As a Dentist, I spend many hours reading dental Journals to ensure that I keep current in my field. Taking things a step further, I thought I’d share a summary of some of the latest research findings with you and provide some recommendations accordingly.
Cheese may prevent cavities
Journal: General Dentistry
Summary: Researchers looked at dental plaque pH in their subjects’ mouths after one group ate cheddar cheese, another ate sugar-free yogurt and a third drank milk. They discovered that those who ate the cheese showed a rapid increase in pH levels, suggesting that cheese has anti-cavity properties.
Recommendation: You guessed it – eat cheese! In moderation, it’s a healthy snack and it could do your teeth some good too!
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Fluoridated drinking water can improve adults’ dental health
Journal: Journal of Dental Research
Summary: It was once thought that only children benefitted from fluoride in drinking water. In this first population study of its kind, it has been determined that fluoridated water also reduces tooth decay in adults, even when they start drinking it after childhood.
Recommendation: Regardless of your age, make tap water your main source of hydration.
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Postmenopausal women who have smoked are at greater risk of losing teeth due to gum disease
Journal: Journal of the American Dental Association
Summary: While smoking has long been associated with tooth loss, this important study has demonstrated that postmenopausal women who have smoked or still do smoke, are six times more likely to lose their teeth than those who never smoked.
Recommendation: Quit the habit and save your teeth (and your life!)
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Oral bacterium discovered
Journal: Cell Host and Microbe
Summary: While researchers have known for years that bacteria are responsible for gum disease, until now, the bacteria had not been identified. Researchers from the University of Michigan not only identified this bacteria – called NI1060 – but discovered that it triggers a protein to destroy bone in the oral cavity.
Recommendation: Keep your mouth clean! Regular and frequent brushing, flossing and dental cleanings are so important in helping to ensure that you keep this harmful bacteria away!
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Invisalign proven effective by standardized grading system
Journal: Journal of the World Federation of Orthodontists
Summary: The Model Grading System (MGS) of the American Board of Orthodontics was used in this research study to evaluate the effectiveness of Invisalign to treat mild to moderate malocclusions or bite problems. It proved to be extremely effective in correcting tooth alignment.
Recommendation: Find out if you could be a candidate for Invisalign! Not only is it an effective option, but it’s also discreet and affordable. Brantford North Dental offers free orthodontic evaluations. I’d be happy to discuss with you – free of charge – whether Invisalign could be an option that is right for you.
Steven Deskin is a Dentist in general practice.
