Objectives: Tooth movement is caused by the application of force. In short, applied force strains structures present in the PDL space – cells, ligaments, blood vessels. Cells in the PDL are damaged by extension and by diminished oxygen supply due to compression of blood vessels. Compounds released from damaged or dead cells trigger an innate inflammatory response. One of the biomarkers of that response is increased formation of extracellular fluid (edema), specifically gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). Our goal is to monitor changes of GCF flow during the orthodontic treatment with Invisalign.

Various systematic reviews and original articles were studied and analyzed to identify external cervical root resorption, its pathogenesis, and potential predisposing factors. Although several potential aetiological factors have been associated with the development and progression of ECR, the etiology, and pathogenesis of ECR are still poorly understood and as a result, many of these resorptive defects are misdiagnosed and mismanaged.

The objective of this project is to address potential sources of occupational acid tooth erosion and identify effective supportive therapies for patients who suffer from it. Specifically in this case I identified the fumes from chromic acid used in welding shops to clean metal as the main etiologic factor in my patient’s acid tooth erosion. I came to this conclusion by conducting a thorough history as well as a diet analysis. When this proved inconclusive, I reviewed the patient’s lifestyle habits including occupation and was able to find research on welders experiencing acid tooth erosion. I implemented supportive therapy for this patient through patient education, changing work habits (wearing a proper respirator at all times), chewing pH neutralizing xylitol gum at work, restoring eroded/missing dentition, and use of a nighttime occlusal appliance. Although difficult to measure over a short period, the patient has since experienced less xerostomia, lower incidence of caries and tooth fracturing due to acid erosion. The patient has also shared some of the supportive strategies with his fellow co-workers at the welding shop who did not know that chromic acid gas inhalation could have such an affect on their oral health. It is very important to conduct a thorough history with patients experiencing acid tooth erosion because it may be coming from the source we least expect it to. If we can intervene early, we can help prevent its progression and improve the oral health status of the patients affected by it.

Disproportionate effort by individuals participating in group projects has the potential to diminish the beneficial lessons derived from working in a team, such as collaborative and leadership skills, conflict resolution, creativity, and more. This dilemma has been further exacerbated by …

The Efficacy of Peer Assessment on Virtual Collaborative Learning Experiences in Dental Education Read more ›

The Special Smiles discipline of Healthy Athletes provides comprehensive oral health care information, including offering free dental screenings and instructions on correct brushing and flossing techniques to participating Special Olympics athletes.  COVID-19 forced Special Olympics to cancel its in-person Healthy …

Special Olympics Special Smiles: Virtual Special Smiles Self-Assessment Program and Poll (VSSSAPP) Read more ›