Invesigate How Cultural and Socioeconomic Factors Influence Oral Cancer Prevention Behaviors, Screening Uptake, and Treatment Outcomes.

Background: Oral cancer is a significant global health issue, with prevention and early detection being pivotal for improved outcomes. This study investigates the impact of cultural and socioeconomic factors on oral cancer prevention behaviors, screening participation, and treatment outcomes. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving a sample size of 1,000 participants. Participants were recruited through stratified sampling to ensure cultural and socioeconomic diversity. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, were used to explore associations between factors and outcomes. Results: The study revealed multifaceted influences of cultural and socioeconomic factors on oral cancer-related aspects. Cultural factors significantly influenced prevention behaviors, with participants from certain cultural backgrounds exhibiting higher rates of tobacco use and lower rates of dietary adherence). Socioeconomic status played a role in screening uptake, with individuals from lower income brackets less likely to undergo regular screenings. Conclusion: Cultural and socioeconomic factors have a substantial influence on oral cancer prevention behaviors, screening participation, and treatment outcomes.

Investigate how Frequently Dental Professionals Conduct Oral Cancer Screenings During Routine Dental Check-Ups and the Methods they Use.

Background: Oral cancer is a significant global health concern with substantial morbidity and mortality rates. Early detection during routine dental check-ups is crucial for improved patient outcomes. Dental professionals play a pivotal role in conducting oral cancer screenings, but the frequency and methods they employ remain understudied. Aim: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the frequency of oral cancer screenings during routine dental check-ups conducted by dental professionals and the methods they commonly use. Materials and Methods: A survey was administered to 500 dental professionals, including dentists and dental hygienists, representing diverse demographics and practice settings. The survey collected data on the frequency of oral cancer screenings and the primary methods employed. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used for data analysis. Results: The study found that 85% of dental professionals conduct oral cancer screenings during routine dental check-ups, with 48% performing them annually and 33% at every visit. Visual inspection (97%) and palpation (83%) were the most commonly used methods, while adjunctive screening tools (45%) were less frequently incorporated. Conclusion: Dental professionals are actively engaged in oral cancer screenings during routine dental check-ups, demonstrating a commitment to early detection. Visual inspection and palpation are commonly employed methods, but there is room for improvement in the adoption of adjunctive screening tools.

Community Water Fluoridation and its Influence on Periodontal Health in Different Age Groups.

Background: Community water fluoridation is a well-recognized public health initiative known for its efficacy in preventing dental cavities. The positive effects of fluoride on tooth enamel have led to widespread implementation of water fluoridation programs. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 1,000 participants from diverse age groups, spanning children, adolescents, adults, and older adults, residing in both fluoridated and non-fluoridated communities. Comprehensive periodontal assessments included measurements of probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and the presence of gingival inflammation. Participants were categorized into "fluoridated" or "non-fluoridated" groups based on their residential history. Results: Fluoridated communities consistently displayed lower mean PDs, CALs, and rates of gingival inflammation across all age groups. Notably, the reduction in PD and CAL reached approximately 0.5 millimeters and 0.3 millimeters, respectively, while the decrease in gingival inflammation ranged from 3% to 5. Conclusion: This study suggests a potential link between community water fluoridation and enhanced periodontal health, as evidenced by improved PDs, CALs, and reduced gingival inflammation.

Effectiveness of Online vs. In-Person Periodontal Health Workshops for Public Awareness.

Background: Periodontal health is a critical aspect of overall oral health, yet public awareness and education on this topic remain limited. With the increasing prevalence of online health education platforms, it is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of online periodontal health workshops compared with traditional in-person workshops on improving public awareness. Materials and Methods: Study Design: This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to assess the impact of online and in-person periodontal health workshops on public awareness. Participants (N = 500) were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the online workshop group or the in-person workshop group. Online Workshop: Participants in this group accessed an interactive online periodontal health workshop, consisting of video presentations, animations, and quizzes. The workshop covered topics, such as gum disease prevention, oral hygiene, and the importance of regular dental checkups. In-Person Workshop: Participants in this group attended a traditional in-person periodontal health workshop conducted by dental professionals. The content and duration of this workshop mirrored the online version. Pre- and Postworkshop Assessments: Both groups completed pre-workshop and postworkshop assessments, including a knowledge questionnaire and a self-assessment of oral health habits. Arbitrary scores were assigned to quantify knowledge gain (0-100%). Results: Participants in the online workshop group showed a mean knowledge gain of 30% (standard deviation (SD) = 5.2), while those in the in-person workshop group exhibited a mean knowledge gain of 35% (SD = 4.7). The self-assessment of oral health habits indicated an improvement in both groups, with 60% of participants reporting better oral hygiene practices. Conclusion: Both online and in-person periodontal health workshops demonstrated effectiveness in improving public awareness and promoting better oral health habits. Combining both modalities could be an effective strategy for comprehensive public education on periodontal health.

A Study to Assess and Evaluate the Gingival Response During and after the Fixed Orthodontics Treatment Experienced by Adult Patients.

Objective: The purpose of this research was to examine patients' periodontal health before, during, and after treatment using a fixed orthodontic device. Methods: Forty normal teenagers with full sets of permanent teeth and a clinical need for fixed orthodontics participated. Individuals were chosen from the Class I population who would benefit from utilizing traditional orthodontic braces and techniques that did not need extractions. Respondents were sent to the periodontist for required checkups after the placement of a fixed orthodontic device at 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-month intervals, respectively, till the conclusion of orthodontic treatment. Results: After having a fixed orthodontic device put in place, patients had a rise in the average values of the Plaque Index and Sulcus Bleeding Index at each checkup. Keeping an eye on the progression three months, six months, a year, and two years after the initiation of orthodontic treatment reveals a statistically significant difference in the presence of gingival hyperplasia. Conclusion: Patients' periodontal health before, during, and after fixed orthodontic treatment shows the need for close collaboration between the orthodontist and the periodontist.

An Online Survey to Examine the Dental Students Awareness, Knowledge, Prevention and Early Detection of Oral Cancer.

Background: Although oral cancer is known to be particularly aggressive and to have a poor prognosis, early detection is often connected with a better outlook. Consequently, the purpose of this research was to evaluate dental students' and interns' understanding of oral cancer prevention strategies and practices, as well as their motivations for engaging in such efforts. Material and Methods: The dental interns and undergraduates in their last years of the dental school participated in a cross-sectional questionnaire study. All eligible participants (N = 300) were asked to fill out a 48-item questionnaire on oral cancer prevention and early detection. The questionnaire was broken down into four parts covering demographic information, knowledge, behaviors, and attitudes. Results: The percentage of people who answered the survey was 65% (N = 300). Interns outperformed dentistry school freshmen by a substantial margin (P = 0.05) on tests of both knowledge and attitude. Some people avoid being screened for oral cancer because they feel they do not have the knowledge, skills, self-assurance, or time to do so effectively. Conclusions: The majority of those polled in this research seemed to lack the necessary knowledge and abilities in mouth cancer prevention and early detection, but they had high levels of desire and a positive outlook toward oral cancer preventive education.

A Study to Assess Etiology and Prevalence of Signs and Symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorder.

Aim: The purpose of this epidemiological research was to determine how common temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms are. Materials and Methods: Among the outpatient population, a sample of 100 people was chosen at random. A patient survey was presented to each person, and points were allotted based on their responses. Participants were categorized as having no symptoms of TMD, mild TMD, moderate TMD, or severe TMD based on their total score. Results: One hundred adults aged 18 and above were selected from the general public to take part in the research. Temporomandibular disorder was present in no more than 30% of those studied, in the mild range in 50%, in the moderate range in 15%, and in the severe range in 5%. 0.602 was determined to be the dependability of Fonseca's questionnaire. Conclusion: The Fonseca questionnaire is a useful instrument for gauging the extent to which TMD symptoms are present in a given population. The screening questionnaire may be received in a short amount of time and for little money, making it a good option for public health services.

A Comparative Study to Assess Accuracy of Casts Prepared using Direct Impression Technique with and without Splinting of Multiple Dental Implants Utilising Two Different Splinting and Impression Materials.

Background: The current study examined the accuracy of casts generated using direct impression processes with and without splints for multiple dental implants utilizing two different splinting materials and impression materials. Materials and Methods: Dental replacement base intensity alleviating acrylic tar was used to create a reference model of a mandible with four inserts (Uniti, Equinox, D-3.7 mm, and L-13 mm) in the front. Polyether and polyvinyle siloxane impression materials were used to make impressions of the reference model utilizing direct non-splinted and splinted techniques. Results: Polyether impression material was found to produce more accurate impressions than polyvinyl siloxane, and impressions made using transfer copings splinted with pattern resins were found to be more accurate than those made using either unsplinted copings or copings splinted with light-cured wax resin. Conclusions: All six impression techniques resulted in casts that were different from the reference model. Next, the polyether-splinted (SPR) technique is the nonsplinted technique employing polyether and polyvinyle siloxane imprint materials, and then, the splinted techniques using polyether and polyvinyle siloxane and produced the most accurate casts in comparison with the reference model.

An In Vitro Trial to Estimate the Retention Ability of Luting Agents Utilized with Dental Implant-Supported Prosthesis.

Aim: The trial's goal was to assess the retentiveness of specially formulated implant cement besides comparing it to dental cements that are widely utilized by means of implant systems. Materials and Procedures: Twenty implant analogs were implanted in auto-polymerizing acrylic resin blocks and bonded to titanium abutments. Fifty uniform copings were waxed and cast unswervingly onto the abutment. (1) Resin-bonded zinc oxide eugenol cement, (2) purposefully designed implant cement, (3) zinc phosphate cement, (4) zinc polycarboxylate cement, and (5) glass ionomer cement were the cements used. Following cementation, each sample was pulled out by utilizing a widespread testing machine, and the stresses necessary to confiscate the crowns were recorded. The ANOVA and Bonferroni tests were used to examine the mean values and standard deviations of cement failure loads. Results: Zinc polycarboxylate cement had the peak mean cement failure load, followed by glass ionomer cement. Zinc phosphate cement had the next highest mean cement failure load, followed by resin-bonded zinc oxide eugenol cement. The mean cement failure load for Premier implant cement was the lowest. The difference in mean cement failure loads across the groups was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings do not imply that one type of cement is superior to another, but they do present a ranking directive of cements based on their capacity to maintain the prosthesis and facilitate retrievability.

An In Vitro Study of Gutta Percha Removal Commencing from the Root Canal Undergoing Endodontic Retreatment using Different Rotary Instrumentation Systems.

Background: In the root canal, the tenacity of microbial infection in either or both the periradicular area is the utmost communal source of endodontic failure. The majority of the gutta percha is removed using hand and rotational equipment. Aim of Study: To determine gutta percha removal by effectively utilizing three rotary instrumentation devices all through the endodontic retreatment. Objective of Study: To determine amongst the three Nickle-Titanium systems which one is significantly effective in retreatment along with comparison of retreatment efficiency using or avoiding the utilization of solvent. Materials and Methods: On 60 newly extracted, single-rooted mandibular premolars, every root canal was sealed using gutta percha and AH Plus sealer utilizing lateral compaction. After that, the samplings were separated into three investigational groups, each with 20 specimens. After that, individual groups were separated into ten specimens. After that, the groups were withdrawn with or without solvent. ProTaper retreatment files, Mtwo retreatment files, and R-Endo files were utilized to eradicate the gutta percha after two weeks. The extent of root canal filling material left in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds was recorded utilizing a stereomicroscope and a computer image processing program. The data was statistically examined using analysis of variance. Result: The ProTaper group exhibited a smaller amount of remnant filling material than the supplementary groups in the coronal and middle thirds; however a significant difference amid ProTaper and Mtwo, and Mtwo and R-Endo in the nonsolvent groups (P = 0.05) was concluded. In the nonsolvent group, the Mtwo group showed less leftover filling material. Conclusion: The elimination of root canal filling material was found to be equally effective in all systems. However, not a single experimental group could entirely eradicate gutta percha from the root canal.

An In Vitro study to Compare Dental Laser with other Treatment Modalities on Biofilm Ablation from Implant and Tooth Surfaces.

Background: Periodontal and peri-implant disorders are etiologically linked to bacterial biofilms. The researchers wanted to see how well the erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser removed bacterial biofilms along with attached epithelial cells (EC), gingival fibroblasts (GF), in addition to osteoblast-like cells (OC) dentin along with titanium surfaces compared to previous therapy methods. Methodology: 3.5 days were spent growing bacterial biofilms on standardized dentin and also titanium samplings using a sand-blasted along with the acid-etched surface. Following that, the specimens were positioned into pockets that had been formed artificially. The following approaches were used to remove biofilm: (1) Er:YAG, (2) photodynamic therapy (PDT), and (3) curette (CUR) along with supplementary PDT (CUR/PDT). The remaining biofilms' colony forming units (CFUs) were determined, as well as the attachment of EC, GF, in addition to OC. Analysis of variance with a posthoc least significant difference was utilized in the statistical analysis. Results: When compared to untreated dentin and titanium surfaces, all therapy strategies reduced total CFUs in statistically significant biofilms (p = 0.001). On the dentin, Er:YAG was as effective as CUR and PDT, but not as effective as CUR/PDT (p = 0.005). The application of Er:YAG on titanium surfaces leads to statistically significantly improved biofilm eradication equated to the supplementary three therapies (all p = 0.001). On untouched infested dentin and titanium surfaces, the counts of attached EC, GF, and OC were the lowermost. Atop the dentin, increased EC counts were detected after CUR/PDT (p = 0.006). On titanium, all cleaning procedures increased the counts of attached EC by a statistically significant amount (p = 0.001), with no variations between groups. After Er:YAG decontamination, there were statistically substantially elevated amounts of GF (p = 0.024) and OC (p = 0.001) than on untreated surfaces. Conclusion: The usage of Er:YAG laser to ablate subgingival biofilms and, specifically, to decontaminate titanium implant surfaces appears to be a promising strategy that needs further research.

Effect of Food Colorants on Color of Denture Base Acrylic Resins.

BACKGROUND: Acrylic resin has been successfully used for complete denture fabrication for many years. Color stability is very crucial clinical properties for dental materials, and color change may be an indicator of aging or damaging of materials. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: This study has been designed to determine the color stability of heat cure denture base acrylic resins in commonly consumed solutions causing stains. METHODOLOGY: Four hundred disc samples of four commercially used heat cure denture base resins (Trevalon®, DPI®, Veracril®, and Pyrax®) were fabricated (100 in each group). These were checked for any change in optical density by immersing them in four different staining solutions (tea, coffee, turmeric, and betel leaf, i.e., paan) and synthetic saliva for 1-month synthetic saliva was taken as control. The denture cleansers were also evaluated for their efficacy determined by their ability to remove the stains caused by the staining solutions. RESULTS: It was observed that Trevalon® showed least change in optical density and coffee illustrated the maximum potential for staining the denture base resins and is the most difficult to be removed using a denture cleanser. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that Trevalon® demonstrated maximum color stability. Among the staining solutions, coffee caused maximum stains.

In vitro Results of Scanning Technique on Assessing Cement Thickness and Interfacial Nanoleakage of Luted CAD/CAM-Fabricated Fiber Posts.

BACKGROUND: Fiber posts are broadly used due to their good esthetics and elasticity close to that of dentin, which allows for uniform stress distribution within a root and lowers the possibility of nonrestorable root fractures. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: The study assessed the layer of cement thickness and interfacial nanoleakage of luted fiber posts which were fabricated with CAD/CAM technology following direct scanning of the post space (DS) method, scanning of a polyether impression of the post space (IS), and scanning of a plaster model of the post space (MS). METHODOLOGY: Ninety premolars were chosen randomly and were assigned to three groups according to the scanning technique. Posts were computer designed and milled from experimental fiber-reinforced composite blocks. RESULTS: The mean and standard deviation values of cement thickness, respectively, were: DS 172 ± 39 = m; IS 199 ± 55 = m, and MS MPa 272 ± 81 = m. The fiber posts fabricated following DS technique demonstrated superior performance compared to posts fabricated upon IS and MS, in terms of the post retention. The cement thickness did not differ between DS and IS, whereas in MS group, the cement layer was significantly thicker than in the remaining two groups. The scanning technique did not influence the sealing ability, as all groups showed comparable nanoleakage. CONCLUSION: Fiber posts fabricated following DS technique demonstrated superior performance. Furthermore, scanning technique did not influence the sealing ability, as all groups showed comparable nanoleakage.

Comparison of Sealing Ability of Bioceramic Sealer, AH Plus, and GuttaFlow in Conservatively Prepared Curved Root Canals Obturated with Single-Cone Technique: An In vitro Study.

BACKGROUND: Inadequate obturation techniques of the root canal system have been found to be the most frequent reason of failure post root canal treatment. An ideal endodontic sealer should fulfill all ideal requisites. The present study aimed to compare apical sealing ability between bioceramic (BC) sealer, GuttaFlow, and AH Plus. METHODOLOGY: One hundred and twenty-five curved roots of maxillary and mandibular third molar teeth with fully formed apex were collected for this study. The root canals were cleaned and shaped using a standard single-cone preparation to file at the established working length and divided into five groups of 25 each. Dye leakage was carried out. Group A: with GP, using EndoSequence BC sealer with conventional with 4% gutta-percha (Brasseler USA, Savannah, Georgia, USA); Group B: with ceramic coated with 4% gutta-percha (Brasseler USA, Savannah, Georgia, USA); Group C: with GP, using AH Plus sealer (Dentsply, De-Trey Konstanz, Germany) with 4% gutta-percha; Group D: with GuttaFlow bioseal (Roeko-Coltène/Whaledent, Langenau, Germany) with 4% Gutta-percha; and Group E is a negative control group. Statistical analysis was done using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software and Student's unpaired t-test. RESULTS: The group AH Plus showed more leakage values than the GuttaFlow group and of two groups of BC sealer and negative control. Student's unpaired t-test disclosed no significant difference (P < 0.05) between the groups. CONCLUSION: None of the sealers used in the study could completely seal the apical foramen to have a fluid-tight seal.

Impact of Surface Treatment with Different Repair Acrylic Resin on the Flexural Strength of Denture Base Resin: An In Vitro Study.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: The aim and objective of the present study was to assess the flexural strength of denture base resin based on surface treatment with different acrylic resin repair materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Totally, 120 heat-polymerized polymethyl methacrylate denture base resin materials which are rectangular shaped with the size of 65 mm × 10 mm × 2.5 mm were fabricated. 150 µm-sized alumina used for surface treatment. All the 120 heat-cured, surface-treated acrylic denture base resin samples were randomly divided into three groups. Group I: glass-fiber-reinforced auto-polymerizing acrylic resin, group II: auto-polymerizing acrylic resin, and group III: light-cured acrylic resin. A universal testing machine was used to test the flexural strength of the repaired specimens. RESULTS: A highest mean flexural strength (88.96 ± 0.31) was demonstrated by group I, followed by group II (72.18 ± 1.86) and group III (66.30 ± 1.02). ANOVA demonstrated a statistically significant inter-group difference. On multiple comparisons, using Tukey's post hoc test a statistically significant difference between groups I and II and between groups I and III was found. CONCLUSION: After considering the limitations, the present study concluded that the highest flexural strength is shown by glass-fiber-reinforced auto-polymerizing acrylic resin than by auto-polymerizing acrylic resin and light-cured acrylic resin. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Denture repair comprises of joining two fractured parts of a denture with a denture repair material. The success of denture repair depends on the adhesion phenomenon. The treatment of the surface can be accomplished using a suitable material which changes chemically and morphologically and thus promotes better adhesion.

Assessment of oral mucosal conditions among beedi workers residing in beedi workers colonies in Karnataka, India.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Beedi workers are an important part of our society. Due to their occupation of beedi making, they face different types of health hazards. This study was undertaken to assess the oral mucosal conditions among beedi workers residing in beedi workers' colonies in Karnataka. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 700 beedi workers in the age group of 18-60 years residing in five beedi workers' colonies in Karnataka. The information was recorded regarding personal history by personal interview by the investigator. The clinical examination was done using WHO 1997 "Oral Health Assessment Form." Significance is assessed at 5% level of significance. RESULTS: It was found that 26.9% of study population had different oral mucosal lesions. INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSION: The present study showed that oral mucosal conditions of beedi workers residing in beedi workers' colonies in Karnataka were relatively poor.

Behavioral changes in preschoolers treated with/without rotary instruments.

BACKGROUND: Behavioral dentistry is an interdisciplinary science which needs to be learned, practiced, and reinforced in order to provide quality dental care in children. AIM: To assess the anxiety experienced during dental treatment in preschool children with/without rotary instruments using behavioral scale. STUDY AND DESIGN: Sixty pediatric patients of preschool age with bilateral occlusal carious lesions extending into dentin were selected for the study. Carious lesions were removed using conventional rotary instruments on one side and Papacarie - chemomechanical caries removal of approach on contra lateral side. Both cavities were restored with glass ionomer cement (Fuji IX). Anxiety scores were determined using 'Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale' (Wong et al, 1998) during the various clinical stages of the treatment course. RESULTS: Children experienced relaxed behavior when subjected to Papacarie method of caries removal compared to conventional method using rotary instruments. CONCLUSION: This study helped us to provide behavioral measures and introduce children to dentistry in a nonthreatening setting.

Oral health care education and its effect on caregivers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The population of older people as well as the number of dependent older people is steadily increasing. Those unable to live independently at home are being cared for in a range of settings. Practical training for nurses and auxiliary care staff has frequently been recommended as a way of improving oral health care for functionally dependent elderly. AIM: To evaluate an oral health education program for the caretakers of institutionalized elderly. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was a cluster randomized intervention trial with an elderly home as the unit of randomization. Seven out of 65 elderly homes accommodating a total of 78 caretakers and 462 elderly residents were selected in Bangalore city, India, out of which 3 elderly homes were assigned to the intervention group and 4 to the control group. Oral health knowledge of caretakers was assessed using a pre-tested proforma; later, oral health education was provided to the caretakers of the intervention group. Oral health education was given at the end of 6 months to the caretakers of the control group. Chi-square test, Fisher exact test, and paired proportion test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: There was significant improvement in the oral health knowledge of the caretakers from baseline in the interventional group. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study showed that there was a significant improvement in the oral health knowledge among the caretakers. Educating the caretakers for assisting or enabling residents for maintaining oral hygiene is essential.