A technique that uses fluorescent markers to tag bacteria cells might offer a new solution for pinpointing a source of infection — and the method makes it easy enough for the bacteria to be located by a smartphone camera.

Researchers from The University of Nottingham and GSK Consumer Healthcare studying dental cavities and periodontal diseases were able to grow polymers that, in essence, adhere to bacteria, according to a report by Dentistry Today.

“Prior to this study, locating the exact spot of the harmful bacteria from a serious medical or dental condition was challenging. But that could change now. This new approach, referred to as bacterial-instructed synthesis, nullifies the need for an advanced laboratory.”

To find out how this could be useful in parts of the world where advanced lab techniques are not available, read the full story on Dentistry Today.