Dental caries is unfortunately still a common problem among children worldwide. Cochrane reviews have shown the effectiveness of pit and fissure sealants (Hiiri et al 2009) and fluoride varnishes (Marinho et al 2002) . While other reviews have found silver diamine fluoride (SDF) to be effective (Rosenblatt et al 2009). The aim of this trial [read the full story…]
Limited evidence finds modest benefit in favour of antivirals for the prevention of cold sores
Recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) is a common infection of the lip. The usual cause is the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) although HSV-2 is been increasingly implicated. It is estimated that 90% of the population have been exposed to HSV-1. 20-30% of those infected experience outbreaks of small blisters or sores on or [read the full story…]
Chlorhexidine is not effective in preventing coronal caries
While dental caries has a significant impact on adults much of the research on the prevention of this common disease is focussed on children. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that a chlorhexidine (CHX) coating, compared with a placebo coating, reduces dental caries increment in at-risk adults over a period of [read the full story…]
Fluoride varnish can be used as an effective caries preventive measure for high-caries-risk children
We recently reported on a other fluoride varnish study in a similar age group conducted in the UK. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of 5% sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish application in reducing caries increments in the permanent dentition of rural Brazilian school children over the course of 12 months. Children [read the full story…]
Fluoride supplements have a preventive effect on caries in permanent teeth
In the past 30 years most developed countries have seen a decrease in the prevalence and severity of dental caries in children, with most disease now found in children often characterised by a low socioeconomic status. The aim of this Cochrane review was to evaluate the efficacy of fluoride supplements for preventing dental caries in [read the full story…]
People who brush and floss regularly have less gum bleeding compared to toothbrushing alone
The daily use of dental floss in addition to toothbrushing is frequently recommended for the prevention of caries and periodontal diseases. The aim of this Cochrane review was to assess the effects of flossing in addition to toothbrushing, as compared with toothbrushing alone, in the management of periodontal diseases and dental caries in adults. A [read the full story…]
Mouth care and ventilator-associated pneumonia
For critically ill patients receiving mechanical ventilation, ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a life threatening condition. Incidence rates varies and mortality rates can be as high as 50% . The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects brushing teeth twice daily with purified water on VAP rates and oral health or hygiene in postneurosurgical, [read the full story…]
MI Paste Plus helped prevent the development of new white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment
The aim of this trial was to determine the effectiveness of a new product, MI Paste Plus (GC America, Alsip, Ill), in the prevention or reduction of white spot lesions in orthodontic patients. 60 patients aged 12 and over who were undergoing routine orthodontic treatment were randomized to receive either M1 paste (n=26) or placebo [read the full story…]
New systematic review protocols for periodontal disease and caries prevention
Two new systematic review protocols have been published in the Cochrane Library recently. This indicates research in progress, of course, and we would not expect results to be published for some time. However, people who are investigating these topic areas may like to know that a review is under way. The full text of each [read the full story…]
Success of obesity interventions in people with learning disabilities needs primary carer involvement
Obesity is a major health concern in adults with learning disabilities. This study set out to evaluate the impact of a locally delivered NHS health promotion programme. 191 adults with learning disabilities took part in the evaluation and were screened and monitored over a 2-year period with attendance rates and body mass index (BMI) used [read the full story…]