Antidepressants plus these therapies may help TMD

Combining antidepressants with treatments like oral appliances may help relieve pain and improve function in patients with a chronic temporomandibular disorder (TMD), according to a review recently published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation. However, further research is needed to better understand how these combined therapies can help these patients, the authors wrote. “Antidepressants, particularly when combined with non-pharmacological treatments, may enhance pain relief and functional outcomes for chronic TMD

Clinical tip: How to increase case acceptance using CBCT

Dr. Steven Hernandez, a member of the CDOCS faculty, is here to help you improve your case presentation skills using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Learn more about Dr. Hernandez and the multiple specialized offerings from CDOCS. Video transcript “This is Dr. Steven Hernandez with CDOCS.com, and today, I’d like to show you the power of the software and how you can increase case presentations, especially regarding implants. “So this patient walks in, and

Scientists use technology behind Forth Bridge paint to create dental treatment

Forth Rail Bridge. Credit: Andrew Bowden/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have developed a new dental treatment to protect the teeth from decay and acid erosion, using cutting-edge civil engineering technology used to create the Forth Bridge paint. The new treatment, Varnish VLC, is designed to combat tooth decay and acid erosion caused by everyday habits, particularly in children. The flake glass technology used to

Why oral diseases are climbing in kids, young adults

Global oral health problems among adolescents and young adults may have become more common and more disabling due to rising rates of periodontitis and tooth loss. This study was published recently in BMC Oral Health. Furthermore, these issues remain a major concern in both high- and low-resource countries, the authors wrote. “The prevalence and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of oral disorders among AYA (adolescents and young adults) have risen over

PRP shot may offer pain relief from TMJ osteoarthritis

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections after joint puncture may provide significant pain relief in patients with temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA), according to a review published recently in BMC Oral Health. Additionally, PRP treatment may improve mouth opening and joint sounds in these patients, the authors wrote. “Intra-articular PRP injection after joint puncture demonstrates a promising therapeutic effect for TMJOA,” wrote the authors, led by Feng Xu of the Jiujiang University Affiliated

Wiggly Teeth: When to Wiggle, When to Worry

The loss of baby teeth is an exciting milestone for kids. However, for parents, movable teeth can bring a mix of curiosity and concern. Should that loose tooth be left alone, or is it time for the intervention of a pediatric dentist? This blog dives into the signs of a normal wiggly tooth versus when to watch for trouble. From natural shedding to potential dental issues, here’s what you need

Is it time to screen patients with IBD for gum disease?

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may have a higher risk of developing periodontitis, highlighting the importance of regular screenings. This review was recently published in BMC Oral Health. Furthermore, patients with IBD may be more prone to developing gum disease due to shared genetic and immune-related factors, the authors wrote. “Considering the various oral manifestations and poor quality of life associated with IBD, it is important to be aware

How Diabetes Affects Your Oral Health: A Comprehensive Guide

Maintaining overall health is vital for everyone, but for individuals with diabetes, the connection between their condition and oral health often goes unnoticed. High blood sugar doesn’t just affect your body—it plays a significant role in your dental health too. This guide will explain how diabetes impacts your oral health, identify common oral health conditions linked to diabetes, and offer actionable tips for maintaining a healthy mouth. Whether you’re newly

Bottle-feeding may be linked to dental decay

Bottle-feeding toddlers to sleep may contribute to early childhood tooth decay, emphasizing the importance of phasing out this type of feeding when appropriate, according to a study recently published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health. Children who were bottle-fed at sleep time at age 3 had nearly twice as many teeth affected by tooth decay in early childhood, the authors wrote. “Early interventions addressing bottle feeding

Clinical tip: Chromic and PTFE suturing

This week’s clinical tip, courtesy of CDOCS, is designed to help elevate your knowledge and skills around suturing. Check out the video below from Dr. Doug Smail. You can also visit CDOCS to learn more, and learn more about CDOCS’ hands-on workshops. Video transcript “Hi. It’s Dr. Doug Smail with CDOCS. Today’s tip of the day video is on suturing with chromic gut suture and cytoplast PTFE suture. Now the reason I chose

Brasseler names new endodontic sales team

Brasseler USA has launched its endodontist specialty sales consultant team to provide expert support and tailored solutions for endodontists. The team will offer guidance on treatment protocols and access to Brasseler’s full product portfolio, according to the company.

The surprising way aligners may give oral health a boost

Orthodontic treatments, particularly clear aligners (CAs), may improve oral health by stabilizing the oral microbiota and minimizing plaque buildup. This study was recently published in the International Dental Journal. Additionally, aligners may enhance oral health markers, including reducing enamel demineralization, increasing microbiome alpha diversity, and creating greater microbial heterogeneity, the authors wrote. “This study offers a comprehensive look at how orthodontic treatments and oral health conditions affect microbial communities and