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. 2024 Aug 21:5:1398897.
doi: 10.3389/fdmed.2024.1398897. eCollection 2024.

Integration of precision medicine into the dental care setting

Larissa Steigmann  1 , Željka Perić Kačarević  2 , Jessica Khoury  3 , Katalin Nagy  4 , Magda Feres  1
Affiliations

Integration of precision medicine into the dental care setting

Larissa Steigmann et al. Front Dent Med. .

Abstract

This narrative review aims to discuss the incorporation of novel medical concepts and tools into dental practice, with the goal of improving early diagnosis and exploring new personalized treatment options for oral pathologies, such as caries and periodontitis. Preventative dental approaches concentrate on the timely detection of oral infections and the integration of biomarker analysis to recognize pathogenic changes at early stage of disease. Likewise, periodic monitoring after the treatment is relevant to ensure the balance in the oral biofilms and prevent relapse. Additionally, more attention has shifted towards the contributing factors to disease development, such as essential nutrients. Sufficient levels of vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc pre- and post-operatively are employed to boost immune function and reduce the risk of postoperative infections. Omega-3 fatty acids, melatonin, and antioxidants like vitamin E, which have anti-inflammatory properties, are utilized to help minimize excessive inflammation and promote faster recovery. The data presented in this manuscript emphasize the crucial integration of innovative healthcare concepts and tools into dental practices. By adopting a more holistic view of the patient, clinicians can tailor treatments to each individual's predispositions, lifestyle, and oral health conditions. This review also highlights the potential of salivary biomarkers and point-of-care technologies in enhancing early diagnostic accuracy and personalizing treatment. Bridging the gap between oral and systemic health is the most effective approach to improving patient quality of life. These findings underscore the importance of continued interdisciplinary collaboration in dentistry.

Keywords: biomarkers; periodontal diseases; point-of-care; precision medicine; primary care; salivary testing.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Overview of factors contributing to decreased oral health (left, red arrows) and factors enhancing dental health (right, green arrows).
Figure 2
Figure 2
Exemplar workflow of a dental treatment plan with integrated personalized approach.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Overview of personalized medicine approaches in the dental health practice.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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