Dilute Silver Diamine Fluoride (1:10) Versus Light Cure Calcium Hydroxide as Indirect Pulp Capping Agents in Primary Molars - A Randomized Clinical Trial.

AIM: To evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of diluted silver diamine fluoride (1:10) and light cure calcium hydroxide as indirect pulp capping agents in primary molars. STUDY DESIGN: Fifty-six primary molars requiring indirect pulp treatment were randomly allocated to two groups: Dilute SDF (one drop of SDF mixed with 9 drops of distilled water giving a 1:10 dilution) and light cure calcium hydroxide. The indirect pulp treatment was followed by glass ionomer cement restoration and all primary molars received stainless steel crown as full coverage restoration. The teeth were followed up both clinically and radiographically at 1,6- and 12-months' time interval using a pre-determined criterion. The results were statistically analyzed using Chi square analysis. The significance level was set at p ≤0.05. RESULTS: Overall clinical and radiographic success rate of indirect pulp treatment with SDF was 96% and with light cure calcium hydroxide was 91.6% respectively at the end of 12 months but the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Dilute silver diamine fluoride (1:10) can be advocated as potential indirect pulp capping agent in primary molars with deep carious lesions.

Clinical Measurement of Maximum Mouth Opening in Children Aged 6-12.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical maximum mouth opening in children and its correlation with age, and sex. STUDY DESIGN: Three hundred children of age 6-12 years, from different schools of Moradabad city were included. The participants were divided into three groups based on their age i.e Group 1 (n=100) 6-8 years, Group 2 (n=100) 8-10 years and Group 3 (n=100) 10-12 yrs. Three recordings of maximum mouth opening (MMO) were obtained using digital vernier caliper and the mean of three was considered as the MMO of that child. The data was analyzed using Spearman correlation, ANOVA with post- hoc Bonferroni test. The significance level was predetermined at p≤0.05 . RESULTS: The mean MMO for children of Moradabad of aged 6-8yrs in boys is 39.87 ± 4.91 mm and in girls is 36.85± 4.09 mm. In 8-10 yeas age group, the MMO in boys is 44.5± 5.1 mm and in girls 41.77± 5.24 mm. In 10-12 year age group, the MMO in boys is 49.63± 5.56 mm and in girls is 49.33±5.32 mm respectively. The MMO was found to be higher in boys in all the three age groups. CONCLUSIONS: There was a significant difference in values of MMO in all the three age groups with boys having higher MMO values when compared to girls. Varying range of MMO values was observed within three age groups.

Immersive and Non-Immersive Virtual Reality Distraction on Pain Perception to Intraoral Injections.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of immersive VR (IVR) and non-immersive VR (NIVR) distraction on perceived pain during intraoral injections in children undergoing dental procedures. The objective was to introduce 3-dimensional nature of virtual reality during the provoking phase of dental treatment as a means of distraction in children. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 200 children were selected for the study, 100 for IVR group and 100 for NIVR group. After randomization, children were introduced to Oculus Go Standalone equipment; MCDAS (f), VAS, WBFRS and the treatment procedure using tell show do technique. Group I children were introduced to oculus go standalone headset with hand held controller to play temple run or roller coaster game while in group II, children watched cartoon movies of their choice. Pre-operative & post-operative MCDAS scores were obtained using MCDAS (f) questionnaire in local language. Post-operatively, VAS and WBFRS scores were also obtained. The data was analyzed using independent t-test and chi-square analysis. RESULTS: Pre-operatively, the mean MCDAS scores were similar in both the groups viz. Group-I (29.20 ± 3.197) and Group-II (29.09 ± 3.803) and is statistically not significant. Post-operatively, the mean MCDAS scores were higher in non-immersive group (20.72 ± 2.822) as compared to immersive group (10.99 ± 2.227). VAS score was higher in non-immersive group (2.72 ± 0.99) as compared to immersive group (0.75 ± 0.88). WBFRS scores were higher in non-immersive group (2.78 ± 1.097) as compared to immersive group (0.82 ± 1.104). CONCLUSION: Three-dimensional virtual reality was found to be an effective means of distraction in children undergoing dental procedures and especially during the provoking phase. The significant difference obtained clearly indicates irrespective of immersiveness of virtual reality, anxiety had been decreased and on comparison the pain perception to intraoral injection is less in immersive virtual reality environment. Immersive VR distraction technique can serve as an adjunct to traditional behavior management strategies already available to the pediatric dentist.

Resorbable Collagen Barrier Impeding the Extrusion of Obturating Material in Primary Molars Undergoing Resorption - A Randomized Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of placing a resorbable collagen barrier in impeding the extrusion of obturation material in primary molars undergoing resorption. STUDY DESIGN: All the 94 canals in 47 mandibular molars were allocated to 2 groups- Group 'A'- 47 canals with collagen barrier (Test group) and Group 'B'- 47 canals without collagen barrier (Control group) based on randomization protocol. Pulpectomy was performed and obturation of both test and control canals were radiographically assessed. Pearson's chi - square test was applied to analyze the results. The significance level was predetermined at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Among the test group, 93.6% of the canals showed no extrusion while, 6.4% showed visible extrusion of the material outside the apex. In the control group, 83% showed no extrusion whereas 17% of the canals showed visible extrusion outside the apex. But no significant difference was noted (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The placement of resorbable collagen barrier in the apical third of the canal prevented the extrusion of obturating material beyond the apex in resorbing primary molars.

Combined Effect of Enamel Deproteinization and Intermediate Bonding in the Retention of Pit and Fissure Sealants in Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE: This manuscript shows if enamel deproteinization along with an intermediate layer of bonding enhances the retention of pit and fissure sealants.. STUDY DESIGN: Two hundred six mandibular first permanent molars were allocated to Group I (n=103) and Group II (n=103). Group I underwent deproteinization, acid etching, bonding agent application and pit & fissure sealant placement while Group II treated with acid etching followed by pit & fissure sealant application only. Clinical analysis of all the teeth in the two groups was performed at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months respectively. Pearson's chi - square test was utilized to evaluate the success of both treatment procedures (p<0.05). RESULTS: At 12 months follow up the differences between the groups pertaining to Marginal integrity, Marginal discoloration and Anatomical form were statistically significant suggesting enhanced retention in Group I. CONCLUSIONS: Enamel deproteinization along with the use of intermediate bonding layer significantly enhances the retention of pit and fissure sealants in terms of enhanced marginal integrity, decreased marginal discoloration and preserving the anatomical form.

Comparative Quantitative Assessments of Salivary Ion Activity Product for Hydroxyapatite and Buffering Capacity in Children with Different Caries Experience.

AIM: If a relation exists between salivary IPHA, buffer capacity and caries experience, then this relationship could be used as screening chair side test for caries risk assessment. STUDY DESIGN: One hundred ninety seven children aged 4 to 6 years were examined. Data was collected by interview and clinical examination. They were divided into low, moderate and high caries experience group of 20 children each. Two ml of each sample was used to measure the pH value with pH meter. Regarding the buffering capacity, freshly prepared hydrochloric acid (HCl) was titrated into saliva and pH was recorded. The collected saliva samples were sent to Laboratory for measurement of calcium and phosphorus. IPHA was calculated and the negative logarithms of IPHA were used to determine the enamel solubility. The correlation between salivary IPHA, buffering capacity and caries experience were evaluated. RESULTS: There was a significant relation between pH, log IPHA and dental caries experience, it could be considered as a predictor of dental caries. CONCLUSION: pH measurement after HCl titration in saliva could be used as chair side screening test for the assessment of caries risk.

Alternative approach to management of early loss of second primary molar: a clinical case report.

Preservation of space after premature loss of the second primary molar is essential to prevent mesial drifting of the permanent first molar. Various modifications of distal shoe space maintainers, which have been documented, are all nonfunctional in nature. This paper describes an innovative design of a functional distal shoe space maintainer that is intended to overcome the disadvantages of conventional non-functional space maintainers and that does not hamper the periodontal status of the abutment tooth.

Bilateral Supplemental Permanent Maxillary Lateral Incisor in a Non-syndromic Pediatric Patient: A Rare Case Report.

In the present case report, a 13-year-old girl patient has bilateral supplementary maxillary lateral incisors, a rare type of supernumerary teeth. During a regular checkup, it was discovered that the patient had these additional teeth, although she had no notable medical or dental history. The patient had no symptoms, even though they may have led to occlusal problems. The tooth's morphology was identical to that of the nearby natural teeth, and radiographic imaging verified full root growth. The example illustrates the importance of early diagnosis and individualized treatment planning, taking into account the patient's decision to keep the extra teeth while attending to the main issue of widespread dental sensitivity. This study emphasizes the necessity for tailored patient treatment and the variations in the management of extra teeth.

Intentional Replantation as a Viable Option for Crown-Root Fracture in Maxillary Central Incisor: A Case Report.

Crown-root fractures are often challenging to treat and have a poor prognosis. The present case explains the successful management of a vertically fractured tooth treated by intentional replantation in a 12-year-old child. The patient underwent a successful 12-month follow-up, which included a mobility test and measurement of the gingival sulcus depth. Additionally, a radiological assessment was performed to evaluate the root resorption, the integrity of the alveolar cortex, and the periodontal space. We suggest that intentional replantation may be an effective therapeutic approach for the treatment of cases of vertical crown-root fractures.

Traditional Versus Advanced Pulp Capping Materials in Primary Teeth.

In situations where pulp degeneration and carious lesions may coexist, pulp therapy is a regularly employed method. Mineral trioxide aggregate, a material that is now utilized for indirect pulp treatment (IPT), is nontoxic and nonmutagenic. There is proof that the restoration margin can be sealed to manage the caries lesion. In terms of the clinical and radiological outcome, it has been demonstrated that IPT is more effective and secure than direct pulp capping and pulpotomy. The pulp capping treatment's goal is to protect the pulp from microorganisms as well as from thermal, electrical, chemical, and physical stimulation. There is evidence that suggests targeted caries clearance and composite restoration may stop caries lesions more effectively than full dentin removal. Various pulp capping materials that are available in the market were highlighted in this review, and the discussion of each material was expanded to demonstrate its clinical efficacy. Articles were specifically selected and discussed for the materials used for the IPT in the primary teeth as very few studies have been done so far in relation to this subject. A literature search in various libraries, including PubMed, Cochrane, ResearchGate, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and other libraries, was done for several available materials that have been used for the IPT procedure in primary dentition in the last 20 years.

RésuméDans les situations où une dégénérescence pulpaire et des lésions carieuses peuvent coexister, la thérapie pulpaire est une méthode régulièrement employée. Agrégat de trioxyde minéral, un matériau qui est maintenant utilisé pour le traitement indirect de la pulpe (IPT), est non toxique et non mutagène. Il est prouvé que la marge de restauration peutêtre scellé pour gérer la lésion carieuse. En termes de résultats cliniques et radiologiques, il a été démontré que le TPI est plus efficace et plus sûr que le coiffage pulpaire direct et la pulpotomie. Le but du traitement de coiffage pulpaire est de protéger la pulpe des micro-organismes ainsi que des stimulation thermique, électrique, chimique et physique. Il existe des preuves suggérant que l'élimination ciblée des caries et la restauration composite peuventarrêter les lésions carieuses plus efficacement que l'ablation complète de la dentine. Divers matériaux de bouchage pulpaire disponibles sur le marché ont été mis en avantdans cette revue, et la discussion de chaque matériau a été élargie pour démontrer son efficacité clinique. Les articles ont été spécifiquement sélectionnés etdiscuté pour les matériaux utilisés pour l'IPT dans les dents de lait, car très peu d'études ont été réalisées jusqu'à présent sur ce sujet. Littérature une recherche dans diverses bibliothèques, notamment PubMed, Cochrane, ResearchGate, Scopus, ScienceDirect et d'autres bibliothèques, a été effectuée pour plusieurs matériaux disponibles qui ont été utilisés pour la procédure IPT en dentition primaire au cours des 20 dernières années.

Comparative Evaluation of the Survival Rates of Atraumatic Restorative Treatment Restorations Using Bilayer Technique along with Nanofilled Coating in Primary Molars: A Clinical Study.

Objective: To enhance the survival rate of atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) restorations using (class I and class II) bilayer technique of placing glass ionomer cement (GIC) along with nanofilled coating (NC) over the restorations, thereby improving longevity. Study design: A total of 178 primary molars in 67 children were selected and randomly divided into four groups. Group IA was treated with a single layer of GIC, followed by a protective layer of petroleum jelly in class I restoration. Group IB was treated with a single layer of GIC, followed by a protective layer of petroleum jelly in class II restoration. Group IIA was treated with bilayer GIC restoration followed by NC of GC-Coat Plus in class I, whereas group IIB was treated with bilayer GIC restoration followed by GC-Coat Plus in class II. Clinical analysis of all three groups was performed at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months to evaluate the success of treatment procedures using predetermined criteria. Pearson's Chi-square and Kaplan-Meier estimates were utilized to evaluate the success of all four treatment procedures (p < 0.05). Results: Out of 178 teeth, 33 teeth were in group IA, 36 teeth were in group IB, 43 teeth were in group IIA, and 40 teeth were available for evaluation at the end of the 12-month follow-up period. The overall success was determined to be 81% for group IA, 79.2% for group IB, 79.5% for group IIA, and 88.6% for IIB. At 6th-month follow-up, one clinical failure was observed in groups IA and IB. At 9 months follow-up, two clinical failures were observed in both group IA and group IB and three failures were observed in group IIB. At 12 months follow-up, four clinical failures were observed in group IA, three in group IB and one clinical failure was observed in group IIB. There was no statistically significant difference observed between the success of the four groups, suggesting that either of the techniques can be utilized for ART. Conclusion: No statistically significant difference was observed between the survival of class I and class II restorations of both the groups, indicating that either single-layer or bilayer technique along with NC can be adopted for the management of dental caries in primary molars using the ART approach. How to cite this article: Khan N, Garg N, Garg N, et al. Comparative Evaluation of the Survival Rates of Atraumatic Restorative Treatment Restorations Using Bilayer Technique along with Nanofilled Coating in Primary Molars: A Clinical Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(S-1):S55-S60.

Success of Lesion Sterilization and Tissue Repair Therapy and Pulpectomy in the Management of Infected Primary Molars with Poor Prognosis.

Background and aim: To establish lesion sterilization and tissue repair (LSTR) therapy as an alternate treatment option in managing infected primary molars with poor prognosis that were indicated for extraction, thereby fulfilling the objective of retaining the primary tooth till its normal exfoliation in the dental arch. Materials and methods: A total of 84 children who met the inclusion criteria requiring extraction in 142 teeth involving primary molars were included in the study. The selected patients were allocated to two groups, that is, group I-LSTR therapy with 3Mix-MP paste and group II-pulpectomy with metapex. All the treated teeth were then clinically and radiographically evaluated after 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively, to determine the success between groups I and II. Pearson's Chi-squared test along with the z-test was used to compare the clinical and radiographic success of the two groups (p < 0.05). Results: Pain and tenderness were completely resolved within one month of follow-up in both groups. Abscesses were resolved completely at 1 month in the pulpectomy group and mobility was resolved at 6 months follow-up in both groups. Interradicular and periradicular radiolucency persisted even at 12 months of the follow-up period in both groups. The intergroup comparison revealed no statistical differences between LSTR and pulpectomy procedure and both were equally effective at all time intervals (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Both LSTR therapy with 3Mix-MP and pulpectomy with metapex showed 100% clinical success rates. Radiographically no changes were observed even at the 12-month follow-up period in both groups. LSTR therapy can be an alternative treatment option for pulpally involved primary teeth with poor prognosis and in cases where mechanical instrumentation could not be achieved due to physiologic root resorption. How to cite this article: Sefa I, Garg N, Pathivada L, et al. Success of Lesion Sterilization and Tissue Repair Therapy and Pulpectomy in the Management of Infected Primary Molars with Poor Prognosis. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(1):41-47.

Generalized Non-syndromic Hypertaurodontism With Delayed Eruption: A Case Report.

Taurodontism is a rare dental anomaly defined by a change in tooth shape due to Hertwig's epithelial sheath not folding inward at the right horizontal level. It has a larger pulp chamber and a pulpal floor that is shifted apically, and the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) is not constricted. This condition is more frequently observed in permanent teeth than in primary teeth and can occur in a bilateral or unilateral manner, affecting any quadrant or group of teeth. This brief case report discusses a 14-year-old female patient who presented with complaints of decayed teeth in the lower right and left posterior regions of the jaw. Radiographic examination revealed the presence of non-syndromic taurodontism in both the deciduous teeth and their permanent successors. Dental management included oral prophylaxis, application of pit and fissure sealants, indirect pulp capping, and restoration with glass ionomer cement for the affected teeth.

Unravelling the Complexities of Bite Force Determinants in Paediatric Patients: A Literature Review.

The amount of maximum voluntary bite force (MVBF) is determined by the combined action of the jaw elevator muscles, which are altered jaw biomechanics and reflex processes. Bite force (BF) measurements can yield valuable information on the activity and function of the jaw muscles. The accuracy of biting force measurements depends on several variables, including age, gender, malocclusion, dental caries, dental prostheses and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This information is essential for evaluating the development and function of the masticatory system, identifying potential abnormalities or impairments and guiding appropriate treatment interventions for paediatric patients. The aim of this article is to review the literature on the factors affecting bite force and the importance of these factors in assessing dental development and guiding interventions for paediatric patients with bite force-related issues. Additionally, establishing normative values for bite force in different age groups can aid in monitoring growth and detecting any deviations from expected patterns. Measuring bite force in paediatric patients is significant in comprehensive oral health assessment and management.

Solitary Median Maxillary Central Incisor Syndrome: A Case Report of a Unique Dental Anomaly.

Solitary median maxillary central incisor (SMMCI) syndrome is complex and usually develops 35-38 days postconception during the intrauterine period. A noteworthy discovery is that just one central incisor in the maxillary alveolus, found exactly on the centerline, is present in both deciduous and permanent dentitions with other congenital anomalies. Around one in every 50,000 live babies exhibits this abnormality. This report describes the case of a 13-year-old female patient with SMMCI syndrome with a complaint about an unsightly appearance due to a single large upper front tooth. We underline the importance of increasing clinician awareness of SMMCI syndrome and the need for a multidisciplinary approach to its care.

Success Rates of Antibiotic Sterilization, Indirect Pulp Treatment, and Pulpotomy in the Management of Primary Teeth with Deep Carious Lesions.

Background and aim: A new concept of antibiotic sterilization has come into existence which can be used to sterilize the demineralized portion of the teeth with minimal or ultraconservative excavation of caries in deep dentinal carious lesions as an alternative for indirect pulp therapy (IPT) and pulpotomy to avoid further complications. This study was undertaken to compare the success rates of antibiotic sterilization, indirect pulp treatment, and pulpotomy in the management of primary teeth with deep carious lesion. Materials and methods: Ninety teeth involving deep carious lesions approaching pulp in primary molars were selected and randomly divided into three groups containing 30 teeth. Group I was treated with antibiotic sterilization using 3Mix-MP paste, group II was treated with indirect pulp treatment using calcium hydroxide, and group III was treated with conventional pulpotomy using 15.5% ferric sulfate (FS) solution. Clinical and radiographic analysis of all three groups was performed at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months to evaluate the success of treatment procedures using predetermined criteria. Pearson's Chi-squared test and McNemar test were used for statistical analysis. Results: At the end of the 12-month follow-up period, the overall clinical and radiographic success was determined to be 96.3% for group I, 100% for group II, and 96.4% for group III. There were no statistically significant differences observed between the success of three groups, suggesting that either of the procedures can be adopted for the management of deep carious lesions approaching pulp in primary teeth. Conclusion: Antibiotic sterilization can be introduced as a newer modality in the management of deep carious lesions approaching pulp in primary teeth which is ultraconservative in nature and reduces the risk of pulp exposure in comparison with indirect pulp treatment and pulpotomy procedures. How to cite this article: Saxena D, Garg N, Pathivada L, et al. Success Rates of Antibiotic Sterilization, Indirect Pulp Treatment, and Pulpotomy in the Management of Primary Teeth with Deep Carious Lesions. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(3):237-242.

Anterior Open Bite Treated With Palatal Crib and Myofunctional Therapy: A Case Report.

The most prevalent oral habit and one of the most often habitual behavioral patterns in preschool-aged children is thumb-sucking. This behavior is crucial to the development of malocclusion and must be addressed carefully since it may cause a secondary tongue thrust that worsens the issue. Developing an effective treatment plan requires determining the underlying cause, which may include psychological, physiological, and or anatomical factors. Overall prevention of behavior needs to be planned for successful outcomes. One such device for treating tongue-thrusting and thumb-sucking habits is the palatal crib. The present case shows the possible effectiveness of palatal crib use in conjunction with myofunctional therapy for a child whose diagnosis involves habitually holding the tongue low and sucking the thumb that causes an anterior open bite (AOB). An 11-year-old boy with flared and spaced upper and lower incisors also had an AOB. Myofunctional therapy was combined with palatal cribs to help the tongue reposition itself and discourage the habit of sucking. The AOB was successfully corrected with an appropriate overjet and overbite after a total of three months of treatment.

Understanding Coping Among Spouses of Persons With Alcohol Use Disorder at a General Hospital Psychiatry Unit De-addiction Center: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction Alcoholism is seen as a severe social and health issue. It usually refers to the excessive and unrestrained intake of alcoholic beverages to the point where it becomes harmful to the health, interpersonal connections, and general social functioning of the drinker. The study aims to comprehend coping strategies used by spouses of people suffering from alcoholism and to make significant contributions to the fields of addiction and mental health services. Methodology The study was conducted at a General Hospital Psychiatry Unit De-addiction Center from November 2020 to April 2021. Fifty spouses of people with alcohol use disorder (AUD) diagnoses took part in total. Structured questionnaires were used to gather sociodemographic data. The degree of AUD was measured with the Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ), and coping mechanisms were examined with the Questionnaire of Coping Strategies Used by Spouses of Alcoholic Clients. Results Out of 120 screened patients, 50 spouses participated in the study. The mean age of the spouses was 33.66 years and 35.08 years for husbands. Sixty percent of the spouses mainly worked in unskilled labor, and the majority (80%) were between the ages of 26 and 35. Based on SADQ scores, about 50% of husbands exhibited severe alcohol dependence. Among the spouses, engaged coping techniques were more common than tolerant or withdrawal coping strategies. Conclusion The results highlight the need for specialized therapies and support services to help spouses of people with AUD better manage their stress and improve their general well-being. Comprehending coping mechanisms within this framework can enhance therapy practice and lead to better results for AUD sufferers and their families.

The Effect of Three-point Acupressure Therapy on Anxiety Levels in Children Undergoing Dental Procedures.

Background and aim: To evaluate the efficacy of three-point acupressure therapy in decreasing the dental anxiety in children undergoing dental procedures and to introduce acupressure as a simple, noninvasive, and cost-effective technique of reducing dental anxiety in children. Materials and methods: One hundred and sixty-eight, 8-12 years participants who met the inclusion criteria were randomly allotted to either group I (three-point acupressure) (n = 84) or group II (control) (n = 84). All children were subjected to a self-report measure of anxiety [Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale (MCDAS)] 30 minutes before starting and after completing the dental treatment. For group I children, acupressure beads were applied on selected three acupoints for approximately 10 minutes and were left adhered in place. After 20 minutes, anxiety scores were recorded for all the children and allotted treatment procedure was initiated. For group II children, the same methodology was followed except for the application of acupressure beads. Frankl behavior (FB) rating scale, pulse rate (PR), and systemic saturation levels of oxygen were also recorded as secondary outcome measures. The data obtained was analyzed statistically using Chi-squared analysis, t-test, repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) along with post hoc Bonferroni test. Significance level was predetermined at p ≤ 0.05. Results: At time frame (TF)-2, significant decrease in anxiety scores was observed in acupressure group irrespective of the treatment procedure, whereas in control group, it increased significantly. PR was also increased in acupressure group and FB scale was improved. In control group, PR increased and behavior was not improved. Between TF-2 and 3, no reduction in anxiety score was observed. Conclusion: The three-point acupressure therapy reduces anxiety in children undergoing dental procedures when compared to nonacupressure group and the difference was statistically significant. Acupressure is a noninvasive stimulation technique applied to acupoints and can be easily administered by a trained pediatric dentist. How to cite this article: Sisodia M, Kaur H, Garg N, et al. The Effect of Three-point Acupressure Therapy on Anxiety Levels in Children Undergoing Dental Procedures. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(2):136-142.

Evaluation of Oxygen Saturation Levels Using a Custom-modified Finger Pulse Oximeter for Assessment of Pulp Vitality in Various Clinical Situations in Pediatric Dental Practice: An In Vivo Study.

Background: A major drawback of traditional pulp testing procedures is that they depend on neural responses rather than vascular circulation. Hence, this study aimed to develop a custom-modified dental sensor using a finger pulse oximeter (PO) that is applicable to any type of tooth so as to test its ability and accuracy in evaluating the oxygen saturation (SaO2) values of teeth at different developmental stages as a measure of pulp vitality. Materials and methods: A customized finger PO was employed to determine the systemic and pulp SaO2 levels in 300 children. A total of 600 teeth (primary and permanent) were divided into group I (100 primary molars), group II (200 permanent molars), group III (200 permanent incisors), and 100 endodontically treated (primary and permanent) teeth were included in group IV. The mean SaO2 values thus obtained in various groups were compared. Results: Intragroup comparison of mean SaO2% of the patient's finger (systemic), test teeth, and control teeth showed significant differences (p ≤ 0.001). Intergroup comparisons also revealed significant differences in most of the groups. Conclusions: The modified PO probe can be applied to any type of tooth. It was found to be accurate and sensitive enough to detect changes in SaO2 levels in various clinical situations irrespective of developmental stage. It proved to be a direct method of evaluation of pulp vitality by objective means. How to cite this article: Patil A, Garg N, Pathivada L, et al. Evaluation of Oxygen Saturation Levels Using a Custom-modified Finger Pulse Oximeter for Assessment of Pulp Vitality in Various Clinical Situations in Pediatric Dental Practice: An In Vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(S-1):S30-S36.