth position

• Risk of failure of implants or prosthetics

Practical home recommendations for balancing MMP activity

1. Oral hygiene:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft brush

• Use dental floss or interdental brushes

• Clean your tongue regularly

• Rinse your mouth (e.g., with salt-soda solution or green tea rinse)

• Chlorhexidine if necessary (only at the doctor's recommendation)

2. Nutrition:

Foods to eat more:

• Green tea (catechins inhibit MMP activity)

• Turmeric and ginger (anti-inflammatory)

• Dark chocolate (min. 70% cocoa)

• Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, flaxseeds)

• Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables

Foods to limit:

• Sugar-rich foods/drinks

• Refined carbohydrates

• Alcohol

3. Lifestyle:

• Sleep 7-8 hours a day

• Reduce stress (yoga, meditation)

• Exercise regularly

• Quit smoking

When should you see a doctor?

Regular check-ups of gum and dental supporting tissues along with an appropriate aMMP-8 saliva test, X-ray examination, and clinical observation provide early detection of disease and easier treatment.

If you notice the following symptoms, be sure to consult a dentist:

• Bleeding gums when brushing teeth

• Red or swollen gums

• Tooth mobility

• Bad breath that does not go away even with good oral hygiene

• Pain or discomfort around implants

• Planning a joint prosthesis operation or dental procedures

Want to know what's going on with your oral health?

At our clinic, you can do a quick and painless saliva test that shows exactly whether there are hidden inflammatory processes occurring in the oral cavity. This way, we can detect problems early and prevent more significant damage. Book an appointment for your initial consultation and aMMP-8 test today. You will receive a personalized and caring approach along with the most modern diagnostic options. Your healthier smile starts here!