A new study by NYU College of Dentistry shows that silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is an effective alternative to dental sealants for preventing cavities, especially in schools. SDF can increase access to dental care while reducing costs, and its use could keep kids from needing fillings, saving families and the healthcare system money.
Researchers found that individuals with poor self-reported oral health are at the same level of risk as those with diagnosed periodontal disease. Infrequent dental visits were also associated with an increase in all-cause mortality.
Researchers from Osaka University found that gargling with an antiseptic mouthwash can reduce periodontitis-related bacteria in patients with type 2 diabetes. This simple method may improve the lives of people with periodontitis-linked diseases such as diabetes, dementia, and cardiovascular disease.
The American Dental Association has released a new clinical practice guideline recommending the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) alone or with acetaminophen to manage short-term dental pain in adolescents and adults. The guideline also provides recommendations for prescribing opioid medications, emphasizing caution ...
The American Dental Association has released updated recommendations to enhance radiography safety in dentistry, emphasizing the appropriate and justified use of dental X-rays. The guidelines also advise against using lead abdominal aprons or thyroid collars, citing evidence that modern digital X-ray equipment and beam restrictions can...
A study reveals that mothers with high levels of dental plaque are 8 times more likely to transfer Candida albicans, a fungus involved in tooth decay, to their babies. This highlights the critical role of good oral hygiene for both mother and child.
A new study found that daily toothbrushing among hospitalized patients is associated with lower rates of hospital-acquired pneumonia and ICU mortality. The study, which analyzed data from over 2,700 patients, also showed that toothbrushing was linked to shorter durations of mechanical ventilation and ICU length of stay.
A study of Viking Age teeth from Varnhem in Sweden found that 49% of the population had one or more caries lesions, with children's milk teeth being entirely caries-free. The Vikings also underwent dental treatment, including filing front teeth and relieving pressure through holes drilled into molars.
A new study found that electric toothbrushes significantly reduce plaque and gingivitis in young children aged 3-10. The research showed that electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual toothbrushes in reducing these dental issues, with whole mouth plaque reduction increasing by up to 55.7% in younger children.
The USPSTF states that routine screening for oral health conditions, such as dental caries, is not recommended for children and adolescents aged 5-17. Untreated oral health issues can lead to serious infections affecting growth, development, and quality of life.
The USPSTF concludes that routine screening for dental caries or periodontal-related disease in adults lacks sufficient evidence, potentially leading to unnecessary procedures. Preventive interventions are also not recommended, as the current evidence is insufficient to assess their benefits and harms.
The new issue of Advances in Dental Research analyzes the link between healthy aging and access to quality oral health services. Key research highlights include the potential role of periodontal microflora in Alzheimer's disease progression and the impact of loneliness on health.
A new study shows a significant decline in dental opioid prescriptions, with 45% fewer opioids dispensed between 2016 and 2022. However, progress slowed significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which may be attributed to dentists being more cautious due to limited follow-up appointments.
Researchers found that Porphyromonas gingivalis inhibits autophagosome-lysosome fusion, worsening cardiac remodeling and causing cardiac rupture after myocardial infarction. The study suggests that treating this oral infection could help prevent fatal heart attacks.
Researchers have discovered a key mechanism involved in dental pulp inflammation and root apex damage, which could lead to the development of medications against bone loss due to endodontic infections. The study found that tumor necrosis factor-α receptor-1 (TNFR1) plays a crucial role in protecting teeth from inflammatory processes.
Research reveals strong associations between oral health and survival among people diagnosed with head and neck cancer, with better oral health linked to increased survival. Frequent dental visits were found to be associated with earlier cancer diagnosis and less deadly disease stages.
A recent MU study found that health and healthcare organizations are increasingly offering basic social services, such as transportation, housing, food, and mental health support, to address disparities in health outcomes. The research team explored innovative solutions implemented by care coordinators and social services to help overc...
The American Dental Association has released a new clinical practice guideline recommending the use of acetaminophen and/or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as first-line treatments for managing short-term dental pain in children under 12. The guideline has been endorsed by the American Dental Association.
Researchers at Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University School of Dentistry linked electronic dental and health records to provide better care for individuals with Sjögren's disease. This can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, reducing the impact of tooth decay and improving overall health.
A clinical trial found that hydroxyapatite toothpaste is equally effective in preventing cavities as fluoride toothpaste. The study involved 189 adults who used either hydroxyapatite or fluoride toothpaste for 18 months, with no significant difference in efficacy between the two groups.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 18, 2023
A study published in Neurology found that gum disease and tooth loss are linked to brain shrinkage, specifically in the hippocampus, which plays a role in memory and Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that controlling gum disease through regular dental visits is crucial for preserving brain health.
The American Dental Association's new clinical practice guideline recommends conservative carious tissue removal (CTR) as an effective treatment option for moderate and advanced tooth decay. CTR involves removing most, but not all, of the decayed tissue before sealing the tooth with a filling or cap, which stops tooth decay.
A retrospective cohort study reveals that racial disparities in tooth decay among children are significantly influenced by insurance type and dental procedure types. The study's findings suggest targeted strategies can be developed to reduce oral health disparities.
A new study by USC researchers shows that sensory adapted dental clinics significantly reduce autistic children's distress during teeth cleanings. The adapted environment features visual, auditory, and tactile adaptations, which lead to a decrease in behavioral and physiological stress.
A randomized crossover trial found sensory-adapted dental environments safe and effective for decreasing distress in autistic children. The intervention enhances oral care, potentially benefiting populations beyond autism.
Researchers develop microrobotic system using magnetic nanoparticles to target and eliminate fungal pathogens, achieving rapid eradication within 10 minutes. The nanozyme-based approach offers a potent and concentrated antifungal effect without affecting uninfected areas.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that patients with Type 2 diabetes who have full chewing function have significantly lower blood glucose levels compared to those with impaired chewing ability. The research highlights the importance of dental care and occlusal function in managing blood sugar levels.
The Journal of Dental Research (JDR) has published a special issue on aging and oral health, featuring research on biological mechanisms underlying age-related conditions such as cognitive decline. The issue aims to improve oral health care in older populations, promoting general health and well-being.
A new liposome-based method aims to kill periodontitis-causing leukotoxin while protecting immune cells, providing an alternative treatment for aggressive gum infections. The approach has potential applications against a range of bacteria and could help combat antibiotic resistance.
The study used LED imaging to visualize droplet spreading during dental procedures and found that extra-oral and intra-oral suction devices reduced droplet and aerosol spread by 97.8% and 92.1%, respectively. Understanding the dynamics of aerosols and droplets is crucial for preventing infectious diseases like COVID-19.
Michael Alfano was awarded the 2023 AADOCR Honorary Membership for his significant contributions to dental, oral, and craniofacial research. He is a renowned expert in improving higher education, particularly in dental education, and has made notable advancements in periodontal disease research.
A growing connection between diabetes, oral health, and dementia highlights the importance of dental care and diabetes management as we age. Older adults with both poor oral health and diabetes experience accelerated cognitive decline, emphasizing the need for regular dental visits and adherence to diabetes treatment.
This special supplement from Annals of Family Medicine highlights the work of six HRSA-funded academic units focused on advancing health care equity and improving primary care practices. The articles cover topics such as workforce training, mental health care seeking, socioeconomic issues, and whole-person oriented healthcare.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that grandparents often spoil grandchildren with sugary foods and drinks, increasing the risk of oral and overall health issues. The study highlights the importance of having 'treats in moderation' conversations with grandparents to promote healthy habits.
A NYU school dental program using silver diamine fluoride and sealants prevented 80% of cavities in a randomized trial. The study suggests an efficient and cost-effective approach to improving children's oral health through school-based care.
A recent study found that nearly half of older adults receive no dental care and half lack dental insurance. After becoming eligible for Medicare, the percentage of people receiving restorative dental care decreased by 8.7%, while complete edentulism increased by almost 5 percentage points among those aged 65 and above.
A study published in JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology found a significant correlation between periodontitis and fibrosis in the left atrium, which can lead to atrial fibrillation. Researchers suggest that periodontal care could aid in comprehensive management of atrial fibrillation.
A study by researchers from Okayama University found that Japanese university students' willingness to undergo regular dental check-ups is associated with their thoughts regarding the health-belief model and oral health behaviors. The study suggests that the perceived benefit of undergoing regular check-ups drives young students toward...
Researchers at NYU School of Global Public Health found that healthcare costs and out-of-pocket expenditures have continued to rise despite the Affordable Care Act improvements. Women with employer-sponsored insurance report greater difficulty paying for needed health care services, particularly dental and mental health care.
A study of 390 participants found that involvement in patient-facing dental activities did not increase the risk of COVID-19 infection when controlled measures were in place. The study suggests that intensive control measures can mitigate the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in dental clinical settings.
Researchers developed a customizable, strontium-loaded scaffold that promotes wound healing by stimulating gingival fibroblast activity. The scaffold increased cellular activity of isolated cells while showing minimal toxicity over four days.
A study published in the Journal of Dentistry found that patients with unexplained brain abscesses were three times more likely to have oral bacteria present. The researchers also discovered significantly higher counts of Streptococcus anginosus, a bacterium linked to dental abscesses and infections in internal organs.
Researchers aim to understand how school-based sealant programs affect children's teeth in middle school, building on previous studies showing effectiveness in elementary schools. The goal is to estimate the impact of increasing middle-school-based sealant programs on children's oral health.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified the most common bacteria found in severe oral infections, shedding new light on the association between oral health and systemic diseases. The study found that certain bacterial infections can spread to other parts of the body, highlighting the importance of understanding the role of...
A recent study by Tufts University School of Dental Medicine found a significant association between vaping and an increased risk of developing cavities. The study analyzed data from over 13,000 patients and found that 79% of vaping patients were categorized as having high-caries risk, compared to 60% of the control group.
A survey of community-living people with spinal cord injury revealed lower-than-recommended healthcare utilization rates for primary care, dental, and optical services. Demographic, socioeconomic, and injury-related factors contributed to disparities in healthcare access.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine estimates the economic burden of acute firearm injuries at a Level I Trauma Center in New Orleans, resulting in a net loss of $20.3 million over four years. The study highlights the significant financial impact of gun violence on healthcare systems and society.
The $2.4 million grant will provide direct training for new community health workers in Lubbock and throughout the state through registered apprenticeship programs and job placements. The program aims to increase access to healthcare and address public health needs for underserved communities.
Researchers discovered that cross-kingdom assemblages of bacteria and fungi can form superorganisms that colonize teeth, causing extensive tooth decay. These superorganisms exhibit enhanced surface adhesion, increased mechanical and antimicrobial tolerance, and unique mobility, moving at speeds similar to fibroblasts.
A study conducted at the University of Zurich has identified a key gene network responsible for severe tooth enamel defects. The researchers found that mutations in the Adam10 molecule lead to disorganization of ameloblasts and severe defects in both structure and mineral composition of enamel.
A new study led by NYU researchers has developed a topical gel that targets the succinate receptor to suppress inflammation, reduce bacterial imbalance, and prevent bone loss. The treatment has shown promise in reducing gum disease symptoms, including inflammation and tooth loss.
Researchers at the Regenstrief Institute have co-developed a new brief screening tool to measure patient-reported symptoms of TMD. The TMD-7 scale will help clinicians manage debilitating symptoms associated with the condition, which is often misunderstood and undertreated.
A new analysis found that increased Medicaid dental payment policies were associated with modest improvements in children's dental visits. The study also showed a link between the payment rates and better oral health outcomes for kids.
A new study by Trinity College Dublin researchers shows that water fluoridation has the lowest environmental impact among community-level caries prevention programmes, offering a sustainable solution to prevent dental decay. The study also highlights its cost-effectiveness and ability to reduce disability-adjusted life years.
Researchers led by Osaka University found that Fusobacterium nucleatum produces polyamines through metabolic cross-feeding, creating favorable conditions for periodontal pathogens to grow and spread. This integration of a metabolic network within the oral microbiome may promote the development of periodontitis.
A new study from the University of Sheffield suggests that giving antibiotics to those at high risk of developing a life-threatening heart infection significantly reduces their risk. Current UK guidelines against routine use of antibiotics for these patients may be putting them at unnecessary extra risk.
A new University of Rochester study compares two groups of patients with dental extractions, finding that a combination of non-opioid pain medications and gabapentin can minimize or eliminate opioids for dental pain. The results show promise for reducing opioid use during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Researchers at Penn Dental Medicine have developed a microrobotics system to access the root canal with controlled precision, treating and disrupting biofilms. The technology enables diagnostic and therapeutic applications, allowing for personalized treatment plans.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have developed a hands-free system that uses shapeshifting microrobots to brush, floss and treat teeth. The microrobots use magnetic fields to conform to different shapes and release antimicrobials to kill oral bacteria.
A new study reveals that acids in sugar-free beverages can erode tooth enamel, posing a risk to dental health. Flavored sparkling waters also showed signs of erosion, although less than sugar-containing and sugar-free sodas.