When Oral Pathologist Dr. Laura Ike couldn’t find the radiology report on a scan of patients jaw, she wondered if other patients had scans that fell through the cracks. She uncovered gross negligence on a big scale affecting a couple of thousand patients at the Walter Reed Medical Center. If you don’t have a subscription to the Wall Street Journal …
New Dentist: New Sense Of Alarm Examining Growth on Palate
Nicole Gibbs wanted whiter teeth for her friends wedding and her new dentist didn’t oblige after examining her mouth and noticing a growth on her palate. She said it had been there for 5 years. Her doctor said it was a ‘bony growth’ and nothing to worry about. Her dentist at that time agreed. You can NEVER know what something …
Tongue & Lip Piercings: Effect On Your Oral Health
Tongue piercings may be trendy, but biting down on the metal stud can crack a tooth. Lip piercings pose a similar risk. When metal rubs against the gums, it can cause damage to the oral tissue which may lead to tooth loss. The mouth is a haven for bacteria. Piercings raise the risk of infections and sores. Get educated by …
Alaska Natives: Dental Care Without A Dentist
Increasing reliance upon Western diets has exacerbated problems with tooth decay in Native Alaska. Soda pop arrives by the crate to villages only reachable by plane, boat or snowmobile. Public water supplies of fluoridated water is rare. The underfunded Indian Health Service has had chronic difficulty hiring dentists to serve in remote communities. Even if they come, they often leave. …
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Radiation Mouth Sores: Painful to Eat
Dear Eva, I’m in week 3 of treatments for oral cancer. The mouth sores have really kicked in. Hard to eat anything I have to chew. Sticking to Ensure and other drinks, creamed soups, mashed potatoes and gravy, scrambled eggs. My doctor said I am losing too much weight, can’t lose anymore or the mask won’t fit properly. Any suggestions …