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We’ve all heard the advertisements: Four out of five dentists recommend sugarless gum. What about gum with a natural antimicrobial ingredient?

A company based in Hunt Valley, Maryland, wants to find out if its experimental chewing gum can reduce the symptoms of gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums.

“We are looking for individuals who have a certain degree of inflammation already,” said Dr. Harlan J. Shiau, D.D.S., professor at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. People 18 and over with mild to moderate gingivitis and at least 20 natural teeth may volunteer.

Those chosen to participate will receive a dental exam and baseline gum cleaning. Half of the participants will then be given gum containing the antimicrobial ingredient, and half will be given a placebo gum (a gum that looks and tastes the same but doesn’t contain the test ingredient).

All participants will be asked to chew their gum for 20 to 30 minutes three times a day for 12 weeks. Participants will visit Shiau’s office periodically, and at the end of the study will be evaluated for gum inflammation. The study office is at the UM School of Dentistry, 650 W. Baltimore St., in downtown Baltimore.

“All ingredients of the test chewing gum, as well as the placebo chewing gum, are generally regarded as safe,” according to the study’s description.

One of the active ingredients in the experimental gum is chitosan, Shiau said. Chitosan is “a carbohydrate similar to a compound that crustacean shells are made of. It’s a pretty commonly used ingredient in the food industry and is generally considered a food product,” he said.

The randomized, controlled trial is funded by Hunt Valley-based Per Os Biosciences and the Maryland Industrial Partnership, a program that connects small businesses in the state to academics.

Shiau looks forward to seeing results and says that gum could be a good way to manage gingivitis.

“We know the cause of gingivitis is build-up of plaque. If left uncontrolled, people will develop some degree of gingivitis. Chances are you’ll miss an area [while brushing or flossing], and deposits will build up,” Shiau said. “I’m curious to see the rate that people will redevelop inflammation.”

The study, which will help Per Os Biosciences gain FDA approval for the gum, is enrolling this summer. Participants will be compensated for their time. To learn more or volunteer, call (410) 941-9427 or email hshiau@umaryland.edu.