Tooth Attrition
Patient Dropouts
Tooth Germ
Tooth, Deciduous
Tooth Crown
Tooth Root
Tooth Eruption
Tooth, Supernumerary
The Ice Man's diet as reflected by the stable nitrogen and carbon isotopic composition of his hair. (1/37)
Establishing the diets of ancient human populations is an integral component of most archaeological studies. Stable isotope analysis of well-preserved bone collagen is the most direct approach for a general assessment of paleodiet. However, this method has been limited by the scarcity of well-preserved skeletal materials for this type of destructive analysis. Hair is preserved in many burials, but is often overlooked as an alternative material for isotopic analysis. Here we report that the stable carbon and nitrogen isotope values for the hair of the 5200 year-old Ice Man indicates a primarily vegetarian diet, in agreement with his dental wear pattern. Whereas previous investigations have focused on bone collagen, the stable isotope composition of hair may prove to be a more reliable proxy for paleodiet reconstruction, particularly when skeletal remains are not well preserved and additional archaeological artifacts are unavailable. (+info)Long-term follow-up of maxillary incisors with severe apical root resorption. (2/37)
The purpose of the study was to analyse the mobility of teeth with severe orthodontically induced root resorption, at follow-up several years after active treatment, and to evaluate mobility in relation to root length and alveolar bone support. Seventy-three maxillary incisors were examined in 20 patients, 10-15 years after active treatment in 13 patients (age 24-32 years) and 5-10 years after active treatment in seven patients (age 20-25 years). All had worn fixed or removable retainers; seven still had bonded twistflex retainers. Total root length and intra-alveolar root length were measured on intra-oral radiographs. Tooth mobility was assessed clinically according to Miller's Index (0-4) and the Periotest method. Crestal alveolar bone level, periodontal pocket depth, gingival, and plaque indices, occlusal contacts during occlusion and function, and dental wear were recorded. There was a significant correlation (P < 0.05) between tooth mobility, and total root length and intra-alveolar root length. No correlation was found between tooth mobility and retention with twistflex retainers. None of the variables for assessment of periodontal status, occlusion and function were related to total root length or tooth mobility. It is concluded that there is a risk of tooth mobility in a maxillary incisor that undergoes severe root resorption during orthodontic treatment, if the remaining total root length is < or = 9 mm. The risk is less if the remaining root length is > 9 mm. Follow-up of teeth with severe orthodontically induced root resorption is indicated. (+info)Consensus-based recommendations for the diagnosis and management of dentin hypersensitivity. (3/37)
These consensus recommendations for the diagnosis and management of dentin hypersensitivity were developed by a broadly constituted board of dentists and dental hygienists drawn from general dental practice, specialist practice, academia and research from across Canada, joined by 2 international dentists with subject matter expertise. The need for consensus recommendations was made evident by the lack of clear and robust evidence in the dental literature, as well as confusion about diagnosis and management demonstrated by an educational needs assessment survey. High prevalence of the condition, underdiagnosis and widespread availability of noninvasive, efficacious and inexpensive preventive treatment further underscored the need for direction. This paper outlines the key elements of the scientific basis for the causes, diagnosis and management of dentin hypersensitivity; where such evidence is deficient, the document relies on the compound experience of the board. A simple algorithm was developed to guide clinicians through the diagnostic process and assist them in determining appropriate case management. Finally, the board makes a series of recommendations to raise awareness, to improve dental education, to develop symbols for charting, to develop an index for case assessment and for further research. (+info)Rates of anterior tooth wear in Middle Pleistocene hominins from Sima de los Huesos (Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain). (4/37)
This study presents quantitative data on the rates of anterior tooth wear in a Pleistocene human population. The data were obtained for the hominin sample of the Sima de los Huesos site in Atapuerca, Spain. The fossil record belongs to a minimum of 28 individuals of the same biological population, assigned to the species Homo heidelbergensis. We have estimated the original and the preserved crown height of the mandibular incisors (I1 and I2) of 11 individuals, whose age at death can be ascertained from the mineralization stage and tooth eruption. Results provide a range of 0.276-0.348 and 0.288-0.360 mm per year for the mean wear rate of the mandibular I1 and I2, respectively, in individuals approximately 16-18 years old. These data suggest that incisors' crowns would be totally worn out toward the fifth decade of life. Thus, we expect the life expectancy of this population to be seriously limited. These data, which could be contrasted with results obtained on hominins at other sites, could be of interest for estimating the death age of adult individuals. (+info)Oral habits of temporomandibular disorder patients with malocclusion. (5/37)
The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between oral habits and symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder in patients who had sought orthodontic treatment by analyzing their present and past history. The subjects were 57 female patients (average age: 23 years and 6 months old) who had visited the "Temporomandibular Disorder Section" in our orthodontic department. Their chief complaints were the symptom of TMJ and the abnormalities of occlusion such as maxillary protrusion, open bite, crowding, mandibular protrusion, cross bite, deep bite, edge-to-edge bite, and spacing. Their present conditions and past histories were examined and evaluated. The most typical primary symptom was joint sound (23 patients, 40.0%). The second was joint sound and pain (15 patients, 26.3%). Of the symptoms present at the time of examination, the most prevalent were joint sound and pain (20 patients, 35.1%). The 48 patients (82.8%) had significant oral habits. Unilateral chewing was seen in 35 patients (72.9%), bruxism in 27 (56.3%), abnormality of posture in 14 (29.2%), habitual crunching in 10 (20.8%) and resting the check on the hand in 4 (8.3%), respectively. When comparing the primary symptoms to those at the time of examination, the patients with unilateral chewing and bruxism tended to have more complicated symptoms. In conclusion, the TMD symptoms of the patients with notable oral habits did not change or become worse during a period of about 5 years. (+info)Dental crowding in a prehistoric population. (6/37)
The aims of this study were to investigate dental crowding from the Copper Age and examine the extent and patterns of wear. Crowding was estimated in 43 adult mandibles using Little's irregularity index. Dental wear, dental diameters, arch width and the presence of third molars were also studied as possible aetiological factors for crowding. The remains were found at the archaeological site of Roaix, located in the south of France. Radiocarbon dating indicated that the lower layer was from 2150 +/- 140 years BC (date +/- 1 standard deviation) and the upper level from 2090 +/- 140 years. The graves were estimated to contain the remains of 150 adults and 50 children. Forty-three intact mandibles were used for this study. All of the mandibles presented incisor crowding with a majority of minimal and moderate irregularities, but in seven cases there were extreme irregularities and in two canine impaction was observed. These results are in contrast with the literature where it is reported that malocclusions were rare in prehistoric populations. The findings of this study suggest that crowding may be of a genetic origin and might not be caused by excessive tooth size or changes in environmental factors (masticatory activity). (+info)Relationship between large tubules and dentin caries in human deciduous tooth. (7/37)
The purpose of this study was to elucidate the relationship between large tubules and dentin caries by using human deciduous incisors that showed various levels of attrition but no macroscopical lesions resulting from caries. The teeth were cut longitudinally in the mesio-distal direction and the exposed surfaces observed with a high-resolution field emission scanning electron microscope. The inside of each large tubule showed dense collagen fibers running parallel to its long axis and small spherical bodies of aggregated crystals, but no marked attrition. In teeth where attrition had exposed dentin at the incisal edge, oral bacteria had infiltrated the large tubules. Furthermore, in teeth with advanced attrition, it was difficult to distinguish between the large tubules and the surrounding dentin matrix, and numerous bacteria were observed in both areas. These findings support the hypothesis that large tubules play a role in the pathway of caries formation in coronal dentin when incisal dentin is exposed by attrition. This suggests that early treatment of exposed dentin surfaces might be effective in preventing dental caries. (+info)Craniofacial identification by computer-mediated superimposition. (8/37)
Mass disasters are associated with a large number of fatalities, with victims being visually unidentifiable in most cases. Dental identification, although being an important and valuable identification method, is subject to the availability and quality of antemortem and postmortem dental records. This paper presents a simple-to-use method of human identification using an antemortem photograph showing anterior teeth with superimposition onto a postmortem image using specific features of Adobe Photoshop. We present cases and discuss the benefits and difficulties of this method. (+info)Tooth attrition is a type of wear on the teeth that results from normal dental occlusal forces during biting, chewing, and grinding of food. It involves the loss of tooth structure by mechanical forces and is typically seen as a flattening or reduction in the vertical height of the crowns of teeth.
Attrition differs from other types of tooth wear such as abrasion (which is caused by external factors like toothbrush bristles, toothpaste, or habitual pen/pencil biting), erosion (which is caused by chemical dissolution of tooth structure due to acid exposure), and abfraction (which is caused by flexural forces leading to cervical lesions).
While some degree of attrition is considered a normal part of the aging process, excessive attrition can lead to dental sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and even affect the functionality of the teeth and overall oral health. Dental professionals may recommend various treatments such as fillings, crowns, or even orthodontic interventions to manage the consequences of severe tooth attrition.
A tooth is a hard, calcified structure found in the jaws (upper and lower) of many vertebrates and used for biting and chewing food. In humans, a typical tooth has a crown, one or more roots, and three layers: the enamel (the outermost layer, hardest substance in the body), the dentin (the layer beneath the enamel), and the pulp (the innermost layer, containing nerves and blood vessels). Teeth are essential for proper nutrition, speech, and aesthetics. There are different types of teeth, including incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, each designed for specific functions in the mouth.
"Patient dropouts" is a term used in clinical research and medical settings to refer to participants who withdraw or discontinue their participation in a treatment plan, clinical trial, or study before its completion. The reasons for patient dropouts can vary widely and may include factors such as adverse effects of the treatment, lack of efficacy, financial constraints, relocation, loss of interest, or personal reasons. High patient dropout rates can impact the validity and generalizability of research findings, making it challenging to assess the long-term safety and effectiveness of a particular intervention or treatment. Therefore, understanding and addressing the factors that contribute to patient dropouts is an important consideration in clinical research and practice.
Tooth loss is the condition or process characterized by the disappearance or absence of one or more teeth from their normal position in the dental arch. This can occur due to various reasons such as tooth decay, periodontal disease (gum disease), injury, or aging. The consequences of tooth loss include difficulties in chewing, speaking, and adversely affecting the aesthetics of a person's smile, which may lead to psychological impacts. Additionally, it can cause shifting of adjacent teeth, bone resorption, and changes in the bite, potentially leading to further dental issues if not treated promptly.
A tooth germ is a small cluster of cells that eventually develop into a tooth. It contains the dental papilla, which will become the dentin and pulp of the tooth, and the dental follicle, which will form the periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone. The tooth germ starts as an epithelial thickening called the dental lamina, which then forms a bud, cap, and bell stage before calcification occurs and the tooth begins to erupt through the gums. It is during the bell stage that the enamel organ, which will form the enamel of the tooth, is formed.
A deciduous tooth, also known as a baby tooth or primary tooth, is a type of temporary tooth that humans and some other mammals develop during childhood. They are called "deciduous" because they are eventually shed and replaced by permanent teeth, much like how leaves on a deciduous tree fall off and are replaced by new growth.
Deciduous teeth begin to form in the womb and start to erupt through the gums when a child is around six months old. By the time a child reaches age three, they typically have a full set of 20 deciduous teeth, including incisors, canines, and molars. These teeth are smaller and less durable than permanent teeth, but they serve important functions such as helping children chew food properly, speak clearly, and maintain space in the jaw for the permanent teeth to grow into.
Deciduous teeth usually begin to fall out around age six or seven, starting with the lower central incisors. This process continues until all of the deciduous teeth have been shed, typically by age 12 or 13. At this point, the permanent teeth will have grown in and taken their place, with the exception of the wisdom teeth, which may not erupt until later in adolescence or early adulthood.
A tooth crown is a type of dental restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. It is typically made of materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys and is custom-made to fit over the prepared tooth. The tooth crown is cemented in place and becomes the new outer surface of the tooth, protecting it from further damage or decay.
The process of getting a tooth crown usually involves two dental appointments. During the first appointment, the dentist prepares the tooth by removing any decay or damaged tissue and shaping the tooth to accommodate the crown. An impression is then taken of the prepared tooth and sent to a dental laboratory where the crown is fabricated. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is ready. At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is cemented in place.
Tooth crowns are often recommended for several reasons, including:
* To restore a broken or fractured tooth
* To protect a weakened tooth from further damage or decay
* To support a large filling when there isn't enough natural tooth structure left
* To cover a dental implant
* To improve the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth
Overall, a tooth crown is an effective and long-lasting solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth and improving oral health.
A tooth root is the part of a tooth that is embedded in the jawbone and cannot be seen when looking at a person's smile. It is the lower portion of a tooth that typically has a conical shape and anchors the tooth to the jawbone through a periodontal ligament. The tooth root is covered by cementum, a specialized bone-like tissue, and contains nerve endings and blood vessels within its pulp chamber.
The number of roots in a tooth can vary depending on the type of tooth. For example, incisors typically have one root, canines may have one or two roots, premolars usually have one or two roots, and molars often have two to four roots. The primary function of the tooth root is to provide stability and support for the crown of the tooth, allowing it to withstand the forces of biting and chewing.
Tooth eruption is the process by which a tooth emerges from the gums and becomes visible in the oral cavity. It is a normal part of dental development that occurs in a predictable sequence and timeframe. Primary or deciduous teeth, also known as baby teeth, begin to erupt around 6 months of age and continue to emerge until approximately 2-3 years of age. Permanent or adult teeth start to erupt around 6 years of age and can continue to emerge until the early twenties.
The process of tooth eruption involves several stages, including the formation of the tooth within the jawbone, the movement of the tooth through the bone and surrounding tissues, and the final emergence of the tooth into the mouth. Proper tooth eruption is essential for normal oral function, including chewing, speaking, and smiling. Any abnormalities in the tooth eruption process, such as delayed or premature eruption, can indicate underlying dental or medical conditions that require further evaluation and treatment.
A supernumerary tooth, also known as hyperdontia, refers to an additional tooth or teeth that grow beyond the regular number of teeth in the dental arch. These extra teeth can erupt in various locations of the dental arch and may occur in any of the tooth types, but they are most commonly seen as extra premolars or molars, and less frequently as incisors or canines. Supernumerary teeth may be asymptomatic or may cause complications such as crowding, displacement, or impaction of adjacent teeth, and therefore, they often require dental treatment.
Tooth abnormalities refer to any variations or irregularities in the size, shape, number, structure, or development of teeth that deviate from the typical or normal anatomy. These abnormalities can occur in primary (deciduous) or permanent teeth and can be caused by genetic factors, environmental influences, systemic diseases, or localized dental conditions during tooth formation.
Some examples of tooth abnormalities include:
1. Microdontia - teeth that are smaller than normal in size.
2. Macrodontia - teeth that are larger than normal in size.
3. Peg-shaped teeth - teeth with a narrow, conical shape.
4. Talon cusps - additional cusps or points on the biting surface of a tooth.
5. Dens invaginatus - an abnormal development where the tooth crown has an extra fold or pouch that can trap bacteria and cause dental problems.
6. Taurodontism - teeth with large pulp chambers and short roots.
7. Supernumerary teeth - having more teeth than the typical number (20 primary and 32 permanent teeth).
8. Hypodontia - missing one or more teeth due to a failure of development.
9. Germination - two adjacent teeth fused together, usually occurring in the front teeth.
10. Fusion - two separate teeth that have grown together during development.
Tooth abnormalities may not always require treatment unless they cause functional, aesthetic, or dental health issues. A dentist can diagnose and manage tooth abnormalities through various treatments, such as fillings, extractions, orthodontic care, or restorative procedures.
Tooth wear is the progressive loss of tooth structure that can occur as a result of various factors. According to the medical definition, it refers to the wearing down, rubbing away, or grinding off of the hard tissues of the teeth (enamel and dentin) due to mechanical forces or chemical processes.
There are three primary types of tooth wear:
1. Abrasion: This is the loss of tooth structure caused by friction from external sources, such as incorrect brushing techniques, bite appliances, or habits like nail-biting and pipe smoking.
2. Attrition: This type of tooth wear results from the natural wearing down of teeth due to occlusal forces during biting, chewing, and grinding. However, excessive attrition can occur due to bruxism (teeth grinding) or clenching.
3. Erosion: Chemical processes, such as acid attacks from dietary sources (e.g., citrus fruits, sodas, and sports drinks) or gastric reflux, cause the loss of tooth structure in this type of tooth wear. The enamel dissolves when exposed to low pH levels, leaving the dentin underneath vulnerable to further damage.
Professional dental examination and treatment may be necessary to address significant tooth wear and prevent further progression, which can lead to sensitivity, pain, and functional or aesthetic issues.
Tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth that is damaged or poses a threat to oral health is removed from its socket in the jawbone. This may be necessary due to various reasons such as severe tooth decay, gum disease, fractured teeth, crowded teeth, or for orthodontic treatment purposes. The procedure is performed by a dentist or an oral surgeon, under local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring minimal discomfort during the extraction process.