PR in Person, Inc.

08/06/2026

A tongue piercing may seem like a simple form of self-expression, but it can also affect oral health in ways many people don't expect.

Every time the metal jewelry contacts the teeth, it can place repeated stress on the enamel. Over months or years, this may increase the risk of chipped or cracked teeth, enamel wear, gum recession, and irritation of the surrounding soft tissues. Because the mouth naturally contains hundreds of species of bacteria, a fresh piercing also creates an opportunity for infection—especially if proper aftercare is not followed.

A 2025 scientific literature review found consistent evidence linking tongue piercings to complications such as tooth fractures, enamel damage, gingival recession, infections, and other oral problems. The American Dental Association (ADA) also advises against cosmetic oral piercings because the potential health risks outweigh the cosmetic benefits.

Many people wear tongue jewelry without experiencing major problems, but understanding the possible risks can help in making an informed decision and recognizing complications early.

Sources • Rojas-Rueda S, et al. Impact of Tongue Piercings on Oral Health: A Narrative Literature Review. Clin Pract. 2025.
• American Dental Association (ADA): Oral Piercing/Jewelry guidance.

08/05/2026

Most people think the morning brush is the most important. Research suggests the bedtime brush may matter even more.

During sleep, saliva production naturally decreases, reducing the mouth's ability to wash away plaque and bacteria. As a result, dental plaque can remain undisturbed for hours, creating an environment that may promote bacterial growth and inflammation.

In a study published in Scientific Reports, researchers examined whether the timing of toothbrushing was associated with cardiovascular outcomes. People who brushed their teeth before bed—whether or not they also brushed in the morning—had a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular events than those who skipped nighttime brushing. Interestingly, brushing only in the morning did not show the same association.

The researchers suggest that removing dental plaque before sleep may help reduce the overnight bacterial burden. Because this was an observational study, the findings show an association rather than proving cause and effect.

Brushing before bed takes only a few minutes, yet it remains one of the simplest evidence-based habits for protecting oral health—and it may also support overall health.

Reference:
Isomura ET, Suna S, Kurakami H, et al. Not brushing teeth at night may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Scientific Reports. 2023.

08/01/2026

08/01/2026

Growing evidence suggests that oral health and heart health may be more closely connected than once thought.

A systematic review found that poor oral health—particularly periodontitis (gum disease)—is associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common type of irregular heartbeat. AF is a serious condition that can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications.

Researchers believe chronic gum inflammation may contribute to this relationship by allowing oral bacteria and inflammatory molecules to enter the bloodstream, where they may influence cardiovascular health. However, the current evidence shows an association, not proof that gum disease directly causes atrial fibrillation.

The review concluded that maintaining good oral hygiene and treating periodontal disease may support overall health while emphasizing that more high-quality research is needed to better understand this relationship.

Healthy gums are important not only for protecting teeth but also as part of maintaining long-term overall health.

📄 Reference: PMCID: PMC9280496

07/28/2026

Some wisdom teeth are just too lazy to come in the right way. (CC: clearlyacliffhanger.blogspot.com)

07/28/2026

One of Dentistry's Oldest Filling Materials Is Gradually Being Phased Down.

For more than 180 years, dental amalgam (silver fillings) has been a reliable way to restore decayed teeth. Today, many countries are gradually reducing its use—not because it has suddenly become unsafe, but because tooth-colored alternatives have improved, and global efforts are aiming to reduce mercury pollution.

The Minamata Convention on Mercury, an international environmental treaty signed by more than 140 countries, encourages a gradual phase-down of dental amalgam while promoting effective mercury-free restorative materials where appropriate.

The transition is expected to occur over many years, and existing amalgam fillings that are intact generally do not need to be replaced solely because they contain mercury. Dentists recommend replacing fillings only when there is a clinical reason to do so.

Sources: WHO • UNEP Minamata Convention • ADA • FDA • FDI World Dental Federation