Exploring age and gender variations in root canal morphology of maxillary premolars in Saudi sub population: a cross-sectional CBCT study.

BACKGROUND: In complex teeth like maxillary premolars, endodontic treatment success depends on a complete comprehension of root canal anatomy. The research on mandibular premolars' root canal anatomy has been extensive and well-documented in existing literature. However, there appears to be a notable gap in available data concerning the root canal anatomy of maxillary premolars. This study aimed to explore the root canal morphology of maxillary premolars using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging, considering age and gender variations. METHODS: From 500 patient CBCT scans, 787 maxillary premolar teeth were evaluated. The sample was divided by gender and age (10-20, 21-30, 31-40, 41-50, 51-60, and 61 years and older). Ahmed et al. classification system was used to record root canal morphology. RESULTS: The most frequent classifications for right maxillary 1st premolars were 2MPM1 B1 L1 (39.03%) and 1MPM1 (2.81%), while the most frequent classifications for right maxillary 2nd premolars were 2MPM1 B1 L1 (39.08%) and 1MPM1 (17.85%). Most of the premolars typically had two roots (left maxillary first premolars: 81.5%, left maxillary second premolars: 82.7%, right maxillary first premolars: 74.4%, right maxillary second premolars: 75.7%). Left and right maxillary 1st premolars for classes 1MPM1 and 1MPM1-2-1 showed significant gender differences. For classifications 1MPM1 and 1MPM1-2-1, age-related changes were seen in the left and right maxillary first premolars. CONCLUSION: This study provides novel insights into the root canal anatomy of maxillary premolars within the Saudi population, addressing a notable gap in the literature specific to this demographic. Through CBCT imaging and analysis of large sample sizes, the complex and diverse nature of root canal morphology in these teeth among Saudi individuals is elucidated. The findings underscore the importance of CBCT imaging in precise treatment planning and decision-making tailored to the Saudi population. Consideration of age and gender-related variations further enhances understanding and aids in personalized endodontic interventions within this demographic.

A clinical case concerning an extraordinary maxillary second molar having two separate palatal roots.

Key Clinical Message: Main objective of root canal therapy is to locate all the canals, cleaning and shaping, and obturation to obtain fluid tight seal. Failure to locate all canals can lead to the failure of root canal therapy. Abstract: Variation of pulp aperture, among teeth with multiple roots, constitutes recurring issue during diagnosing and completing efficient endodontic procedures. Understanding normal anatomy features and associated likely modifications is critical in the effective execution of the dental procedure, since the inability to effectively treat simply one canal may end up into endodontic unsuccessful therapy. The paper covers a procedure whereby the root pattern and canals of the maxillary second molar were modified employing an operative microscope and verified with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Cone-beam computed tomography revealed that the maxillary second molar containing two different palatal roots and canals and two distinct buccal roots and canals. This Research paper presents and investigates the morphological difference observed on the maxillary second molar in order to guarantee the effectiveness of root canal treatment examined utilizing imaging techniques like CBCT.

Unlocking the Potential: Investigating Dental Practitioners' Willingness to Embrace Artificial Intelligence in Dental Practice.

BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) holds significant promise for transforming healthcare delivery, including dentistry. However, the successful integration of AI into dental practice necessitates an understanding of dental professionals' perspectives, attitudes, and readiness to adopt AI technology. This study aimed to explore dental professionals' perceptions, attitudes, and practices regarding AI adoption in dentistry. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 256 dental professionals using an online questionnaire. Participants were assessed for familiarity with AI technology, perceived barriers to adoption, attitudes towards AI, current usage patterns, and factors influencing adoption decisions. Data are analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Inferential statistics, such as chi-square tests and regression analysis, were employed to examine associations between variables and identify predictors of AI adoption in dentistry. RESULTS: The study surveyed 256 dental professionals from various regions across India, primarily aged 30 to 50 years (mean age: 42.6), with a nearly equal gender split (male: 48.4%, female: 51.6%) and high educational attainment (67.8% with master's or doctoral degrees). Private practices were predominant (56.3%). The diagnostic algorithms and treatment planning software were well known (77.3% and 70.3% familiarity, respectively). Technical concerns (average score: 3.82 ± 0.68) were the main barriers to AI adoption, followed by financial considerations (average score: 3.45 ± 0.72), ethical and legal issues (average score: 3.21 ± 0.65), and organizational factors (average score: 3.67 ± 0.71). Despite these concerns, most participants had positive attitudes towards AI (70.3% agreed). Current usage varied, with diagnostic support and administrative tasks being the most common (44.5% and 82.8% usage, respectively). Perceived utility (average score: 4.12 ± 0.75) and ease of use (average score: 3.98 ± 0.69) significantly influenced adoption, as identified by regression analysis (perceived utility: ß = 0.342, p < 0.001; ease of use: ß = 0.267, p = 0.005). CONCLUSION: This study provides valuable insights into AI adoption in dentistry, highlighting the multifaceted nature of barriers and facilitators that influence dental professionals' adoption decisions. Strategies to promote AI adoption should address practical considerations, ethical concerns, and educational needs to facilitate the integration of AI technology into dental practices.

Anticancer potential of thiocolchicoside and lauric acid loaded chitosan nanogel against oral cancer cell lines: a comprehensive study.

The present study explored the anticancer activity of a Chitosan-based nanogel incorporating thiocolchicoside and lauric acid (CTL) against oral cancer cell lines (KB-1). Cell viability, AO/EtBr dual staining and Cell cycle analysis were done to evaluate the impact of CTL nanogel on oral cancer cells. Real-time PCR was performed to analyze proapoptotic and antiapoptotic gene expression in CTL-treated KB-1 cells. Further, molecular docking analysis was conducted to explore the interaction of our key ingredient, thiocolchicoside and its binding affinities. The CTL nanogel demonstrated potent anticancer activity by inhibiting oral cancer cell proliferation and inducing cell cycle arrest in cancer cells. Gene expression analysis indicated alterations in Bax and Bcl-2 genes; CTL nanogel treatment increased Bax mRNA expression and inhibited the Bcl-2 mRNA expression, which showed potential mechanisms of the CTL nanogel's anticancer action. It was found that thiocolchicoside can stabilize the protein's function or restore it as a tumour suppressor. The CTL nanogel exhibited excellent cytotoxicity and potent anticancer effects, making it a potential candidate for non-toxic chemotherapy in cancer nanomedicine. Furthermore, the nanogel's ability to modulate proapoptotic gene expression highlights its potential for targeted cancer therapy. This research contributes to the growing interest in Chitosan-based nanogels and their potential applications in cancer treatment.

Efficacy and Safety of Astaxanthin in the Management of Oral Submucous Fibrosis: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic, potentially malignant disorder characterized by progressive fibrosis of the oral mucosa, leading to restricted mouth opening and discomfort. This study investigates the efficacy and safety of astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory carotenoid, in the comprehensive management of OSMF. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 68 eligible participants diagnosed with OSMF. Participants were randomly assigned to the experimental group (astaxanthin capsules, 5 mg twice daily) or the control group (placebo capsules) for 12 weeks. Primary outcomes included changes in mouth opening and burning sensation assessed by Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Adverse events were monitored to evaluate safety. RESULTS: The experimental group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in mouth opening compared to the control group over the 12-week intervention (p < 0.001). Additionally, the experimental group reported a significant reduction in burning sensation, as indicated by VAS scores (p < 0.001). Adverse events were generally mild and comparable between groups. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that astaxanthin may have a positive impact on mouth opening and burning sensation in individuals with OSMF. The safety profile observed supports the feasibility of astaxanthin as a potential therapeutic adjunct in OSMF management. Further research with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up periods is warranted to validate these findings.

Assessment of the root and canal morphology in the permanent dentition of Saudi Arabian population using cone beam computed and micro-computed tomography - a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Root canal treatment procedures require a thorough understanding of root and canal anatomy. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the morphological differences of teeth root and their canals assessed using cone-beam computed and micro-computed tomography in Saudi Arabian population. METHODOLOGY: An electronic search was conducted in PubMed / Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases until January 2023 to retrieve related studies. "Root canal morphology," "Saudi Arabia," "Micro-CT," and "cone-beam computed tomography" were used as keywords. A modified version of previously published risk of bias assessment tool was used to determine the quality assessment of included studies. RESULTS: The literature search revealed 47 studies that matched the criteria for inclusion, out of which 44 studies used cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and three were micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) studies. According to the modified version of risk of bias assessment tool, the studies were categorized as low, moderate, and high risk of bias. A total of 47,612 samples were included which comprised of either maxillary teeth (5,412), or mandibular teeth (20,572), and mixed teeth (21,327). 265 samples were used in micro-CT studies while 47,347 teeth samples were used in CBCT studies. Among the CBCT studies, except for three, all the studies were retrospective studies. Frequently used imaging machine and software were 3D Accuitomo 170 and Morita's i-Dixel 3D imaging software respectively. Minimum and maximum voxel sizes were 75 and 300 µm, Vertucci's classification was mostly used to classify the root canal morphology of the teeth. The included micro-CT studies were in-vitro studies where SkyScan 1172 X-ray scanner was the imaging machine with pixel size ranging between 13.4 and 27.4 µm. Vertucci, Ahmed et al. and Pomeranz et al. classifications were applied to classify the root canal morphology. CONCLUSION: This systematic review revealed wide variations in root and canal morphology of Saudi population using high resolution imaging techniques. Clinicians should be aware of the common and unusual root and canal anatomy before commencing root canal treatment. Future micro-CT studies are needed to provide additional qualitative and quantitative data presentations.

Evaluation of mechanical properties of anatomically customized fiber posts using E-glass short fiber-reinforced composite to restore weakened endodontically treated premolars.

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to assess the influence of combining different forms of fiber-reinforced composites (FRC) on the mechanical behavior and bond strength of compromised endodontically treated teeth (ETT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty extracted human premolar teeth were randomly divided into five experimental groups according to the type of intra-radicular restoration and the canal preparation design which was either non-flared (Group 1), flared (Groups 2-5), closed-apex (Groups 1,3,5) or open-apex (Groups 2,4). Standard prefabricated fiber posts were used as intra-radicular restoration for Groups 1-3 while Groups 4-5 were restored with anatomically customized relined fiber posts. After composite core fabrication, all samples were sent for an artificial aging process. Fracture resistance and push-out bond strength tests were then carried out through a universal testing machine followed by mode of failure analysis via a stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope. RESULTS: Pairwise Log-Rank comparisons revealed that the survival rate of Group 2 and Group 3 was significantly lower than all other groups after artificial aging. The highest fracture resistance value (1796 N) was recorded in Group 5 and was significantly higher than that of the other groups (p < 0.05), while Group 2 exhibited the lowest fracture resistance (758 N), which was significantly lower compared to the other groups. Group 5 and Group 4 demonstrated a significantly higher push-out bond strength, at all root thirds, than Group 3, Group 2, and Group 1 (p < 0.05). The most frequently observed failure mode in the tested groups occurred between the resin cement and radicular dentin. CONCLUSION: The use of short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) to reline the prefabricated FRC post has been proven to have superior fracture resistance with favorable failure patterns and increased push-out bond strength values compared to standard prefabricated FRC posts.

Analyzing working time and efficient caries removal using a novel bioactive caries detecting dye and air polisher prophy for caries excavation: randomised clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to analyze the working time consumed during caries excavation and pain perception while using a novel Bioactive caries-detecting dye solution (BCD), an Air Polisher Prophy and a combination. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four groups (in each group, n = 20 permanent teeth) were selected from 60 people between 17 and 40 years of age. The study included teeth with occlusal dentinal caries in the molars with cavity entrance sizes of less than 2 mm (clinically and radiographically). Randomization software was used to assign patients to various groups. Group A: Conventional Rotary Drilling, Group B: BCD + Mechanical Excavation (Spoon Excavator), Group C: Air Polisher Prophy, and Group D: BCD + Air Polisher Prophy 0.5 mL BCD was applied with a micro brush to the carious tooth surface for 40 s in groups B and D. After that, radiographs were performed to see if the radiopaque extension was visible. For mechanical caries extraction, a spoon excavator was used for group B, and an air polisher prophy was employed for group D. For mechanical caries extraction, a spoon excavator was utilized for group B. An air polisher prophy was employed for group D. Multiple applications of the BCD were used in the event of residual caries. Working time and pain experienced during caries excavation were registered using the Verbal Pain Scale (VPS) (score 0-4), and caries removal was clinically graded using the modified Scale (score 0-5). RESULTS: The time taken was Group A, Group D, Group B, and Group C, according to statistical analysis using ANOVA and the Post Hoc Test (275.02, 403.8, 461.98, 615.41 s, respectively). Group A had the highest mean VPS (1.85), whereas Group B had the most minor pain (0.6), followed by Group D (1.2) and Group C (0.6). (1.45). Group C (2.35), followed by groups D (1.75), B (1.30), and A (1.30), had ineffective caries eradication (0.90). (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: compared to group C, groups B and D took less time and had less/no pain while excavating caries. Compared to traditional mechanized caries removal methods, the chemo-chemical BCD can diagnose and aid in successful caries removal with minimal pain. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The outcomes of the present study demonstrated that the chemo-chemical bioactive caries detecting dye solution has the potential to identify and help in effective caries removal before mechanized caries removal methods.

Volumetric analysis after caries excavation with caries detecting dyes and chemomechanical caries removal agents using 3D scanner-a randomised clinical trial.

AIM: This research aimed to use an extra-oral 3D scanner for conducting volumetric analysis after caries excavation using caries-detecting dyes and chemomechanical caries removal agents in individuals with occlusal and proximal carious lesions. METHODS: Patients with occlusal (A1, A2, A3) and proximal carious lesions (B1, B2, B3) were treated with the conventional rotary technique, caries detecting dyes (CDD) and chemomechanical caries removal (CMCR) method on 90 teeth (n = 45 for each). Group A1, B1: Excavation was performed using diamond points. Group A2, B2: CDD (Sable Seek™ caries indicator, Ultradent) was applied and left for 10 s, and then the cavity was rinsed and dried. For caries removal, diamond points or excavators were used. Group A3 and B3: BRIX3000 papain gel was applied with a micro-brush for 20 s and was activated for 2 min, and then the carious tissue was removed with a sharp spoon excavator. Post-excavation cavity volume analysis was performed using a 3D scanner. The time required and the verbal pain score (VPS) for pain were scored during excavation. Post-restoration evaluation was performed at 1, 3, and 6 months FDI (Federation Dentaire Internationale) criteria. RESULTS: Comparison of age, time and volume with study groups were made using Independent Sample' t' test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for two and more than two groups, respectively. Using Cohen's Kappa Statistics, evaluators 1 and 2 agreed on caries removal status aesthetic, functional and biological properties at different follow-ups. The chi-square test revealed that the rotary groups [A1(2.5 ± 0.4 min) B1(4.0 ± 0.4 min)] had significantly less (p = 0.000) mean procedural time than CDD [A2(4.5 ± 0.4 min) B2(5.7 ± 0.4 min)] and CMCR [A3(5.4 ± 0.7 min) B3(6.2 ± 0.6 min)] groups. The CMCR group showed better patient acceptance and less pain during caries excavation than the rotary and CDD groups. CMCR group showed significantly less mean caries excavated volume(p = 0.000). Evaluation of restoration after 1-, 3-, and 6-month intervals was acceptable for all the groups. CONCLUSION: Brix3000 helps effectively remove denatured teeth with less pain or sensitivity. The time required for caries removal was lowest in the rotary method and highest in the brix3000 group, while the volume of caries removed was the lowest for brix3000 and highest for the rotary group.

Evaluation and comparison of antibacterial efficacy of different concentrations of Chhattisgarh herbal product-Terminalia chebula fruit extract in opposition to Enterococcus faecalis: An in vitro study.

Due to the low cost, natural origin, higher safety margins, and little to negligible adverse effects of herbal medications, the use of plants and plant derivatives in medicine is becoming increasingly widespread. Terminalia chebula is among the most significant medicinal plants in ayurvedic, siddha, unani, and homeopathic remedies. It is ranked first in Ayurvedic material medicine. T. chebula has been shown to have established effects against various bacterial and fungal infections, including dental caries pathogens. In recent years, there has been a rise in interest in dentistry and medicine related to Enterococcus faecalis. The research aimed to assess the antibacterial effectiveness of different concentrations of T. chebula ethanolic fruit extract (10%, 40%, and 100%) in opposition to E. faecalis and compare it with 2% chlorhexidine. For the study, T. chebula ethanolic fruit extracts were obtained and prepared with Group I: -10% concentration, Group II: -40% concentration, Group III: -100% concentration, and Group IV: -2% chlorhexidine. Colonies of E. faecalis were cultivated in brain heart infusion (BHI) broth at 37°C and were inoculated in 16 BHI agar plates. Then, on the petri dishes, four wells were created (8 mm diameter) using a metal borer. The Agar well diffusion method was used to examine the antibacterial activity, and the zones of inhibition around the wells were noted. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and post-hoc tests. The result shows that as the concentration increases, there is an increase in the efficacy of the antibacterial property of the extract before it reaches the saturation point. The decreasing order of antibacterial was chlorhexidine >100% T. chebula >40% T. chebula >10% T. chebula. The production of contemporary pharmaceuticals from T. chebula was addressed, as the global scenario is currently evolving toward using nontoxic plant products with traditional medicinal benefits.

Micro computed tomography (Micro-CT) characterization of root and root canal morphology of mandibular first premolars: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Mandibular first premolars are familiar with their varied root canal morphology, causing difficulties and challenges for successful endodontic procedures. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to study the characterization of root and canal morphology of the first mandibular premolar using micro-computed tomography. METHODOLOGY: The literature search was conducted using electronic web databases like PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect and Cochrane with the chosen MeSH key words and data was retrieved until May 2023. Further to perform the statistical analysis, R v 4.3.1 software with "meta", 'metafor" "metaviz" " ggplot2" package was used, and results were represented by odds ratios (OR) and the percentage of forest plots along a 95 per cent confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: The total number of studies meeting the inclusion criteria was 13; these studies were conducted on mandibular first premolar using Micro-CT; the total sample size was 1817. To scan the sample, an X-ray micro-focus CT system (Siemens Inveon CT, Erlangen, Germany) was used in four studies and seven different machines were used in the respective studies. Mimics 10.01 software (Materialize, Leuven, Belgium) and NRecon v.1.6.9 software (Bruker, Kontich, Belgium) were commonly operated. The minimum and maximum voxel size ranges between 11.94 and 50 µm. Vertucci's classification was frequently used (9), while one study applied Ahmed et al. and Vertucci's classification. CONCLUSION: This systematic review provides essential information about the root and canal configurations, radicular grooves, accessory canals, and apical foramina through Micro-CT, aiming to improve the accuracy of endodontic treatment and help practitioners.

Distolingual root prevalence in mandibular first molar and complex root canal morphology in incisors: a CBCT analysis in Indian population.

Cone-beam computed tomography was used to understand the possible correlation between the prevalence of distolingual root (DLR) in permanent mandibular first molars (MFMs) and the associated complicated mandibular incisor's root canal morphology (MIs) in an Indian population. A total of 400 scans were evaluated for MFMs and MIs. The prevalence of DLRs and root canal anatomy of MIs were assessed based on Vertucci's classification, and then the sample were grouped according to age, sex and side. Statistical analysis was used to evaluate the possible correlation between the presence of DLRs in the first molar and root canal morphology of incisors. Chi square test was used to evaluate the correlation between the root canal configurations of MIs with the existence of DLRs in MFMs. There was no statistically significant difference between sexes or ages for the prevalence of DLRs in the first molars (p > 0.05), which was 6.62%, with the right side having a greater frequency of DLRs (7.8%) than the left (5.5%). Vertucci Type I canal configuration was most common for the mandibular central (66.75%) and lateral incisors (58.62%). Vertucci Type III was the most common complicated canal morphology, followed by Types V, II, and IV for MIs, with no statistically significant difference in the studied sample's age and sex. (p < 0.05). No association was observed between the presence of DLRs in first molars and complicated root canal configurations in MIs. Taken together, the possibility of complicated root canal configuration in MIs was lesser in the presence of DLRs in MFMs among the Indian population.

The effectiveness of single antibiotic paste nitrofurantoin V/S double antibiotic paste in alleviation of post-operative pain of patients suffering from symptomatic irreversible pulpitis-A randomized controlled trial.

Objective: The present research evaluated and compared effectiveness between nitrofurantoin and double antibiotic paste in alleviating post-operative pain in patients suffering from symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. Methods: There were 60 subjects enrolled who were allotted among three groups: Group 1 - Nitrofurantoin, Group 2 - double antibiotic paste, and Group 3 - Control. Succeeding access opening and chemo mechanical preparation, intracanal medicament was placed in the root canals. Using a numerical pain scale, pain scores were measured at the following time intervals: preoperative, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h. One-way ANOVA and post hoc statistical analysis were conducted, with a p-value of ⩽ considered as statistically significant. Results: Preoperatively, most patients experienced moderate to severe pain. The patients in groups 1 and 2 reported considerable reduction in their pain scores (p ⩽ 0.001) on each time interval. However, patients in group 3 experienced a higher level of pain even at 72 h. No considerable distinction was found among participant's pain scores of groups 1 and 2 (p = 0.193). Conclusion: For effective pain-relieving, both nitrofurantoin and double antibiotic paste can be successfully used in patients suffering from symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. However, when calcium hydroxide was used, patients experience high levels of pain.

Evaluation of push-out bond strength, dentinal tubule penetration and adhesive pattern of bio-ceramic and epoxy resin-based root canal sealers.

INTRODUCTION: Root canal sealing materials play a crucial role in an endodontic procedure by forming a bond between the dentinal walls and the gutta-percha. The current study aims to analyse the dentinal tubule penetration and adhesive pattern, including the push-out bond strength of six commercially available root canal sealers. METHODOLOGY: Eighty-four mandibular first premolars were split into seven groups (and n = 12), Group 1: Dia-Root, Group 2: One-Fil, Group 3: BioRoot RCS, Group 4: AH Plus, Group 5: CeraSeal, Group 6: iRoot SP, Group 7: GP without sealer (control). Two groups were made, one for dentinal tubule penetration and the other for push-out bond strength; the total sample size was one hundred sixty-eight. Root canal treatment was performed using a method called the crown down technique, and for obturation, the single cone technique was used. A confocal laser scanning microscope (Leica, Microsystem Heidel GmbH, Version 2.00 build 0585, Germany) was used to evaluate dentinal tubule penetration, and Universal Testing Machine was utilised to measure the push-out bond strength (Shimadzu, Japan) using a plunger size of 0.4 mm and speed of 1mm/min. Finally, the adhesive pattern of the sealers was analysed by HIROX digital microscope (KH-7700). Statistical analysis was carried out by a one-way Anova test, Dunnet's T3 test, and Chi-square test. RESULTS: Highest dentinal tubule penetration was noticed with One-Fil (p<0.05), followed by iRoot SP, CeraSeal, AH Plus, Dia-Root also, the most negligible value was recorded for BioRoot RCS. Meanwhile, BioRoot RCS (p<0.05) demonstrated the greater value of mean push-out bond strength, followed by One-fil, iRoot SP, CeraSeal, AH Plus and Dia-Root. Regarding adhesive pattern, most of the samples were classified as type 3 and type 4 which implies greater sealing ability and better adherence to the dentinal wall. However, BioRoot RCS revealed the most type 4 (p<0.05), followed by AH Plus, One-Fil, CeraSeal and Dia-Root. CONCLUSION: The highest dentinal tubule penetration was shown by One-Fil compared to other groups. Meanwhile, BioRoot RCS had greater push-out bond strength and more adhesive pattern than other tested materials.

Correction: Evaluation of push-out bond strength, dentinal tubule penetration and adhesive pattern of bio-ceramic and epoxy resin-based root canal sealers.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294076.].

Bibliometric Analysis of Context, Trends, and Contents of Digital Health Technology Used in Dental Health.

Digital tools and apps are revolutionizing healthcare and provide creative answers to urgent problems. Through teamwork and the incorporation of digital technologies, dentistry has experienced a remarkable revolution. A large body of scholarly research backs up this trend. The context, trends, and content of digital health technology in oral and dental health are examined in our bibliometric analysis. Using targeted keywords and synonyms, an organized searching technique was used in the Scopus database, yielding 1942 articles that were extracted into a CSV file. To acquire insights into the content, trends, and context, visualization using VOSviewer 1.6.18 and a variety of analyses-including coauthorship, citation, cooccurrence of author keywords, bibliographic coupling, and cocitation-were executed. The analysis revealed that the USA and the UK contributed to a significant quantity of the literature, with newer contributions coming from nations like India. Cone Beam Computed Tomography, Dental Caries, and Artificial Intelligence were prominent keywords. It is important to note that BMC Oral Health was associated with a sizable number of the papers. This bibliometric analysis provides insightful information about the context, content, and trends of digital health in the field of oral and dental health. By implementing the right technology, policymakers can use this information to increase oral health, encourage dental literacy, and improve access to dental treatment. It is vital to take into account the wide variety of technologies and their classifications based on dental services and contextual variables.

Bibliometric analysis: Root and root canal morphology using cone-beam computed tomography.

OBJECTIVES: This bibliometric analysis aimed to evaluate the leading nations, authors, journals, institutes, highly cited publications, and most commonly used keywords concerning scientific publications based on root and root canal morphology using the CBCT. MATERIAL AND METHODS: For this bibliometric analysis, an extensive search was carried out on September 25, 2023 using the Scopus database. Pertinent articles in the field were scrutinized after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were evaluated using Vosviewer and Microsoft Excel. RESULTS: A literature search revealed the initiation of scientific publication in 2008. Significant contributions made by Saudi Arabia, India, and China concerning the number of publications were seen. Similarly, Jazan University from SA was recognized as the leading institute. The Journal of Endodontics was the leading journal, while authors JNR Martins and G Gambarini produced the highest number of papers. CONCLUSIONS: This bibliometric analysis demonstrated that scientific publications have increased tremendously since 2008. Significant contributions have been made by developing and developed nations. The Journal of Endodontics and Jazan University have been identified as the leading journal and institute.

The antioxidant activity, preliminary phytochemical screening of Zingiber zerumbet and antimicrobial efficacy against selective endodontic bacteria.

Antibiotic resistance is rising across the world. For a very long time, bitter ginger (Zingiber zerumbet) has been used as one of the most popular herbal remedies to treat a wide range of common diseases. Ginger has been shown to have antioxidant and antibacterial activity. It has various bioactive chemicals that might be utilized as an alternative treatment option for many infectious diseases. The present study aimed to examine the biochemical profile of ginger, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity against selective endodontic microbes. Antioxidant was measured using DPPH and antibacterial activity was performed using disk diffusion tests. Streptococcus mutants, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus spp., and Lactobacillus spp. were tested for antibacterial activity. Before evaluating the dried extracts, all solvents were eliminated using rotary evaporation. The obtained IC50 value revealed that ethanol extract had the greatest antioxidant activity. Concerning each bacterium, the plant extracts demonstrated considerable antibacterial activity (p = .001). Ethanol extracts showed the strongest antibacterial activity against the studied microorganisms. This study highlights that the Zingiber zerumbet (Z. zerumbet) is a strong antibacterial herb against multidrug-resistant (MDR) gram-positive bacteria. It may also be employed as a possible natural antioxidant source.

Current Trends in Fixed Prosthodontics Education in Undergraduate Dental Colleges.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to explore current trends in undergraduate fixed prosthodontics teaching at undergraduate dental level education. METHODS: This cross-sectional descriptive study included close-ended questions to inquire about the teaching practices of fixed prosthodontics at Bachelor of Dental Surgery level education. Electronic copies of the survey forms were sent to the heads or directors of department of prosthodontics responsible for undergraduate dental students teaching and learning in various institutes of Sindh by the help of Google forms in December 2020. The form included questions on sociodemographic details and questions inquiring the theoretical and clinical teaching practices in undergraduate fixed prosthodontics course. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS 25. Frequency distribution and percentages of categorical variables were recorded. RESULTS: Out of total 18 dental institutes of Sindh, 15 returned the completely filled form, giving a response rate of 83.3%. Seven (46.7%) schools teach various fixed prosthesis in the preclinical years to their students. All 15 colleges carry out didactic teaching and provide exposure by live clinical demonstrations for various fixed prosthesis. Faculty of 12 (80%) dental colleges where fixed prostheses are being constructed in the dental outpatient department mentioned that their students observe or assist the clinical procedures during their clinical rotation; but none of the students fabricate any type of fixed prosthesis in the clinical setting during their undergraduate years. CONCLUSION: Didactic teaching and live clinical demonstrations of fixed prosthodontics is being carried out in all dental colleges of Sindh. Almost half of the dental schools teach crown preparation on phantom teeth during their preclinical course. Contrary to this, none of the students fabricate any type of fixed prosthesis in the clinical setting during their undergraduate years. As these procedures are not included in the current undergraduate curriculum, recommendations should be forwarded to governing educational body of the country to include cases of fixed prosthesis in their skill set prior to their graduation.