A trip to the dentist isn’t something most people look forward to.
“Because of all the drilling and injections, it’s not fun,” said Suchitra Nelson, an associate dean and professor at the Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine.
While discomfort can’t be avoided in every procedure, Nelson is leading a new study building on earlier research showing two less-invasive options for treating and preventing cavities are equally effective.
The study focuses on older adults living in subsidized housing who often face barriers to dental care, including lack of insurance, transportation and mobility issues.
Two treatment methods that do not require a dental drill or anesthesia
As in the earlier study, patients will be treated using two methods that do not require a dental drill or anesthesia: silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and atraumatic restorative treatment (ART). SDF is a liquid applied to cavities to stop their progression, killing bacteria and strengthening the tooth surface. ART removes decayed tissue with hand tools before applying a restorative material.
“Long-term evidence for these treatments is lacking,” Nelson said. “This follow-up study can help identify the best options to prevent and treat tooth decay.”
The research is supported by a five-year, $5 million grant from the nonprofit Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.
Nearly 96% of older adults nationally have had a cavity, and about one-third of non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic and low-income older adults have untreated decay because of limited access to affordable care, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Untreated decay
Untreated decay can cause pain, infection and tooth loss and may worsen heart and lung disease and diabetes.
In Nelson’s earlier PCORI-funded study, 568 participants received either SDF or ART. Researchers found both treatments were equally effective and that dental hygienists could successfully provide care at housing facilities.
The new study will follow 480 participants at 33 subsidized housing sites in Northeast Ohio over one year, with three visits to treat any new cavities. While focused on older adults, Nelson said the less-invasive treatments could benefit patients of any age.
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