April 2005

GDC Trivandrum faces threat of derecognition
Friday, April 29, 2005 | gp

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Government Dental College here is facing the threat of derecognition due to anomalies in the promotion norms being followed by the State Government and the Dental Council of India.

The Dental Council has already written to the State Government expressing concern over the posting of an assistant professor in the college without following the prescribed qualification norms.

According to the Dental Council of India, only those with MDS degree and three-year experience after receiving the MDS can be promoted to the post of assistant professor. However, three-year experience after receiving the MDS was not needed for promotion to the post of assistant professor as per the special rules of the State Government.

Last year, the Government Dental College, Kottayam, had been in a similar plight as a senior lecturer was promoted and posted as assistant professor.

The Dental Council of India had then delayed granting its endorsement for admissions to the Dental College, as the assistant professor did not have the mandatory three-year experience after completing the MDS. The basic qualification for appointment to the post of lecturer in dental colleges is only BDS.

The issue was resolved when the assistant professor was transferred to the Government Dental College, Thiruvananthapuram. This became possible because the inspection in the Dental College, Thiruvananthapuram, had already been completed.

However, the issue again cropped up this year with the beginning of the procedures for admissions to BDS courses. There are only three dental colleges in the government sector now and they are in Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram and Kottayam.

Source:newindpress.com

Meth mouth" becoming expensive condition in N.C.
Wednesday, April 27, 2005 | gp

It's called "meth mouth," and it can turn a set of teeth into something resembling a rotting picket fence.

The dental condition is found among methamphetamine addicts. It's the result of the drug's tendency to dry out saliva, which defends teeth against rotting. Teeth that don't fall out must be yanked out, and the problem is beginning to pull on taxpayer wallets

Indian Dental Association watching developments on triclosan'
Wednesday, April 27, 2005 | gp

Indian Dental Association watching developments on triclosan'

THE Indian Dental Association (IDA) said it has not issued any guidance to dentists so far on the `triclosan' issue, which is causing a stir among oral care manufacturers globally.

The presence of triclosan in toothpastes raised some questions across the globe last week, after researchers at US-based Virginia Tech University claimed to have found that this chemical reacts with chlorine in tap water to produce chloroform, a probable carcinogen. This research finding led to questions on whether it is safe to use toothpastes or any other product containing triclosan.

Colgate Total is one of the toothpastes available in India that contains triclosan. A Colgate spokesperson said, "Colgate toothpaste has been reviewed and approved by regulatory bodies around the world, including the US FDA, the UK Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Authorities and numerous other governmental and regulatory bodies. The laboratory study recently reported in the press did not involve toothpaste or present any reason for concern about the safe use of Colgate Total toothpaste."

Decline of Silver Filling
Monday, April 25, 2005 | gp

A new array of dental materials is offering patients more options than ever.

No longer is the silver amalgam the only option in the dentist's armamentarium for filling cavities. Recent advances in polymers (plastics) have made possible filling materials nearly as strong as silver and formulated to match the color of teeth.

Tooth-colored fillings, termed “composite resin,” are placed using a special dental adhesive and literally “bonded” to the tooth, often minimizing the amount of tooth that needs to be removed. These more conservative cavity preparations can lead to lengthening the life of the filling and the tooth itself.

Dental decay is still a widespread finding in children and adults and is considered pandemic in children. For children, cavities are a common problem that begins at an early age.

Given the growing need for dental care, especially among economically disadvantaged children and families, the loss of silver amalgam as a cost-effective option could adversely affect the health of millions . Particularly in young children, where moisture control might prevent using composite resin, silver amalgam may represent the best way of treating a decayed tooth and helping to maintain the oral health of the child.

While there have been many reports in the press of the potential harmful effects of dental amalgam, there is no scientific basis for any disease or illness that has been ascribed to this filling material.

In many situations, dentists and patients prefer composite resin materials. When aesthetics are of prime concern and cost is not a significant factor in the treatment planning decisions, modern composite resins and adhesives can produce a long-lasting restoration.

However, despite the progress made in composite resin materials, silver amalgam is still considered the most cost-effective material for numerous clinical situations.

Selection test for entry into Aussie med programmes
Sunday, April 24, 2005 | gp

TWO Australian institutions of higher learning, the University of Western Australia (UWA) and Monash University, will require students to sit for a selection test for entry into their respective medical programmes.

Candidates who are interested in applying for admission into the February 2006 intake for medicine in Monash University, or medicine and dentistry in UWA, are required to sit for the International Student Admission Test (ISAT).

ISAT is produced by the Australian Council for Education Research and aims to assess a candidate’s critical and quantitative reasoning abilities.

It will measure how well the candidate is able to cope with the intellectual demands of the course.

The test will be administered by IDP Education Australia and conducted on April 28, May 18 and June 14.

Candidates should remember that both universities also have closing dates for applications into the medical and/or dentistry programmes and should therefore apply early.

They can register for the ISAT through any one of the following IDP offices:


IDP Education Australia Subang Jaya, Selangor (03-5636 5548);

Penang (04-226 1811);

Johor Baru (07-333 0668); and

Kuching (082-233 645).

The constitution of mineral trioxide aggregate
Saturday, April 23, 2005 | gp

Summary
Objectives
The aim of this study was to determine the constitution of a commercially available root-end filling material, mineral trioxide aggregate, (MTA) (ProRoot MTA, Tulsa Dental, Tulsa, OK, USA). The surface morphology of the material with various treatment conditions was also evaluated.

Methods
The constitution of two commercial versions of MTA was determined before and after mixing with water. The unset material was analysed using Energy Dispersive Analysis by X-ray (EDAX) in a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The first technique identified the constituent elements while XRD analysis identified the compounds or phases present. The set material was evaluated using EDAX. The surface morphology of the material stored under various conditions (100% humidity, immersion in water, or immersion in phosphate solution) was evaluated using SEM.

Results
The EDAX showed the white MTA to be composed primarily of calcium, silicon, bismuth and oxygen, with the gray MTA also having small peaks for iron and aluminum. The XRD analysis showed gray MTA to be composed primarily of tricalcium silicate and dicalcium silicate. The surface morphology of the materials differed under the various conditions, particularly following immersion in phosphate solution with crystal formation.

Significance
The commercial versions of MTA were shown to have broadly similar constitution to ordinary Portland cement except for the addition of bismuth compounds. The white MTA did not contain iron.


Source:Dental Materials
Volume 21, Issue 4 , April 2005, Pages 297-303

Brush Twice a day
Saturday, April 23, 2005 | gp

The turn of the century has seen that oral care has had considerable influence on the lifestyle changes among different populations. This has also reflected on home oral care and the resultant cross cultural dental hygiene.

Our cultural experience has shown that tooth brushing once daily (usually in the morning) has been the accepted norm and individuals continue to abide by the same.

Contrary to the above, scientific literature has claimed that brushing once daily may not considerably reduce the “tooth decay” or “gum disease” risk for an individual.


Positive results

Studies based on lifestyle practices in oral care with emphasis on frequency of tooth brushing have revealed that the frequency does indeed have positive implications on the oral health of an individual.

Studies held in Western populations as compared to those in the Third world have revealed that the considerable deterioration of oral health in the latter may be attributed to numerous causes, one of which that stands out most is the higher level of daily oral care practiced by the populations in the former.

As compared to 64 per cent of the population who laid claim to brushing their teeth twice daily in Europe and the West (Adult Dental Health Survey, 1998), the Third world hardly claimed any comparison in that regard.

The American Dental Association highly recommends brushing twice daily as a home activity to reduce the decay and gum disease risk for an individual. These recommendations are substantiated by inferences drawn by the British Association for the Study of Community Dentistry and the UK Health Education Council, which emphasises on incorporation of fluorides in tooth pastes, dietary modulation and on brushing habits.

In particular, tooth brushing when performed in the morning reduces the acid attack of the “germs” that is, bacteria causing tooth decay or gum disease for a short duration soon after it is practiced. It loses its efficacy as the day progress as the oral cavity is exposed to the assault of various food substances. At night, especially during sleep, a mouth with stagnant saliva laden with food debris acts as an environment favourable for tooth decay and gum disease producing bacteria which multiply.

Likely so we have had studies like the report of the National Diet And Nutrition Survey that showed that there was a reduction in onset in occurrence of dental decay in school children by 24% who brushed their teeth more than once a day.

Oral vanity

Oral vanity is a feeling of freshness one normally desires after brushing. Oral Malodour seems to decline considerably when oral care improves. Brushing before going to bed has been found to reduce the fetid odour of oral stagnant fluids at nights and instills the “freshness” one so desires at the break of dawn. Nowadays our diet is full of sticky fast foods, refined sugar confectioneries and sugar containing “fizzy drinks”.

Such diets within the day also effectively increase the decay and gum disease risk of an individual. Desirably one should consider brushing after each meal if time and occasion permits.

Frequent check ups and an oral hygiene plan chalked out by a dentist is undeniably the need of the hour. No patient can maintain even the best dental treatment if his/her at-home care is lacking. Individual requirements necessitate individual prescription but there is consensus based on evidence that frequency of tooth brushing has positive ramifications on oral health.

Apart from dentists, other strong influences are oral care brands who can make an impact in this initiative to increase night brushing in India. With adherence to this, individuals may attain a desirable self confidence in today’s world.

Dental implants...The Real Story Part 2
Saturday, April 23, 2005 | gp

It’s no fun when you’re missing teeth. You may not feel comfortable eating or speaking. You might even avoid smiling in public. Fortunately, dental implants can help. Implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or all the teeth in your mouth. Best of all, they look and feel like natural teeth.

When teeth are missing

It can be embarrassing to have spaces in your mouth where teeth are missing. But you’re not alone. some people lose teeth due to injury, tooth decay, or periodontal disease—infection of gum and bone surrounding teeth. Others may not have had all their teeth grow in. Whatever the reason, dental implants can help replace missing teeth. Implants often feel more natural than dentures or other dental restorations.

Implants can help

If you want a dental restoration that looks and feels as though it’s really part of your mouth, dental implants may be right for you. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root. Your jawbone fuses with the implant to provide a secure platform for a prosthesis—artificial tooth. If you are missing many teeth, several implants can be used to support the partial or complete denture.

Working together

Throughout the implant process you’ll work closely with a dental team. Part of the team prepares your jaw and surgically places the implant. Others build and adjust the prosthesis. Your surgeon maybe an oral surgeon, periodontist, or general dentist skilled in dental implants procedures. Your restorative dentist maybe a prosthodontist or a general dentist.

Understanding your role

Depending on your dental needs, total treatment time for implants can range anywhere from several months up to a year or more. Without a strong commitment from you, implants are less likely to be successful. For best results be prepared to:

•Keep all of your appointments.

•Take good care of your mouth during the implant process.

•Commit to a lifetime of good oral hygiene.

•Have dental checkups at least twice a year.

•Contact team members if you have any problems.

Your Dental Evaluation

To learn whether you’re a candidate for dental implants, you will have a dental evaluation. The evaluation includes a dental exam, a dental and medical history, and imaging tests. As part of the exam, the health and structure of your mouth are studied. This helps the dental team determine where to place the implants.

Your dental exam

An exam supplies important details about the structure of your mouth. Your bite is studied to see how your jaws and teeth fit together. The condition of your jaws, gums, head and neck is also checked. This is done to see if your mouth is ready to accept implants. During the exam:

The height and width of your jawbones are measured. This is done to make sure there is enough bone to hold the implant.

Your gums are examined for signs of periodontal disease. Diseased gums need to be treated before implants can be placed.

Your gums are also checked to see if there is enough firm tissue to surround an implant.

Your Dental History

The more your surgeon learns about you, the more successful your implant surgery is likely to be. Your dental and medical history is an important part of this learning process. It includes questions about your overall health and any previous dental treatments, such as crowns and bridges. You’ll also discuss your expectations. Why do you want implants? What do you hope the result will be? Finally, you’ll discuss factors that can affect healing after surgery. These include smoking and the use of certain medications.

Ongoing Medical Conditions

If you have an ongoing medical condition, such as diabetes, you may have blood tests. This is to make sure your condition is under control before treatment begins. Also, be sure to tell your surgeon if you take medications, such as insulin or a blood thinner, including aspirin.

The Importance of Imaging Tests

Imaging tests are a key part of the dental evaluation. They make it possible to view parts of the mouth and head that can not be seen during an exam. Imaging tests also help your surgeon learn more about the quantity of the bone in your mouth.

Dental x-rays show teeth and jaws.

Panoramic x-rays provide a wide view of the jaws, teeth, nerves, and sinuses. They can also help indicate a bone problem.

Other imaging tests, such as a CT Scan or x-ray tomography, may also be used.

Forming a treatment plan

After the evaluation, your surgeon and restorative dentist will each discuss treatment options with you. You will also talk about any dental work or special procedures you may need before the implant process can begin.

A solid foundation for implants

Having a healthy mouth is just as important for implants as it is for natural teeth. If you don’t have enough healthy bone or gum tissue in your mouth, you may need a graft before implants can be placed. Grafting helps build a solid foundation for implants. You’ll probably have to wait for a graft to heal before you can have implant surgery. If you have periodontal disease, it will also need to be treated prior to placing the implants.

If you need a graft

Graft surgery can build up bone or gum tissue in an area where it’s lacking. It can also replace bone and gum tissue that has been lost due to disease or trauma. One type of graft surgery is the sinus lift—a procedure to build up bone at the bottom of the maxillary sinus. This adds height to the jawbone, ensuring enough bone to hold an implant.

•Bone for a graft may be taken from your jaw, hip, or other sources. Sometimes a synthetic (artificial) graft is used.

•A graft to build up gum tissue usually comes from your own mouth.

Outlining Your Treatment Plan

If you’re a good candidate for implants, the dental team will talk with you about a treatment plan. You’ll also discuss the costs and time that may be involved. Keep in mind, your commitment during the process will be crucial. In many cases it will take at least several months before new prosthetic teeth can be attached to implants. If you need a graft or treatment for periodontal disease, the process is likely to take longer.

You Have Alternatives

If dental implants are not right for you now, consider your alternatives. One option may be a bridge to replace your missing teeth. If you already have a denture, adjusting it for a better fit may help. You can also decide to have implants at a later time. Together, you and your surgeon will decide what is best for you.

Mercury fillings do not contribute to low birth weight, study finds
Saturday, April 23, 2005 | gp

A study at the department of dental public health sciences at the University of Washington has concluded that moms who get mercury-based silver amalgam fillings are not threatening the birth weight of their newborns as once thought. In a blow to mercury hysteria, the study’s authors examined dental records of women who had low birth weight babies, and did not find any correlation.

The saftey of mercury fillings is a hot topic of debate. Some doctors and countries recommend against silver amalgam fillings, which some claim can leach as much as 15 micrograms of mercury into the body per day. The US Food and Drug Administration has refused to ban the fillings, which these professionals and activists claim amounts to gross negligence.

Other medical professionals, however, dispute the naysayers. They point out that studies show dentists - who are exposed to mercury daily - show no significant difference in mercury levels compared to the general populace. Medical sites such as Quackwatch urge consumers to look with a jaundiced eye upon any dentist who claims they can “test” for mercury levels. Pregnant women, who are bombarded with daily messages about activities and habits that might harm their babies, are especially susceptible to being scammed by unscrupulous medical professionals.

( sources of information: EPA FAQ on mercury, WHO recommended mercury intake levels)

The Mercury Hype
Saturday, April 23, 2005 | gp

VADODARA: It looks innocuous as it rises and falls with temperature change in your thermometer. But, it could well be finding its way into your body, damaging kidneys or affecting foetus development.


For, though hospitals in Gujarat have devised ways of dealing with bio-medical waste since the Supreme Court put in place stringent norms for disposal, this dangerous substance seems to have escaped its dragnet.

Environmentalists say hospitals and private doctors are flouting the Supreme Court's 'Bio-medical Wastes, Management and Handling Rules' which state that no heavy metal like mercury should be incinerated.

Spilled mercury is supposed to be recycled, but experts allege that few doctors or hospitals, do so. The Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) is yet to formulate a viable system by which mercury or amalgam wastes can be collected and recycled.

"As little as 0.9 gram of mercury can pollute a 25-acre lake. It is nephrotoxic and affects the central nervous system. It is dangerous for pregnant women because it can quickly cross the placental barrier and affect the growth of a foetus," says Ravi Aggarwal of Toxic Link, a Delhi based environmental NGO.

A senior member of the bio-medical waste task force set up by the Gujarat government revealed that under the present system of waste disposal, highly toxic wastes are dumped in a "black bag", and send to the incinerating units.

"Mercury wastes, along with cytotoxic and radioactive wastes generated at various hospitals are carelessly dumped in black bags and then sent to incinerators without any precaution," says the member.

"We have been pressurising the GPCB to consider bioremedies where bacteria, biological enzymes or organic compounds are used to break mercury down into a variety of salts. Another method is to collect it separately from various hospitals and send it back to the dealer for recycling," the member adds.

Amrish Mehta, Gujarat secretary of the Indian Dental Association says that most dentists are yet to comply with the basic disposal methods of mercury. "We will approach the GPCB soon to initiate a separate collection and recycling system," he said.

Former India wicket-keeper Nayan Mongia, who is one of the largest wholesaler of medical equipment in Vadodara, says, "Normally, spilled mercury is supposed to be returned to the dealer. I have not come across any doctor who has returned spilled mercury to me."

The World Health Organisation has already published alternatives for mercury like use of digital thermometers.

The mercury can also be replaced by Gallium-tin alloy.

"Pressure measuring devices, which also use mercury, can use piezoelectric crystals or fibre optic pressure sensors," says Aggarwal.

"By 2010, the EU will convert 15,000 tonnes of mercury into ore and pump it back into the earth. India and China are the only countries where mercury is used widely.

What is more dangerous is that mercury thermometers are used in homes and no one knows how they are disposed off," he adds.


Source:India Times

Prevent Cavities when they are young
Saturday, April 23, 2005 | gp

Providing proper care and oral hygiene during preschool years can mean a lifetime of good oral health, according to a recent article in the January/February issue of General Dentistry, clinical, peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to continuing education.

Research shows that children who develop cavities in their baby teeth are more likely to develop cavities as an adult. So how can a parent determine if their child is at risk for cavities? It all begins with that first trip to the dentist.

The first dental visit should include an exam to determine if the child is at low, moderate or high risk for cavities and will help decide which oral hygiene program best suits them. The dentist will be able to explain to the parent how often the child should be brushing as well as provide flossing instructions for the child.

"Brushing should begin when the first tooth erupts," says lead author of the report Jane Soxman, DDS. "Parents should be in charge of a child's brushing until the child is able to tie his or her shoes or write their own name clearly-usually five or six years of age."

Children whose parents are prone to cavities and tooth decay need to be extra careful.

"We know there's a genetic predisposition to tooth decay," says Dr. Soxman.

Children at high risk for cavities should be discouraged from eating starchy snacks such as crackers and chips. In fact, one good way to determine if a snack is good for a child is to check their teeth 20 minutes after consumption. If the teeth are still filled with food, the snack should be discontinued.


"Regardless of what food is eaten, regular efforts have to be made to clean the teeth before decay can begin," says AGD President Tom Howley, DDS, MAGD. "This means things like brushing, flossing, rinsing after snacks and using non-sugary beverages in bottles or sippy cups."

"Even if your child is not at risk, it is always good to routine dental check-ups and to limit your child's intake of sugary foods," says Dr. Soxman.

"Essentially all children are at risk to some extent or another," says Dr. Howley. "So the same basic principles apply-control of exposure of cavity-inducing food and through cleaning of the teeth. Even if decay is a low risk for an individual child they can still develop gingivitis or other problems if home care is inadequate."

Canadians in the dark about gingivitis transmissibility
Saturday, April 23, 2005 | gp

TORONTO, April 21 /CNW/ - With National Oral Health Month underway,
here's something to make you think twice before puckering up: Studies show
there may be a one-in-three chance of transmitting gingivitis-causing bacteria
--one source of gum disease -- through saliva(1). Considering three out of
four Canadians have gingivitis, the earliest and most easily treatable form of
gum disease, odds are that you or your partner do too. Yet, if you're like
nearly 80 per cent of us, you've been unaware up until now. The solution?
Dental experts say the best defence is a good offence this National Oral
Health Month, by reducing your risk.

Research Highlights Risk
Scientists and dentists have long suspected that gum disease-causing
bacteria could be transmitted from person-to-person. In fact, a recent
survey of Canadian dentists showcases that at least three quarters believe
periodontal bacteria can be transmitted. And they're right: In a meta-analysis
of research on the subject published in Periodontology 2000(2), several
studies showed transmission rates of anywhere from 30 to 75 per cent. In one
such study of married couples, it was demonstrated that spouses of patients
with periodontal disease were 20 to 30 per cent more likely to have poor
oral health themselves than spouses of patients in optimal oral health(3).
Other research, printed in Oral Microbiology and Immunology, suggests the
probability of spouses sharing two particular periodontal bacteria strains
(A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis) was found to be 36 per cent and
20 per cent respectively, while the probability that this similarity occurred
by chance was a mere five per cent, suggesting transmission(4). "Although it
is difficult to absolutely confirm transmissibility in a given case, research
to date suggests that some cases of periodontitis -- or gum disease -- may
occur by transmission," says Dr. Michael Glogauer, periodontist, Assistant
Professor at the University of Toronto, and one of Canada's foremost
researchers on the role of oral health as it relates to overall health.
"This problem goes beyond the research results, as I often see both
husbands and wives in my clinic who share similar disease patterns."

Kiss Gingivitis Goodbye
Fifty-seven per cent of Canadians said they'd be concerned about getting
gingivitis from another person, and nearly 40 per cent admit they would limit
kissing if they knew their partner had gingivitis. On the flipside, a
thoughtful 65 per cent of Canadians said they'd be concerned about
transmitting gingivitis to their partner, whereas 22 per cent claim they
wouldn't care at all.
"While we're just at the tip of the iceberg in this area of research, we
do know two things for certain," says Dr. Glogauer. "First, it appears that
periodontal bacteria may be transmitted between partners. Second, even though
bacterial transmission may occur, it doesn't necessarily mean you're
automatically going to develop gum disease." To better understand what goes on
in our mouths, Dr. Glogauer explains, "White blood cells are normally present
in our mouths, keeping the oral environment in healthy balance. But this
equilibrium can be disturbed when someone with poor oral hygiene comes in
contact with other, more dangerous periodontal bacteria. In response, our
white blood cells rush to the source of the problem and compensate for the
imbalance. This causes the redness, inflammation and bleeding often associated
with gingivitis." Bottom line: The key to oral health lies in maintaining that
healthy equilibrium, and killing the germs that cause gingivitis and plaque is
one way to help.
"Bacteria can be present indefinitely without evolving into gingivitis or
full-blown periodontitis, as long as your mouth's defences aren't down," says
Dr. Glogauer. "That's why it's important to maintain the best possible oral
hygiene so these types of bacteria are not welcome guests in the mouth," he
says. "Stopping gingivitis in its tracks is a good first step -- since if left
untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease. And evidence is
mounting that your oral health affects your overall health -- with links to
heart disease, low birth weight, pre-term babies, and diabetes."

Flirting With Gingivitis?
Are you doing all you can to reduce your susceptibility to periodontal
bacteria? Probably not. While 92 per cent of Canadians rate their gingivitis-
prevention routines as good or better, three quarters of us admit to not
flossing regularly(5) -- so we're not removing plaque from more than one third
of the mouth's surfaces that can't be reached by brushing alone. This could
explain why so many of us have gingivitis. Transmissibility might just be the
wakeup call we need, as an overwhelming 86 per cent of Canadians would be
willing to take additional steps to prevent the spread of gingivitis causing
bacteria if they were informed it could be passed on.
So where to start? Before you restrict yourself to air-kissing, there is
something you can do to prevent and treat gingivitis. A three-step routine is
recommended, consisting of brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic
mouth rinse like Listerine, which has been clinically proven to reduce
gingivitis by up to 34 per cent over your usual dental routine without
Listerine.
Listerine has been a leader in Canadian oral care for more than a
century. It is the only non-prescription mouthrinse that is recognized by the
Canadian Dental Association to reduce and prevent the progress of gingivitis
when used in a proper oral hygiene program. Cool Citrus Listerine Antiseptic
Mouthwash was recently added to the line up of Cool Mint, Fresh Burst and
Original flavours. For added protection against tartar build-up, use Listerine
Tartar Control, and to boost resistance to cavities, use Fluoride Listerine.
Listerine Mouthwash is available at retail outlets across Canada.
Listerine Mouthwash is owned and marketed by Pfizer. Pfizer Inc.
discovers, develops, manufactures and markets leading prescription medicines,
for humans and animals, and many of the world's best-known consumer products.
In Canada, Pfizer employs approximately 2,300 people. Canadian headquarters
of Pfizer Consumer Healthcare is in Toronto, Ontario.
The survey of Canadians was commissioned by Listerine Mouthwash
to determine their knowledge of gingivitis transmissibility. This
independent survey was conducted by Decima Research in winter of 2004-05.
This national sample of 2,000 Canadian adults 18 years or older is accurate
within +/- 2.2 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. Listerine Mouthwash
also commissioned a poll of 50 Canadian dentists to gauge their knowledge
and opinions surrounding gingivitis transmissibility. This independent
survey was conducted by Contemporary Research Centre.

Saliva helps in the detection of cancer
Saturday, April 23, 2005 | gp

Researchers from the UCLA School of Dentistry and the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center say saliva helps in predicting oral squamous cell cancer.

Researchers collected saliva and blood from 32 patients with primary oral squamous cell carcinoma and 40 breast cancer patients.


They matched each with saliva and blood from otherwise healthy people.

Researchers used new techniques to recover as much mRNA as possible, which allows them to set up a comparison test between cancer patients and normal subjects based on analyzing their genetic "profiles" from a pool of up to 10,000 types of mRNA.



Researchers conclude, "These results indicate that biomarkers found in saliva, called salivary transcriptomes, can be exploited for robust, high-throughput and reproducible tools for early disease detection. This is a proof-of-principal study, but our results will need to be validated in a larger sample size in a blinded manner."

Dental implants...The Real Story
Saturday, April 23, 2005 | gp

Teeth impart beauty to the face and missing teeth not only cause problems with appearance, but also make eating and speaking more difficult.

Teeth at the back must also be replaced, otherwise it can lead to an altered bite. If a number of these teeth are missing and not replaced, it may lead to collapse of facial features. Teeth work together as a finely tuned machine with the upper and lower teeth meshing with each other in a specific manner. Losing even one tooth could be the start of serious problems, if it is not replaced promptly.

Tooth loss has many causes, the most common being decay, gum disease and injury. Teeth can be replaced either with the help of implants, bridges or dentures. The method selected will depend on the condition of the adjacent teeth and gums, and the number of teeth missing and the cost.


Implants

Implant help replace missing teeth. An implant is a device made of titanium, which is surgically inserted into bone. The area is then allowed to heal for a period of about four to six months, after which the artificial teeth can be constructed on them. Implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth.

Implant therapy has been tremendously beneficial in patients who have been unable to wear or do not want to wear removable partial dentures or complete dentures.

Multiple implants can be placed in the upper and lower jaws and a fixed prosthesis can be given. Implants can also be used to stabilise the dentures so they are more comfortable to wear. This is very effective for people who have been wearing dentures for an extensive period of time and whose jaws have shrunk to the point where the dentures are very loose. This is especially true of the lower dentures.

Bridges

Bridges are tooth replacements attached to adjoining natural teeth. They are best for people with a few missing teeth, either the front or the back teeth. To replace missing teeth with a bridge, the adjoining teeth must be healthy and have good root and gum support. The two common types of bridges are the fixed bridges and the bonded (Maryland) bridges.

Depending on the aesthetic requirements of the patient the bridge can be made of all porcelain, porcelain fused to metal or metal only. In a conventional bridge one or more artificial teeth are set between crowns placed over adjoining natural teeth. This procedure normally takes two to three visits.

A bonded bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth between metal wings. The anchor teeth are reshaped slightly, and the wings are bonded to them using resin cement.

However, there is a greater chance for these to de-bond as compared to the conventional bridges.

Dentures

A denture is a set of removable artificial teeth that rest directly on the gums and may be attached to adjoining teeth using clasps. Dentures are usually made with gum coloured acrylic resin to which artificial teeth are attached.

Dentures are usually of four types: removable partial dentures, overdentures, immediate dentures and conventional complete dentures

Removable partial dentures are usually for those who have a number of teeth missing and where fixed partial dentures are not recommended.

They usually consist of replacement teeth attached to gum coloured plastic bases, which are connected by a metal framework. Removable partial dentures are attached to natural teeth with the help of metal clasps or devices called precision attachments, which are more aesthetic than clasps. A new material called Valplast has recently been introduced which is a biocompatible nylon-based material.

Its main advantage is that it is flexible, gum coloured and the clasps are also made of the same material, making it much more pleasing.

In our country, the plastic removable dentures are used widely, because they are cheaper than the dentures with metal frameworks. However, in the long run these dentures can cause harm to the adjacent teeth.

Overdenture

An overdenture is a removable denture designed for patients who have a number of teeth missing, but have a few good teeth remaining. The best scenario being when there are canines and one posterior tooth remaining in each side of the mouth. These teeth are root canalled and the canals are filled with an inert material.

The teeth are reduced in height and the dentures are constructed over these teeth. In some cases attachments may be placed over the teeth to increase the retention of the dentures.

The denture is usually made with gum coloured acrylic resin, with the artificial teeth attached to it. Although this form of treatment is more expensive than conventional dentures, it has a number of advantages like better tactile sensation and better chewing efficiency.

In a few cases, patients may have to undergo extraction of all their remaining teeth like in advanced gum disease. Here, it is advisable to get an immediate denture done. The main advantage is that the patient is never without teeth.

The procedure involves extracting the remaining back teeth and waiting for a period of about ten days for healing to occur.

The patient is then called in to make the necessary records. The lab then fabricates a complete denture that duplicates the appearance of the natural teeth or altered if the patient so desires.

Complete dentures

Complete dentures are made of gum coloured acrylic with artificial teeth attached to them and they rest completely on the gums. Complete dentures are able to maintain or recreate lip and cheek support and restore the patient’s smile.

Missing teeth need to be replaced within a period of three to six months as it restores appearance, improves speech and chewing ability. The dentist in consultation with the patient must select the method of replacement.

Electronic Brushes No Better Than Manual Brushes
Friday, April 22, 2005 | gp

Most electric toothbrushes are no better at cleaning your teeth than the old-fashioned manual ones.

That's the conclusion of researchers at the University of Sheffield in England, after reviewing 42 trials of all sorts of toothbrushes.

In fact, the only type of electric toothbrush more effective than a traditional brush is one with a so-called "rotating-oscillating" head. (It has a circular head that moves a quarter turn in one direction and then back a quarter turn.)

"These results show that many people may be wasting money on toothbrushes they believe will clean their teeth better, when actually a much cheaper traditional brush would do the job just as well," Prof. Peter Robinson said in a statement released with the study.


His team looked at trials that assessed how well various brushes removed dental plaque -- a gooey mix of bacteria and detritus -- which can cause gingivitis, an early form of gum disease that undermines teeth.

There are a wide range of electric brushes, including those that move bristles with ultrasound, and those that move side to side, or round and round -- and those of the rotating-oscillating variety.

Compared with manual toothbrushes, the rotating-oscillating gadgets removed 11-per-cent more plaque and cut gingivitis by a further 17 per cent after three months of use, according to the study in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

Prof. Robinson said the other electric gadgets don't do any harm. "However, if [people] bought an electric toothbrush to get their teeth as clean as possible, then it is worth investing in a brush with a rotating-oscillating head."

Other experts also recommend regular flossing, rinsing with an antibacterial mouth wash and periodic trips to a dentist's office for a professional cleaning.

Dentist sued by patient with Ludwig's angina
Friday, April 22, 2005 | gp

A woman treated by a dentist at Southern Illinois University (SIU) School of Dental Medicine in Alton filed suit April 20 in Madison County Circuit Court alleging she developed Ludwig’s angina which threatened her life after her treatment.

Shanna Lawson is seeking at least $50,000 from the dentist claiming he failed to render acceptable treatment.

Ludwig's angina is a bacterial infection of the floor of the mouth, under the tongue. It often occurs following an infection of the roots of the teeth or after mouth injury. Swelling of the tissues occurs rapidly and may block the airway or prevent swallowing of saliva.

Lawson claims that on Dec. 4, 2003, she had a molar extracted by the dentist but he failed to document and maintain a complete detailed dental chart of her treatment, failed to write post-operative instructions and failed to properly treat an infection with antibiotics.

According to the complaint, Lawson claims physical and mental pain, medical and hospital expenses and the inability to attend to her ordinary affairs of life.

Represented by David Hesi of Wiseman, Hesi, Mormino, Hubbs, Velloff, Edmonds, and Snider of Alton, Lawson is seeking a judgment for medical and drug expenses and general damages according to the proof and other relief the court deems just and proper, all in excess of $50,000.

The regular dental check-up - why every six months?
Thursday, April 21, 2005 | gp

Although dentists in many developed countries recommend check-ups at six-month intervals, there are no high quality data to support this recommendation.

Dental health is an important part of a person’s overall health, and catching problems early can make treatment much easier to perform. The oral health of the population in many countries has improved dramatically over the last three decades. This fact, coupled with the cost of check-ups and the scarcity of dentists, means that it is appropriate to ask how often a person should be seen.

Reviewing the best available data led the Cochrane Authors to conclude that there is not enough evidence to draw any conclusions regarding the potential effects, good or bad, of altering the recall interval between dental check-ups.

“There is insufficient evidence to support or refute the practice of encouraging patients to attend for dental check-ups at six-monthly intervals,” says the review’s lead author Dr Paul Beirne, of the University Dental School and Hospital, Wilton, Cork, Ireland.

The authors say that their work highlights the need for further research into this issue.

MicroDental Laboratories Announces the Production of the One-Millionth MAC Veneer
Tuesday, April 19, 2005 | gp

DUBLIN, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 19, 2005--MicroDental Laboratories, the world's leading cosmetic dentistry laboratory and makers of industry-leading MAC Veneers(TM), today announced its Micro Advanced Cosmetics (MAC) Division reached the one-millionth veneer milestone, punctuating the lab's clear leadership in pressed ceramic veneers. MAC Veneers are widely considered the best-of-the-best for their unique combination of beauty and function. They are recommended three times more often than any other pressed ceramic brand by the world's leading cosmetic dentists.


Fabricated from state-of-the-art pressed ceramic porcelain, MAC Veneers are more than two to three times stronger, more than twice as long-lasting, and far more resistant to staining and color changes compared to other brands still made from the older, thinner feldspathic materials that were first used to make veneers. In addition to superior materials, MAC Veneers are carefully crafted by highly skilled ceramists with extensive hands-on experience creating the most natural-looking, beautiful veneers possible.

"At the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI), we train the world's top dentists in industry leading cosmetic procedures and demand the highest quality from a lab," said Bill Dickerson, DDS, Founder, Director and CEO of LVI. "MicroDental's MAC lab works hand-in-hand with us to develop new materials and procedures, and is committed to helping LVI further the body of knowledge in cosmetic dentistry. We congratulate MicroDental on their millionth MAC Veneer milestone, which is a true reflection of their expertise."

The Micro Advanced Cosmetics (MAC) Division of MicroDental Laboratories pioneered the high-end team concept -- combining the commitment to quality, technician skill, and cutting-edge resources of an industry leader with the responsiveness and individualized attention of a smaller lab. MAC Team leaders and technicians communicate regularly with their dentists throughout each case, from the initial impressions, wax-ups, and temporaries through final placement of the finished veneers to create today's healthiest, most natural-looking and most beautiful smiles.

"Designing the perfect smile is a partnership between the dentist and the lab. Only by working closely together and providing two-way feedback can we create the ideal smile tailored to each individual patient," said Larry Rosenthal, DDS, celebrity cosmetic dentist and Director of Aesthetic Advantage, the advanced cosmetic dentistry program at the New York University College of Dentistry at the Rosenthal Institute. "In addition to being top technicians, MAC Team members are artistic collaborators who work closely with their dentists to achieve excellent results on each case. MicroDental is elevating the potential of dentistry through its commitment to advancements in the veneer process, as well as its relationships with top dentists and educational institutions. We congratulate them on their millionth MAC Veneer."

"MicroDental Laboratories is committed to creating the world's most beautiful smiles -- through creating the best cosmetic dental products, providing our dentist partners with full-practice support and advancing the profession of cosmetic dentistry as a whole," said Fred Walke, CEO of MicroDental Laboratories. "Reaching the millionth mark is a satisfying validation of the MAC Team's skills, and proves that when it comes to smiles, more discerning dentists and patients insist on MAC Veneers for the best of the best."

MicroDental Laboratories closed 2004 with record-breaking revenues, representing double-digit growth and the highest revenue in the company's 40-year history. The laboratory's fastest-growing division, Micro Advanced Cosmetics, which produces MAC Veneers(TM), recorded a revenue increase of more than 30% in 2004, its 8th consecutive year of steady growth.

About Micro Advanced Cosmetics (MAC), a division of MicroDental

To focus exclusively on advanced dental aesthetics, MicroDental Laboratories created the Micro Advanced Cosmetics (MAC) division in 1997. MAC team members are the most highly trained technicians in the industry, using the most advanced pressed ceramic materials and the most sophisticated CAD/CAM and color matching technology available today to create MAC Veneers. MAC brand veneers are the highest quality and the most specified veneer brand in the industry. For more information, please visit www.macveneers.com.

If You Grind Your Teeth
Tuesday, April 19, 2005 | gp

As many as 40 million Americans suffer from bruxism, better known as teeth grinding. Five percent to 10 percent of them grind their teeth so severely that they fracture dental fillings or cause other types of tooth damage.

Severe bruxism has also been blamed for some cases of temporomandibular joint dysfunction, mysterious morning headaches, and unexplained facial pain.

Bruxism can have a variety of psychological and physical causes. These include stress, the body's reaction to poor tooth alignment, as a complication of severe brain injury, or as an uncommon side effect of some antidepressant medications.

If you grind your teeth due to stress, the Columbia School of Dental and Oral Surgery says you may be able to prevent the problem by seeking professional counseling or by using strategies to help you learn to relax.

Also, try cutting down on your daily intake of alcohol and caffeine. If you need extra help to prevent tooth damage, your doctor or dentist may recommend adental device called a bite plate or bite splint, designed to prevent the choppers from rubbing together.

Israeli dental robot makes implants less painful, less expensive
Tuesday, April 19, 2005 | gp

A new Israeli start-up wants to put a robot in your mouth.

The company, Rehovot-based Tactile Technologies, recently obtained US Food and Drug Administration marketing approval for its novel dental implant location software. The software is a three-dimensional surgery planning solution, which will soon be marketed in the U.S.

The company's flagship product, which is in the final stages of development, is an Implant Location System (ILS) that uses a disposable micro-robot for carrying out dental implant procedures. The company promises that when this product hits the market, the process of getting dental implants will be less painful and less expensive.

A series of animal trials has been successfully completed on the system and clinical trials on humans are slated for July 2005. The company has already signed cooperation agreements with a number of leading medical research centers, including Vienna General Hospital, Boston University Hospital, and New York University.

The bone-sensing technology will enable precision three-dimensional measurement of bone tissue covered by soft tissue, without the need for invasive surgical procedures. The Implant Location System applies tactile sensing technology to offer intra-oral image-guided navigation specifically for dentists. Its computer-guided sensing, navigation and guiding suite for placement of dental implants is designed both for the general practitioner and the expert.

Tactile Technologies' aim is to help the firms that manufacture implants to find a solution for placing them that minimizes the risks and simplifies the procedure They are doing so using tactile sensing technology, three-dimensional radiological visualization and miniaturized robotic control which is changing the dental landscape.

Tactile Technologies was founded in 2003 by a group of physicists, among them Dr. Zvika Slovin, 39, who serves as CEO of the company.

"We are a group of four entrepreneurs - this is our third start-up," Slovin told ISRAEL21c. "This time, we wanted to search for a really unique startup that would not only make money but would make a difference - and that was why we chose to look into the medical market. All of our previous ventures were strictly technical."

Slovin said that when their group looked at the dental implant market, they found a highly lucrative niche "in which not a lot had changed in the past 20-30 years, and high technology has not yet made an impact."

The problem that they set out to solve was the level of technical sophistication that is necessary for dentists to perform implants, which are increasingly popular in demand.

"Every implant is a titanium screw and they are afraid of perforating a bone or damaging a nerve," Slovin said

Inserting dental implants in their proper location in the jaw is a surgical procedure that requires a great deal of experience, knowledge and expertise. Wrong placement of implants may cause implant failure and irreversible damage to anatomical structures. Performing implants is not something that is taught in standard dental curriculum.

According to Slovin, current devices still suffer from inaccuracy, high procedural complexity and high prices. 90 percent of all implant procedures are performed by only 4% of dentists, he added.

"To change this you have or provide the means for a safer and easier process," Slovin said.

The Tactile Technologies concept is a system in which most of the elements are disposable, except for a drill-guided sheath. The sheaths guide the drilling process by constraining drill movement to exactly the right position, angles and depth.

Their technology is the very first to offer accurate image-guided navigation relying on low-cost disposable elements, without involving any special sophisticated or expensive equipment.

"We're adopting the Hewlett-Packard printing strategy, where the basic equipment is affordable, and the profit is made on the cartridges," Slovin said.

The company says that the miniaturized disposable Implant Location System will be accurate, simple to use and flexible, and a safe and easy tool for planning and carrying out dental implant placement procedures.
The advantage to the patient is clear: both affordability and lack of pain - imaging of the bone surface is acquired without the need for traumatic gum removal and the protective sheath offers a high degree of fail-safeness by constraining drill movement.

Tactile Technologies' tactile sensing technology provides a mechanical image of the bone contour without removing any gum tissue. Bone contour measurements are compared to pre-operative radiological information and used for determining the exact location of the system on the patient's anatomy.

The sensor uses a matrix of micro-needles that are inserted through the gum tissue until contact with bone is attained. The needles used are ultra-thin with specially designed geometry to ensure negligible trauma. Their insertion is measured using miniature position encoders accompanied by digital signal processing electronics, achieving exceptionally high measurement accuracies. Once the optimal implant location is determined it needs to be carried out in a precise and safe manner.

The use of the Implant Location System enables implant placement without the need for painful flap surgery, which is often accompanied by potential marginal bone loss and soft tissue recession, which reduces success rate and may result in bad aesthetic results.

Tactile Technologies hopes to become a world leader in the dental image-guided surgery market by providing safe accurate and easy-to-use devices accessible to the general practitioner. It first drew attention in the world of dentistry in 2002, when Dr. Gerald Niznick invested $4 million in the fledgling company.

Niznick is recognized by many as the father of modern American implant dentistry - he developed and patented his own dental implant design which became the most widely used dental implant system in the world. Niznick accomplished this by personally training over 10,000 dentists in lectures and live surgical demonstrations.

By the end of the 1990s, Niznick held 20 US patents, including the internal connection patent that has become the cornerstone of modern implants and is licensed to nine other dental implant companies. He sold his company in 2001 for more than $100 million.

Niznick's vote of confidence in Tactile Technologies was a key development for the company, which is located in the Rabin Science Park in Rehovot. The company has 14 employees, including engineers, surgeons, researchers and ergonomic designers.

Slovin notes that there are other Israeli companies involved in bringing robotic technology to dental implants - notably, a company called Robodent - and that some of their competitors are already closer to bringing their products to market.

"Their problem is that while their concept and equipment is good and they do provide a solution, it is extremely expensive, and their systems can cost $100,000 dollars each. A neighborhood dentist in Ohio can't afford that."

Dental College promotes dental tourism in region
Tuesday, April 19, 2005 | gp

Ludhiana, April 15: The Christian Dental College (CDC) has introduced various dental treatment procedures for tooth implants and promoting dental tourism in the region.

Addressing a press conference here on Thursday, principal Dr J.L. Joshi and other doctors of the college said a few additions had been made to the existing facilities and these included a state-of-the-art ceramic lab and dental implants. ‘‘Due to high quality of treatment, reasonable cost and caring attitude, the people who seek treatment include not only the local population but also NRIs,’’ the doctors said.



Dr Vinay Aggarwal, head of the Oral Maxofacial Department, said, ‘‘We have started attracting foreigners mainly because we do high quality work for a fraction of what it costs abroad. Seeing the good response, we are planning a separate implant section where all related specialists can work together.’’

HealOzone -No more painful dentistry...
Tuesday, April 19, 2005 | gp

- April marks Dental Health Month - have you had
your teeth checked? Are you hesitant because past experiences have left you
afraid of going to the dentist? The anxiety often associated with the
treatment of cavities can now be a distant memory with the news that SciCan
has introduced HealOzone(TM) in Canada. This innovative dental treatment uses
ozone to treat cavities, while reducing or eliminating the common anxieties
associated with the use of needles and drills. In as little as 20 seconds,
HealOzone gently and effectively eliminates 99 per cent of cavity-causing
bacteria(*), and promotes the preservation of healthy tooth structure in a
patient-friendly and minimally invasive format.
"It's no secret that most people do not like to go to the dentist because
of fears and anxieties related to needles and drills. My patients are blown
away when I now tell them that I can treat their cavities without any freezing
or drilling," said Dr. Stephen Gaines(xx), Canadian Dentist. "Using HealOzone
puts my patients at ease and, with the absence of the noise and vibration
caused by the drill, it keeps them relaxed, and gets them on their way in no
time at all."

USING OZONE IN DENTISTRY

HealOzone is a revolutionary new dental therapy that uses ozone to gently
treat cavities. Before its use in dentistry, ozone, "nature's purifier", has
been widely used in medicine, and in water treatment plants. The use of ozone
in dentistry is very similar in that the ozone functions to eliminate harmful
micro-organisms and toxins. This provides a bacteria-free environment for the
re-strengthening of the patient's own natural tooth structure.
With HealOzone, ozone is generated within the device, travels through the
tubing and into a sterilized handpiece which is applied to the treatment site.
To ensure safety, a flexible suction cup on the handpiece forms a controlled
seal around the tooth. HealOzone is designed not to release the ozone until
the suction cup is fully sealed. From there, the ozone is applied to the
cavity-infected tooth. Lastly, the used and residual ozone is pumped out of
the system, back through the HealOzone unit, where it is safely broken down
into oxygen, and vented into the air.
"HealOzone provides my patients with an ultra-conservative and minimally
invasive option when it comes to treating cavities," said Dr. Gaines. "During
the time that I have been using HealOzone, the positive feedback has been
overwhelming. Not only am I confident that it is a safe and effective
treatment, I am thrilled knowing that the days of huge fillings and root
canals might soon be a thing of the past."

ABOUT HEALOZONE

HealOzone, which is used in more than 30 countries, received Health
Canada licensing in December 2003. HealOzone reduces the need for drilling and
needles required for the anesthetic. Teeth that have been treated using
HealOzone can be remineralized so that cavities in those areas are unlikely to
develop in the future. In more severe cases, HealOzone can be used in
conjunction with traditional treatments to preserve more of the tooth's
structure.
HealOzone can be applied in just 20 to 60 seconds, therefore patients
spend less time in the dental chair. The average "drill and fill" procedure
takes about 35 minutes, whereas the average HealOzone treatment is 20 minutes
from start to finish. Moreover, because freezing is seldom necessary, many
areas of the mouth can be treated in one appointment. This eliminates the need
for patients to have separate appointments for each area of the mouth.
Following a HealOzone treatment, it is recommended that patients take
home a patient homecare kit, which will continue to promote the natural
healing and remineralization process. This patient kit includes: toothpaste;
to be used twice a day; an oral rinse; and travel spray containing sodium
fluoride, to be rinsed or sprayed three times a day until complete.

ABOUT SCICAN

SciCan is one of Canada's major manufacturers and leading distributors of
products for dental professionals. Since the 1970s, the SciCan name has become
well-known for the proven innovation, high quality and dependability of its
equipment. Today, SciCan's product offering includes sterilizers, and
sterilization accessories, instrument washers, high-quality and state-of-the-
art dental systems and handpieces, as well as intra-oral cameras, imaging
software and a wide range of consumables and sundries.

Swedish dentist workshop in Goa
Tuesday, April 19, 2005 | gp

Margao, April 16: Dr Irene Dervelid, a senior Sweden based dentist remarked that it was “ excellent to see Goan dentist with modern practice in this competitive world.” Dr Dervelid and other 34 dentist from Sweden, a country considered to be the most advanced in innovative dentistry, said this during their official visit to the dental clinic after their seven-day annual educational workshop held for the first time in Marriot Hotel, Panaji.

As the workshop scheduled for India this year, the Swedish dentist selected Goa which was held for better bounding and upgradation of skills. These doctors during their visit also learnt about Goan culture.

It was their part of the workshop to visit the modern dental clinic and the doctors preferred to visit Dr Hubert Gomes Dental Clinic in Margao.

“ I was not aware of the workshop. But certainly surprised to receive a sudden call from Swedish dentist that they would prefer to visit my clinic. Since they were 34, I showed them my clinic in two groups” said Dr Hubert Gomes. They also congratulated Dr Gomes for having neatly maintained clinic with latest technology.

During their workshop, these dentists opined that the dentistry in Goa can be compared to that of the Sweden. To a query, these dentist from Sweden revealed that “the treatment is eight times more expensive in Europe and more foreigners are coming in India for treatment.”

Tourism in the new look...
Tuesday, April 19, 2005 | gp

If you fancy rafting across turbulent mountain rivers or skiing in the tundras, give your regular holiday options a miss. This is the age of specialised tourism, so besides choosing a destination, decide on what you want to do during your holidays. For the many who have found solace in spiritual tourism or have gone fishing in an angler's paradise or have just spent a week sampling the delights of gastronomic tourism, the options have never been better. Tourism today is about doing what you like, in the best environment possible.


Take the case of disaster tourism which involves going to a place that has experienced a disaster, not for relief work but just to see the site. After the tsunami, this kind of holiday has gained immense popularity. Agri-tourism is farm-based tourism which involves helping out the local agricultural economy. Hobby tourism is about going to places to meet others pursuing the same interests. Medical/dental tourism entails going to certain countries, either for advanced medical care or cheaper health care. Sports tourism which involves participating in a favourite sport like golf, scuba diving or basketball in another country, is also becoming popular.

Fitness expert Veena Bhatt, who enjoyed a 'back to basics' tourism experience recently says, "It was amazing to go to a place that used solar energy for cooking and where we grew the vegetables we ate. Right from the brown rice for lunch to the ridge gourd used in salads, everything was made on the farms."

Says Vinay Luthra, tourism expert, "There are so many different holidays to choose from now. Angling holidays have seen a steady growth. Ayurvedic tourism, where people go for massages and treatments, is gaining popularity as well. This year has seen a growth in eco-tourism too. People are also choosing bird-watching holidays, tiger spotting and trekking vacations."

Kerala gets maximum from Medico-Dento Tourism
Monday, April 18, 2005 | gp

India’s healthcare industry is expected to grow 2.7 times to touch Rs 2,70,000 crore by 2012. At present, it is worth Rs 1,00,000 crore.

However, policy mandarins will need to tweak regulations and ensure upgradation of infrastructure if they wish to carve out a substantial slice of the $3-trillion global healthcare industry by 2012.

A recent study conducted by the PHDCCI suggests leveraging the brand of Indian healthcare professionals across the globe.

“By doing this, the country would be in a position to grab sizable share of tourists interested in availing affordable and world-class medical facilities in the country,” says the study.

The chamber has called for strengthening public private partnership. To attract medical tourists, India will need to invest heavily in building a base of hospitals, preparing medical personnel and making these facilities more cost effective.

It is estimated that around $25-30 billion will be needed in the next 10 years to build the facilities required to establish India as a healthcare destination.

The sector has been growing at a rate of 15 per cent over the past five years.

According to the study, if medical tourism racks up 25 per cent of revenues of private up-market players by 2012, it will add Rs 10,000 crore to the revenues of major players.

About 10,000 to 12,000 foreign patients come to India for healthcare services each year.

“With a more focused approach to medical tourism, the country has to identify areas like orthopaedics for non-trauma medical disease like replacement or corrective surgery, urology and dental surgery. These are areas where the nation enjoys substantial cost and expertise advantage compared with western countries,” says the study.

To be formulated under the aegis of the ministry of health, the industry has sought a combined package which needs to be evolved by airlines, travel and tour operators, healthcare providers and insurance agencies.

The maximum number of patients coming to India for treatment and vacation visit Kerala. A majority of such tourists come from Gulf countries, Canada and the Maldives.

The Science and Art of Building Effective Dental Websites
Sunday, April 17, 2005 | gp

Dental websites are an essential tool for dental practices looking to increase new business and service existing patients.


A dental website is no longer a luxury, but a necessity, for dentists striving for the best practice possible. No dental practice, large or small, should ignore the many benefits that come from having its own, professional website. So what should practices consider when launching them online or considering an overhaul?


There are two types of dental websites to choose from: custom and prefabricated. Custom websites will prove to be far more effective, look more professional, and have longer-lasting value than the cheaper prefabricated versions. Every practice is different, so a design company should take the time to understand what the practice has to offer and convey that in their site.


Effective websites take into account common practice management tasks, and integrate them with online tools that not only create a marketing presence but also empower the practice in its daily operations. Specific tools include keeping in touch with patients through email newsletters, greeting cards, and special promotions.


The companies that specialize in dental websites compile newsletters that they prepare and deliver automatically on behalf of a dentist to his or her patient database. Such dental newsletters , which can be updated on a regular basis on the website and automatically emailed to patients, are extremely helpful in keeping in touch with patients that do not come in as often. Additionally, patients who subscribe may forward it to others, which could serve as a form of referrals.


Another useful feature of custom dental web sites is the ability to easily send out pre-scheduled email cards for birthdays, appointments, various holiday, etc. Such e-cards, with fun, professional designs, provide another great opportunity to keep in touch with patients and improve patient relations, while minimizing the cost of traditional cards and postage, not to mention save time.


Dental practices should also consider providing potential patients with an incentive to visit the office by having printable promotions or coupons on their website, where allowable by law. After all, the hardest part is getting the patient to come in for the first time.

Dental websites can also offer patients the ability to schedule appointments , access patient forms, and even verify insurance. This way, rather than request patients to come in fifteen to twenty minutes early, practices can post their forms online and request patient go online, print and complete them before coming in.

The opportunities for dental patient education are almost limitless; a dentist can provide informational resources on preventative care and exercises, explanatory diagrams and illustrations, and descriptions of the unique services of their practice.

A dental website can also assist the practice in selling dental products to anyone, anywhere, and any time — not just to the existing patient base of the practice. Dentists should not limit their opportunities — current studies show the public is looking for dental information, by the millions. Having an online presence now is crucial, not only in reaching new patients but also retaining existing ones. By not being online, a dentist misses out on 100 percent of the Internet-derived business he or she could see.


These days dentists are expected to have a presence on the Internet for potential patients. Instead of people running their fingers through the Yellow Pages, many now click with their mouse through their browsers to practices near them. The key to bringing in new patients who are searching online for dental providers and information lies in search engine placement. Who would want a website if no one can find it? Dentalmatrix.com excels at creating a search engine and marketing campaign aimed at excellent placement with search engines and directories, and uses both innovative and standard Search Engine Optimization techniques. More traffic means more patients, a better bottom line, and a dramatic return on investment.


Whether you have a current dental web site that isn"t high enough quality, or if you have no web site to speak of, the next decision is who should you turn to for the creation of your professional website? In terms of working with a freelancer versus an established company, as a general rule, it is usually best to work with a company that will provide the necessary customer service and support. Even if your "nephew Jimmy" or "nice kid down the street" can build you a professional website to begin with – and that"s a big "if" – will they be around when you need to update your website, or will they be off to college, or what have you?


It helps to find a company who can identify with the practice and even specializes in dental websites. A company or freelancer that does not specialize in the dental field will require significant amount of time from the dentist in developing the content and educational materials for the website.


There is probably no need to dump $10,000 into a dental website, but an investment of about $2,000 should be expected. A dentist can no longer maintain the mindset that "the computer is just for my kids." A practice without a professional website will be an immediate turnoff for more and more potential patients each and every day.

need for cooperation between dentistry faculties in the region
Sunday, April 17, 2005 | gp

It is essential to create a strong link between dentistry faculties in the Gulf countries and India to deliver better service to the people in the region, said Dr. B Turner.

Speaking at Ajman University of Science and Technology Network's Faculty of Dentistry, Dr Turner, of the Dentistry Institute of Science in Banglore, said, "There is an opportunity for the faculties of dentistry to achieve greatness, provided they link with other faculties in India and other countries.'

A highly developed infrastructure and the support of educational institutions will certainly help these institutions to achieve their goals.

Speaking about dental surgery, Dr Turner said," In today's world it has become essential to upgrade your performance indicators in order to leverage with other institutions in other countries. It is time for our institutions to seriously weigh the possibility of narrowing the gap and creating a scientific entity for the benefit of both parties," concluded Dr. Turner.

Imaging Sciences International Selects Flat-Panel Detectors for i-CAT(TM)3-D Dental Imaging System
Sunday, April 17, 2005 | gp

SALT LAKE CITY, April 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Varian Medical Systems, Inc. (NYSE: VAR - News) today announced that, under a two-year agreement, it will be supplying Imaging Sciences International, Inc., a global leader in the development and manufacturing of advanced dental and maxillofacial radiography products, with Varian's PaxScan® flat-panel digital image detectors for inclusion in Imaging Sciences' marquee product: the i-CAT(TM) Cone-Beam 3-D Dental Imaging System.

Imaging Sciences' i-CAT(TM) provides dentists and specialists around the world with in-office, 3-D, digital imaging capabilities that enable them to plan treatments, position implants, and perform other dental procedures using images acquired at a lower radiation dose than is possible with more expensive, higher-dose CT scanning techniques. This means higher quality patient care is delivered at a lower cost.

The compact design and rapid image-acquisition capabilities of the PaxScan detectors enable the i-CAT(TM) to capture 3-D images very quickly-typically within 20 seconds. The system provides dental professionals with immediate, 3-D digital reconstructions of a patient's mouth, face, and jaw areas, which can be viewed on a computer screen or printed out in full color.

"We originally developed our panels for cone-beam CT scanning applications in radiation oncology simulation and for image-guided radiotherapy," says Gary Okamoto, imaging products marketing manager for Varian Medical Systems. "Our flat-panel image detectors generate highly-detailed images and offer dentists excellent image quality, contrast, and spatial resolution at very low X-ray doses."

"Varian stands out in the realm of digital X-ray imaging," says Edward Marandola, vice president and general manager of Imaging Sciences. "They have the best technology and a great R&D group. As patients increasingly demand more sophisticated procedures, dentists can now use the i-CAT(TM) to more accurately plan treatments and predict surgical outcomes. There are approximately 30,000 dental offices in the U.S. alone that could use the i-CAT's advanced imaging technology to better serve their patients."

Varian's PaxScan image detectors are available in a variety of sizes and have been incorporated into cardiac, angiographic, dental, and neonatal medical imaging systems.

ABOUT IMAGING SCIENCES INTERNATIONAL

Serving the dental industry since 1992, Imaging Sciences International is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of the most advanced computer controlled dental and maxillofacial radiography products in the world. The company's marquee products provide dentists and other health care professionals with on-site, state-of-the-art imaging that extends quality of care and provides more predictable treatment outcomes. The Panorex CMT provides state-of-the-art panoramic imaging, as well as complex motion tomography for implant and TM Joint imaging; and the i-CAT(TM) cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers 3D imaging technology at a significantly lower cost and less radiation than a traditional CT. Imaging Sciences, a BVI Capital Partner Portfolio Company, is recognized internationally by leading dentists and radiologists as one of the most innovative companies in the world.

Supreme Court o rder to fill vaccant PG seats
Sunday, April 17, 2005 | gp

New Delhi,The Supreme Court Friday directed the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) to conduct a second round of counselling to fill the 239 vacant seats in post-graduate medical and dental courses under the 50 percent all India quota.

A bench of Justice Y.K. Sabharwal and Justice P.P. Naolekar passed the order on a petition by candidate Amit Gupta, who had alleged that some all India quota seats that could not be filled in the first counselling were being reverted to the states.

Accepting the suggestion given by Additional Solicitor General Mohan Parasaran and counsel Maninder Singh on behalf of the Medical Council of India, the bench asked the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) to come out with the admission list in three days.

AIIMS had conducted the all India medical entrance test.

BBC apology for 'lemons' dental tip
Sunday, April 17, 2005 | gp

The BBC has apologised for a programme which advised viewers to whiten their teeth by using lemons.

The tip was given on BBC One's Smart Spenders, a programme which gives "rules to riches" advice to families on saving money.

The programme got into hot water on March 30, when it tackled cheap alternatives to expensive tooth-whitening treatments.

Money expert Jane Furnival suggested that viewers could save their pennies by using lemon rind.

But the British Dental Health Foundation complained to the corporation, saying it was "shocked" by the advice and that rubbing teeth with lemons could erode the enamel.

The BBC has now apologised and recommended against the use of lemons.

In a statement broadcast after Wednesday's show, it said: "In the Smart Spender programme on March 30, one of the tips suggested by thrift expert Jane Furnival was to use lemon rind to whiten teeth.

"Since the broadcast it has been brought to our attention that using lemons to whiten teeth can be harmful.

"We recommend that viewers do not try this tip and that anyone who is unhappy with the colour of their teeth should speak to their dentist about possible treatment options."

British Dental Health Foundation chief executive Dr Nigel Carter said: "Lemons are extremely acidic and if consumed regularly can cause the tooth enamel to be worn away, causing pain and sensitivity."

Medical and Dental Tourism brings big bucks
Sunday, April 17, 2005 | gp

Medical tourism,is a term that has risen from the rapid growth of the industry where people from all around the world are traveling to Asian countries such as Thailand and India to obtain medical, dental, and surgical care while at the same time touring, vacationing, and fully experiencing the attractions of the countries that they are visiting. A combination of many factors has led to the recent increase in popularity of medical tourism — exorbitant costs of healthcare in industrialized nations, ease and affordability of international travel, favorable currency exchange rates in the global economy, rapidly improving technology and standards of care in many countries of the world, and most importantly proven safety of healthcare in select foreign nations have all led to the rise of medical tourism. More and more people are traveling abroad as an affordable, enjoyable, and safe alternative to having expensive medical, dental, and surgical procedures done in their home countries. Medical tourists are generally residents of the industrialized nations of the world and primarily come from the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Western Europe, Australia, and the Middle East. But more and more, people from many other countries of the world are seeking out places where they can combine vacationing and obtaining their medical care at an affordable cost.

"A study by the Confederation of Asian Industry and a private consultancy firm has estimated ‘medical tourism’ could be worth at least $ 2 billion by 2012," says Dr. Pierre Clero, Medical director of Clinique Internationale D’ Esthetique based in Paris, France. "Last year, some 1.5 million foreigners visited India alone for treatment, with the number rising by 15 percent every year. The increasing number is forging new definitions for medical tourism in a country, where medical tourists, until now, consisted only of those from third-world countries (in Africa and Southeast Asia) or those visiting the city for traditional Ayurvedic medicine." Dr. Clero is currently in Manila as a consultant for EuroClinics Inc., a Filipino-owned medical consortium that explores the potential growth of health tourism in the Philippines by offering a vast array of elective medical procedures to both foreign and local patients.

Adds Dr. Clero, "Currently medical tourists are traveling in large numbers to India, Thailand, the East Indies and South America — places where the quality of healthcare is equal to anywhere else in the world and yet the cost is significantly lower. These regions also offer numerous options for touring, sight-seeing, shopping, exploring, and yes, even lounging on sun drenched beaches."

"Although these places are currently the most popular choices for medical tourists, the industry is growing so rapidly that more and more countries and medical centers around the world are beginning to tailor services aimed specifically at medical tourists, and the expectation is that the options for where medical tourists can choose to travel will continue to increase at a rapid pace."

'Have You Had An Oral Cancer Exam?'
Tuesday, April 12, 2005 | gp

Delta Dental Encourages Early Detection During Oral Cancer Awareness Week
Monday April 11, 11:56 am ET


OKEMOS, Mich., April 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Each year, approximately 30,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer, making it the sixth most common cancer in the U.S. With one life lost every hour to oral cancer, this deadly disease claims as many lives as melanoma and more than cervical cancer. To help in the fight against oral cancer, Delta Dental encourages everyone to ask their dentist about oral cancer screenings during Oral Cancer Awareness Week, April 11-17.

Early detection saves lives.

Like many cancers, the key to survival is early detection. Early detection of oral cancer can dramatically increase the five-year survival rate from a dismal 57 percent to 81 percent. It can even be prevented if detected at the precancerous stages.

Dental professionals play a crucial role in early detection and are adopting a relatively new tool called a brush biopsy to catch oral cancer in its earliest stages or even as a precancerous lesion. Now, if dentists see unexplained red or white spots they feel need testing, they can perform the brush biopsy procedure right in the office. The brush biopsy is a quick and painless procedure that uses a small brush to collect cells from the spot, which are transferred to a slide and sent off to a high-tech laboratory for analysis. More than 160,000 brush biopsies have been performed by dentists in the U.S.; the test has already detected thousands of cases of precancers and early oral cancers. The affiliated Delta Dental Plans of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana are one of the first dental benefits providers in the U.S. to cover the brush biopsy.

"With the painless detection of early oral cancer now possible, many patients will soon realize that by visiting their dentists regularly, they will not only be protecting their teeth and gums, but may also save their lives," said Dr. Jed Jacobson, vice president of Professional Services and dental director at Delta Dental. "I encourage patients to ask their dentist about oral cancer screenings."

Brian Hill, oral cancer survivor and founder of the Oral Cancer Foundation, believes early detection is critical to survival. The core mission of the foundation is to increase public awareness and literacy related to the disease, and to press for more screenings to be performed by dental and medical professionals.

"Today in the United States, two-thirds of oral cancer is diagnosed in its late stages," says Hill. "Delta Dental's proactive involvement in the early detection process will help save lives and encourage people to visit their dentist regularly for oral cancer screenings."

Cost savings from early detection.

In addition to saving lives, early detection through the brush biopsy has the potential to significantly reduce medical treatment costs. Oral cancer is one of the most expensive forms to treat, with the average cost for an advanced case at $200,000.

According to the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey, nationally the cost of treating people with oral cancer is nearly $2 billion a year.

Oral cancer is also one of the most disfiguring of cancers, and often affects a person's ability to speak, eat, and breathe. The physical deformity that can occur as a result of aggressive treatment often prevents people from returning to work. According to studies from the University of Michigan Health System and Pennsylvania State University, people treated for head and neck cancer (including oral cancer) have the highest rate of work disability and unemployment after treatment.

If oral cancer is detected early, treatment tends to be more conservative, producing fewer complications and permanent disfigurements.

For more information about oral cancer, log on to http://www.oralcancerfoundation.org . For more information about Delta Dental's brush biopsy benefit, log on to http://www.deltadentalmi.com .

The affiliated Delta Dental Plan of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana, is the leading group dental benefits provider in the Midwest and paid out approximately $1.3 billion in 2004 for dental care for 5.1 million members. The company's headquarters is located in Okemos, Michigan with offices in Farmington Hills and Grand Rapids, Michigan; Columbus and Cleveland, Ohio; and, Indianapolis, Indiana.


Source: Delta Dental Plan of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana

ITI and Quintessence Announce Collaboration to Develop Dental `Implant Explorer'
Tuesday, April 12, 2005 | gp

Distribution Source : PrimeZone Media

Date : Tuesday - April 12, 2005



COLOGNE, Germany, April 12, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- The International Team for Implantology (ITI) and Quintessenz Verlags -GmbH (Quintessence) today announced a new collaboration to develop and market a multilingual, multimedia tool to educate patients and inform dental teams about implant and prosthetic procedures. Called the 'Implant Explorer', the new tool will be based on the popular award-winning 'Dental Explorer', which is already marketed by Quintessence and is broadly recognized as the standard work in dental chairside communication. Financial details of the collaboration were not disclosed.

Using photographic and video material in conjunction with a 3-D simulation program, the Implant Explorer will make it possible for patients to view their own dental situation on a chairside computer screen. It will also enable the dentist to develop and simulate an individualized treatment plan for each patient. This can be demonstrated and explained to the patient on screen and a treatment cost estimate generated at the push of a button. The Implant Explorer will be designed to run on a standard PC.





"Leading experts agree that teamwork and communication are essential to achieve predictable long-term esthetic results in implant patients. The team does not just comprise the dentist, the surgeon and the lab technician, it also includes the patient -- which underscores the need for effective educational aids. The Implant Explorer will undoubtedly fill an unmet need in this respect and will therefore be an important contribution towards improved treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction," said Professor Daniel Buser, Chairman of ITI Education Committee and Chairman of the Department of Oral Surgery at the School of Dental Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland.

"The ITI is widely accepted as a world-leading authority in implant dentistry with an unparalleled wealth of clinical and educational expertise. With Quintessence's leading position in multi-media chairside communication platforms, we are clearly partners of choice for this project, which will take chairside education to a new level," commented Alexander Ammann, CEO of Quintessenz Verlags-GmbH.

About the ITI

The International Team for Implantology (ITI) unites professionals around the world from all fields of implant dentistry and dental tissue regeneration. As an independent academic association, it actively promotes networking and exchange among its members. ITI Fellows and Members regularly share their knowledge and expertise from research and clinical practice at meetings, courses and congresses with the objective of constantly improving treatment methods and outcome, to the benefit of their patients.

The ITI is active in three principal areas: research, development and education. Over the past 25 years, the ITI has built a reputation for scientific rigor coupled with a concern for patients. The organization strongly supports the premise of well-documented treatment guidelines backed by extensive clinical testing and the compilation of long-term results. The core of the ITI is formed by more than 370 Fellows from more than 30 countries, who represent most of the world's leading universities in dentistry.

The ITI is the academic partner of Straumann, a global leader in implant dentistry and tissue regeneration.

Girl weds dog to ward off tiger
Friday, April 8, 2005 | gp

Bhubaneswar, April 7 (PTI): Amid a drone of drum beats, a tribal girl was married off to a dog on the outskirts of this temple city to prevent her from "being devoured by a tiger".

The girl developed some "abnormality" in the growth of her teeth and the tradition in the tribal-dominated slum cluster in Palasuni ordained that she undergo the ritual.

The marriage was "solemnised" with the consent of the girl's parents yesterday amid drum beats as the dog patiently sat through the ceremony beside the bride, perhaps trying to fathom what the commotion was all about.

A large number of people, mostly slum-dwellers, attended the ceremony.

As per the tribal superstition, children with dental growth abnormalities were prone to being attacked by tigers.

The 13th Emirates International Dental Conference
Friday, April 8, 2005 | gp

SHARJAH - The 13th Emirates International Dental Conference and Exhibition and the first Conference of the Sharjah Dental School, University of Sharjah (UoS), will be held at the auditorium of the faculties of Medicine and Heath Sciences at the UoS from April 12 to 14. Over 500 dental practitioners from the UAE and the Gulf region are expected to participate.


The conference will be held under the patronage of His Highness Dr. Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The Dental Society of the Emirates Medical Association (EMA) chose to hold their 13th conference this year in Sharjah and in cooperation with the newly established Sharjah Dental School, in order to give the budding new school as much support as possible.

Shaikh Mohammed bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Medical District and Assistant Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Health, told reporters on Wednesday that the conference aims to present the latest developments and technological breakthroughs in the field of dentistry with the goal being to update dental practitioners' knowledge and medical skills.

Attendance of the conference will confer on participants 21 continuous medical education (CME) credit hours. Dr. Aisha Sultan, Chairperson of the Dental Society, said that this year's conference theme will be "Recent Advances in Dentistry", adding that the comprehensive conference programme will cover aesthetics in dentistry, periodontics, endodontics, oral medicine, pedodontics, prosthodontics and restorative dentistry.

"The dentist is not a machine for pulling out teeth or putting in fillings, he is a human being dealing with human patients, this interaction must be looked at closer; in addition the relationship between dentistry and other medical specialities and how a dental procedure may impact on a patient suffering from other medical conditions, what can dentists do to avoid complications, all these issues will be covered at the conference," Dr. Aisha said.

Shaikh Mohammed bin Saqr said that five deans of dental schools in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait and five heads of dental associations in the Gulf region will be attending the conference.

"Our role is to encourage people to have good oral health habits, for which reason we initiated the Sharjah Oral Health Project, which has made great strides in the last nine years," Shaikh Mohammed bin Saqr said.

Dr. Aisha called for an expanssion of the oral health project to become a nation-wide awareness campaign to instill good dental hygiene in the new generation. She stressed that dental practitioners are required, as all medical practitioners, to earn a certain number of CME credit hours, for dentists its 50 credit hours every year, which have to be accumulated by the dental practitioner for his contract to be renewed on an annual basis.

Chances for Indian and other foreign Dentists in UK
Friday, April 8, 2005 | gp

A team of dentists has been drafted in from Poland as part of a drive to cut waiting lists in Coventry.

The first Polish dentist has already arrived in the city and is due to start seeing patients at the Willenhall Health Centre this month.

Another two dentists from Poland are to start practising here from June, joining 67 other Polish dentists drafted in to the UK.

The move is part of a national government initiative to reduce NHS waiting lists with qualified professionals from Poland, Portugal, Spain and India.

Just two weeks ago, an amazing 1,500 people queued for hours in Lincolnshire to register with a new Spanish dentist. There is currently a shortage of 1,850 dentists in England and only half the population is registered with a surgery.

The government has promised to recruit 1,000 extra dentists by October - the majority of which could be from overseas.

Rugby-based charity the British Dental Health Foundation welcomed the new dentists, but blamed the government’s lack of long-term vision for the shortage.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the independent body, said the current problems have been caused by a cull of dentists and training places when fluoride was introduced into toothpaste in the 1970s.

Dr Carter added: “As a result of fluoride, dental health improved so the government cut training places but of course people were then keeping their teeth for longer.

“They got the figures totally wrong back then and shut down dental schools.

“They are currently talking about a new dental school and more places on courses but it’s a five-year training programme. They should have taken the step before now.”

The first Polish dentist in the city will cover maternity leave and her language skills and dentistry expertise were assessed before a post was offered.

Coventry Primary Care Trust is aiming to ensure patients wait no more than three weeks to see one of 126 NHS dentists in Coventry.

Waiting times vary across the city - from around a week to up to four months in the Willenhall area.

Coventry Teaching PCT clinical director for dentistry Stephen Gomersall said: “This is a significant step forward. As the national recruitment initiative develops we anticipate further recruits into the city.”

1000 tons of mercury in 15 years!!!!!!!!
Thursday, April 7, 2005 | gp

Over 1,000 Tons of Dental Mercury to be Emitted in Next 10-15 Years; Report Grades New England States' Progress on Reducing Mercury Use, Release

4/4/2005 9:48:00 AM


To: National Desk, Health and Environment Reporters

Contact: Michael Bender of the Mercury Policy Project, 802-223-9000 or mercurypolicy@aol.com

MONTPELIER, Vt., April 4 /U.S. Newswire/ -- A coalition of groups today released a report in each of the state capitals of New England, grading the states on their efforts to reduce dental mercury pollution.

The report's number one recommendation is that dentists reduce their use of mercury fillings in consideration of environmental impacts. The report recommended state actions to require that:

-- dentists reduce mercury releases and notify patients about hazards of mercury fillings and alternatives;

-- dental insurance policies provide equal coverage for alternative fillings in state contracts; and,

-- prior to cremation, steps be taken to reduce the mercury emitted into the environment from fillings, since those releases are projected to double in 20 years.

"In the short term, if the use of mercury fillings were drastically reduced, within a decade or so dental mercury releases would be half what they are now," said Michael Bender, primary author of the report, and director of the Montpelier, Vt.-based Mercury Policy Project. "Within 15 years they would be minimal."

Of the mercury currently used in all products in the U.S., EPA estimates that mercury fillings (an "amalgam" of mercury and other metals) comprises 55 percent of the total -— or over 1,000 tons of mercury residing in the mouths of Americans today nationwide. If current trends continue, this mercury will be haphazardly released into the environment over the next 10 to 15 years as those fillings age and are replaced, according to the report's authors.

The groups releasing the report, including the National Wildlife Federation, Health Care Without Harm, Clean Water Action, Natural Resources Council of Maine and the Mercury Policy Project, gave higher grades to Maine ("B"), Connecticut ("B"), Massachusetts ("B") and Rhode Island ("C-") for promoting use of separators for mercury filling material (amalgam) by dentists to reduce pollution. Lower grades were given to New Hampshire ("D-plus") and Vermont ("D") primarily due to the small number of dentists with amalgam separators.

"For as little as $37 per month, a dentist could prevent over 95 percent of his or her office's mercury from going down the drain through employing best managementt practices and using amalgam separators," said Michael Bender, the report's primary author and director of the Mercury Policy Project. "Unfortunately, even though dentists are the number one contributor of mercury to wastewater and the third largest mercury user in the U.S., the American Dental Association still opposes installation of amalgam separators."

Bender notes that while the ADA supports some best management practices for dentists, ADA's Web site shows that it does so primarily as a tactical excuse for dentists not to install separators. Bender pointed out that even though ADA research clearly shows how well amalgam separators work, just last week ADA bragged that "...organized dentists have successfully staved off the mandatory installation of amalgam separators.”

Yet an increasing number of state and national dental associations support amalgam separators. A case in point is in Vermont, where the state dental society has now committed to supporting amalgam separator mandates over a voluntary approach.

"It seems clear from the science that amalgam separators do an excellent job at reducing amalgam in wastewater significantly. While no one likes to have mandates put on them, it seems clear to us that we will achieve a much higher level of compliance with mandated separators than a voluntary approach," said Daniel Ferraris, DMS, and past president of the Vermont Dental Society, in written testimony recently provided to a Vermont legislative committee.

Also, a national dental society hailed the report's findings. "Even though an increasing number of dentists no longer use mercury, they need to use amalgam separators because they are still removing mercury," said Richard J. Chanin, DMD, president, International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. "Yet the best way to reduce dental mercury pollution in the future is not to use mercury in the first place."

An estimated 14 percent of all mercury used in the U.S today is for dental fillings, according to the report. Current dental practices result in significant quantities of mercury being released down the drain, in the trash, in biomedical waste and from crematories, contributing to the build up of this toxic heavy metal in the environment.

The report, "Taking a Bite Out of Mercury Pollution: The 2005 Report Card on Dental Mercury Use and Release Reduction," also reveals troubling new findings that mercury emissions from cremation are expected to more than double over the next 20 years. This is due to growing number of amalgam retained in people when they die, and increases in cremations.

In 1998, the New England Governors committed to a "virtual elimination" goal for anthropogenic mercury releases. In 2003, the New England Governors' Mercury Task Force stated that it "will pursue a goal of having 50 percent of dentists in the region install dental amalgam separators by the end of 2005. Each jurisdiction will develop an aggressive strategy to ensure that this goal is a ggressively pursued."

Mercury levels in the environment have more than tripled over the past century or so due to human activities. EPA scientists estimate that one in six women of child-bearing age have unsafe mercury levels, translating to 630,000 born at risk each year in the U.S. Also, there is growing evidence that exposure to mercury can adversely affect the developing and adult cardiovascular system and may contribute to heart disease in adults.

For more information:

-- The full report on New England states is available at: http://www.mercurypolicy.org.

Laser may Replace the Dental Drill
Thursday, April 7, 2005 | gp

Laser may Replace the Dental Drill
By Amanda Jackson, Ivanhoe Health Correspondent

ORLANDO, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) -- A new laser wavelength is proving beneficial in removing tooth decay without causing damage to the surrounding tissue, say researchers presenting at the 25th annual meeting of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery in Orlando, Fla.

Lasers have been present in dentistry since the 1980s. However, the study authors say their use has been limited because the laser wavelength was not absorbed well by the teeth and caused dents in the surrounding tissue.

For the study, Harvey Wigdor, DDS, from Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago, and colleagues treated 10 patients between ages 12 and 77 with the 9.6 micron CO2 laser. The tissue on the inner part of the tooth was then examined under microscope, and no damage was seen. Study participants said the procedure was painless and did not cause any noise or vibration.

“What makes the 9.6 micron CO2 laser unique is that it is so well absorbed by both water and hydroxyapatite -- the calcium component of the teeth that makes enamel strong. The favorable absorption means that the laser energy isn’t converted to heat energy, thereby avoiding the thermal damage, dents or burning that is common with other types of lasers,” Dr. Wigdor says. He says another benefit is the laser’s ability to treat a broad range of age groups even though older teeth have smaller tissue and younger teeth have larger tissue.

One potential drawback of this laser compared to using a traditional dental drill to etch tooth enamel is that the bond strength of the treated tooth is less, making the bond of the filling to the tooth weaker. However, Dr. Wigdor notes that dentists can easily compensate for this by using other bonding materials.

Today, only 1 percent to 2 percent of dentists in the United States are using lasers, one of the main reasons being their high cost. Yet, Dr. Wigdor is optimistic lasers will be more common in dentist offices in the next 10 years. He explains they could be used as a diagnostic tool in finding decay in seemingly healthy teeth and as a non-invasive screening for cancer in the mouth.

“In the future, I expect lasers will be increasingly used for diagnostics and could eventually replace the dental drill, which I think would make many patients very happy,” Dr. Wigdor concludes.

This article was reported by Ivanhoe.com, who offers Medical Alerts by e-mail every day of the week. To subscribe, go to: http://www.ivanhoe.com/newsalert/.

SOURCE: Amanda Jackson at the 25th annual meeting of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery in Orlando, Fla., March 30-April 3, 2005

Dental CE Self Study CD-Rom
Thursday, April 7, 2005 | gp

Medical Destination Hawaii LLC now offers 5 different Dental CE Self Study CD-Rom “On-Demand” products available 24/7.

1. One-Visit Endodontic Treatment uses the highest quality medical illustration and imaging, and user friendly presentation to analyze the newest instrumentations for endodontic cleaning, shaping and obturation. This CD-ROM course is fully narrated with a detailed text highlighted by diagrams, animated sequences and interactive 3D models. One-Visit Endodontic Treatment presents a comprehensive discussion of rationale as well as step-by-step instruction for successful one-visit treatment. (8 CE credits)


2. Cleaning & Shaping is a CD-ROM course that uses informative diagrams, animated sequences, 3D models, text and narration to teach the basics of endodontic treatment. Why the proper access opening is critical to endodontic treatment success is discussed and the skills for visualizing the correct access for each tooth are taught. Cleaning & Shaping uses exciting and clear animations to explain all hand filing systems and techniques as no textbook or lecture can. This course includes the most comprehensive and visually detailed module on pulp anatomy available today. (6 CE credits)

3. Clinical Radiography is an interactive path to consistently perfect X-rays. The user moves easily from one section to another with instant feedback on questions answered. This CD-ROM course has click and drag exercises using the mouse that allow the user to practice the angulation of the X-ray cone. Infection control while exposing radiographs is stressed and the course also discusses reassuring the patient and relieving their anxiety during the process of radiography. (3 CE credits)

4. Endodontics and the Law, an online course developed by two leading endodontic clinicians and educators, Dr. Stephen Cohen and Dr. Stephen Schwartz, enables dentists to educate themselves about the liability issues they face in clinical practice. This course is presented in an easy-to-follow format that explains how legal entanglements occur, illustrates the common types of endodontic procedural errors, and offers scripts to use when discussing clinical errors with patients. Users are able to work at their own pace, make notes as they view the program, and bookmark their place if they want to stop the program and resume later from the same point. The course includes an email link to the course authors for questions and discussion. (4 CE credits)

5. Local Anesthesia: Intraosseous and Intraligamentary is an online course that clarifies the effectiveness and advantages of these two injections for both primary and adjunctive anesthesia and demonstrates how to achieve proficiency in administering them. The intraosseous and intraligamentary injections are designed to bring profound anesthesia safely and effectively, with virtually no risk of infection or adverse consequences, and without broad and lingering numbness to the lip, tongue and face. Three-dimensional images demystify these injections and provide a step-by-step guide to mastering the skills needed to use these precise injections on a regular basis. (4 CE credits)

Call 1-888-923-4004 for Dental CE Self Study CD on Demand. Combine these with your next Cruise or resort accommodation.

Contaminated instruments spread HIV
Thursday, April 7, 2005 | gp

Poor infection control at dental, maternity and paediatric facilities is possibly contributing to the spread of HIV/Aids, statistics showed on Tuesday.

The findings were in a study commissioned by the Nelson Mandela Foundation, conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council and released at an international Aids conference in Cape Town.

Over a quarter of instruments contaminated

Findings included that 24.6 percent of dental instruments ready to be used in patients' mouths, and 24 percent of instruments to be used for maternity and paediatric patients were contaminated with invisible blood, and 17.5 percent had visible blood on them.

"Results show that there is very poor cleaning of the environment in the labour and maternity areas and in dental facilities; the same is true for the baby and neo-natal areas," read a section of the report.

A lack of infection control may play a role in HIV transmission, the report said.

Few healthworkers knew milk should be pasteurised

One of the worst findings showed that only 1.65 percent of health professionals at hospitals and clinics surveyed knew that expressed mother's milk, pooled in many cases, had to be pasteurised before being fed to a baby.

"We went to brief the Department of Health, nationally, with regard to this particular study, so that they could be able to take up some of the recommendations. Indeed they were very sympathetic when we met with them... (and felt) something has to be done," said Dr Olive Shisana, co-principal investigator.

Groups warn of mercury from fillings in cremations
Thursday, April 7, 2005 | gp

As more people choose cremation over burial, dental fillings in corpses are becoming a significant source of toxic mercury pollution, environmental and public health groups warned Monday.
About 2.5 tons of mercury a year are emitted from crematoriums in the United States and that will double to 5 tons a year within 20 years, according to the report by the New England Zero Mercury Campaign, a coalition of six groups.

One reason for the increase in mercury emissions from crematoriums is that more people are dying today with some or all of their teeth in place, which means they also have more teeth with fillings, the report said. Dental amalgams are typically composed of about 50 percent mercury.

Cremations also are rising sharply. In 2003, there were nearly 700,000 cremations, or 28.6 percent of deaths, according to the Cremation Association of North America. By 2025, the association projects there will be 1.4 million cremations, or 43 percent of deaths.

The report cites EPA estimates dental amalgams account for 55 percent of all the mercury in products in use today, or 1,088 tons of mercury — most of it in people's mouths. Dental amalgams typically last about 10 years.

Although the use of dental amalgams containing mercury has declined in a decade in favor of more cosmetically appealing fillings, dentists still use 34 tons of mercury a year, according to EPA estimates cited in the report.

EPA officials have met with the American Dental Association to discuss ways to reduce mercury releases, EPA spokesman Dave Ryan said.

"EPA appreciates (the dental association's) interest and plans to continue the dialogue on different ways to reduce these mercury release in to the environment," Ryan said. "We will also continue to consider whether national guidance is necessary or helpful."

A spokesman for the cremation association disputed the report's emissions estimates. "There is certainly mercury being emitted, but it's such a minute amount compared to coal burning and other sources of mercury," said Jack Springer, executive director of the association.

FDA Approves New Dental Implant
Thursday, April 7, 2005 | gp

The Food and Drug Administration has just given the green light to a new fluoride-coated, dental implant. That's good news for patients who need a repair.

Sandy Strouse hasn't always been a big fan of the dentist.

Strouse says, "I had some bad experiences when I was younger and it stuck with me."

For the past few years, she's been willing to brave the chair to save her smile.

Dr. Scott Gradwell, a periodontist from Allentown, Pennsylvania says, "This is a big step for her. She has had a lot of dental disease because of fear."

Dr. Gradwell is replacing one of Sandy's front teeth with an OsseoSpeed dental implant.

The implant fuses quickly and Sandy's implant is strong enough to support a custom-made temporary tooth.

Dr. Gradwell says, "She doesn't have a gaping hole for three months and she doesn't have to wear something that's removable."

The OsseoSpeed implant was developed and studied extensively in Europe. Dr. Gradwell is one of the first in the U.S. to use it.

He says, "What the studies have shown, and they're five years in the making now, is that the fluoride stimulates the clot cells and the jaw bone cells to grow more jawbone cells. And the quicker the bone adheres to the dental implant, the more bone fuses to it and the stronger the bone fuses to it, therefore we have a longer prognosis, the implant will last longer."

Dr. Gradwell says this implant can also be used for patients who couldn't have implants in the past. That includes those with osteoporosis or other bone-compromising conditions.

Dental mercury pollution report
Thursday, April 7, 2005 | gp

April 6 -- A group of environmental advocacy organizations issued a report grading New England states for their efforts to prevent mercury from amalgam dental fillings from being released into the environment.
The group gave the highest grades, B´s, to Connecticut, Maine and Massachusetts, and a C-minus to Rhode Island. Those states have promoted the use of separators, which remove mercury from amalgam filling material, before it goes down the drain during dental procedures. New Hampshire and Vermont received the lowest grades, D-plus and D, respectively, because only a small number of dentists in those states use amalgam separators, according to the report.

"For as little as $37 per month, a dentist could prevent over 95 percent of his or her office´s mercury from going down the drain through employing best management practices and using amalgam separators," said Michael Bender, the report´s primary author and director of the Mercury Policy Project.

An estimated 14 percent of all mercury used in the United States today is for dental fillings, according to the report, which was issued by Bender´s group as well as Health Care Without Harm, the National Wildlife Federation, the Natural Resources Council of Maine, the Clean Water Fund New England and Clean Water Action New England.

The report is available online at www.mercurypolicy.org.

Man, Sons Arrested At Unlicensed Dental Clinic
Thursday, April 7, 2005 | gp

NORTH MIAMI BEACH, Fla. -- A man and his two adult sons were arrested on racketeering and grand theft charges in connection with their operation of a dental clinic in North Miami Beach.

Attorney General Charlie Crist today announced the arrests of Luis Vargas, 84, of Tamarac; Marcello Vargas, 54, of Coconut Creek; and Carlos Vargas, 59, of North Miami. They are accused of defrauding Florida's Medicaid program of more than $300,000 through the Goldberg Dental Center.

According to investigators, Luis Vargas has not been a licensed dentist in more than 20 years, but was using a forged Florida license to continue performing dental procedures. He is accused of performing dental procedures, including pulling teeth from children and adults covered under Medicaid. Investigators said Vargas also submitted false claims to the Medicaid program for dental services that were substandard or not rendered at the dental center.

Investigators said Marcello Vargas was the business owner and Carlos Vargas managed the office while their father performed the procedures.

None of the three men has a Florida dental license, but used the names of dentists previously employed at the facility when billing Medicaid for the services, according to investigators.

Luis Vargas was licensed as a dentist in the State of New York more than 20 years ago, and a search warrant revealed a forged Florida Department of Health dental license in his name.

Vargas and his sons face up to 30 years in prison and a $15,000 fine on the racketeering charge, as well as five years in prison and a $5,000 fine for each count of grand theft.

NHS acts to make medical and dental careers more accessible
Thursday, April 7, 2005 | gp

NHS Employers, the employers body for the health service, is launching an action plan to make careers in medicine and dentistry more accessible.

Fourteen organisations have signed up to the action plan called Equal Values, Equal Outcomes. These include the Department of Health, the General Medical Council and the General Dental Council.

Action points include improving access to medical and dental education, opening up career opportunities, and developing disciplinary procedures that are open and equitable.

"People from a wide and diverse range of backgrounds should be given a chance to train as a doctor or dentist," said NHS Employers head of equality and diversity Carol Baxter.

"This action plan is about building on work already begun to ensure they are given that chance and that all dentists and doctors are given equal career opportunities regardless of their religious beliefs, whether they are male or female, come from a minority ethnic background, are disabled or are gay, lesbian or bi-sexual."

Baxter said a high proportion of NHS doctors and dentists come from black and minority ethnic backgrounds, but many do not reach the highest positions and there are concerns that disciplinary mechanisms discriminate against them.

"Students whose parents come from lower socio-economic groups are less likely to go to medical or dental school. More than half of dental and medical students are now women but access to flexible working for both male and female doctors and dentists still needs to be greatly improved," said Baxter.

NHS Employers is setting up a small group of equality and diversity experts to objectively review progress against the action plan in a year's time.

Bidi smokers at increased risk of oral cancer
Monday, April 4, 2005 | gp

Do bidi smokers have an increased risk for oral cancer?

Saman Warnakulasuriya1

1Guy's, Kings and St Thomas' Dental Institute, Kings College London, London, UK


Rahman M, Sakamoto J, Fukui T. Bidi smoking and oral cancer: a meta-analysis. Int J Cancer 2003 10; 106:600-604



Address for correspondence: M Rahman, Department of Epidemiological and Clinical Research Information Management, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Yoshidakonoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan. E-mail: rahman@pbh.med.kyoto-u.ac.jp


Abstract

Data sources Source articles were searched for using Medline, the Cochrane Library and within the references lists of identified articles.

Study selection Articles were selected that included data enabling construction of 2 ´ 2 tables to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Data extraction and synthesis For each study, two-way contingency tables were constructed, based on exposure frequency distributions, for cases and controls. Unadjusted OR and 95% CI were recalculated based on the reported data using standard procedures. Separate contingency tables were made for bidi smoking, cigarette smoking and both types of smoking if the data were available in the same article. The overall OR combined across all studies, and its 95% CI, was calculated using a random-effects model for bidi and cigarette smoking. Tests for publication bias and heterogeneity were conducted. Confounding factors, for example, betel quid chewing or alcohol use, were not included in the meta-regression model.

Results An increased risk of oral cancer was found for bidi smokers compared with people who had never smoked (OR, 3.1; 95% CI, 2.0-5.0) whereas no significant pattern of risk was found for cigarette smokers (OR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.7-1.8). There was substantial heterogeneity in the pooled OR estimate.

Conclusions The results clearly indicate that bidi smokers are at increased risk of oral cancer. It is important that this information be incorporated into smoking prevention and cessation efforts, particularly in the urban poor and rural mass in south Asian countries where bidi smoking is widespread.

Evidence-Based Dentistry (2005) 6, 19. doi:10.1038/sj.ebd.6400297

What treatments are effective for treating oral leukoplakia
Monday, April 4, 2005 | gp

Although leukoplakia responds to some treatments relapses and adverse effects are common

Shailesh Lele1
Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University Dental College and Hospital, Pune, India

Lodi G, Sardella A, Bez C, Demarosi F, Carrassi A. Interventions for treating oral leukoplakia (Cochrane Review). In the Cochrane Library, Issue 3, 2004. Chichester, UK: John Wiley & Sons.

Address for correspondence: Emma Tavender, Review Group Co-ordinator, Cochrane Oral Health Group, University Dental Hospital of Manchester, Higher Cambridge Street, Manchester M15 6FH, UK. E-mail: emma.tavender@man.ac.uk


Abstract

Data sources The Cochrane Oral Health Group's Trials Register, Cochrane Central Trials Register, Medline and Embase were searched, as well as the following journals: Cancer, Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology, European Journal of Oral Sciences, Journal of Dental Research, Oral Oncology, Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology and Endodontics. The reference lists of included studies and reviews were checked, and oral medicine experts were contacted through a European mailing list (EURORALMED).

Study selection Randomised controlled trials (RCT) were included if they had enrolled patients who had a diagnosis of oral leukoplakia and who were undergoing any surgical or medical (topical and systemic) treatment. The primary outcome considered was malignant transformation of leukoplakia demonstrated by histopathological examination. Other outcomes considered were clinical resolution, histological modification and frequency of adverse effects.

Data extraction and synthesis Data were collected using a specific extraction form. The validity of studies included was assessed by two reviewers, on the basis of the method of allocation concealment, blindness of the study and loss of participants. Data were analysed by calculating relative risk (RR). When valid and relevant data were collected, a meta-analysis of the data was undertaken.

Results The possible effectiveness of surgical interventions, including laser therapy and cryotherapy, has never been studied by means of an RCT. Nineteen RCT of nonsurgical interventions were identified: seven were included. Vitamin A and retinoids were tested in five RCT (245 patients); the other drugs tested were bleomycin (one study), mixed tea (one study) and beta-carotene (one study). Malignant transformation was recorded in just two studies. None of the treatments tested showed a benefit compared with placebo. Treatment with beta-carotene and vitamin A or retinoids was associated with significant rates of clinical resolution, compared with placebo or absence of treatment. Whenever reported, a high rate of relapse was a common finding. Side effects of variable severity were often described but interventions were well accepted by patients, since dropout rates were similar between treatment and control.

Conclusions To date there is no evidence of effective treatment in preventing malignant transformation of leukoplakia. Treatments may be effective in the resolution of lesions, but relapses and adverse effects are common.

Evidence-Based Dentistry (2005) 6, 15-16. doi:10.1038/sj.ebd.6400311
2005, Volume 6, Number 1, Pages 15-16

Periodontal infection as a possible severity factor for rheumatoid arthritis
Monday, April 4, 2005 | gp

Periodontal infection as a possible severity factor for rheumatoid arthritis
Juliana Ribeiro1, Anna Leão1 and Arthur B. Novaes2
Abstract

Objective: Clinical effects of periodontal treatment on biochemical and clinical markers of disease severity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with periodontal disease were evaluated.

Methods: Forty-two patients were assigned to two groups, G1 (n=16) and G2 (n=26). G1 patients were submitted to oral hygiene instruction and professional tooth cleaning and G2 patients additionally had full-mouth scaling and root planing (SRP). Clinical periodontal measurements were obtained at baseline and 3 months after periodontal treatment. A Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) was used to evaluate their performance on daily living. Rheumatoid factor (RF), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and drug therapy were assessed.

Results: Both groups presented a full-mouth improvement in all periodontal clinical parameters (p<0.05), with the exception of clinical attachment level (CAL) and probing pocket depth (PPD) >6 mm for G1. G2 showed greater mean reductions on PPD >4 mm than G1 (p<0.001). HAQ analyses showed a reduction on the degree of disability of G2, but not statistically significant. ESR was significantly reduced for G2 after SRP although RF did not show statistical reductions.

Conclusion: The data suggest that periodontal treatment with SRP might have an effect on the ESR reduction.

Efficacy of Listerine® Antiseptic in reducing viral contamination of saliva
Monday, April 4, 2005 | gp

Efficacy of Listerine® Antiseptic in reducing viral contamination of saliva
Timothy F. Meiller1,2, Arley Silva1,2, Sonia M. Ferreira1,2, Mary Ann Jabra-Rizk1, Jacqueline I. Kelley1 and Louis G. DePaola1
Abstract

Aim: The anti-viral efficacy of oral antimicrobial rinses has not been adequately studied in terms of potential clinical significance. As a follow-up to an in vitro study on the effect of oral antiseptics on Herpes simplex virus, Type 1, this study was undertaken to evaluate the in vivo effect of an essential oil containing oral antiseptic on the reduction of viral titer in saliva during active viral infection.

Method: Patients were recruited and evaluated in a single visit protocol at the onset of a perioral outbreak, consistent historically and clinically with recurrent Herpes labialis. Direct immunofluorescence of cytological smears of the lesions/oral fluids was used to confirm Herpes simplex virus types I or II. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: (1) active ingredient and (2) sterile water control. The viral lesion was evaluated as to clinical stage according to standard protocol. Salivary fluid samples were taken: (1) at baseline; (2) immediately following a 30 s rinse; (3) 30 min. after the 30 s rinse; and (4) on the repeat trial, also at 60 min. after the 30 s rinse. All samples were evaluated for viral titer and results compared.

Results: In Trial 1, the sample population consisted of 19 males and 21 females with an average age of 29.2 and in Trial 2, 21 males, 19 females with an average age of 28. In both Trials 1 and 2, recoverable infectious virions were reduced to zero after a 30 s experimental rinse; whereas, the control rinse resulted in a non-significant (p>0.05) reduction. The experimental group also demonstrated a continued significant (p<0.05) reduction 30 min. post rinse when compared with baseline while the control group returned to baseline levels. In Trial 2, the 60 min. post rinse follow-up demonstrated a 12 log residual reduction from baseline in the experimental group; however, this was not significant.

Conclusions: There is clinical efficacy in utilizing an oral rinse with the antimicrobial agent Listerine® Antiseptic in reducing the presence of viral contamination in oral fluids for at least 30 min. after oral rinse. The risk of viral cross contamination generated from these oral fluids in person to person contact or during dental treatment may be reduced.

Naturlose in fighting oral plaque
Sunday, April 3, 2005 | gp

The revolutionary product is doubly patented for use as an active drug and as a low-calorie sweetener in drugs to increase their palatability.

The BioSpherix Division of Spherix Incorporated has announced that human clinical trials had begun to test Naturlose, the Firm’s unique, naturally-occurring sugar, in fighting oral plaque.

BioSpherix believes that the trials, being conducted by the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, will provide human validation of the Firm’s own laboratory tests. They demonstrated Naturlose’s ability to prevent oral bacteria from forming plaque, and to destroy any plaque already formed. The Firm’s revolutionary product is doubly patented for use as an active drug and as a low-calorie sweetener in drugs to increase their palatability.

In the clinical trials, people known to form dental plaque will be chosen as subjects. At the start of the trial, their plaque levels will be reduced to zero by mechanical dental procedures. Using FDA-approved plaque-measuring techniques, the investigators will monitor and compare the effects of a Naturlose mouth rinse, a water mouth rinse, and a standard plaque-reducing chemical mouth rinse on the teeth and gums. The subjects will not know which mouth rinse they are using. They will be instructed to use only the given mouth rinse, with no tooth brushing, flossing, or other plaque removal technique for the multiple test periods as prescribed by the University of Maryland School of Dentistry investigators. The tests will be performed to FDA standards.

Compulsory Mouth Gaurds????
Sunday, April 3, 2005 | gp

Unless you belt down double-blacks or race HGVs to the inside line on corners, cycling is not dangerous. But that won't cut any ice with those who want to see all cyclists in the UK wear compulsory safety equipment. Right now it's just helmets, but in the US three dental orgs are calling for cyclists to wear mouth-guards, "not just in April but year-round...so adults and children alike...can continue to whistle, smile, sing." NOTE: this was NOT an April 1st spoof.
As part of a promotional programme for the fifth annual 'April is National Facial Protection Month', the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the American Association of Orthodontists are saying "An Ounce of Prevention Still Worth a Pound of Cure."

A top-of-the-line mouthguard can cost as much as $150, but say the dental orgs, "rehabilitation costs for a single knocked out tooth can surpass the price of a custom-made mouth guard by 20 times."

Likening mouthguards to cycle helmets, a press release from the three dental orgs says: "Helmets help players live to play another day . The U.S. Center for Disease Control estimates that universal helmet use could save one life each day."

Universal helmet use? For walking, driving and climbing trees? No, just cycling.

"Bicycle-related head injuries account for more than 150,000 emergency department visits annually. The rate of injury is highest for children ages 5 to 15," states the toothsome press release.

"The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and the American Association of Orthodontists advocate the use of mouth guards for children and adults when cycling, in-line skating, skateboarding or playing any sport with the potential for facial injuries."

Come on, why stop at sports? How many teeth are knocked out in bar-room brawls or in car crashes?

Dental Veneers, a Boon for many..
Sunday, April 3, 2005 | gp

People like Ramesh Thapper, who used to hide their teeth, are now happy to display their pearly whites, "If I look at my teeth now I can smile always."

How do you get a bright beautiful smile? Dr. Jacob Thomas says veneers are an answer, "A veneer is like a fake fingernail for your tooth." He says veneers have been around for a while, but reality shows have put them back in the spotlight, "We found a tremendous spike from our veneer cases since extreme makeover and shows like that."

Dr.Thomas says veneers are a quick fix to a host of problems, "It can change the color, it can change the shape, it can close gaps, it can change length discrepancies." A veneer is a custom fit thin layer of porcelain, but in order to put it on, some of your actual tooth needs to come off, "So as not to make these teeth look much thicker, we're actually removing that amount of material to put that material back in porcelain."

It takes at least a week for them to be made and then they're glued in place. The cost is about $1000 a tooth. For Ramesh, the result was priceless, "Now I feel more comfortable, just like, I'm a star."

That wasn't the case for Roy Moore. Three weeks after he had veneers put on, "I'm eating on the plane and all of a sudden I feel something in my mouth, it has chipped off." Not once, but twice.

He sought help from Dr. Kholi , who saw an immediate problem, "Every time he bit down the forces from his bite were forcing the veneer off, dislodging it."

Roy had to get them redone. Pohl says so did Filiz Gassman, "The gum tissue on one of her front teeth is much lower than on the other one. We had to redo at least 12 of her teeth minimal."

To avoid this kind of problem, make sure your dentist has extensive experience is doing veneers. Don't rely only on before and after pictures, you want to see and talk to at least one patient who's had this done.
Dentists says while patients can get amazing results with veneers, not everyone's a candidate, "Grinders are not candidates, especially people with extreme grinding habit. People with extremely dark teeth would probably not be candidates."

Even when done correctly veneers don't last forever. They usually need to be replaced every ten to fifteen years."

BDA Calls for Better Dentistry
Sunday, April 3, 2005 | gp

The British Dental Association is calling for patients and dentists to lobby candidates in the forthcoming general election for a better deal for dentistry. The call comes as the BDA, the UK's largest dental organisation, launches its manifesto for UK dentistry.

John Renshaw, chair of the BDA's Executive Board, said:

"We have all seen the images of people queuing for hours just to register with an NHS dentist and there is no doubt that access to dental care is extremely important to voters across the country. Parliamentary candidates from across the political divide must recognise this and act to help solve the UK's dental crisis."

With just a year to go until the largest ever overhaul of NHS dentistry is due to take place, the BDA is urging prospective parliamentary candidates to make dentistry a priority during the campaign. Access to dental services remains a problem in most areas of the UK and the Association reiterates its call for greater investment in dental services. Over the past 15 years, spending on the NHS as a whole has increased by 75 per cent, but spending on dentistry has risen by just nine per cent. The BDA also wants to see access problems tackled with a significant increase in training places for would-be dentists.

Dr Renshaw added:

"People in the UK have better oral health now than 30 years ago, but inequalities are increasing across the population. There is still much to be done to ensure better dental health for future generations. Our manifesto outlines six priority areas for action to make this happen. Prevention is better than cure, and an incoming government must invest in oral health education to instil good dental care habits in children that will set them up for life."

The BDA's manifesto also lends its support to the campaign to make school vending machines include healthier options and calls for water coolers, rather than fizzy drinks, to be made more readily available in schools. It also repeats the BDA's support for targeted water fluoridation schemes as a way of significantly reducing dental health inequalities.

1. The British Dental Association is the trade union and professional association for dentists practicing in the UK, representing 20,000 members working in all aspects of dentistry.

2. The six key points of the BDA's manifesto are:

-- Change for the better: introduce NHS dentistry reforms that work and give dentistry its fair share of increased NHS spending

-- Train more dentists: tackle the access problem and put an end to patient queues

-- Stop the rot: support preventive care for patients and invest in teaching children how to care for their teeth

-- Narrow the gap: fight dental health inequalities and bring in water fluoridation

-- Meet demand: support family dentists and recognise the value of the mixed economy for patient choice

-- Ensure quality care: develop the dental team and safeguard patients

3. For further information, or to arrange an interview with a BDA spokesperson, please contact the BDA's media team on 020 7563 4145/6.

British Dental Association

Soda Causes Errosion of Teeth
Sunday, April 3, 2005 | gp

Downing too many acidic foods, including soda, fruit juice, pickles, yogurt and even fresh fruit, can erode the teeth's protective enamel, dentists say. This erosion is one of the main processes that cause tooth decay.

"As the availability of soft drinks increases so does the amount of erosion in our population," according to Dr. Samantha Shipley, a member of the U.S. Army Dental Corps and the lead author of a report on dental erosion in the journal General Dentistry. "The primary action patients can take to decrease their likelihood of erosion is to reduce the consumption of sugary sodas, fruit juices and sports drinks."
According to Shipley and her colleagues, any highly acidic food has the potential to cause structural damage to the teeth. It's the job of saliva to restore the mouth's normal acid balance, but a steady diet of tart and tangy foods can overwhelm this natural defense.

Soda contains phosphoric acid, which is even more erosive than the organic acids found in some other foods, including fermented products like yogurt, which are rich in lactic acid, and fresh fruit and fruit products, which contain citric and malic acids. Grapes and wine come with a dose of tartaric acid, another organic compound.

Erosion is possible when any of these foods are consumed in excessive amounts. Cutting out soft drinks and fruit juice is no guarantee of an erosion-free smile, however.

Other eroding factors, according to the report authors, include acid reflux disease and even exposure to acidic gases. One study found that battery and phosphate mining company workers routinely exposed to sulfuric, phosphoric and other gases had high rates of dental erosion.

P G Diploma In Dentistry in Chennai
Sunday, April 3, 2005 | gp

Chennai, 1 April 2005: The Rajan Dental Institute Private Limited (RDI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Hong Kong here today regarding continuing education course in Dentistry, PG Diploma Programme and research collaboration between the two institutions.

Dr R Gunaseelan, medical director, Rajan Dental Institute Private Limited said that MoU between RDI and University of Hong kong would help the institute to reach new heights in the years to come.

L Samaranayake, Dean and Chair Professor of Oral Microbiology at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Hong Kong said, 'our faculty has gained good reputation around Asia as it comprises of international faculty from over 10 different countries which can be used by the RDI also.' He further said that the University is rated 39 in the World and 7 in Asia by the Times Education Classified.

B P Rajan, Former Vice Chancellor, Dr MGR Medical University and Founder of Rajan Dental Institute also present on the occasion.

Senior Dental Plan, A Dental Insurance Option
Sunday, April 3, 2005 | gp

Unicare Life & Health Insurance Company offers a Senior Dental Plan that helps keep those teeth healthy and your smiles bright.
It is a Participating Provider Organization Plan. So you have the option of going to any dentist or your choice. However, when you use a "Non-Contracting" provider, your out-of-pocket expenses may be greater. A large number of Dentists have agreed to provide services at contracted rates to UNICARE plan members, and those are known as "Contracting" dentists. These contracted or "negotiated" rates are generally lower than what the dentist's normal billable charges would be for these same procedures or services.

This UNICARE dental plan establishes a fixed dollar amount of coverage for the services listed in the benefit schedule. There is a small deductible of $50.00, before your benefits for covered services are available. The calendar year deductible is waived for preventiveand diagnostic services when rendered by a contracting dentist. The plan features preventive and diagnostic care, and a range of both basic and major dental care. Coverage for basic care begins after six(6)continuous months and for major care after twelve (12)continuous months of coverage.

Committee to Revise the Medical Curriculum in India
Sunday, April 3, 2005 | gp

The Central Government in India is to set up a Curriculum Committee to revise the medical curriculum in the next one or two years.

This was stated by the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss in response to certain suggestions by private and Government medical and dental college representatives in a meeting here today. He pointed out that there was a need to revise the curriculum not only to include newer courses and more practical oriented education but also to make it socially oriented and rural oriented.

In the first meeting of its kind, the Health and Family Welfare Ministry today invited more than 200 representatives of medical and dental college management to discuss issues relating to medical education.

Reacting to a suggestion that the retirement age of teachers in medical colleges should be raised from 65 to 70, he said the matter will be looked into. In order to boost medical healthcare on availability in rural areas, the Minister said that they are deliberating a proposal to make a rural stint necessary before either getting a Graduation Certificate or before applying for a Post-Graduate course.

The Health Minister exhorted the participants to increase medical colleges in backward areas. He said, of the 229 medical colleges in the country, 143 were in the four southern states and Maharashtra and Gujarat. Of the 229 medical colleges, 104 were in the private sector.

Reacting to a suggestion for regulating pay structures of doctors, the Minister said that the Government was planning to set up a Medical Grants Commission on the lines of the University Grants Commission. He said, there was a need to start courses on family medicines and public health and in order to maximize the technical experience, there was a need to network. He said, the Pharmaco Vigilance Committee which was set up recently was a network of 229 pharma departments across the country and was done with the aim to maximize the available resources and even explore possibilities of funding research. The Minister said that a stringent view will be taken of excess admission in the colleges as well as proxy teachers.

The Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Panabaka Lakshmi said that the aim of the meeting was to bring quality education into the medical arena. She said that the Government was committed to transparency and any participant was welcome to come to the Ministry to discuss any grievance.

Mouthguards Are a Must for Spring Sports
Sunday, April 3, 2005 | gp

Press Release Source: Pennsylvania Dental Association


Mouthguards Are a Must for Spring Sports, Says Pennsylvania Dental Association
Thursday March 31, 3:56 pm ET


HARRISBURG, Pa., March 31 /PRNewswire/ -- With the spring sports season upon us, the importance of equipping athletes with properly fitting mouthguards cannot be underestimated. The Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) recommends that everyone, from children to adults, wear a mouthguard during any recreational activity that might pose a risk of injury to the mouth.
Accidents can occur at any moment during physical activity. Wearing a mouthguard helps to cushion blows that might cause chipped or broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face or jaw, and may also reduce incidents or the severity of a concussion. Mouth protectors also may limit the risks of other injuries such as nerve damage to a tooth or even tooth loss and will protect the soft tissues of your tongue, lips and cheek lining. The National Youth Sports Foundation for the Prevention of Athletic Injuries, Inc. reports that dental injuries are the most common type of injury sustained during participation in sports.

The most effective guard should be protective, resilient, tear resistant and comfortable. It should fit properly, be durable and easy to clean and should not restrict speaking and breathing.

Your mouthguard can only work properly if it's in good shape. Remember to keep your mouthguard clean by washing it in water before and after wearing it.

Place the mouthguard in a firm, perforated container to store or transport it. This permits air circulation and will help to prevent damage. To minimize distortion, avoid high temperatures such as hot water or direct sunlight. Your mouthguard should be replaced at least once a season, and you should always replace it if it becomes damaged or if there is any change in your mouth or teeth.

There are four types of athletic mouthguards currently available to the public:


-- Stock - The least expensive, these guards are available at most
sporting goods stores and are ready to be used without further
preparation. Unfortunately they are bulky, lack retention and may
interfere with speech and breathing.
-- Mouth Formed or Boil and Bite - The most commonly used guards on the
market, boil and bite protectors are softened in boiling water and
develop by forming to your mouth. Though they provide a better fit for
your mouth than stock guards, these are still bulky and have poor
retention abilities.
-- Custom-Made - Though more expensive than stock or boil and bite,
custom-made guards are designed specifically by your dentist and are
considered the most effective method for preventing and reducing mouth
injuries. These provide the most comfort and safety of all types of
mouthguards and fulfill all the criteria for adaptation, retention,
and stability.
-- Laboratory Pressure Laminated Mouthguard - A more advanced custom-made
guard, this mouth protector is made by laminating two or three layers
of material to achieve maximum thickness and protection.

The PDA encourages you to talk to your dentist. He or she can answer any questions you may have and help you enjoy your favorite sports more safely. For information on other oral health topics, visit the PDA's website at http://www.padental.org.