Top 5 dental specialties stories of 2024

In 2024, dentistry advanced with breakthroughs in stem cell and antibiotic therapies, highlighted risks like dental injuries and anaphylaxis, and saw an orthodontist's viral satire spotlight its influence on health and culture.

The following are DrBicuspid.com's top five dental specialty stories for 2024, based on member views.

New ways to restore teeth may upend dentistry

In May, researchers at the University of Buffalo began testing a therapy using dental pulp stem cells to repair damaged teeth, potentially reducing the need for invasive root canals. If successful in animal trials, this approach could gain U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval and transform dental care by preventing infections and tooth fractures.

ADHD patients may be twice as likely to experience TDIs

Research revealed that patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be twice as likely to experience traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) due to factors like impaired motor coordination and behavioral challenges. Clinicians and schools can help reduce this risk by implementing preventive strategies and fostering supportive environments, according to the study published in the European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences.

Root canal material led to anaphylaxis-related death

A case report published in September in the Journal of Endodontics detailed two instances of anaphylaxis linked to polyethylene glycol (PEG) in temporary endodontic materials, one resulting in death.

Both cases involved severe allergic reactions shortly after dental procedures, with symptoms such as itching, nausea, and loss of consciousness. The findings underscore the need to evaluate PEG allergy in cases of anaphylaxis following endodontic treatments, as PEG, while considered low risk, can trigger life-threatening reactions.

Drug may upend gum disease, other systemic diseases

A study published in the Journal of Oral Microbiology revealed that the antibiotic FP-100 can selectively eliminate Fusobacterium nucleatum, a bacteria linked to periodontitis and systemic diseases like colorectal cancer and Alzheimer's, without affecting the oral or gut microbiomes. This targeted approach may not only prevent gum disease but also reduce the risk of other related conditions.

This orthodontist is a scumbag

Dr. Brad Podray, an Iowa orthodontist and Florida native, best known as "Scumbag Dad," humorously satirizes influencers under his social media persona. With over 10 million followers across TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, he creates comedic content mocking trends like staged acts of kindness and budget gourmet cooking.