TTC_05_23_18_Vol.14-No.30.p1-12

May 23 - 29, 2018 www.TheTownCommon.com Page 9
Health & Wellness
BY J. PETER ST. CLAIR, DMD
A Harvard-led study
published in the journal, Science
Translational Medicine, has
determined that the use of lowpowered
lasers can stimulate
stem cells enough to regenerate
and grow rat teeth and human
dental tissue. This concept may
seem barbaric, but it could
be a metamorphic tool in the
constantly evolving world of
dentistry.
Researchers have been trying
to figure out new ways to use the
versatility of stem cells since they
exist in abundance throughout
the human body. Stem cells are
unique in the sense that they can
become different types of cells,
making them prime candidates
to repair or replace damaged
tissue.
Although the research is still in
its earliest stages and has yet to
be tested on humans, using lasers
to stimulate growth is not a new
concept – but this study marks
the first time that this process
has been demonstrated and
Tai chi, an exercise regimen
from China, has been found
to be an effective technique for
relaxation and a generally safe
method to encourage older people
to get up and move around. But
before I list the possible benefits
you may derive from tai chi, let
me remind you to check with
your doctor before you begin any
type of exercise program.
According to a number of
studies, tai chi’s choreographed
exercises promote flexibility.
It may help promote recovery
Brighter Smiles...
observed. The findings in this
study could potentially change
the future of dentistry since it
could be possible to regrow teeth
rather than replacing them with
another material.
The experiment involved
drilling holes in rat molars to
expose the dentin (the layer of
tooth under enamel); one molar
was treated with a laser while the
other molars went untreated. After
12 weeks, the researchers noticed
that the dentin was growing back
in the treated molar. After this
finding, all of the rat molars were
treated with lasers and yielded
the same results.
This technique was also tested
on various mammal cells and the
researchers observed that certain
oxygen-containing molecules
were stimulated and caused the
stem cells to convert into dentin
as well. When this technique
was tested on human dental
stem cells, the results were also
similar.
Although this is groundbreaking
research, don’t expect to see this
technique offered by your dentist
to fix your cavities or replace your
missing teeth any time soon.
Even though the teeth grew back
in the rats, the teeth did not grow
back perfectly each time. Early
studies like these are exciting but
take years to even determine how
from falls, an all-too-common
problem for older people. And
since it can enhance balance
and coordination, those who
are trained in the practice may
find themselves less likely to
experience falling.
Tai chi movements help
strengthen and tone the muscles in
the lower body, and also promote
better posture, which aligns the
spine, neck and head, relieving
pressure on the lower back. A
study in “Annals of Behavioral
Medicine” indicates that older
people who benefit from these
strengthening exercises say they
feel less limited in their physical
abilities, which gives them a
renewed sense of self-confidence.
Tai chi’s adherents claim the
slow, gentle dancelike movements
make it as effective as yoga in
helping them to relax, especially
Interesting Study
Senior Scene
The Graceful Exercise
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There is a light at the end of the (978)388-5240 (978)374-1540
tunnel.
The
Since human teeth are
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larger than rat teeth, researchers
hypothesize that it could be
possible to pinpoint certain
growth areas without causing
the problems they have seen
What does your
in the formation of the tooth
material in rats. The researchers
are currently developing human
trials for this technique to see
what the laser and stem cell
combination have in store for the
future of dentistry.
The best dentistry is always not
to need any dentistry. Regular
maintenance appointments with
your favorite dental office are the
best way to keep on top of that.
Although there is cool research
going on for the prevention
and solution of common dental
problems, most dental problems
are completely avoidable with
proper care.
Dr. St. Clair maintains a private
dental practice in Rowley and
Newburyport dedicated to healthcentered
family dentistry. If there
are certain topics you would like to
see written about or questions you
The Town Common
have please email them to him at
jpstclair@stclairdmd.com. You can
view all previously written columns
at www.jpeterstclairdentistry.com/
blog.
when they feel anxious or tense
about a situation in their lives.
There is also some evidence that
when used in combination with
diet and medication, tai chi may
enhance blood pressure control.
To do tai chi correctly, you
should find a class that offers it.
Check with your local Y or senior
center. Videos may be helpful,
too. Be patient. It takes time
to develop expertise, but you
should have a good grasp of the
movements within a few weeks.
(c) 2017 King Features Synd., Inc.
smile say about you?
Whether you are missing teeth or are unhappy with the
ones you have, it may be time to explore your options.
All Phases of Dental Care Including:
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Learn More: www.stclairdmd.com
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