Video Consultations: A Game-Changer for Oral Hygiene?

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Maintaining optimal oral health often comes down to effective oral hygiene practices. Traditional dental advice, while helpful, can sometimes fall short in motivating patients to adopt consistent and proper brushing and flossing techniques. A recent study titled “A randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of personalised oral hygiene advice delivered via video technology” written by Derele Buck and et. al. appearing in the Journal of Dentistry Available online on July 15, 2024, explored the potential of personalized video consultations to bridge this gap. Researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the impact of personalized oral hygiene advice delivered via video technology. The study aimed to determine if this approach could improve oral health outcomes compared to standard oral hygiene advice provided in traditional dental settings. Participants were divided into two groups: one receiving standard oral hygiene advice and the … Read more

A New Era for Impacted Canine Treatment

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Impacted canines, teeth that fail to erupt correctly, can pose a significant challenge in orthodontic treatment. Traditionally, exposing these buried teeth has required a surgical procedure. However, a recent study published in the Journal of Dentistry titled “Computer-assisted open exposure of palatally impacted canines for orthodontic eruption: A randomized clinical trial” written by Márton Kivovics and et. al. in the Journal of Dentistry, Volume 147, August 2024, suggests a promising advancement in this area: computer-assisted surgery. Researchers compared a traditional surgical approach with a newer method that employs advanced technology. This innovative technique involves creating a customized surgical guide based on detailed 3D scans of the patient’s mouth. The guide acts as a precision roadmap for the surgeon, improving accuracy and efficiency during the procedure. The study found that while computer-assisted surgery didn’t reduce post-operative pain compared to traditional methods, … Read more

Dental Malpractice: Patient Seeks Damages After Wrong Tooth Pulled

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A patient is suing a dental practice for a up to a million dollars after a serious dental error occurred during a routine procedure. According to the lawsuit in Texas, the dentist allegedly mistakenly extracted the wrong tooth and then attempted to improperly reinsert it. Specifically the lawsuit says after the dentist allegedly pulling the wrong tooth the dentist then tried “stuff the tooth into the socket”. As a result of the dental malpractice, the patient claims to be experiencing severe ongoing pain and mental anguish and requires extensive corrective dental work. The lawsuit alleges negligence on the part of the dentist and the dental practice. The lawsuit further asserts the dental practice has negligent hiring practices and creates an unreasonable risk of harm to patients. This case highlights the importance of thorough dental care and patient safety. Dental errors … Read more

Wisdom Teeth Extraction Leads to Rare Bacterial Infection: A Case Study

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An interesting case is discussed in the article “Bilateral Jaw Mycobacterium Abscessus Mimicking Actinomycosis: A Postoperative Complication of Wisdom Teeth Extraction” written by Michael Johanis and et. al. Published, June 13, 2024. The article discusses how nontuberculous mycobacteria infections has surged over recent decades. They report a case of a 22-year-old healthy female who had with bilateral mandibular nodules after wisdom teeth extraction. The young woman experienced a scare after getting her wisdom teeth removed. While doctors first suspected a common infection called actinomycosis, cultures revealed a Mycobacterium abscessus infection susceptible to macrolides. This bacteria is becoming more prevalent and can be difficult to diagnose because it mimics other infections, like actinomycosis. This can lead to delays in getting the right treatment.   The key to getting the right treatment is early and accurate diagnosis, which is often achieved through culture testing. This helps … Read more

Investigation Between Oral Health and Alzheimer’s Disease

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Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that attacks the brain cells responsible for memory, thinking, and behavior. Over time, the symptoms worsen, leading to memory loss, confusion, difficulty with language and reasoning, and changes in personality and behavior. In the later stages, sufferers may require assistance with daily activities. The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is unknown, but it’s linked to the buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain. Maintaining good oral health is essential for a good smile, but a new report suggests it may also play a role in protecting your brain. The CareQuest Institute for Oral Health has released a study highlighting a potential connection between poor oral health and an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). The study was published at https://www.carequest.org/system/files/CareQuest-Institute_Poor-Oral-Health-May-Contribute-to-the-Risk-of-Dementia-Visual-Report_4.25.24.pdf The report raises several interesting points. Adults diagnosed with Alzheimer’s … Read more