Glass Ionomer Cement as a preventative fissure sealant for first permanent molars in high caries risk patients waiting general anaesthetic-a case series.

OBJECTIVE/AIM: The aim of this case series was to assess the ongoing suitability of Glass Ionomer Cement Fissure Sealants for use in paediatric patients. These had been used through the COVID pandemic due to their status as a non-aerosol-generating procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective clinical review was undertaken to identify cases where GIC Fissure Sealants were used in paediatric patients awaiting exodontia general anaesthetic within Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust Community Dental Service. Identified cases were then collated to form this case series. These were reviewed regarding the number of GIC fissure sealants placed, and retention at the GA appointment and any subsequent follow-up appointments. RESULTS: The results showed favourable results of GIC fissure sealants, with an average retention of 77% - in line with the wider literature results for GIC fissure sealants. DISCUSSION: The results showed a favourable retention rate, particularly given patient challenges leading to them requiring exodontia GA. Review of alternative fissure sealant materials may be beneficial on a local level to compare results with the available literature and confirm ongoing suitability. CONCLUSIONS: The results appear to support the ongoing use of GIC-FS where close patient monitoring is available.

A quality improvement project to assess the use of preventative measures against acute alveolar osteitis.

AIMS: A quality improvement project was conducted in a General Dental Practice environment. The aim was to reduce the rate of Acute Alveolar Osteitis, which was locally found to be at 19.4%. METHODS: A range of quality improvement tools were utilised to determine and measure potential interventions, and the results from the initial Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle utilising perioperative 0.2% Chlorhexidine as a preventative method are presented. RESULTS: The use of perioperative 0.2% Chlorhexidine mouthwash showed an absolute risk reduction of 6.2%. DISCUSSION: Generalisation from the results is highly dependent on local factors, although the favourable reduction in acute alveolar osteitis and cost savings found supported the project. CONCLUSIONS: This project highlights the strengths of Quality Improvement methodologies in implementing and assessing changes to improve service provision and patient outcomes.