Dental Industry Trends Summary May 19-25

New Hope for Saving Natural Teeth

A 20-year study found that regenerative procedures may protect your natural teeth, minimizing the need for tooth extractions. Traditionally, severe periodontal disease can lead to bone and tissue deterioration around teeth, requiring an extraction followed by dental implants or bridges. However, researchers have discovered that surgical regenerative procedures, which rebuild lost bone and tissue, can successfully preserve a patient’s natural teeth. The study found that patients who received the regeneration procedures had similar success rates compared to those with implants. For otherwise healthy individuals, these procedures offer a more cost-effective alternative while maintaining their natural teeth.

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Aches and Pains Tied to Oral Health

Researchers from the University of Sydney conducted a study and discovered a significant connection between poor oral health and pain in women, specifically body pain and migraines. Participants with the worst oral health of the group showed a 60% higher risk of reporting moderate-to-severe body pain and 49% increased chance of migraines compared to those with good oral health. Four oral microbes correlated strongly with bodily pain, while two others were linked to migraines. This study highlights the importance of understanding oral health's role in overall well-being and suggests that medical professionals should consider oral indicators when treating patients with chronic pain.

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