Fluid produced in the gums may lead to the development of non-invasive tests to diagnosing gum disease, according to a study published in the Journal of Proteome Research.

A team of researchers have found that the newly discovered gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) builds up where inflammation between the teeth and gums occurs. Since taking samples of GCF is very simple, the fluid has become more important to developing tests that can determine if a patient is suffering from gum disease.

A total of 12 samples of GCF were taken from patients who had a history of gum disease, and researchers were able to identify more than 60 proteins in each sample. Among the nutrients, the team discovered 43 of the compounds in the fluid for the first time, which included different forms of bacteria that can lead to the breakdown of gums and teeth.

Furthermore, the investigators also found several antibacterial substances that help prevent infection.

While the discovery of GCF has provided physicians with new information to help develop a non-invasive gum disease test, the team concluded that further research is still be needed in order to figure out the chemical composition of the fluid.

About 8.5 percent of the people aged 20 to 64 years in the U.S. have been diagnosed with gum disease, according to National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.