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Mouthguards And Jaw Clenching Boost Athletic Strength

The Academy of General Dentistry  (6/1) shared that dental sports medicine is exploring the benefits of mouthguards beyond dental protection, focusing on their role in enhancing athletic strength and neuromuscular activation. A new scoping review published in General Dentistry synthesizes peer-reviewed literature on how mouthguards and jaw clenching can improve strength-related performance. These findings are detailed in the May/June issue of the publication. Link: https://www.agd.org/about-agd/publications-news/this-week-at-agd/this-week-at-agd-detail/2026/06/01/the-benefits-of-mouthguard-use-and-jaw-clenching-on-athletic-strength

By Nicole Kohner, ago

Neanderthals May Have Practiced Dental Interventions

DrBicuspid  (5/28) reported that a study  (5/13) published in PLOS One reveals a Neanderthal tooth from Chagyrskaya Cave in Russia, dating back 59,000 years, shows the earliest evidence of deliberate dental intervention. The tooth, featuring a large cavity, exhibited scratches indicative of tool use, confirmed by microtomographic analysis. The study, led by Alisa V. Zubova, suggests the procedure aimed to alleviate pain by removing pulp, marking a significant milestone in understanding Neanderthal cognition and dental practices. Dr. Gregorio Read more

By Nicole Kohner, ago

Hormonal Impact On Women’s Oral Health Highlighted

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch  (5/24) reported that hormones significantly affect women’s oral health, influencing teeth and gum conditions. Hormonal changes during life stages like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can exacerbate dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay. The article emphasizes the importance of regular dental check-ups and maintaining good oral hygiene to mitigate these effects. It suggests that women should be particularly vigilant about their dental health as they age, given the hormonal influences on Read more

By Nicole Kohner, ago

Animal-Assisted Therapy Reduces Dental Anxiety In Children

The Academy of General Dentistry  (5/26) shared that a study in General Dentistry explored the use of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) to manage dental anxiety in children. Two pediatric patients with severe dental anxiety showed significant improvements in behavior and reduced stress levels during dental procedures when AAT was used. The therapy involved the presence of trained dogs, which helped decrease salivary cortisol levels, indicating lower stress. The study suggests AAT as a promising noninvasive technique for improving Read more

By Nicole Kohner, ago

Bioengineered Gum Shows Potential In Cancer Treatment

Food & Wine  reported that researchers at the University of Pennsylvania are developing a bioengineered chewing gum from lablab beans to target microbes linked to head and neck cancers, including HPV and specific bacteria. In early lab tests, the gum significantly reduced HPV levels and nearly eliminated harmful bacteria without affecting beneficial oral microbes. Despite promising initial results, further research and clinical trials are needed. The gum has already received FDA clearance for an investigational trial Read more

By Nicole Kohner, ago

Flossing Linked To Improved Long-Term Health Outcomes

SELF Magazine  (4/22) reported that flossing is linked to reduced risks of dementia, stroke, and cardiovascular disease, as well as improved management of diabetes. Experts, including Dr. Kami Hoss and Dr. Richard Nejat, emphasize that flossing disrupts bacterial biofilm between teeth, reducing plaque and gum inflammation, which can lead to systemic health benefits. Research indicates that poor flossing habits correlate with a 30% increased mortality risk. Dr. Jennifer Timmons highlights that bacteria from gum disease can Read more

By Nicole Kohner, ago

Hydroxyapatite Gaining Attention As Caries Prevention Alternative

Dimensions Of Dental Hygiene  (4/17) reported that the ongoing debate over fluoride’s safety has increased interest in hydroxyapatite (HAp) as an alternative for caries prevention. While fluoride remains effective in preventing dental caries, concerns about dental fluorosis and systemic toxicity persist. Hydroxyapatite, the primary mineral in teeth and bone, offers a biomimetic approach that is safe if ingested, making it suitable for young children. Studies indicate that HAp can effectively remineralize enamel and reduce dentin hypersensitivity. Read more

By Nicole Kohner, ago

Valuing Ownership Interests In Dental Practices

DrBicuspid  (4/17) reported that Bruce Bryen, CPA, CVA, discussed the complexities involved in valuing ownership interests in dental practices, particularly when partners have unequal production levels. Bryen emphasized that the value of a practice at 100% is not directly divisible among partners, especially when one partner contributes more to the practice’s revenue. Disputes over valuation may lead to litigation, with each partner needing separate assessments of their interests. Bryen noted that factors like administrative duties and Read more

By Nicole Kohner, ago

Oral Cancer Screening Urged As Daily Practice

DrBicuspid reported that Debra “Debbie Z” Zafiropoulos, an oral cancer advocate, emphasizes the need for daily oral cancer screenings in dental practices, beyond April’s Oral Cancer Awareness Month. The American Cancer Society projects over 60,000 oral cancer diagnoses in the U.S. this year, with a five-year survival rate of 68%. Zafiropoulos highlights the rise of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers, advocating for comprehensive screening protocols like her SOSA method, which includes skin assessments. She underscores the critical Read more

By Nicole Kohner, ago

GERD And Peptic Ulcers Linked To Dental Issues

DrBicuspid  (3/24) reported that a review  in the Journal of Evidence-Based Dental Practice suggests patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers are at higher risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Led by Maria Cláudia Alves from the Federal University of Minas Gerais, the study highlighted that GERD patients had higher indices for decayed, missing, and filled teeth, as well as periodontal disease. The authors stressed the need for interdisciplinary treatment approaches between doctors and dental Read more

By Nicole Kohner, ago