Developments in Dentistry

Research methods are always adapting and we are always discovering new things. Dentistry is constantly adjusting to new research that betters the patient’s experience. Here are some examples of the latest changes.

High-tech X-rays
Digitized x-rays have replaced traditional radiographs as they are much faster and efficient. Before patients would have to hold film in their mouths for a long period of time whereas now an image is captured by an electrical sensor or phosphor plate being placed in the mouth. There is less radiation as the sensor and plates are more sensitive to x-rays. The image can be scanned to a computer and stored which allows dentists to compare x-ray images from previous appointments. These type of x-rays are useful for finding cavities, seeing the bone below the teeth, check implant placements and see if root canals have been performed correctly. 

Use of lasers
Lasers are more frequently being used in the detection and removal of cavities. This means there is an earlier detection of cavities. Lasers can determine if decay is present so the dentist can either watch it and compare it to the next visit or have a filling. 

Thinner veneers
Previously dentists would have to reduce the tooth to fit a veneer but the development of thinner veneers mean more of the tooth structure can be retained as the tooth does not have to be as drastically reduced.

Better materials
White composite, glass ionomer and porcelain fillings are being used more frequently for their more aesthetic look. The bonding material now used is a resin which is more durable and has a wide variety of shades in order to match the tooth’s natural colour.

CAD/CAM technology
Allows dental team to make precise shapes and sizes of dental restorations to make them better fitted. Also allows them to be made more efficiently.

Implants
In the past implants frequently failed whereas now implants can last about 15+ years. 

“Bioactive” glass
A type of crushed glass that can interact with the body. Research has shown the bacteria in the mouth that cause cavities are averse to this glass and less like to build up on fillings. It is called “bioactive” as the body is aware of its presence and can react to it. It is hard and stiff so will be a long lasting filling material.

Antibiotics can progress oral infections
Research has shown that antibiotics can kill good bacteria that helps fight off infections.

Stem calls from baby teeth can grow living dental tissue
Research has shown that the use of the patients own stem cells being extracted from healthy baby teeth can be used to reproduce in a lab to implant in injured teeth. The results have shown patients with this treatment had healthier root development, thicker dentine and blood flow increased. The stem cells were able to regenerate components of dental pulp, connective tissue and blood vessels. However, this method is not possible in adult patients who have lost all their baby teeth.

Nanoparticle technology for detecting and treating oral plaque
Researchers have developed a plaque detection probe that detects specific harmful bacteria and by altering the chemical composition of the probe it can be used to destroy the bacteria. Probe is made up of nanoparticles for a drug free approach. Means less antibiotics would need to be used so a lower risk of antibiotic resistance.

Thank you for reading!

Written by Lizzie Nash

Sources
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/09/180926082539.htm
https://www.yourdentistryguide.com/advances/
http://www.dentalproductsreport.com/dental/article/composite-restorations-future-may-be-made-glass
https://www.allsmilesdentist.com/recent-advancements-dental-treatment/
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/advances-in-dental-care-whats-new-at-the-dentist#2
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/09/180911132046.htm
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/08/180817125359.htm

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