Articles: dentistry.
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This article examines the worldwide literature for information regarding the potential adverse effects of nitrous oxide on chronically exposed personnel. This research convincingly demonstrates the lack of substantiation for these concerns. Biologically correlated standards for exposure still need to be established. Nitrous oxide has never been implicated to be harmful in any way to the patient.
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Many dentists have embraced the "holistic" dentistry movement. What is presented here is a critical examination of the logical and scientific fallacies inherent in this movement. Specific topics covered include amalgam "toxicity," applied kinesiology, nutrition quackery, acupuncture, homeopathy and the muddle that is commonly known as TMD.
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Anesthesia progress · Jan 1997
Meta Analysis Comparative StudyThe efficacy of nonopioid analgesics for postoperative dental pain: a meta-analysis.
The evidence for the efficacy of nonopioid analgesics in the dental pain model was examined by conducting a meta-analysis. Studies were obtained by searching the literature from August 1996 back to 1975 using the terms pain, analgesics, and dentistry. This led to the review of 294 articles, of which 33 studies met the inclusion criteria. ⋯ Collectively, therapeutic doses of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) commonly used in dentistry were significantly more efficacious than the combination of acetaminophen (600 or 650 mg) with codeine (60 mg). Similarly, specific doses of each of diflunisal, flurbiprofen, ibuprofen, and ketorolac were significantly more efficacious than the commonly used acetaminophen-codeine combination. These quantitative results show that particular NSAIDs may be more efficacious than the acetaminophen-codeine combination for relief of postoperative dental pain.
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Patterns of nitrous-oxide (N,O) use among Nebraska dentists and dental assistants are reported. More than 800 respondents answered questions relating to risk of N,O exposure and compliance with N,O standards in the dental office: 73 percent of these dental practices using N,O have a state-registration permit. Dentists and dental assistants (from registered and unregistered practices) reported risk of exposure differently. ⋯ Most N,O users have scavenging systems, but they are not properly operated. Few dental practices test for leaks or conduct N,O-monitoring tests. By complying with the recommendations for N,O administration, dental-care workers can minimize their risk of exposure.