Scientific Program | Dentistry | Dental Care

Gum disease linked to common heart rhythm condition

2025-05-19 - 2025-05

A new study has found a link between the bacteria responsible for gum disease and atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It emphasizes the importance of adopting a holistic approach to medicine.
In much the same way as knowledge of the benefits of a healthy gut microbiome has expanded exponentially, more and more research has begun demonstrating a connection between mouth health and disease. New Atlas has previously covered research linking oral bacteria with Alzheimer's disease, gut inflammation, and heart disease.
Now, a new study led by Hiroshima University (HU) in Japan has found a link between the bacterium responsible for gum disease, or periodontitis, and the common heart rhythm disorder atrial fibrillation (AFib).
"The causal relationship between periodontitis and atrial fibrillation is still unknown, but the spread of periodontal bacteria through the bloodstream may connect these conditions," said the study's lead author, Shunsuke Miyauchi, MD, an assistant professor at HU's Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences.
The most common clinically significant heart rhythm disorder, the global prevalence of AFib - also called AF - is high and continues to rise. The condition is associated with an increased risk of heart failure, stroke, and death. Periodontitis is the name given to a group of inflammatory oral infections caused by bacteria that live on tooth surfaces and destroy underlying supporting tissues. The condition can range from mild gingivitis (gum inflammation) to the chronic destruction of dental tissue, resulting in tooth loss. Porphyromonas gingivalis is one such bacterium and was the focus of the present study.
"Among various periodontal bacteria, P. gingivalis is highly pathogenic to periodontitis and some systemic diseases outside the oral cavity," Miyauchi said. "In this study, we have addressed these two questions: Does P. gingivalis translocate to the left atrium from the periodontitis lesion? And, if so, does it induce the progression of atrial fibrosis and AFib?"
Using mice infected with P. gingivalis, the researchers confirmed the movement of the bacterium from the site of dental inflammation to the left atrium, the upper heart chamber where AFib originates, via the bloodstream. They did this by testing the DNA of the bacterium in the mouth and the heart and finding that they matched.
Additionally, P. gingivalis-infected mice showed a higher degree of scar tissue in the atrium (21.9% vs 16.3%) and a higher AFib inducibility (30% vs 5%), which is the ability to trigger an episode of AFib through controlled heart stimulation, than control mice. In a separate human study, researchers analyzed left atrial tissue from 68 patients with AFib and found P. gingivalis there, too. It was present in greater amounts in those patients with severe gum disease.
"P. gingivalis invades the circulatory system via the periodontal lesions and further translocates to the left atrium, where its bacterial load correlates with the clinical severity of periodontitis," said Miyauchi. "Once in the atrium, it exacerbates atrial fibrosis, which results in higher AFib inducibility. Therefore, periodontal treatment, which can block the gateway of P. gingivalis translocation, may play an important role in AFib prevention and treatment."
Translating that into plain language, Miyauchi is saying that because the severity of gum disease correlated with the amount of bacteria found in the heart's upper chamber, a way of preventing the movement of bacteria from the mouth to the heart, and thereby reducing the risk of developing AFib, is to maintain good oral hygiene.
"For the next step, we're investigating the specific mechanisms by which P. gingivalis affects atrial cardiomyocytes [heart muscle cells]," Miyauchi said. "We're also now focusing on establishing a collaborative medical and dental system in Hiroshima Prefecture to treat cardiovascular diseases, including atrial fibrillation. We aim to expand this initiative nationwide in the future."

Study Finds No Significant Link Between Dental Fractures and Amalgam Restorations

2025-05-18 - 2025-05

Brazil: A recent case-control study published in the Journal of Applied Oral Science has found no significant association between dental fractures and the presence of silver amalgam restorations. The research concluded that the type of restorative material, including amalgam and composite resin, did not notably impact the risk of tooth fractures, challenging previous assumptions about amalgam's role in dental failures.
Led by Luana Dos Santos Souza from the Universidade Estadual Paulista, Instituto de Ciencia e Tecnologia, Departamento de Odontologia Restauradora, Sao Jose dos Campos, Sao Paulo, the study explored whether amalgam restorations increased the risk of dental fractures and assessed the influence of factors such as restoration size and wear facets.
The investigation involved 25 patients with fractured teeth restored with amalgam (case group) and 50 patients with non-fractured teeth, either untreated or restored with amalgam, composite resin, or other materials (control group). Researchers evaluated variables such as the type and extent of restorations, the remaining tooth structure, and the presence of wear facets.
Alginate impressions of the teeth were taken to create plaster models, which were then assessed by two calibrated examiners using digital calipers to measure the size and extent of fractures or restorations. Statistical analyses, including the Chi-square test and odds ratio calculations, were used to identify any significant associations.
Key Findings:
No statistically significant difference was observed in the risk of fractures between teeth restored with silver amalgam and those restored with other materials.
Fractures larger than 3.5 mm showed a fracture risk of 0.53 for amalgam restorations, but without statistical significance.
The presence of wear facets did not notably increase fracture risk in amalgam-restored teeth, with an odds ratio of 1.357.
Based on the results, the researchers concluded that silver amalgam restorations do not significantly contribute to the likelihood of dental fractures. These findings provide important evidence against the belief that amalgam restorations elevate the risk of tooth failure.
"The study suggests that, under its specific conditions, there is no clear association between dental fractures and the presence of silver amalgam restorations," the authors wrote.
The study contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discussion around the safety and performance of amalgam restorations. While supporting their continued use, the authors highlight the need for further research to evaluate other factors affecting restoration longevity across diverse clinical settings and patient populations.

Nightly Neglect? Study Links Skipping Brushing to Sudden Heart Attacks - Expert Weighs In

2025-05-13 - 2025-05

The study in question, often cited in these alarming articles, explores the connection between oral hygiene and overall health. Read ahead to know what the expert says!
In the realm of health and wellness, the connections between different bodily systems are constantly being explored. Recent reports have surfaced, drawing a potentially alarming link between a seemingly routine habit, or lack thereof, and a critical cardiovascular event: sudden heart attacks. Specifically, a study has been cited suggesting that neglecting to brush one's teeth at night could elevate this risk. While such findings understandably generate concern, it becomes imperative to delve beyond the headlines and critically examine the scientific basis and expert perspectives surrounding this alleged association.
To shed light on this important matter, we turn to Dr. Shrey Kumar Srivastav, a Senior Consultant and General Physician at Sharda Hospital in Noida, for his insightful analysis.
The study in question, often cited in these alarming articles, explores the connection between oral hygiene and overall health. It suggests that bacteria present in gum disease can enter the bloodstream and contribute to inflammation, a known risk factor for heart disease. The logic follows that skipping brushing, especially at night, allows more bacteria to thrive, potentially increasing this risk.
However, Dr Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant and General Physician at Sharda Hospital in Noida, urges caution against jumping to definitive conclusions. "While there is definitely a well-established link between poor oral health and several systemic diseases, including cardiovascular issues, the idea that simply not brushing at night directly causes sudden heart attacks is an oversimplification," he clarifies.
Dr Srivastav emphasises that the study likely points to a correlation, not a direct cause-and-effect relationship. "People who neglect their oral hygiene might also have other unhealthy habits or underlying health conditions that contribute to heart disease. Factors like diet, smoking, lack of exercise, and pre-existing conditions play a much more significant role in determining heart attack risk," he explains.
Think of it this way: someone who doesn't brush their teeth at night might also be less likely to floss, eat a balanced diet, or visit the dentist regularly. These are all factors that can indirectly impact cardiovascular health.
So, should you ditch your toothbrush at night? Absolutely not!
Dr Srivastav stresses that maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for overall well-being. "Brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and going for dental check-ups are essential for preventing gum disease and other oral health problems. While it might not be the sole determinant of your heart attack risk, it's a piece of the puzzle."
Key Takeaway!
While the study highlights the importance of oral health, the link to sudden heart attacks due to only skipping nighttime brushing is likely an exaggeration. Focus on a holistic approach to health, which includes:
Consistent oral hygiene: Brushing twice a day (morning and night), flossing daily.
Balanced diet: Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Regular exercise: Aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Avoiding smoking: A major risk factor for both heart disease and gum disease.
Regular check-ups: Visiting both your dentist and your general physician for routine screenings.
Don't let sensational headlines scare you into drastic changes. Instead, focus on building healthy habits across the board.

Education innovation award supports study on AI use in dentistry

2025-05-02 - 2025-05

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize the practice of dentistry, from real-time diagnostics to enhanced treatment planning, and MUSC's Sonali Rathore, BDS, isn't alone in this belief. The American Dental Association agrees, noting the rapid rise of AI in the field and even investing in its future. At the Medical University of South Carolina's James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine, Rathore is putting that potential to the test in the classroom and beyond.
Rathore, an associate professor and director of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology in the CDM, is evaluating an AI-powered dental software platform known as Second Opinion to determine its effectiveness in identifying and diagnosing dental caries, commonly known as cavities or tooth decay.
Second Opinion, developed by dental AI company Pearl, states on its website that it offers dentists "a second set of eyes." Rathore said the technology is a valuable tool for dentists and patients alike - and it not only enhances clinical accuracy, but it improves the patient experience.
"AI has been shown to function as a supportive aid, offering real-time diagnostic assistance while the patient is still in the chair," she said. "Additionally, patients appreciate being able to visualize their proposed treatment plans, including annotated images of their teeth and dental conditions."
Rathore was recognized with MUSC's 2024 Education Innovation Award for her year-long project, which she began last fall. The $15,000 award, which was granted by the MUSC Education Innovation Cabinet, overseen by Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost Lisa Saladin, PT, Ph.D., recognizes faculty members engaged in research that creates innovation in the education space.
"We look forward to the results of Dr. Rathore's innovative pilot project, exploring the applications of AI in dentistry as well as the development of simulated learning environments and personalized learning experiences for students," said Saladin. "The EIC seeks to fund novel projects that encourage student learning by looking at learning through a different lens - one that promotes exploration, resourcefulness and creativity to answer questions and find solutions. It's always exciting to see our faculty members innovative approaches to learning."
Rathore's pilot study, titled "Transforming Dental Education through AI," builds on the exponential growth of AI in dentistry by comparing the diagnostic accuracy of second- and third-year dental students with that of the AI software. Using de-identified bitewing radiographs, or X-rays, that show the various stages of proximal (between the teeth) caries, students will then document their findings, using a standardized form. Their results will then be compared to a gold standard reference to evaluate both the student and AI's performance.
"If this pilot study shows that the AI software performs on par with the gold standard, it could serve as a valuable supplemental learning tool in both didactic and clinical dental education," she said. "Students are enthusiastic about the software's potential, and it could significantly enhance how they learn to diagnose."
For Rathore, preparing students for that future is essential. "AI is poised to transform dental practice, and many clinicians have already begun integrating it into their workflows. As AI continues to advance, it's critical that our students are well-versed in the latest digital tools shaping modern dental care."
Rathore's work reflects the CDM's broader commitment to integrating innovation into dental education. As her project continues, she believes it will serve as a model for how technology can empower today's dental students while also supporting an increasingly digital and patient-centered care environment.

New drug therapy with natural compound shows promise against periodontal diseases

2025-04-30 - 2025-04

US researchers discovered in a previous clinical study that the chronic gum inflammation can promote an ageing-related condition called 'senescence', even in younger tissues.
Senescent cells, which have permanently ceased to divide in response to stress, secrete inflammatory molecules that increase tissue damage, impair healing, and accelerate disease severity.
Now, a new translational study by the same research team at Penn Dental Medicine reveals that targeting senescent cell burden could be an effective strategy for managing periodontal disease and promoting oral health.
In a paper published in the Journal of Dental Research, the researchers showed that an anti-senescence therapy or 'senotherapy', consisting of an enzyme inhibitor called dasatinib and a natural flavonoid plant compound called quercetin, reduced markers of senescence and associated periodontal inflammation and bone loss in lab-dish and animal models.
Senotherapies, which target senescent cells by eliminating them or suppressing their harmful effects, are gaining attention for a host of potential clinical applications, and now periodontal diseases as well.
In their new study, the team used the dasatinib-quercetin (DQ) combination, a senotherapy that has shown an ability to reduce senescent cell numbers and senescence markers in other clinical contexts.
In lab-dish experiments, the team exposed gum cells called keratinocytes to periodontitis-associated bacteria, which induced a senescence-like molecular signature. Treatment with DQ significantly weakened this signature-as did quercetin alone comparably.
The results extended to a live animal model as well. In aging mice, which exhibit features of senescence as they age, DQ treatment significantly decreased senescence markers and senescence-associated inflammatory mediators in gum tissues, restoring them to levels observed in young, non-senescent gums. Importantly, the DQ supplements also prevented much of the loss of alveolar bone, suggesting that senotherapy could help preserve the structural integrity of the periodontium.
"These results are consistent with our previous studies and a growing body of research that shows the powerful role of natural compounds, like quercetin, in promoting oral and systemic health," Dr Esra Sahingur said.

Global survey highlights the challenges of VR-haptic technology in dental education

2025-04-29 - 2025-04

A recent global survey of 156 institutions by a Finnish team reveals strong interest in VR-haptic technology for dental training, yet significant barriers impede widespread adoption.
Combining virtual reality with force feedback, VR-haptic technology is becoming more and more common in dental education where it complements traditional preclinical hand skill training methods.
The aim of the present study was to understand dental educators' perceptions and needs regarding the acceptability and application of VR-haptics in dental education, as well as to gather suggestions for system improvements.
Over a third of 387 respondents cited technical limitations in current systems, such as insufficient haptic precision and restricted procedural options, which undermine skill transfer to real patient care. Financial constraints were another major hurdle, with 28 per cent of institutions struggling to afford devices, leading to shortages and limited student access.
Resistance to change also persists: 24 per cent noted low acceptance among educators and students, driven by disruptions to traditional teaching methods. Additionally, 13 per cent highlighted time-intensive curriculum adaptations and training requirements as critical obstacles.
To address these challenges, the authors recommend further hardware and software development, seeking cost-reduction innovations, and providing targeted faculty training to demonstrate VR-haptics' educational benefits.
They point out that future success hinges on multidisciplinary collaboration-particularly among restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, and endodontics-to develop realistic, discipline-specific training scenarios.

Scientists Successfully Grow Human Tooth in Lab, With Aim of Implanting in Humans

2025-04-27 - 2025-04

Scientists at King's College London say they've successfully grown a human tooth in a lab for the first time.
As detailed in a paper published in the journal ACS Macro Letters, the team said it uncovered a potential way to regrow teeth in humans as a natural alternative to conventional dental fillings and implants, research they say could "revolutionize dental care."
The researchers claim they've developed a new type of material that enables cells to communicate with one another, essentially allowing one cell to "tell" another to differentiate itself into a new tooth cell.
In other words, it mimics the way teeth grow naturally, an ability we lose as we grow older.
"We developed this material in collaboration with Imperial College to replicate the environment around the cells in the body, known as the matrix," explained author and King's College London PhD student Xuechen Zhang in a statement. "This meant that when we introduced the cultured cells, they were able to send signals to each other to start the tooth formation process."
"Previous attempts had failed, as all the signals were sent in one go," he added. "This new material releases signals slowly over time, replicating what happens in the body."
However, porting the discovery from the lab, and transforming it into a viable treatment will require years of research.
"We have different ideas to put the teeth inside the mouth," Xuechen said."We could transplant the young tooth cells at the location of the missing tooth and let them grow inside mouth. Alternatively, we could create the whole tooth in the lab before placing it in the patient's mouth."
While we're still some ways away from applying the findings to human subjects, in theory the approach could have some significant advantages over conventional treatments like fillings and implants.
"Fillings aren't the best solution for repairing teeth," said Xuechen. "Over time, they will weaken tooth structure, have a limited lifespan, and can lead to further decay or sensitivity."
"Implants require invasive surgery and good combination of implants and alveolar bone," he added. "Both solutions are artificial and don't fully restore natural tooth function, potentially leading to long-term complications."
The new approach, in contrast, could offer a better long-term solution.
"Lab-grown teeth would naturally regenerate, integrating into the jaw as real teeth," Xuechen explained. "They would be stronger, longer lasting, and free from rejection risks, offering a more durable and biologically compatible solution than fillings or implants."
While nobody knows whether lab-grown teeth will become a viable dental treatment, experts remain optimistic.
"This new technology of regrowing teeth is very exciting and could be a game-changer for dentists," King's College clinical lecturer in prosthodontics Saoirse O'Toole, who was not involved in the study, told the BBC. "Will it come in my lifetime of practice? Possibly. In my children's dental lifetimes? Maybe. But in my children's children's lifetimes, hopefully."

Biomarkers Identified For Better Diagnosis Of Peri-Implantitis

2025-04-23 - 2025-04

Researchers in South Korea have identified unique genetic markers of the chronic inflammatory disease that affects dental implants.

A growing geriatric population, greater awareness of oral hygiene, rising income levels, and longer life expectancy have made Asia Pacific one of the largest markets for dental implants. However, this rise is marked by the growing prevalence of Peri-Implantitis (PI), a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the soft and hard gum tissues around dental implants.

The current treatment for PI is similar to that of periodontitis, also a chronic inflammatory gum disease, but underlying differences in the mechanism of these conditions remain unknown.
In a study, researchers at Pusan National University, South Korea, discovered a unique link between PI and activated fibroblasts. They also identified specific marker genes that may improve diagnosis and treatment. The study was published in the Journal of Dentistry.
As with natural teeth, bacteria can build up below the gum line at the base of an implant. Over time, this can cause inflammation and tissue damage. If left untreated, it can lead to bone loss under the implant, making the condition difficult to manage and prone to recurrence. It can even lead to implant failure.
For the study, researchers collected gum tissue from ten people with both conditions- Peri-Implantitis and periodontitis. They extracted RNA and used sequencing and bioinformatics to examine gene activity, immune responses, and tissue changes.
The study found that activated fibroblasts, cells in the connective tissue that have started to proliferate abnormally, may play a key role in peri-implantitis. The study also identified three specific marker genes that were more active in peri-implantitis, suggesting they could serve as specific biomarkers for the disease.
"This study provides essential insights into the role of activated fibroblasts as a distinctive factor in the pathogenesis of peri-implantitis versus periodontitis. Although peri-implantitis and periodontitis share clinical similarities, they exhibit distinct biological pathways. This research identifies three key biomarkers-ACTA2, FAP, and PDGFRB-that are markedly overexpressed in peri-implantitis. These biomarkers have the potential to facilitate differential diagnosis and contribute to the development of peri-implantitis-specific therapeutic approaches," said Yun Hak Kim, associate professor at Pusan National University's School of Medicine and lead researcher.
Biomarker-based diagnostics could reduce misdiagnosis between PI and periodontitis, improve patient outcomes, and allow for more targeted treatments, especially for high-risk individuals.
"These findings could drive significant advancements in clinical strategies for diagnosing and treating peri-implantitis," added Kim.
The differentially expressed genes identified in the study may guide the development of treatments tailored to PI's distinct biology. "Over the next 5-10 years, this study's findings could serve as a fundamental basis for the development of highly specialized, targeted therapies addressing peri-implantitis, specifically focusing on its unique biological and immunological characteristics compared to periodontitis," said Kim.

ADA NSW selects D2L for more enhanced learning experience

2025-04-22 - 2025-04

D2L, a global learning technology company, has been chosen by the Australian Dental Association New South Wales Branch (ADA NSW) to support member growth by providing an enhanced learning experience with more modes of learning delivery for its more than 5000 members.
ADA NSW Centre for Professional Development (CPD) provides world-class education and training to support dentistry career growth at every stage, including students, recently graduated dentists, early career dentists, established practitioners, dental practice owners and retirees.
By implementing the D2L Brightspace Learning Management System (LMS), ADA NSW aims to optimise the courses it offers to each segment to see that the association stays relevant and connected to its members at every career stage.
ADA NSW provides hands-on practical skills workshops in its clinical space and digital dentistry training, including using artificial intelligence, 3D printing, and high-definition intraoral scanning in its state-of-the-art digital learning space.
ADA NSW currently generates around 30 per cent of its revenue from its education program and offers around 200 courses annually to around 4000 participants. With the rollout of D2L Brightspace, ADA NSW is looking to augment its course offering and expand.
"Whilst there has been an increase in demand for hybrid learning due to a shift in our members' needs and preferences, the practical nature of dentistry still benefits from face-to-face, hands-on practice," ADA NSW clinical education principal and board member Dr Cathleen Dong said.
ADA NSW can increasingly offer online learning via D2L Brightspace, including lecture-based content and on-demand webinars. These courses are generally developed and taught by subject matter experts and specialists and are designed to help prepare members for the practical, hands-on workshops that they have to attend in person.
"By implementing D2L Brightspace, we want to enhance the association's digital workflow. This will enable continuous learning, including reflection and self-assessment, and help assess our member's learning needs at each phase of their careers," Dr Dong said.

Widespread Dental Pulp Calcification Observed in SLE Patient on Long-Term Steroid Therapy: Case Report

2025-04-20 - 2025-04

China: A recent case study published in The Open Dentistry Journal sheds light on a dental issue faced by patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) treated with long-term glucocorticoids (GCs). SLE is an autoimmune disease that causes widespread inflammation, and glucocorticoids are often prescribed to manage its symptoms. However, prolonged use of these medications can lead to complications, including pulp cavity calcification in the teeth.
The case involved a 30-year-old woman diagnosed with SLE at 17 and treated with methylprednisolone for 13 years. She visited the dental clinic with a fractured tooth (tooth 11) and reported sensitivity to cold. Examination and diagnostic tests, including electric pulp testing and panoramic radiographs, revealed chronic pulpitis and calcification of the pulp cavity in the affected teeth. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) confirmed that pulp calcification extended beyond the damaged teeth.
The long-term use of glucocorticoids raised concerns about the role these medications might play in the calcification of her dental pulp. While electric pulp testing indicated normal pulp sensitivity, the radiographs and CBCT scans revealed root canal calcification, complicating the treatment. Initially, a root canal treatment (RCT) was recommended, but the calcification made it difficult to access the root apex.
Given the severity of calcification, the treatment plan was modified. A pulpotomy was performed, and the root canals were temporarily sealed with zinc oxide-eugenol cement. Follow-up imaging confirmed that calcification affected all of the patient's teeth, making traditional RCT less viable. Further treatment included calcium hydroxide and composite resin to seal the canals, followed by dental crown preparation.
After a year of follow-up, the patient reported no discomfort or inflammation. However, the calcification in the teeth remained a concern. This case highlights the challenges of treating dental issues in patients with SLE on long-term glucocorticoid therapy. The study emphasizes the need for regular dental check-ups for these patients and suggests that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary to address their medical and dental needs.
The case study also emphasizes the importance of early intervention in preventing long-term dental complications in SLE patients. As glucocorticoids can cause significant dental issues, healthcare providers should work together to ensure comprehensive care and minimize the impact of such treatments on oral health.
"Based on the patient's long-term glucocorticoid use and supporting studies, it appears that extended GC therapy significantly contributes to widespread dental pulp calcification," Shenjie Xu, Department of Oral Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China, and colleagues noted. They added, "When multiple teeth are involved, root canal treatment becomes unfeasible."
They concluded, "Hence, a multidisciplinary approach is essential for managing SLE or other chronic conditions in patients on prolonged GC therapy."

Postoperative Rehabilitation demonstrated preventive role against relapse after osseous temporomandibular joint ankylosis surgery: Study

2025-04-18 - 2025-04

A new study published in the journal of BMC Oral Health showed that during the unusually long clinical follow-up period of 24 months, postoperative rehabilitation was found effective for prevention of recurrence following TMJA surgery.
Temporomandibular joint ankylosis (TMJA) is a disorder in which the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) becomes permanently stuck in a forced position due to an intracapsular lesion, resulting in significantly reduced mandible motion. As a result, not only severe trismus, but also masticatory function and facial deformities might impair aesthetics in afflicted people.
TMJA is classified into fibrous ankylosis and bony ankylosis, with the latter frequently causing a severe condylar dysfunction and impairing quality of life (QOL). Gap arthroplasty (GA), which involves excising any bony adhesion between the joint space and mandibular condyle without inserting it into the resulting gap, and interpositional gap arthroplasty (IPG), which involves creating a gap and then inserting an artificial material or temporalis myofascial flap (TMF) for example, are two related surgical procedures that have been reported.
The goal of surgical therapy for TMJA is to improve patient quality of life by reducing ankylosis, restoring condylar function, avoiding ankylosis recurrence, and enhancing facial attractiveness. Thus, this study sought to clarify and analyze the association between the operational method, the rehabilitation time, and maximum incisal opening (MIO), with an emphasis on mouth opening following surgical treatment for TMJA.
12 patients who had surgery for gap or interpositional arthroplasty were included. The course of maximal incisal opening in patients was split by surgical procedure, gap size, and rehabilitation duration, with a focus on relapse of maximal incisal opening. The average recurrence of maximum incisal opening following surgery in patients with a gap size ≥ 15 mm was 12.0 ± 11.2 mm, whereas in those with a gap size < 15 mm was 8.9 ± 12.6 mm.
The average relapse of maximum incisal opening following surgery in patients with gap arthroplasty was 12.3 ± 7.6 mm, whereas those with interpositional arthroplasty was 7.5 ± 15.2 mm. After surgery, patients with less than 12 months of rehabilitation had an average relapse of 14.1 ± 10.7 mm, whereas those with more than 12 months had an average recurrence of 7.4 ± 16.3 mm.
Overall, the findings of this retrospective study over a relatively long clinical follow-up period of 24 months demonstrate the relevance of postoperative rehabilitation in avoiding recurrence following TMJA surgery.

Advancing Biomedical Research on Salivary Antioxidants: Exploring the Significance in Oral Precancer and Cancer

2025-04-16 - 2025-04

Introduction
Saliva is a convenient and acceptable bodily fluid comprising elements sourced from mucosal linings, gingival crevices, and both major and minor salivary glands. Additionally, saliva houses a diverse array of chemical compounds and microorganisms that inhabit the oral cavity and external substances. As such, it offers a potential window into the interplay between the host and the environment.1 Notably, the antioxidant system present in saliva serves as a crucial defense mechanism, safeguarding the oral mucosa against oral pathogens. Human saliva contains a variety of distinct antioxidant compounds.
To maintain the homeostasis of the oral cavity in a healthy person, there is a proper balance between oxidative stress and the antioxidant system. If there is any imbalance between these systems, it leads to an increase in the free radicals’ status and results in disease or disorder.3 According to the current definition, oxidative stress represents the disturbance of redox-dependent signaling pathways and the processes they control. Oxidative stress is required for a healthy person in normal daily life in the process of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation. This oxidation process is part of the regulatory biochemical function, which releases free radicals and maintains the body’s equilibrium through the production of antioxidants.
During biological processes, endogenous free radicals are generated, capable of associating with various particles. These radicals, characterized by unpaired electrons, exhibit heightened reactivity. Due to their pronounced instability and brief lifespan, they readily engage in reactions, seeking to acquire electrons from other molecules. This quest for electrons induces irreversible alterations in the chemical and physical attributes of cells and their constituents. Key cellular components including lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids are susceptible to the detrimental impact of these radicals, resulting in oxidative harm to cells, tissues, and organs.
When an excess of free radicals is produced and the levels of antioxidants are insufficient, the resulting imbalance can contribute to conditions such as tumors, mutagenesis, and carcinogenesis. However, it is important to note that the generation of free radicals is not inherently negative. Numerous researchers have conducted investigations elucidating the role of free radicals in both health and disease contexts. In the physiologic process, free radicals will be produced during tissue repair, ATP synthesis, and immune response.7 The main etiologic causative agents identified in oral diseases that induce the formation of free radicals include UV radiation, drugs such as corticosteroids, anticancer drugs, pesticides, immune disturbance, diet, pollution, dental materials, alcohol, smoking, stress, and lifestyle.
To counteract these free radicals, a protective mechanism, such as antioxidants, will be released to protect and neutralize free radicals, (ie, improve the oxidative status), and maintain the health of the individual. If the optimal balance between the oxidants and antioxidants is broken, then the natural defense system fails, which leads to various diseases and disorders. Antioxidants, also called free radical scavengers, are molecules capable of inhibiting the oxidation of another molecule. Antioxidants are classified based on function, nature and action, and source Currently, there is a burgeoning fascination with the connection between antioxidants and oral diseases, as the precise impact of excessive reactive oxygen species production stemming from inflammation or insufficient antioxidant presence remains enigmatic. This article explores the role of saliva in revealing the interplay between oxidative stress and oral health, emphasizing the importance of antioxidants in maintaining balance and preventing diseases.
Antioxidants in Saliva
Human whole saliva is the clear, viscous fluid secreted by the 3 pairs of major salivary glands, numerous minor salivary glands, and gingival crevicular fluid. Saliva is 98% water, and the remaining 2% is solid particles such as proteins, electrolytes, enzymes, hormones, and other substances. Digestion is the main function of saliva, which breaks down the larger molecules into smaller molecules with the help of enzymes and nonenzymatic compounds. Human saliva is rich in antioxidant compounds that help prevent the oxidation process and damage to cells, especially genetic material in the nucleus. Antioxidants not only boost the immune system but also decrease the levels of lipids, preventing the deposition of lipids in the blood vessels. The important primary antioxidants in saliva that have a role in oral diseases include nonenzymatic antioxidants such as carotenoids, uric acid, albumin, glutathione, bilirubin, vitamins A and C, and transferrin, and enzyme antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase, proteases, lipases, catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase, and glutathione transferase (Figure 1).9,10 These salivary antioxidative biomarkers in children, adults, and older adults generally do not vary based on sex but rather with age.

HKU Study: Oral Microbiota Key in Autism Screening

2025-04-08 - 2025-04

A cross-disciplinary research team from the Faculty of Dentistry and the Department of Psychology of the University of Hong Kong (HKU) has found promising connection between oral microbiota and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Their study published in the Journal of Dentistry, introduces a prediction model with an 81% accuracy rate for identifying children with autism through simple oral sampling.
ASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition characterised by social communication difficulties, as well as restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests. ASD has emerged as a critical global public health challenge, with prevalence rates steadily rising – affecting 1 in 36 children in the United States and approximately 1 in 49 children in Hong Kong's educational system. Early identification and intervention for ASD is crucial, yet diagnosis typically occurs around age 5, with milder cases often identified when social demands exceed capabilities. Current screening methods rely heavily on subjective observations by teachers and caregivers, with accuracy varying based on the observer's understanding of ASD.
Emerging research highlights microbiome biomarkers as promising, objective screening tools that could complement existing methods, improving early detection and enabling timely intervention during critical developmental stages. Prior studies suggest the gut and oral microbiome play key roles in inflammation, immune dysfunction, and gut-brain axis disruption, all linked to ASD. Since digestion starts in the mouth, analysing oral bacteria could aid early autism identification. While gut microbiota's connection to autism has been explored, research on oral microbiota remains limited.
In view of this, a cross-disciplinary research team combining the expertise of Professor Cynthia Kar Yung Yiu, Associate Professor Rory Munro Watt from the HKU Faculty of Dentistry, along with Dr Charles Cheuk-fung Hau and Senior Technical Officer Mr Raymond Wai-man Tong, together with Senior Lecturer and PhD candidate Jacqueline Wai-yan Tang and Associate Professor Kathy Kar-man Shum from the Department of Psychology was formed to explore the differences in oral microbiota between children with ASD and neurotypical children.
The research team examined oral bacterial samples from 25 children with autism and 30 neurotypical children aged 3-6. Their analysis revealed significant differences in bacterial communities, with 11 specific bacterial species showing particularly strong potential as biomarkers for ASD.
Based on the findings, the team developed a prediction model with an 81% accuracy rate for identifying children with autism. This innovation paves the way for a simple, non-invasive screening tool that could be integrated into routine dental check-ups for children, enabling early referral for professional evaluation.
This groundbreaking collaboration provides a promising foundation for developing practical, non-invasive screening tools to complement existing methods. The team envisions a future where a quick oral swab during regular dental visits could help identify children who would benefit from early intervention, when therapy is most effective. The next phase of the study will expand the sample size to further validate and refine this innovative technology, with the ultimate goal of making it widely accessible.

Can a chewing gum fight viruses? This plant-based gum can trap and neutralise viruses, says study

2025-04-07 - 2025-04

It might sound like something out of science fiction, but according to researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, your next weapon against flu and herpes might just be, a piece of gum. Yes, really.
Published in Molecular Therapy, and conducted by researchers at the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and collaborators in Finland, this new study explores how a natural, plant-based chewing gum could help reduce the spread of viruses that affect millions of people around the world. The results are said to be surprisingly impressive.
Here’s all you need to know about the gum that might help fight viruses:
Made from beans: Specifically, lablab beans (also known as Lablab purpureus), a natural food source that contains a powerful protein called FRIL, can can trap and neutralise viruses in the mouth, where many infections actually begin.
Works against herpes and flu: The gum was tested on two strains of herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2) and two strains of influenza (H1N1 and H3N2). All four are incredibly common and highly contagious, and the gum managed to slash their viral loads by over 95 percent.
Mouth matters: Many viruses spread more efficiently through the mouth than through the nose. According to the study, targeting the oral cavity with something as simple as chewing gum could be a clever way to slow down transmission before viruses get a chance to cause serious damage.
Gum magic for health: The same research team previously tested a similar gum on COVID-19 saliva samples and got the same jaw-dropping result-a 95 percent drop in viral load. That success is now in clinical trials, and this new study builds directly on that work.

NUS researchers combine 3D bioprinting with AI to personalise oral soft tissue grafts

2025-04-04 - 2025-04

Artificial intelligence streamlines the optimisation of bioprinting parameters for oral soft tissue grafts, reducing time and resource demands while enabling efficient, personalised dental treatments
A team of researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) has developed a method to fabricate personalised gingival (gum) tissue grafts using an innovative combination of 3D bioprinting and artificial intelligence (AI).
Led by Assistant Professor Gopu Sriram from NUS Faculty of Dentistry, the team's approach presents a more customisable and less invasive alternative to traditional grafting methods, which often involve harvesting tissue from the patient's mouth - a process that can be both uncomfortable and constrained by the availability of suitable tissue.
The 3D bioprinting and AI-enabled technique has the potential to address key challenges in dental procedures more effectively, such as repairing gum defects caused by periodontal disease or complications from dental implants. For instance, by enabling the precise fabrication of tissue constructs tailored to individual patients, the method can significantly improve treatment outcomes, reduce patient discomfort, and minimise the risk of complications, such as infections, during recovery.
The team's research was published in the journal Advanced Healthcare Materials on 17 December 2024, and was supported by grants from National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC) and National University Health System (NUHS).
Turbocharging the bioprinting process with AI
Gum tissue grafts are essential in dental care, particularly for addressing mucogingival defects such as gum recession, and complications arising from periodontal disease or dental implants. Typically, these grafts are harvested from the patient's mouth. Though effective, these procedures come with significant drawbacks: patient discomfort, limited tissue availability, and a higher risk of postoperative complications.
To overcome these challenges, the researchers turned to 3D bioprinting, a technique that fabricates custom-made tissue grafts tailored to the specific dimensions of each patient's defect. They developed a specialised bio-ink which supports the growth of healthy cells, while also ensuring the material can be printed accurately and holds its shape and structure.
However, the viability of 3D bioprinting is only as good as the parameters applied during the process. Factors such as extrusion pressure, print speed, nozzle dimensions, bio-ink viscosity and printhead temperature all play a crucial role in determining the final properties and performance of the printed component. Tuning these parameters has traditionally been done through tedious, manual trial-and-error experiments that are extremely time- and resource-consuming.
"To speed up the 3D bioprinting process, we integrated AI into our workflow to address this critical bottleneck," said Professor Dean Ho, Head of the Department of Biomedical Engineering in the College of Design and Engineering at NUS, and co-corresponding author of the research paper. "This approach greatly streamlines the process by reducing the number of experiments needed to optimise the bioprinting parameters - from potentially thousands to just 25 combinations," added Prof Ho, who is also Director of the Institute for Digital Medicine (WisDM) at NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, and N.1 Institute for Health (N.1) at NUS.
This tremendous efficiency boost afforded by the team's AI-driven workflow saves time and resources while ensuring the creation of tissue constructs with precise dimensions and structural integrity.
"Our study is among the first to specifically integrate 3D bioprinting and AI technologies for the biofabrication of customised oral soft tissue constructs," said Asst Prof Sriram, who is also the Thrust Co-Lead of Dental and Craniofacial 3DP Applications at NUS Centre for Additive Manufacturing (AM.NUS). "3D bioprinting is by far more challenging than conventional 3D printing because it involves living cells, which introduce a host of complexities to the printing process."
The bioprinted gum tissue grafts exhibited strong biomimetic properties, maintaining over 90% cell viability immediately after printing and throughout an 18-day culture period. The grafts also retained their shape and structural integrity, while histological analyses confirmed the presence of key proteins and a multi-layered structure closely resembling natural gum tissue.
The future of dental care
In dentistry, the ability to produce personalised gum tissue grafts with improved efficiency, structural integrity, and biomimetic properties could address longstanding clinical challenges associated with periodontal diseases and dental implants. "This research demonstrates how AI and 3D bioprinting can converge to solve complex medical problems through precision medicine," added Asst Prof Sriram. "By optimising tissue grafts for individual patients, we can reduce the invasiveness of dental procedures while ensuring better healing and recovery."
Excitingly, the potential implications of this research extend beyond dentistry. "3D bioprinting allows us to create tissue grafts that precisely match the dimensions of a patient's wounds, potentially reducing or eliminating the need to harvest tissue from the patient's body," said Asst Prof Sriram.
"This level of customisation minimises graft distortion and tension during wound closure, reducing the risk of complications, surgery time and discomfort to the patients." said Dr Jacob Chew, a periodontist, co-investigator of the study, and Academic Fellow at NUS Faculty of Dentistry.
Furthermore, the scarless healing characteristics of oral tissue provide a unique advantage, as insights from this study could inform the fabrication of similar grafts for other barrier tissues, such as skin, potentially aiding in the scarless healing of skin wounds.
Future research will focus on translating these findings from bench to bedside. The team plans to conduct in vivo studies to assess the integration and stability of the grafts in oral environments. They also aim to explore the integration of blood vessels into the grafts through multi-material bioprinting to create more complex and functional constructs. With these developments, the researchers hope to advance the field of regenerative dentistry while paving the way for broader applications in tissue engineering.

Drinking This May Increase Your Risk of Oral Cancer, Finds New Study

2025-04-02 - 2025-04

It's a refresher, especially as the temps turn up—but 13,000 people will likely die from oral cancer in the United States this year alone.
Teeth can be a tell-tale sign of good health, continual research shows, including one recent study that found the number of teeth at a certain age can hint at an individual’s likelihood to live 100 years.
Indeed the mouth is a window into wellness: Nearly 60,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, estimates the American Cancer Society, and 12,770 could see their lives shortened—and though it’s not too tough to diagnose, it can be difficult to diagnose early. The Cleveland Clinic states that many cases aren’t detected until the cancer has progressed to a late stage.
Dental exams can catch early symptoms, and quitting smoking is one way to minimize oral cancer risk. So, says a new study, is avoiding sugary drinks.
In March 2025, University of Washington otolaryngology doctors (specializing in research and treatment of the ear, nose and throat) released details of their study on the effects of high sugar-sweetened beverages on oral cavity cancer risk in women. (The Mayo Clinic says the term “oral cavity cancer” is synonymous with “oral cancer” or “mouth cancer” and can present on the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and both the roof and floor of the mouth.)
Published in the medical journal JAMA Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, the study focused on 162,602 women with an average age of 43 years and included smokers and nonsmokers. It analyzed 30 years of data collected by the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS), which investigated chronic disease risk factors in women’s health. Of the participants, 124 were diagnosed with oral cancer.
Researchers found that women who consumed at least one sugar-sweetened drink each day had 4.87 times the risk for oral cancer than those who drank fewer than one sugary beverage in a month.
When narrowed to non-smokers or light smokers, as well as nondrinkers or light drinkers, the risk was even greater—5.46 times so.
The researchers suggest this is more evidence that a regular sweet-drink vice can increase chances of cancer. “High sugar-sweetened beverage intake is associated with various gastrointestinal cancers,” they say, but its association with oral cancer hadn’t yet been explored. The research team told MedPage Today, “This study provides support for ongoing policy pertaining to limiting sugar intake to improve health and limit chronic disease in the general population.”
While this research is a step toward better understanding oral cancer risk factors, more studies, including those involving men, are necessary to confirm results.
The Cleveland Clinic notes that previous studies have found that soda—even diet soda—can increase your risk for diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and coronary vascular disease.
Try swapping that sweet afternoon pick-me-up out for sparkling water or lemon water, which some doctors recommend to cut down on kidney stone risk. And, as always, keep added sugar to a minimum.

Penn Dental Medicine Study Shows Gum Containing Antiviral Protein Reduces Flu, Herpes Transmission

2025-04-02 - 2025-04

PHILADELPHIA, April 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In today's interconnected world, viral diseases contribute to significant global health challenges and economic costs. Seasonal influenza epidemics cause substantial disease burden and economic losses exceeding $11.2 billion annually in the United States alone. Meanwhile, herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), spread primarily through oral contact, infects over two-thirds of the global population and is the leading cause of infectious blindness in Western countries.
Low vaccination rates for influenza viruses and the lack of an HSV vaccine underscore the need for a new approach—one that targets reducing viral loads at the sites where transmission occurs. Now, in a study published in Molecular Therapy, researchers at Penn Dental Medicine and collaborators in Finland, have done just that.
Building on their previous work—now in clinical trial—showing that a similar approach was able to reduce SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19 patient saliva or swab samples by more than 95%, Henry Daniell, W.D. Miller Professor at Penn Dental Medicine, and collaborators tested the ability of a chewing gum made from lablab beans, Lablab purpureus—that naturally contain an antiviral trap protein (FRIL)—to neutralize two herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2) and two influenza. They prepared clinical grade chewing gum to comply with FDA specifications and demonstrated safety and efficacy. Forty mg of a two-gram bean gum tablet was adequate to reduce viral loads by more than 95%, and antiviral efficacy was maintained up to 823 days when chewing gums were stored at room temperature.
Daniell and his colleagues are now looking to use lablab bean powder to tackle bird flu, currently having a significant impact in North America. In the past three months, 54 million birds have been affected by H5N1, and several human infections have been reported in the U.S. and Canada.
Previously, bean powder has been shown by a collaborating laboratory to effectively neutralize H5N1 and H7N9—two strains of influenza A known to cause bird flu. Daniell and colleagues are currently looking to test its use in bird feed to help control bird flu.
"A broad-spectrum antiviral protein (FRIL) present in a natural food product (bean powder) to neutralize not only human flu viruses but also avian (bird) flu is a timely innovation to prevent their infection and transmission," says Daniell.

Restoring Function and Confidence for Longtime CU Dental Patient with Innovative Implant Dentistry

2025-04-02 - 2025-04

For more than 25 years, Rich Hamilton has been a familiar face at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine (CU SDM) clinics. At nearly 90 years old, he has undergone extensive dental treatment at the school. His case showcases the power of innovation, collaboration and person-centered care. Under the guidance of Associate Professor David Gozalo, DDS, MS, fourth-year dental student Malik Jackson played a pivotal role in restoring Hamilton’s ability to eat, speak and smile with confidence.
A History of Dental Innovation
Hamilton's journey with dental implants began years ago, with one of his earliest implants placed by Professor Emeritus Lonnie Johnson, DDS, PhD. Over time, he progressively lost more teeth, and while individual implants and implant-supported bridges replaced them, some gaps remained. As a result, he struggled with essential functions like chewing and speaking. By 2024, his remaining natural teeth had deteriorated due to decay and fractures, requiring extractions and a new treatment approach.
Rather than subjecting Hamilton to additional implant surgeries — given his age and medical considerations — Gozalo and Jackson explored a solution that leveraged his existing implants. Their goal was to provide a long-lasting, functional prosthesis while minimizing surgical intervention.
Overcoming Clinical and Practical Challenges
Planning Hamilton’s restoration involved numerous challenges. One of the most significant was his loss of occlusal vertical dimension — the space between his upper and lower teeth necessary for proper prosthesis placement. Additionally, Hamilton had a strong bite and a history of parafunctional habits like nighttime clenching and grinding, increasing the risk of prosthesis failure.
“In a typical case like this, we would design the prosthesis first and then place implants accordingly,” said Jackson. “With Mr. Hamilton, we had to work backwards, using his existing implants and bone levels to dictate what we could do. It was a complex puzzle, but one that we were determined to solve.”
Despite these obstacles, Hamilton remained enthusiastic and optimistic. “I have complete trust in the students and faculty here,” he said. “They’ve taken such great care of me over the years, and I always know I’m in good hands.”
Leveraging Digital Technology for Precision
To create a customized solution, Gozalo and Jackson employed state-of-the-art digital dentistry techniques. They scanned each implant, capturing their exact positions in Hamilton’s mouth. These digital impressions allowed the dental lab to design an optimal prosthesis using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology.
Gozalo said, “One of the challenges in this case was sourcing components for some of the implants Hamilton had received years ago. Finding compatible parts took extensive research and coordination with manufacturers, adding complexity to the treatment process.”
With the help of Beth Keely, CDT, CAD/CAM manager at Gnathodontics dental laboratory, the team created a prototype that allowed for adjustments and refinements before fabricating the final prosthesis.
“We executed this case using a fully digital workflow,” Jackson explained. “Scanning each implant gave us a precise representation of Mr. Hamilton’s mouth, making it possible to design a prosthesis that would fit seamlessly. The accuracy of CAD/CAM technology made all the difference.”
The Final Restoration: Strength and Aesthetics Combined
Gozalo and Jackson ultimately planned a fixed full-arch implant prosthesis. The restoration utilized a titanium Atlantis® BridgeBase with a stained zirconia shell, offering both durability and natural aesthetics. The titanium base provides strength, ensuring the prosthesis can withstand the forces of Hamilton’s strong bite, while the zirconia overlay delivers a lifelike appearance that blends seamlessly with his natural mouth structure.
“A key advantage of using the Atlantis® BridgeBase in this case was its ability to accommodate limited vertical space,” said Gozalo. “Because the existing implants were originally placed to restore single teeth, they were positioned higher than ideal for a full-arch restoration.” The Atlantis® bar system allowed the team to work within these spatial constraints by providing a rigid, low-profile framework that supported the prosthesis without excessive bulk. This solution ensured a functional and aesthetic outcome while maintaining proper prosthetic dimensions.
By utilizing his five remaining implants — despite them being from different brands — the team maximized existing resources without requiring new implant placements. This approach not only spared Hamilton from additional surgical procedures but also expedited his treatment timeline and improved his overall experience.
“This was one of the most rewarding cases I’ve worked on,” said Jackson. “Seeing Mr. Hamilton’s reaction when we delivered the final prosthesis was incredible. He was so happy to have his smile and function back.”
A Transformative Learning Experience
For Jackson, working on Hamilton’s case was a defining moment in his dental education. “This case challenged me to think critically and creatively,” he reflected. “Rather than following a standard treatment plan, we had to adapt to the unique constraints presented by his existing implants and anatomy. The experience reinforced the importance of digital dentistry and how technology can help us provide patient-centered solutions.”
Gozalo’s mentorship played a crucial role in guiding Jackson through the complexities of the case, from planning to execution. “This was more than just placing a prosthesis — it was about problem-solving, thinking outside the box and ensuring that our patient could regain his quality of life,” Jackson said.
A Renewed Smile and Improved Quality of Life
Hamilton’s case exemplifies the transformative power of modern dentistry. His journey highlights the impact of digital workflows, the evolution of implant dentistry and the invaluable hands-on learning experiences that CU SDM provides its students.
For Hamilton, the result is more than just a new set of teeth — it is a renewed ability to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, like eating and speaking comfortably. And for Jackson, it is an unforgettable milestone in his journey to becoming a skilled and compassionate dentist.

UAlbany study links lack of oral health care to pregnancy complications

2025-04-01 - 2025-04

ALBANY, N.Y. - A new study from the University at Albany's Oral Health Workforce Research Center has identified a concerning link between inadequate oral health care and complications during pregnancy. The research highlights the need for increased awareness and access to dental services for expectant mothers.
"Less than half of pregnant women actually seek oral health care," said Dr. Simona Surdu, the director of the Oral Health Workforce Research Center at UAlbany. "And that was kind of like a very big red flag for us."
The study found that certain minority groups and low-income individuals are less likely to access oral health services. Additionally, many pregnant women are not informed about the importance of oral health during pregnancy, and some face difficulties finding dentists willing to treat them or accept Medicaid beneficiaries. "It's a misconception about the safety of providing oral health care to pregnant women throughout the pregnancy," Dr. Surdu said. "It's safe and it's actually crucial to provide care, oral health care to pregnant women."
Pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing oral health diseases due to biological and hormonal changes, dietary shifts, and morning sickness, which can alter the pH of saliva and affect oral bacteria and microbiomes. "We know that 60% to 75% of pregnant women actually are diagnosed with periodontal disease," said Dr. Surdu.
The research linked oral health issues to maternal health problems, such as gestational diabetes and hypertension disorders during pregnancy. To address these concerns, the study suggests that pregnant women need more access to dental care and better education about its importance. Dentists should also be better informed about the safety and necessity of treating pregnant women, and healthcare providers must improve communication with each other and their patients.
"It's crucial to not wait," the director emphasized. "It's even more important first of all because of the risk for their health and their baby's health."
The study also pointed out that pregnancy is an ideal time to seek oral health care, especially for those on Medicaid. In New York, all pregnant women are covered by Medicaid during pregnancy and for 60 days postpartum, even if they are uninsured.

Dentists 'need to improve their knowledge of pregnant women', experts say

2025-03-31 - 2025-04

Visits to a dentist for problems during pregnancy was linked with reduced odds of conditions such as gestational diabetes - prompting calls for better integration of oral care education in maternity services.
A new study, published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, found that pregnant women who received preventive oral health care or visited a dentist or a dental clinic for oral health problems during pregnancy had a lower risk of developing gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders.
'Our findings reinforce the connection between oral health and overall health,' said Dr Simona Surdu, project director at the Center for Health Workforce Studies.
'Integrating oral health education and services into maternal health care and expanding the oral health workforce through training, better distribution and inter-professional collaboration with prenatal care providers can improve access to oral health services for pregnant women - especially in underserved populations - and help reduce the risks of gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders.'
Maternity knowledge
University at Albany researchers analysed data from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS), a longstanding data repository maintained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between 2016 and 2020.
Women who did not receive preventive oral health care had 1.13-fold greater odds of having gestational diabetes and 1.08-fold greater odds of having hypertensive disorders of pregnancy than those who did.
Lack of needed visits to a dentist or dental clinic during pregnancy was associated with 1.28-fold greater odds of having hypertensive disorders of pregnancy than in women without dental problems.
The research team believed the findings have practical implications: 'Healthcare professionals should emphasise the importance of obtaining oral health care services to promote oral and overall health among pregnant women.
'Dentists need to improve their knowledge and willingness to treat pregnant women, especially those with pregnancy complications.'

Oral contraceptives and smoking impact steroid hormone levels in healthy adults: Study

2025-03-30 - 2025-03

Steroid hormone levels in healthy adults are influenced by oral contraceptives and smoking, as well as other lifestyle choices and factors such as biological sex and age, according to new research that has just been published in leading international journal Science Advances.
The objective of the research was to expand knowledge and understanding of steroid hormone levels, including corticoids and sex hormones, in healthy women and men over a broad age range. This is the first study to analyse such a large number of hormones in nearly 1,000 healthy people, filling a major gap in the knowledge of molecules that are important for our day-to-day well-being.
The work was conducted by members of the Milieu Interieur consortium and led by Dr Darragh Duffy (Institut Pasteur) and Dr Molly Ingersoll (Institut Pasteur and Institut Cochin (Inserm U1016, CNRS, Université Paris Cité). Dr Jamie Sugrue, a Trinity College Dublin graduate, now a Marie Curie-funded postdoctoral researcher at the Institut Pasteur, is the co-first author. Dr Sugrue also worked with Trinity's Professor Cliona O'Farrelly to secure a Research Ireland Ulysses grant, which kickstarted the ongoing collaboration between Trinity researchers and the Pasteur and Milieu Interieur consortium teams.
The team involved in this current study found that hormone levels vary according to an individual's age and sex, but that they are also associated with many other factors, such as genetics and common behaviours.
Notably, many steroid hormone levels, beyond sex hormones, are influenced by oral contraceptive use in women, while in men, smoking was associated with altered levels of nearly every steroid hormone measured.
Additionally, measurement of hormones in the same donors 10 years after the original visit showed that decreases in specific androgens were associated with diverse diseases in aging men, implying that these hormones - which are associated with physical characteristics, and supporting strong bones and red blood cell production - play a role in disease development.
This finding - among others - gives the team numerous avenues to pursue in future research.
Dr Sugrue said: "Even in healthy people, immune responses can vary dramatically. As a first step towards understanding how hormones impact immunity, we worked to understand how hormones themselves vary among people. Our study provides a significant resource for the research community, and generates many new hypotheses for further research. Our next steps will focus on understanding how variation in hormone levels contribute to differences in the immune response between people."
"My current project is specifically focused on variation in antiviral immune responses in healthy people, and in many ways is a continuation of work that I started during my PhD with Prof. Cliona O'Farrelly at Trinity, where we worked on how antiviral immune system variation can confer resistance to hepatitis C virus infection. By incorporating the hormone measures into my current analysis I hope to uncover exciting new insights."
Cliona O'Farrelly, Professor of Comparative Immunology in Trinity's School of Biochemistry and Immunology, added: "If the COVID pandemic taught us anything it was how different all our immune systems are, and being part of the Milieu Interieur collaboration is giving us Trinity researchers a wonderful opportunity to study the molecular and genetic mechanisms responsible for these differences at scale."
Co-first author, Dr Léa G Deltourbe, Institut Pasteur & Institut Cochin, added: "This study brings much needed data to a subject that is receiving a lot of interest in the mainstream news and on social media platforms, providing a strong basis for investigating the role of steroid hormones in health and disease, including the impact of endocrine disruptors, the link between stress and cortisol, and the role of sex hormones on our well-being." As one example, understanding the potential effects of the contraceptive pill on physical and mental health should lead to a better quality of life for women choosing to use this form of medication.

Fighting Plaque with CBD: Study Shows Enhanced Oral Health Benefits

2025-03-27 - 2025-03

Can cannabidiol (CBD) serve as a mouthwash to combat gingivitis? This is what a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine hopes to address as a team of researchers from the Medical University of Silesia in Poland investigated how mouthwash containing CBD oil could be used as an effective agent for combating gingivitis. This study has the potential to help researchers, medical professionals, and the public better understand the benefits of CBD in oral hygiene, specifically towards fighting diseases.
For the study, the researchers evaluated 40 participants, some using a CBD-infused mouthwash twice a day for 30 seconds each and some part of a control group, over 42 days to ascertain their oral microbiome, bleeding on probing (BOP), and approximate plaque index (API) pre- and post-treatment. In the end, the researchers found decreases in API and BOP in all groups, along with significant reductions in baseline BOP-1 scores and improved API scores.
The study concludes, "Firstly, the use of a mouthwash containing cannabidiol (CBD) and spilanthol was demonstrated to be efficacious in the maintenance of oral microbiota homeostasis. Secondly, the combination of TTO with spilanthol and CBD in the rinse was shown to result in a more significant reduction in selected oral health parameters (BOP and API) and anti-inflammatory effects when compared to a rinse with TTO alone. It should be noted that this is a pilot study and will continue."
This study comes after a 2020 study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research found that CBD-infused mouthwash was effective at treating dental plaque in several dozen patients in Belgium. Therefore, this most recent study builds on a growing body of knowledge regarding the benefits of CBD oil in oral hygiene.
How will CBD-infused mouthwash contribute to oral hygiene in the coming years and decades? Only time will tell, and this is why we science!
As always, keep doing science & keep looking up!

Evolution of sabre-toothed predators' deadly teeth

2025-03-26 - 2025-03

Sabre teeth - the long, sharp, blade-like canines found in extinct predators such as Smilodon - represent one of the most extreme dental adaptations in Nature. They evolved at least five times throughout mammalian history and are a classic example of convergence, which is when similar structures evolve independently in unrelated animal groups. With no living representatives, scientists have long debated how these predators used their fearsome teeth, and why this extreme tooth shape evolved so often. The new study, published in Current Biology
The predators through time
Sabre-toothed predators once roamed ecosystems around the globe. Their fossils have been found in North America, Europe, Africa and Asia. The feature that defines them are their sabres, a distinct type of canine tooth. These teeth are long, sharp, laterally compressed (flattened from the sides) and curved. This is different to the short, robust, conical canines of modern big cats such as lions and tigers. This iconic tooth is older than the dinosaurs. It first appeared around 265 million years ago in a group of mammal-like reptiles called the gorgonopsids.
Evolved repeatedly
Over millions of years, sabre teeth evolved repeatedly in different groups of carnivorous mammals, marsupial relatives like Thylacosmilus and 'false' sabre-tooth cats such as Barborofelis. The most well-known sabre-toothed predator is Smilodon. It persisted until just 10,000 years ago.Based on extensive research into sabre-tooth ecology there is a general consensus that these predators primarily targeted large prey, delivering slashing bites to the soft tissue of the throat powered by strong neck muscles. It is thought that their teeth offered an advantage doing this, helping them to deliver the killing bite.
Testing the puncture-strength trade-off
Specifically, the researchers tested if their shape was an optimal balance between two competing needs related to tooth function. First, being sharp and slender enough to puncture prey effectively. Second, being strong and robust enough to resist breaking. To investigate this, they conducted a large-scale analysis of more than 200 different carnivore teeth, including both extinct sabre-toothed species and modern animals. First, they measured their 3D shape to show how sabre teeth compared to other carnivores. Then it was tested how a subset of these teeth performed during biting via two experiments. Experts 3D printed tooth models in stainless steel and drove them into a gelatine block (simulating prey flesh) to measure how much force was needed to puncture. They used metal replicas to prevent tooth bending during the experiment, ensuring accurate puncture force measurements. They also ran engineering simulations to test how much stress different tooth shapes experienced under biting forces. This revealed their likelihood of breaking. Finally, they conducted an "optimality" test to determine which tooth shapes struck the best balance between puncture efficiency and strength.
Extreme to less extreme forms
In terms of sabre-tooth shape, the results challenge the traditional idea that these predators fell into just two categories: dirk-toothed, which are long and slender, and scimitar-toothed, which are short and laterally compressed. Instead, they uncovered a continuum of sabre-tooth shapes.
Prone to breakage
This ranged from extreme forms, such as the long, curved canines of Barbourofelis, Smilodon and Hopolophoneus, to less extreme forms, such as the straighter, more robust teeth of Dinofelis and Nimravus. The results reveal that the extreme sabre-toothed forms, like Smilodon, were optimised for puncturing prey with minimal force. However, they were more prone to breakage under high stress. Less extreme sabre-toothed forms, such as Dinofelis, were also optimal but in a different way. They struck a more balanced trade-off between puncture efficiency and strength. The fact that different sabre-toothed species evolved varying balances between puncture efficiency and strength suggests a broader range of hunting strategies than previously thought. This supports a growing body of research on their ecological diversity.
A striking solution
These results help explain why extreme sabre teeth evolved so many times, likely driven by natural selection for an optimal design. They also provide a possible explanation for their eventual demise. Their increasing specialisation may have acted as an "evolutionary ratchet", making them highly effective hunters, but also more vulnerable to extinction when ecosystems changed, and their prey became scarce. The study also provides broader insights into how extreme adaptations evolve in other species. By integrating biomechanics with evolutionary theory, one can better understand how natural selection shapes organisms to perform specialised tasks. Sharpness and durability. The sabre tooth form represents a striking solution to a fundamental mechanical challenge, balancing efficiency with strength - one that is also reflected in human-made tools. This trade-off between sharpness and durability is a key consideration in engineering, influencing the design of everything from surgical scalpels to industrial cutting blades. Engineers developing precision tools, such as hypodermic needles or high-performance cutting instruments, can look to nature's evolutionary solutions for inspiration, applying the same principles that shaped these prehistoric predators.

Virtual surgical planning in oral surgery leads to 'improved patient outcomes'

2025-03-25 - 2025-03

Virtual surgical planning (VSP) in oral surgery can improve surgical precision, reduce operative times and enhance patient outcomes.
This is according to a new review that evaluated the effectiveness of VSP in comparison to traditional surgical planning methods.
VSP represents an advancement in craniomaxillofacial surgery by utilising 3D imaging and computer-aided techniques to enhance precision and improve surgical outcomes.
Published this month in Cureus: Journal of Medical Science, the review carried out a thorough examination of the existing literature on VSP in craniomaxillofacial surgery. By synthesising current research, it sought to enhance the understanding of VSP's applications, benefits and limitations.
'This systematic review highlighted the notable advantages of VSP in oral surgery, including improved surgical precision, reduced operative times, and enhanced patient outcomes,' the researchers concluded.
'VSP consistently outperformed traditional surgical methods, particularly in terms of accuracy and efficiency.
'However, the review also pointed to some challenges, such as the higher material costs and occasional inconsistencies in results, which suggest that further refinement of the VSP techniques is necessary.
'Additionally, long-term follow-up data showed promising results for VSP, indicating its potential for sustained positive effects. To fully realise its benefits, future studies should focus on addressing these challenges, optimising the technology, and further evaluating VSP's long-term impact on surgical outcomes and cost effectiveness.'
Dental implant lifespan
This comes as findings show that dental implants used to replace single teeth function well even after several decades.
The research represents the longest follow-up study of single dental implants in the world.
Carried out by a team at the University of Gothenburg, the study is based on a follow-up of a small group of patients who received single implants to replace missing teeth between 1982 and 1985.
Of the 16 patients who received implants during this period, 13 participated in the follow-up, conducted at the Brånemark Clinic, Public Dental Service Västra Götaland. These 13 patients had 18 implants in total.
'It is impressive that the single implants function so well after such a long time,' said Sargon Barkarmo, prosthodontist and senior lecturer at the University of Gothenburg.
'Even though the study included a small number of patients, the results show that the implants remain in place and that the bone loss around them is virtually unchanged after 40 years.'
The crowns placed on the implants had a shorter lifespan than the implants themselves, the study found. At the 40-year follow-up, around 60% of the original crowns remained, with many having been replaced one or more times.

Statins Potential Aid in Healing after dental extraction: Study

2025-03-24 - 2025-03

Researchers have found in a new study that Statins may Aid in Post-Extraction Healing after dental procedures. The study highlights the promising role of statin drugs in enhancing tissue healing after tooth extraction. These findings suggest new possibilities for improving patient care in dentistry, potentially revolutionizing post-extraction healing approaches. Statins, widely known for their cholesterol-lowering effects, have shown remarkable potential in stimulating bone formation and enhancing soft tissue healing, offering a transformative approach in dental care. This systematic review aimed to analyze the effects of statins on tissue healing in dental extraction sockets, presenting a promising future for both dental professionals and patients. Registered in the International Prospective Register of Ongoing Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42022299247), the study involved an extensive electronic database search, identifying 412 manuscripts, of which only nine met the eligibility criteria after a rigorous screening process. These nine studies included a total sample of 403 animals, predominantly rats (eight studies), with one study conducted on mongrel dogs. The analysis revealed that the application of statins in tooth extraction sockets significantly enhances bone repair and promotes new bone formation, while also preserving the height and width of the residual alveolar ridge. Moreover, the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression of key growth factors, such as transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), was found to be upregulated, leading to improved vascularization, reduced inflammation, and minimized alveolar bone loss. Historically, several materials have been used to support healing after tooth extraction, but limitations such as high costs, risk of disease transmission, and donor site morbidity have prevented the establishment of a definitive gold standard. The findings of this review highlight that statins not only preserve the alveolar ridge but also significantly enhance periodontal health and osseointegration, offering a viable alternative to conventional materials. Additionally, the reduced progression of medication-related osteoradionecrosis of the jaw-like lesions further broadens the scope of statin drugs in dentistry. Given these promising outcomes, further randomized controlled trials are necessary to establish clear guidelines for the clinical application of statins in dental tissue healing. The findings of this study emphasize the groundbreaking potential of statins in post-extraction healing, paving the way for a paradigm shift in dental care that could revolutionize patient outcomes and improve overall oral health.

Can Simvastatin Improve Healing in Avulsed Teeth? A Case Series Explores the Possibility

2025-03-23 - 2025-03

India: Tooth avulsion, a severe dental injury involving the complete displacement of a tooth from its socket, presents significant challenges in reimplantation, particularly when extraoral dry time is prolonged. The success of reimplantation is largely dependent on the viability of the periodontal ligament cells, which deteriorate with extended exposure outside the socket. While existing treatment approaches aim to improve outcomes, no single method is universally effective, especially in cases of delayed reimplantation.
A recent case series published in Cureus Journal explored using simvastatin as an adjunct therapy to enhance bone healing and inhibit resorption in delayed tooth avulsion cases.
Simvastatin, commonly known for its cholesterol-lowering properties, has demonstrated additional benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects, promotion of bone regeneration, and enhancing periodontal ligament cell survival. These attributes suggest that simvastatin could be a valuable addition to treating avulsed teeth with extended dry times, potentially improving long-term prognosis.
The case series described by Rajesh Kumar, Paediatric Dentistry, Malla Reddy Institute of Dental Sciences, Hyderabad, IND, and colleagues included four pediatric patients who presented with avulsed teeth due to trauma. In all cases, the avulsed teeth were stored in dry conditions for extended periods, ranging from 24 to 46 hours, before reimplantation. Standard reimplantation procedures were followed, which included root surface decontamination, socket debridement, and repositioning of the teeth. Additionally, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and hydroxyapatite were used to enhance healing.
Simvastatin was applied with bone graft material to further inhibit bone resorption and stimulate bone regeneration. Following reimplantation, the teeth were stabilized using an orthodontic splint, and patients were prescribed antibiotics and analgesics for post-procedural care.
During follow-up evaluations, probing depths and radiographic assessments were used to monitor healing progress. Across all cases, initial probing depths were significantly reduced over time, indicating improved periodontal stability. Radiographic analysis demonstrated reduced bone loss and evidence of new bone formation, supporting the beneficial effects of simvastatin in promoting healing.
By the third recall, probing depths had notably decreased, and by the fourth recall, splints were removed as the teeth demonstrated sufficient stability. A one-year follow-up confirmed maintained periodontal integrity and bone health.
The case series suggests that incorporating simvastatin into treatment protocols for delayed tooth reimplantation may enhance healing and improve long-term outcomes. However, limitations such as the short follow-up period highlight the need for further clinical trials.
"Future randomized controlled studies could provide more definitive evidence regarding the optimal dosage and application of simvastatin in managing delayed tooth avulsion cases," the authors concluded.

UAlbany study links lack of dental health with pregnancy complications

2025-03-21 - 2025-03

A new study, conducted by researchers at University at Albany's College of Integrated Health Sciences, shows poor dental hygiene during pregnancy can increase the risk of dental diseases and pregnancy complications. According to the college, the study was done using Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System data between 2016 and 2020.
According to the college, less than 40 percent of pregnant woman in the United States seek preventative oral health care. In the recent study, researchers found pregnancy challenges were more common among lower-income or minority women.
Those who did not regularly attend dental appointments or visit a dentist had higher risks of developing gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders and periodontal disease. However, those who did receive routine dental care visits had a low risk of developing complications, the study said.
"Our findings reinforce the connection between oral health and overall health," said Dr. Simona Surdu, project director at the Center for Health Workforce Studies. "Integrating oral health education and services into maternal health care and expanding the oral health workforce through training, better distribution and inter-professional collaboration with prenatal care providers can improve access to oral health services for pregnant women-especially in underserved populations-and help reduce the risks of gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders."

Pre-dental preventive treatment may not be needed in HAE: Study

2025-03-20 - 2025-03

Short-term preventive treatment before dental procedures may not be necessary for people with hereditary angioedema (HAE) who are already on long-term prophylaxis, according to a new study by researchers in Germany.
It's well-established that dental procedures and surgeries can act as triggers to increase the risk of the swelling attacks that mark HAE. As such, people with the genetic disorder are typically given short-term prophylaxis - preventive treatment dubbed STP - before such procedures.
In STP, therapies are given immediately before medical, surgical, or dental procedures, or other events capable of triggering an attack, with the aim of minimizing the chances of that happening.
Over the last decade or so, however, several treatment options for long-term prophylaxis, or LTP, have been approved. These therapies are taken regularly to reduce the risk of swelling attacks.
With the increased availability and use of these LTP treatments, there's been renewed debate about whether STP before certain medical procedures is still necessary. In this study, the researchers conclude it's likely not, "provided acute treatment is available and other trigger factors are absent," the team wrote.
1 swelling attack reported in over 100 dental procedures
Seeking to better understand the effects of short-term preventive treatment in the modern era, a team from Ulm University Medical Center surveyed angioedema patients on LTP at their center. The survey was answered by 25 people with HAE, as well as one person with acquired angioedema.
All 26 patients in the study had been on LTP for a median of five years. Among them, 10 said they had not experienced any swelling attacks since starting LTP, while eight reported 1-3 attacks since beginning long-term treatment. Five individuals reported having four or more attacks since starting LTP, with three of these patients noting that they'd experienced more than 10. No data were provided for the three remaining patients.
More than 100 dental procedures were reported by 19 patients. STP was not used for the vast majority of these procedures. Yet, there was just one instance in which a patient experienced a swelling attack following a dental procedure, the researchers noted.
According to the team, these data suggest that it's very unlikely for HAE patients on LTP to experience swelling related to dental procedures, even without short-term prophylaxis. As such, "for dental procedures, the mandatory use of STP in HAE patients on effective LTP should be reconsidered," the researchers wrote.
The situation for surgeries was a bit more complex. A total of nine surgical procedures were reported by eight patients. In most of the procedures, STP was used.
In five of these cases, a swelling attack occurred following surgery - and in all of them, the attack occurred even though the patient had been given STP.
Given these data, the researchers said it's not possible to draw reliable conclusions about whether STP or LTP may help lower the risk of swelling attacks after surgeries. Instead, the team emphasized a need for more research in this area.
Overall, per the scientists, these data suggest that, in the modern age of LTP, it may not be necessary to use STP as often.
Indeed, limiting the use of STP may help minimize the treatment burden for patients, as well as costs, the researchers note. The team noted that such considerations should be a part of discussions about best practices for HAE care.
"The data from the present study … do not support the necessity of mandatory STP under LTP in HAE patients," the researchers wrote. Instead, "treatment decisions should be made through shared decision-making, with the presence of effective and sufficient acute therapy as the foundation of any therapeutic approach," they wrote.

Researchers also find no attacks followed half of early symptoms
In addition to asking about experiences with dental and surgical procedures, the survey queried patients about their experience with prodromal symptoms - early symptoms that appear before swelling and may serve as warning signs of imminent attacks.
Many patients reported having experienced prodromal symptoms, with the most common being tiredness, reddened skin, and digestive upset. Almost all said that, since starting LTP, their prodromal symptoms had either disappeared entirely or became much less bothersome.
The researchers noted that there were many instances in which patients on LTP reported experiencing prodromal symptoms that were ultimately not followed by a swelling attack. As such, the scientists cautioned that these early symptoms shouldn't necessarily be a cue for on-demand treatment in HAE patients on LTP.
"Since no attack followed approximately half of the prodromal symptoms and the overall frequency was significantly reduced in our results, general recommendations for acute therapy cannot be given based solely on the occurrence of a prodromal symptom," the scientists wrote. Importantly, the scientists noted that "stress is one of the most common triggers for an HAE attack," and wrote that, "since (dental) medical procedures typically mean stress for patients, this is an important consideration for healthcare providers managing HAE … patients."

Broccoli Extract may be Natural Alternative to Fluoride for Enamel Remineralization: Study

2025-03-17 - 2025-03

A new study published in the journal of Health Science Reports found that aqueous broccoli extract to show similar efficacy to fluoride gel in improving the microhardness of demineralized primary tooth enamel, despite differing patterns of demineralization and recovery. These findings suggest broccoli extract may be a natural and effective option for pediatric caries prevention, meriting further clinical research.
This in vitro study involved 30 extracted primary second molars, which were sectioned, polished, and tested for their baseline enamel microhardness using a Vickers hardness tester. To simulate the acidic environment that leads to dental caries, the samples were exposed to a cola drink (pH 4.5) for eight minutes, causing demineralization.
This study treated the samples with either an aqueous broccoli extract (Group B) or 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel (Group F) for ten minutes. The broccoli extract was prepared by air-drying fresh broccoli florets, stems, and leaves, followed by aqueous extraction and filtration. The post-treatment enamel microhardness was then measured, and percentage changes were analyzed statistically.
The study found that both treatments significantly improved enamel microhardness after demineralization. However, the broccoli extract group expressed a greater recovery in microhardness (+44.95%) when compared to the fluoride gel group (+20.78%), with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.008). This suggests that the broccoli extract was more effective in rapidly restoring enamel strength after acid exposure.
Despite this, no statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups (p = 0.077) when comparing the overall reduction in enamel hardness from the initial baseline to the final measurement. This indicates that both treatments were comparable in maintaining enamel hardness over time.
These findings suggest that broccoli extract could serve as a natural alternative to fluoride in preventing dental caries in children. While fluoride remains the gold standard for enamel remineralization, concerns over excessive fluoride exposure and fluorosis have led researchers to explore plant-based alternatives.
Broccoli is rich in calcium and other minerals that contribute to enamel repair, making it a promising candidate for natural dental care solutions. Overall, this study emphasized that further clinical investigations are needed to validate these results and explore the long-term benefits and practical applications of broccoli extract in pediatric dentistry.

Your Sugary Soda Habit Could Raise Your Oral Cancer Risk, New Study Says

2025-03-14 - 2025-03

If you're a fan of drinks like soda, teas and sweetened juice, you're likely consuming sugar-sweetened beverages. These drinks typically contain added sugars, which are added to the products during processing. It's well known that consuming excessive amounts of added sugar on a regular basis can lead to some health concerns, including obesity, heart disease, dental cavities and gastrointestinal disease-and according to a new study, it could even lead to oral cancer.
A recent study published on March 13, 2025, in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery 1 highlights the links between consuming sugar-sweetened beverages and increased cancer risk. Let's break down what they found.
How Was This Study Conducted and What Did It Find?
Using data from the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) and Nurses' Health Study II-two parts of a long-running series of studies that began in 1976-these researchers traced the beverage habits and health outcomes of more than 160,000 women. The women included had an average age of 43 years at the beginning of the study, and researchers had access to data from 30 years of follow-up with the participants. The NHS also collected information about other confounding factors, including smoking habits, race, alcohol intake, body mass index and age, among others.
For the purposes of the study, sugar-sweetened beverages were defined as caffeinated and non-caffeinated sodas with sugar, non-cola carbonated beverages with sugar and non-carbonated sweetened beverages (such as lemonade and sweet tea).
The study aimed to examine the increasing prevalence of oral cavity cancer in young people, even those without other behaviors linked to cancer, such as smoking. In particular, researchers noted that an increased number of cases have been reported in women who do not smoke, prompting the study authors to look for factors that could be at play.
The results indicated that the women who consumed one or more sugar-sweetened beverages a day were 4.87 times more likely to develop oral cavity cancer, with 124 cases of the cancer diagnosed over time. The rate increased slightly for those who smoked or drank either lightly or not at all-those participants who drank one or more sugar-sweetened drinks each day were 5.46 times more likely to develop oral cavity cancer.
The authors also mention that the baseline risk of developing oral cavity cancer is low, so it's important that research continues to be done so that there's a more concrete understanding of the link between the overall risk and beverage consumption. The sample size was also limited to women, so a more extensive study that includes men would be helpful in understanding just how pertinent the connection is.
The Bottom Line
While additional research still needs to be conducted to confirm these findings, it's still worth keeping in mind when considering your sipping habits. After all, we do know that excess sugar consumption can have a slew of negative health effects, including a higher risk of inflammation and diabetes.
If you're looking to cut back on sugary drinks, there are plenty of no-added sugar options that can make a welcome substitute. Finding healthier alternatives in your diet and lifestyle can help you feel your best.

Adults with T2DM have high odds of periodontitis: Study

2025-03-13 - 2025-03

Adults with T2DM have high odds of periodontitis, and serum PLP may play a modulatory effect in this association, as suggested by a new study published in BMC Oral Health.
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that seriously affects the quality of patients' lives. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an independent risk factor of periodontitis. The association between vitamin B6 and several inflammatory diseases have been reported in previous studies. However, the effect of vitamin B6 on the association of T2DM and periodontitis remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the effect of vitamin B6 [evaluated by serum pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP)] on the association of T2DM and periodontitis in Athe merican population.
Data of this cross-sectional study were extracted from the National Health and Nutrients Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009-2010. Serum PLP level was the indicator of vitamin B6 status in vivo and measured by enzymatic assay. Covariates included demographic information, physical examination, lifestyle characteristics, laboratory parameters and complications. The weighted univariate and multivariate logistics regression models were conducted to explore the association of PLP, T2DM and periodontitis, with the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses were further performed to explore these associations based on age, body mass index (BMI), cardiovascular disease (CVD) and dental decay.
Results: Finally, 3,491 eligible adults with the information of periodontitis measurement, T2DM diagnosis and PLP detection were included. Among them, 1,999 (57.26%) had periodontitis. After adjusted confounders, we found adults with T2DM had high odds of periodontitis (OR = 1.45, 95%CI: 1.04-2.02); while no significant association between PLP and periodontitis was observed. Adults with low PLP level (< 67.20 nmol/L) and combined with T2DM had high odds of periodontitis (OR = 1.82, 95%CI: 1.29-2.55), no significant association was found between T2DM and periodontitis in adults with high PLP level (≥ 67.20 nmol/L). These results suggested that serum PLP levels may have the modulatory effect on the association of T2DM and periodontitis.
This modulatory effect remains robust in subgroup analysis, especially in adults aged ≥ 60 years (OR = 4.54, 95%CI: 2.15-9.62), with obese (OR = 3.06, 95%CI: 1.31-7.18), without the history of CVD (OR = 2.25, 95%CI: 1.06-4.79) and without dental decay (OR = 2.93, 95%CI: 1.51-5.68) (all P < 0.05). The study suggested that adults with T2DM had the high odds of periodontitis, and serum PLP may plays a modulatory effect in this association. T2DM patients maintaining a higher intake of vitamin B6 may have potential benefits in reducing the periodontitis risk.

Researchers behind study on hypophosphatasia say their findings will help dentists identify early cases

2025-03-10 - 2025-03

With enzyme replacement therapy now available to treat hypophosphatasia, a rare skeletal disease but with a relatively higher prevalence among rare bone disorders, Japanese researchers say their findings will help dentists identify suspected cases earlier.
"The trends that we observed in this study will be helpful for dentists who might come across patients with hypophosphatasia in their clinics," says Kazuhiko Nakano, senior author. "Improved knowledge of the various ways this disease presents will lead to better diagnostic rates and earlier treatments for affected patients."
Since 2013, researchers have conducted nationwide surveys of dental clinics every five years. In their most recent survey, they collected data from 103 cases across 30 clinics, a significant increase from the 19 and 52 cases recorded in the previous two surveys.
"We had enough cases that we could break them down into two groups-those whose symptoms involved the teeth only, known as odonto-type disease, and those who had other symptoms, which we termed non-odonto-type disease," explains Rena Okawa, lead author of the study. "We were surprised to see big differences in oral manifestations between the two groups."
Two groups
Patients with odonto-type hypophosphatasia were more likely to lose their first teeth early, whereas those with non-odonto-type disease were more likely to experience tooth misalignment and tooth hypomineralization, a condition in which the enamel softens. Non-odonto-type disease was also linked to poor oral habits, such as finger sucking and tongue thrusting, as well as difficulties with swallowing.
In Canada, severe hypophosphatasia is estimated to occur in approximately 1 in 100,000 live births.
However, it is particularly frequent in a Mennonite population in Manitoba, Canada, where about 1 in 2,500 infants is born with severe features of the condition.

Dentistry under general anaesthetic 'grotesquely under-resourced', warns leading dentist

2025-03-06 - 2025-03

The service offering dental care under general anaesthetic is "grotesquely under-resourced" around the country, a leading dentist working at Cork University Dental Hospital has warned.
Children and adults with disabilities as well as people with severe anxiety or other health issues need this service for having dental care. This could be extractions, fillings or other care.
Dr Catherine Gallagher called for more hospitals to provide operating theatre time to dentists.
"We do have the staff to see these patients but getting into theatre is challenging. It's not the dentists who are in short supply generally, certainly not with us, it's access to the full team," she said.
A team including an anaesthetist and nurses supports dentists giving this treatment, she explained. "That service is grotesquely under-resourced," she said.
She estimated the Cork dental hospital's waiting list for this is at "around four years" now.
"The bulk of what is on our waiting lists would be children so under-16s. And we have close on 500 in total, not just for extractions," she said.
Patients are categorised as urgent - meaning life-threatening situations - semi-urgent and non-urgent based on referral letters. "We have 231 patients categorised as semi-urgent at the moment and 102 of those are six or under," she said.
A key issue was the dental team had limited access to theatre time at Cork University Hospital until February. "We have just last month got additional theatre time, we now have an additional three days. We had two of those days now so we have just started," she said.
"It obviously hasn't started long enough to make any impact on the waiting lists. Before we got this extra time if I were to divide the number of patients we were doing per week into the number on the waiting list, our waiting list comes at around four years."
The pressure on theatre slots reflects what is happening in other overcrowded hospitals, the Irish Dental Association also warned last week.
She is "very grateful" to everyone who helped make the additional days possible, saying "(they are) doing their best to support our efforts to re-establish the level of service we provided in the past."
However, the crisis nationally means dentists are only treating the most urgent cases.
"We are hopeful that (the extra hours) will make a big difference because at the moment all we're doing is the smallest amount of fire-fighting, just seeing the patients in the most dire need," she said.
Dentistry under general anaesthetic is also done by the HSE dental service in St Finbarr's Hospital with a separate service in Mallow.
Another key issue was the suspension of an arrangement between the HSE and Aut Even hospital in Kilkenny. This meant those patients were travelling to Cork instead.
A spokesman for the HSE Dublin South East told the Irish Examiner just days ago this lapsed arrangement is being renewed at least for orthodontic patients.
This follows a focus on the waiting lists after the parents of an autistic boy in Waterford, Tiernan Power Murphy, were told of a potential 10-year wait to have teeth extracted.

Dental implants continue to function after 40 years, says study

2025-03-05 - 2025-03

Dental implants used to replace single teeth function well even after several decades, according to new research.
This research represents the longest follow-up study of single dental implants in the world.
Carried out by a team at the University of Gothenburg, the study is based on a follow-up of a small group of patients who received single implants to replace missing teeth between 1982 and 1985.
Of the 16 patients who received implants during this period, 13 participated in the follow-up, conducted at the Brånemark Clinic, Public Dental Service Västra Götaland. These 13 patients had 18 implants in total.
'It is impressive that the single implants function so well after such a long time,' said Sargon Barkarmo, prosthodontist and senior lecturer at the University of Gothenburg.
'Even though the study included a small number of patients, the results show that the implants remain in place and that the bone loss around them is virtually unchanged after 40 years.'
The crowns placed on the implants had a shorter lifespan than the implants themselves, the study found. At the 40-year follow-up, around 60% of the original crowns remained, with many having been replaced one or more times.
Older dental implant systems 'highly effective'
The study concluded that implants placed using well-planned surgical techniques and given sufficient healing time have an excellent long-term prognosis.
The researchers added that older implant systems, which have been 'highly effective', are no longer available on the market. This is due to the continuous introduction of new systems that quickly replace older ones, they say - despite their proven long-term success.
Barkarmo added: 'Today, methods that accelerate treatment and healing are commonly used. These approaches also need long-term follow-ups and careful evaluation to ensure equally good results over time.'
Earlier this year, scientists successfully grew human-like replacement teeth in a lab setting and implanted them into the mouths of miniature pigs.
Human and porcine tooth cells were combined and grown into tooth-like structures inside samples of pig tooth. This approach was taken because pigs grow many sets of teeth throughout their lifetime.
Once mostly grown, the teeth were implanted into the jaws of pigs for two months and then removed. The researchers found that the finished teeth had developed hard layers of dentin and cementum.

123Dentist Expands AI Integration with VideaHealth to Elevate Patient Care and Empower Dental Professionals

2025-03-04 - 2025-03

123Dentist, a leader in the Canadian dental industry, is expanding its adoption of AI in its clinical operations by implementing VideaHealth's AI solution across its network. This initiative enhances diagnostic accuracy, empowers clinicians, and improves patient engagement through cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI).
"AI in dentistry is designed to enhance, not replace, doctor expertise. It's a clinical tool that will help our doctors support their clinical diagnosis and discussions with patients, said Dr. Naveen Verma, Senior Vice President of Clinical Growth at 123Dentist. "VideaAI by VideaHealth supports our clinical teams by fostering patient trust through case presentation."
Empowering Dental Professionals Through AI
123Dentist's approach to AI integration focuses on enhancing both clinical excellence and patient trust. Rather than automating care, the company is investing in human-AI collaboration, where AI serves as a support system for dental professionals. By integrating VideaAI, 123Dentist provides:
Enhanced clinical confidence: AI-assisted diagnostics help dentists refine their diagnoses and treatment plans, reducing uncertainty and ensuring precision.
Seamless workflow support: AI-driven insights allow clinicians to streamline case reviews, ensuring efficient and patient-focused care.
A second set of eyes: VideaHealth AI acts as an extra layer of diagnostic assurance, reinforcing decision-making while allowing clinicians to focus on patient relationships.
Transforming the Patient Experience
Beyond enhancing clinical efficiency, VideaAI is reshaping patient interactions, fostering greater engagement and trust in dental care. By providing real-time insights directly on X-rays, AI empowers patients to take a more active role in their oral health.
Visual clarity for patients: AI-powered feedback highlights areas of concern in an easy-to-understand format, improving patient comprehension and reducing skepticism.
Strengthened patient trust: The transparency of AI-assisted diagnostics fosters more collaborative discussions between patients and their providers.
Informed decision-making: With AI-supported explanations, patients feel more confident about treatment plans, leading to higher case acceptance and long-term oral health benefits.
"AI is a powerful tool, but it's the human connection that drives exceptional care," said Dr. Verma. " VideaHealth stood out as our AI partner of choice for its ability to drive technology adoption in doctor-led organizations and provide real results that improve patient satisfaction. By integrating VideaAI into our practices, we're ensuring that technology enhances-not replaces-the clinician-patient relationship."
Strategic Collaboration with VideaHealth
123Dentist has partnered with VideaHealth to integrate AI into its workflow, ensuring that clinicians remain in control of decision-making while leveraging AI to enhance diagnostic accuracy and streamline patient communication.
"123Dentist is setting new standards for AI-assisted dentistry," said Florian Hillen, Founder and CEO of VideaHealth. "Our mission is to transform dental care through AI, empowering dentists to advance diagnostics and enhance the patient experience. We're proud to support 123Dentist's commitment to innovation and patient-first care."

Scientists track pneumonia-causing bacteria as they infect the blood stream

2025-02-27 - 2025-03

Bacteremia, or blood poisoning, occurs when bacteria overcome the body's immune defenses.
Bacteremia can worsen into sepsis, a condition that accounts for more than 1 in 3 hospital deaths per year.
Yet people are routinely exposed to and fight off bacteria from the environment without this deadly series of events occurring.
Scientists are trying to figure out exactly how bacteria spread throughout the body to cause systemic infection in the hopes of eventually stopping this process in its tracks.
Michael Bachman, M.D., Ph.D., clinical associate professor of pathology and microbiology and immunology at U-M Medical School and former postdoc Caitlyn Holmes, Ph.D., have tried to solve this mystery, focusing on gram negative bacteria like Klebsiella pneumoniae, a common source of pneumonia-initiated bacteremia.
In previous work, they determined that bacteria spread in three phases: infection of an initial site, such as the lungs; entrance into the bloodstream; and finally, replication and avoidance of filtration by the liver and spleen.
Traditionally, analyzing a bacterial infection is done by culturing tissue and counting the number of resulting bacteria.
"Experimentally, we can measure the first phase pretty easily in terms of how the bacteria infect the lungs and we can measure the third phase pretty easily in terms of how the bacteria survive in these blood-filtering organs and whether they replicate or not. But that transition out of the lungs and into the bloodstream has traditionally been difficult to measure," said Bachman.
Using an innovative barcoding-style system developed with colleagues at Harvard University, Bachman, Holmes and their team were able to label bacteria with short snippets of DNA in mouse models and use computer analysis to track the movement of K. pneumoniae throughout the body.
They expected that the bacteria would replicate in the lungs until such a point that their clones overwhelmed the lung's defenses, spilling out into the blood stream, says Bachman.
And while they did see this type of spread -- which they called metastatic dissemination -- there was evidence of another type as well.
Unexpectedly, "about half of the mice had the metastatic pattern, and the other half contained bacteria that escaped on their own into the bloodstream without the need to replicate to large numbers first," Bachman explained about this second mode, which they called direct dissemination.
Overall, metastatic pathway correlated with a stronger infection than the direct route.
Furthermore, over time, infection progressed to more of the metastatic pattern.
"We need to understand the biology of each of these routes in order to figure out the best treatments," said Bachman.
"There's a mantra in infectious disease that is to find and treat the source to stop the bacteremia."
Uncovering the existence of the direct route may mean that bacteria are setting up low level reservoirs in other parts of the body that could be better targeted to treat blood infections.
Additionally, Holmes created mutations in both the K. pneumoniae and mice that affected the mode of dissemination hinting that the interaction between the bacteria and the host's immune system may determine the outcome of the infection.
"The project began with a very basic question -- how does bacteria leave the lungs -- that we have now provided some insight into, closing a significant gap in our knowledge," said Holmes.

Reactive nitrogen species dominance is key in the fight against antimicrobial resistance

2025-02-27 - 2025-03

The balance between two types of molecules -- reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) -- plays a crucial role in tackling drug-resistant bacteria, according to a new study from the University of Surrey.
In a study published in Microbiological Research, researchers from Surrey investigated how different RNS and ROS ratios affect harmful bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Using advanced imaging and transcriptional analysis, they identified how these bacteria respond differently depending on the balance of these molecules.
The researchers found that this balance works similarly to dealing with weeds in a garden.
RNS is like pulling weeds out by the roots -- it removes them completely, preventing regrowth.
But when ROS dominates, it's like just cutting the weeds at the surface; the bacteria may look weaker at first, but they can recover, form protective layers (biofilms), and become even harder to eliminate.
This discovery is important because drug-resistant infections are a growing global health threat, making many antibiotics less effective.
Understanding how RNS and ROS interact at a molecular level could help scientists develop new treatments that enhance the body's natural defences and slow the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Dr Jorge Gutierrez-Merino, Senior Lecturer in Food Microbiology at the University of Surrey, said:
"We used to think both reactive oxygen and nitrogen hurt bacteria in the same way, but our research found it's more complicated. While nitrogen-heavy environments kill bacteria, an oxygen-rich environment can actually make bacteria stronger and harder to kill, especially by helping them form protective layers that resist antibiotics."
Using a unique plasma device called ReCAP, designed by industrial manufacturer Fourth State, the research team exposed bacterial cultures to controlled mixtures of RNS and ROS.
They grew the bacteria on liquid and solid media (a gel-like surface). Then, they used advanced imaging techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, to capture detailed changes in the bacteria's membranes.
In addition, they performed transcriptional analysis (a technique that reveals which genes are active or inactive in response to different conditions) to monitor how key genes responded to the different RNS/ROS ratios.
This combined approach allowed the researchers to directly link specific molecular changes to the bacteria's survival strategies and provided clear evidence of how the balance between RNS and ROS dictates bacterial outcomes.
Dr Gutierrez-Merino added:
"The research highlights how treatments that boost reactive nitrogen species might be good for fighting antibiotic-resistant bacteria, while treatments that mainly boost reactive oxygen species could make things worse. More research needs to be done to fully understand the relation between RONS and bacterial responses, which could lead to more effective antibacterial strategies in the future."

Nanoparticles offer enhanced treatment for root canal infection with fewer complications

2025-02-24 - 2025-02

Apical periodontitis, a chronic and hard-to-treat dental infection, affects more than half of the population worldwide and is the leading cause of tooth loss. Root canal is the standard treatment, but existing approaches to treat the infection have many limitations that can cause complications, leading to treatment failure.
Now, researchers at the School of Dental Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, and School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have identified a promising new therapeutic option that could potentially disrupt current treatments. The team of researchers is part of the Center for Innovation & Precision Dentistry, a joint research center between Penn Dental Medicine and Penn Engineering that leverages engineering and computational approaches to advance oral and craniofacial health care innovation.
In a paper published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, they show that ferumoxytol, an FDA-approved iron oxide nanoparticle formulation, greatly reduces infection in patients diagnosed with apical periodontitis.
"This is the first study showing the clinical efficacy of a nanotherapy in the treatment of a severe chronic biofilm infection," says Hyun (Michel) Koo of Penn Dental Medicine. "We previously found that ferumoxytol effectively inhibits pathogenic biofilms in the human mouth, so we asked if these same nanoparticles could treat an even more challenging biofilm: those hidden inside the root canal."
Biofilms are dense, sticky communities of bacteria that attach to surfaces and cause recalcitrant infections. A protective matrix and the antimicrobial resistance of microbes residing in them make biofilms (like dental plaque) difficult to treat. However, when they form deep in the tooth root canal, they pose an even greater challenge.
The small size and antimicrobial efficacy of nanoparticles make them excellent candidates for treating biofilms, and the researchers were able to demonstrate that topical applications of ferumoxytol in combination with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) potently disrupt biofilms in multiple experimental models.
"Ferumoxytol nanozymes-because of their unique catalytic (enzyme-like) activity-offer new and very effective ways to treat biofilm infections," says David Cormode of Penn Medicine and Penn Engineering.
"They represent an exciting new type of therapeutic agent, since they exhibit novel therapeutic effects while being low-cost and shelf stable."
Currently, sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is the gold standard disinfection solution used during root canals; however, it can cause complications if not contained to the treatment area, explains Bekir Karabucak of Penn Dental Medicine.
"Effective root canal disinfection is essential for treatment success. However, targeting microbes while preserving tooth structure is challenging. Current procedures require mechanical methods and harsh disinfectants to eliminate biofilm infection, but if not applied carefully, these solutions can harm surrounding tissues" says Karabucak.
The researchers treated 44 patients with periapical periodontitis with either ferumoxytol/H2O2, saline, or NaOCl after they underwent standard endodontic surgical procedures; bacterial samples were taken before and after treatment. They found that patients who received ferumoxytol/H2O2 achieved a 99.9% reduction in bacterial counts without experiencing any adverse effects, demonstrating that this treatment to be a safer and effective alternative to NaOCl.
As part of their process, they found an unexpected result: nanozymes had a positive effect on a population of stem cells found at the tip of the developing tooth root, stimulating their growth and activating them to produce bone-a property known as osteogenic capacity. "What started as a simple inquiry into potential toxicity evolved into something revolutionary: a treatment capable of eliminating stubborn biofilms while simultaneously regenerating tissue for healing, which is a novel concept for tissue regeneration through activation of one's own tissue's stem cells," says Chider Chen of Penn Dental Medicine.
This finding paves the way for investigating the use of ferumoxytol nanozymes in vital pulp therapy, a viable alternative in the early stages of disease that prevents patients from going through root canal treatment.
"Enhancing the success of vital pulp therapy with affordable, effective biomaterials can lower dental care costs. More importantly, it helps patients preserve their natural tooth structure and lifelong chewing function," says Karabucak.
Nanozymes may also be a promising approach for repairing craniofacial bone defects and treating other bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis, periodontitis, and autoimmune-induced osteopenia, given their ability to promote bone growth.
Koo is excited about the possibilities.
"Iron oxide nanozymes may be a transformative new class of therapeutics that provides both antibiofilm and tissue regenerative properties, offering a regenerative approach to antimicrobial therapy," he says. "The options are limitless: it is biocompatible, inexpensive to manufacture, and can be incorporated in a variety of formulations. We are expanding nanozyme use in other aspects of oral health care."

Understanding the world within: Study reveals new insights into phage--bacteria interactions in the gut microbiome

2025-02-25 - 2025-02

A world of microbes resides within the gut of every human being. This vast microbial community, the microbiome, which includes bacteria and viruses, has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to actively contribute to both health and disease.
Researchers have learned a good deal about the bacterial communities that live in the human gut. For instance, they have discovered that these bacteria extensively metabolize the food we eat, drive normal development of the immune system and, to our detriment, include some opportunistic microorganisms that can cause disease under certain conditions.
On the other hand, the contributions of viruses in the gut microbiome to human health and disease are not known to the same extent as those of bacteria. A new study published in Nature Microbiology has changed this.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have taken the lead on a project to investigate whether certain viruses known as bacteriophages, or phages, which specifically infect bacteria but not human cells, affect the development of type 1 diabetes in young children. Because phages exert pressure on the bacteria they infect and some phage genomes encode virulence factors and toxins, a role for specific phages or communities of phages in human health seems plausible.
"We think that phages can affect bacterial survival or behavior and this in turn could influence human health," said first author Dr. Michael J. Tisza, assistant professor of molecular virology and microbiology at Baylor.
The current study re-analyzed samples collected as part of The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young (TEDDY) study with the aim to specifically profile the combined phage-bacteria community. The TEDDY cohort was built with children at risk for developing immunity to the cells that produce insulin and/or type 1 diabetes. Previous TEDDY studies investigated whether gut bacteria and human viruses affected the development of type 1 diabetes. While they did not find a clear association with gut bacteria, there was an association with human viruses.
Phages are challenging to study
"Phage genetic data has been available for some time. We learned that phage genomes are very diverse, have little similarities among them and are very small, and these posed significant technical challenges to their analysis," Tisza said. "We approached the challenge by developing a new computational tool that allowed us to analyze phage signals."
"Using our new analytical tool, we profiled the combined phage-bacteria communities in 12,262 stool samples from 887 participants of the TEDDY study during their first four years of life," said co-corresponding author Dr. Sara J. Javornik Cregeen, assistant professor of molecular virology and microbiology at Baylor. "With this approach we dissected the dynamic changes in the composition of the communities of phages and bacteria in the developing gut and gained new insights into their interactions." The researchers found that certain bacteria thrive at different stages of human development, and this was similarly observed for phages in this study. "However, the pace at which phage communities changed was quicker than that of bacteria," Javornik Cregeen said.
"We think this points to an arms race between bacteria and their phages in which the bacteria evolve acquiring mutations that allow them to escape predation from the phages that were infecting them, and then that opens up an opportunity for a new phage to infect the bacteria," Tisza said.
As it relates to type 1 diabetes, the team didn't find any major phages or phage communities linked to a greater or lesser risk of developing the disease in this cohort. The findings nevertheless contribute to an improved perspective on microbiome development that reflects a dynamic interplay between phages and bacteria. The microbiome starts to develop as bacterial species enter the newly born child and begin to colonize the gut. As the child grows, a succession of bacterial species follows in response to diet changes and the development of the immune system. With this bacterial succession, phage communities also change, reflecting bacterial availability.

Scientists identify a new cancer immunotherapy target: Dysfunctional B cells

2025-02-19 - 2025-02

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center scientists have discovered a novel subset of cancer-fighting immune cells that reside outside of their normal neighborhood -- known as the tertiary lymphoid structure -- where they become frustratingly dysfunctional when in close contact with tumors.
Described today in the journal Science Translational Medicine, the finding gives oncologists a new target for developing immunotherapies: double negative memory B cells, so-called because they are negative for two markers found on the surface of their more common brethren. They may also be a useful diagnostic marker when creating treatment plans.
"The responsiveness of B cells is an important part of whether a patient with cancer does well or not," said senior author Tullia Bruno, Ph.D., assistant professor of immunology at Pitt and a member of the Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program and Tumor Microenvironment Center at UPMC Hillman. "By better understanding different types of B cells and their location, we can aim to reinvigorate them and unleash their anti-tumor potential."
B cells are white blood cells, produced in the bone marrow, that neutralize pathogens -- such as bacteria, viruses and cancer cells -- and tag them for removal from the body. Memory B cells are particularly long-lived and "remember" pathogens, priming the immune system to respond quickly if it encounters the pathogen again. When someone has cancer or a chronic infection, their body may form tertiary lymphoid structures near or within the cancer. The structures contain immune cells -- predominantly B cells -- and patients with the structures tend to have better outcomes.
While doing her graduate work in Pitt's Program in Microbiology and Immunology, co-lead author Ayana Ruffin, Ph.D., now a postdoctoral research fellow at Emory University, observed that memory B cells were abundant in the blood of head and neck cancer patients -- particularly those doing well. Curious, she pored over existing research and found that, while double negative memory B cells were well-characterized in chronic infection and autoimmune studies, little was known about their role in cancer.
She turned from blood to tumor samples and found double negative memory B cells there as well -- but they were more dysfunctional, displaying features of exhaustion. Exhaustion is something cancer immunologists have been focused on with T cells -- immune cells that destroy pathogens, such as cancer. But Ruffin was one of the first to observe this exhaustion in memory B cells in and near tumors, outside of the tertiary lymphoid structure.
"Historically, B cells have largely been ignored in the cancer research field, with scientists instead favoring research on 'killer' T cells," said co-lead author Allison Casey, Ph.D. candidate in Pitt's Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology graduate program who took over the research when Ruffin graduated. "But B cells are really unique -- they're like the cool person at school who talks to everyone. They can use antibodies to neutralize pathogens and engage other immune cells. They educate T cells so they know to destroy cancer or infections."
Casey and the research team are now exploring existing cancer immunotherapies -- which are mostly aimed at helping T cells fight cancer -- to see if there are ways to modify them to also boost memory B cells. They're also investigating B cell therapies used in autoimmune diseases to see if they can be leveraged to fight cancer.
"This is a really good example of when a graduate student comes to you with an awesome idea and runs with it -- she breaks new ground in the field," Bruno said. "This research is a testament to what happens when students are encouraged to think creatively."

Greek brothers in medicine graduate as dentist and doctor in the same year

2025-02-24 - 2025-02

An aspirational achievement for two Melbourne based brothers from Albert Park, who have shown strong dedication, determination and perseverance to achieve successful careers in the medical field.
The eldest sibling, 25-year-old Dean Baziotis-Kalfas graduated with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science from Monash University in 2020. He then continued his further study by specialising in dentistry and completing a Doctor of Dental Surgery at The University of Melbourne in 2024.
Dean's younger sibling, 23-year-old Kristian studied a Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine at Monash University, graduating in 2024.
Proud Greek parents, Anna and Louis Baziotis-Kalfas were both born in Melbourne, however, Anna Baziotis-Kalfas's parents are from the town of Livadi in Thessaly and Louis Baziotis-Kalfas's parents are from Valchokerasia in the Peloponnese.
"We as parents can only guide our children through their different stages of education. We showed them how to embrace challenges and that hard work is rewarded," Louis Baziotis-Kalfas said.
"We were proud of the professions they chose, not for the prestige so much, but because of the vitality they play in improving the health and wellbeing of their patients and community at large," Anna Baziotis-Kalfas said.
The Baziotis-Kalfas brothers describe their degrees as "dynamic, difficult and rewarding".
Similarly, working in healthcare had always been a childhood passion for them.
"Our mother who works in the medical science field was a major inspiration for me to pursue a career in healthcare along with many of our relatives who work in healthcare in Greece and Australia," Kristian said.
Kristian is currently employed as an intern at Eastern Health, undergoing a surgical rotation at Box Hill Hospital as a junior doctor. His long-term aspiration is to pursue a career in surgery.
After graduating from Sir John Monash High School, Kristian successfully passed the UCAT exam and interview which allowed him to feel confident and ready to embrace the challenging path of medicine.
Both brothers were studying during the pandemic which made their degrees undeniably challenging. The transition to online classes for practical degrees made it difficult to uphold their motivation, however through their strong sense of brotherhood they continued to motivate one another through the toughest of times.
Developing the self-discipline to immerse themselves and maintaining focus to study played a crucial role to achieve academic success during the lockdown period. "Seeing Kristian work hard was also a great motivator, especially when I found myself procrastinating," Dean said.
Dean still recounts his first extraction with an emergency patient who was a Greek woman in her 80's.
"After the procedure, she hugged me and said, "Μου θυμίζεις τον εγγονό μου"-"You remind me of my grandson".
Moments like this reminded Dean why it was worthwhile to pursue his passion for dentistry.
Dean is currently employed at Family Dental Care in Doncaster East. Throughout his studies he taught Greek to students from grade three to year nine at Pythagoras Greek School.
Both brothers maintain a strong Greek cultural identity. They both serve as General Committee members of the Pallaconian Brotherhood Youth, where they have helped organise the annual Art and Culture Night which celebrated Greek artists, musicians and performers.
Their additional contributions to the Greek community include attending lectures hosted by GO Youth Melbourne and the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria. They also participated as student panellists at the Hellenic Medical Society of Australia Careers Day.
Outside of their medical professions both brothers have different extracurricular passions. Kristian speaks fluent Japanese and enjoys composing music, while Dean is fascinated by Ancient Greek Mythology and enjoys researching the Homer's Odyssey. Greek families are known for their close family ties and both brothers have set a great example of Greek family values.
"Dean and I share a deep bond, not only as brothers, but also as best friends. We're both passionate about medicine, dentistry and medical innovation which leads to some really enriching discussions," Kristian said.
Both the brothers' graduations were two days apart from each other in December 2024.
"Graduating together has been a unique and meaningful experience. After years of study, challenges and growth, reaching this milestone at the same time feels like a shared victory," Dean said.

Viking skulls reveal severe morbidity

2025-02-21 - 2025-02

Sweden's Viking Age population appears to have suffered from severe oral and maxillofacial disease, sinus and ear infections, osteoarthritis, and much more. This is shown in a study from the University of Gothenburg in which Viking skulls were examined using modern X-ray techniques.
About a year ago saw the publication of research based on the examination of a large number of teeth from the Viking Age population of Varnhem in the Swedish province of Vastergotland.
Varnhem is known for its thousands of ancient graves and excavations of well-preserved skeletons. Now, odontologists at the University of Gothenburg have taken this research further, looking at not only teeth but also entire skulls, by using modern computed tomography, also known as CT scans.
Detailed image analysis
The results presented in British Dental Journal Open suggest that the fifteen individuals whose skulls were examined suffered from a broad range of diseases.
The CT scans show pathological bone growths in the cranium and jawbone, revealing infections and other conditions.
Several individuals showed signs of having suffered from sinus or ear infections that left traces in the adjacent bone structures.
Signs of osteoarthritis and various dental diseases were also found.
All the skulls came from adults who died between 20 and 60 years of age.
The study lead, Carolina Bertilsson, is an assistant researcher at the University of Gothenburg and a dentist within Sweden's Public Dental Service.
The study was performed with specialists in dental radiology at the University of Gothenburg and an archaeologist from Vastergotlands museum.
Together, they conducted the examinations and analyzed the images.
CT scans provide three-dimensional images that enable researchers to study in detail the various types of skeletal damage, layer by layer, in the different parts of the skull.
Greater understanding
"There was much to look at. We found many signs of disease in these individuals. Exactly why we don't know. While we can't study the damage in the soft tissue because it's no longer there, we can see the traces left in the skeletal structures," says Carolina Bertilsson, and continues:
"The results of the study provide greater understanding of these people's health and wellbeing. Everyone knows what it's like to have pain somewhere, you can get quite desperate for help. But back then, they didn't have the medical and dental care we do, or the kind of pain relief -- and antibiotics -- we now have. If you developed an infection, it could stick around for a long time."
The study is described as a pilot study. One important aspect was to test CT as a method for future and more extensive studies. "Very many of today's archaeological methods are invasive, with the need to remove bone or other tissue for analysis. This way, we can keep the remains completely intact yet still extract a great deal of information," says Carolina Bertilsson.

For success in bioelectronics, build with nature-inspired design

2025-02-19 - 2025-02

Alexandra Rutz, an assistant professor of biomedical engineering at the McKelvey School of Engineering, and Somtochukwu Okafor, a doctoral student in Rutz's lab, have 3D printed bioelectronic scaffolds that have the properties cells need to form new tissue. They published the result of their work this month in the journal Advanced Materials Technologies.
"Most traditional scaffolds have been on materials that have been inspired by nature, but here, we are taking that concept and applying it to what we call functional materials," Rutz said. "These are materials that are designed to perform a certain function, such as being electronically conducting."
The bioelectronic scaffolds that Rutz and Okafor print appear as dark-colored dots about 6 millimeters in diameter -- about the size of a pencil eraser -- and are floating in water. Okafor has carefully created these tiny scaffolds with a polymer known as PEDOT:PSS, which she has processed into a water-based gel used as an ink.
"When you think of electronics, you aren't thinking of them being in water," Okafor said. "But that's an advantage of using PEDOT:PSS as the conducting material. We are creating hydrated electronics that maintain their electronic properties in an environment that can also sustain living systems."
Okafor, a fifth-year doctoral student in biomedical engineering, said that while their team isn't the only one using this process, their work is unique.
"Bioelectronics as a field isn't new -- think cochlear implants, pacemakers and smartwatches -- but we are trying to interface with biology to make the technology more like systems that would occur in nature," Okafor said. "We have borrowed approaches in 3D printing and tissue engineering and combined it with bioelectronics. All these processes have individual advantages that they bring to the table, and we are combining them into one."
Most traditional materials that conduct electricity are stiff, which may negatively impact formation of tissue. Rutz's lab created their scaffolds from a soft, conducting hydrogel and with pores that are about 150-300 microns in size that can influence how cells behave within the scaffold, such as how they attach to others, how they move through the scaffold and how they multiply. The pores help to form a lattice-like structure that grows upward to support the cells. The researchers can also adjust the angle of the pores so that the grid lines are diagonal instead of vertical and horizontal.
"The pores have to be big enough to allow the cells to move around, but small enough that the cells have structure to hold on to and don't fall through," Okafor said.
The tissue the team seeks to create could be used as human tissue or plant tissue, making it versatile for several uses.
"We have many projects in the lab that are envisioned for tissues-on-chips technology, where this could be used for drug development purposes, toxicology, environmental toxicity and other projects where human tissues are in a dish," Rutz said.

NHS 'recovery plan' fails to deliver new dentists or more appointments

2025-02-13 - 2025-02

NHS leaders have acknowledged a recovery plan for dentistry in England, launched by the previous Conservative government a year ago, has comprehensively failed.
One aspect of the plan - 'Golden Hello' payments to encourage dentists to start working in underserved areas - has seen only 39 dentists appointed out of a target of 240.
Another idea - the introduction of mobile dental vans - has completely failed to deliver any extra capacity.
At a Parliamentary committee NHS leaders acknowledged the fundamental problem was the contract that dentists are offered to carry out NHS work - and the best thing was to rip it up and start again.
The Dental Recovery Plan was first outlined by Conservative health ministers in February 2024, to try and address a crisis in NHS dentistry in England.
Many patients struggle to access NHS dental care, with some towns now known as 'Dental Deserts', in which there are simply no NHS dentists at all.
UK-wide research carried out by BBC News in 2022 found that 9 out of 10 NHS dentists were no longer accepting new adult patients.
8 out of 10 were no longer taking on children as patients, even though they are meant to be entitled to free care.
But senior bosses from NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) have now told a committee of MPs that the recovery plan outlined a year ago has failed.
Professor Sir Chris Whitty, currently Interim Permanent Secretary at the DHSC - the most senior civil servant - was asked whether the plan was on track to deliver the extra 1.5 million treatments for patients that had been promised by the last Government.
"The very short answer is no.
"Within the Dental recovery Plan, there were four components, of which I think one didn't start at all, which was on dental vans.
"There were three (additional) elements that were aiming to address recognised problems...but the solutions were unsuccessful."
Sir Chris said that a "patient premium" to incentivise dentists to take on new patients had failed to result in any significant increases in patient numbers.
A "Golden Hello" payment scheme has so far only seen an additional 39 dentists contracted to work in underserved areas, against a target of 240.
And a reform of the amount of money dentists are paid for individual treatments had failed to bridge the gap with what they earn for private work.

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