.png)
This week,
we learn about a new laser that could eliminate the use of drills in the dental
office, discuss the need for better dental care for older Americans, and learn
just how long a tooth can last. Join the conversation on Twitter using
#FridayDentalDL.
The
FDA approved a new laser, created by a Massachusetts-based dental technology company
that could eliminate the use of needles and drills in common dental procedures
such as fillings and shaving teeth to be fitted for crowns. The creator says
that the laser eliminates the “fear factor” for patients, allowing them to
better provide preventive dentistry.
A 2013 study found that 23
percent of older adults have not seen a dental provider in five years and 70
percent do not have dental insurance. Of those seniors without dental
insurance, 70 percent could not pay for a major dental procedure. Oral Health
America’s Wisdom Tooth
Project
was created to advocate for the oral health of older Americans and educate them
on the importance of good oral health. Read more about DentaQuest CEO Fay
Donohue’s discussion with Oral Health America on the issue of financing oral
health care for older Americans here.
Dental disease is
the most common chronic childhood disease, and is five times more common than
asthma. This Q&A with a pediatric dentist at the University of Maryland
provides information for parents and caregivers about proper oral hygiene for
children and what to expect at dental checkups. For more tips on caringfor your
child’s teeth, check out our Oral Health Library and our recent Q&A with Dr.
Brian Novy
on the best toothpaste for your teeth,
One curious reader asked
and the New York Times answered:
teeth can survive for many millennia. For example, in 1994, an expedition in Ethiopia
found a tooth from a pre-human species that dated back 4.4 million years. The
writer reports that the heavy mineralization and dense crystalline structure of
tooth enamel make teethmore durable than bones.Make sure you are caring for
your pearly whites- who knows where they’ll be in 4 million years!
Check out this
University of North Georgia student rapping about good oral hygiene to the tune
of “Ice Ice Baby.” He even reminds listeners to stay away from sugary treats.
Our only recommendation: instead of telling listeners to brush “forcefully,” we
suggest that they brush gently so that they do not
damage their gums.