Your Health: Oct. 26, 1998

GOOD NEWS FOR TEETH

Visiting the dentist may have just become easier. The FDA has approved Millennium, a laser-powered drill that uses a stream of water instead of metal blades to excavate tooth surfaces. The advantage: Millennium causes less pain than conventional drills, and it doesn’t emit that hair-raising high-pitched whine.

BAD NEWS ON MICROWAVING

Don’t pop any old plastic container in the microwave. Federal health authorities are concerned that chemicals from some plastics may leach into food. To protect yourself, cook only in containers labeled microwave safe (no margarine tubs or cottage-cheese cartons), don’t nuke plastic wraps and don’t recycle trays for microwavable entrees; they’re for one-time use only.

GOOD NEWS ON PARKINSON’S

Scientists report a promising new treatment for Parkinson’s disease. A study of advanced and even bedridden cases shows that electrically stimulating the brain with implanted electrodes reduces symptoms dramatically. Indeed, most patients who underwent the procedure were well enough to perform everyday tasks again–even while cutting back on their medication.

BAD NEWS ON MILK

Is your child chronically constipated? The cause may be a common allergy to milk. Italian researchers report that constipation cleared up in 68% of children ages one to six who switched from cow’s milk to soy.

–By Janice M. Horowitz

Sources: FDA; Wall Street Journal; New England Journal of Medicine (3,4)