Identifying children at greatest risk of caries in order to optimize preventive activity has been a goal of the dental profession for many a long year and a number of reviews of potential risk factors have been conducted ( see Dental Elf 10th Dec 2012). This study aimed to assess a number of caries risk [read the full story…]
Composite resin restorations are becoming a regular element of restorative dental care. Usually they are photo-polymerised, and polymerization protocols are considered to be one potential factor in the marginal quality of these restorations. The aim of this study was to compare the marginal quality of composite restorations employing two polymerisation protocols, namely regular versus high [read the full story…]
White spot lesions (enamel decalcification) is an adverse effect of orthodontic treatment and may be present in up to 50% of patients following removal of fixed appliances. Topical fluorides have been shown to reduce decalcification and the use of fluoridated bonding composites and elastomerics have also been tested. The aim of this study was to [read the full story…]
Varnishes have been is use as a delivery system for topical fluoride since the 1960s. Their effectiveness was highlighted to a greater extent following the publication of the first version of this Cochrane review in 2002. Since then use of fluoride varnish has been recommended in evidence-based guidance from SIGN, the SDCEP and the American [read the full story…]
Good oral health can be achieved and maintained by compliance with preventive and curative measures and effective self-care. However, adherence to positive behaviours such as toothbrushing, interdental cleaning, smoking cessation and good dietary habits can be variable. Traditional approaches of patient education revolve around disseminating information and normative advice. Increasingly the use of motivational interviewing [read the full story…]
Fluoridated salt has for many years been proposed as a vehicle for the prevention of caries. A 2010 systematic review by Yengopal et al indicated that salt fluoridation could reduce caries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of school-based and domestic distribution of fluoridated salt on caries increment in schoolchildren residing [read the full story…]
The placement of prosthetic restoration finish line is the subject of much interest and debate. The aim of this review was to assess the effect of prosthetic margin placement on caries susceptibility of abutment teeth Searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane Central Register of Database of Systematic reviews, Cochrane Central Register of [read the full story…]
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that leads to the overproduction and accumulation of mucus in the lungs, which can result in airway obstruction and life-threatening bacterial. Four risk factors related to CF are considered to increase the risk of dental caries; a 20- fold increase in intraoral Streptococcus mutans levels; gastroesophageal reflux disease [read the full story…]
The latest update of the Cochrane review on fissures sealants (Ahovuo-Saloranta et al 2013) confirmed the use of resin-based sealants as a effective method of preventing or controlling occlusal caries. The Cochrane review included 15 trials comparing glass ionomer with resin sealants and there was insufficient evidence to make any conclusions about the superiority of [read the full story…]
Regular toothbrushing with fluoride toothpaste has strong evidence for its effectiveness. Brushing at least twice a day is more effective that once a day or less and ‘Twice a day” is has been a long-standing oral health message. The aim of this qualitative study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the issues parents facing [read the full story…]
