Dental Research / 25.08.2024

Nowadays, everybody wants to have beautiful teeth, glossy and white. It is something like saying that a smile is the best that one can put on. But how can you make this possible and get that beautiful color of the teeth? In the age of the internet, we are exposed to so much information regarding dental care that things may seem rather confusing. Only the right guidance will help you maneuver through all those aisles filled with dental products. Read this article to discover ways to have a great smile and find a professional dental clinic in Frisco that help you attain the smile you always wanted!

What Makes a Perfect Smile?

Components of a Beautiful Smile

White teeth alone don't make a beautiful smile! It has to do with color, alignment, and shape. Consider your grin as a piece of art, in which each component is important. Your teeth's symmetry, the condition of your gums, and even the way your lips surround your teeth all add to their lovely appearance.

Personal and Social Benefits of Smiling

Smiling can improve social connections beyond aesthetics. It can improve your mood and make you seem more friendly. Have you ever noticed how your attitude changes when you glance in the mirror and see a smile on your face? It's not by accident! (more…)
Dental Research / 13.08.2024

Introduction    Teeth aligners can give you a hassle-free smile makeover, boosting your appearance and confidence. Cost is often a top question if you're considering them This guide will break down the factors influencing the cost of dental aligners in India, helping you make an informed decision.       What Are Teeth Aligners?    Teeth aligners, or clear aligners, are orthodontic devices used to straighten crooked teeth. These aligners can correct your teeth without using metal wires and brackets as traditional braces. They are made of smooth, transparent plastic material. These aligners are custom-made to fit over teeth tightly and are nearly undetectable when worn. Aligner treatment consists of a series of aligners you need to change per your treatment plan. You need to wear these aligners for a set amount of time—typically 22 hours a day for effective results. You can take them out, eat your food, and maintain your oral health. The aligners will gradually move the teeth into their desired positions and address various problems, including crowding, spacing, overbites, and underbites. People choose teeth aligners because of how they look. People opt for teeth aligners because they look good and help discreetly achieve a straight, confident smile. They're comfortable, easy to use, and make it easier to maintain good dental hygiene during treatment.    (more…)
Anesthesiology, Dental Research, Surgical Research / 05.08.2024

  Medical professionals often inquire about dental crowns before surgery due to potential complications linked to anesthesia and medical equipment. Crowns can interfere with certain procedures, such as the use of airway management tools, requiring extra precautions in the operating room. Patients with dental crowns may face risks like dislodgment or damage during intubation, highlighting the need for careful planning. This ensures both the safety and effectiveness of the surgery, minimizing unexpected issues. Understanding these considerations can ease concerns and foster better communication between patient and doctor. By informing the surgical team about dental work, individuals can help ensure their procedure goes smoothly. (more…)
Dental Research / 16.07.2024

In the whirlwind of family life, scheduling individual dental appointments for everyone can feel like a logistical nightmare. But what if there was a way to streamline your family's oral healthcare needs with a single, convenient solution? Enter the world of family dentistry! Family dentists offer comprehensive care for patients of all ages, from the tiniest tots to grandparents. By choosing a family dentist, you can ensure your entire family receives the personalized care they need for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Moreover, good oral health is not just about a pearly white grin; it plays a crucial role in overall well-being, impacting everything from digestion to self-confidence. The Numerous Benefits of Family Dentistry Choosing a family dentist offers a multitude of benefits for your family's oral health journey:
  • Convenience and Streamlined Scheduling: One of the most significant advantages of family dentistry is convenience. Family dentists can handle all your family's dental needs under one roof, eliminating the need to schedule separate appointments with different dentists. This saves you time and ensures everyone in the family receives regular dental care.
  • Familiarity and Comfort: Regular visits with the same dentist foster a sense of trust and familiarity. This is especially important for young children who may experience anxiety during dental visits. A familiar environment and a dentist they know can make a world of difference, transforming a potentially stressful experience into a positive one.
  • Continuity of Care: A family dentist can track your family's dental history, allowing for personalized treatment plans and early detection of potential problems. This continuity of care is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health throughout your life. Your dentist can monitor the development of your children's teeth, identify any potential issues early on, and provide preventative measures to avoid future complications.
  • Understanding Family Dental Needs: Family dentists are trained to address the unique dental needs of each family member. From the eruption of a child's first tooth and the development of their primary and permanent teeth to the concerns of adults and seniors, family dentists are equipped to handle all stages of oral health.
  • Comprehensive Preventive Education: A family dentist not only provides routine care but also emphasizes preventive education tailored to your family’s specific needs. They can teach children the importance of brushing and flossing, provide dietary recommendations to support healthy teeth, and offer advice on preventing dental issues like cavities and gum disease. According to these dentists in San Antonio TX, by equipping your family with the knowledge to maintain good oral hygiene, they help ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.
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Dental Research / 16.07.2024

A chipped tooth, a stubborn stain, or a gap between your teeth can significantly impact your smile and self-confidence. The good news is that modern dentistry offers a variety of solutions for fixing damaged or discolored teeth, allowing you to achieve the smile you've always dreamed of. The reasons for tooth damage and discoloration are numerous. Accidents, chewing on hard objects, teeth grinding, and even the natural aging process can all take a toll on our teeth. Certain lifestyle habits like smoking, excessive coffee or tea consumption, and neglecting oral hygiene can also contribute to discoloration. Regardless of the cause, there's a treatment option available to restore your smile's beauty and function. However, consulting a dentist to determine the best course of action for your specific needs is crucial.

Understanding the Types of Damage and Discoloration

Tooth damage and discoloration can manifest in various ways:
  • Chipped or Cracked Teeth: These can be caused by accidents, biting down on hard objects, or teeth grinding. The severity of the chip or crack will determine the most suitable treatment.
  • Worn Teeth: Over time, teeth can wear down due to age, grinding, or acidic foods. This can expose the underlying dentin, making teeth appear yellowed.
  • Stains and Discoloration: Coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking are notorious for staining teeth. The aging process and certain medications can also contribute to discoloration. The extent and depth of the stain will influence the appropriate whitening method.
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Dental Research / 03.07.2024

Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, affecting people of all ages, from toddlers to the elderly. It goes beyond just having a bright smile; good oral hygiene can prevent a range of health issues, including gum disease, infection, and heart disease. To safeguard the dental health of every family member, adopting comprehensive oral care practices is essential. This article delves into practical tips that will help maintain excellent oral hygiene for the whole family, ensuring everyone enjoys a healthy, vibrant smile.
  1. Start Oral Hygiene Early
The foundation of good oral health is laid in early childhood. It's vital to introduce children to oral hygiene practices as soon as their first tooth appears. Parents should gently brush their baby’s teeth with a soft-bristled brush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. As children grow, they can be taught to brush their own teeth under supervision until they can manage on their own, usually around the age of six. Early exposure to regular dental care instills lifelong habits that prevent many dental problems.
  1. Regular Dental Checkups
Routine dental checkups are indispensable for maintaining oral health at all ages. These visits allow dentists to detect issues early on, such as cavities, gum disease, and even misalignments that might require orthodontic attention. For families seeking specialized dental care, particularly in orthodontics, it is helpful to look up the keyword certified orthodontists near me on a search engine. This will help locate qualified professionals who can assess and correct dental alignments, ensuring optimal oral health and functionality. (more…)
Dental Research / 20.06.2024

Are you missing a tooth?  If you have lost a tooth, don't worry; you're not alone! Many people lose teeth due to accidents, tooth decay, or gum disease. But did you know that options are available to replace a missing tooth?   Do you know the options available to replace a missing tooth?  Yes, there are a few options to replace a missing tooth. One standard option is a dental implant. Another option is a dental bridge, where a false tooth is attached to the teeth on either side of the gap. There are also partial or complete dentures and removable replacements for missing teeth.   (more…)
Dental Research / 18.06.2024

Key Takeaways
  • Regular dental check-ups play a critical role in maintaining oral health and preventing dental issues.
  • Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that are difficult to eliminate with at-home brushing and flossing.
  • Early detection and treatment of dental problems can save on more extensive and expensive procedures in the future.
  • Routine dental visits contribute to overall health by potentially identifying systemic issues like diabetes or heart disease.
Introduction Many people tend to overlook the importance of regular dental visits, considering them an unnecessary expense or an unpleasant task. However, maintaining oral health through scheduled check-ups is crucial for your teeth and gums and overall well-being. Regular visits ensure that any issues are caught early and treated promptly, a practice followed by experienced Ottawa dentists offering gentle care. These dental professionals provide an essential service that goes beyond merely cleaning teeth; they help prevent long-term health issues and ensure a healthy lifestyle. In Ottawa, dentists offering gentle care prioritize patient comfort and well-being. With serene environments and compassionate staff, these practices ensure a relaxed experience for all patients, even those with dental anxiety. Using modern techniques and personalized approaches, they transform routine visits into serene encounters, fostering a welcoming environment where every smile feels cared for and confident. (more…)
Dental Research, Opiods / 31.05.2024

Key Takeaways
  • Prescription medications, like Suboxone, may have unexpected side effects, including dental health issues.
  • It's crucial for everyone, particularly those on prolonged medication, to prioritize proper oral care.
  • Familiarizing yourself with medication side effects empowers you to take preemptive steps to safeguard your well-being.
  • Consistent dental examinations and embracing a healthy lifestyle can help alleviate certain medication-related risks.
Introduction to Prescription Medications and Dental Health Prescription medications can be life-saving, but they often come with side effects that patients may not fully understand. One such medication is Suboxone, a vital tool in treating opioid addiction. While Suboxone is effective for its intended purpose, it has been linked to significant dental health issues, including tooth decay. Recent reports and studies have highlighted the concern over a suboxone lawsuit tooth decay issue, emphasizing the need for awareness and preventive measures. Without the proper knowledge, patients might find themselves facing unexpected health challenges. (more…)
Dental Research / 25.05.2024

Table of Contents
  1. The Importance of Oral Health
  2. Routine Dental Checkups
  3. Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques
  4. The Impact of Diet on Oral Health
  5. Lifestyle Choices Affecting Oral Health
  6. Benefits of Preventative Care 
The Importance of Oral Health smile-teethThere's more to oral health than just having straight teeth. It's a crucial part of general wellbeing. Tooth decay, gum disease, and even more severe systemic disorders can be brought on by poor oral hygiene. Remember to practice good oral hygiene to avoid these problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that untreated oral disorders can impede speech and eating and can lead to chronic inflammation, which can exacerbate pre-existing conditions like heart disease. Regular visits to a Holly Springs dentist can help manage and prevent such conditions. Investing time in oral health is crucial for future comfort and wellbeing. Simple habits like brushing twice daily and flossing can prevent many problems. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to tartar build-up, cavities, and tooth loss. Teaching children these habits early sets them up for a lifetime of good dental practices. (more…)
Author Interviews, Dental Research / 12.05.2024

 Brussels, 10 May 2024. Gum health may play a pivotal role in overall health and quality of being, and deserves to be better acknowledged and explored by the research community. That is why the EFP promotes Gum Health Day 2024 on 12 May, an outreach initiative celebrated in more than 30 countries around the world to raise awareness among the medical profession and the general public of the importance of periodontal health. Dr Mia Rakic, Gum Health Day 2024 co-ordinator and member of the executive committee of the EFP (European Federation of Periodontology, efp.org), explains why Gum Health Day 2024 focuses on Generation Z and why gum health is so relevant: (more…)
Author Interviews, Brigham & Women's - Harvard, Dental Research, JAMA, Respiratory / 18.12.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Michael Klompas MD, MPH, FIDSA, FSHEA Hospital Epidemiologist Brigham and Women’s Hospital Professor of Medicine and Population Medicine Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Can teeth be safely brush in patients who are comatose, intubated or have NG tubes? Response: Pneumonia is thought to occur when secretions from the mouth get into the lungs.  Since there are many microbes in the mouth, there’s a risk that secretions from the mouth that get into the lungs will lead to pneumonia.  Toothbrushing may lower this risk by decreasing the quantity of microbes in the mouth. It is indeed safe and appropriate to brush the teeth of someone who is comatose, intubated, or who has an NG tube.  Indeed, our study found that the benefits of toothbrushing were clearest for patients receiving mechanical ventilation. (more…)
Dental Research / 29.11.2023

So, you've probably heard about ultrasonic tooth cleaners, right? They're like the new kids on the block in the world of dental hygiene. These gadgets use high-frequency sound waves – we're talking ultrasonic vibrations – to gently yet effectively break down and remove all sorts of nasties from your teeth: plaque, tartar, the works. The cool part? They do this without being harsh on your gums or enamel. This is key because, let’s face it, no one wants to trade in tartar for tooth sensitivity. It’s about getting your pearly whites clean without the downsides of traditional scraping tools that sometimes feel like a DIY project gone wrong in your mouth.

Why Ultrasonic Cleaners Could Be Your Teeth's New Best Friends

dental-health-pexels-photo-3706542
Now, why are these ultrasonic wonders good news for your chompers? Well, think about the usual suspects that dentists always warn us about – plaque and tartar. They're not just cosmetic issues; they're like the bad guys plotting against your oral health. Ultrasonic tooth cleaners step in as the superheroes, targeting these troublemakers with precision. This means less plaque and tartar, which in turn means a lower risk of gum disease and cavities. It’s a domino effect, really. Plus, these cleaners often reach where regular brushes can't, like those sneaky spots between your teeth and along your gum line. So, you’re not just cleaning; you're doing a deep clean every time.

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Dental Research, Nutrition / 25.11.2023

If you're setting your sights on giving your gums the royal treatment, you're on the right track. You want to buddy up with foods that are friends with your gums. Crunchy greens, like celery and spinach, are packed with gum-loving vitamins and minerals. Noshing on cheese and yogurt isn't just good for your bones; it also helps buffer the acids in your mouth, keeping your gums happy. Why's this a big deal? Well, your gums are the unsung heroes holding your teeth in place, and keeping them healthy is key to making sure your smile stays put for the long run.

Foods to Give a Wide Berth

Now, on to the munchies that your gums wish they could ghost. Sugary snacks and acidic eats like citrus and tomatoes might taste the bomb, but they're no pals to your gums. They invite bacteria to the party, and not the good kind. These guys get down to business, breaking down your gum tissue and causing inflammation. If you're fond of a smoke or a cheeky glass of wine, you might want to rethink that too. Anything that dries out your mouth is basically giving your gums a hard time. Skipping these is critical because, once gum disease checks in, it can be a hassle to show it the door.
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Author Interviews, Dental Research, Pediatrics, USPSTF / 13.11.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Li Li, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H. The Walter M. Seward Professor and Chair of Family Medicine University of Virginia (UVA) School of Medicine Director of Population Health at UVA Health Dr. Li joined the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force in January 2021. MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: Oral health is an important part of everyone’s overall health and well-being. Recognizing this, the Task Force looked at whether primary care clinicians can play a role in complementing the work of dental professionals to prevent cavities and gum disease. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  Our review of the latest available evidence focused on the prevention of cavities for children who are 5 years old and older and do not have any signs or symptoms. After a thorough review, we found that there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against oral health screening and interventions for school-aged children in primary care settings. (more…)
Dental Research / 27.07.2023

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified dentist or medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your dental program, diet, medication or lifestyle, For years, medical research has found that fluoride in toothpaste helps to prevent tooth decay and protect against cavities. As a result, most toothpastes contain between 1,000 to 1,100 mg/L of sodium fluoride or monofluorophosphate. But a new study has found that fluoride-free toothpaste is just as effective at preventing cavities as fluoride-based toothpaste. So, does this mean the end of using toothpaste enhanced with fluoride?
The study’s key findings
dental-fluoride-toothpaste-pexels-photo-8191884Poznan University of Medical Sciences carried out a study involving 171 participants over a period of 18 months. The participants were split into two groups. One group used hydroxyapatite (fluoride-free) toothpaste and the other group used fluoridated toothpaste throughout the study. Six-monthly trips to a dental clinician were completed and a DIAGNOcam device and plaque-disclosing solution were used to check for signs of cavities and plaque. The end results revealed that almost 90% of people in both groups had no new cavities, which indicates that both hydroxyapatite toothpaste and fluoridated toothpaste keep cavities at bay.
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Dental Research, Pediatrics / 27.10.2022

The British Dental Association stays on top of important trends that affect health. Baby food is the latest research subject in their crosshairs. With infant health a high concern, there is good reason to take a longer look at food consumption. Oral Care Exams Your first infant oral exam at NorthStar Dental Care will go into detail about the dos and don’ts of nutrition. Preventing oral health issues will eliminate some of the most debilitating problems when growing up. This is why the latest research from the BDA is so important, but the devil is still in the details. Before going down the rabbit hole of information, make sure that your baby is scheduled and up to date with all of their dental appointments. The first exam is one of many, with each one after being just as important as the last. (more…)
Dental Research / 19.10.2022

Dentistry has never been more convenient or sought-after than ever before. Not only can dental professionals these days aid with oral health-related issues, but they can also assist with cosmetic dental concerns. Dental veneers are one of the things that can greatly help with a wide array of health or cosmetic dental issues. If you fall into one of the falling categories, you might be a great candidate for dental veneers. Those with Tooth Discoloration dental-veneers-teeth-dentistry-pexel-imageTooth discoloration is such a common issue. It can be caused by improper brushing habits, smoking, or even drinking too many dark beverages like coffee or tea. So, people often opt for teeth whitening as a resolution. Teeth whitening isn’t the only solution for tooth discoloration. Dental veneers, which are little shells that get placed over the teeth, can cover up yellowed teeth or teeth with brown spots quite effortlessly. This way, you won’t have to worry about regularly getting your teeth bleached or purchasing expensive teeth-whitening products. (more…)
Author Interviews, Dental Research, NYU, Tobacco, Tobacco Research / 10.03.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Scott Thomas, PhD Assistant Research Scientist, Department of Molecular Pathobiology and Fangxi Xu, Junior Research Scientist & Clinical Research Coordinator Department of Molecular Pathobiology NYU College of Dentistry  MedicalResearch.com:  What is the background for this study?  What are the main findings?  vaping-e-cig-smoking-tobaccoResponse: Cigarette smoking is one of the well-established causes of periodontitis, but the effect of using electronic cigarettes (e-cig), especially its long-term impact on periodontal health, is not yet clearly understood. Considering the increased popularity of e-cig use, especially among teenagers and young adults, and the known effect of high nicotine concentration in e-cigarette products, we conducted this clinical research to see if there were differences in periodontal health between e-cig users, traditional smokers, and nonsmokers. The study consisted of two visits, 6 months apart, where measures of oral and periodontal health were obtained. Our data showed significantly greater clinical attachment loss in the e-cigarette users and cigarette smokers than in the non-smokers at both study visits. In only e-cigarette users, we observed an over 0.2 mm average increase in the clinical attachment loss after 6 months.  (more…)
AHA Journals, Blood Pressure - Hypertension, Dental Research, Menopause / 07.03.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Michael J. LaMonte, PhD, MPH Research Professor (epidemiology) Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health School of Public Health and Health Professions Women’s Health Initiative Northeast Regional Center University at Buffalo – SUNY Buffalo, NY 14214 MedicalResearch.com:  What is the background for this study?  What are the main findings? Dr. LaMonte:  The rationale for this study was based on existing study results showing
  • (1) oral bacteria are involved with conversion of dietary nitrate (e.g., from leafy greens and beets) to nitric oxide which is a chemical involved keeping arteries healthy and maintaining blood pressure;
  • (2) rinsing the mouth with antiseptic solution (mouthwash) kills oral bacteria and results in rapid increases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure; and
  • (3) a very limited amount of epidemiological data suggest that the oral bacteria found beneath the gums (responsible for gingivitis and periodontal disease) are associated with blood pressure and history of hypertension in middle-aged adults.
Thus, we conducted our study to determine whether oral bacteria (beneath the gums) would be predictive of developing hypertension among women who were without this condition at the time the bacteria were measured. Because the bacteria (exposure) would be known to precede development of hypertension (disease), an association seen in our study would be strongly suggestive of a role for oral bacteria in the development of high blood pressure. Our primary result was for statistically significant higher risks of developing hypertension associated with 10 bacterial species, and significantly lower risks of developing hypertension associated with 5 bacterial species. Our findings were evident even after we accounted for differences in demographic factors, lifestyle factors, and clinical factors, and generally were of consistent magnitudes we examined across subgroups of older and younger women, white and black women, normal weight and overweight/obese women, those with normal or slightly elevated blood pressure at study enrollment, and those who were using or not using menopausal hormone therapy at baseline. Therefore, while our observational study evidence for an association is not equivalent to causation, the robustness of the associations between oral bacteria and hypertension risk supports a need to further understand this relationship, ideally with a clinical trial design that would provide definitive evidence to support or refute causation.  (more…)
Aging, Author Interviews, Dental Research, Geriatrics, NYU / 23.01.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Bei Wu, PhD Dean's Professor in Global Health Vice Dean for Research Rory Meyers College of Nursing Affiliated Professor, College of Dentistry Co-Director, NYU Aging Incubator New York University New York, NY 10010 MedicalResearch.com:  What is the background for this study?    Response: Social isolation and loneliness are global public health concerns. Social isolation is the lack of social contacts and having few people to have regular interactions; while loneliness is the distressing feeling of being alone or separated. Approximately 24% of community-dwelling older adults aged 65 and above are considered to be socially isolated in the United States, and 43% adults aged over 60 years old report feeling lonely. Increasing evidence suggests that social isolation and loneliness are risk factors for older adults’ health outcomes, such as depression, comorbidities, cognitive impairment and dementia, and premature mortality. However, one key limitation in the literature is that only a few studies have examined the impact of social isolation and loneliness on oral health. (more…)
Author Interviews, Dental Research, JAMA, Pediatrics, USPSTF / 10.12.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Michael Cabana, M.D., M.A., M.P.H Professor of Pediatrics Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Physician-in-chief , Children's Hospital at Montefiore Chair of the Department of Pediatrics Albert Einstein College of Medicine Member, U.S. Preventive Services Task Force  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study and recommendation statement?  Response: Dental caries, also known as cavities or tooth decay, is the most common chronic disease in children in the United States and can develop in any child whose teeth have come in. Many young children under five years old do not visit a dentist, so the Task Force reviewed the latest evidence on how primary care clinicians can help prevent tooth decay in young children. The Task Force’s research led to two important findings: all young children whose teeth have come in should have fluoride varnish applied by their clinician, and all children six months and older whose water supply doesn’t contain enough fluoride should receive fluoride supplements. Both approaches can help prevent cavities in kids. The Task Force also determined that there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against screening for tooth decay in the primary care setting for children under five. This is consistent with the Task Force’s 2014 recommendation on dental caries. (more…)
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Dental Research / 09.12.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Henry Daniell Ph.D W. D. Miller Professor & Director of Translational Research, Vice Chair, Department of Basic and Translational Sciences, Editor in Chief, Plant Biotechnology Journal, Oxford, UK School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104-6030  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?  Response: ACE2 is a human protein present in human cells, blood and saliva.  In COVID-19 patients this protein is inactivated.  SARS-CoV-2 virus enters human cells using receptor of this protein.  ACE2 chewing gum utilizes two different mechanisms.  ACE2 enzyme directly binds to the spike protein on SARS-CoV-2 and traps virus in the chewing gum.  In addition, ACE2 enzyme binds to its own receptor on oral epithelial cells, thereby blocks entry of any virus that is not trapped in the chewing gum (more…)
Author Interviews, Dental Research / 01.07.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dane Kim, Dental Student University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: This large study was inspired, in part, by a previous publication, Gustatory Function After Third Molar Extraction (Shafer et al. 1999), which examined the effect of third molar extractions on human taste function.   Their work was based upon more severe extractions and followed patients only up to six months after their surgery. Studies examining taste function over a longer period, i.e., beyond six months from the surgery, were non-existent. The Smell and Taste Center of Penn Medicine, which is the only center of its type in the United States, has a large unique database of patients who have been thoroughly tested for both smell and taste function. This provided us with the opportunity to compare data from hundreds of persons who had previously received third-molar extractions to those who had not received such extractions. Importantly, the extracts had occurred years before thee taste testing.   (more…)
Author Interviews, Dental Research, Microbiome, University of Pennsylvania / 19.05.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Geelsu Hwang, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Department of Preventive and Restorative Sciences Center for Innovation and Precision Dentistry (CiPD) School of Dental Medicine University of Pennsylvania  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What is the significance of this oral biofilm?  Response: Dental caries is one of the most common and costly biofilm-dependent diseases that afflict children and adults worldwide. Particularly, Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a hyper-virulent type of chronic tooth decay that most frequently afflicts underprivileged preschool children. The onset and progression of carious lesions in ECC are rapid and aggressive, causing rampant destruction of the smooth surfaces of teeth. ECC is painful and often requires surgical procedure under general anesthesia, while current treatment modalities are inefficient and recurrence of ECC is common. Notably, interactions between a fungus, Candida albicans, and a bacterium, Streptococcus mutans, have been known to play important roles in the pathogenesis of dental caries. Thus, we attempted to strategically develop a targeted measure to effectively prevent cross-kingdom interactions and subsequent biofilm development. (more…)
Author Interviews, Dental Research, Mental Health Research, NYU / 15.04.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: ANGELA R. KAMER, DMD, MS, PhD Associate Professor Periodontology and Implant Dentistry NYU Dentistry MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The accumulation of amyloid β plaques and neurofibrillary pathology in the brain are pathognomonic to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Brain amyloid deposition begins decades before cognitive dysfunction and is thought to be the first AD pathological feature followed by tau tangle accumulations and other pathologies. The mechanisms by which brain amyloid develops are incompletely understood although inflammation and bacterial imbalances (known as dysbiosis) of the gut and oral cavity may be involved. Periodontal disease affecting more than 50% of elderly is an inflammatory, chronic condition characterized by periodontal tissue destruction and bacterial imbalances. Using PET studies, we showed previously that measures of periodontal destruction were associated with brain amyloid retention in the brain [1]. In this study, we sought to investigate whether subgingival (under the gum line) bacteria associated with Alzheimer’s disease specific pathology, namely amyloidosis and tauopathy. (more…)
AHA Journals, Author Interviews, Blood Pressure - Hypertension, Dental Research / 30.03.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Francesco D’Aiuto Professor/Hon Consultant Head of Periodontology Unit UCL Eastman Dental Institute  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: This study was set out to further our understanding of the link between gum disease and high blood pressure. Recent evidence suggested that individuals with gum disease had a 20-70% increased risk of hypertension and systemic inflammation seemed to be a driver in mediating this association. Further research on the matter was needed. We recruited two relatively large groups of otherwise healthy participants (without a confirmed diagnosis of hypertension) who had gum disease one and healthy gums the other. We found that diagnosis of periodontitis (gum disease) was consistently linked to higher systolic blood pressure independent of other cardiovascular risk factors. (more…)
Author Interviews, Dental Research, Inflammation / 22.10.2020

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof. Michael Glogauer, D.D.S., Ph.D Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto Toronto, ON Canada MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Periodontal disease (PD) affects between 20% and 50% of the global population, with growing evidence supporting its association with other inflammatory diseases, including heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. Several studies have shown how untreated periodontal disease leads to increased medical care costs for nonoral conditions, including patient hospitalization rates. The interaction of inflammatory diseases with PD suggests a shared, underlying pathology that may be exploited to better manage patients and reduce the economic burden. However, the mechanisms through which these diseases interact are unclear. In periodontal disease, tissue and bone destruction in the mouth is driven by elevated recruitment of white blood cells called polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs), which are activated by the oral disease and recruited from the circulation to sites of inflammation.  (more…)