Genes that determine tooth shape identified
Researchers identified genes that impact tooth development and variation among ethnic groups. They found associations with tooth dimensions on genes inherited from Neanderthals and other genetic variants.
Dentistry
Articles tagged with Dentistry
Photodynamic therapy with annatto colorant found to be effective against bad breath
A study published in PLOS ONE found that antimicrobial photodynamic therapy using annatto colorant was effective in treating halitosis in mouth-breathing children. The researchers used a LED light source to target the annatto, which generated reactive oxygen species that killed bacteria on the tongue, leading to improved oral health.
Journal of Dental Research publishes study analyzing the worldwide economic effects of oral health conditions
A recent study by IADR and AADOCR estimates the global economic impacts of oral health conditions in 2019, revealing a substantial burden on individuals and society.
SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateNov 13, 2024
Survey: Kentucky children’s dental decay rates surpass national average
The University of Kentucky survey found significantly higher dental decay rates for Kentucky children ages 2-5 compared to the national average. Demographic and geographic factors such as region, age, facility type, and rural location influenced tooth decay rates among the children screened.
Water fluoridation less effective now than in past
A recent Cochrane review has found that the dental health benefits of adding fluoride to drinking water may be smaller now than before fluoride toothpaste was widely available. The review analyzed data from over 2,900 children in the UK and Australia, estimating a slight reduction in tooth decay, but with significant uncertainty.
Immunotherapy for gum disease? Study in mice shows promise
A new study published in PNAS suggests that delivering microparticles containing CCL2 directly to the gums can inhibit bone loss and speed up bone repair in a mouse model of periodontal disease. The therapy modulates the immune response, shifting macrophages from inflammatory M1 type to anti-inflammatory M2 type.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2024
Individuals with complications of diabetes are at higher risk of gum disease, Danish study finds
A Danish study published in The Journal of Dental Research found that individuals with diabetes complications are at higher risk of gum disease. Periodontitis was more common among those with microvascular complications such as retinopathy and neuropathy.
A new data biorepository at UF may help move the needle on pain
Researchers at UF are creating a data biorepository to explore pain pathways and create custom treatments. They're collecting and analyzing human tissue samples and using AI to map and understand the complex relationship between neurons and pain.
Shedding light on how oral bacteria can aggravate rheumatoid arthritis
A recent study has revealed that oral bacteria, specifically Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, can exacerbate rheumatoid arthritis. The study found that the infection led to increased inflammation and joint damage in animal models.
SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalInternational Journal of Oral Science·DateSep 5, 2024
From cavities to sleep apnea: dentists can assume new role in saving lives
Rutgers researchers suggest dentists play a crucial role in identifying and addressing sleep disorders, citing signs such as tooth grinding, tongue scalloping, or patients dozing off. With up to 80% accuracy, dental clinicians can identify at-risk patients with comprehensive care and prevent serious health complications.
SourceRutgers University·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 3, 2024
School of Dentistry researchers develop innovative sleep apnea model to find answers to chronic pain
A study published in Science Signaling explains the mechanism behind persistent pain related to obstructive sleep apnea. The researchers created a chronic intermittent hypoxia environment in mice and observed an increase in cytokines, which cause sensitivity in nociceptors producing prolonged pain sensitivity.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalScience Signaling·DateAug 29, 2024
'Screaming Woman' mummy may have died in agony 3,500 years ago
Researchers found the woman was embalmed with costly imported ingredients, contradicting traditional beliefs about mummification. The study also revealed she suffered from arthritis and had a unique facial expression that may be attributed to a cadaveric spasm caused by intense pain.
Children living in deprived areas are three times more likely to need dental extractions in hospital
A study published in BMJ Public Health found that children living in deprived areas have a three times higher risk of needing dental extractions under general anaesthesia. This highlights the need for targeted interventions and improved access to preventive dental services to address socioeconomic and ethnic inequalities in oral health.
SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBMJ Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 15, 2024
“Ugly” fossil places extinct saber-toothed cat on Texas coast
A 6-centimeter-wide fossil of a large cat species, Homotherium, was discovered on the Texas coast. The fossil provided key evidence for the cat's expansion across habitats in Africa, Eurasia, and the Americas.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalThe Anatomical Record·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 30, 2024
Bruxism is a recurring condition among people with post-traumatic stress disorder
A study published in Clinical Oral Investigations found that people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often experience bruxism, or teeth grinding. The researchers emphasized the importance of collaboration between dentists and psychiatrists to diagnose and treat these patients effectively.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalClinical Oral Investigations·DateMay 14, 2024
Fabrication of the PEKK-reinforced nano-HA composites inspired by the cortical bone
The study introduces pDA-nHA/PEKK composites with high strength and bioactivity, surpassing conventional melt blending techniques. The novel approach mimics the hierarchical structure of cortical bone, resulting in enhanced osteo-inductive abilities and mechanical strength.
SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalSupramolecular Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2024
Antibiotic prophylaxis and infective endocarditis incidence following invasive dental procedures
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that antibiotic prophylaxis is associated with a reduced risk of infective endocarditis in high-risk individuals following invasive dental procedures. However, its effectiveness in moderate-risk individuals is unclear.
‘Artificial tongue’ detects and inactivates common mouth bacteria
Researchers have designed a chemical sensor array, or an artificial tongue, that distinguishes dental bacteria and can inactivate them. The artificial tongue uses nanoscopic particles coated in DNA strands to detect the presence of bacteria, and can distinguish between healthy and diseased individuals with high accuracy.
Novel macrolide–DEL-1 axis drives bone regeneration in aging individuals
Researchers from Niigata University discovered a novel macrolide-DEL-1 axis that drives bone regeneration in aging individuals. The study found that macrolide-based molecules increase DEL-1 protein expression and promote new bone formation, suggesting a potential therapeutic avenue for periodontitis-induced bone loss in humans.
Brush biopsy enables early detection of oral cancer without surgery
A new diagnostic kit allows dentists to screen for oral squamous cell carcinoma with a simple brush biopsy, detecting genetic signals of the disease with over 90% accuracy. The non-invasive test is less complicated than surgical biopsies and can be performed in under a minute without numbing required.
Mothers with high levels of dental plaque are 8 times more likely to transfer Candida albicans, involved in tooth decay, to their babies, underlining the need for moms to keep their own teeth clean
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.
Toothbrushing tied to lower rates of pneumonia among hospitalized patients
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.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 18, 2023
Viking dentistry was surprisingly advanced
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 healthy mouth helps to maintain balanced metabolic profiles
A new study by an international team of researchers found that common oral infections and periodontal diseases are associated with inflammatory metabolic profiles. Oral infections were also predicted to cause future adverse changes in metabolic profiles.
Texas lab unlocks keys to alcohol withdrawal headache
A study by University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio researchers found that corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) activates immune cells in the dura membrane under the skull, leading to pain signals. This discovery may lead to the development of a small-molecule drug therapy to inhibit CRF and MrgprB2 interaction.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023
Regenstrief researcher receives $4.7 million NIH grant for training, Sjogren's disease research
A $4.7 million NIH grant will be used to train dental students and faculty, enhance mentoring, and conduct a clinical research study on Sjögren's disease. The grant aims to find an early biomarker for the chronic autoimmune disorder affecting four million Americans.
USDA grant will help MU researchers address opioid epidemic in rural Missouri
A three-year USDA grant will train healthcare and social workers in five high-risk rural Missouri counties to address childhood trauma and reduce opioid overdoses. The training covers topics such as ACEs, positive childhood experiences, and trauma-informed care.
Killer smile? An oral pathogen increases heart attack damage
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.
SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalInternational Journal of Oral Science·DateOct 19, 2023
Discovery of mechanism involved in dental inflammation paves way to therapies against bone loss
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.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Endodontics·DateOct 5, 2023
Mouthwash for dogs: water additive with pomegranate helps to keep canine teeth healthy
A study found that a water additive containing pomegranate extract can limit the formation of plaque and tartar in dogs after professional dental cleaning. The additive was shown to reduce plaque buildup by 47% and tartar by 24%, promoting healthy gums.
“Gates of Heaven” calcium channel drives oral cancer pain and growth
A new study finds that targeting the ORAI1 calcium channel may provide a promising approach to treating oral cancer. The study reveals that activating this channel causes an influx of calcium into cancer cells, leading to increased pain sensitivity.
With NIH grant, researchers will train dentists on managing patient behavior
A $450,000 NIH grant will support a training program for Arkansas dentists on evidence-based child behavioral-management skills. This initiative aims to enhance young patient compliance and reduce dental anxiety in children aged 2-10 years.
Stem-cell derived organoids secrete tooth enamel proteins
Researchers successfully created stem-cell derived organoids from human stem cells that secrete three essential enamel proteins. These proteins form a matrix that undergoes mineralization to create a hardened enamel structure. The breakthrough offers hope for developing novel treatments to repair and regenerate teeth.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023
Study explores the influence of social networks on oral health outcomes
The study found that network-level variables significantly improved model fit and displayed strong independent associations with oral health outcomes. Network proportion needing dental treatment was positively associated with current dental treatment needs, while exposure to reported dental visits decreased odds of no recent dental vis...
SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJDR Clinical & Translational Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2023
Red pill or blue pill? The critical decision to control the superbugs
A study published in the Journal of Hospital Infection reveals that pharmacist-led multi-faceted interventions can optimize antimicrobial prescriptions in dental clinics, reducing the incidence of serious infectious diseases. The intervention increased penicillin usage and decreased the use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials.
Mid-life structural jawbone changes may signal women’s subsequent height loss
Research in the BMJ Open journal suggests that mid-life structural changes to the jawbone may signal subsequent height loss in women. The study, conducted on a cohort of women in Gothenburg, Sweden, found that severe cortical erosion and sparse trabeculation in the jawbone predicted significant bone shrinkage over time.
Forensic bitemark analysis for court trials is not supported by sufficient data and “is leading to wrongful convictions”
Bitemark analysis, commonly used in court trials, lacks scientific backing due to the uniqueness of human teeth on skin. A study of 26 people wrongfully convicted based on this evidence reveals a high rate of distortion, rendering it unreliable for identification purposes.
SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of the California Dental Association·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 23, 2023
Gustavo Andrés Monasterio Ocares named 2023 recipient of the IADR Osteology Foundation New Investigator Award in Oral Tissue Regeneration
Monasterio Ocares recognized for his research on oral tissue regeneration and intestinal disorders' impact on oral homeostasis. He receives funding to continue studying mechanisms of initiation and resolution of intestinal disorders in the mouth.
IADR announces 2023 recipients of the IADR Colgate Research Travel Awards
The International Association for Dental Research (IADR) recognized six recipients of the 2023 IADR Colgate Research Travel Awards, which encourage research in preventing oral diseases. The award recipients received travel stipends and commemorative plaques to present their work at the annual conference.
IADR names recipients of the 2023 IADR LION Dental Research Awards
The IADR LION Dental Research Award recognizes innovative research in basic dental science and applied research achievements that improve public dental health. The 2023 recipients were announced during the 101st General Session of IADR in Bogot , Colombia
Chenmin Yao named recipient of the 2023 IADR Toshio Nakao Fellowship
Chenmin Yao, a young researcher from Wuhan University, China, received the 2023 IADR Toshio Nakao Fellowship to support her training and experience in dental materials science. She has published nine papers in peer-reviewed international journals with high impact factors.
Domenick Zero named recipient of the 2023 IADR Distinguished Scientist William H. Bowen Research in Dental Caries Award
Domenick Zero, an Indiana University professor, received the William H. Bowen Research in Dental Caries Award for his groundbreaking research on caries prevention and early detection. His work has improved oral health through innovative methods and tools, shifting focus from invasive treatment to tooth preservation.
Richard Niederman named 2023 recipient of the IADR E.W. Borrow Memorial Award
Richard Niederman has dedicated his career to generating evidence for oral disease prevention and promotion. He pioneered large-scale school- and community-based oral health programs focusing on fluoride applications.
HKU Oral and Maxillofacial study shows internal fixation surgery linked with improvement in long jaw patients’ quality of life
A study led by Dr Mike YY Leung found that internal fixation surgery using titanium plates and screws (SSRO) improves patients' oral health-related quality of life faster than traditional IVRO. Patients who underwent SSRO had better physical and mental health-related QoL, with improvements starting as early as 2 weeks after surgery.
SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalClinical Oral Investigations·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 23, 2023
Researchers modify drug to enter cells and treat pain
A team of researchers at NYU College of Dentistry has successfully modified an existing anti-nausea drug to target the endosomes within cells, thereby providing a more prolonged analgesic effect. The modified netupitant showed improved pain-relieving properties compared to its original form and other drugs targeting similar receptors.
You’ve got some nerve
Researchers developed a new metric to analyze the relationship between nerve density and oral cancer progression. Normalized nerve density was found to be associated with poor survival rates for patients with tongue cancer, highlighting its potential as a tool for identifying aggressive tumors.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 16, 2023
Saturated fatty acids promote immune escape of oral cancers
A study published in Cell Reports found that saturated fatty acids promote the immune escape of oral cancers in mouse models. Obesity helps establish a type of tumor microenvironment that promotes tumor progression by suppressing STING-type-I interferon pathway and NLRC3.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 16, 2023
Background music reduced dental students’ stress and improved their performance
A pilot study at the University of Eastern Finland found that background music reduced dental students' stress levels and improved their performance during preclinical tooth preparation exercises. The music also increased motivation to learn and practice, while enhancing communication and quality of cavity preparation.
HKU Dentistry develops core technologies using generative AI in smart manufacturing of dental crowns
Researchers at HKU developed a novel smart manufacturing method for dental crowns using generative AI, producing personalised crowns with high accuracy that mimic natural teeth. The 3D-DCGAN algorithm improves the quality of design through internal competition between a generator and a discriminator.
Pushing frontiers through upcycling: eggshell waste for bone graft material
Researchers developed a method to convert eggshells into amorphous calcium phosphate particles, which were found to be safe, cell-friendly, and effective in promoting bone regeneration. The findings promise to create an eco-friendly alternative to commercialized xenograft materials.
SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalSmart Materials in Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2023
Novel antibiotic-delivery system to target aggressive gum infections in adolescents
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.
Diabetes and toothlessness together worsen cognitive decline
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.
Study reveals that soft gums are more prone to inflammation
A Tohoku University study found that soft gingiva is more likely to cause inflammation, hindering the development of collagen fibers. This discovery has implications for the development of advanced biomaterials and microdevices to control local inflammation.
HKU Dentistry invents new material to replace extracted human teeth for dental research
A research team developed a new dentine analogue material that can substitute extracted human teeth in laboratory-based mechanical and fatigue tests. The materials were tested for their mechanical strength, elastic modulus, indentation hardness, and fatigue behaviour, showing comparable results to those based on extracted human teeth.
Gum inflammation parallels novel “cytokine score”
Researchers at NYU College of Dentistry have developed a single score to describe the level of cytokines in saliva, which correlates with the severity of clinical gum inflammation. The study found that higher levels of cytokines in saliva match greater gum inflammation.
Novel technique distinguishes between types of oral bone lesion based on MRI scan image texture
Researchers used MRI scans and texture analysis to differentiate between two types of benign oral bone lesions, ameloblastomas and odontogenic keratocysts. The study found that certain pixel and voxel organizational parameters in the MRI images were statistically significant, enabling more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 15, 2023
School dental program prevents 80 percent of cavities with one-time, non-invasive treatment
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.
Sugar consumption and early interruption of breastfeeding are risk factors for dental caries in infancy
A Brazilian study found that early sugar consumption and interruption of breastfeeding are key factors contributing to dental caries in infants. Extended breastfeeding was shown to protect babies' teeth as long as they didn't receive sugary food, with the risk declining with falling sugar consumption.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCommunity Dentistry And Oral Epidemiology·DateFeb 7, 2023
Study compares pharmacologic treatments for managing tooth extraction pain
A recent study published in the Journal of Dental Research compared ten pharmacological interventions for managing tooth extraction pain in adults. The study found that NSAIDs with or without acetaminophen result in better pain-related outcomes than opioids with or without acetaminophen.
SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJan 30, 2023
Heavy smokers with severe periodontitis receive no benefit from treatment
A new study published in the Journal of Dental Research has found that heavy smokers with severe periodontitis do not receive any benefits from treatment. The study suggests that smoking cessation is crucial for effective treatment and may even worsen the disease during active treatment. The findings highlight the need to rethink pract...