Drilling Down: Essential Dental Reads from MLMIC
Navigating the sheer volume of information in the dental field can feel overwhelming. So, how do you cut through the noise to find the insights that truly impact your daily practice?
At MLMIC, we understand this challenge. That’s why we’re bringing you a hand-picked selection of vital articles, offering clear, concise summaries and direct links to the most relevant industry news and analysis. Consider this your go-to resource for staying sharp and well-informed.
Let’s take a look at our curations for the month of July:
Popular Weight Loss Drugs Affecting Oral Health
“Ozempic teeth” is a term used by dentists to describe the reported dental health issues, such as decay, sensitivity and tooth loss, experienced by some individuals using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic for diabetes and weight loss.
Several factors may contribute to this:
- Dry mouth: A common side effect of GLP-1 drugs, it reduces saliva, which is vital for protecting tooth enamel.
- Nausea and vomiting: Repeated exposure to stomach acid can erode tooth enamel.
- Malnutrition: Appetite suppression can negatively affect gum health.
- Reduced oral care: When feeling unwell, individuals might neglect their oral hygiene.
To help mitigate these effects, experts recommend staying hydrated, maintaining consistent oral hygiene, eating a nutrient-rich diet and using products that support saliva production.
Updates from The American Dental Association
This latest article from ADA Forsyth Friday discusses ongoing research into Saccharibacteria (TM7), an ultra-small bacterium found in the oral cavity that was previously difficult to study. A breakthrough in 2015 allowed scientists to culture TM7, revealing its episymbiotic relationship with other host bacteria.
Recent research, particularly from Dr. Batbileg Bor’s lab at ADA Forsyth, suggests that while TM7 was initially thought to contribute to periodontal disease, it may actually mitigate inflammation and bone loss, based on observations in mouse models. This discovery opens potential avenues for TM7 as a therapeutic mechanism. However, researchers are still investigating the precise ways TM7 reduces inflammation, why it binds to certain bacteria and whether it directly interacts with human cells.
Additional information regarding this breakthrough research can be found here.
Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry
According to the National Institutes of Health, the use and development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in dentistry is rapidly expanding, transforming nearly every facet of the practice. AI-powered systems are increasingly being utilized to enhance diagnostic accuracy, with algorithms capable of analyzing radiographs, intraoral scans and 3D images to detect issues like cavities, gum disease and even oral cancer earlier and more precisely than traditional methods.
Beckers Dental + DSO Review outlines some of the most notable updates in AI in dentistry over the last five years. Read their detailed review here.
Harvard’s Thoughts on Children’s Oral Health and Increased Costs with a Nationwide Fluoride Ban
A study by researchers from Mass General Brigham and Harvard School of Dental Medicine modeled the potential costs and health impacts of a nationwide ban on fluoride in public drinking water. The study found that eliminating fluoride would lead to an estimated 25.4 million more decayed teeth over five years, resulting in significant additional dental care costs of $9.8 billion over five years and $19.4 billion over ten years. A large portion of these increased costs would affect publicly insured children. The research highlights the ongoing benefits of fluoride at recommended safe levels and the substantial negative consequences of its removal from public water systems.
Discover additional insights into this significant issue here.
As we wrap up our first edition of MLMIC’s dental news, we hope these curated articles have provided valuable insights and helped you stay abreast of the dynamic world of dentistry. Our goal is to empower your practice by bringing you to the root of the most relevant industry research and developments.
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This document is for general purposes only and should not be construed as medical, dental or legal advice. This document is not comprehensive and does not cover all possible factual circumstances. Because the facts applicable to your situation may vary, or the laws applicable in your jurisdiction may differ, please contact your attorney or other professional advisors for any questions related to legal, medical, dental or professional obligations, the applicable state or federal laws or other professional questions.
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