Bacteria and Orthodontic Retainers

Researchers in the United Kingdom investigated whether orthodontic retainers could be resevoirs for opportunistic pathogens. They found 50% of the retainers tested harbored microscopic pathogens. Candida species were found on 66.7% of the retainers and Staphylococcus species were found on 50% of the retainers. The study concludes that orthodontic retainers can be a source of cross, self-, and re-infection for opportunistic pathogens. Therefore, make sure your teeth are brushed and flossed well before putting the retainers in your mouth. Then when the retainers are removed, make sure that the retainers are brushed well to remove any new bacteria. This will help to prevent further recontamination.

Diet, Exercise, and Immune Function Among People with Obesity

Scientist at the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine concluded that a healthy diet and moderate daily exercise may reverse immune system problems , which make it more difficult to fight infection, that are common among people with obesity. The study included four groups of mice, lean mice on a standard diet, obese mice on a high-fat diet, obese mice on a high-fat diet that performed moderate daily exercise for 1 month, and obese mice that performed moderate daily exercise and a standard diet for 1 month. The mice who exercised daily and consumed a standard diet experienced significantly restored immune function. Their cytokines were repaired and their ability to fight gingivitis (measured by bone loss) improved. Researchers emphasized the need to address both diet and exercise in order to improve immune function among people with obesity

Denture Patients Risk Toxic Levels of Zinc

Dentures that fit poorly may create a health hazard among those who overuse dental adhesives to keep the prosthesis in place. An article published in General Dentistry explains that zinc ingested at toxic levels can trigger nausea, stomachache and mouth irritation. We can play an important role in protecting patients against excessive zinc intake. It is recommended to encourage patients to be evaluated every 6 months to ensure dentures fit properly and explain to patients it may be necessary for the dentist to adjust the denture, reline it, or possibly remake the prosthesis. Furthermore, it is important to evaluate keratinized tissue, erythematous tissue, callous formation on the ridges as signs that should lead us to question the proper fit of the denture or prosthesis. Clinicians should remember to ask patients about a possible history of digestive-related irregularities.