Comparing the Effectiveness of Octenidine Hydrochloride and Chlorhexidine Gluconate Mouthrinses in Reducing Plaque and Oxidative Stress in Institutionalized Children with Down Syndrome.

Background and objectives: Due to decreased manual dexterity, a lack of motivation, and difficulty on the part of the caregiver conducting efficient oral hygiene measures at home, patients with Down syndrome (DS) are badly affected. The objective of this study is to compare the efficacy of 0.1% octenidine (OCT) hydrochloride and 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX) gluconate on plaque control and oxidative stress in institutionalized children with DS. Materials and methods: In 20 children, salivary samples were collected for analysis of the inflammatory marker high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and oxidative stress markers, specifically malondialdehyde (MDA). Plaque index (PlI) and gingival index (GI) were scored. After oral prophylaxis, the participants were randomly assigned to two groups, each consisting of 10 individuals (octenidol and CHX). Salivary oxidative stress marker assays were carried out using a modified version of Yagi's (1984) method, and absorbance was measured at 540 nm using an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer at 535 nm. hsCRP assays were conducted via latex turbidimetric immunoassay. Results: On comparison between the two groups, the OCT group showed a statistically significant reduction in GI, PlI, and MDA values (p < 0.05). Conclusion: It was seen that the use of 0.1% OCT hydrochloride could facilitate the maintenance of good oral hygiene and periodontal status, especially in patients with motor difficulties. Clinical trial registration: PMS/IEC/2016/02. How to cite this article: Raj AS, George S, S A, et al. Comparing the Effectiveness of Octenidine Hydrochloride and Chlorhexidine Gluconate Mouthrinses in Reducing Plaque and Oxidative Stress in Institutionalized Children with Down Syndrome. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(4):437-441.

Effectiveness of Two Types of Distraction Techniques in the Management of Pain and Anxiety during Dental Treatment in 6-9-year-old Children.

Aim: To determine the effectiveness of distraction with virtual reality (VR) distraction devices in comparison with mobile phone video games in the management of pain and anxiety during dental treatment in 6-9-year-old children. Materials and methods: It was a comparative observational study. A total of 33 children aged 6-9 years who reported to the department for their first dental visit were selected and the subjects were divided into three groups. Group I patients were in a normal clinical environment without any distractions. Group II patients were given mobile phone video games. Group III patients were given a VR distraction device as a means of distraction.The anxiety levels of patients before treatment, after using a distraction device preoperatively, during local anesthesia injection, and after dental treatment were assessed. Pain after local anesthesia injection in each group was assessed. The easability of handling the patient and carrying out the procedure was assessed using a questionnaire. All data were collected and analyzed. Results: The results showed when compared to the children in groups I and II, children in group III obtained significantly lower anxiety scores after treatment, and they also reported significantly decreased pain perception during dental treatment (p < 0.001). The pain while administering local anesthesia was greater for the control group and lowest for the VR group. It was observed that VR group patients were easier to handle and easier to carry out procedures than those in the mobile phone group. Conclusion: Virtual reality distraction is an effective distraction technique for reducing pain and anxiety in children during various treatment procedures. Clinical significance: Virtual reality distraction can be used effectively in clinics.It is a patient-friendly technique and is more comfortable for both patients and dentists during treatment.It does not require any previous education and training and has a positive impact on memories of the treatment, leading to behavior modification. How to cite this article: Chandran LS, Issac JS, Girija P, et al. Effectiveness of Two Types of Distraction Techniques in the Management of Pain and Anxiety during Dental Treatment in 6-9-year-old Children. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(3):291-296.

An in vitro comparison of calcium ions release and diffusion ability of calcium hydroxide-based intracanal medicament in combination with three different vehicles like propolis, chitosan, and propylene glycol.

Context: Calcium hydroxide, which is an intracanal medicament, is widely used in endodontics. Improvements can be made to its effectiveness, as calcium hydroxide is dependent on the vehicle. Aim: The study aims to compare and evaluate the release and diffusion ability of calcium hydroxide when mixed with - propolis, chitosan, and propylene glycol. Methods: For this study, 33 single-rooted extracted premolar teeth have been decoronated. After the working length and enlargement of the canals had been established, different preparations of calcium hydroxide with vehicles such as propolis, chitosan, and propylene glycol were loaded into the canals. Atomic absorption spectrophotometry was used to analyze the release of calcium ions in three groups, while a digital pH meter was used to determine an acid change. Results: Atomic absorption spectrophotometry showed sustained releases of calcium ions and the digital pH meter showed increased diffusion capacity in the propylene glycol paste group in comparison to the other two groups. Conclusion: Propylene glycol vehicle made it easier to enter calcium hydroxide into the dentinal tubules.