Researchers at UIC's Brodie Laboratory have successfully developed a technique to reattach teeth using stem cells, which could lead to a major advance in the battle against gum disease. The new strategy involves using periodontal ligament stem cells to form new fibrous attachments between the tooth and bone.
A recent study published in the Journal of Dental Research has identified genetic variations in taste pathway genes as predictors of tooth decay. The researchers found associations between TAS2R38 and TAS1R2 genes and caries risk or protection.
A new method, developed by Prof. Herzl Chai at Tel Aviv University, measures the size of chips in tooth fossils to determine the types of foods early humans consumed. The study found that larger chips indicate harder foods like nuts and seeds.
According to a study published in JADA, asthma and cavities are both prevalent childhood diseases in the US. However, researchers found little evidence suggesting that asthma causes tooth decay, with some studies showing children with asthma having fewer cavities.
A new study reveals that mesenchymal stromal cells from wisdom teeth can be reprogrammed into stem cells, offering a potential source of treatment for patients. The cells displayed varying degrees of robustness and proliferated up to 100 times more efficiently than typical skin-cell-derived iPS cells.
Researchers have used a tuatara's 3D computer model to understand how its jaw joints and muscles work together to prevent tooth damage. The study suggests that humans could benefit from a similar feedback system to reduce the risk of dental implant failures.
A review article debunks common dental myths, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet in preventing tooth decay, osteoporosis, and gum disease. Carole Palmer, a professor at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, outlines how nutrition affects oral health in children, teenagers, expectant mothers, adults, and elders.
Scientists have developed a multilayered, nano-sized film containing alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone to regenerate dental pulp, potentially revitalizing damaged teeth and reducing the need for root canal procedures. The film has anti-inflammatory properties and increased the number of fibroblasts in dental pulp.
A study published in Forensic Science International reveals that a person's dental patterns can be used as proof of their identity with the same degree of reliability as DNA testing. The researchers analyzed over 3,000 people and found variability values comparable to mitochondrial DNA.
A study analyzing ancient teeth found that it's possible to correctly identify species with a success rate ranging from 60% to 80%. Computer simulation was used to observe the effects of environmental changes on morphology of the teeth. The research suggests that the common ancestor of Neanderthals and Homo sapiens may still be unknown.
A new study found that preschool children with tooth decay are more likely to be overweight or obese than the general population. The study also discovered that both normal-weight and overweight children consume excessive calories, regardless of their weight status.
Researchers found tooth marks on bones from large dinosaurs and a small marsupial, dated around 75 million years ago. The marks were likely made by ancient mammals, such as multituberculates, which gnawed on the bones for minerals.
A new study by Case Western Reserve University researchers found that leaded gasoline was the predominant source of lead exposure for African-American children in Cleveland during the latter half of the 20th century. The study used dental records and other data to show that lead levels in teeth increased dramatically during this period...
Researchers identify 66 proteins in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), a potential early test for gum disease, and uncover antibacterial substances involved in fighting infection.
A new technique developed by Dr. Jeremy Mao and his team can orchestrate stem cells to migrate to a three-dimensional scaffold infused with growth factor, holding the potential to yield an anatomically correct tooth in nine weeks once implanted. This approach avoids the need for harvested stem cell lines or creating environments outsid...
Scientists have developed a new method to directly measure body temperatures of extinct vertebrates, revolutionizing our understanding of ancient environments. The 'clumped-isotope' paleothermometer method analyzes fossilized teeth and bones to determine temperature ranges during the animals' lifetimes.
Researchers have found a way to estimate a victim's age at death using their teeth, which can help identify them among multiple possible matches. By analyzing the levels of carbon-14 in tooth enamel, scientists can calculate the birth date and year of death.
Providing oral health education to mothers and families is essential for teaching children healthy habits and preventing early childhood tooth decay. A general dentist can provide families with oral health literature designed to educate both the parent and child, promoting a positive self-image and improving their quality of life.
Pitt Dental School researchers discovered a link between genetic variations and increased rates of tooth decay and aggressive periodontitis. The study found that individuals with specific polymorphisms in the DEFB1 gene had higher DMFT and DMFS scores, indicating a higher risk of developing these conditions.
A recent study published in the Academy of General Dentistry's peer-reviewed journal found that drinking fluoridated tap water can significantly reduce cavities and promote remineralization. The controlled addition of fluoride to public water supplies is considered a cost-effective way to prevent tooth decay.
A team led by Dr. Lee Berger and Darryl de Ruiter of Texas A&M University discovered two well-preserved skeletons in South Africa, believed to be between 1.78 and 1.95 million years old. The fossils are thought to be a direct ancestor of Homo, with human-like skulls but smaller bodies.
Dr. Bromage's research on human evolution, growth, development, and life history has significantly advanced the field. He discovered a new biological clock controlling metabolic functions and its impact on life span.
Researchers found stress and poor coping mechanisms are common among people who grind their teeth at night. Stress has been implicated in the development of sleep bruxism, which can lead to tooth wear, sensitivity, and muscle pain.
A Pitt-led study examining 348 burial urns reveals that around a fifth of the children were prenatal at death, contradicting claims of systematic infant sacrifice. The research suggests young Carthaginian children were cremated and interred in ceremonial urns regardless of cause of death.
The study found that tooth enamel defects in ancient humans were associated with shortened lifespans, suggesting a link between early life stress and adult diseases. The research supports the Barker hypothesis, which proposes that many adult diseases originate during fetal development and early childhood.
Researchers found that firing low temperature plasma beams at dentin reduced the amount of dental bacteria by up to 10,000-fold. The technology could be used to remove infected tissue in tooth cavities, replacing conventional drilling methods.
A 30,000-year-old child's teeth found in Portugal provide insight into the evolution of modern humans and their relationship with Neanderthals. The analysis reveals that early modern humans had a different dental anatomy compared to recent humans, with greater volumes of dentin and pulp but less enamel.
Researchers discovered that longer proline repeats contract protein bubbles, helping to form longer enamel crystals. This finding could lead to new ways to engineer tooth enamel.
A new study in Journal of the American Chemical Society explains how sea urchins form hard, complex structures from calcium carbonate. The resulting calcite crystal is tough enough to grind away limestone or sandstone.
Research suggests that commercially marketed raisin bran cereal causes significantly higher levels of acid in dental plaque than plain bran flakes or unsweetened raisins. Conversely, unsweetened raisins do not increase plaque acidity when added to bran flakes.
Ape teeth are shaped to handle scarce food resources during stressful times. The study found that gorillas have broader back teeth for chewing leaves and orangutans have thicker enamel for cracking seeds. Conservation efforts must also protect fallback foods sources, such as forest areas where fruits grow.
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.
Researchers at NIST and University of Konstanz create a frequency comb that can be visually observed, allowing for precise measurement of visible light frequencies. The new comb has approximately 50,000 distinct 'teeth' separated enough to be seen with the naked eye, enabling applications in astronomy, communications, and other fields.
A new Swedish study reveals that exposure to alkaline substances can damage teeth by destroying organic content and leaving enamel more vulnerable. The study found that high pH values can cause flaked enamel, markedly increasing the risk of caries and other dental issues.
A study by Prof. Herzl Chai and colleagues reveals that teeth's wavy hierarchy and micro-cracking mechanism can inspire stronger composites for planes and aerospace engineering. Dental specialists can also use the research to create smarter crowns with improved durability.
Researchers developed a non-destructive way to measure the elasticity of human teeth using lasers, enabling early detection of oral health issues. The new method can help predict emerging dental problems like tooth decay and cavities.
An international team of scientists has discovered an extinct rodent species, Eomyops noeliae, based on fossil tooth remains found in Alborache, Valencia. The new species provides valuable evolutionary and paleoenvironmental information related to this rodent.
Daily consumption of acidic beverages can lead to demineralization of hard dental tissues, causing tooth structure to wear away. To manage erosion, identify the culprit source, understand its effects on teeth, and stop or reduce consumption. Regular dental check-ups twice a year can help maintain healthy teeth.
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 ...
Dry mouth, caused by decreased salivary function, affects one in four Americans and is linked to over 400 prescription and non-prescription drugs. Patients may experience symptoms like constant thirst, difficulty eating or speaking, and increased tooth decay risk.
Research suggests that diets high in fermentable carbohydrates, such as sugar and starch, can lead to dental decay and contribute to chronic systemic diseases. A diet low in these carbohydrates may improve cardiovascular markers and reduce body fat. Dental problems can serve as an early warning sign for dietary imbalances.
Periodontal disease has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, with as many as 75% of adults in the US affected by periodontal disease. The study suggests that addressing oral/body inflammatory connection can improve overall health and reduce CVD risks.
Dental CAD/CAM technology enables dentists to create porcelain restorations efficiently, eliminating multiple visits. This technology minimizes stress and strain on patients, saving them precious time and money.
A recent study found that xylitol syrup can effectively prevent tooth decay in primary teeth of toddlers. The study involved 94 children aged 9-15 months and showed a significant reduction in decayed teeth among those receiving xylitol syrup, with up to 70% prevention rate.
Researchers at the Eastman Institute found that acidic fruit juices like orange juice decrease tooth enamel hardness by up to 84%. Whitening products have no significant effect on enamel hardness. Poor oral hygiene and frequent consumption of acidic drinks can lead to severe tooth erosion.
Researchers developed a biologically-inspired robot, the Chewing Robot, to study dental wear formation on human teeth. The robot replicates natural bite forces and movements, allowing for improved testing of new dental materials.
Researchers have identified the largest carnivorous dinosaur tooth in Spain, measuring 9.83cm, and attributed it to the Allosauroidea clade. The tooth's features provide key information about its former owner, a large predatory theropod that likely belonged to the same group as Turiasaurus riodevensis.
Researchers at USC School of Dentistry and Viterbi School of Engineering developed a non-thermal plasma dental probe that destroys bacterial colonies and disinfects hard-to-reach areas. The tool uses pulsed power to create a room temperature plasma with antibacterial properties.
Dr. Xu's research aims to develop novel dental materials that release fluoride, inhibit bacterial growth, and promote bioactivity, potentially reducing secondary cavities and improving oral health outcomes. The project has the potential to impact high-risk populations, such as children, the elderly, and those with compromised oral health.
Researchers discovered that the teeth contain crystals of magnesium calcite, which are smaller, harder and denser than those of pure calcite. The unique arrangement of these crystals in two different arrays allows them to be self-sharpening as they wear down.
After 75 years, the disappearance of Everett Ruess has been solved using forensic and DNA evidence. The remains were identified as a male matching Ruess's age and stature through facial reconstruction and mitochondrial DNA analysis.
A new study by OHSU School of Dentistry found that patients with self-ligating orthodontic brackets retained significantly fewer oral bacteria in plaque compared to those with elastomeric brackets. The researchers also developed a rapid and reliable method for quantifying oral bacteria using ATP-driven bioluminescence.
A new study from Ohio State University found that home tooth bleaching products reduce enamel hardness by 1.2-2 nanometers, affecting its ability to bounce back after force. Researchers suggest reformulating products to minimize side effects.
A recent study by NYU researchers found that sports drinks can cause tooth erosion and hypersensitivity due to high levels of citric acid. The condition affects one in 15 Americans and can lead to severe tooth damage if left untreated.
Researchers found that drinking white wine can lead to darker tooth stains due to acids creating rough spots and grooves. Red wine still causes more severe staining than white wine, but a whitening toothpaste can help prevent both types of stains.
A University of Florida study has resolved a long-standing debate in shark paleontology by concluding that modern great whites evolved from the broad-toothed mako shark. The preserved fossil, dating back 4-5 million years, features a complete jaw with intact teeth and vertebrae.
Research reviews scientific evidence on tooth decay, concluding that good oral hygiene and fluoride toothpaste practices override the effects of food alone. Lifestyle factors such as regular brushing and dental health education are essential in preventing tooth decay.
Researchers at Oregon State University have identified the gene Ctip2 as controlling tooth enamel production, a significant step towards repairing damaged enamel and preventing cavities. This discovery could lead to new approaches in dental health, including using tooth stem cells to stimulate enamel growth.
Researchers are using stable isotope analysis to reconstruct the past lives of hominids, revealing their diets and environments. The study of Paranthropus robustus suggests a diverse diet that includes hard foods like nuts, as well as sedges, grasses, seeds, and possibly animal foods.
Research shows that inhibiting MMP enzymes slows down dental filling deterioration, preventing bacteria entry and decay. Chlorhexidine use can rapidly inhibit MMP activity, offering a practical solution for improved dental care.