Cochrane

Review question This review, carried out by the Cochrane Oral Health Group, seeks to evaluate the effects of interdental (between the teeth) brushing in addition to toothbrushing as compared with toothbrushing on its own or toothbrushing plus flossing for the prevention and control of periodontal (gum) diseases, dental plaque (a sticky film containing ...

Review question The main question addressed by this review is how effective the use of antibacterial agents in composite (resin-based, tooth-coloured) fillings might be in preventing the development of further decay either underneath or next to the filling (secondary caries). Background When tooth decay (caries) has caused a cavity in a tooth a ...

Review question This review, carried out by the Cochrane Oral Health Group, seeks to compare the effectiveness of two commonly used painkillers, paracetamol and ibuprofen and the combination of both in a single tablet in the relief of pain following surgical removal of lower wisdom teeth. Background Worldwide the number of surgical operations ...

Review question Ugly white marks sometimes appear on the teeth during orthodontic (brace) treatment. These are caused by early tooth decay and usually occur with fixed (or glued-on 'train track') braces when the teeth are not cleaned properly. We know that fluoride in toothpaste helps to prevent dental decay; therefore, extra fluoride provided to ...

Review question This review has been conducted to assess the effects of using a toothpaste containing triclosan (an antibacterial ingredient) plus copolymer (an ingredient to reduce the amount of triclosan that is washed away by rinsing or saliva) plus fluoride (a mineral that prevents tooth decay) compared with using a fluoride toothpaste (without ...

Review question The main question addressed by this review is: what is the best method for preparing the enamel on the surface of teeth so as to improve the bonding (sticking) of fixed orthodontic braces? Background Many people need to wear fixed orthodontic devices, such as braces, to correct problems with the teeth and jaw (e.g. overcrowding or ...

Cancer of the mouth is a serious condition and only half of those that develop the disease manage to survive after five years. It is commonly preceded by visible lesions, which if identified early, can be treated and could result in simpler surgery and much better outcomes. As a result, there is a need to understand how good different types of tests ...

Review question This review, carried out by authors of the Cochrane Oral Health Group, was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of current screening programmes in detecting oral cancer at an early stage and whether or not they can assist in decreasing deaths due to oral cancer. Background Oral cancer is increasing worldwide and it is the sixth ...

Review question This review, carried out by authors of the Cochrane Oral Health Group, has been produced to assess the effects of orthodontic treatment (treatment by dentists who specialise in the growth, function and position of teeth and jaws) for prominent upper front teeth in children. The review question looks at when this treatment is best ...

Review question Scaling and polishing of the teeth may reduce deposits (plaque and calculus), as well as bleeding and inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). Over time a reduction in gingivitis (a milder form of gum disease) will reduce progression to periodontitis (a severe gum disease). This review examines the evidence for the effects of routine ...