Research and Innovation

The Dimensions Of Dental Hygiene  reported that incorporating exercise programs, such as resistance training and stretching, may effectively reduce musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) risks and pain among dental hygienists. A systematic review highlighted the benefits of resistance training for improving muscle endurance and postural stability, while stretching exercises, particularly chairside, were Read more

The Dimensions Of Dental Hygiene  (Pratt Machado) reported that researchers at New York University College of Dentistry have discovered a biological mechanism that may explain higher rates of periodontal diseases in individuals with Down syndrome. Published in Cell Reports, the study found impaired calcium signaling in salivary glands reduces saliva production, affecting Read more

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 Read more

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 Read more

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 Read more

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 Read more

Dimensions Of Dental Hygiene  (11/28, Pratt Machado) reported that new research  from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has discovered that men produce higher levels of the inflammatory protein IL-1β, explaining their greater risk for severe periodontitis. This biological mechanism, confirmed in both human and mouse studies, suggests that men are predisposed Read more

Dentistry IQ  (3/15) reported that “a revolution is underway as dental professionals integrate advanced digital technologies into their practices, transforming patient care, diagnostics, treatment planning, and office management.” With current technology, “data can be gathered via 2D radiographs, 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), intraoral and extraoral scans, and photogrammetry” and Read more

Dr Bicuspid  (3/18, Barros) reports that Dr. Gustavo Avila-Ortiz, a former faculty member at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, and currently a visiting professor in the Harvard School of Dental Medicine Division of Periodontics, explained the new classification system for periodontal Read more

Dr Bicuspid  (3/18, Turner) reports, “United Concordia Dental and Harmony Health are piloting a saliva test and mobile app aimed at improving dental care access for underserved Pennsylvanians.” The saliva test “is designed to detect oral health risks like cavities, gum disease, and diabetes.” Link: https://www.drbicuspid.com/dental-hygiene/hygiene-tools/saliva-testing/article/15739925/united-concordia-harmony-partner-on-saliva-test-app