Mark-Steven Howe looks in detail at a recent network meta-analysis (NMA) of periodontal outcomes following third molar surgery. However the limited number of studies available for the NMA mean the reviews findings need to be interpreted with caution.
[read the full story...]
51 studies were included in this Cochrane review of chlorhexidine mouthwash as an adjunct to mechanical oral hygiene measures. The review provides high quality evidence for a large reduction in the build-up of plaque at 4 to 6 weeks or 6 months. There is also high quality evidence of a moderate reduction in gingivitis in patients with mild gingivitis which may not be clinically important.
[read the full story...]
Andrew Sommerlad reviews a new systematic review and meta-analysis and asks: Can two questions identify depression in older people?
This is the second in a new series of Mental Elf blogs produced in partnership with the British Journal of Psychiatry.
[read the full story...]
This review of TMJ lavage for temporomandibular disorders only included 5 small RCTs a majority of which were at high risk of bias. While the findings suggest a benefit from lavage this should be interpreted cautiously because of the limited quality of the available evidence.
[read the full story...]
Joe Barnby considers the findings of a recent meta-analysis of cannabis use and symptoms severity in individuals at ultra-high risk for psychosis.
[read the full story...]
Mark-Steven Howe assesses a systematic review looking at the impact of rigid and non-rigid connectors between natural teeth and implants on the biological, functional and/or the prosthetic complication rates. Ten mainly retrospective studies were included providing limited evidence that needs to be interpreted cautiously.
[read the full story...]
This review of chlorhexidine (CHX) for prevention & treatment of oral mucositis included 12 RCTs with 9 contribution to the meta-analysis. CHX was not significantly effective in preventing mucositis or reducing its severity.
[read the full story...]
This review of the effectiveness of chlorhexidine for prevention of dry socket after third molar removal includes 18 RCTs. The finding suggest a 47% (95%CI,38-55) reduction in cases following its use.
[read the full story...]
35 studies investigating 47 clinical groups were included in this review of the association between dental anxiety and pain during dental treatment. The findings suggest a consistent impact on pain through the entire period of dental treatment.
[read the full story...]
Sarah McDonald is left feeling frustrated by this meta-analysis of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy for depression and anxiety in older people.
[read the full story...]
