Microplastics in the mouth
The ADA addresses AI in dentistry in response to an inquiry from HHS. Questions about microplastics in dentistry continue to pop up, and new studies tackle the best approach to flossing and pain management.
Team USA won in men's hockey, and player Jack Hughes put his teeth on the line to get the gold. He gave a nod to the dentists who are going to fix his smile.
Battling with insurance. Katherine Sislow, DDS, took to TikTok to document her struggle to get a patient's insurance claim covered.
A wheat grass shot for the pain? A new study found that wheatgrass extract might beat out NSAIDs for managing pulpitis pain.
Electric vs. string flossing. Electric flosser Flaus beat out traditional string floss for plaque removal in a new clinical study.
The ongoing dental hygiene debate. Virginia bills currently being considered would allow dental assistants to perform more work with on-the-job training and enable foreign-trained dentists to become dental hygienists.
Dental students and inventors. Dental students at the UNC Adams School of Dentistry have access to digital training that helps them get creative when delivering patient care.
ADA addresses questions about AI adoption
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reached out to the American Dental Association (ADA) to gain insight into the adoption of AI in dentistry. The ADA responded to the request with a letter highlighting both the potential benefits and the support needed to move forward and realize those benefits. In particular, the ADA emphasized the challenges facing small and rural dental practices. The ADA also focused on issues like the lack of standardization among dental records and the need for vendor accountability.
Why it matters: Dentistry, like other industries, is still learning how to use AI and working through its barriers to effective adoption. (ADA)
Microplastics in the mouth
Microplastics have been getting more attention, and researchers are looking into how toothbrushes and floss could be common culprits for microplastics shedding. The New York Times brushes up on what we know about microplastics in dentistry and tips to reduce exposure, including gentle use of dental hygiene products, regular replacement of toothbrushes and protecting toothbrushes from high temperatures.
Why it matters: Microplastics and their impact on human health are still being investigated. The approach to mitigation may evolve in dentistry. (The New York Times)
Comparing crown prep approaches
Crown prep has evolved significantly in dentistry. In an article for Dental Economics, Gordon J. Christensen, DDS, PhD, MSD, reviews different materials and approaches. Digital scanning has become the norm for crown prep. Dentists must consider this approach as well as esthetics, occlusion and lab die spacing. Dr. Christensen discusses full-strength zirconia, esthetic zirconia and other materials.
Why it matters: Dentists must weigh which approach to crown prep works best in different cases. (Dental Economics)
- A dentist, a suspended license and a name change
- European dentists could play a role in fighting cervical cancer
- Dental AI company raises $1M in funding
- Texas pediatric dentist accused of performing surgery drunk
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Dental Bite is curated and written by Carrie Pallardy and edited by Bianca Prieto
