Every year, the dental field takes leaps forward. While you may not see the results of innovative techniques and technologies entering the dental office right away, you can look forward to reaping the benefits of these advances in years to come. Read this post to learn more about studies and discoveries in the last year that are impacting dental care. Visit your dentist twice a year for regular, preventive dentistry services to keep your smile whole and healthy for life, and ask your trusted dentist about the latest in dentistry innovations.
1 – Low Testosterone May Increase Risk for Gum Disease
A research study that examined monkeys with low testosterone revealed that these monkeys almost always had gum disease as well. The Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry scientists are still studying the reasons these two conditions may be linked. If you’ve been diagnosed with low testosterone, make sure you let your dentist know as you may be at higher risk for gum disease and other oral health concerns.
2 – Needle-Free Local Anesthesia May Be Around the Corner
Research at the University of Sao Paolo has uncovered a needle-free method of administering local anesthesia. For all those patients who dread visiting the dentist and have even greater fear of needles, this may be a great solution. Instead of needles, we use electric currents to numb the areas to be treated.
3 – Fillings May Recreate Tooth Structure Instead of Repairing Them
Fillings using bioactive glass may be able to allow patients to actually regrow healthy tooth structure rather than replacing it. Bioactive glass has been used to repair damaged bones in other parts of the body for decades, but researchers at Oregon State University determined it can be used to repair damaged teeth as well.
4 – There’s a Link Between Esophageal Cancer & Gum Disease
60% of patients with esophageal cancers in a University of Louisville study also had a specific type of oral bacteria, porphyromonas gingivalis, that is often linked to gum disease. Only 12% of those patient who had esophageal cancer did not have this bacteria.
5 – Mercury Fillings Have Negative Impact on Health
For years dentists and dental researchers have questioned the use of potentially hazardous mercury amalgam fillings. Research out of the University of Georgia indicates that mercury from these fillings is likely affecting whole body health, especially for patients who have 8 or more metal fillings. These patients actually have 150% more mercury in their blood than people with one filling.
6 – Don’t Forget to Take Your Anti-Cavity Pill
University of Florida researchers indicate that a pill to prevent cavities may be available soon. Actually, a super bacterium may be the answer to fighting cavity-causing bacteria. These super bacteria are the best way to eliminate the more destructive forms of oral bacteria.
7 – Dental Development May Be Impeded by Regularly Consumed Substances
BPA commonly found in plastics and vinclozolin is an ingredient in a common fungicide used in crop growth. Unfortunately, both of these materials are endocrine disruptors that impede development of strong, healthy teeth. Research out of the European Congress of Endocrinology seeks to inform parents about these potentially hazardous items for infants and children and help them avoid exposing kids to these materials.
8 – Mouth Breathers May be at Greater Risk for Decay
Breathing through the mouth, especially during sleep, is one of the leading causes of dry mouth. The limited production of saliva increases the risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health concerns. According to a study conducted at the University of Otago Sir John Walsh Research Institute in New Zealand, mouth breathing may be a serious hazard to oral health.
9 – Your Saliva May Cure Celiac Disease
Celiac disease affects many people’s ability to breakdown gluten in the diet. Researchers at Boston University discovered common oral bacteria, Rothia, may be the key to curing this disease. An increase in Rothia may be able to break down gluten enzymes and improve digestion.
10 – Early Cavity Detection Liquid May be Available soon
While x-rays and examinations allow us to diagnose tooth decay in early stages, a new cavity detection liquid developed by Douglas Benn, DDS, PhD may give dentists the ability to diagnose decay even earlier. As tooth enamel weakens, the early cavity detection liquid reveals the softer areas of tooth structure and allows us to begin treatment before decay fully sets in.
Meet the White Clay Dental Associates
At White Clay Dental Associates, we work hard to keep patients smiling. Our team is dedicated to staying up to date on all the latest advances in dentistry techniques and technologies, so we can offer patients the best possible care. Call our Newark dental team to find out more or schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon.