New research paradigm.

Scientists are looking at a variety of ways to prevent disease and help insure wellness across the lifespan. Health and disease are linked to human behavior, environment, and biology. Biological influences are many, including a person's sex. Age-old infectious diseases continue to warrant out attention, whether they are acute or chronic. Changing models of disease are focusing on quality of life issues, taking into account the physiological and social influences that affect one's life from cradle to grave. This article reviews recent discoveries in the area of antibiotics, premedication, genetics, obesity, tongue piercing, and tongue splitting. As oral health care professionals, dental hygienists should be aware of the latest trends in research, and models of disease prevention and maintenance of wellness.