Association between the Mediterranean Diet Index and self-reported Gingival Health Status Indicators in a population of Chilean adults: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Despite the recognized impact of diet on non-communicable diseases, the association between the Mediterranean diet and periodontal diseases is still uncertain. This study aimed to determine the association between adherence to the Mediterranean Diet Index (MDI) and self-reported gingival health status in Chilean adults, exploring the feasibility of using validated web-based survey questionnaires. METHODOLOGY: Cross-sectional data were collected from a representative sample of a population of Chilean adults (18-60 years old) using a low-cost and time-saving methodology. By the PsyToolkit platform, anonymous survey data were downloaded and analyzed in bivariate (crude) and backward stepwise selection multivariate logistic regression models adjusted for sociodemographic determinants, smoking, and dental attendance using STATA 17. Odds ratios (OR) [95% confidence intervals] were estimated. RESULTS: In total, 351 complete statistical data were mostly obtained from female university students who had never smoked and reported having visited a dentist in the previous year. Multivariate regression models showed an association between MDI and very good/good gingival health status (OR 1.18 [95% CI 1.04-1.34], p=0.013), absence of bleeding on toothbrushing (OR 1.12 [95% CI 1.01-1.25], p=0.035), and absence of clinical signs of gingival inflammation (OR 1.24 [95% CI 1.10-1.40], p<0.001), after controlling for age, sex, educational level, smoking, and dental attendance. CONCLUSIONS: We associated adherence to the Mediterranean diet with better self-reported gingival health status in a population of Chilean adults in an entirely web-based research environment. Longitudinal studies with random sampling are required to establish the effect of diet on gingival and periodontal health. Nevertheless, this evidence could contribute to the design of low-cost surveillance programs to reduce the burden of periodontal disease and related "common risk factors".

Association between the Mediterranean Diet Index and self-reported Gingival Health Status Indicators in a population of Chilean adults: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Despite the recognized impact of diet on non-communicable diseases, the association between the Mediterranean diet and periodontal diseases is still uncertain. This study aimed to determine the association between adherence to the Mediterranean Diet Index (MDI) and self-reported gingival health status in Chilean adults, exploring the feasibility of using validated web-based survey questionnaires. Methodology Cross-sectional data were collected from a representative sample of a population of Chilean adults (18-60 years old) using a low-cost and time-saving methodology. By the PsyToolkit platform, anonymous survey data were downloaded and analyzed in bivariate (crude) and backward stepwise selection multivariate logistic regression models adjusted for sociodemographic determinants, smoking, and dental attendance using STATA 17. Odds ratios (OR) [95% confidence intervals] were estimated. Results In total, 351 complete statistical data were mostly obtained from female university students who had never smoked and reported having visited a dentist in the previous year. Multivariate regression models showed an association between MDI and very good/good gingival health status (OR 1.18 [95% CI 1.04-1.34], p=0.013), absence of bleeding on toothbrushing (OR 1.12 [95% CI 1.01-1.25], p=0.035), and absence of clinical signs of gingival inflammation (OR 1.24 [95% CI 1.10-1.40], p<0.001), after controlling for age, sex, educational level, smoking, and dental attendance. Conclusions We associated adherence to the Mediterranean diet with better self-reported gingival health status in a population of Chilean adults in an entirely web-based research environment. Longitudinal studies with random sampling are required to establish the effect of diet on gingival and periodontal health. Nevertheless, this evidence could contribute to the design of low-cost surveillance programs to reduce the burden of periodontal disease and related "common risk factors".

Sinopsis de la Situación de Salud Oral en Chile - Parte IV: Traumatismo Dentoalveolar

RESUMEN: Objetivo: Sintetizar los resultados de estudios epidemiológicos sobre Traumatismo Dentoalveolar (TDA) en la población chilena. Material y métodos: Se realizó una revisión sistemática de la literatura para identificar estudios poblacionales a nivel nacional, regional, provincial y comunal, además de datos de servicios dentales de atención primaria y secundaria sobre TDA en Chile. Resultados: Se incluyeron 2 estudios con representatividad nacional y 8 realizados en centros de atención en salud. A nivel nacional, la prevalencia de TDA a los 6 años fue de un 2.57%, y a los 12 años, 4.97%. En los estudios realizados en centros de salud, el diagnóstico más prevalente en dentición primaria fueron las lesiones de tejidos de soporte y en dentición permanente, la fractura coronaria. Fue más frecuente la afectación de un solo diente, y los incisivos centrales superiores fueron los dientes más afectados. Conclusiones: Los estudios representativos de la población en Chile son escasos, realizados hace más de una década y representativos sólo de la población de 6 y 12 años, lo cual pone de manifiesto la necesidad de mayor información epidemiológica sobre el TDA en la población chilena.

ABSTRACT: Aim: To summarize the evidence on epidemiological studies about traumatic dental injuries (TDI) in Chile. Methods: A systematic literature review was carried out in two databases to identify population studies at national, regional, provincial and community levels, as well as reports from primary and secondary dental care services, regarding TDI in Chile. Results: Two studies with national representation and eight studies from primary and secondary healthcare centers were included in the analysis. National prevalence for 6-year-old children was 2.57%, and 4.97% for 12-year-old children. While the most frequent diagnosis in primary dentition was traumatic injury involving tooth-supporting tissues, the most commonly reported diagnosis in permanent dentition was crown fracture. Single tooth affection was more frequent, and the upper central incisors were the most affected teeth. Conclusions: Data on representative studies about TDIs in Chile are scarce. Few studies, carried out more than a decade ago and only on 6- and 12-year-old children are available. There is a need for further epidemiological information about TDIs in Chile.

Developing a protocol for a preventive oral health exam for elderly people (EDePAM) using E-Delphi methodology.

The aim of this study was to develop a Preventive Oral Health Exam for Elderly People (EDePAM), using the e-Delphi technique, to diagnose oral health problems in people 65 or older. The e-Delphi technique was used with experts in multiple stages, and in a final workshop, where an agreement on an examination protocol was reached for diagnosing dental caries, oral mucosa lesions, periodontal diseases, and masticatory function disorders. Quantitative analyses of all the rounds of the e-Delphi method were conducted. It was agreed that the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) should be used together with a modified version of the Nyvad criteria to detect and assess caries lesions. It was also agreed that an assessment was needed of the different factors involved in determining caries risk, namely socioeconomic level, access to fluoride, level of dependence/functionality, salivary flow, history of head and neck cancer treatment, use of medications that decrease salivary flow, diet, use of removable dental prostheses, exposure of root surfaces, and caries history. Furthermore, patients would be required to undergo an examination of the oral mucosa, where any existing lesion should be described in terms of its clinical appearance, location, and risk potential. It was also agreed that an assessment of masticatory function should be performed using the Leake index, together with chewing-gum combined with a color scale to categorize masticatory performance. The number of pairs of occluding antagonist teeth was considered as the best predictor of masticatory function. The 2018 classification by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) / European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) was accepted as the standard to assess periodontal status, and it was agreed that this assessment should include an evaluation of clinical attachment loss and bleeding on probing. The novel EDePAM was considered as appropriate for conducting a functional assessment of oral health by providing a comprehensive diagnosis of oral diseases.

Developing a protocol for a preventive oral health exam for elderly people (EDePAM) using E-Delphi methodology

Abstract The aim of this study was to develop a Preventive Oral Health Exam for Elderly People (EDePAM), using the e-Delphi technique, to diagnose oral health problems in people 65 or older. The e-Delphi technique was used with experts in multiple stages, and in a final workshop, where an agreement on an examination protocol was reached for diagnosing dental caries, oral mucosa lesions, periodontal diseases, and masticatory function disorders. Quantitative analyses of all the rounds of the e-Delphi method were conducted. It was agreed that the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) should be used together with a modified version of the Nyvad criteria to detect and assess caries lesions. It was also agreed that an assessment was needed of the different factors involved in determining caries risk, namely socioeconomic level, access to fluoride, level of dependence/functionality, salivary flow, history of head and neck cancer treatment, use of medications that decrease salivary flow, diet, use of removable dental prostheses, exposure of root surfaces, and caries history. Furthermore, patients would be required to undergo an examination of the oral mucosa, where any existing lesion should be described in terms of its clinical appearance, location, and risk potential. It was also agreed that an assessment of masticatory function should be performed using the Leake index, together with chewing-gum combined with a color scale to categorize masticatory performance. The number of pairs of occluding antagonist teeth was considered as the best predictor of masticatory function. The 2018 classification by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) / European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) was accepted as the standard to assess periodontal status, and it was agreed that this assessment should include an evaluation of clinical attachment loss and bleeding on probing. The novel EDePAM was considered as appropriate for conducting a functional assessment of oral health by providing a comprehensive diagnosis of oral diseases.

Las Políticas de Salud Oral en el contexto de las enfermedades no transmisibles: Un desafío pendiente en Chile / Oral Health Policies in the context of non-communicable diseases: A pending challenge in Chile

RESUMEN: Las enfermedades no transmisibles constituyen la mayor carga de enfermedad en Chile y el mundo. La estrecha interrelación preventiva y terapéutica entre las enfermedades orales y las enfermedades sistémicas en el contexto de las enfermedades no transmisibles, pone de manifiesto la urgente necesidad de diseñar políticas públicas que permitan incorporar la salud oral en el control de estas enfermedades. A pesar de que en Chile se han implementado programas para el tratamiento de las principales enfermedades orales en grupos priorizados, a través de garantías explicitas en salud y de otros programas odontológicos, estas prestaciones no están dirigidas a personas con enfermedades cardiovasculares, diabetes u otras enfermedades no transmisibles de alto impacto en la población. Aunque, la evidencia disponible y las recomendaciones de las organizaciones científicas internacionales, fundamentan la incorporación de la salud oral en los planes y programas de salud general, lamentablemente un enfoque médico-odontológico más integrado en el control y manejo de las enfermedades no transmisibles sigue siendo un desafío pendiente en Chile.

ABSTRACT: Non-communicable diseases constitute the greatest burden of disease in Chile and the world. The close preventive and therapeutic relationship between oral diseases and systemic diseases in the context of non-communicable diseases, highlights the urgent need to design health policies that allow the incorporation of oral health in the control of these diseases. Despite the implementation of programs in Chile for the treatment of the main oral diseases in prioritized groups, through explicit guarantees in health and other dental programs, these benefits are not aimed at people with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes or other non-communicable diseases with high impact on the population. The available evidence and the recommendations of international scientific organizations support the incorporation of oral health in general health plans and programs. Unfortunately, a more integrated medical-dental approach in the control and management of non-communicable diseases remains a pending challenge in Chile.

Salud oral integral para adultos de 60 años: un análisis territorial de su cobertura a 12 años de su implementación / Comprehensive oral health for adults 60 years of age: a territorial analysis of its coverage 12 years after its implementation

INTRODUCCIÓN. Las personas mayores en Chile tienen alta carga de morbilidad oral y de déficit funcional que afecta directamente su calidad de vida. El programa universal GES Salud Oral Integral del adulto de 60 años, implementado desde el 2007, permite a las personas de 60 años acceder a tratamiento odontológico integral, aunque a la fecha se tiene pocos antecedentes de sus resultados. El objetivo de este estudio es estimar la cobertura del programa GES 60 para el año 2019 de los beneficiarios FONASA y su variabilidad territorial desagregada por Servicio de Salud (SS), sexo y tipo de prestador (público o compra de servicios). MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS. Se realizó un estudio observacional ecológico, utilizando fuentes de datos secundarios de uso público (DEIS, FONASA). Se estimó la cobertura nacional total y por sexo, estratificada para cada SS. RESULTADOS. La cobertura del programa en el sector público de salud fue de un 22,8% el año 2019. La menor cobertura se observó en el SS Arica (5,3%) y la mayor en el SS Arauco (37,9%). La cobertura nacional fue significativamente mayor (valor p=0,001) en mujeres (27,1%) que en hombres (17,9%). La compra de servicios a proveedores externos totalizó el 12,2% de las altas dentales, siendo esta proporción heterogénea entre SS con relación inversa entre Compra de servicios y Cobertura. DISCUSIÓN. La cobertura para el año evaluado fue baja, siendo insuficiente para poder resolver la alta carga de morbilidad de las personas mayores chilenas. Existe una amplia variabilidad territorial de la cobertura, presentando diferencias por sexo y en la compra de servicios.

INTRODUCTION. Elderly people in Chile have a high burden of oral morbidity and functional deficits that directly affect their quality of life. The universal GES program: "Comprehensive Oral Health for the 60-year-old adult", implemented since 2007, allows 60-year-olds to access comprehensive dental treatment, however there is limited evidence of its results to date.The aim of this study is to estimate the coverage of the program for the year 2019 of the public health insurance FONASA beneficiaries and their territorial variability disaggregated by Health Service (HS), sex and type of provider (public or purchase of services). MATERIALS AND METHODS. An observational ecological study was carried out, using secondary data from public sources (DEIS, FONASA). Total national coverage and by sex was estimated, stratified for each SS. Results. The coverage of the program in the public health sector was 22.8% in 2019. The lowest coverage was observed in Arica HS (5.3%) and the highest in Arauco HS (37.9%). National coverage was significantly higher (p-value = 0.001) in women (27.1%) than in men (17.9%). Purchase of services from external providers totaled 12.2% of the dental discharges, this pro-portion being heterogeneous between SS with an inverse relationship between "Purchase of services" and "Coverage". DISCUSSION. The coverage for the evaluated year was low, being insufficient to be able to solve the high burden of morbidity of Chilean elderly. There is a wide territorial variability of coverage, presenting differences by sex and in the purchase of services.

Sinopsis de la Situación de Salud Oral en Chile - Parte III: Encuestas Nacionales de Salud / Synopsis or the Oral Health Situation in Chile - Part III: National Health Surveys

RESUMEN: Este artículo realiza una revisión y síntesis de las principales encuestas poblacionales de salud en Chile. Se describen sus principales características y hallazgos con el objetivo de orientar a los profesionales odontólogos en el conocimiento de material existente para el diagnóstico odontológico objetivo, así como el impacto de la salud oral en la calidad de vida, a nivel poblacional.

ABSTRACT: This article makes a brief review and synthesis of national health surveys in Chile. The article describes the main characteristics and findings in order to guide dental professionals with the knowledge of the existing material for an objective population oral health diagnosis, as well as the impact of oral health on quality of life of the population.

Sinopsis de la Situación de Salud Oral en Chile - Parte II: Diagnósticos Poblacionales de Salud Oral / Synopsis or the Oral Health Situation in Chile - Part II: Oral Health Surveys

RESUMEN: Objetivo: Sintetizar los resultados sobre los estudios epidemiológicos de caries dental, enfermedad periodontal, desdentamiento y lesiones de mucosa oral de base poblacional con representatividad nacional y regional en adultos chilenos (≥15 años). Materiales y métodos: Se realizó una revisión narrativa para identificar aquellos estudios de diagnóstico de salud bucal, a nivel nacional y/o regional, en población adulta de Chile (≥15 años), con el objetivo de establecer prevalencias para las patologías bucales de mayor relevancia nacional. Resultados: Se identificaron 6 estudios de representatividad nacional y 7 estudios de representatividad regional. Se reporta una disminución en la prevalencia de caries cavitadas y de dentición no funcional, correspondiendo a un 54.6% y 27.0%, respectivamente. La prevalencia de pérdida de inserción clínica ≥4mm., es cercana al 100%. La lesión de mucosa oral más prevalente fue la estomatitis subprotésica (22.3%). Se observaron inequidades socieconómicas y culturales en la distribución de las patologías orales en la población adulta chilena. Conclusiones: Existe una alta prevalencia de enfermedad periodontal, caries, desdentamiento y lesiones de mucosa oral en adultos y adultos mayores chilenos.

ABSTRACT Aim: To synthesize results of epidemiologic national and regional studies about dental caries, periodontal diseases, tooth loss and oral mucosa lesions in Chilean adults (≥15 years- old). Methods: A narrative revision was made in order to identify epidemiologic national or regional studies in Chilean adults (≥15 years- old). The objective was to establish the prevalence of the most common oral diseases. Results: Six national and seven regional studies were identified. The prevalence of non-treated caries and non- functional dentition was reduced to 54.6% and 27.0%, respectively. The prevalence of periodontal attachment loss ≥4mm. was almost 100%. The most frequent oral mucosa lesion was denture stomatitis (22.3%). Socioeconomic and cultural disparities were observed in the distribution of oral diseases in Chilean adults. Conclusions: The prevalence of dental caries, periodontal diseases, tooth loss and oral mucosa lesions was high in Chilean adults and elderly people.

Effect of periodontal treatment in patients with periodontitis and diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract The evidence is inconclusive regarding the effect of periodontal treatment on glycemic control and systemic inflammation in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and periodontitis Objective: To evaluate the effect of scaling and root planing (SRP) on the metabolic control and systemic inflammation of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methodology: A literature search was conducted using the MEDLINE database via PubMed and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, from their oldest records up to July 2018. Only randomized clinical trials (RCT) were considered eligible for evaluating the effect of periodontal treatment on markers of metabolic control [glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C)] and systemic inflammation [C-reactive protein (CRP)] in patients with T2D. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration risk assessment tool. Meta-analyses were performed for HbA1c and CRP using random effects models. The size of the overall intervention effect was estimated by calculating the weighted average of the differences in means (DM) between the groups in each study. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Q-statistic method (x2 and I²). The level of significance was established at p<0.05. Results: Nine RCT were included. SRP was effective in reducing HbA1c [DM=0.56 (0.36-0.75); p<0.01] and CRP [DM=1.89 (1.70-2.08); p<0.01]. No heterogeneity was detected (I2=0%, p>0.05). Conclusions: SRP has an impact on metabolic control and reduction of systemic inflammation of patients with T2D.

Periodontal disease and its impact on general health in Latin America: LAOHA Consensus Meeting Report

Abstract: Periodontal diseases are considered a worldwide public health problem, owing to their high prevalence in developed and developing countries. Periodontitis may lead to tooth loss, which can impact oral health-related quality of life. Gingivitis and periodontitis have been extensively studied regarding their etiopathogenesis, epidemiology, prevention and treatment outcomes. However, most of these aspects are studied and discussed globally, which may hamper a clear interpretation of the findings and the design of effective plans of action for specific regions or populations. For example, in Latin America, epidemiological data about the distribution of periodontal diseases is still scarce, mainly when it comes to nationwide representative samples. This Consensus aimed to address the following topics related to periodontal diseases in Latin America: a) The impact of the global burden of periodontal diseases on health: a global reality; b) Periodontal diseases in Latin America; c) Strategies for the prevention of periodontal diseases in Latin America; d) Problems associated with diagnosis of periodontal conditions and possible solutions for Latin America; e) Treatment of Periodontitis. This consensus will help to increase awareness about diagnosis, prevention and treatment of periodontal diseases, in the context of Latin American countries.

Impact of smoking on gingival inflammation in representative samples of three South American cities.

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of smoking on gingival inflammation in a representative sample of 1,650 adults from Santiago (Chile), Porto Alegre (Brazil), and Tucumán (Argentina). A questionnaire was administered to participants to gather demographic and behavioral characteristics, including smoking habits. The participants were clinically examined to obtain gingival index (GI), gingival bleeding index (GBI), visible plaque index (VPI), and calculus presence values. Gingival inflammation was defined as a mean GI > 0.5. Heavy smokers presented significantly lower levels of gingival inflammation, as reflected by both GI and GBI, than both light and moderate smokers, despite their having increased amounts of plaque and calculus. Being 50 years old or older [odds ratio (OR), 1.93], a VPI ≥ 30% (OR, 28.1), and self-reported diabetes (OR, 2.79) were positively associated with detection of gingival inflammation. In conclusion, the occurrence of clinically detectable gingival inflammation was lower in heavy smokers than light and moderate smokers. Older age, diabetes, and visible plaque emerged as risk indicators of gingivitis. Plaque and gingival indices are significantly associated regardless of the smoking status.

Impact of smoking on gingival inflammation in representative samples of three South American cities

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of smoking on gingival inflammation in a representative sample of 1,650 adults from Santiago (Chile), Porto Alegre (Brazil), and Tucumán (Argentina). A questionnaire was administered to participants to gather demographic and behavioral characteristics, including smoking habits. The participants were clinically examined to obtain gingival index (GI), gingival bleeding index (GBI), visible plaque index (VPI), and calculus presence values. Gingival inflammation was defined as a mean GI > 0.5. Heavy smokers presented significantly lower levels of gingival inflammation, as reflected by both GI and GBI, than both light and moderate smokers, despite their having increased amounts of plaque and calculus. Being 50 years old or older [odds ratio (OR), 1.93], a VPI ≥ 30% (OR, 28.1), and self-reported diabetes (OR, 2.79) were positively associated with detection of gingival inflammation. In conclusion, the occurrence of clinically detectable gingival inflammation was lower in heavy smokers than light and moderate smokers. Older age, diabetes, and visible plaque emerged as risk indicators of gingivitis. Plaque and gingival indices are significantly associated regardless of the smoking status.

Sinopsis de la Situación de Salud Oral en Chile - Parte I: Garantías Explícitas y Guías Clínicas / Synopsis of the Oral Health Situation in Chile - Part I: Explicit Guarantees and Clinical Guidelines

RESUMEN: El presente artículo realiza una breve revisión y síntesis sobre las Garantías Explícitas en Salud Bucal vigentes en Chile y las Guías de Práctica Clínica asociadas a su ejercicio. Se muestra una breve cronología de la reforma de salud de la cual se originan, describiendo sus principales pilares de desarrollo. Esta actualización tiene como objetivo orientar a los profesionales odontólogos de los Servicios de Salud, Sociedades Científicas, Universidades y entidades públicas y privadas que desarrollan la práctica odontológica en Chile, en el conocimiento del material existente, validado y disponible a la fecha.

ABSTRACT This article makes a brief review and synthesis of the Explicit Guarantees in Oral Health in force in Chile and the Clinical Practice Guidelines associated with their practice. It shows a brief chronology of the health reform from which they originate, describing their main pillars of development. The purpose of this update is to guide the dental professionals of the Health Services, Scientific Societies, Universities and public and private services that develop the dental practice in Chile, with the knowledge of the existing material, validated and available to date.

Efectos clínicos de Lactobacillus reuteri en el tratamiento de la gingivitis: Ensayo clínico aleatorizado controlado / Clinical effect of Lactobacillus reuteri in the treatment of gingivitis: a randomized controlled clinical trial

RESUMEN: Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia de L. reuteri como adjunto en el tratamiento de la gingivitis. Material y Métodos: Se realizó un ensayo clínico aleatorizado placebo controlado en sujetos con gingivitis durante 3 meses. El grupo test recibió una tableta por día de la cepa probiótica Lactobacillus reuteri (dosis 2x10(8) UFC por día), el grupo control recibió las mismas tabletas pero sin bacterias vivas. La variable de resultado principal fue el índice gingival (IG), y las variables de resultado secundarias fueron el índice de placa (IP) y el índice de sangrado al sondaje (IS). Se realizó comparación intra e inter-grupos en el basal y al finalizar la intervención (3 meses). Resultados: Fueron incluidos en el análisis un total de 30 sujetos (15 test, 15 control). No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los grupos en el basal (p> 0.05). Después de 3 meses de intervención se produjo en ambos grupos una disminución estadísticamente significativa en el índice gingival, índice de sangrado al sondaje e índice de placa (p< 0.05). Se detectó una significativa reducción en el número de sitios con IG 2 solo en el grupo test (p< 0.05). Conclusiones: El uso de tabletas de probiótico con L. reuteri como adjunto en el tratamiento de la gingivitis, produce una significativa reducción en el número de sitios que presentan inflamación más severa.

ABSTRACT: Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of L. reuteri as adjunct in the treatment of the gingivitis. Materials and Methods: A placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in gingivitis subjects for 3 months. Test treatment consisted of the administration of one tablet per day containing the probiotic strain Lactobacillus reuteri (doses 2x10(8) UFC per day), the control group received the same tablets but without live bacteria. The main outcome variable was the change in gingival index (GI), and the secondary outcome variables were the plaque index (PII) and the bleeding on probing (BoP). Outcome variables were compared between and within groups at baseline and at the end of intervention (3 months). Results: A total of 30 subjects (15 test, 15 control) were included in the analysis. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups at baseline (p> 0.05). Both treatment groups experienced a statistically significant improvement in the GI, PII and BoP (p < 0.05). There was a significant reduction in the number of sites with GI 2 only in the test group (p< 0.05). Conclusions: The use of probiotic tablets containing L. reuteri produces a significant reduction in the number of sites with severe inflammation.

A multicenter study of oral health behavior among adult subjects from three South American cities

Abstract The aims of this study were to describe the self-reported oral hygiene habits, dental visit frequency, and gingival bleeding perception in adult populations from three South American cities, and also to assess the association of these variables with sociodemographic data and with the clinical presence of plaque and gingival inflammation. Five-hundred and fifty adult subjects from each city (Porto Alegre, Brazil; Tucumán, Argentina; Santiago, Chile) received full mouth examinations to determine visible plaque and gingival index. A structured questionnaire on demographics, habits, attitudes and knowledge of oral health was also administered. The data were analyzed according to dental visit frequency, toothbrushing frequency, interproximal tooth cleaning frequency, subjects' perception of gum bleeding, and proportion of subject sites with VP and bleeding sites. Analysis of the association among the variables was performed using either a chi-square test or Fischer's exact test. Toothbrushing twice a day or more was reported by 84.2% of the subjects, but only 17.7% reported daily interdental cleaning, and 60.2% reported visiting a dental clinic only in an emergency. Only 2.97% had no bleeding sites, whereas 33.7% had 50% or more bleeding sites. Regular interdental self-cleaning and a dental visit every 3-6 months was associated with less plaque and less gingival bleeding. More than 12 years of education was associated with healthier habits, less bleeding and plaque scores. In conclusion, the oral health behavior of South American adult subjects from these cities is below the international recommendations, especially in relation to interdental cleaning and regular dental visits.

Microbiological and clinical effects of probiotics and antibiotics on nonsurgical treatment of chronic periodontitis: a randomized placebo- controlled trial with 9-month follow-up

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this double-blind, placebo-controlled and parallel- arm randomized clinical trial was to evaluate the effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1-containing probiotic sachet and azithromycin tablets as an adjunct to nonsurgical therapy in clinical parameters and in presence and levels of Tannerella forsythia, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Material and Methods: Forty-seven systemically healthy volunteers with chronic periodontitis were recruited and monitored clinically and microbiologically at baseline for 3, 6 and 9 months after therapy. Subgingival plaque samples were collected from four periodontal sites with clinical attachment level ≥1 mm, probing pocket depth ≥4 mm and bleeding on probing, one site in each quadrant. Samples were cultivated and processed using the PCR technique. Patients received nonsurgical therapy including scaling and root planing (SRP) and were randomly assigned to a probiotic (n=16), antibiotic (n = 16) or placebo (n = 15) group. L. rhamnosus SP1 was taken once a day for 3 months. Azithromycin 500mg was taken once a day for 5 days. Results: All groups showed improvements in clinical and microbiological parameters at all time points evaluated. Probiotic and antibiotic groups showed greater reductions in cultivable microbiota compared with baseline. The placebo group showed greater reduction in number of subjects with P. gingivalis compared with baseline. However, there were no significant differences between groups. Conclusions: The adjunctive use of L. rhamnosus SP1 sachets and azithromycin during initial therapy resulted in similar clinical and microbiological improvements compared with the placebo group.