Trisha E. O'Hehir

Saturday 5th March: 11.50-12.30
Beyond the Matrix - Xylitol's Penetration and Disruption of Biofilm

Bacterial biofilm is a complex ecosystem triggering a cascade of inflammatory and acid producing responses. Sustainability of the biofilm matrix depends on communication between bacteria, quorum sensing and production of polysaccharide slime. Xylitol, a natural sweetener, interferes with bacterial metabolism of sucrose, thus preventing acid production. Xylitol also blocks the communication between bacterial cells necessary to sustain a complex biofilm structure. Five full doses of xylitol daily will block biofilm formation. Xylitol brings sweet success to oral health.

Biography

Trisha E. O'Hehir, RDH, MS

In addition to extensive clinical practice experience in the United States and Switzerland, Trisha is an international lecturer, Editorial Director of Hygienetown Magazine, and President of the Perio Reports Press.  She has held faculty positions at the Universities of Minnesota, Washington, Arizona and Louisville.  She pioneered the position of Periodontal Therapist in Arizona, and taught local anesthesia for several years.  Trisha is considered a future-focused thinker who presents thought provoking programs combining current research, practical applications, and alternatives for the future.