Researchers at the University of Washington have designed a convenient and natural product that uses proteins to rebuild tooth enamel and treat dental cavities. "Remineralization guided by peptides is a healthy alternative to current dental health care," said lead author Mehmet Sarikaya, professor of materials science and engineering at the university.
No commentsRead more: Peptide-based biogenic dental product may cure cavities
Too few women’ are aware of the relationship between their oral health and pregnancy. The British Society of Periodontology (BSP) is looking to address this anomaly and has placed on their website a range of educational material to help patients understand the symptoms and risks associated with periodontal disease during pregnancy.
Read more: BSP issues advice on periodontal disease and pregnancy
A key milestone in improving the oral health of children and young people in England has been reached with the publication of “Commissioning Guide for Dental Specialties – Paediatric Dentistry.” The guide outlines how paediatric dental services will be commissioned at local level and outlines the need to develop Managed Clinical Networks as part of this process.
Read more: Guide to commissioning of paediatric dentistry services released
The introduction of a levy on drinks with high sugar content has been welcomed across the profession, with the BDA describing it as ‘an excellent first step’. However some commentators in the media have questioned the policy. Drinks containing more than 8g of sugar per 100ml, will be taxed at 24p per litre, with those above 5g per 100ml charged an 18p levy.
Read more: Welcome from the profession for the sugar drinks levy
Following a Times article: Stealth dentistry charges bring in millions, the BDA said that the Government was ‘profiting’ from NHS charges ‘at hundreds of dental practices’. They have estimated that the Government will generate over £40 million in ‘profits’ by the time of the next general election from an ‘ever growing number of NHS practices’..
Read more: Government is ‘profiting’ from patients’ charges says BDA
Brexit is being blamed for a fall in the number of NHS dentists working in Scotland. Dentists there are reporting how the uncertainty created by the 2016 vote to leave the EU is leaving them struggling to fill vacancies. One in 10 of Scotland’s dentists are from the EU and fears are growing that many are turning their back on working here.