20 Hempstead Ave Lynbrook, NY 11563   516-599-6397

Dentists Warn Of Stress-Induced Bruxism Impacting Oral Health

The Daily Express (UK)  (6/4, Nuttall) reported that Dr. Bhavika Parekh from Smile n Shine highlighted the increasing incidence of bruxism, a stress-related condition causing worn-down teeth, cracked enamel, and aching jaws. This involuntary grinding or clenching, often occurring during sleep, is being observed more in both adults and children, particularly during stressful periods like exam seasons. Dr. Parekh noted that stress levels can be identified through dental assessments before patients recognize the symptoms themselves. Early intervention, such Read more

Bioengineered Gum Shows Promise In Reducing Oral Cancer Microbes

Dental Tribune International  (6/3) reported that researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine have developed a bioengineered chewing gum that reduces oral microbes associated with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Led by Dr. Henry Daniell, the gum contains a protein from lablab beans and an antimicrobial peptide, effectively reducing HPV and harmful bacteria like Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum by over 99% in lab tests. The next step involves clinical trials Read more

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

Regular Flossing Linked To Lower Mortality Risk

DrBicuspid  (6/3) reported that a study  published in the Journal of Dentistry found regular flossing is associated with a nearly 30% reduction in all-cause mortality risk. The study, led by Dr. Kai-yan Wang from The Fourth Military Medical University, analyzed data from 10,609 patients and identified an inverse dose-response relationship between flossing frequency and mortality risk. Patients with periodontitis who did not floss had the highest mortality risk, while those who flossed showed a reduced risk. The study Read more

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

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

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

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

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

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