A vaccine is being developed in Australia to treat severe gum disease, peridontitis.

Periodontitis, which causes gums to bleed and teeth to fall out, is an infection resulting from the build-up of particular bacteria that is common to most mouths. The best prevention is brushing and flossing.

But a cure for the disease is now a step closer after a Melbourne research team signed a development deal with drug companies CSL and Sanofi Pasteur, reports The Age .

Scientists from the University of Melbourne say the boost from the drug company means that human trials of the vaccine could start within a few years.

Dr Neil O'Brien-Simpson, head of the vaccine project at the university, said that he hopes the vaccine could eventually be standard in every dental clinic.