Dentistry News
Dentists Could Help Identify Patients at Risk for Cardiovascular Disease
January 2010 — A study conducted at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, has shown that dentists can be the first to identify patients at risk for developing a fatal cardiovascular disease and advise them to see their physicians.
Using a software program called HeartScore, the dentists involved in the study evaluated 200 men and women over the age of 45 without any known cardiovascular problems for associated risk factors, such as blood pressure, total cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Based on the results, the dentists found that approximately 12 men had a 10 percent chance of developing a fatal cardiovascular disease within the next 10 years and recommended they see their physicians. Subsequently, six of the 12 men were prescribed medication to lower their blood pressure. If left untreated, cardiovascular risk factors could lead to a heart attack or stroke.
New Multispectral Technology Used to Detect Oral Cancer
January 2010 — In terms of a five-year mortality rate, oral cancer continues to be the deadliest among several other cancers, such as cervical, breast and prostate cancers. However, a new multispectral – or multiple wavelength – technology from Trimira LLC enables dentists to immediately and accurately detect oral pre-cancer and cancer in patients, even if the patient is unaware of the symptoms.
Developed cooperatively by researchers from Rice University, the University of Texas and British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, the new “multispectral” optical system uses fluorescence and reflectance light waves to detect any abnormalities in the oral tissues that might not otherwise be biopsied. As a result, this noninvasive screening tool can help identify oral cancer while it is still treatable.
Protein Causing Migraine Pain May Also Cause Orofacial and Burning Mouth Pain
December 2009 — The protein that triggers migraine pain by causing the blood vessels in the brainstem to dilate and release inflammatory substances is being examined in order to relieve the pain associated with orofacial disorders. These include trigeminal neuropathies associated with burning mouth syndrome and incidences of electric shock-like pain in the lips, tongue and jaw. A professor at New York University College of Dentistry will investigate whether the molecule that blocks the protein calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) – which has shown promise for treating migraine pain – can help prevent orofacial inflammation and pain.
International Diabetes Foundation Issues New Oral Health Guidelines
December 2009 — The International Diabetes Foundation (IDF), an organization comprised of 200 national diabetes associations in 160 countries, issued new clinical guidelines emphasizing the importance of periodontal health for people with diabetes.
The new guidelines are consistent with recent studies suggesting that the management of periodontal disease can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes, as well as help those with diabetes control their blood sugar levels. Written in collaboration with the World Dental Federation, the IDF guidelines also include suggestions for clinical periodontal care and strongly encourage health professionals to perform annual examinations for underlying symptoms of periodontal disease, such as swollen or red gums.
Exposure to Alkaline Substances Could Damage Tooth Enamel
December 2009 — The detrimental effects of acid exposure to tooth enamel has long been accepted, but a recent study from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, also has shown that exposure to powerful alkaline substances can be just as damaging to tooth enamel. Alkaline substances that contain high pH levels destroy parts of the tooth's organic content, causing the enamel to be more susceptible to caries.
Exposure to the vapors from alkaline degreasers – which are found most commonly in the food and car care industries – can result in injured teeth, the study found. After extracted teeth were exposed to degreasers and other alkaline solutions, the enamel samples were studied and analyzed with a scanning electron microscope. The researchers found that the organic surface of the teeth – which is composed of protein, lipids and citrate – dissolved quickly. However, the main mineral component of enamel appeared to remain unchanged.
Alcohol and HPV Linked to Higher Oral Cancer Rates for Forty-Somethings
November 2009 — The rate of oral cancer for men and women in their 40s has increased more than 45 percent since 1975, according to researchers from the United Kingdom. Oral cancer is a preventable disease for which tobacco and alcohol use are the main risk factors. However, because cancers caused by smoking often take up to 30 years to develop, the higher rates of oral cancer among 40-somethings are thought to be due to increases in alcohol consumption, diets low in fruit and vegetables, and the sexually transmitted disease called human papillomavirus (HPV).
Chronic Periodontitis a Risk Factor for Head and Neck Cancer
November 2009 — Dental and cancer researchers have discovered that chronic periodontitis, a form of gum disease, is a risk factor for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. This finding underscores the need to continue efforts to prevent periodontitis, see your dentist for treatment if you already have it and maintain proper oral hygiene.
Chronic periodontitis is characterized by progressive bone and soft tissue attachment loss around the teeth. When studying the role of chronic periodontitis on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma – as well as on specific cancers of the oral cavity (mouth), oropharynx (part of the throat below the soft palate) and larynx (voice box) – the scientists used radiographic measurements of bone loss to assess periodontitis.
In the 463 patients studied, the results showed that chronic periodontitis might represent a clinical high-risk factor for head and neck cancer. The greatest association was shown in the mouth, followed by the throat and voice box, respectively.
Gene Involved in Gum Disease, Osteoporosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis Discovered
November 2009 — A gene called interferon regulator factor-8 (IRF-8) has been identified by scientists as playing a role in the development of diseases such as periodontitis (gum disease), rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. Researchers from the Hospital for Special Surgery, the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, the National Institutes of Health and other institutions discovered that when the gene produces less IRF-8 protein, the production of cells called osteoclasts – which are responsible for breaking down bone, creating cavities and canals – increases. Further research and understanding into this gene is expected to help identify new therapeutic interventions for the treatment of periodontitis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis.
Use of Probiotics May Contribute to Better Oral Health
August 2009 — A new oral health lozenge containing the probiotics S. salivarius and B. coagulans called Advanced Oral Hygiene was recently introduced by Life Extension. These two strains of “beneficial bacteria” have been shown to help maintain healthy teeth and gums by populating the mouth with beneficial bacteria that protect against the harmful bacteria found in dental plaque. When used once or twice daily after brushing, the Advanced Oral Hygiene lozenge works immediately to restore a healthy balance to the mouth.
Mercury in Dental Fillings is Not Harmful
August 2009 — The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently stated that the levels of mercury in dental amalgam fillings are not hazardous to patients. However, the FDA did acknowledge that exposure to higher levels of mercury could result in adverse health effects.
Dental amalgam is the common silver-looking filling material made from a combination of metal alloys such as silver, copper and tin, as well as mercury. It has been used by dentists for decades to fill cavities because it is durable and relatively inexpensive. Controversy and concern over the potential risk of mercury-related neurotoxic effects has spurred an ongoing debate about the material's continued use in dentistry.
While the FDA said amalgam fillings are not hazardous to patients, the agency did issue a new regulation for amalgam that now places the material in the same category as a Class II device. Materials in this category are subject to special FDA safety and effectiveness controls designed to oversee what should go in it, how the product is labeled and how its performance is tested. This is the same category as gold and tooth-colored composite fillings.
New Treatment for Receding Gums Offers Painless Alternative
July 2009 — A new tissue regeneration procedure developed at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine reduces the pain and recovery time of gum grafting surgery. Gum grafting surgery is often needed to cover tooth roots when the gums have receded. Instead of using tissue from the roof of the mouth, the Tufts tissue regeneration procedure consists of a concentrated platelet gel that is applied to a collagen membrane as the graft.
The removal of tissue from the roof of the mouth associated with traditional grafting procedures is a major contributor to patient discomfort, bleeding, pain and swelling. These symptoms are common complications experienced after such a procedure. However, the Tuft platelet concentrate graft has been shown in studies to produce better esthetics and improved patient satisfaction compared to traditional grafts. It also has been successful in properly covering the tooth root.
Scientists Hope Nanotechnology Will Enhance the Longevity of Dental Fillings, if Not Prevent Them
July 2009 — Although tooth-colored fillings are more pleasing than silver fillings, the bond between the white filling material and tooth ages and degrades quickly. However, according to a researcher from the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry, a new nanotechnology technique will extend the endurance and long-term durability of composite dental fillings, as well as possibly prevent the need for a filling at all.
A grant exceeding $250,000 from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research is funding research into a new nanotechnology process of growing very small, mineral-rich crystals and guiding them into the demineralized gaps between the collagen fibers (hybrid layer) of the dentin of a tooth. Also called guided tissue remineralization, this new process is based on how crystals – called hydroxyapatite – bond when proteins and minerals interact inside the tooth. The crystals should work to keep the minerals within the hybrid layer, essentially preventing degrading. The objective is for the crystals to be applied by the dentist in such a way that the material repairs the cavity on its own, without the need for a filling.
First-ever All-Natural Teething Gel Introduced
July 2009 — Hyland's Inc., a provider of over-the-counter homeopathic medicines, recently announced the availability of its new and improved Hyland's Teething Gel. The first-ever all-natural teething gel is paraben-free and does not contain benzocaine, sugar, dyes, artificial flavoring or coloring agents.
Hyland's Teething Gel works continuously to provide temporary relief to infants suffering from restlessness and irritability due to teething. The all-natural formula also contains chamomile, an effective ingredient for soothing irritability. Hyland's all-natural Teething Gel is supplied in 0.5 ounce tubes that contain 50 percent more gel.
New Book Helps Prepare for Child’s First Dental Visit
July 2009 — In the United States, dental disease is the most prevalent chronic disease affecting children. Each year, children miss millions of school hours because of poor dental health. Dr. J. Brant Darby's new book, “How to Successfully Prepare for Your Child's First Dental Visit,” focuses on prevention and the importance of a child's first dental visit, as well as ways to help prepare for it. The book also includes artwork and pictures created by children, as well as other important information about aspects of children's dental health care.
The book covers checklists, selecting the right dentist, preparation for the first visit and questions to ask. “How to Successfully Prepare for Your Child's First Dental Visit” also provides valuable insights for parents to help them facilitate their children's oral care.
First Placental Membrane Used to Treat Gingival Recession
July 2009 — Amnionic tissue is being used as an aid in the treatment of gingival recession by serving as a wound covering. In the United States alone, one out of every four adults experiences gingival recession. Introduced by Snoasis Medical, Inc., BioCover is the first-ever membrane composed of amnion – the innermost lining of the placenta surrounding the unborn baby – used for this purpose.
BioCover differs from other treatments currently available because it is dehydrated and does not require hydration before use. As a result, it naturally adheres to the affected site, providing a faster and more convenient treatment. The pain and recovery time experienced by the patient after surgery is significantly reduced.
Amnion tissue is donated by mothers who undergo cesarean surgery and has been used by ophthalmologists (eye surgeons) for many years. Amnion tissue is processed and procured according to standards issued by the United States Food and Drug Administration and the American Association of Tissue Banks.
Teeth Used As Artificial Corneas to Restore Sight
July 2009 — Teeth. We use them to chew, grind and mush our food, and even rip open or tear packages. Since the 1960s in Italy, they also have been used to see. A procedure called Osteo-Odonto-Keratoprosthesis (OOKP) that uses a person's tooth is increasingly being used to bring sight to people who've been blinded by an accident, illness or other condition.
OOKP involves creating an artificial cornea in a person's eye using one of their teeth and the surrounding bone for support. A synthetic (plastic) lens is mounted on the tooth-bone complex, which is then stabilized by a graft taken from mucus tissue from the mouth along the inside of the cheek. The objective of OOKP is to restore sight to people blinded by Stevens-Johnsons Syndrome, chemical burns (or related burn injury), multiple failed corneal grafts and other eye problems or conditions.
Evidence of Association Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Periodontitis Strengthened
June 2009 — Researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine and University Hospitals of Cleveland recently observed an association between rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis, citing the relief of joint pain symptoms that patients experienced after periodontal treatment. Both conditions are diseases that lead to the destruction of hard and soft tissues, as a result of the toxins from bacterial infections.
Gum disease usually is prevalent among rheumatoid arthritis patients. The scientists found that after being treated for gum disease, people with rheumatoid arthritis demonstrated improvements in their symptoms. However, according to international researchers who met in Copenhagen, Denmark, more studies are needed among rheumatologists and periodontists in order to understand the links between periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Periodontists and Cardiologists Acknowledge Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease
June 2009 — A consensus paper on the relationship between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and periodontal (gum) disease provides guidance for doctors and dentists treating patients living with (or at risk for) either disease.
As a result of the paper, which is being published concurrently in online versions of The American Journal of Cardiology and the Journal of Periodontology, cardiologists may now examine a patient's mouth, while periodontists may begin asking patients questions about their heart health and family history of heart disease.
CVD is the leading cause of death in the United States and a major public health issue that contributes to 2,400 deaths each day. Periodontal disease – a chronic inflammatory disease that destroys the bone and tissues that support the teeth – affects nearly 75 percent of Americans and is the major cause of tooth loss.
Research suggests that managing one disease may reduce the risk for the other. Therefore, the consensus includes specific clinical recommendations for dentists and doctors to follow.
For example, patients with periodontitis and one known major atherosclerotic CVD risk factor – such as smoking or an immediate family member with CVD – should consider a medical evaluation if they haven't had one within the past 12 months.
Conversely, patients with atherosclerotic CVD who have signs or symptoms of gingival disease, significant tooth loss, and elevated, unexplained C-reactive protein levels, should consider a periodontal evaluation.
If you have been diagnosed with CVD or periodontal disease and are concerned that you have risk factors for the other, see your doctor or dentist for an evaluation.
Botox Used Off-Label for TMJ Treatment
May 2009 — Once reserved for lessening the tell-tale signs of aging, such as annoying wrinkles and frown lines, Botox injections are being used more frequently as “off label” treatments for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Scientific studies have shown that patients who received the injections experienced significant improvements in pain, function, ability to open their mouth and levels of tenderness to palpation.
Botox is injected into the temporalis, medial pterygoid (deep jaw muscle) and masseter muscles that together move the jaw. Botox helps lessen the strain of TMD by blocking nerve signals that cause uncontrollable muscle movements, essentially relaxing the muscles. Botox injections take only 10 to 15 minutes and remain effective for anywhere between two and six months.
Costs for Botox TMD treatment vary based on geographic location and severity of the condition (meaning, how much Botox is needed). Treatment is usually charged on a per-visit basis. Most dental insurance companies do not cover Botox TMD treatments because they are “off label,” optional treatments, so these costs most likely will be out of pocket expenses.
Study Shows White Wine Contributes to Tooth Staining
April 2009 — Preventing tooth discoloration is important to the long-term appearance of your smile. Many beverages make your teeth more susceptible to stains, and it's long been known that red wine is among the worst culprits. But white wine?
According to researchers at New York University College of Dentistry, drinking white wine also leaves the surfaces of teeth susceptible to staining from other beverages, such as tea. The acids in wine (red or white) are implicated in the staining process and believed to allow chemicals in other colored beverages to enter into the tooth, darkening its color.
The NYU researchers presented their findings at the annual meeting of the International Association for Dental Research, held recently in Miami, Florida. In their study, they immersed bovine (cow) teeth in one of three solutions (red wine, white wine or water) for three minutes and electronically evaluated their color. Then, the teeth were exposed to staining agents. The teeth immersed in the red wine had more visible stains than the teeth immersed in white wine, but both red and white wine groups showed greater staining than the teeth that were immersed in water.
Omega-3s Are Good for Your Heart; Soon They May Be Good for Your Smile!
April 2009 — For years you've heard about the heart-healthy benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil. Scientists who recently presented at the International Association for Dental Research now have evidence to suggest that certain Omega-3 fatty acid products – called Resolvins – have the potential to resolve gum tissue inflammation and reverse damage caused by gum disease (periodontal disease).
Resolvins are recently discovered biologic agents with anti-inflammatory properties that are derived from the Omega-3 fatty acids called eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). In experiments focused on periodontitis and periodontal disease, researchers found that topical application of a Resolvin containing compound resulted in the complete resolution of inflammation and regeneration of bone.
This research suggests the future potential for oral health professionals to use Resolvins in the treatment of periodontal inflammation and for restoring damaged tissues.
A Sports Drink a Day May Lead to Tooth Damage
April 2009 — Scientists from New York University College of Dentistry recently confirmed that prolonged consumption of popular sports drinks can damage tooth enamel and soften the underlying dentin, leaving teeth weak and prone to tooth sensitivity. While sports drinks provide a burst of energy, excessive consumption was shown to cause erosive tooth wear, a condition in which acids destroy the tooth's smooth, outermost layer (enamel) and seep underneath into the bonelike material (dentin).
The NYU scientists examined the effects of five sports drinks by soaking bovine (cow) teeth in one of each for 90 minutes to simulate the effects of drinking them throughout the day. The results showed that prolonged contact with the sports drinks caused acid wear and exposure of the dentin layer of the teeth. In addition, two well-known sports drinks also caused significant tooth staining.
Probiotics Available for Your Mouth with GUM PerioBalance
March 2009 — The proper balance of bacteria in the mouth is crucial for optimal oral health, just as it is for overall health. Sunstar's GUM PerioBalance, a daily dental probiotic supplement now available in a mint flavored lozenge, was created specifically for oral health. It helps to maintain a balanced oral environment that is fundamental for healthy teeth and gums.
GUM PerioBalance is composed of Prodentis, a unique blend of naturally occurring probiotics. This patented key ingredient is a beneficial natural agent that helps to balance the oral environment by providing long-lasting, sustained protection against bacteria that contribute to poor oral health.
GUM PerioBalance is specifically designed to promote healthy teeth and gums, reduce plaque, and fight bad breath. In clinical research, positive changes in gum health were noted during the first 28 days of use. This daily dental probiotic supplement is available at Bartell Drugs, drugstore.com, and periobalance.com.
Twilight Star Used Opalescence Tooth Whitening Kit While Filming Hit Movie
January 2009 — “Twilight” film star Taylor Lautner (“Jacob Black”) showed off his recently whitened smile during Kari Feinstein's 2009 Style Lounge in Beverly Hills, California. Taylor's dentist prescribed Opalescence Trèswhite Supreme for whitening his teeth during the filming of the new hit movie.
While attending the lounge, held prior to The 66th Annual Golden Globes Awards to support the Visual Impact Now organization, Taylor was particularly excited to try Opalescence Trèswhite Supreme again. The dentist-dispensed whitening product made a special guest appearance at the lounge to help add some glimmer to the award show broadcast.
Today, you have many whitening options available from your for dentist – of which Opalescence is one, as well as over-the-counter. However, there is a widespread consensus that dentist-dispensed whitening products, when used as directed, can be most successful. To determine which whitening product is best for you, schedule an appointment with your dentist.
The Visual Impact Now organization, through partnerships with organizations such as “The Boys and Girls Club” and “Give the Gift of Sight Foundation”, assists underprivileged children with needs for eye examinations and eye care.
Dental Stem Cells Hold Promise for Future Regenerative Services
November 2008 — Dentists now may be in the position to help patients preserve their own stem cells by saving teeth that might otherwise be discarded during a routine dental procedure. Dental pulp contains powerful stem cells that, within the past decade, have been shown to have the ability to grow into a wide range of cells and tissues. A new technology incorporating recovery and cryo-preservation of the dental stem cells enables dentists to preserve these teeth so that patients can bank their stem cells for potential future use.
According to scientists at the Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory at Columbia University, recovering and cryo-preserving dental stem cells provide people with the opportunity to benefit from future regenerative services and medical technology. Dentists who incorporate the technology in their practices are providing patients with a potentially life-saving service. Dental stem cells may have tremendous medical applications, such as possibly being used to treat many of today's most difficult diseases like Parkinson's disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, spinal cord injury, brain trauma and others.
Largest Reduction of Oral Plaque is Achieved with an At-Home Regimen
October 2008 — The accumulation of overnight plaque build-up can be cut by as much as two-thirds by using a combination of a power toothbrush, toothpaste that contains stannous fluoride and mouth rinse. This is the finding of a novel study conducted by the University of Florida School of Dentistry and Procter & Gamble Oral Care that evaluated the combined use of three at-home oral care products on plaque build-up.
Healthy adults who presented evidence of overnight plaque were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups. One group followed “regular oral hygiene” practices using a manual toothbrush and standard toothpaste. The second group used a “combination” of a power toothbrush, toothpaste containing stannous fluoride and mouth rinse. Overall, the study showed the largest reduction in plaque produced by an at-home oral care regimen, with the “combination” group demonstrating an average 69 percent reduction in overnight plaque.
Health professionals have been researching the associations between oral health and overall health, including associations between the bacteria found in dental plaque and an increased risk for blood clots that may cause heart attacks. Therefore, the results of the current study have potential public health implications, particularly since research has shown that periodontal disease, an advanced form of gum disease caused by plaque buildup, can also be linked to cardiovascular disease, stroke and respiratory illness.
Dry Mouth Sufferers Have a New Alternative for Long-Lasting Relief: Salese
October 2008 — People suffering from dry mouth have a new alternative for long-lasting relief in the form of a soft lozenge that delivers moisture-retaining and bacteria fighting ingredients for an hour or longer. The new Salese lozenge from Nuvora is sugar and alcohol free, helps to maintain a healthy pH balance inside the mouth and is available over-the-counter.
Dry mouth is known to affect at least one in 10 adults in the general population. For those over 65 years of age, the frequency approaches nearly 25 percent, and rates can be as high as about 45 percent to 50 percent for institutionalized elders. Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications such as antacids, decongestants, antidepressants, diuretics and many others are all capable of causing dry mouth. Dry mouth can lead to other serious health conditions.
Salese demonstrates long-lasting properties due to an innovative sustained release technology. This new formulation combines with essential oils, Xylitol and a moisture-retaining ingredient to extend contact time inside of the mouth to fight bacteria and help relieve dry mouth symptoms. To use, patients insert the Salese lozenge inside their mouth without biting or chewing, and allow it to slowly dissolve for at least an hour.
Oral Care Habits Inconsistent with Public Perceptions
October 2008 — The American Dental Association (ADA), in collaboration with Crest and Oral-B, recently revealed the results of a public opinion survey about perceptions of oral health care.
The findings of the national representative survey of 1,000 Americans ages 18 and older who live in the continental United States, found that eight out of 10 Americans say taking care of one's mouth, teeth, and gums is “absolutely needed.” However, of these individuals, only one-third of them say they do an “excellent” job doing so. What's more, one parent in four states that his or her kids only do a “fair” or “poor” job taking care of their own mouth, teeth and gums.
This is contradictory to the belief expressed by survey respondents, many of whom consider the smile to be the most important physical attribute. However, many Americans do not realize that a beautiful smile is not always a healthy smile and can mask underlying oral health problems.
For example, the survey revealed that more than one in three Americans thinks a little bleeding from brushing is normal (33 percent), yet it's not. It could actually be a sign of gum disease or something even worse. Americans are unaware that periodontal disease must be treated and cannot be left alone (33 percent). Additionally, more than one-third of the Americans surveyed (37 percent) don't realize that poor oral health has been linked with other serious health conditions such as stroke, heart disease and diabetes.
Elmo Teaches Children about Oral Health in “Ready, Set, Brush!”
October 2008 — Sesame Street's lovable Elmo is helping teach children how to brush their teeth in a new book called Ready, Set, Brush! The pop-up book includes pictures of Elmo, Cookie Monster, The Count, and many other Sesame characters teaching children how to take care of their teeth. The book is a result of a collaborative effort between the American Dental Association (ADA), Readers' Digest Children's Books and Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street.
Designed to help parents teach the importance of oral health to their children in a fun way, the 12-page book features a spin wheel to determine how much toothpaste children need to put on Elmo's toothbrush. The book also includes a cutout brush used to clean Marvin Monster's teeth.
Ready, Set, Brush! is available at a variety of retailers, including Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Borders, Target and many others.
Natural Dentist Anticavity Fluoride Rinse Awarded ADA Seal
September 2008 — The American Dental Association has granted its coveted Seal of Acceptance to The Natural Dentist Healthy Teeth Anticavity Fluoride Rinse following studies that found the product effective in helping to prevent or reduce tooth decay, when used as directed.
The Natural Dentist Anticavity Fluoride Rinse strengthens tooth enamel to help minimize the risk of cavities and is intended to be part of an oral care regimen that includes brushing and flossing. The Natural Dentist oral rinse contains natural ingredients, with no alcohol, artificial sweeteners, dyes or preservatives. It helps preserve mouth moisture with Aloe Vera Gel and Vegetable Glycerin, kills bad breath germs and has a minty flavor with cool, menthol freshening, without the ”burn” or staining of other brands.
The ADA-accepted The Natural Dentist Anticavity Fluoride Rinse is available at leading drugstore, grocery and mass retail locations nationwide, and is part of an all-natural product family that includes The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Mouth Rinse and The Natural Dentist Healthy Teeth & Gums Toothpaste.
For more information about The Natural Dentist products, visit www.thenaturaldentist.com.
VELscope Lights the Way to Oral Cancer Diagnosis
July 2008 — A new technological breakthrough is being heralded as a revolutionary diagnostic tool in the fight against oral cancer. The VELscope is a non-invasive device that uses fluorescence technology to check for abnormalities in the mucosal tissues of the mouth.
Oral cancer – which affects the lips, mouth and throat – has been on the rise in recent years, killing an estimated 481,000 people worldwide annually. In the United States alone, 35,000 oral cancer diagnoses have been projected for 2008, with a five-year survival rate of 50 percent. If oral cancer is diagnosed in its early stages, it has a survival rate of 80 to 90 percent. Unfortunately, the malignancy is rarely detected in its early stages, making it an extremely virulent cancer.
Experts believe that VELscope technology has the ability to significantly alter the playing field in terms of combating oral cancer. By enhancing the effectiveness of oral mucosal screening for tissue abnormalities, the VELscope can help medical professionals detect oral cancers in that 80 to 90 percent survival range, potentially saving hundreds of thousands of lives around the world.
The hand-held device is lightweight, portable and easy to use. It emits a bluish light into the mouth which in turn elicits fluorescence capable of distinguishing healthy tissue from abnormal tissue. Healthy tissue emits a greenish glow while abnormal tissue appears dark. Abnormal tissue can be distinguished and tested for malignancy, yielding an early and treatable diagnosis of oral cancer.
Vitamin D linked with Childhood Tooth Decay
July 2008 — Expectant mothers who maintain adequate levels of vitamin D may help protect their unborn child against childhood tooth decay according to a new study released at the International Association for Dental Research meeting on July 4th.
Researchers from the University of Manitoba studied 206 pregnant women for a period of 18 months. This period stretched from the second trimester of pregnancy – during which time a fetus' primary teeth begin to develop – to the child's first birthday.
Only 10 percent of the women participating in the study were judged to have had adequate vitamin D levels. Of the 135 children examined by researchers at one year of age, roughly 22 percent had noticeable defects in the formation of tooth enamel, while 34 percent experienced childhood tooth decay. The mothers of those suffering from tooth decay had extremely low levels of vitamin D throughout their pregnancy. Although the study only incorporated a small sampling of women, researchers consider the link between vitamin D levels and tooth formation viable.
Pediatric tooth decay is a growing problem. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is the most chronic disease affecting children aged five to 17.
Teeth Bleaching Kiosks Spark Controversy
May 2008 — The booming teeth whitening market has yielded an interesting new development that has been met with disapproval by the American Dental Association (ADA). This development is the emergence of teeth bleaching kiosks at malls and the ADA has concerns about the associated safety and efficacy.
The whitening kiosks in question are not affiliated with dental practices and the employees providing treatment are not dentists. The bleaching agents used at mall kiosks are significantly less concentrated than those used by dentists. Even the light used in conjunction with kiosk whitening is little more than a flashlight bulb; as opposed to the more advanced UV lighting systems used in-office. Most importantly, kiosk whitening is a self-administered treatment. Employees do not touch their clients' mouth, meaning that the service performed does not technically fall under the dentistry umbrella.
The ADA is deeply concerned about what they consider to be the practice of dentistry without a license. Bleaching kiosk practitioners argue that the self-administered treatment is similar in nature to at-home whitening treatments performed on a daily basis and therefore perfectly legal. The ADA further argues that not all people are candidates for bleaching, and that treatment performed on the wrong person could have oral health consequences, including “technicolor” or mismatched teeth and severe tooth sensitivity.
Professional teeth whitening performed by a cosmetic dentist costs $500 to $650 on average. Bleaching performed at mall kiosks ranges from $50 to $100 on average. Consult with your dentist before undergoing any oral treatment.
New Tooth Mousse Plus Combats Tooth Decay
AUSTRALIA, May 2008 — Scientists from the Cooperative Research Centre for Oral Health Science (CRC-OHS) in Victoria, Australia have developed a new product designed to target tooth decay. They claim that their innovative Tooth Mousse Plus product not only prevents the development of tooth decay, but also helps reverse the early stages of damage before it progresses to a more serious issue.
Tooth Mousse Plus is a water-based cream recommended for adults. It was originally developed by CRC-OHS in 2006 and is now available in 50 countries worldwide. Its patented design incorporates fluoride – a naturally occurring compound used by oral health professionals to inhibit tooth decay and dental caries – and peptide-calcium phosphate nanocomplex, a substance formulated to penetrate the enamel surface of the teeth. The CRC-OHS team claims that Tooth Mousse Plus can penetrate tooth enamel 10 times more effectively than traditional fluoride treatments currently in use.
Tooth decay is a common problem affecting millions of people around the world. Although tooth decay can be prevented, managed and treated with proper oral hygiene practices, it nonetheless remains a prevalent oral health concern.
Fruit Smoothies An Oral Health Concern?
May 2008 — The old adage, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” is now being supplemented with a serious warning that a smoothie a day may cause decay.
The British Dental Health Foundation has issued a warning about the potential harm associated with the frequent consumption of fruit smoothies. Many people are caught off guard by such a warning, believing fruit smoothies to be a healthy dietary option. A 2008 study conducted by the British Dental Health Foundation in conjunction with Oral B found that 30 percent of people believe fruit smoothies to be a tooth-healthy food. The fact of the matter is that fruit smoothies contain a great deal of sugar and acid, both of which can cause the erosion of tooth enamel and damage to the teeth, such as decay and tooth loss.
The popularity of fruit smoothies has been on the rise in recent years as people become increasingly conscious of their diet and general health. Fruits and fruit juices are thought by many to be the healthiest of snack and drink choices, often being supplied by parents to their children as an alternative to unhealthy sweets and sodas. While it is true that the occasional fruit smoothie can serve as an excellent means to consume necessary fruits, a regular habit of consuming fruit smoothies can be incredibly destructive to oral health.
Many dental professionals believe that an “erosion epidemic” could result if people are not warned of the potential harm associated with fruit smoothies. If you are a frequent consumer of fruit smoothies, you are advised to consult with your dentist for more information about maintaining a pro-oral health diet.
New Study Links Tooth Loss With Cancer
NAGOYA, May 2008 — Researchers in Japan have found a strong link between tooth loss and the development of three cancer types: head and neck, esophageal and lung cancer. While previous studies have already established such a correlation, the Japan study is the largest of its kind and the first to determine a connection between tooth loss and lung cancer.
The study incorporated more than 5,200 cancer patients – measured against a control group of some 10,000 cancer-free patients – and was conducted by researchers at the Aichi Cancer Center in Nagoya and the Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine. The results of the study were released in the May 2008 issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention, a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research. According to the results, victims of tooth loss are faced with a:
- 136 percent increased risk for esophageal cancer.
- 68 percent increased risk for head and neck cancer.
- 54 percent increased risk for lung cancer.
Tooth loss is reflective of poor oral hygiene practices and is most often caused as a direct result of gum disease and/or tooth decay. A great deal of study has surrounded the oral-systemic connection, with serious health conditions like cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes being linked with gum disease. Maintaining proper oral hygiene practices and getting regular dental checkups is essential for the promotion of oral health and greater general health.
FDA Issues Warning Regarding Denture Cleansers
April 2008 — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning denture wearers about a common ingredient in denture cleansers that has been linked with serious adverse reactions. The ingredient in question is thought to be persulfate, a compound that aids in the cleaning and bleaching of dentures.
Although FDA officials have speculated that adverse reactions could be caused as a result of misusing denture cleansers, they have nonetheless suggested that persulfates be replaced by an alternative compound. A label change has also been requested by the FDA to ensure that consumers understand the intended use of denture cleansers. It has been speculated that some denture wearers may be incorrectly using these cleansers orally in a similar fashion to mouthwash and other oral rinses. Dentures should be cleaned in a separate container, and rinsed thoroughly before use.
Thus far, approximately 73 severe allergic reactions have been reported by denture wearers – this includes at least one fatality. Symptoms of an adverse reaction can include irritation, rash, hives, gum tissue tenderness / damage, low blood pressure and breathing difficulties. These symptoms may not occur immediately after use. If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, you are advised to remove your dentures immediately and seek medical assistance.
The FDA strongly urges denture wearers to consult with their dentist about alternative denture cleansers while they continue their investigation.
How Clean is Your Mouth Guard?
OKLAHOMA, April 2008 — Researchers at Oklahoma State University (OSU) believe that athletic mouth guards may potentially do more harm than good. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that athletes use mouth guards to protect their teeth. While nobody is arguing the benefits associated with athletic mouth guards, questions have been raised about hygiene.
OSU microbiologist Dr. Tom Glass has been studying the contamination potential of athletic mouth guards. Dr. Glass swabbed a number of used mouth guards to study the different types of germs that were present. Expecting to find a variety of bacterium, Dr. Glass and his team were shocked to find that the germs were multiplying at an incredibly dangerous rate. Strep, staph and pneumococci are a mere sampling of the bacteria that can grow on a dirty mouth guard. Dr. Glass even found methicillin-resistant staph on a mouth guard, a potentially fatal bacteria.
Dirty mouth guards are more than an oral health concern. The lungs could be affected from molds that are inhaled during use; the stomach and digestive tract could be affected by ingested bacteria; and cuts in the mouth could allow bacteria from the mouth guard to reach the bloodstream, where it could have devastating effects.
How do you protect yourself? Mouth guards should be washed thoroughly with boiling water after use and kept in a clean place. Unfortunately, washing is not enough to remove all the germs that could penetrate a mouth guard. Oral health practitioners generally recommend that mouth guards be replaced every couple of weeks to prevent bacterial growth and any associated health concerns.
Anti-Cavity Lollipop Offers Sweet Protection Against Tooth Decay
LOS ANGELES, March 2008 — UCLA microbiologist Dr. Wenyuan Shi has developed a novel strategy in the ongoing battle against tooth decay and dental cavities. In an effort to promote healthy oral hygiene practices amongst underprivileged children, seniors and people from developing countries, Dr. Shi has proposed the sweetest of solutions in the form of a sugar-free anti-cavity lollipop.
Dr. Shi conceived of the all-natural lollipop as an alternative to what he has described as a failed approach to tooth decay prevention in the United States. His Dr. John's brand lollipop combines the power of ancient Eastern medicines with modern technology and medical innovation. After nearly 50,000 experiments involving some 2,000 natural herbs, Dr. Shi found his secret anti-cavity ingredient: licorice root.
As reported in the Journal of Natural Products, Dr. Shi and his team were able to isolate the active compounds in licorice and demonstrate their anti-cavity capabilities. The application of licorice root as an anti-cavity tool is a new and exciting method that Dr. Shi believes could revolutionize oral health care. And because the lollipop is all natural, it does not require FDA approval. In order to gain maximum value, two lollipops per day for 10 days, four times a year, is recommended. 
[Updated January 2010]
New markets recently added to Consumer Guide to Dentistry: Santa Monica, Ventura, West Los Angeles, Woodland Hills, Colorado Springs, Springfield and Troy.
Hot Topics
-
TMD
Is your jaw pain the sign of a serious problem? -
Teeth Grinding
How much is bruxing costing you? -
Mouth Guards
Help protect your teeth and gums from trauma. -
Orthodontics
Has your child
had an ADA- recommended evaluation?
