The statistics on oral cancer do not make very comfortable reading. The number of cases diagnosed annually is increasing whilst the survival rate (50%) has not improved for the last few decades. In Europe over 100,000 cases are diagnosed each year and in the UK alone over 1500 people each year die from this condition. The increases in the disease that we have seen are not entirely attributable … [Read more...]
Nothing to fear from Root Fillings
One of the re-occurring arguments against saving infected teeth is that the infection from the tooth may, in the long-term lead to problems else where in the body. This argument has been around since the 1930's and is often called the "focal point infection" debate. When a tooth has an infection it can be treated with a root canal filling (endodontics), which in over 90% of cases will lead to the … [Read more...]
A very scary tale
A recent article in the British Dental Journal (BDJ 2007) highlighted an alarming case of how poor dental care lead to a near fatal incident. The case involved a 25-year-old woman living in London who experienced severe toothache over a period of several weeks, but was unable to get an adequate diagnosis or treatment for her condition. During the time of her extreme pain she visited 3 separate … [Read more...]
Fluoride gel and decay prevention
An extensive review of over seventy systematic review articles on "fluoride application to prevent decay" was recently completed by the American Dental Association. The outcome of this review is that there is the strongest possible evidence to support the use of topical fluoride gel application every 6 months by the dentist or hygienist for all children, under the age of 18years, who are at risk … [Read more...]
Gum Disease and your baby’s birth weight
A recent systematic review of all available information on the possible affects of active gum disease in pregnant mothers has come up with some interesting findings. Five studies conducted over the past 40 years that have looked at the possible link between active gum disease and either preterm birth (PTB) or preterm low birthweight (PLBW) all showed an increased risk. The increased risk was … [Read more...]