1. The indications for third-molar extractions
The article “the indications for third molar extractions” is published in Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) mentioning the clinical indications of the extractions of a third molar (wisdom tooth). The factors that can lead to extractions are when the third molars are related to pain, frequent occurrence of infection including pericoronitis, as well as development of abscess. Non-restorable wisdom teeth with caries and carious teeth that causes the caries of other second molars need to be extracted. Also, third molars that make an individual susceptible to periodontal disease where there is formation of deep pockets behind the second molars are to be considered by extraction because of a risk of causing long term damage. Any indication of pathology like cysts, tumors, or large radiolucent lesions also leads to the extraction. Third molars that cause interference with normal occlusion, orthodontic treatment, or planning of prosthetics may also require removal as some of them may be malpositioned or impacted.
Apart from it during any medical interventions such as chemotherapy, organ transplantation, radiation, or surgery of the jaw, the prophylactic removal can be recommended to avoid complications in the future. However, in asymptomatic and disease-free impacted third molars, the article proposes the conservative treatment method that is active monitoring, instead of immediate extraction. The decisions ought to be arrived at based on the patient age, development of the roots, surgical risk and the availability of oral hygiene. Finally, the article highlights that the management of third molars is a matter of individualization of considering the possible benefits of extractions compared to the surgical risks and influenced by up-to-date clinical data and patient-related factors.
2. A New Look at Erosive Tooth Wear in Elderly People
This research article by David Bartlett entitled ‘A New Look at Erosive Tooth Wear in Elderly People’ is published in The Journal of the American Dental Association. The article shows the increased interest in the subject of erosive tooth wear among the aged. Some factors that are not given importance in this age may include both intrinsic and extrinsic aspects, such as gastric acid due to reflux and acidic foods and beverages. The overall effects of erosion are significant, in the increasing age of people and the ability to preserve much more of their original teeth. Bartlett points out that the failure to initiate early treatment such as wear can cause advance to a severe loss of enamel and dentin that results in expensive and extensive restorative procedures. In addition to it, the author recommends early diagnosis and management that is not aggressive, such as exposure to as little acid as possible, use of fluoride-containing products and application of dentin-bonding agents to preserve as much tooth structure as possible. The significance of determining the causes and dealing with them as a method of discontinuing the further developments is an important step towards preservation of tooth in elderly. In conclusion, prophylactic, patient-specific treatment plan to preserve oral functioning and comfort among the elderly patients.
