Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of bacterial origin that results in the progressive destruction of the tissues that support the teeth, specifically the gingiva, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. The…
This article discusses the classic autoimmune diseases: pemphigus vulgaris, mucosal pemphigoid, and oral lichen planus. These are generally considered of autoimmune origin or, at a minimum, immune system mediated. Cause,…
This article addresses several issues in the approach to diagnosis of oral cancer. The term oral cancer is clarified. Key aspects of the biologic basis of development of oral cancer…
Salivary diagnostics is a dynamic and emerging field utilizing nanotechnology and molecular diagnostics to aid in the diagnosis of oral and systemic diseases. In this article the author critically reviews…
This article reviews the diagnostic process, from the first clinically evident stages of the caries process to development of pulpal pathosis. The caries diagnostic process includes 4 interconnected components–staging caries…
There are many types of pain conditions that are felt in the orofacial structures. Most of the conditions treated by the dentist are associated with the teeth, periodontal structures, and…
Although all dentists are taught about the importance of oral health to general health and that systemic disease can manifest in the oral cavity, the 4-year dental school curriculum does…
When first case examples presents to a dentist, a patient may have a specific complaint, be in need of routine evaluation, or arrive on referral from another health care provider….
Tooth agenesis is one of the most common developmental dental anomalies. Successful and satisfying dental treatment is always the goal for patients and dental practitioners, meaning that a patient’s needs…
Porcelain laminate veneers (PLVs) provide the dentist and the patient with an opportunity to enhance the patient’s smile in a minimally to virtually noninvasive manner. Today’s PLV demonstrates excellent clinical…
