Smoking, drinking, depression affect gum disease risk

Alone and together, lifestyle factors like smoking, excessive drinking, and depression may significantly affect the risk of developing periodontitis, according to a study published on May 6 in BMC Oral Health. Among people with depression, smoking significantly may raise the likelihood of periodontitis. Additionally, when smoking and heavy alcohol consumption co-occur, there may be a considerable increase in periodontitis prevalence, according to the study. “There were interactive effects between smoking,

Grin launches 3D dental treatment tracker

Virtual care platform Grin has introduced its new treatment tracking technology, the Grin 3D Tx Tracker. The tracker is designed to provide orthodontic practitioners with a precise method for monitoring treatment progress. Compatible with major aligner brands and custom digital braces, it uses patented computer vision technology to compare 2D patient scans with expected 3D treatment stages on a tooth-by-tooth basis. Key features include the following: Real-time data visualization for

Ormco launches Spark aligners on-demand program

Ormco Corporation has introduced the Spark on-demand program. The program allows clinicians to order Spark aligners and Prezurv Plus retainers in any quantity without signing up for subscriptions. Starting May 5, the program will be available to Spark providers in the U.S.

Preserving natural dentition: A conservative approach to restoring a cracked posterior tooth

In restorative dentistry, the preservation of natural tooth structure remains a primary objective, aligned with the principles of minimally invasive dentistry. This case study highlights the successful restoration of a cracked posterior tooth using a full-coverage zirconia crown and the immediate dentin sealing (IDS) technique. By employing evidence-based protocols, advanced materials, and a meticulous clinical approach, the clinician delivered a durable, functional, and aesthetic solution that addressed the patient’s concerns

Ivoclar optimizes restoration material, adds new color

Ivoclar Group has optimized the viscosity of the light-curing variant Variolink Esthetic LC and added a new white opaque shade to its product line. Variolink Esthetic LC, the light-curing variant, now has improved viscosity for easier handling and precise veneer alignment. Variolink Esthetic DC, the dual-curing variant, retains its ideal viscosity for posterior restorations, according to Ivoclar. Variolink Esthetic, when used with Monobond Plus and Monobond Etch & Prime

These materials show promise for filling dental defects

The calcium fluoride phosphate fluorapatite (FA) or zinc-doped FA (ZnFA) showed potential as effective bone fillers for treating tooth defects. The study was published on May 11 in the Journal of Dentistry. Additionally, they may serve as a substitute for autograft materials, which are the current gold standard in restorative dentistry, the authors wrote. “These materials could serve as viable substitutes for bone regeneration, serving as artificial, off-the-shelf bone fillers,”

Kuraray launches new adhesive

Dental adhesive technology company Kuraray Noritake Dental has launched its Clearfil Universal Bond Quick 2. This advanced single-bottle adhesive enhances its original adhesive monomer with a proprietary blend of monomers for application without a separate activation step and waiting period. Additionally, the adhesive is designed for various restorative procedures, including light-cured composite fillings and self-adhesive cementation. It is available in bottle and unit-dose options.

When DME should be used prior to restorations

Deep margin elevation (DME) may effectively address various clinical challenges associated with subgingival margins before restorations, but it can’t be used on every patient, according to a review article published on May 12 in the Journal of Dentistry. When patients are motivated and have good oral hygiene, when rubber dam isolation is in place, the connective tissue space is not invaded, and a strict restorative protocol is followed, DME may

Technique corrected child’s crossbite without orthodontics

Repositioning the way a 10-month-old infant was bottle fed corrected his anterior crossbite, and his top and bottom teeth were in normal alignment by the time he was a toddler, according to a new case report from Columbia University dental students. Though this technique, which highlights a very early intervention without the use an orthodontic appliance, warrants further research, it has the potential to reduce the need for patients to

Grinding to a halt: 3 common medications that cause bruxism

Medications play a critical role in treating a plethora of health conditions, but they aren’t without their drawbacks. One significant oral health issue influenced by medication is bruxism — a condition characterized by involuntary teeth grinding and clenching. This condition can result in enamel erosion, increased tooth sensitivity, and a higher risk of cavities. In some instances, it may even lead to fractures, which may require tooth extraction. Dentists must be familiar

5 medications that can cause tooth discoloration

Teeth stains are commonly associated with poor oral hygiene and habits like smoking tobacco. Plaque accumulation can lead to the yellowing of teeth, while tobacco use often results in dark stains. However, beyond these well-known causes, certain medications can also contribute to tooth discoloration, a factor that dental care professionals should aware of in their practice. 1. Chlorhexidine: One medication frequently encountered in dental settings is chlorhexidine, an antibacterial mouthwash commonly prescribed for gum

This treatment may give patients the prettiest smile

For treating a gummy smile, orthognathic surgery may result in greater improvements in attractiveness compared to botulinum toxin (BTX). The study was recently published in the Journal of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery. Despite being more invasive, orthognathic surgery with impacted upper jaw teeth offers permanent improvements in smile attractiveness, the authors wrote. “There was a significant improvement in smile attractiveness with treatment in both groups; however, the improvement was significantly better in