The development of oral cancer drugs as a modality therapy over the last decade has highlighted the problem of non-adherence. Only cancer drugs that are taken can actually work. Contrary to what is expected, a significant share of cancer patients doesn’t take their cancer drugs as prescribed. Presented at the ESMO Congress 2016, the results of a new study by Professor Florence Joly and Dr Melanie Dos Santos of the Centre Francois Baclesse in Caen, on the “Impact of cognitive functions on oral anticancer therapies adherence” (1) highlights that cognitive disorders may be an under-estimated major parameter (notably among elderly patients).

Joly explains, “The objective of this initial study was to assess the relationship between cognitive functions and oral medication adherence in order to identify the patient profiles who are more likely to be non-adherent.

“This study included patients starting a new oral therapy and half were over 70 years of age. Before starting treatment, a standardised neuropsychological test battery including an assessment of autonomy, depression and anxiety were performed. Information on socio-demographic conditions was also collected. Adherence to oral therapy was evaluated by self-assessment questionnaires and an observance sheet.”

The study concluded that working memory dysfunctions (frequently observed among elderly patients) and depression appear to be predictors of non-adherence. Focusing on cognitive functions before initiation of oral anticancer therapy is therefore relevant to identify the patient profiles more likely to fail self-management of oral anticancer therapy and therefore help clinical decision-making, particularly with elderly patients.

Due to the importance of patients adhering to cancer treatments, ESMO 2016 Congress is also devoting a Patient Advocacy Track session to the issue (2). Non-adherence to oral cancer treatments may impact the efficacy of treatment and even survival, with high costs for the patient and healthcare systems.

Focusing on intentional non-adherence, Bettina Ryll, Chair of the ESMO Patient Advocacy Working Group, adds, “I believe the current concept of adherence is too narrow i.e. physicians expect patients to take their medication as prescribed and non-adherence is considered a form of disobedience. Intentional non-adherence, the patient deciding not to take medication as indicated, is actually revealing patients’ true preferences and these might simply be very different from what physicians and other stakeholders consider relevant. So instead of enforcing adherence against patients’ preferences, we need to first understand and then tackle the true reasons underlying non-adherence.”

Ryll stated that oncologists needed to understand the driving factors and characteristics of patients that drive non-adherence to cancer therapies, in order to improve outcomes of those patients at risk.

1 Abstract 1497P - Impact of cognitive functions on oral anticancer therapies adherence M. Dos Santos, M. Lange, B. Clarisse, M. Barillet, F. Joly; Caen, FR will be presented during a Poster Session on 09,10.2016 at 13:00 CEST

2 Patient Advocacy Track link: https://www.esmo.org/Conferences/ESMO-2016-Congress/Programme/Patient-Advocacy-Track#eztoc1466281_0_3_7

Every day, thousands of Americans wake up on their first day of retirement with no dental health benefits. The Santa Fe Group and its partners are seeking to change that, by sharing ideas in their recent meeting, Expanding Oral Healthcare for America’s Seniors, in Arlington, Virginia, This meeting, which has been filled to capacity, has brought leaders together to develop initiatives to improve the understanding on aging and oral health. 

Check out Compendium’s interview with Dr. Hal Slavkin, Professor and Dean Emeritus at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California, as he shares his thoughts about this issue.  

Prodways announced a major development in 3D printing technology. The company's research-and-development teams have been collaborating for 2 years with CEA-LITEN, an institute of the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission, on a new metal 3D printing process using metal powder combined with organic binders. This project has just seen its first successful production of titanium parts using this new exclusive process.

If it were to be ramped up to series production scale, this new technology would offer substantial advantages compared to the highest performance methods currently in use:

• Offers a printing process that is up to five times faster than direct metal 3D printing;

• Has the ability to work with all types of metals (including titanium, Inconel, cobalt-chrome, etc.);

• Resolves problems related to health, safety, and the environment (with a process that does not produce fine particles, using very fine powders);

• Reduces overall operation time and production costs;

• Requires less energy, as the energy normally used to fuse metal is provided by an oven and not a laser;

• Provides a very high degree of precision that is not possible with current metal 3D printing technology.

Prodways says it is still facing numerous challenges in development, but this first successful production, a result of a 2-year research study, is a major step forward.

Furthermore, Prodways obtained the first conclusive results in refining the process by using MOVINGLight® technology for indirect fabrication of metal parts. These technologies, such as the lost wax casting process, can make tools, master patterns, or unique moulds that make it possible to fabricate high performance metal parts. In particular, this technology can create master pattern geometries that are more complex. Prodways is also developing new resins that can optimize this technology for casting metal parts. This indirect process, which is often used in the aeronautic and automotive industries, is currently being tested at several leading companies in these sectors.

Lastly, the group notes that with a fleet of approximately 10 machines dedicated to metal, and more than 10 years of experience in the sector, Initial is one of the largest French players in metal 3D printing parts production (titanium, Inconel, etc.). The Prodways subsidiary also has reinforced its offer by acquiring a new metal fusing machine so that it can optimally meet the requirements of the aeronautics and medical sectors.

Changes are sweeping the metal 3D printing technology industry, with General Electric's $1.4 billion buyout of the two biggest players in the sector. The Prodways group, a subsidiary of Groupe Gorgé, intends to strengthen its efforts in metal additive manufacturing to enrich its offer.

Ivoclar Vivadent announced the launch of its new and enhanced website, ivoclarvivadent.com, which it calls "a unique online experience that streamlines a variety of resources, including shopping and education, all in one place."

Designed to support the varying needs of today’s dental laboratory, the new site features everything from e-commerce, to product information and comparisons, to technical videos and education. With an ever-evolving digital experience, Ivoclar Vivadent says its dental laboratory partners can increase efficiencies, streamline processes, and maintain a clear line of communication.

Optimized search and navigation capabilities make finding relevant information even easier. The enhanced content, including new images, videos, and resource center, provides up-to-date information about Ivoclar Vivadent materials and products. The site also includes product comparison charts detailing the features and benefits of related product offerings.

With convenient payment options, including credit card usage, shopping via the new Ivoclar Vivadent website can save laboratories valuable time. Quick order processing is available and customers can also check shipping and freight costs online. For more personalized service, “live chat” operators are available for additional assistance.

The new website also features technical tips showcasing problem-solving solutions. Laboratory technicians can easily register for ICDE hands-on education programs, as well as stay connected to Ivoclar Vivadent via social media and blog activities.

“At Ivoclar Vivadent, we understand the diverse needs of today’s dental laboratory,” says Robert Ganley, CEO of Ivoclar Vivadent. “With that in mind, we provide our customers with multiple resources and channels for obtaining information, ordering products, and staying connected with us. We call this our 'Best Practice, Best Partner Promise!'”

Other highlights of the new website include online tax calculation, integration of barcode scanning technology, and automatic password reset.

Vista Dental Products, the leader in endodontic irrigation, introduces the world’s only Dripless Syringe™. These patent pending syringes feature anti-drip technology, greatly reducing the risk of bleach stains, damage to skin, eyes and oral mucosa, and cost no more than a standard irrigating syringe.

Dripless Syringe features a unique color coded plunger to quickly identify NaOCl, and color coded ring for improved visibility in magnified fields. 

It is available in untipped and pre-tipped 6cc and 12cc syringes. 

Dripless Syringe is another example of Vista Dental Product’s dedication to more safely and effectively achieve endodontic success. To find out more information, visit vista-dental.com or call 877-418-4782. 

*Spencer HR, Ike V, Brennan PA. Review: the use of sodium hypochlorite in endodontics—potential complications and their management. Br Dent J. 2007;202(9):555-559. 

CHICAGO, October 3 –Whether by choice, by culture or by need, grandfamilies are more commonplace with one-in-ten children residing fulltime in their grandparents’ homes. Grandfamilies face unique challenges, including those related to oral health as demonstrated by Oral Health America’s 2016 Public Opinion Poll conducted by Wakefield Research which revealed 57% of grandparents reported having put off their own dental care to accommodate the cost of their child’s dental care needs.

Oral Health America’s Fall for Smiles campaign focuses on the oral health of families,  and encourages everyone to spread the word about the positive effects of daily brushing and flossing, regular dental visits, eating a healthy diet and avoiding tobacco products. This year’s campaign highlights “grandfamilies” or kinship care to address the oral health issues that impact young and older generations.

Oral Health America is grateful for the Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention; the National Dental Association; and Crosstex Dentapure, all of which support Fall for Smiles as partners. The Fall for Smiles campaign includes free and interactive resources such as a quiz, brushing chart, coloring sheet and health tips for the whole family.

Fall for Smiles is generously sponsored by 3M; Trident; Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait, an initiative of Dental Trade Alliance; Patterson Dental; Hu-Friedy; Midmark Corporation; SciCan, Inc.; Septodont USA; Sunstar Americas, Inc.; Whip Mix Corporation; the Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention; National Dental Association; and Crosstex Dentapure.

Learn more about Fall for Smiles at oralhealthamerica.org/fallforsmiles.

Because infections can be so dangerous, "surgeons and dentists prefer to err on the side of caution in the most high-risk patients," said Robert H. Quinn, MD, AUC section leader, AAOS Committee on Evidence-Based Quality and Value. And yet, antibiotic overuse throughout the health care system has made many types of bacteria resistant to treatment.

"These guidelines will hopefully help to decrease antibiotic use in patients with artificial joints, but still provide reasonable scenarios when they might be considered," said Dr. Quinn.

The AUC, available through the AAOS OrthoGuidelines website and app, includes questions for clinicians to gauge risk related to the type of dental procedure, given the patient's implant status and overall health. There are 64 scenarios, each with an antibiotic "appropriateness rating" from 1 to 9, determined by a 14-member voting panel of orthopaedic surgeons, dentists, oral surgeons and epidemiologists. A rating between 7 and 9 means that antibiotic use is "appropriate for the indication provided…and is likely to improve the patient's health outcomes or survival." With a rating of 4 to 6, antibiotics "may be appropriate;" and 1 to 3, "rarely appropriate." Specific antibiotics and dosage are provided for scenarios when antibiotic treatment is recommended.

CHICAGO – A recent study published in the journal Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety questions whether people with multiple dental amalgam fillings experience an increase in mercury levels in their blood. The American Dental Association has examined the study and its findings and reaffirms its position that dental amalgam is a durable, safe and effective cavity-filling option.

The mercury levels cited in the study did not exceed a level that according to the National Academy of Sciences would be known to cause adverse health effects. Thus, no conclusions about the safety of dental amalgam should be drawn from this study. In addition, the study used data that included two different types of dental materials: composite, which does not contain mercury and dental amalgam, made from a combination of metals including silver, copper, tin and mercury. It is important to note that since the study does not differentiate between the two filling materials, the study’s findings may be prone to over-interpretation. 

Dental amalgam has been studied and reviewed extensively by US public health agencies, and has a long-established record of safety and effectiveness. To learn more, read the ADA’s statement on dental amalgam.

Patients should consult with their dentists to decide which filling material is best for them based on a number of factors, such as size and location of the cavity, patient history, cosmetic concerns and cost. The American Dental Association offers information about all dental filling materials at MouthHealthy.org.

CHICAGO, Oct. 3, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The 46th Annual Session of the American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) will be held in San Diego from Oct. 5-8, 2016. More than 1,000 dental health professionals will be attending, along with speakers from around the world. The overarching topic of the 2016 Annual Session is "Prosthodontics: The Intersection of Art & Technology."

"Technology is revealing new ways to do things we have been doing for years, and it is significantly advancing what is possible in health, function, and beauty," said John R. Agar, DDS, MA, FACP, the Annual Session Program Chair. "Specialty training and continuing education in new technologies make new levels of patient care seem almost magical, yet this is what we embrace and strive to do as prosthodontists."

The ACP Annual Session provides learning that can transform the effectiveness of specialized dental practices based in prosthodontics. Practitioners will share how they have handled the most challenging topics in prosthodontics, and how they've improved their practices with new technologies for diagnosis and treatment.

"Dentistry has taken incredible leaps forward in the past decade. Prosthodontists are at the forefront of this innovation, applying their advanced training and commitment to life-long learning while using state-of-the-art digital dentistry tools to help patients save time, visits, and expenses," ACP President Carl F. Driscoll, DMD, FACP, added.

Prosthodontists are dentists who specialize in restoring, replacing, and renewing teeth as well as smiles. Patients go to prosthodontists to improve their oral health outcomes.

The ACP is the only prosthodontics specialty organization whose membership is based solely on education credentials. ACP members must be in or have completed an ADA-accredited advanced education program in prosthodontics.

CHICAGO, September 28– Whether by choice, by culture or by need, grandfamilies are more commonplace with one-in-ten children residing fulltime in their grandparents’ homes. Grandfamilies face unique challenges, including those related to oral health as demonstrated by Oral Health America’s 2016 Public Opinion Poll conducted by Wakefield Research which revealed 57% of grandparents reported having put off their own dental care to accommodate the cost of their child’s dental care needs.

Oral Health America’s Fall for Smiles campaign focuses on the oral health of families,  and encourages everyone to spread the word about the positive effects of daily brushing and flossing, regular dental visits, eating a healthy diet and avoiding tobacco products. This year’s campaign highlights “grandfamilies” or kinship care to address the oral health issues that impact young and older generations.

Midmark supports Fall for Smiles by encouraging dental professional to engage their patients and communities using downloadable resources and tools. These resources include a coloring sheet, interactive quizzes, brushing chart, and oral health tips for the whole family.

Fall for Smiles is generously sponsored by 3M; Trident; Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait, an initiative of Dental Trade Alliance; Patterson Dental; Hu-Friedy; Midmark Corporation; SciCan, Inc.; Septodont USA; Sunstar Americas, Inc.; Whip Mix Corporation; the Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention; National Dental Association; and Crosstex Dentapure.

Learn more about Fall for Smiles at oralhealthamerica.org/fallforsmiles.