News - July 2026

Study warns social media misinformation may put orthodontic patients at risk

Social media is increasingly used to promote orthodontic treatment directly to prospective patients. Amid concerns about misleading marketing claims and unrealistic expectations, a new qualitative study examined how orthodontists view this marketing environment and how they think the profession should respond. Three key themes emerged from in-depth interviews with orthodontists: an uneven marketing landscape; the spread of misinformation and creation of unrealistic expectations; and, the need for greater professional involvement and self-regulation.

Participants believed that social media is dominated by companies promoting aligner systems and direct-to-consumer orthodontic services, which they said often make unsupported claims about treatment speed, comfort or effectiveness. They also felt that general dentists were often more visible online than orthodontists, potentially making it difficult for patients to distinguish differences in expertise. By contrast, participants said orthodontists were under-represented online, reducing the availability of balanced, evidence-based information.

A major concern raised by participants was the prevalence of misleading content. Interviewees said social media typically showcases ideal outcomes, but overlooks treatment limitations, complications or unsuccessful cases. They believed that patients are more vulnerable to misinformation than clinicians, and that this could result in unrealistic expectations and demand for treatments that may not be clinically appropriate.

Rather than calling for stricter external regulation alone, participants supported greater self-regulation within the profession. They suggested that orthodontists become more active on social media by sharing accurate, evidence-based content, correcting misinformation and helping the public understand treatment options.

The authors conclude that both clinicians and patients should remain cautious in interpreting online marketing. The study was published online in the British Dental Journal.

From: https://uk.dental-tribune.com/news/study-warns-social-media-misinformation-may-put-orthodontic-patients-at-risk/.

Scientists discover a hidden heart valve risk linked to gum disease

Bacteria that cause gum disease may do more than damage teeth. New preliminary research suggests that they could also contribute to the buildup of calcium in the heart’s aortic valve, potentially leading to calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS), a common and potentially life-threatening heart valve disorder. The findings were presented at an American Heart Association (AHA) conference in July.

According to the AHA, CAVS develops when the aortic valve gradually becomes thicker and more calcified, making it harder for blood to flow from the heart to the rest of the body. The new research points to a possible biological mechanism connecting chronic gum disease and infection with the development of CAVS. The team concentrated on Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), a bacterium known to play a major role in periodontal disease.

To investigate the connection, researchers analysed bacterial levels in heart valve tissue. They compared calcified aortic valves from people with CAVS to valve tissue from patients with other heart valve conditions, and were surprised by how much P. gingivalis was present in the calcified aortic valves.

The researchers then turned to mouse experiments to better understand a possible disease mechanism. Repeated exposure to live P. gingivalis caused the bacteria to accumulate in the aortic valves of mice, leading to greater valve calcification and symptoms of aortic stenosis.

Co-lead author of the study Chenyang Li MD said: “While it is still too early to recommend specific treatments for preventing CAVS, our findings suggest that periodontal health could be an important piece of the puzzle”. The researchers emphasise that these results are preliminary and have not yet been confirmed in people.

From: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713000751.htm.

Periodontal disease carries a measurable environmental cost

A new study has measured the environmental burden associated with periodontal disease. Researchers examined the environmental impact of home-based oral hygiene regimens and clinic-based periodontal treatment, and identified the main contributors to the footprint of periodontal disease management.

Using a life cycle analysis of daily home hygiene practices and in-clinic dental care, the study assessed the environmental impact of maintaining periodontal health compared with managing different stages of periodontal disease. Patients requiring clinical treatment for periodontal disease were modelled as having a considerably larger environmental footprint than those who maintained periodontal health through preventive care. The increase was driven largely by greater numbers of clinic visits and the associated patient and staff travel, energy consumption by dental practices, and use of clinical equipment and materials.

For the average patient, professionally delivered periodontal care was associated with an environmental impact approximately two to four times higher than that of preventive at-home oral care. The gap widened further in advanced periodontitis, where impacts reached 10 times those associated with daily preventive routines.

The researchers found no statistically significant difference between home care regimens using manual and electric toothbrushes across the environmental impact categories assessed. Water use during toothbrushing emerged as one of the most important contributors to the environmental footprint of home oral care.

The study gives measurable environmental weight to the clinical case for periodontal disease prevention. It shows that progression from preventive home care to repeated clinic-based treatment carries a substantial sustainability burden. The article was published online in the Journal of Dentistry.

From: https://uk.dental-tribune.com/news/periodontal-disease-carries-a-measurable-environmental-cost/.