Odovtos - International Journal of Dental Sciences

Chemical-Mechanical Agents Versus Rotary Systems for Caries Removal: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The purpose of this systematic review was to compare the efficacy and efficiency of chemical-mechanical agents (CMA) versus rotary systems (RS) for the removal of dental caries (DC) in permanent molars. The search was carried out in five electronic databases (PubMed, Ebsco, Scopus, ScienceDirect, LILACS) and gray literature, complemented with a manual search in impact journals until July 2022 in English, Spanish and Portuguese. The efficacy of DC treatment was analyzed histologically, microbiologically, radiographically, or physicochemical-mechanically and efficiency was evaluated according to the shortest time for removal. Risk of bias was assessed with the RoB tool. Nine studies were included out of 914 publications that evaluated 337 molars with split design treated with low- or high-speed RS and CMA, such as Carisolv, Papacarie, Carie Care and Brix 3000. Significant differences were found among the studies (p<0.05), with Carisolv presenting a higher amount of residual caries, the presence of bacteria in dentin and less extent or volume of extracted caries, while Papacarie showed an absence of smear in dentin tubules and RS obtained higher microhardness values and required less time for removal. There was no difference between the two methods with respect to calcium-phosphorus titration or bond strength (p≥0.05). CMAs removed DC with less invasion to sound dentin tissues compared to RS, but reduced surface hardness and required a longer removal time.

Exploring the Complexities of Temporomandibular Joint Function and Dysfunction: A Contemporary Review

Varun Vinayak, K. Anisha Ram, Jithesh Chandran — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This contemporary review delves into the intricate realm of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function and dysfunction, shedding light on its multifaceted nature and offering insights into diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. The TMJ, a vital component of the craniofacial complex, plays a pivotal role in everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. Understanding its anatomy and physiology is paramount in the treatment and management of TMJ dysfunction. The biomechanics of TMJ function, from the articular disc to the surrounding ligaments and muscles, have been explored comprehensively. A critical aspect of this review revolves around the diverse etiological factors contributing to TMJ dysfunction. Genetic predispositions, parafunctions, occlusal irregularities, and psychological stress are dissected to illuminate the roles of these factors in the development of TMJ disorders. These complexities prompted the need for a robust classification system elucidating the clinical manifestations and diagnostic criteria for various TMJ disorders. Modern diagnostic modalities, including clinical assessment, imaging techniques, and joint aspiration, are scrutinized for their indispensable roles in accurate diagnosis. The comprehensive overview included management strategies, from conservative measures to surgical interventions. In recognizing the pivotal influence of psychosocial factors, this review underscores the importance of patient-centered care and cognitive-behavioral interventions. Furthermore, regenerative therapies, minimally invasive techniques, and personalized medicine are emerging trends in TMJ research. This review provides a contemporary roadmap for comprehending, diagnosing, and managing TMJ-related conditions.

Uses of Chitosan-Based Hydrogels in Dentistry: A Systematic Review

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The objective of this article was to carry out a systematic review of the literature to determine the different therapeutic uses of chitosan-based hydrogels and their uses in dental therapy, as well as the modification and improvement of dental materials to promote research related to chitosan and its incorporation into dentistry as an adjunct or replacement in some dental treatments. Chitosan is a natural polymer obtained from the deacetylation of chitin, a polysaccharide abundant in nature, which, due to its biocompatibility, high biodegradability, non-antigenicity, and its ease of acquisition, has attracted biomedical interest, including in dentistry. Recent studies have shown that chitosan can be integrated into dental materials to obtain remineralizing effects, such as for antimicrobial agents, osteogenic agents, and pulp regeneration treatment. A bibliographic search was carried out in PubMed from 2018 to 2023. The results showed a wide range of uses for chitosan in the dental field, particularly its use as a remineralizing agent for tooth enamel; It has also been used in tissue regeneration mainly because of its osteogenic activity, as an antimicrobial agent, and as a vehicle for the application of medications. The use of chitosan as a nanobiomaterial is an interesting topic, since chitosan shows potential for new dental materials, either as an active ingredient or as an adjuvant vehicle for other materials.

Resorbable Osteosynthesis in Mandibular Fractures. An Exploratory Systematic Review

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Mandibular fractures have a high prevalence in the maxillofacial region, often requiring surgical intervention. The gold standard for treatment involves open reduction with osteosynthesis using titanium plates. New biocompatible materials have been applied to address the complications and disadvantages of titanium plates, leading to the emergence of absorbable osteosynthesis plates. Understanding the effectiveness of titanium plates and absorbable osteosynthesis plates in the treatment of mandibular fractures helps determine the need to invest in new techniques with predictable outcomes. To describe the effectiveness of using titanium plates and absorbable osteosynthesis plates in the treatment of mandibular fractures. In August 2023, an exploratory systematic review of the available literature since 2018 on the use of absorbable osteosynthesis plates in mandibular fractures was conducted. PubMed, Scopus, and WOS were searched, including studies in English or Spanish. A total of 227 articles were obtained. After reviewing titles and abstracts, 29 articles were included for full-text reading. Nine duplicates were discarded, and 10 were excluded based on predefined criteria, resulting in a total of 10 articles for this study. Authors report that titanium plates exhibit less displacement of the contact surface in fractured segments due to a larger surface area, rigidity, and load-bearing capacity. Absorbable osteosynthesis plates are more flexible but are susceptible to greater deformation under significant masticatory forces, potentially leading to fracture opening and displacement of bone segments. Postoperative complications were analyzed, and no statistically significant differences were found. Titanium and absorbable devices did not differ in terms of biomechanical behavior and postoperative complications in the treatment of mandibular fractures. Further studies comparing both types of plates in mandibular fractures are needed.

Comparative Analysis of Dental Stem Cells from a Single Donor: Differences in Adipogenic Differentiation and Protein Profile

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Dental stem cells (DSCs) are multipotent cells with high proliferation capacity and multilineage differentiation. Few studies have compared the cellular characteristics and adipogenic differentiation potential of DSCs derived from tissues of the same individual. The objective of this work was to evaluate the differences in growth characteristics, expression of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)-specific markers,

and the proteomic profile in response to adipogenic differentiation, of dental pulp and periodontal ligament cells obtained from a single donor. Dental cells were isolated from the third molar of a single donor using the outgrowth method. To obtain the proliferation curve of the cells was evaluated by trypan blue analysis. After the cells were cultured in adipogenic medium, morphological changes were monitored by oil red O staining, as well as adipogenic markers PPARγ and adiponectin by RT-qPCR. Finally, a two-dimensional electrophoresis of the proteins isolated from these cells was performed to analyze the proteomic profile. The two types of DSCs share similar cellular characteristics; however, their capacity for adipogenic differentiation is different. Based on the protein profiling results, we identified five differentially expressed proteins between both types of stem cells. Our findings showed that dental pulp and periodontal ligament stem cells from a single donor have similar cellular characteristics but a different response to adipogenesis, which would explain the differences in the expression of their proteins.

Scientometric Analysis of the Scientific Productivity of "Odovtos-International Journal of Dental Sciences": Collaborative Networks, Trends and Dynamicity

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This study aim to analyze the scientific productivity of the journal "Odovtos-International Journal of Dental Sciences" during the period from 2019 to 2023. Manuscripts were selected from the Scopus database using the search criterion `SRCTITLE ("Odovtos-International Journal of Dental Sciences") AND PUBYEAR > 2019 AND PUBYEAR < 2024`. During the evaluated period, 164 manuscripts were identified in the journal. Of these, 36 articles, 14 reviews, 7 editorials, and 7 letters to the editor were evaluated. The selected manuscripts were analyzed in terms of their content, authors, institutions, countries of origin, keywords provided by the authors, and citations received. Amaury De Jesús Pozos-Guillen, from the Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí in Mexico, had the highest academic production with a total of 10 publications. Adrián Gómez-Fernández, from the University of Costa Rica, showed a high Field-Weighted Citation Impact (Field-Weighted Citation Impact) with a value of 0.45, having received 43 citations in total. The University of Costa Rica led in terms of academic production with 44 publications. The Universidad Científica del Sur in Peru produced 15 publications. Despite having only 5 publications, the Universidad Arturo Prat in Chile achieved a high citation impact weighted by field of 0.86. The results of the analysis provided valuable insight into scholarly production and collaboration among authors in the journal. The findings of this study may be useful for researchers, journal editors, and policy makers to better understand the dynamics and trends in the field of dental sciences.

Quality Assessment of Matching Single-Cone Obturation in Canals Shaped with Different NiTi Systems: A Micro-CT Study

Ayşenur Öztürk, Faruk Haznedaroğlu, Ali Keleş, Gülsüm Kutlu Basmacı — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This study is aimed to evaluate the compatibility of single-cone filling technique in reciprocal and rotationally formed canals in using Micro-CT (Micro-computed tomography). The samples were split into two groups according to the kinematics system used. In both groups, one canal of the shaped roots was filled with the lateral compaction and the other one with a matched single-cone technique with a bioceramic root canal sealer, BioRoot RCS. The percentage of voids in the canal were evaluated by micro-CT radiograph before and after obturation. Regardless of the kinematics used, the single-cone technique left significantly fewer voids than the lateral compaction. In the kinematics comparison, the group shaped with the reciprocal system and filled with the single-cone system had the best results. The reciprocal nickel-titanium (NiTi) system with a matching single-cone gutta percha filling technique was found to be more effective in terms of reducing voids in root canal filling.

Development, Characterisation and Biocompatibility Analysis of a Collagen-Gelatin-Hydroxyapatite Scaffold for Guided Bone Regeneration

Preethi Shankar, Parkavi Arumugam, Saranya Kannan — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) is the choice of treatment for improving the horizontal and vertical bone volume through bone grafting. GBR membranes work on the principle of preventing epithelial migration into the defect space while maintaining the space for cell migration and differentiation at the defect site. Hydroxyapatite has been commonly used as a bone graft for infrabony defects. The study was conducted at the Department of Biomaterials at Saveetha Dental College. GBR membrane was prepared and its material characterization was done using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation (FTIR), and Confocal Analysis. The developed GBR membrane revealed SEM properties conducive to cell attachment. EDX and FTIR analysis showed the successful development of the collagen-gelatin-hydroxyapatite membrane. Cell culture and confocal analysis revealed excellent biocompatibility with a homogenous layer of viable cells. The developed composite GBR membrane is a biogenic membrane with relevant biomineralization potential that should be applied for GBR applications.

Antibacterial and Antifungal Effects of Ozonated Essential Oil of Sacha Inchi, Calcium Hydroxide, and the Combination of Both Against Enterococcus Faecalis and Candida Albicans: An In Vitro Study

María I. Llaque-Bardales, Carmen R. García-Rupaya — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The biggest challenge in root canal treatment is the elimination of microorganisms; therefore, new techniques are continually sought to achieve success. The agar diffusion method was used to determine the antibacterial and antifungal effect of ozonated Sacha Inchi essential oil, calcium hydroxide paste, and the combination of both. Brain heart infusion and sabouraud agar were the culture media for Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans respectively. The antibacterial and antifungal effects were determined using the inhibition halos that formed around the wells containing the drugs at 24 hours and 48 hours. From the study, the antibacterial and antifungal effects of the ozonized oil was greater after 6 hours, proportional to the higher concentration of peroxide. This study showed that the antibacterial effect of ozonated Sacha Inchi oil is superior to that of calcium hydroxide and the combination of both substances.

Cellular Response of Surface Functionalized Polymeric Fiber Mesh Coating Onto Dental Titanium Implants

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The purpose of this in vitro study was to develop a polymeric nanofiber mesh coating for titanium implant surfaces and assess its contribution to the cellular response. Two types of dental implants TiUltraTM and TiUniteTM (Nobel Biocare) were coated with poly (lactic acid) nanofibers fabricated using the air-jet spinning technique (AJS). The morphology of the polymeric nanofibers was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the biocompatibility was evaluated in terms of cell adhesion by using human fetal osteoblasts (hFOB). The cellular localization was observed under a fluorescent microscope, and the gene expression of Col 1, ALP, and OCN was evaluated by RT-PCR. The micrographs showed that the polymeric nanofiber coated the titaium (Ti) dental implant surfaces with a randomized deposition anchored between the depth of the threads, and well-interconnected pores were observed. Cell adhesion increased significantly (P<.05) more on the surfaces of Ti dental implants coated with the polymeric nanofiber mesh than on those not coated. After 21 days, the cell adhesion decreased significatively on the uncoated surfaces (P<.05). Col 1 and ALP genes showed a higher level of expression on dental implant surfaces coated with polymeric nanofibers mesh than on uncoated surfaces. Coating Ti dental implant surfaces with polymeric nanofiber mesh is a straightforward deposition technique for stimulating the cell response and improving the gene expression of osteogenic markers.

Genotoxicity Evaluation of a Hyperosmotic Solution Proposed as Endodontic Irrigant

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

One of the main aims of a root-canal treatment is to disinfect the root-canal system through mechanical instrumentation and cleaning by endodontic disinfection solutions. The most common endodontic disinfection solution used has been the sodium hypochlorite. However, it has been reported some important biological adverse effects and risks related to it, so it is necessary to propose and evaluate alternatives to be used as an endodontic disinfection solution. Hyperosmotic solution based on sodium chloride and potassium sorbate previously has been shown an adequate antimicrobial effect against endodontic microorganisms in planktonic and biofilm forms. This study evaluated the genotoxicity of a hyperosmotic solution proposed as an endodontic disinfection solution. Human fibroblast cells were seeded and incubated into well-culture plates and exposed to the hyperosmotic solution (30% and 100%) and compared to NaClO 1%, after cells were cultured, an evaluation was performed by Micronucleus, Tunel and Mitotracker assays. Based on results, the hyperosmotic solution is a safe potential endodontic disinfection solution or adjuvant for root canal system disinfection.

Current Perspective on Fiberglass Posts Length: Finite Element Study

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The literature to date has not reported a clear consensus on the optimal length of fiberglass posts for efficient clinical performance when restoring endodontically treated maxillary incisors with severe crown destruction. This study aimed to determine the stress distribution of fiberglass posts at different lengths using finite element analysis. Five 3D finite element models (groups A-E) were created, each representing a restoration system for endodontically treated maxillary central incisors. The models included post-core crowns with crown-root ratios of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 4/5, and 1/1. A static load of 100N force was applied to the palatal surface at 45º to the long axis of the tooth. Von Mises values and | maximum stresses in the crown, dentin, resin cement, and post-core were evaluated separately. The maximum stress experienced was A < C < B < E < D. Von Mises stresses were located in the upper and middle buccal thirds and in the apical palatal third of post A, as well as the upper and middle buccal thirds in posts B, C, D, and E. The lowest distribution of maximum and Von Mises stresses was observed in model A.

Ethical Principles in Dental Research of Behavioral and Social Factors

Karol Ramírez — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Given the importance of conducting research ethically when studying humans, this article involves considerations on basic ethical principles in dental research of behavioral and social factors. Research in these fields contribute to understand social interactions, attitudes, individual and group dynamics. As well, research in these areas not only delve into scientific knowledge of human nature, but also support evidence-based decision-making of health policies and interventions. The four main ethical principles apply to studies on behavioral and social factors. First, respect for persons dictates researchers must protect participants’ autonomy, which is the basis for informed consent. Moreover, the principle of beneficence refers to act in such a way that participants benefit from taking part of a research study. Also, beneficence promotes participants’ safety and well-being. Non-maleficence requires that researchers avoid or minimize harm to others. Justice implies fair treatment. Additional aspects of justice involve respecting participants’ privacy and confidentiality. Ethical principles require interpretation. Therefore, some examples are provided, aiming that researchers overview and apply these norms. Ethical judgement and appropriate decision making are of great importance at any stage of research with human beings.

Teledentistry's Evolution Post-COVID-19: Moving from Crisis Response to Long-Term Solutions

Amany Hany Mohamed Kamel, Ahmed Basuoni, Gamilah Al-qadhi, Nermeen AbuBakr — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Telehealth, the use of telecommunications technology and electronic information to aid in healthcare delivery, has revolutionized patient care. Health communities have already approved telemedicine for treating certain acute and chronic diseases, while teledentistry has emerged as a distinct field within the broader scope of telemedicine. Numerous trials have demonstrated the value of teledentistry in reducing dental expenses and expanding dental care access to remote and rural areas. With technological advancements, teledentistry holds the potential to further enhance dental services and patient care. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought healthcare to the forefront of public concern. The need for close face-to-face contact with patients largely led to the suspension of dentistry services. However, the increased use of cell phones and related software packages integrated into "teledentistry" has facilitated easier clinical data exchange between patients and clinicians. This technology proved invaluable for dentists managing dental emergencies during lockdowns, providing an innovative means to resume dental practice. As a result, integrating teledentistry into routine dental practice as a complement to the existing dental system is advisable. It has the potential to revolutionize dental care for the better by expanding access to care and decreasing expenses. Given these circumstances, this review discusses the value and implications of teledentistry, highlighting its potential as a game-changing solution for the dental industry.

Immediate Loaded Post Extraction Implant and Connective Graft-Guided Bone Regeneration: A Case Report

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This case report describes the clinical and therapeutic approach used in a 32-year-old female patient with a tooth fracture in tooth 22. The patient, with no history of systemic disease, presented with a chronic periapical lesion and a cervical fracture in the affected tooth. Treatment included atraumatic extraction of the tooth, followed by placement of a 3.75 x 10mm post-extraction implant with immediate loading and guided bone regeneration. The minimally invasive surgical technique was employed using the Dentoflex® drilling sequence. The primary stability of the implant, measured in 37 Newtons of torque, allowed the placement of a prefabricated metal abutment for the subsequent cemented crown. Bone regeneration of the interimplant space was successfully performed, supplemented by connective grafting due to the patient's thin gingival phenotype. Postoperative follow-up, including controls at 7, 14 days and four months, showed a satisfactory conformation of the gingival margin and papillary tissue, consolidating the success of the treatment.

Management of Endo-Perio lesion in a Tooth with an Unfavorable Prognosis: a Clinical Case Report with an 18-Month Follow-Up

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The aim of this case study is to report a successful clinical case of an endo-perio lesion in a tooth with an initially unfavorable prognosis, followed up for 18 months. A male patient, public servant, non-smoker, without a history of diabetes, and married sought dental treatment in 1995 due to periodontal problems. He was then 40 years old and diagnosed with moderate to advanced periodontal disease. The initial treatment consisted of supra and subgingival scaling, followed by the extraction of teeth indicated for removal. After discharge, the patient adhered to a preventive periodic maintenance (PPM) program to control periodontal disease recurrence. In 2021, tooth 43 showed an unfavorable endo-perio lesion during a routine check-up. Despite treatment options, the patient opted for conservative treatment with endodontic and periodontal procedures. Simultaneously, PPM sessions were performed. The patient was monitored every six months, showing regression of periodontal pockets and significant improvement after 18 months. This case highlights the importance of patient adherence to PPM, demonstrating that a conservative approach and proper maintenance can lead to positive clinical outcomes even in cases with an initially unfavorable prognosis.

The use of thyroid shielding and lead apron in dentistry. Position Statement from the Costa Rican Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology

Deivi Cascante-Sequeira, Lucía Barba Ramírez, Ana Cecilia Ruiz-Imbert — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Dentistry Postgraduates: User Satisfaction at the University of Costa Rica

Natalia Gutierrez-Marín, Andrea López-Soto — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The objective of this research was to determine the level of satisfaction among patients attending the postgraduate clinics at the University of Costa Rica during 2022 using the Dental Satisfaction Questionnaire. The research included the entire population of patients and/or legal guardians who received dental care in the postgraduate clinics of pediatric dentistry and prosthodontics at the School of Dentistry between August and October 2022. A questionnaire consisting of Dental Satisfaction Questionnaire items and sociodemographic variables was applied. Descriptive statistics were performed to establish the absolute and relative frequencies, measures of central tendency, and variability, depending on the nature of the variables. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to assess the data’s conformity to a normal distribution. Questionnaire and sociodemographic variables were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U Test and the Kruskal-Wallis Test. The response rate was 54.1%, with 95% of the participants expressing satisfaction or high satisfaction with the dental services received. Statistically significant differences were observed in some of the domains concerning sociodemographic variables: between the educational level and pain management (p=0.022) and between the frequency of dental visits and availability (p=0.008). Additionally, a statistically significant difference was observed among postgraduate categories in the domain of quality (p=0.038). This study concludes that patients attending the postgraduate clinics of prosthodontic and pediatric dentistry at the School of Dentistry, University of Costa Rica, are generally satisfied with the care they receive.

Cephalometric Evaluation of the Relationship Between Cervical Vertebral Morphology and Anomalies and the Cranial Base Angle in Different Facial Types and Skeletal Classes

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This study examines the morphology and common anomalies of the cervical vertebrae in different skeletal classes and facial types. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 137 lateral cephalometric images of patients aged 18-55 years. The images were evaluated for fusion and posterior arch deficiency as the two most common anomalies along with cervical vertebral morphology (dense angle, the height of the posterior arch of the atlas, the external anterior posterior diameter of the atlas, and the cranial base angle). Data were categorized into three skeletal classes based on the Wits analysis and the ANB angle and also three facial types based on the SN-MP angle. These calculations were performed in SPSS 22 at the significance level of P<0.05. The height of the posterior arch of the atlas was directly and significantly related to age and increased with it. The mean external anterior posterior diameter of C1 was higher in men and in the hypodivergent group. As for the other factors, including cervical spine anomalies, no significant relationship was observed with age, sex, skeletal classes, facial types, and the cranial base angle. Moreover, the mean morphology of the cervical spine was not significantly associated with skeletal classes. Based on the results, the height of the posterior arch of the atlas was associated with age and increased along with it. Moreover, the mean external anterior posterior diameter of the atlas was greater in men and in hypodivergent individuals.

Comparative Analysis of the Discrepancy in Conventional Cephalometric Tracing and Digital Cephalometric Tracing with Planmeca Romexis® Software

Pamela Chinchilla Torres, María José Rodríguez Pacheco, Ramón Chinchilla Herrera — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The objective of this study was to compare the discrepancy in conventional cephalometric tracing and digital cephalometric tracing in lateral skull radiographs, with 3 angular and 3 linear measurements. We used 24 digital lateral skull radiographs of patients from the Universidad Latina de Costa Rica, taken with the Kodak 8000C Digital Panoramic and Cephalometric System, for the computerized tracing the radiographs were passed directly to the Planmeca Romexis® software, and the same radiographs were printed for the manual tracing. A comparison between the manual tracing and the Planmeca Romexis® software measurements showed statistically significant differences (p<0,05) of 4 measurements between the two systems. It is evident that the cephalometric tracing with the Planmeca Romexis® software is more reliable than the manual tracing due to the data obtained in this research.

Forensic Insights: Unmasking Technology-Assisted Child Sexual Abuse Through the Lens of Child Healthcare Workers

Varshini Marimuthu, Sachin Ram Ganesh, Lakshman Baalaji L. — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

COVID-19 infection prevention measures have enhanced risks of abuse for children, especially in terms of high vulnerability to technology. Despite the rise in technology-assisted child sexual abuse (TA-CSA), little research has been conducted on Child Healthcare Workers’ perceptions beyond reporting on young people’s experiences. This novel study aims to understand how Childcare Workers perceive technology-assisted child sexual abuse, risks, impacts, therapeutics, and perceptions of need. Qualitative research methodology was used for the study. Child healthcare workers volunteering to participate in the study were approached by a purposive sampling strategy and interviewed in person. Field notes were taken to record the conversation. Grounded theory approach was used to analyze the results to eliminate bias associated with presumptive knowledge from literature. Participants reported an exponential rise in cases of TA-CSA during the COVID-19 pandemic. Impacts of TA-CSA such as self-blame, fear of offender, and inability to manage emotions were the most common and peculiar aspects of TA-CSA in this population. Though the childcare workers recognized the risks and impacts of TA-CSA, they were unaware of the need for distinct frameworks and therapeutic approaches essential for handling cases of TA-CSA. Complexities in TA-CSA necessitate an algorithm in addressing TA-CSA as a separate entity. Therapy should be focused on the specific impacts of TA-CSA. Further, the observations of the study stipulate the exigent shift in community perspective from blaming the victim to shaming the offender.

Influence of Abutments Surface (machined vs. laser-microgrooved) in Soft-tissue Response During One Year of Function: Clinical and Biochemical Outcomes of a RCT with Split-Mouth Design

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The purpose of this study was to evaluate peri-implant soft tissue response by assessing IL-6, IL-1b and MMP-8 levels in peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) around machined vs. laser-microgrooved implants/healing/prosthetic abutments during 1 year of function. Twenty-four patients each received 2 one-stage implants in a split mouth design on the same jaw. In each patient, one implant, one immediate healing, and one prosthetic abutment with a machined surface (M group), and one implant, one immediate healing abutment and one prosthetic abutment with a laser-microgrooved surface (LMS group) were used. PICF sampling, pocket probing depths (PPD) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were assessed at 1, 3, and 12 months. IL-6, IL-1b and MMP-8 levels were determined by specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay systems (ELISA). Repeated measure ANOVA was used to run comparisons with groups and between groups months at 1, 3, and 12 months. At 3 and 12 months, the LMS group showed significantly lower PD, BOP and IL-6, IL-1β and MMP-8 levels than the M group (P<.05). This study suggests the presence of more remodeling and/or inflammatory phenomena around implants/abutments with a machined surface than around implants/abutments with a laser-microgrooved surface.

Prevalence of Developmental Dental Anomalies in Pediatric Patients and an Assessment of Students’ Knowledge in Two Mexican Dental Schools: A Cross-Sectional Study

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Dental anomalies (DAs) in children refer to conditions affecting the structure, number, shape, and size of teeth. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of these anomalies in both primary and permanent dentitions among two Mexican pediatric populations aged 2-14 years. Additionally, the level of knowledge about DAs among students pursuing a degree in dentistry in both universities was determined. A cross‑sectional study was conducted on children making their first visit to the Pediatric Dental Clinics of the Universities of Nuevo León and San Luis Potosí in México between March and May 2017. The prevalence of DAs was estimated. In addition, a questionnaire comprising 20 closed items regarding DAs was administered to 100 undergraduate students to evaluate their level of knowledge. Ninety-four children (54 boys and 42 girls; mean age 9.73±2.1 years) were included. Twenty-two patients (23.4%) exhibited at least one DA in their primary or permanent teeth. The most common DAs were in size (macrodontia) and structure (enamel hypoplasia). Agenesis occurred three times, and there were two cases of mesiodens. Regarding gender, 10 patients were girls (45.4%), and 12 were boys (54.6%). The prevalence of DAs in permanent teeth (57.5%) was higher than that in primary teeth (42.5%, p=0.031). Only two patients presented DAs in both primary and permanent teeth. No tooth-shaped anomalies were detected. Regarding the level of knowledge among the university students, the percentage of correct answers was 61.6%. Our findings emphasize the importance of encouraging parents to initiate pediatric dental visits early. Additionally, the study highlights the significance of conducting a thorough evaluation of the patients.

Genetic Variants of MSX1, PAX9, and AXIN2 in Mayan Probands with Dental Agenesis from Yucatan, Mexico

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The present study aimed to determine the genetic variants of PAX9, MSX1, and AXIN2 in Mayan probands with non-syndromic dental agenesis (NSDA) from Yucatan, Mexico. We sequenced DNA of specific exons of the PAX9, MSX1, and AXIN2 genes by using the Sanger method in seven Mayan probands with familial NSDA attending orthodontic clinics in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. We bioinformatically analyzed four genomes of unaffected people with Mayan ancestry for comparative purposes. Two Mayan probands had oligodontia (14 or 16 missing teeth) and five had hypodontia (1-2 missing teeth). We found the following genetic variants: rs8670 in MSX1; rs12881240 and rs4904210 in PAX9; and rs1060502133, rs1060502139, rs147716924, rs1330822418, rs769741903, rs9915936, rs1133683, and rs1234437759 in AXIN2. The genetic variants in PAX9, MSX1, and AXIN2 in Mayan probands with familial NSDA were benign and have previously been reported. In conclusion, the AXIN2 gene exhibited the highest number of known variants. Because some variants were also present in the genomes of unaffected people, additional functional and epidemiological studies are required to address their clinical significance and associated phenotypes.

Assessing the Determinants of Oral Health-Related Quality of Life Among Male Costa Rican Students: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Study

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

To evaluate the association between socioeconomic, psychosocial, and lifestyle factors with Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) in a sample of adolescent males from Colegio Técnico San Agustín de Cartago - Ciudad de los Niños (St. Augustine’s Technical High School), located in the Cartago Province of Costa Rica. Data for this study were obtained from a descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted in 2019. The sample consisted of 394 adolescent males aged between 12 and 22 years. OHRQoL was assessed using the validated Spanish version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-49). The following variables were considered: age, parental education, having a remunerated job, Health-Related Quality of Life (measured via the SF-36 questionnaire), self-esteem (Rosenberg scale), perceived stress (PSS-14), depression (CES-D), physical activity, history of dropping out of school, flossing and tooth-brushing habits, eating snacks between meals, medication intake for illness, having received oral health care instructions, history of dental visits due to pain, frequency of dental visits, history of childhood tooth decay, and access to dental health care during childhood. Qualitative variables were analyzed using the Student's t-test, while Pearson correlation was used for quantitative variables. Multivariable analysis was performed using linear regression. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05 using STATA 14®. Enhanced general health-related quality of life (p<0.01) and early childhood dental attendance (p<0.01) were identified as factors associated with improved OHRQoL. Conversely, having had dental visits for pain (p<0.01), elevated depression symptomatology (p<0.01), and a history of childhood dental cavities (p<0.01) were all associated with worse OHRQoL. This study suggests a link between general and oral health. Experiences during childhood appear to set a standard for adolescence. Lastly, it is crucial to note the significant impact of mental health on the perception of oral health.