Much has been uncovered regarding the risk factors for contracting Covid-19 and for being harshly effected by its symptoms. Yet, little is known regarding any protective factors that could possibly improve outcomes once the virus is contracted. It has been shown that vitamin D protects against acute respiratory tract infections. Calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3) plays an important role in the expression…
The final esthetic outcome and longevity of veneers depends on the tooth preparation. Excessive reduction can compromise bond strength (due to exposed dentin), cause sensitivity and limit possible treatment options for the patient in the future. The goal of veneer preparations is to be maintained within the enamel layer. Conservative tooth preparation can give high…
Amelogenesis Imperfecta (AI) disrupts the composition of enamel in teeth. The condition can be x–linked, autosomal recessive or dominant. AI can affect both permanent and primary teeth. Clinical presentations of AI can include sensitivity, surface roughness, and discoloration. Diffuse pitting or grooves are caused by defective matrix deposition, showing up as reduced enamel thickness. Most…
Extraction is the only treatment option for a hopeless tooth caused by severe periodontitis. Once extracted, we are left with the options of implant restoration, fixed prosthesis, or removable prosthesis. All of these options involve considerable investment of time and money for the patient. Intentional replantation of a tooth is a procedure most often done…
In 1917, Walter Hess first showed the presence of the MB2 canal. 90%-95% of first maxillary molars have been shown to have a MB2 canal. The identification and treatment of the MB2 canal is particularly challenging. However, leaving this canal untreated consists of an incomplete root canal treatment, which can propagate apical pathology, with the…
Patient Presentation A patient presents to the orthodontic office with a chief complaint of straightening her upper and lower front teeth. She is particularly concerned about the vertical height of the two upper central incisors, which also cause an unbalanced upper lip position at rest. Dental history Previous root canal treatment of upper left central…
According to OSHA, dental health care providers have one of the highest risks of being exposed to Covid-19. This is mainly due to the fact that a large proportion of the procedures that dentists perform are aerosol generating. These droplets can easily transmit covid-19 from person to person, directly or indirectly – by interacting with…
Periodontal disease has a strong correlation with the aging of an individual. As a person’s biological age progresses, so does risk of gum inflammation, periodontal bone loss, and transition of the oral bacteria from good to bad. Unfortunatley, other than maintaining good oral hygiene, there is not much else that can be done for this…
At-home teeth whitening systems are the new craze. A scroll through your social media shows everything from “laser activated” gels to charcoal toothpastes. With the flood of new whitening systems into the market, clinicians have to choose which system to invest in. Mode of action Hydrogen peroxide (usually 2-6%) and carbamide peroxide (10-16%) gels are…
TMJ dislocations can be horrifying for our patients. A full TMJ luxation is when the condyle translates anteriorly of the articular eminence, and does not return to the fossa. This can occur after excessive mouth opening in yawning, eating or dental procedures. Patients present with a wide-open mouth, in a protruded position (during bi-lateral luxation)…