IADR PRESS RELEASES

Alexandria, Va., USA — COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic in March 2020 and given an incomplete understanding of the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 at that time, the American Dental Association recommended that dental offices refrain from providing non-emergency services. As a result, 198,000 dentists in the United States closed their doors to patients. The study “Sources of SARS-CoV-2 and Other Microorganisms in Dental Aerosols,” published in the Journal of Dental Research (JDR), sought to inform infection-control science by identifying the source of bacteria and viruses in aerosol generating dental procedures.

Alexandria, Va., USA — Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a byproduct of human metabolism and exists in high levels in exhaled air, and is therefore often used as a proxy for indoor air quality. The study “Ventilation Assessment by Carbon Dioxide Levels in Dental Treatment Rooms,” published in the Journal of Dental Research (JDR), evaluated CO₂ levels in dental operatories and determined the accuracy of using CO₂ levels to assess ventilation rate in dental clinics.

April 5, 2021, Alexandria, Va., USA — The American Association of Dental Research (AADR) continues to be saddened by the divisiveness in modern society. As a research association with an inclusive yet diverse membership, we stand against all forms of discrimination, harassment and violence. The recent tragic events in Atlanta, Ga. and the increase in hate crimes against Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in the United States over the past year, remind us that our country needs to take decisive steps to address racism and xenophobia.

Alexandria, Va., USA — Asymptomatic carriage of SARS-CoV-2 is a potentially significant source of transmission, yet remains relatively poorly understood. The study “SARS-CoV-2 Positivity in Asymptomatic-screened Dental Patients” published in the Journal of Dental Research (JDR), investigated SARS-CoV-2 infection in asymptomatic dental patients to inform community surveillance and improve understanding of risks in the dental setting.

Alexandria, Va., USA — Oral mucositis and taste dysfunction (dysgeusia) occurs in nearly all patients receiving head and neck radiotherapy and tremendously affects the quality of life and treatment outcome. The study “LiCl Promotes Recovery of Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis and Dysgeusia” published in the Journal of Dental Research (JDR), investigated the hypothesis that lithium chloride (LiCl) can promote the restoration of oral mucosa integrity and taste function after radiation.