The aims of this study were to compare test-retest variability and accuracy measures between (1) manual palpation and a novel palpometer and (2) different force levels. Sixteen clinicians were instructed to target 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 kg on a force meter using manual palpation and the new palpometer (adjustable spring-coil with a small pin touching the examiner’s hand when the correct pressure is reached). In all experiments, 10 consecutive measures of the force levels were recorded. The coefficient of variation (CV), actual force levels, and relative differences between target level and actual force level were compared between experiments and target levels. All outcome parameters had significantly lower values for the new palpometer than for manual palpation in a force-dependent manner (p < 0.004). CVs and actual force levels were significantly different between all target levels (p < 0.004). The new palpometer had low test-retest variability and provides a more accurate pressure stimulus than manual palpation.

Background: To systematically review the current literature investigating the association between oral health and acquired brain injury. Methods: A structured search strategy was applied to PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CENTRAL electronic databases until March 2017 by 2 independent reviewers. The preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis guidelines were used for systematic review. Results: Even though the objective was to assess the association between oral health and acquired brain injury, eligible studies focused solely on different forms of stroke and stroke subtypes. Stroke prediction was associated with various factors such as number of teeth, periodontal conditions (even after controlling for confounding factors), clinical attachment loss, antibody levels to Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Prevotella intermedia. The literature showed no consensus on the possible association between gingivitis and stroke. Patients with stroke generally had poorer oral hygiene practices and oral health. Dental prophylaxis and professional intervention reduced the incidence of stroke. Conclusions: Overall, oral health and stroke were related. Periodontitis and tooth loss were independently associated with stroke. However, prevention and timely intervention may reduce the risk of stroke. Stroke was the main cerebral lesion studied in the literature, with almost no publications on other brain lesions.