Stress and Tooth Structure Loss in Dental Students.
This study is investigating how stress and eating habits might affect tooth wear in dental students. We're using a special handheld scanner to take pictures of their teeth at different times during their studies. Participants will also fill out questionnaires about their stress levels and what they eat. This helps us understand if there's a link between these factors and how teeth might wear down. This initial study, called a 'pilot,' is important because it helps us test our methods and plan for a larger, more detailed study later on. The goal is to learn more about keeping our teeth healthy, especially when facing daily stresses.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is looking into a common dental problem called tooth wear, which is when your teeth gradually lose their surface. We specifically want to see if there's a link between how much stress dental students experience and their eating habits, and how this might affect their teeth.
To do this, we'll be using a special device called an 'intraoral scanner.' Think of it like a small wand that takes digital pictures of your teeth to create a 3D model. This lets us carefully track any changes in tooth wear over time. Along with the scans, students will answer questions about their stress levels and what they usually eat, which helps us understand other factors that might play a role.
This is a 'pilot study,' meaning it's a smaller, early stage of research. The information we gather will help us make sure our methods are working well and will guide us in planning a larger, more detailed study in the future. Ultimately, we hope to learn more about preventing tooth wear and keeping teeth healthy for everyone.
Key takeaways
- Study looks at stress, diet, and tooth wear in dental students.
- Uses a harmless 3D digital scanner for teeth pictures.
- Participation involves three short visits (under 45 minutes each).
- Primarily for dental students at TU Dresden (2023 semester).
- Aims to help plan bigger studies for better dental health insights.
- Your academic standing is not affected by participation.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for current dental students who are taking the Dental Prosthetics I course in the summer of 2023 at the Technical University of Dresden. You need to be between 18 and 40 years old.
For your teeth, you need to have at least one pair of your first molars (back teeth) present, one on the top and one on the bottom, that bite together. Your other teeth should generally be all there, or if you have any gaps, they must be completely closed up to your first molars.
You would not be able to join if you have fillings or crowns that cover a lot of the biting surface of the specific molars we're looking at, or if you wear removable dentures. Also, if you're currently having orthodontic treatment (like braces), or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, you wouldn't be able to take part. We also need to make sure you fully understand what the study involves and that you're able to complete all the study visits.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you a dental student at TU Dresden taking Dental Prosthetics I in summer 2023?
- Are you between 18 and 40 years old?
- Do you have at least one pair of your first molar teeth (top and bottom) that meet?
- Do you have mostly all your natural teeth or fully closed gaps up to your first molars?
- Are you not currently pregnant, breastfeeding, or having orthodontic treatment?
- Do you have no extensive fillings on the biting surfaces of your first molars?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll have three short visits. The first visit, called the baseline, will happen early in your 8th semester. The second and third visits will be at the start of your 10th semester and after your final exams.
At each visit, a study doctor or student will use a small handheld scanner to take pictures of your teeth. This scan only takes about 10 minutes. You'll also be asked to fill out questionnaires about your stress levels and eating habits. We'll also take some basic information about your medical and dental history. Each full visit, including the scans and questionnaires, will take no more than 45 minutes. The total duration of your participation will be from your 8th semester until after your final state examination.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Department of Dental Prosthetics, Dental Division of the University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität DresdenVerified postcodeDresden, Germany
Common questions
What is tooth wear?
Tooth wear is when the surface of your teeth gradually wears away, often naturally over time, but it can be made worse by things like diet or certain habits.
What is an intraoral scanner?
It's a small, handheld device that creates a 3D digital image of your teeth, kind of like a very precise camera.
Will this study affect my grades?
No, taking part in or leaving the study will not affect your academic performance or standing at the university.
How long will each visit take?
Each study visit, including the scan and questionnaires, will take no longer than 45 minutes.
Do I have to do anything special before my appointments?
No, you don't need to do anything special before your appointments. Just come as you are.
How to find out more
Elzbieta Pacek, Dr.
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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