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Explorations
SCHOOL OF DENTAL MEDICINE
Dr. Athena S. Papas
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Dr. Athena S. Papas is at the forefront of research into a common
drug side effect that can lead to devastating oral- health problems.
She documents the causes and consequences of dry mouth, known medically
as xerostomia, which is listed as a side effect of nearly 500 drugs.
Without saliva, which flushes cavity-causing bacteria from the mouth,
bacteria multiply rapidly, causing decay, and putting dry-mouth
sufferers at risk for fungal infections, gum disease and nutrition
problems. Papas, professor of oral medicine and co-head of the Division
of Geriatric Dentistry at the School of Dental Medicine, has examined
the processes by which the condition undermines a healthy mouth
as well as the effectiveness of preventative treatments, from saliva-inducing
medications to remineralizing rinses. According to Papas, the need
for such research is gaining with the increasing use of prescription
drugs that may cause dry mouth, particularly those for depression,
anxiety and hypertension. Antihistamines, the new stop-smoking drug
Zyban and some acne medications also cause dry mouth. "Without
scientific evidence about the disease mechanisms and preventative
measures," she says, "the medical and dental community
is less able to help patients take effective action. Unless we do
large population studies that show dry mouth causes these problems,
then education about the consequences and warnings about the dental
risks will not be comprehensive enough, and communication to doctors,
dentists and patients will be lacking. The prescribing doctor needs
to be aware and must explain to patients that dry mouth is a side
effect that puts them at risk for dental decay." Papas' studies
have tested a variety of other interventions, including remineralizing
toothpaste, and fluoride and antibacterial varnishes. For 20 years,
Papas' patients lacking saliva have also successfully prevented
decay and disease by following her directions using Caphasol and
fluoride and sticking to a rigorous regimen of intervention. Linda
Hall
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