Researchers at Duke Medicine have identified a protein that is critical to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD) pain and could be a promising target for developing treatments for the condition (Pain, August 2013, Vol. 154:8, pp. 1295-1304). Aside from cases related to trauma, little is known about the root cause of TMJD, the study authors noted. They focused on TRPV4, an ion channel protein that allows calcium to rapidly enter cells,
MedActive Oral Pharmaceuticals has launched a protocol trial using patients with Sjögren’s syndrome to test its products for relief of xerostomia. Xerostomia is caused by salivary gland dysfunction, one of the symptoms associated with Sjögren’s syndrome, the company noted in a press release. MedActive makes oral care products that address the need for continuous and comprehensive management of salivary dysfunction, mucosal hydration, bacterial overgrowth, sensitivity, oral thrush, inflammation, demineralization, and
Coltène has launched the Componeer Class V prefabricated composite shell system. Cervical defects are typically treated using adhesive bonding and composite. The new approach is to place Componeer Class V prefabricated polymerized shells, made from radiopaque nano-hybrid composite based on the company’s Synergy D6 system, the company noted in a press release. The facial anatomic template facilitates the direct treatment of cervical lesions with a lasting aesthetic solution, offering easier
Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), a surgical procedure that moves both the upper and/or lower mandibles forward, can yield a noticeable improvement in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), according to a study in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (August 2013, Vol. 71:8, pp. 1397-1405). The study is significant to patients with the dangerous and often life-threatening signs of airway obstruction during sleep, according to the American Association of Oral
DentalEZ Group has introduced the StarDental Titan e-type motor and attachments. The motor is an adaptable low-speed motor built on the foundation of the Titan 3 motor and is designed to work with all standard e-type attachments, according to a company press release. The Titan e-type motor features a new lightweight aluminum exterior and has the traditional core design of stainless steel. It features forward and reverse functions and is
The New York State Dental Association (NYSDA) is applauding the passage of a new law that allows dental hygienists working in certain facilities to work under collaborative agreements with dentists who have a formal relationship with the same facility. The legislation — A.7866, sponsored by Assemblywoman Deborah Glick, and S.5757, sponsored by Sen. Kemp Hannon — passed overwhelmingly in both the New York State Assembly (138-2) and the Senate (60-3)
Omega-3 fatty acids, contained in oily fish such as salmon and trout, selectively inhibit growth and induce cell death in early- and late-stage oral and skin cancers, according to new research from scientists at Queen Mary, University of London (Carcinogenesis, July 24, 2013). In vitro tests showed omega-3 fatty acids induced cell death in malignant and premalignant cells at doses that did not affect normal cells, suggesting they have the
Dental x-rays and dental hygiene appointments are safe for pregnant women, according to new recommendations issued by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG; Obstetrics & Gynecology, August 2013, Vol. 122:2, pp. 417-422). In fact, the ACOG is advising all obstetricians and gynecologists to perform routine oral health assessments at the first prenatal visit and encourage their patients to see a dentist during pregnancy, according to the Committee on
Drinking milk after eating sugary breakfast cereal reduces plaque acid levels and may prevent damage to tooth enamel, according to a study in the Journal of the American Dental Association (July 2013, Vol. 144:7, pp. 815-822). Dry ready-to-eat, sugar-added cereals combine refined sugar and starch. When those carbohydrates are consumed, bacteria in the dental plaque on tooth surfaces produce acids, according to Christine Wu, PhD, a professor of pediatric dentistry
Peridontal disease can significantly impact a person’s overall quality of life, according to a new study published in the Journal of Periodontology (July 29, 2013). A team of Swedish researchers performed clinical and radiographic exam on 443 individuals. In addition, all study participants assessed their oral health-related quality of life using the Swedish short-form version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). The researchers found that the effect of periodontal
Students in West Virginia public schools will participate in a prevention-focused oral health program, according to an Associated Press article. The program, which will begin in the fall with the new school year, will focus on the particular needs of each student group from prekindergarten to 12th grade, the article explained. Marshall University registered dental hygienists are serving as regional health coordinators and will expand in-school dental sealant and fluoride
A sensor embedded in a tooth could one day help track a person’s daily eating, drinking, smoking, coughing, and speaking habits. Researchers from National Taiwan University developed the sensor, which is less than 1-cm long, includes an accelerometer for transmitting data, machine learning software, and a microbattery, according to news reports. They are also working to equip the sensor with wireless capabilities so it could transmit data to the user’s