Review suggests that single crowns supported by short implants are an acceptable and predictable option

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The aim of this review was to assess the effectiveness of short (<10 mm) implants supporting single crowns in the posterior region and its potential risk factors. A wide range of databases were searched  (PubMed-Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Proquest- Dissertations and Thesis, Lilacs, Ebsco-Dentistry and Oral Sciences Source, Scirus, Embase, Scopus and Journal [read the full story…]

Limited study suggests that use of semi-rigid plates and screws reduce mandibular fracture treatment costs

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Fractures of the mandible are a common occurrence.  Two approaches to treatment of mandibular fractures are; rigid fixation using large titanium plates and bicortical screws that function in a load-bearing manner using Arbeitsge-menschaft fur Osteosynthesefragen (AO) principles or semi-rigid fixation using small titanium plates and monocortical screws that function in a load-sharing manner placed according [read the full story…]

Is there an association between head and neck posture and temporomandibular disorders?

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Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) can affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) the muscles of mastication or both. A range of factors have been related to TMDs , occlusion, trauma, deep pain stimulus, parafunctional activities and psychological factors, such as anxiety, depression and stress . It has also been suggested that postural problems related to the head and [read the full story…]

The minimum record set required for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning remains undefined

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Prior to orthodontic diagnosis a range or records may be obtained, typically these include, dental models, radiographs and facial and intra-oral photographs. Advances in digital technology means that 3D technology is also available. However, the role and use of any or each of these elements of the record set is unclear. Therefore the aim of [read the full story…]

Only low-quality evidence to assess effectiveness of bonding for fixed orthodontic appliances

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Fixed banded orthodontic treatment is commonplace not only amongst children by but increasingly in adults.  Being able to successful bond these brackets to the teeth during treatment is a one factor for successful treatment.   The aim of this review was to compare the effects of different dental etchants and different etching techniques for the bonding [read the full story…]

Limited evidence to decide whether visual screening reduces the death rate for oral cancer

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Yesterday we looked at a review of the effectiveness of oral examination to detect potentially malignant disorders and mouth cancer today we are looking the latest version of the Cochrane review on screening programmes for the detection and prevention of oral cancer. The overall aim of this review was to assess the effectiveness of current [read the full story…]

Oral examination to detect potentially malignant disorders and mouth cancer

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November is Mouth Cancer Awareness month here in the UK and around 6,500 cases are diagnosed a year. Mouth cancer is the 6th commonest cancer worldwide.  In India, Sir Lanka and Pakistan it is the most common cancer for men and is responsible for 30% of all new cancer cases. Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, betel [read the full story…]

Patients showed a preference to retain a tooth affected by apical periodontitis

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Apical periodontitis (AP) is a common dental problem and can be treated by root canal treatment (RoCT) or extraction.  The aim of this survey for to explore patients’ preferences for management of a tooth affected by AP, when considering its retention via RoCT, its extraction without replacement, or its replacement with an implant supported crown [read the full story…]

Insufficient evidence to determine the effects of routine scale and polish treatments

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An update of the Cochrane review on routine scale and polish is now available.  Scaling and polishing is provided by dentists or hygienists at regular intervals. It is often a regular component of ‘a dental checkup’ whether or not a patient is at risk of developing periodontal disease. The objectives were:- to determine the beneficial [read the full story…]

Small study suggests possible benefit from implant overdentures for edentulous patients over 75 years of age

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Studies suggest that implant overdentures (IODs) can improve function and quality of life. However most studies are conducted in adults under the age of 70.  The aim of this study was to investigate denture satisfaction, functional, nutritional and patients centered aspect of IODs in patients over 75 years of age. Edentulous and denture wearing patients [read the full story…]