In the last year, dental researchers have uncovered some innovative treatment methods and materials, important connections between oral and overall health, and a wide range of other important oral health discoveries. Learn more about the latest in the field of dentistry by reading this post, and talk to your dentist during your next dental checkup about when you can expect to see these treatment options in your local dental office.
1 – Low Testosterone May Lead to Gum Disease
At the Texas A&M Baylor college of dentistry, a recent study showed that male monkeys with low testosterone almost all had gum disease. More research is needed to fully understand the connection between low testosterone and gum disease, but if you have been diagnosed with low testosterone, let your dentist know.
2 – Needle-Free Local Anesthesia
The University of Sao Paolo has created a needle-free local anesthesia administration tool that uses electric current to administer anesthetic. This is a great option for patients with dental phobia and/or those who are fearful of needles.
3 – Bioactive Glass Filling Material
At Oregon State University, studies show that bioactive glass, which has been used in bone healing for years, may be a better option than other composites used for dental fillings. Bioactive glass interacts with the body and may extend the life of a filling and even restore natural tooth structure.
4 – Link Between Gum Disease & Esophageal Cancer
Researchers from the University of Louisville found porphyromonas gingivalis bacteria, which is common in gum disease sufferers, was found in 60% of patients with esophageal cancer and only 12% of those without this form of cancer. Research is ongoing to understand what causes this link.
5 – Mercury in Fillings May be Causing Health Problems
At the University of Georgia, a study discovered that those with eight or more metal restorations are at serious risk for negative health effects of mercury poisoning. Patients with numerous metal fillings or crowns have as much as 150% more mercury in the blood than those with no fillings. While the potential health effects of mercury fillings have been questioned for years, these results seem to indicate a need for dentists to completely remove metal amalgam materials from their practice.
6 – Take Your Anti-Cavity Pills
A University of Florida study indicated that a super strain of oral bacteria may be the key to eliminating other cavity causing bacteria. This specific strain of oral bacteria actually attacks those bacteria that cause tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. The hope is that soon a simple pill containing the super bacteria may be all it takes to completely remove the risk for tooth decay.
7 – Bottled Water May Be Harming Dental Development
At the European Congress of Endocrinology, researchers determined that BPA in plastics and vinclozolin found in fungicides are endocrine disruptors that may hamper the development of healthy tooth enamel. If you have an infant, toddler, or young child, learn more about products that may contain these endocrine disruptors, so you can limit your child’s exposure.
8 – Mouth Breathers at Higher Risk for Tooth Decay
A study out of the University of Otago Sir John Walsh Research Institute in New Zealand suggests mouth breathers may be at higher risk for tooth decay. A common side effect of mouth breathing, especially during sleep, is chronic dry mouth. Patients with dry mouth do not produce adequate saliva to neutralize acids produced while eating, which increases risk for tooth decay.
9 – Salivary Enzyme May be a Treatment for Celiac Disease
At Boston University, researchers are using Rothia, a common oral bacterium, to break down gluten enzymes. Further research is being conducted into potential uses of Rothia as a treatment for patients who suffer from celiac disease which makes it difficult for patients to breakdown gluten.
10 – The Early Cavity Detection Liquid
Douglas Benn, DDS, PhD has created a liquid that can expose cavity and pre-cavity areas of teeth on x-rays, allowing dentists to treat tooth decay without the need for needles, drills, and other uncomfortable treatments. Instead, we apply a simple remineralizing solution that can rebuild lost structure and strengthen tooth enamel.
Meet the Distinctive Dentistry Team
At Distinctive Dentistry, our team is dedicated to remaining at the forefront of the dental field. Our dentist and team members complete continuing education hours regularly to ensure we are using the most innovative treatment methods and materials. If you have questions about your oral health care plan or want to schedule a consultation appointment with our team, call Distinctive Dentistry in Dallas today.
