Orthodontic aligners: little evidence to assess their effectiveness

shutterstock_69850990- vacuum splint

The use of clear orthodontic aligners is increasing, despite searching a wide range of databases this review only identified a limited number of small studies. The quality of the studies was not sufficient to draw any evidence-based decisions on the effectiveness of orthodontic aligners so better quality studies are needed.

[read the full story...]

Study suggests that daily consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks increases caries risk in adults

shutterstock_151792955

There is a well-established association between sugar and dental caries which was reinforced in a recent systematic review by Moynihan and Kelly (Dental Elf 12th Dec 2013). S ugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) which have sucrose (table sugar), high-fructose corn syrup or fruit- juice concentrates, either as purchased or added after purchase have seen sales and consumption [read the full story…]

UK norms for dental anxiety

shutterstock_2122588

The 2009 adult dental survey conducted in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland was the 5th decennial survey undertaken in the UK.    It was based on a two-stage cluster sample and of 12,054 eligible households  7,233 participated.  Of the 13,509 adults in these households 11,382 participated (84%). The survey consisted of a clinical examination and a [read the full story…]

Topical fluorides for moderate to high caries risk adults

shutterstock_12720943-mouthwash

There is a tendency to focus on the prevention of dental caries in children yet is it is a problem that continues to affect old and young alike.  While considerable time and effort is spent on preventive programmes for children far less consideration to adults. The American Dental Association Center for Evidence-Based Dentistry has published [read the full story…]