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Look ma, no mercury in fillings!

Researchers at Southwest Research Institute have created a new proof-of-concept dental restorative material made with zirconia nanoplatelets, which are super hard due to the arrangement of atoms in the material. The new fillings aim to replace amalgam, containing mercury, and offer improved durability and ease of use.

Healing power of aloe vera proves beneficial for teeth and gums, too

Recent research published in the Academy of General Dentistry's clinical journal revealed that aloe vera tooth gel is as effective as commercial toothpaste in controlling cavity-causing organisms. The study found that aloe vera tooth gel was more effective than some commercially popular brands, making it a great alternative for people ...

SourceAcademy of General Dentistry·JournalEuropean Journal of General Dentistry·DateJul 17, 2009

People are more suggestible under laughing gas

A new study at University College London found that nitrous oxide enhances imagination vividness and imaginary suggestibility in participants, which could lead to improved pain relief for dental patients. The study's findings suggest that combining laughing gas with instructions and suggestions might enhance the pain-relieving effect.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateJan 9, 2009

Oral health: Prevention is key

The Lancet's Editorial emphasizes the importance of oral health prevention in reducing dental decay and its consequences. Daily use of fluoride is identified as a cost-effective approach to prevent tooth decay, especially in low- and middle-income countries where access to dentists is limited.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 1, 2009

Building better bones and tissue in the lab

The University of Western Ontario has received $45.5 million in funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation to develop new methods for growing stronger lab-grown bones and tissue. This will help address conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and traumatic injuries, where current lab-grown materials lack sufficient strength.

Oral cancer patients could be diagnosed earlier

The majority of oral cancers are found late, causing high mortality rates, but early diagnosis improves survivability to 95% and reduces morbidity. Prosthodontists must change their practice paradigm by performing regular oral cancer screening examinations on all patients.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Prosthodontics·DateDec 10, 2008

Atchison receives Behavioral, Epidemiological and Health Services Research Award

Dr. Kathryn Atchison is being recognized for her outstanding achievements in dental public health and behavioral sciences, with over 70 peer-reviewed articles and a well-funded research program. She serves as Vice- Provost of Intellectual Property & Industrial Relations at UCLA and has held various leadership positions in the Ameri...

Amalgam fillings don't affect children's brain development, says study in ADA Journal

A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that dental amalgam fillings do not affect children's brain development or neurological status. The researchers studied 507 Portuguese children and found no differences between those who received amalgam and resin-based composite fillings.

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateJan 25, 2008

Whiplash may produce delayed jaw pain

Researchers found that whiplash trauma increases the risk of developing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) symptoms, which can be painful and affect daily life. In a study of 60 patients, 34% developed TMJ pain within a year after the accident, compared to 7% in uninjured controls.

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateAug 16, 2007