Dental Tribune United Kingdom Edition

A study published in Annals of Oncology has revealed that acupuncture can re- lieve symptoms of xerostomia. Dry mouth is a common side effect of radiotherapy, and as many as 41 per cent can still be suffering from it five years after treatment. Doctors at seven cancer centres in the UK recruited 145 people suffering from radiation- induced xerostomia. The researchers found there were no significant changes in saliva production; however individual symptoms were sig- nificantly improved among the group receiving acupuncture. Dr Richard Simcock, one of the authors of the study, said: “The amount of saliva produced does not necessarily influence the experience of a dry mouth. Xerostomia is therefore an en- tirely subjective symptom – it is what the patient says it is, regardless of salivary measure- ment.” The researchers say that fur- ther studies are needed to refine the acupuncture technique, but they believe that it could be eas- ily incorporated into the care of patients with xerostomia. DT Acupuncture can relieve dry mouth Do you have an opinion or some- thing to say on any Dental Tribune UK article? Or would you like to write your own opinion for our guest comment page? If so don’t hesitate to write to: The Editor, Dental Tribune UK Ltd, 4th Floor, Treasure House, 19-21 Hatton Garden, London, EC1 8BA Or email: lisa@healthcare-learning.com Editorial comment United Kingdom Edition February 11-17, 2013 3News L ast week I watched a fascinating we- binar by Louis Mac- Kenzie on Minimally Invasive dentistry. The sec- ond in Healthcare Learning: Smile-on’s 2013 webinar se- ries, Louis’ webinar looked at the minimally invasive man- agement of restored teeth. I must admit, I am a big fan of webinars. They are a great way of gaining knowledge without the hassle of travel. Many of the ones I watch that are related to publishing etc are produced in America, an expensive pastime if I was to go see them in person! I also love the fact that I can curl up on my sofa or cook dinner whilst watching. There’s a lot to be said for the comforts of home when understanding the intrica- cies of perio disease or matrix bands! So, if you’ve never experi- enced a webinar, take a look at www.dentalwebinars.co.uk register and take a look at the archive. Here you will be able to watch the format and get a feel for how they work before embarking on your first live experience! Upcoming webinars in- clude: Feb 21 Anthony Rob- erts The clinician’s role and patient’s responsibilities in the management of perio- dontal disease; Feb 26 Anoop Maini Short Term Orthodon- tics for the GDP; March 5 Colin Campbell Getting Seri- ous about Implantology with the ITI. See you at the webinar! DT