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Biomedical subjects

L B Messer

Publications and source records attributed to L B Messer.

45 records · Page 3Linked to original sources

Postdoctoral research training in cariology: an opportunity initiated by the National Caries Program at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.

In response to the need for development of measures to effectively control human dental caries, a postdocroral research training program in cariology has been established at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. This article discusses the concept of cariology, the background leading to the development of the program, and the goals and structure of the program. The recruiting and training of individuals to perform and direct multidisciplinary basic and applied research in cariology are explained. A didactic and clinical program is presented which gives a comprehensive introduction to cariology to trainees with a Ph.D degree and little previous knowledge of the multifactorial nature of dental caries.

Curriculum↗

Aided augmentative communication in managing children with cerebral palsy.

The use of an aided augmentative communication system to achieve effective communication between the pediatric dentist and the child with cerebral palsy is described. This type of communication involves symbols placed on a communication board and may be used together with conventional behavior management techniques for successful delivery of dental treatment. A multidisciplinary team caring for the child is necessary to achieve successful outcomes. Aided augmentative communication is a promising adjunct for the care of the child with communication impairment, and may be of particular value in pediatric dental practices where the staff are able to practice and master its use for selected child patients.

Adolescent↗

Nutrient intake and dental caries in the primary dentition.

An extensive literature has assessed the influence of diet on dental caries, but to date dietary influences on caries of the primary dentition have not been studied widely. This study examined the role of specific nutrients in the caries experience of preschool children. A total of 628 children ages 2 to 6 years received a dental examination, parent interview, and a seven-day diet diary. The diary was completed adequately for 269 children (43%). The average daily intakes of 15 nutrients were computed and compared with recommended dietary allowances (RDA); total sugar consumption and Ca/P ratio were calculated. Each child's gender, age, fluoride history, previous dental experience, and nutrient intakes were examined as independent variables. Stepwise logistic regression showed the combination of categories most predictive of caries was older age, suboptimal fluoride consumption, and recall dental visit. No association was apparent between dental caries and the intake of specific nutrients, total sugar consumption, or Ca/P ratio.

Age Factors↗

Adding casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate to sports drinks to eliminate in vitro erosion.

PURPOSE: Enamel erosion can occur with frequent consumption of sports drinks. The purpose of this study was to determine a minimal concentration of casein phosphopeptide-stabilized amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) which when added to a sports drink would eliminate such erosion in vitro. METHODS: Human enamel specimens were immersed in: (1) the sports drink Powerade; (2) Poweradeplus 4 concentrations of CPP-ACP (0.063%, 0.09%, 0.125%, 0.25%); or (3) double deionized water. Windows of test and control enamel were profiled, and the enamel surface characteristics were examined under scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS: The pH of test solutions increased and the titratable acidity decreased with increasing CPP-ACP concentrations. Erosive step lesions occurred in specimens immersed in Powerade (mean depth=38.70kA +/- 5.60), which were eliminated by the addition of CPP-ACP to Powerade at all test concentrations except 0.063% CPP-ACP. Microscopic surface irregularities on test enamel were observed, apparent as adherent granules or globules. These may represent redeposited mineral phases following mobilization of calcium and phosphate from CPP-ACP. Tasters in a taste panel could not distinguish Powerade from Powerade plus 0.125% CPP-ACP. CONCLUSIONS: Adding casein phosphopeptide-stabilized amorphous calcium phosphate to the sports drink Powerade significantly reduced the beverage's erosivity without affecting the product's taste.

Analysis of Variance↗

Sealant use by general practitioners: a Minnesota survey.

A 1987 random-sample mail survey on the use of sealants by general dentists in Minnesota (71 percent response, N = 375) found that almost all (95 percent) reported using sealants. Usage was predominantly for the six- to fourteen-year-old patient age-group. Frequency of use per week ranged from 1-25 (mean +/- S.D. = 3.3 +/- 3.6). More frequent use was associated positively with employing more dental hygienists, having more sources of information about sealants, having higher knowledge scores, and having more favorable opinions about sealants. While reported use of sealants is high in this state, the frequency of use and proportion of child patients receiving sealants were both relatively low.

Adolescent↗

Fluoride mouthrinses.

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Dental Caries↗

Sealant knowledge and use by pediatric dentists: 1987 Minnesota survey.

Sealants are safe, cost-effective, and easy to apply. All of the pediatric dentists surveyed in this study reported using sealants. Only 46 percent, however, applied sealants more than ten times per week. Sealant use was most often for the six- to fourteen-year-old age-group.

Adolescent↗

Relative caries experience of sealed versus unsealed permanent posterior teeth: a three-year study.

A clinical trial has investigated the occlusal caries experience of permanent molars and premolars, following the apparent loss of occlusal sealants applied by dental students, in comparison with that of unsealed teeth erupted for time periods similar to the sealant evaluation periods. Complete retention at one, two and three years was relatively poor. Throughout the study, premolars were superior to molars in fully retaining sealants. Regardless of the clinical condition of the sealant, a statistically significant reduction in occlusal caries-experience of sealed teeth was seen in comparison with control teeth. This relative reduction was highest at one year: 72 percent for molars and 83 percent for premolars, dropping at three years to 23 percent for molars and 64 percent for premolars. At one year, molar sealant failures showed a statistically significant, relative reduction of 41 percent in occlusal caries-experience over control teeth, suggesting as ongoing caries-inhibitory effect. Thereafter, the history of a failed sealant neither enhanced nor reduced the occlusal caries susceptibility of molars, and premolars over that of control teeth.

Adolescent↗