Dental Abstracts RSS feed: Current Issue. Information from around the globe is presented in this bimonthly publication featuring approximately 50 abstracts from key articles in dentistry. Dental Abstracts keeps dentists informed of developments and advances in general dentistry and its specialties in an easy-to-read, abstract format. Graphs, tables, and figures that have appeared in original articles are also included. This time-saving publication covers topics such as guided tissue regeneration, treatments for anterior single tooth implants, clinical evaluation of dentin bonding agents, and more.http://www.dentalabstracts.com/?rss=yesElsevier Inc.en © 2010 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Dental Abstracts0011-8486553May 2010 © 2010 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. healthpermissions@elsevier.comhttp://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610001147/abstract?rss=yesMasthead10.1016/S0011-8486(10)00114-7Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6IFCIFChttp://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610001159/abstract?rss=yesEditorial Board10.1016/S0011-8486(10)00115-9Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6113113http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610001160/abstract?rss=yesTable of Contents10.1016/S0011-8486(10)00116-0Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6114115http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610001007/abstract?rss=yesOral Health America (OHA) is a national nonprofit organization headquartered in Chicago, whose mission is to connect communities with resources to increase access to oral health care, education, and advocacy for all Americans, especially those most vulnerable. OHA's vision is a future in which all Americans experience good oral health as a critical part of their overall health and well-being.Oral Health America's Medical-dental dialogues: 2009 symposium on collaborative healthcare for older adultsElizabeth L. Rogers10.1016/j.denabs.2010.03.001Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Commentary116118http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000543/abstract?rss=yesInfection control procedures are routine in dentistry, yet with each new threat it is important to review and ensure that everything possible is being done to protect not just ourselves and our staff but also patients and families. The best course is to be prepared for anything that may come our way. Fortunately, most agents are well managed through the standard infection control precautions followed by dental health care workers already. The Standard Precautions developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are foundational to the comprehensive infection control program and apply to all patients in any setting in which health care is delivered.Keeping the office free of H1N110.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.002Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6119119http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000555/abstract?rss=yesHow can a dental practice become highly successful and remain so, especially in the difficult economic situation we now face? Patients tend to judge their dental office more on how they are treated than on the actual dental care they receive. The difference between a highly successful practice and others is often accounted for by the customer service offered. Highly successful practices offer “Stage III Customer Service,” which is about creating a total experience for patients at every point of encounter, giving them a “wow” experience from the moment they enter the office until they leave.How to “wow” your patients10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.003Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Customer Service120120http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000567/abstract?rss=yesYou offer an applicant the job and schedule a starting point, then find out, perhaps through a background check, that the candidate is not going to be appropriate for some reason. You withdraw the offer, assuming that because you are employing “at will” there will be no consequences. Withdrawing a job offer is not necessarily illegal, but there are risks that must be considered.Yes—I mean, no10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.004Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Employment121122http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000579/abstract?rss=yesYou are faced with an employee whose work habits create problems for the rest of the team, perhaps through tardiness, unwillingness to help other staff members, or leaving early. Wanting to be sensitive to the employee's situation but knowing that you must address the problems, you meet behind closed doors, discuss the situation, and terminate the individual's employment with you. You might think that everything is settled until you read in the paper about a dentist who is being charged with sexual harassment—and it is you.Staff disclaimer10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.005Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Employment122122http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000580/abstract?rss=yesDental plaque consists of at least 800 bacterial species; a number that will rise as mass sequencing techniques are further developed. Oral biofilms develop under various conditions and in various environments as a result of multitudinous factors, such as interbacterial co-adhesion, pH, oxygen, and nutrients. The emerging concepts in microbial ecology, especially in relation to oral biofilm development and the treatment of oral diseases, were explored.Microbial ecology10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.006Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6The Big Picture123126http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848609006116/abstract?rss=yesWomen who drank 2 or more diet sodas daily had a 30% decline in kidney function in 6 years. In natural aging the glomerular filtration rate, a measure of kidney function, falls about 1 mL/minute each year above the age 40. In these women it decreases 3 mL/minute per year. The study by Julie Lin and colleagues at Harvard Medical School looked at 3256 women's reports of drinking sugary beverages, including sugar-sweetened drinks such as fruit juices or teas, sugar-sweetened soda, and artificially sweetened soda. Frequency was less than 1 per month, 1 to 4 times/month, 2 to 6 times/month, 1 per day, or at least 2 per day. No link was found for kidney function and other beverages or intake levels but drinking at least 2 diet sodas a day clearly accelerated kidney function decline.Drinking Diet Soda can Cause Kidney Problems10.1016/j.denabs.2009.12.042Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Extracts126126http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000592/abstract?rss=yesThe patron saint of dentistry is St Apollonia. She was a young woman who lived in Alexandria and held the role of local deaconess. She preached and led many to Christianity. According to legend, the Romans threatened to burn her alive unless she bowed to their heathen idols. She refused and was beaten, having her teeth pulled out with pincers. Another legend says that her teeth were broken by fist blows and sharp stones, and still another says that she was decapitated for distributing her family wealth to the poor. Later accounts say that her brother punished her for breaking a forced betrothal agreement. She was canonized by Pope John XXI (1215-1277) (). Regardless of the reason, her story is linked to teeth, and relics of her teeth and other body parts have been venerated for centuries. In the Cathedral of Mary's Assumption in Rab, Croatia, there is a reliquary of the Venetian provenance from the 16th/17th century containing the tooth of St Apollonia. There is no indication as to when or how the relic came to Rab. Because the relics of martyrs have often been associated with fraud, the highest church authorities in 1543 stipulated that every relic should have a special seal (autentica). An evaluation of the tooth was undertaken to determine its anatomic and morphologic status.St Apollonia's tooth10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.007Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6History of Dentistry127128http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS001184861000097X/abstract?rss=yesSinus pain and pressure, headache, stuffy nose, and sneezing of chronic rhinosinusitis may compromise quality of life more than congestive heart failure, back pain, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Patients with chronic sinusitis benefited from endoscopic sinus surgery according to a recent report in Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery. Dr Timothy Smith, the lead author, describes it as “a minimally invasive type of surgery performed with a telescope that goes into the nostril” to trim away tissue interfering with normal function. The patients had symptoms for at least 3 months plus inflammation or infection in the nose and sinuses. After surgery about 76% reported significantly improved quality of life. Those with the most severe symptoms and those having surgery for the first time showed the most improvement.Better Quality of Life for Sinus Sufferers10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.045Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Extracts128128http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000609/abstract?rss=yesBisphosphonates can reduce the rate of orthodontic movement by affecting various cellular processes that cause bone resorption. The possible effects of bisphosphonate therapy on orthodontic treatment were reviewed, and recommendations for orthodontists suggested.Orthodontic considerations of bisphosphonate therapy10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.008Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Bisphosphonates129131http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000634/abstract?rss=yesRoot canals should not be left only partially instrumented, nor should their preparation extend beyond the tooth root. However, it is clinically impossible to exactly identify the canal terminus or minor apical diameter, which is the ideal location for the working length (WL) in performing root canal preparation and filling. Even the cementodentinal junction (CDJ) cannot be precisely identified clinically. To address this shortcoming, electronic apex locators (EALs) were developed. The accuracy and predictability of two EALs for identifying WL were compared to radiographic findings.Electronic apex locators10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.011Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Endodontics131132http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000658/abstract?rss=yesAgeism is the stereotyping of and discrimination against individuals or groups based on their age. It occurs at multiple levels, including in patients themselves. Often a patient states that he or she won't be around much longer, or the family may let dental care lapse because of the individual's advanced age. Dental professionals need to see each patient as an individual and not make assumptions based on the person's age. They must deliver to each patient the level of care most closely aligned with his or her valuing of dental care. It is best to anticipate the range of health issues that can arise with aging, which often requires independent study. This knowledge is then applied to individual patients and behavior adjusted as appropriate.Communication10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.013Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Geriatric Dentistry132133http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS001184861000066X/abstract?rss=yesDeep carious dentin lesions comprise two distinct layers: an outer layer of infected dentin that is structurally unsound and has poor mechanical properties, and an inner layer of affected dentin that is partly demineralized and susceptible to remineralization. This inner layer has been preserved selectively to maintain the most dental structure possible and reduce pulpal exposure. Clinical success rates have been encouraging for this practice, but concerns about safety have prompted resistance to intentionally leaving any carious dentin behind, especially because viable bacteria are consistently found in the remaining affected dentin. Liners may provide antibacterial activity to promote the inactivation of any remaining bacteria, with glass-ionomer liners seen as perfect for this application because of their in vitro inhibitory effects on bacteria and suitable mechanical and physical properties. The clinical and microbiological performance of two different resin-modified glass-ionomer cements (RMGICs) and calcium hydroxide cement was compared with respect to effectiveness and ability to identify strains of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus from dentin samples obtained before and after treatment.Selective dentin removal10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.014Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Glass Ionomers133134http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000683/abstract?rss=yesReviewing the actions required by dental staff to minimize the risk of infection seems to indicate that everything is under control, but the reality is that the possibility of infection still exists. It is impossible to foresee all the possible combinations of treatments and patient behaviors and reactions that could occur. The danger of exposure to contaminated blood-borne disease faced by patients undergoing extraction in a dental surgery practice was investigated.Avoiding cross-infection after extraction10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.016Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Infection Control134135http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000695/abstract?rss=yesRather than rely on manufacturer presentations, it is important to seek knowledge from the scientific published data and/or academic sources. The goals of such sources include science-based education regarding the appropriate clinical applications without commercialism or bias. Specific to lasers, it is important to understand how they work and how to apply them in dentistry in general and your practice in particular.Soft tissue lasers10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.017Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Lasers135137http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000701/abstract?rss=yesAfter the administration of a local anesthetic for dental procedures, patients can develop systemic and/or localized complications. Included among these are hematoma and damage to the inferior alveolar nerve, which may be pierced by the needle. Two cases of unusual complications with inferior alveolar nerve block were reported.Trismus after inferior alveolar nerve block10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.018Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Local Anesthesia137138http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000713/abstract?rss=yesVibrational hand neuropathy occurs in occupations that expose one to vibration, including car assembly, stone-cutting, and dentistry. Characteristics include paresthesia and/or whitening of the fingers, pain and tenderness of the wrist or hand, and weakness of the muscles. The vibration of drills or ultrasonic scalers produces small nerve fiber injury rather than the nerve compression common with carpal tunnel syndrome and similar disorders. The effect of such vibrating tools on the manual tactile sensitivity of dentists was investigated.Vibrational hand neuropathy10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.019Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Occupational Injuries138139http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000725/abstract?rss=yesOral and oropharyngeal cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the world, with particularly high incidences in South Asia, Pacific areas, Latin America, and parts of Central and Eastern Europe. Usually oral cancer is a self-induced disease and is associated with specific risk factors. Existing and emerging risk factors that dentists should know and controversies related to etiologic concerns were outlined so that dentists are aware of the important and relevant risks their patients face.Causes of oral cancer10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.020Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Oral Cancer139139http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000749/abstract?rss=yesOver 80% of lumps involving the major salivary glands are benign, whereas a similar percentage of those involving the minor salivary glands prove to be malignant. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are routinely faced with these types of lesions. The goal with the benign major salivary gland lesions is to preserve key anatomical structures and maintain optimal function, making lumpectomy and superficial parotidectomy for benign parotid lumps somewhat controversial. The most appropriate techniques for treating stones in the submandibular gland are also points of controversy. Articles relevant to the current status of salivary gland management were reviewed.Salivary gland disease management10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.022Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Oral Medicine141142http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000774/abstract?rss=yesMany oral conditions develop in relation to smoking, such as tooth staining, bad breath, periodontal disease, and delayed wound healing. Smoking is also a risk factor for precancer and oral cancer. Smoking cessation can bring about a reversal in the early stages of some conditions. Dentists have frequent contact with their patients and can effectively share the message about the dangers of smoking and how to quit. Patients' knowledge about the effects of smoking and their attitudes toward dentists taking on smoking cessation counseling were evaluated.Dentists' role as health counselors10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.025Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Smoking Cessation142144http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848609005901/abstract?rss=yesAlthough few dental professionals offer their patients the full range of recommended tobacco-cessation assistance routinely, patients indicate that they are more satisfied with their care when tobacco use is addressed. Studies show that brief tobacco interventions offered in dental and medical offices increase patients' quit rates. The recommended intervention for dental offices includes the “5As”: Ask about tobacco use, Advise users to quit, Assess their readiness to quit, Assist interested smokers to quit, and Arrange for follow-up. Many dental professionals counsel their patients to quit smoking but few offer assistance or arrange for follow-up. However, these more intensive components have the most impact on cessation rates. Clinicians cite a lack of time, training, knowledge, or skills in tobacco-cessation assistance as reasons for not making this a part of their routine. The experience of a large prepaid dental care system in implementing an assisted referral approach was described.Assisted referral approach10.1016/j.denabs.2009.12.021Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Tobacco Cessation144146http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848609005913/abstract?rss=yesMild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) or concussion is caused by a direct blow to the head, face, neck, or other body area and causes a short-lived impairment of neurological function that resolves spontaneously. Persons who suffer particularly a sports-related concussion/MTBI have a relative risk about six times greater for a subsequent concussion than those with no previous history. High school football players are at a higher risk for concussion/MTBI than professional football players. In addition, professionals tend to have a rapid neuropsychological recovery whereas high-school players show a slower recovery with more prolonged neuropsychological effects. This difference in risk may be a function of the older athletes' stronger neck musculature or the fact that they wear customized mouthguards. Current evidence does not clearly support mouthguard use, however, to prevent concussion/MTBI. Whether the use of a custom-made mandibular orthotic (CMO) can reduce the incidence of concussion/MTBI in high school football players after correcting for TMJ/jaw relations was evaluated.Custom-made mandibular orthotics to prevent concussion10.1016/j.denabs.2009.12.022Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Traumatology147148http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848609005925/abstract?rss=yesDental avulsions present the clinician with a difficult problem. Early intervention appears to be best for replantation success, but the hard and soft tissues need to have time to heal from the initial injury and to allow the pain and swelling to resolve. Thus replantation timing is often based on factors outside of the clinician's control.Pulp extirpation timing10.1016/j.denabs.2009.12.023Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Avulsed Teeth149149http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000798/abstract?rss=yesAmalgam restorations have been promoted as the treatment of choice, yet problems accompany their use. Amalgam cannot provide a sufficient seal against microleakage, does not adhere effectively to tooth structure, requires the removal of sound tooth structure to permit mechanical retention, and is associated with a high incidence of tooth fracture and discoloration. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were reviewed to determine the adhesion achieved by bonded versus nonbonded amalgam restorations in conventional preparations using deliberate retention.Bonded versus nonbonded amalgam10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.027Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Dental Materials149150http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000804/abstract?rss=yesHand or rotary instrument preparation shatters dentin and produces considerable amounts of debris. The debris consists largely of small particles of mineralized collagen matrix and which spreads over the surface to form the smear layer. The root canal smear layer is about 1 μm thick and contains the remnants of odontoblastic processes, pulp tissue, and bacteria. Thus, it is mainly inorganic and lines the instrumented canal surfaces. It has a superficial layer () and material that becomes packed into the dentinal tubules to varying distances (). Factors that influence the forcing of smear layer components into the dentinal tubules are: the action of burs and instruments, capillary action resulting from adhesive forces between the dentinal tubules and the material, the presence of surface-active reagents, the type and sharpness of the cutting instruments, and whether the dentin is wet or dry. Thicker layers may result from centrifugal forces caused by the movement and proximity of an instrument to the dentin wall; these layers can be more resistant to removal with chelating agents. The amount of smear layer produced by motorized preparation exceeds that produced by hand filing. Under the scanning electron microscope, the smear layer often takes on an amorphous irregular, granular appearance, possibly formed by translocating and burnishing the superficial components of the dentin walls during treatment ().Removal of smear layer10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.028Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Endodontics150152http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000816/abstract?rss=yesA systematic review was completed in 2007 regarding the use of maxillary implant–supported overdentures, noting especially the number of implants and the anchorage design. This review identified the minimum number of implants needed to support a maxillary overdenture as four, with six in the cases of compromised bone. This review did not cover various other aspects, so another systematic review was conducted looking specifically at the survival of implants, the survival of maxillary overdentures, and the condition of the proximal hard and soft tissues after a mean of at least 1 year.Maxillary implant–supported overdentures10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.029Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Implants152153http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS001184861000083X/abstract?rss=yesThe contribution of oral health to overall well-being is established. The mechanisms influencing this relationship are still being evaluated. Tooth loss reduces chewing ability, which can alter nutrient intake. If persons with fewer teeth intake fewer essential nutrients, they may face an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other systemic conditions. However, a multitude of factors contribute to the effect of tooth loss on health, including level of dental treatment and socioeconomic status (SES). To control for these factors, the relationship between tooth loss and dietary intake was studied in a population of dentists whose level of dental treatment and SES were homogeneous.Tooth loss and nutrition10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.031Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Nutrition153154http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000841/abstract?rss=yesStudies suggest that tooth loss may be related to weight loss, often through inadequate and unbalanced food intake. Whether reconstruction of occlusion via prosthodontic treatment produces better nutritional intake in elderly institutionalized patients was investigated.Prosthodontic treatment and nutritional status10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.032Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Nutrition154154http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000853/abstract?rss=yesBreastfeeding provides several advantages to infants' oral and overall health. Because of these benefits, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a minimum of exclusive breastfeeding until age 6 months. In orthodontics, breastfeeding may affect craniofacial growth and development, prevent nonnutritive sucking habits, and stimulate the proper functional development of the stomatognathic system. Some studies have noted an association between insufficient breastfeeding duration and malocclusions, especially posterior crossbite. Posterior crossbite develops early and rarely resolves spontaneously, so preventive measures or interventions are needed during the deciduous dentition phase. The relationship between exclusive breastfeeding duration and prevalence of posterior crossbite in the deciduous dentition was assessed.Breastfeeding duration and posterior crossbite10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.033Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Occlusion155155http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000877/abstract?rss=yesThe oral cavity is home to over 700 species of microorganisms. In addition to oral species, various medically important nonoral pathogens can be present, particularly in the oral plaque of hospitalized persons. This includes Acinetobacter spp, Dialister pneumosintes, Pseudomonas spp, Enterobacter spp, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Hemophilus spp, and Staphylococcus aureus. Poor oral health, significant deposits of dental plaque, and periodontal disease can increase the frequency of colonization. Bacteria can be translocated from the biofilm to the respiratory tract, and saliva can serve as a vehicle for bacteria residing in the oral cavity, permitting their aspiration into the lungs. The prevalence of potential bacterial respiratory pathogens in the dental biofilm and saliva of hospitalized patients was evaluated, as was the possibility that the frequency of these organisms might influence patients' epidemiological status and general and periodontal health.Respiratory pathogens10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.035Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Oral Medicine156157http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000889/abstract?rss=yesVitamin B12 deficiency is widely recognized as a possible predisposing factor for the development of recurrent aphthous ulceration (RAU). However, the evidence supporting this association and the efficacy of vitamin B12 supplementation to treat RAU remains controversial. A randomized, double-blind placebo-control trial on vitamin B12 supplementation was recently conducted.Vitamin B12 for aphthous ulcers10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.036Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Oral Medicine157158http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000890/abstract?rss=yesNearly 100% of patients with dentofacial disharmony who undergo a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO), either alone or with maxillary osteotomy, suffer inferior alveolar nerve injury intraoperatively. This demyelination or axonal damage manifests most often as altered sensation, with over 60% of patients reporting persistent altered sensation 6 months postoperatively. Most patients recover sensation but it may require several years. The reported alterations can have a negative impact on orofacial function and daily activities. Recent treatment approaches include simple facial exercises that can be performed at home. The facial sensory retraining exercises are performed with the standard opening exercises after BSSO. This approach often lessens the patient's problems related to numbness, unusual sensations, and lip sensitivity compared with using the opening exercises only. It is believed that these exercises alter central nervous system (CNS) organization so that functionally useful information can be obtained from the disordered nerve signals after injury. Other factors that contribute to the development of altered sensation include older age and psychological distress, which are related to elevated pain and diminished satisfaction after surgery. The possibility that demographic, clinical, or presurgical psychological factors influence the self-reports of altered sensation 2 years after BSSO and the long-term effects of sensory retraining exercises were investigated.Sensory retraining after orthognathic surgery10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.037Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Oral Surgery158159http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000920/abstract?rss=yesPatient compliance and cooperation are major contributors to the success of orthodontic treatment. However, studies find significant variance in the amount of patient compliance that accompanies orthodontic treatment. Factors that may predict the patient's cooperation include his or her attitude toward the treatment immediately before and during the process and the ability to cope with discomfort. Reward systems to improve cooperation are least effective with the below-average compliers. To understand patient cooperation better, combinations of parent and child factors were investigated to determine which may be motivating and whether there is an interaction effect between them.Parent and patient motivation10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.040Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Orthodontics160161http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848609005986/abstract?rss=yesAmong the adverse events associated with local anesthesia is postinjection neuropathy or paresthesia. Nonsurgical cases of paresthesia in dentistry predominately result from inferior alveolar nerve block injection and affect the lingual nerve. From 85% to 94% of these cases resolve spontaneously within about 2 months. Of those that do not resolve quickly, about two thirds of the patients do not fully recover from the injury. Cases of nonsurgical paresthesia voluntarily reported to the Professional Liability Program (PLP) of the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario between 1999 and 2008 were reviewed to see if the findings were consistent with cases reported between 1973 and 1998 to the PLP.Nonsurgical paresthesia10.1016/j.denabs.2009.12.029Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Paresthesia161162http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848609006037/abstract?rss=yesBacteria called probiotics have been added to foods because they demonstrate beneficial effects on human health. The potential benefits of probiotics relative to oral pathology have not been well studied, however.Probiotics10.1016/j.denabs.2009.12.034Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Preventive Dentistry162164http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000932/abstract?rss=yesThe incidence of early childhood caries (ECC) has increased in prevalence, seriousness, and cost to society, whereas that of caries in school-age children has declined. Over 50% of kindergarteners already have ECC, and the incidence is 32 times higher in infants from families of low socioeconomic status, of mothers with low education level, and in those who consume sugary foods. Programs have been developed to educate and promote preventive measures among parents of at-risk infants. The effect of an infant oral health education program on parental knowledge of infant oral hygiene procedures, timing of the first dental visit, and dietary choices was assessed.Teaching parents about infant oral health care10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.041Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Preventive Dentistry164164http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000944/abstract?rss=yesImplant-supported mandibular overdentures (ISMODs) offer an alternative to conventional dentures for selected patients. Because of the associated cost and the need for suitably trained dentists and prosthodontists, ISMODs are not available to every patient who would be otherwise among the selected. In making clinical decisions, it is important to weigh prognostic indicators. The evidence supporting numerous possible indicators predictive of prosthodontic success or failure with conventional complete dentures was reviewed.Predicting success10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.042Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Removable Prosthodontics165166http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000956/abstract?rss=yesTreatment with conventional complete dentures is the most common approach in caring for edentulous patients. When the natural teeth are lost, the patient develops bone resorption, temporomandibular dysfunction, and muscular hypotonicity, altering the structures used during chewing. Some research indicates that these changes affect the patient's masticatory efficiency, and optimal levels are not regained even when the best complete dentures are fitted for the individual. The efficiency and duration of masticatory cycles in denture wearers were measured to determine when efficiency may be regained.Masticatory cycle efficiency10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.043Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Removable Prosthodontics166166http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000968/abstract?rss=yesThe incidence of head-and-neck injuries in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom is 29% of battlefield injuries, which is higher than the historical rate of 16% to 21%. These conflicts also exhibit a pattern of partial face traumatic avulsions not seen previously. The craniomaxillofacial (CMF) injuries seen in the current US armed conflicts were analyzed to better understand the trends that had been observed.Battlefield craniomaxillofacial injuries10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.044Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Trauma167168http://www.dentalabstracts.com/article/PIIS0011848610000981/abstract?rss=yesThere is no quick fix for chronic sleep loss according to a study in Science Translational Medicine. Researchers led by Dr Daniel Cohen from Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) in Boston studied short-term and long-term sleep loss combined with the body's natural circadian rhythm. Not only is sleep loss hard to recoup, but it severely impairs later performance, especially at night when performance is naturally low.Paying for Chronic Sleep Loss10.1016/j.denabs.2010.02.046Dental Abstracts 55, 3 (2010)2010-05-01Dental Abstracts2010-05-01553S0011-8486(10)X0003-6Extracts168168