NICE Should Change Antibiotic Guidelines for Dental Patients, Study Shows

New research has revealed the impact a change in US guidelines had on the prescribing of antibiotic prophylaxis (AP) to prevent a life-threatening heart condition infective endocarditis (IE) in patients before undergoing invasive dental treatment. The findings of the international research provide further evidence that the UK’s National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) … Read more

Removing Symptom-Free Wisdom Teeth Isn’t Always Necessary

Although removal of wisdom teeth is very common, there are no studies that show a benefit to taking them out when they are not causing pain or other problems, according to a new review of existing research. Third molars, or so-called wisdom teeth, generally emerge fully or partially between ages 17 and 26 into limited … Read more

Dentists’ Access to Anesthesia Is Being Examined in Texas After Multiple Concerned Reports

The Anesthesia Committee with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners is meeting Friday afternoon to discuss possible changes when it comes to the permitting process for dentists who offer anesthesia for dental procedures. This committee only meets on an as needed basis. Earlier this year KXAN reported the Sunset Commission found 112 statewide complaints … Read more

Keys to Predictable Socket Grafting – Part 1

To satisfy the ideal goals of implant dentistry in a predictable manner, hard and soft tissues should present in ideal volumes and quality. The alveolar process is affected so often after tooth loss that socket grafting is usually indicated to achieve optimal results. Reasons for socket grafting include an improved esthetic appearance particularly in the anterior alveolar ridge, preservation of remaining … Read more

Syringe cover takes the fear out of pediatric local anesthesia

By Rob Goszkowski – Dr.Bicuspid.com April 21, 2011 — Getting children to sit through a dental procedure is a challenge most practitioners inevitably face. The mere mention of the word “needle” can prompt anxiety and panic in young patients, making a routine dental procedure anything but. http://www.columbia.edu/itc/hs/dental/d7710/client_edit/LAExtRD.pdfRead more Related articles Uh-Oh: Robots Now Administering Anesthesia … Read more

Go green, save mold…. Most patients don’t need antibiotics before dental procedures to prevent infective endocarditis

American Heart Association scientific statement DALLAS, April 20 – Taking a precautionary antibiotic before a trip to the dentist isn’t necessary for most people, and in fact, might create more harm than good, according to updated recommendations from the American Heart Association. The guidelines, published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association,are based on a … Read more