A drug used to help people quit smoking may also reduce cocaine cravings in rats, with results showing a reduction of over 40% in self-administration. Mecamylamine blocks nicotinic receptors, which are involved in generating feelings of pleasure and can contribute to addiction.
Researchers found that common food preservatives appear to enhance the cavity-protecting action of fluoride, leading to fewer cavities in rats. Avoiding high-sugar foods, maintaining good brushing habits, and regular dental checkups remain essential for preventing cavities.
Researchers at UB School of Dental Medicine found a strong link between obesity and gum disease, with overweight individuals showing a 50% increased risk of severe periodontal disease. The study also suggests that bacteria in the mouth may contribute to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
The cavity rate among children in Rochester is on the rise slightly, with an average of three cavities per 10-year-old child. The decline in cavity rates that began in the 1970s and 1980s has flattened, and researchers warn that complacency may be contributing to the increase.