• FUND
• Feb 2023
• Bulletin

Gum Disease Treatment Project

Supported by Azalea (1972) Endowment Fund

Dr George Pelekos (right) and Dr Chris Fok are grateful to receive the Azalea Fund. They are looking forward to improving the oral health of those suffering from severe periodontitis.

A gum disease treatment project (Project) proposed by Dr George Pelekos, Clinical Assistant Professor & Postgraduate Program Director in Periodontology and Implant Dentistry and Dr Chris Fok, Honorary Clinical Assistant Professor has received HKD 11 million support from the Azalea (1972) Endowment Fund (Azalea Fund) lately.

According to the Oral Health Survey in 2011, the prevalence of severe periodontitis (gum disease with loss of bone) in Hong Kong was estimated to be affecting around 0.7-1.4 (between 10-20%) million adults. Among them around 0.5 million adults suffered from end-stage periodontitis, which often results in tooth loss. Tooth loss eventually leads to impaired chewing function compromising dietary intake, self-esteem and overall quality of life. Treatments for these patients often include comprehensive and multidisciplinary specialist treatment such as periodontal, followed by orthodontic and rehabilitation of the dentition. Often, the treatment is not easily affordable, especially for underserved populations.

With the generous support from the Azalea Fund, the division of Periodontology and the Institute for Advanced Dentistry Multi-specialty Clinic (IAD-MSC) of HKU Faculty of Dentistry are able to provide free treatment to at least 100 underserved patients with end-stage periodontitis at IAD-MSC, a centre of excellence for the management of complex and severe oral conditions.

The project team is determined to improve the patients’ oral health, chewing function, speaking, socializing ability and confidence; and to educate the public by enhancing their awareness of periodontitis, its treatment and prevention.

This project benefits the community and facilitates the development, specialist training and continuing education of the dental profession, as well as creates research opportunities for postgraduate students.

Wish to learn more details about this 5-year Project? Stay tuned!