Tooth Patch May Aid Whitening

Written by Dentistry TodayThursday, 27 September 2012 12:21



A tooth patch may be just what many people are looking for to improve their smile.

Japanese scientists have come up with a tooth patch that could be applied to make one’s teeth whiter. The patch could also aid people that suffer from any type of tooth sensitivity.

The sheet, which is just 0.004 mm, is made of hydroxyapatite, the main mineral in tooth enamel.

To formulate the patch, lasers were pointed at compressed blocks of the mineral in a vacuum to make individual particles pop out. The particles then fell onto a separate block of salt. This was later heated to crystallize the components.

After the salt cube was dissolved in water, the dried tooth patch was left.

The patch is also invisible, so people wouldn’t notice it when it’s in the mouth. The patch, however, can take an extensive period time of time—possibly a full day—to stick to the teeth in an optimal fashion.









The patch won’t be ready for usage for a while, however. It will be at least three years before the patch could even be used for cosmetic purposes.

People Prefer Perfect Smile Over Perfect Body

Written by Dentistry TodayThursday, 27 September 2012 12:41



People would rather have a great smile than be in great shape.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry conducted a study regarding this issue and found an overwhelming majority opted for the smile.

There were 80 percent of American adults who said they would spend money to fix a flaw due to aging. Among these people, 62 percent said they would choose to improve the quality of their teeth while 48 percent stated that they would devote the money toward weight loss.

About 45 percent of Americans think a smile can successfully battle the effects of aging. The second choice for defying age was a person’s eyes, and 34 percent of the people believed that option. Only 10 percent of the people surveyed thought body shape could defy age, while 6 percent said hair and 5 percent said legs.

The study also showed that 54 percent of Americans older 50 thought that a smile could thwart the effects of aging. Just 38 percent of people ages 18 to 29 believe a smile can have that impact.

“A great smile is always in style, and these results prove it,” AACD President Dr. Ron Goodlin said. “Cosmetic dental professionals can rest assured that their services will be needed.”









The research for the study was done through Kelton Global and was scheduled in September, which is Healthy Aging Month. There were 1,018 adults who were 18 and older that took part in the study.

West Virginia Awards Grant to Raise Number of In-State Dentists

Written by Dentistry TodayMonday, 01 October 2012 08:49



West Virginia is doing its best to increase the number of dentists in the state.

West Virginia University’s School of Dentistry recently awarded a $1.5 million grant to the state. The goal is to entice the school’s graduates to practice dentistry in the state.

The grant will aid in the funding for loan repayment programs for West Virginia students who end up staying in state.

West Virginia already has a shortage of dentists. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that 35 percent of the state dental workforce is likely to retire during the next 10 years. Programs like this are the best way to add an influx of dentists.

Students at WVU had previously lobbied legislators for some type of loan repayment program.