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Mechanism regulating tooth shape formulation found

A recent study by researchers at the University of Helsinki has identified a key gene called ectodin that regulates tooth shape formation. The team found that mice lacking functional ectodin have abnormal teeth with broader cusps and extra teeth, highlighting the importance of ectodin in maintaining tooth development.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScience·DateSep 23, 2005

New technology shows our ancestors ate…everything!

Researchers used new software to analyze fossilized tooth surfaces, revealing that early humans like Australopithecus africanus ate tougher leaves and Paranthropus robustus ate harder foods. The study also showed unexpected variability in the samples, suggesting both species relied on less preferred foods during periods of scarcity.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2005

Quitting smoking could save your teeth, study shows

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that quitting smoking significantly improves gum health for smokers with chronic gum disease. Over a one-year period, one-fifth of the patients who quit smoking experienced improved gum health compared to those who continued to smoke.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal Of Clinical Periodontology·DateJul 18, 2005

3D animation gives evidence more bite

Forensic bite-mark matching has been criticized due to its fallibility and distortion problems. A new approach using 3D imaging has shown promise in improving accuracy, but with a 15% chance of incorrect matches. The technology could be useful in courtrooms for illustrating the likelihood of a match.

Bad teeth blamed on unhealthy adult lifestyle

A study by Newcastle University found that adult smokers are more likely to experience tooth loss. Adults from disadvantaged social backgrounds also suffered from oral health problems. The research suggests that public health interventions should target adults as well, in addition to children.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJun 24, 2004

Celebrities are root cause of rush to dentist

Research from Newcastle University and Australia finds young adults worried about their teeth due to celebrity beauty standards. The study, published in Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology, reveals younger generations are more likely to complain about dental problems than older adults.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalCommunity Dentistry And Oral Epidemiology·DateMay 18, 2004

Waiter, there's a shark in my soup

Researchers have developed a DNA-based test to accurately distinguish great white sharks from other species, even when only dried fins or meat are available. This new test will help conservationists and fisheries managers better regulate and protect great whites, a species that has declined by up to 79% in the northwestern Atlantic.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalConservation Genetics·DateJul 31, 2003

Experts bristle at toothbrush misuse

A recent study found that increasing brushing time and pressure beyond a certain point does not improve plaque removal, but may increase the risk of oral health issues. The researchers emphasize the importance of proper technique and accurate pressure application to avoid harm.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateJun 18, 2003

Tooth, heal thyself

Researchers at NIST have invented composites that can promote re-growth of natural tooth structures efficiently. These bioactive, biocompatible materials can be used to stimulate the repair of defective teeth, minimizing decay under orthodontic braces and potentially in root canal therapy.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPublic Administration Journal of Research·DateJun 10, 2003

Scientists discover unique source of stem cells

Researchers have identified a new source of stem cells in human teeth, known as SHED (Stem cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth), which can grow rapidly in culture and differentiate into specialized cells. This discovery may lead to breakthroughs in tooth repair, bone regeneration, and neural injury treatment.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 21, 2003

Tooth loss linked to increased stroke risk

A new study by the American Heart Association has found a significant link between tooth loss and an increased risk of ischemic stroke. Men with fewer than 25 teeth had a 57% higher risk of ischemic stroke compared to those with 25 or more teeth, suggesting that infection plays a role in stroke and heart disease.

UMass anthropologist investigates dental development and body size in primates

A UMass anthropologist has investigated the dental development of an extinct primate species, revealing that these early primates developed teeth rapidly to adapt to their environment. The study found that these ancient lemurs had highly developed teeth by birth, allowing them to survive on solid food shortly after birth.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2002

Coffee may help prevent cavities

New study suggests that coffee's antibacterial properties, particularly trigonelline, may reduce S. mutans colonization and prevent tooth decay. Roasted coffee samples showed higher inhibitory activity than green unroasted beans.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 6, 2002

Study: Dental sealants for children on Medicaid can reduce dental costs

A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that dental sealants can significantly reduce dental costs for children on Medicaid who are at high risk of dental problems. Researchers analyzed data from 15,438 North Carolina children and found that sealant treatments led to lower expenses for Medicaid in 1990 dollars,...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateNov 2, 2001

Many common drugs promote tooth decay

Studies found that medications like clonidine and propranolol can significantly increase the risk of tooth decay in individuals with dry mouth. The research suggests that antihistamines, antidepressants, and other medications can alter saliva composition, making it less effective at neutralizing acids and remineralizing teeth.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalCaries Research·DateMay 25, 2000

Researchers stalk 'sweet tooth' gene

Researchers at the Monell Chemical Senses Center have narrowed the search for a gene responsible for sweet preference in mice to a specific area of chromosome 4. This region is thought to be a likely candidate for a 'sweet taste gene' that affects both mouse and human perception of sweetness.