It has been known for some time that stem cells can be used to replace or repair damaged tissues. There may indeed come a day when dentist utilises these modern powerhouses to treat ailments and even to grow new teeth. What are some recent advancements worth noting?

-Stem cells are present in all adult teeth to a certain extent.

- These cells may be able to grow an entirely new tooth.

- Laboratory tests using animals have already provided promising results. Human clinical trials are in the near future.
"The big question with all of these studies is to reproduce the results in humans."
Read more:
http://www.impactlab.net/2017/08/11/will-stem-cells-replace-dental-implants/

Although no direct link has been proven between gum disease (periodontitis) and Alzheimer’s, researchers now believe there is a relationship between the two. Researchers estimate that people with long-term chronic gum disease are 70% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those with healthy teeth and gums.
Regardless of the possible risk of Alzheimer’s, it is best to maintain a proper dental health regime and visit the dentist regularly.
Untreated periodontitis can also cause:
- Inflamed and bleeding gums
- Damage to teeth
- Possible bone loss
The research highlights “the need to prevent progression of periodontal disease” and further information can be found at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/long-term-gum-disease-linked-to-alzheimers-disease_us_59974d9de4b0a2608a6c768a.

A team of researchers have studied mice with diabetes and found an association between changes in bacteria in the mouth and the development of gum disease.
Key takeaways:
- This study suggests that diabetes may lead to changes in the bacteria in the mouth.
- These changes can lead to gum disease and jaw bone loss.
- Controlling blood sugar will help prevent these dental problems.
See your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams to prevent these problems.
Read the full story here: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/318447.php

The oral cancer screening process is simple. During teeth checkup, your dentist will check the lips, tongue, throat and neck for symptoms. So what is the right age to start screenings?
Key takeaways:
- At 18, if you have never smoked and don't have any symptoms.
- If you are a smoker or have any of the symptoms, start screenings the day you start smoking.
- Symptoms include; recurring sore throats, white and red patches on gums and tongue and incessant mouth sores.
Most oral cancer patients are smokers.
Learn more at:
http://yourdentalhealthresource.com/from-what-age-should-i-get-screened-for-oral-cancer/

Teeth grinding affects adults and people in their teens alike. Here's an overview of the most common causes.
Key takeaways:
- Researchers have found that teenagers who are bullied are four times more likely to grind their teeth

- Sleep disorders and anxiety problems are common triggers of teeth grinding

- Smoking and drinking are also associated with this habit
Because teeth grinding can cause serious dental problems, it's important to seek treatment from your family dentist as soon as possible.
Read the full story here: http://www.bbc.com/news/health-40593028

It's never a bad to revisit some of the basics of dental health. Here are three useful tips:

Key takeaways:

- Do brush and floss your teeth after meals and clean your tongue at least once a day
- Don't forget to rinse your mouth after eating or drinking anything sugary, and don't use your teeth as if they were tools
- Do schedule an appointment with the dentist twice a year
When it comes to dental heath, a little effort goes a long way.
Read the full story here: http://www.phillymag.com/be-well-philly/2017/05/25/common-mistakes-teeth/

Scientists have found that genetics play an important role in healthy teeth and gums. Some people may be at a slight genetic disadvantage in their tendency to develop gum disease and other dental problems. Additional takeaway points include:

- Genetics influence the size and shape of the teeth.
- The likelihood of developing cavities can also be inherited.
- Practising proper oral hygiene is the best way to avoid such issues.
Gum disease isn’t left out of the cards when it comes to genetics.

Read more:
http://yourdentalhealthresource.com/are-genetics-to-blame-for-poor-dental-health/

Dry socket is an inflammatory condition that can develop after teeth extraction, especially after wisdom tooth removal. Here are three ways of avoiding this condition.

Key takeaways:

- Touching or poking the area can knock the blood clot loose and cause infection
- Hot and carbonated drinks can also affect the wound's healing process
- Sucking motions (smoking, drinking through a straw) are best avoided until the wound has healed

You can get more details and personalised instructions from your dentist.

Read the full story here: https://consumer.healthday.com/dental-and-oral-information-9/misc-dental-problem-news-174/after-wisdom-tooth-removal-watch-out-for-dry-socket-721946.html

To many people, anti-bacterial toothpaste is as a must when it comes to keeping their teeth clean and healthy. But is antibacterial mouthwash a good idea?

Key takeaways:

- Many toothpaste and mouthwash products contain triclosan, a chemical agent with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
- Mouth bacteria live in the tongue, so brushing the teeth with an anti-bacterial toothpaste has little to no effect on those bacteria.
- Antiseptic mouthwashes can strip the mouth off good bacteria and interfere with the body's production of natural defense against disease-causing inflammation.

Should you use mouthwash that contains triclosan? As usual, your dentist can offer advice on the best ways of maintaining good oral health.

Read the full story here: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/antibacterial-toothpaste-harmful-helpful-or-harmless.html

Many dentists are now choosing to prescribe non-addictive drugs following wisdom teeth extraction. Evidence suggests that young people are susceptible to opioid addiction. In some cases this has led to drug abuse.

Key takeaways

- Discuss pain relief options with your dentist if you are having surgery.

- Non addictive pain relief is available and has anti-inflammatory properties.

- Young people can become addicted to very small doses of drugs containing opioids

Good dentists are happy to discuss options for pain relief.

"Opioids aren?t the only way to control the pain of a wisdom tooth extraction."

Article:

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/10/opinion/dentists-opioids-addiction-.html