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RESEARCH
News & Research.
Learn about oral health equity, public health, and access to care through research and insights developed by members of the Project Smile Global Research Committee.
The Importance of Tailored Oral Health Education for Students, Cultural Groups, and Communities
Oral health education is essential to overall well-being, influencing habits, disease prevention, and quality of life. Early, school-based learning helps build lifelong hygiene practices, while culturally tailored approaches improve accessibility and trust in diverse communities. However, disparities persist due to socioeconomic and geographic barriers. Strengthening education through community programs, policy, and modern tools like digital platforms can promote lasting beha
Oct 3, 20258 min read
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Xylitol’s Potential for Cavity Prevention to Reduce Oral Health Disparities
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that reduces Streptococcus mutans activity, plaque formation, and enamel demineralization, lowering dental caries risk. Research from the Turku Sugar Studies and clinical trials shows xylitol gum and snacks significantly reduce bacteria and improve oral health in children. Its use in candies, gums, and school or prenatal programs offers a scalable preventive strategy, though further research is needed on delivery methods and effectiveness.
Jan 1, 20255 min read
Too Sweet: The Relationship Between Excessive Sugar Intake and Oral Health
Halloween candy consumption highlights how frequent sugar intake increases the risk of dental caries, especially in children and adolescents. Sugars like sucrose fuel bacterial biofilms that produce acids, lowering oral pH and causing enamel demineralization. Marketing and socioeconomic factors further shape children’s diets, increasing exposure to sugary foods. Preventive care including fluoride use, brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene education helps reduce sugar-driven to
Oct 21, 20248 min read
Connections Between Nutrition and Oral Health
One often overlooked aspect of overall health is oral health, which focuses on the well-being of the mouth, gums, and teeth. Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by providing essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins that support tooth and gum structure. A balanced diet helps strengthen enamel, support saliva production, and reduce the risk of dental decay, especially in underserved communities with limited access to nutritious food.
Sep 24, 20249 min read
Pediatric Dental Month: The Issue of Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Baby bottle tooth decay is a common childhood condition caused by frequent exposure to sugars from milk or juice, especially during sleep. Bacteria break down these sugars into acid, weakening tooth enamel and leading to cavities. This issue is more prevalent in underserved communities with limited access to dental education. Preventive steps include avoiding bottle use at bedtime, maintaining early oral hygiene, and scheduling regular dental visits to protect children’s oral
Feb 12, 20243 min read
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