Notes on a 'silent disease'
Article Abstract:
Osteoporosis is a serious and common health problem among older adults that causes not just the well-known complications of fractures but dental problems as well. Osteoporosis means porous bone, bone that is fragile and prone to being resorbed by the body. Bone is a living tissue constantly in the process of being formed and resorbed. With increasing age, diet inadequate in calcium, lack of weight-bearing exercise, and lack of estrogen, bone destructive processes outstrip bone formation processes. Predisposing factors are female sex, white or Asian race, fair skin, small frame, family history of osteoporosis, smoking, excessive alcohol and caffeine intake, and long-term use of certain medications. Preventative measures include eating foods high in calcium, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, exercise, hormone replacement therapy in women, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol intake. Some medications are already being used to treat osteoporosis and others are under investigation.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1996
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Benefit-to-risk ratio: the challenge of antibiotic drug resistance
Article Abstract:
The use of antibiotics illustrates the necessity of determining the benefit-to-risk ratio. The bacterium Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for many infections because it can grow normally on skin and mucous membranes. The introduction of penicillin in the 1940's made a significant impact on mortality, but the bacterium quickly became resistant. In the 1970's resistance to methicillin was described and in 1997, resistance to vancomycin was described. The widespread use of antibiotics has led to the survival of bacteria that are naturally resistant to the drugs.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1997
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Biofilms, microbial ecology and Antoni van Leeuwenhoek
Article Abstract:
Biofilms are partly responsible for tooth decay and periodontal disease. Biofilms are colonies of bacteria that form whenever there is plentiful food. They form on the surfaces of teeth as well as other organs. The bacteria can release chemicals that erode tooth enamel. Fluoride and antibiotic mouthwashes can be effective in clearing up biofilms. Phenolic and chlorhexidine mouthwashes are also effective. Tooth sealants can also protect the tooth from bacterial decay.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1997
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