Biomedical subjects

W C Noblett

Publications and source records attributed to W C Noblett.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2001

Retreatment versus initial root canal treatment: factors affecting posttreatment pain.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the factors associated with posttreatment pain in patients receiving root canal retreatment (RCR) and in those receiving initial root canal treatment (IRCT). STUDY DESIGN: Eighty four patients scheduled for RCR or IRCT completed questionnaires on pretreatment pain levels (Visual Analogue Scale, 0-100) and demographic data. Diagnosis and original obturating material, if applicable, were also recorded, and treatment was initiated. At 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours, patients recorded posttreatment pain levels. Seventy one patients returned completed questionnaires. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in posttreatment pain with respect to patients undergoing RCR and patients undergoing IRCT, type of original obturating material, or pretreatment diagnosis. Posttreatment pain levels were significantly increased at 4, 8, and 12 hours after treatment. Patients reporting higher levels of pretreatment pain (Visual Analogue Scale > 20) had significantly increased posttreatment pain (P <.05) up to 24 hours after the procedure. CONCLUSIONS: Pretreatment pain level influenced posttreatment pain more than RCR or IRCT, the type of original obturating material, or the pretreatment diagnosis.

Acute Disease↗

PubMed1996

Detection of pulpal circulation in vitro by pulse oximetry.

Evaluation of pulse oximetry as a potential method of determining pulp vitality was the subject of this research. An in vitro model of pulpal circulation was fabricated to test the design for a dental pulse oximetry sensor. Blood samples equilibrated with hypoxic gas mixtures were circulated through the model by a peristaltic pump. A pulse was simulated by introduction of gas bubbles into the blood circulation. Pulse oximeter readings for saturation were recorded and compared with blood gas analysis results. Statistical analysis revealed no difference between pulse oximetry and blood gas analysis with a highly significant correlation coefficient. Clinical evaluation of this application is currently in progress.

Dental Pulp↗

PubMed1990

Geriatric dentistry.

The over-55 age group--the most rapidly expanding portion of the population--until recently has been the least understood patient group treated in the dental office. During the last decade, the special dental care needs of geriatric patients have been the subject of many research efforts. Understanding the interactions between the systemic health problems and disease trends of the elderly and their oral health has helped the dental profession gain greater insight into treatment strategies tailored to their needs. Evaluation of the patient's systemic health is critical to identifying complicating factors that can interfere with or be exacerbated by dental treatment. Understanding these disease trends can also sensitize the dentist to the presence of previously undiagnosed oral signs of systemic disease. In addition to the patient's systemic health, oral and dental status and individual expectations and desires must be considered when developing a treatment plan. In considering all of these variables, optimal treatment can be rendered to restore function and aesthetics in a manner that will help maintain and improve the patient's health and psychologic well-being.

Geriatric Dentistry↗