Learning, immunology and allergic responses
Article Abstract:
Oral lesions may result from allergic responses to foods, environmental allergens, dental materials, or systemic diseases. Dentists may identify the likely causes of a plaque, swelling, ulceration, or other condition in the mouth by taking a comprehensive medical and dental history. Allergic responses result from the production and secretion of immunoglobulins that identify allergenic antigens and induce a local or systemic response to remove the antigen from the body. Desensitization therapy may reduce the severity of hay fever and other allergic responses. Avoidance of the allergy-inducing food or material may also reduce the severity and frequency of allergic reactions.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1999
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Another approach to learning about health disparities: working toward individualized therapy
Article Abstract:
The Human Genome Project may allow dentists and doctors to individualize treatments for specific patients. The project will allegedly map all human genes by the year 2003. In many cases, this will allow doctors to test patients for specific gene mutations and polymorphisms. Mutations and polymorphisms are changes in the sequence of a gene that can affect the protein produced by the gene. The protein may still function normally or it may be abnormal. If doctors know the patient has a particular polymorphism, the dysfunctional protein can be replaced.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 2000
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Entering the era of molecular dentistry
Article Abstract:
Molecular biology and human gene mapping have important implications for the practice of dentistry. Genetic defects can lead to craniofacial deformities, salivary gland abnormalities, periodontal diseases, head and neck cancers, and temporomandibular joint disease. Genetic factors contribute to the virulence of oral microbes, affecting the development and progression of gum disease. Dentists should consider the contributions of family history and genetic inheritance in assessing and treating patients.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1999
User Contributions:
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