The Use of Chemotherapeutics in Dental Practice: An Overview

Title: The Use of Chemotherapeutics in Dental Practice: An Overview

Abstract:

The use of both therapeutic and cosmetic products is widely used in dentistry and these products may play an adjunctive role in maintaining oral health. For practical purposes these products can be placed into the following categories, namely: )1dental caries prevention, 2) reduction of sensitivity, 3) reduction of calculus formation, 4) formation, reduction of gingivitis, and 5) tooth whitening effect(s). The use of chemical rinses for the prevention and/or control has been documented in the published literature and have been beneficial in reducing the impact of oral bacteria prior, during and following treatment. There are several therapeutic rinses that have been used for home use and these include 1) Phenolic-Related Essential Oils, 2) Triclosan, 3) Chlorhexidine, 4) Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Cetylpyridinium Chloride), 5) Oraldene, 6) Paradontax, 7) Miscellaneous including herbal extracts, Chlorine Dioxide, oxygenating agents, enzymes, metal salts. The efficacy of these products as reported in the published literature will be reviewed to determine whether any claims associated with these products can be supported. The information included in this presentation may be used as a resource when discussing which products would be beneficial in the treatment of dental conditions.

Biography:

David Geoffrey Gillam graduated from Edinburgh Dental School in 1977 and has been actively involved in Dentistry for over 45 years. He has worked in both clinical practice and university dental hospitals, as well as in industry (1998-2001), initially with SmithKline Beecham and later with Block Drug Company. From 2003 to 2008, he worked with a Clinical Research Organization as a Research Dentist. He also served as a full-time Clinical Reader (Associate Professor) in Translational Research related to Dentistry at Bart’s and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL in London (2009-2022). Currently, David is a part-time Professor at QMUL, although he no longer practices dentistry. His primary research interest lies in Periodontology, particularly the management of dentine hypersensitivity, and he has also developed an interest in the development of dental materials for both professional and consumer use. David has published over 100 papers on various dental topics and has contributed to several books, both as an Editor and as a chapter contributor.