RDH news: Fluoride-free tablets match leading toothpaste brand, new dental AI platform makes waves, surprising insights from AABD meeting
Fluoride-free tablets just as effective in preventing caries
Fluoride-free tablets may be just as effective as the leading fluoride toothpaste brand when it comes to caries prevention. A recent seven-day, independent study revealed that NOBS by biöm matched the protection of America's top fluoride toothpaste.1
Researchers from the University of Texas tested the efficacy of NOBS tablets through a clinical trial involving fluoride toothpaste, a placebo, and no brushing at all. Results showed that NOBS reduced enamel erosion by 50% (compared to no brushing) and outperformed placebos by more than double.1
NOBS is developed with 5% clinical-grade nano-hydroxyapatite to strengthen enamel, xylitol to fight bacteria, and zinc citrate to control plaque. More information about this study is available here.1
Cutting-edge Ai tool may change the future of dentistry
ChatGPT is arguably the progenitor for the diverse assortment of AI platforms available today, but some users are hesitant to trust the accuracy of its information. AskDentistry.ai is a new AI platform for dental clinicians that is trained on peer-reviewed articles and clinical guidelines. It is designed to answer complex questions or knowledge about discipline-specific topics without users worrying about receiving inaccurate responses.2
Dr. Mateus Rocha, associate professor at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, addressed concerns of accuracy in a recent press conference. He said: "As a clinical professor and AI researcher, I need confidence that every response is anchored in peer-reviewed, reputable sources I can verify. AskDentistry.ai reveals the exact references behind each answer, allowing me to double-check a material's clinical indication, advise a student or colleague on a procedure, or delegate a supply fact-check to my assistant."2
AskDentistry.ai also includes a Pro version that directly links the sources it uses to generate its responses. This way, users can access the evidence themselves and cross-check the information provided by the chatbot.
You can try AskDentistry.ai for yourself here.
AABD's discusses challenges in recent meeting
The American Association of Dental Boards (AABD) recently held their mid-year meeting in Chicago, Illinois. They gathered dental representatives from 33 states to discuss trending topics such as fluoridation, internationally educated providers, and the surge of unauthorized/unlicensed dental practices in the United States.3
Arthur Chen-Shu Jee, AADB's president of the board of directors said: "This gathering emphasized the importance of unifying our efforts to preserve state boards' rights and address the evolving challenges in the dental industry. Our commitment to fostering collaboration and advancing dental practice standards remains steadfast."3
The AABD also selected new caucus chairs for 2025 and 2026: Dr. Frank Maggio for the North, Dr. Melodie Jones for the South, Dr. Maxine Feinberg for the East, and Dr. Krista Jones for the West.
References
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Amaechi BT, Kanthaiah K, Farah R, et al. Evaluation of the efficacy of a dentifrice tablet to prevent dental caries: a microbial study. Dent J. 2025; 13(5):201. https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13050201
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AskDentistry.ai launches world's first evidence-based AI platform for dentistry. AskDentistry.ai. May 13, 2025.
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Regulators discuss challenges in dentistry at Chicago meeting. American Association of Dental Boards. May 5, 2025.
