1/4. Tissue necrosis after subgingival irrigation with fluoride solution.Irrigation of periodontal pockets with fluoride solution after scaling and root planing is occasionally recommended to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria in the periodontal pocket. At the same time, irrigation enables mechanical removal of loosely adhering plaque and debris. Due to its toxicity, fluoride solution deposited in the periodontium may lead to tissue damage. We report in this paper, a case of extensive periodontal tissue necrosis and permanent loss of alveolar bone after irrigation of periodontal pockets with stannous fluoride solution. The literature on the toxic effects of fluoride on the local tissues is briefly reviewed and arguments for a re-evaluation of the use of stannous fluoride for pocket irrigation are provided. ( info) |
2/4. Syndromes with salivary dysfunction predispose to tooth wear: case reports of congenital dysfunction of major salivary glands, Prader-Willi, congenital rubella, and Sjogren's syndromes.Four cases-of congenital dysfunction of the major salivary glands as well as of Prader-Willi, congenital rubella, and Sjogren's syndromes-were identified in a series of 500 patients referred for excessive tooth wear. Although there was evidence of consumption of highly acidic drinks, some occlusal parafunction, and unacceptable toothbrushing habits, salivary dysfunction was the salient factor predisposing a patient to tooth wear in these syndromal cases. The 500 subjects have been characterized either as having medical conditions and medications that predispose them to xerostomia or lifestyles in which workplace- and sports-related dehydration lead to reduced salivary flow. Normal salivation, by buffering capacity, clearance by swallowing, pellicle formation, and capacity for remineralization of demineralized enamel, protects the teeth from extrinsic and intrinsic acids that initiate dental erosion. Thus, the syndromes, unrelated in many respects, underline the importance of normal salivation in the protection of teeth against tooth wear by erosion, attrition, and abrasion. ( info) |
3/4. Peripheral ossifying fibroma in a child: report of case.A typical peripheral ossifying fibroma in the anterior maxilla of an 11-year-old boy is presented. The importance of differential diagnosis and proper treatment for prevention of recurrence is discussed. ( info) |
4/4. Intensive swimming: can it affect your patients' smiles?athletes who swim intensively, such as those who swim laps more than six hours a week, may develop unusual yellowish brown or dark brown stains on their teeth. The authors hypothesize that long-term contact of the teeth with swimming pool water, as well as the mixture of oral fluids with swimming pool water, leads to the formation of these deposits. The authors report two cases of development of such stains. ( info) |