IOM eyes oral/systemic link; lactic-acid bacteria battles HPV

Dear DrBicuspid Member,

The need to find more effective ways to address oral healthcare disparities in the U.S. is at the forefront of a new Institute of Medicine (IOM) report, "Advancing Oral Health in America," which emphasizes the link between oral health and overall health.

Click here to read the list of "strategic actions" the IOM is urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to take to improve oral health services for some of the country's most vulnerable populations.

In clinical news, lactic-acid bacteria in plaque can cause caries, but in saliva these same bacteria appear to protect against human papillomavirus (HPV) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, according to research presented at the recent International Association for Dental Research (IADR) meeting. Read more.

Another study presented at the IADR meeting found that the old adage "less is more" can improve the informed consent process prior to beginning orthodontic treatment. Could it improve the process for other dental therapies as well?

Finally, don't forget to "Like" us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/drbicuspid) and follow us on Twitter (www.twitter.com/drbicuspid)! We post regular updates to both throughout the day.