What Is Gingivitis? What Causes Gingivitis?
Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums (gingiva). It commonly occurs because of films of bacteria that accumulate on the teeth - plaque; this type is called plaque-induced gingivitis. Gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is more serious and can eventually lead to loss of teeth. A patient with gingivitis will have red and puffy gums, and they will most likely bleed when they brush their teeth. Generally, gingivitis resolves with good oral hygiene - longer and more frequent brushing, as well as flossing.
Paper Clips For Root Canals Lands Dentist In Jail
When dentists do a root canal they are supposed to use steel posts, and definitely not paper clips. A dentist from Massachusetts has just received a 1-year prison sentence at the Bristol County House of Correction, for using paper clips for just such procedures - he had faced charges of assault and battery, as well as defrauding Medicaid to the tune of $130, 000, and intimidating a witness. Dr. Michael Clair, according to prosecutors, in an effort to reduce costs, would use parts of paper clips for root canals.
Genetic Variation Revealed That Raises A Risk Linked To Bisphosphonates
Researchers at the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine have identified a genetic variation that raises the risk of developing serious necrotic jaw bone lesions in patients who take bisphosphonates, a common class of osteoclastic inhibitors. The discovery paves the way for a genetic screening test to determine who can safely take these drugs. The study appears in the online version of the journal The Oncologist. Oral bisphosphonates are currently taken by some 3 million women in the United States for the prevention or treatment of osteoporosis.