Full Pulpotomy as a Treatment for Irreversible Pulpitis in Permanent Teeth: A Systematic Review of the Literature Based on Case Reports.

The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the current evidence of case reports where the treatment for permanent teeth with a diagnosis of irreversible pulpitis was a full pulpotomy. This study was carried out by two reviewers following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A systematic electronic search was carried out in the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases until the year 2022 to find articles in English where the treatment for irreversible pulpitis in permanent teeth was a full pulpotomy. Literature reviews, in vitro or animal studies, abstracts, and unpublished data were excluded. The intervention, control, and outcome parameters were selected following the "Population, Interventions, Control, and Outcome" (PICO) guidelines. A total of 636 articles were found, and 14 articles were selected to be included in this review. The selected articles describe cases of full pulpotomies in mature permanent teeth with a diagnosis of irreversible pulpitis with a total of 34 (100%) successful cases, where 18 were men and 16 were women, with an average age of 19.20 ± 10.59 years and an average follow-up of 35.82 ± 26.39 months, with 12 months being the minimum follow-up time. The material used most frequently for obturation of the full pulpotomy was mineral trioxide aggregate in 16 cases (47.06%). Within the limitations of this review, full pulpotomy presents a high success rate regardless of the tooth, age, or sex as a treatment for teeth diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis.

Experience, Prevalence, and Severity of Dental Caries in Mexican Preschool and School-Aged Children.

Objective Dental caries in Mexico continues to be a public health problem, indicated by it is high prevalence and incidence in children. This disease is associated with pain in preschool and school children, with large-scale consequences for the individual, society, and health systems. The objective of the present study was to determine the experience (mean of caries indices), prevalence, and severity of caries in children 2-12 years of age who sought dental care at a dental school in Mexico. Material and methods A cross-sectional study was carried out on 826 clinical records of patients ages 2-12 years. The dependent variable was caries, in terms of experience (mean primary teeth (dmft) and permanent teeth (DMFT) indices), prevalence (dmft and DMFT greater than 0), and severity (cutoffs of caries indices at various levels). The independent variables were age and sex. The data were analyzed in Stata 14 (StataCorp LLC, College Station, Texas). Results The average age was 7.2±2.3; 52.4% were boys. In the primary dentition, the caries experience (mean dmft) was 3.01±3.30, the prevalence of caries was 65.8%, and the severity dmft>3=37.3% and dmft>6=15.6%. In the permanent dentition, the caries experience (mean DMFT) was 0.99±1.88, the prevalence of caries was 31.5%, and the severity DMFT>3=12.5% ​​and DMFT>6=1.6%. The percentage of caries-free children in both dentitions was 26.1% (n=216/826). The experience, prevalence, and severity of caries were statistically different by age (p<0.001). Only in the severity of dmft>3 were differences observed across sex (p<0.05). Among children with mixed dentition, primary teeth were more affected than permanent teeth (2.46±2.87 vs 0.88±1.61; p<0.0001). Conclusions About seven out of 10 children were affected by cavities in either or both dentitions. It was observed that age was positively associated with dental caries, equally affecting girls and boys. In this sample, the primary dentition was impacted more than the permanent dentition. Despite being preventable, dental caries continues to be a health problem in children.

Psychometric Properties of the Iowa Fluoride Study Oral Health Questionnaire in Mexican Adolescents.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The perception of quality of life about health status is subjective; assessment of the impact includes well-being while eating, speaking, smiling, interacting with others, and feeling good about the esthetic appearance of teeth and mouth. The objective of the present study was to cross-culturally adapt and determine the validity and reliability of the Mexican version of the Iowa Fluoride Study Oral Health for adolescents. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out in a sample of 240 Mexican adolescents aged 15 to 19 years. The questionnaire was translated, back-translated, and administered through the Google Forms platform. The cultural adaptation consisted of the evaluation of the grammatical, conceptual, and linguistic equivalences. The evaluation of the utility and acceptability was carried out through an analysis of semantic equivalence. The utility of the questionnaire was also evaluated by analyzing its grammatical readability. Reliability tests, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO), factor analysis, and Pearson's correlation were performed. RESULTS: The mean age of all participants was 16.4±1.4; 65.3% (n=158) were female. Face validity was considered adequate. The wording of the objective and instructions of the questionnaire were improved. The confidentiality assurances were highlighted. The questions were clear, understandable, and pertinent, and they showed adequate syntax. The INFLESZ index corresponds to a "fairly easy" level of readability. In the quantitative validation, the correlation of items was greater than 0.4. The KMO was 0.930 (p=0.001), and Bartlett sphericity was 2466.5 (p=0.001). Through the exploratory factorial analysis, we evaluated the emotional well-being (12 items), social welfare (five items), and oral symptoms (OS) (three items) dimensions. Internal consistency was high (Cronbach's α=0.942). CONCLUSION: The culturally translated and adapted questionnaire is valid and reliable for use in research on Mexican adolescents.

Remineralizing Effect of Xilitol, Juniperus Communis and Camellia Sinensis Added to a Toothpaste: An In Vitro Study / Efecto remineralizante del Xilitol, Juniperus Communis y Camellia Sinensis adicionados en pastas dentales: Estudio in vitro

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to explore the remineralizing effect of toothpastes based on Xilitol, Camellia Sinensis and Juniperus Communis. An in vitro experimental study was carried out in an 18 human premolars sample, which were treated with one of the 3 evaluated toothpastes and a control fluoride one. The atomic percentages of Ca and P were evaluated by Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). In addition, the enamel surface of treated teeth was visualized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The evaluations were carried out in three stages: pre-treatment, after an artificial demineralization process and after the treatment with the toothpastes. In the statistical analysis, the one-way ANOVA and Pearson correlation tests were used. Xilitol and Juniperus Communis showed the greatest gain of P ions compared to the control group (p<0.01). As for Ca, the group treated with xylitol-based toothpaste showed more ion gain compared with the control group (p<0.01). In the Pearson correlation test between Ca and P, statistically significant correlations were observed in all groups (p<0.01), ranging between r=0.7413 (Xylitol Group) and r=0.9510 (Control Group). We concluded that Xylitol paste showed the highest remineralizing property, both in the EDS analysis and in the SEM images.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este studio fue explorer el efecto remineralizante de las cremas dentales compuestas de Xilitol, Camelia Sinensis y Juniperus Communis. Se llevó a cabo un estudio experimental in vitro en una muestra de 18 premolares humanos, los cuales fueron tratados con una de las tres pastas dentales evaluadas y una fluorada. Los porcentajes atomicos de Ca y P fueron evaluados por Espectroscopia de rayos X de energía dispersive (EDS). Además, la superficie del esmalte de los dientes tratados fue examinada por Microscopia Electronica de Barrido (SEM). Las evaluaciones fueron llevadas a cabo en tres etapas: pre-tratamiento, despues de un proceso artificial de desmineralizacion y después del tratamiento con las pastas dentales. Se usaron ANOVA de una via y correlacion de Pearson para el analisis estadistico. Xilitol y Juniperus Communis mostraron la mayor ganancia de iones P comparados con el grupo control (p<0.01), con rangos entre r=0.7413 (Grupo con Xylitol) and r=0.9510 (Group Control). Se concluyó que la pasta con Xilitol mostró las mayores propiedades remineralizantes, tanto en el analisis EDS y las imágenes SEM.

Ecological study on needs and cost of treatment for dental caries in schoolchildren aged 6, 12, and 15 years: Data from a national survey in Mexico.

To determine the treatment needs and the care index for dental caries in the primary dentition and permanent dentition of schoolchildren and to quantify the cost of care that would represent the treatment of dental caries in Mexico.A secondary analysis of data from the First National Caries Survey was conducted, which was a cross-sectional study conducted in the 32 states of Mexico. Based on dmft (average number of decayed, extracted, and filled teeth in the primary dentition) and DMFT (average number of decayed, extracted, and filled teeth in permanent dentition) information, a treatment needs index (TNI) and a caries care index (CI) were calculated.At age 6, the TNI for the primary dentition ranged from 81.7% to 99.5% and the CI ranged from 0.5% to 17.6%. In the permanent dentition, the TNI ranged from 58.8% to 100%, and the CI ranged from 0.0% to 41.2%. At age 12, the TNI ranged from 55.4% to 93.4%, and the CI ranged from 6.5% to 43.4%. At age 15, the TNI ranged from 50.4% to 98.4%, and the CI ranged from 1.4% to 48.3%. The total cost of treatment at 6 years of age was estimated to range from a purchasing power parity (PPP) of USD $49.1 to 287.7 million in the primary dentition, and from a PPP of USD $3.7 to 24 million in the permanent dentition. For the treatment of the permanent dentition of 12-year-olds, the PPP ranged from USD $13.3 to 85.4 million. The estimated cost of treatment of the permanent dentition of the 15-year-olds ranged from a PPP of USD $10.9 to 70.3 million. The total estimated cost of caries treatment ranged from a PPP of USD $77.1 to 499.6 million, depending on the type of treatment and provider (public or private).High percentages of TNI for dental caries and low CI values were observed. The estimated costs associated with the treatment for caries have an impact because they represent a considerable percentage of the total health expenditure in Mexico.

Identification of the Most Appropriate Site for the Cold Test in Molar Teeth / Identificación del sitio más apropiado para la prueba de frío en dientes molares

Abstract A test frequently used to complement endodontic diagnoses is the cold test; however, in the last 20 years, authors have reported incorrect results within pulp sensitivity tests. Specifically, a high frequency of false results in posterior teeth, were found. The aim of this study was to identify the most appropriate site for the cold test in molar teeth with a need for endodontic treatment, calculating predictive values, accuracy and reproducibility. A cross-sectional study was performed, evaluating 390 subjects. A total of 152 subjects of both genders from the ages of 15-65 years old participated. The ideal standard was established by direct pulp inspection, and the cold test agent used was 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane. The patients were divided into four groups in relation to the molar tooth: (1) mandibular first molar, (2) mandibular second molar, (3) maxillary first molar, and (4) maxillary second molar. 169 teeth and 676 sites were studied. (a) The most appropriate sites for cold test were the middle third of the buccal surface and cervical third of the buccal surface in the mandibular molars with the following results: Middle third of the first molar: Accuracy 0.93, positive predictive value 0.90 and negative predictive value 0.96. Middle third of the second molar: Accuracy 0.93, positive predictive value 1.00 and negative predictive value 0.90. In relation to third cervical the results were: First molar: Accuracy 0.93, positive predictive value 0.89 and negative predictive value 0.97 y second molar: Accuracy 0.93, positive predictive value 1.00 and negative predictive value 0.90. (b) The highest reproducibility was observed in the middle third of the buccal surface with cervical third of the buccal surface in the mandibular second molar (1.00). The most appropriate site and reproducibility of the sites are auxiliary to complement endodontic diagnose with the cold test.

Resumen Una prueba frecuentemente utilizada para complementar los diagnósticos endodónticos es la prueba de frío. Sin embargo, en los últimos 20 años, los autores han reportado resultados incorrectos con las pruebas de sensibilidad pulpar. Específicamente, se ha observado una alta frecuencia de resultados falsos en dientes posteriores. El objetivo del estudio fue identificar el sitio más adecuado para la prueba de frío en dientes molares con necesidad de tratamiento endodóntico, calculando valores predictivos, exactitud y reproducibilidad. Se realizó un estudio transversal donde se evaluaron a 390 sujetos. 152 sujetos de ambos sexos de 15 a 65 años cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. El estándar ideal que se utilizó en el estudio fue la inspección directa de pulpa en la cámara pulpar y la prueba de frío utilizada fue el 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroetano. Los pacientes fueron divididos en cuatro grupos en relación al diente molar: (1) primer molar mandibular, (2) segundo molar mandibular, (3) primer molar maxilar, y (4) segundo molar maxilar. En el estudio se evaluaron 169 dientes con 676 sitios. (a) Los sitios más adecuados para la prueba de frío fueron el tercio medio y el tercio cervical de la superficie bucal en los molares mandibulares con los siguientes resultados: Tercio medio del primer molar: Exactitud 0.93, valor predictivo positivo 0.90 y valor predictivo negativo 0.96. Tercio medio del segundo molar: Exactitud 0.93, valor predictivo positivo 1.00 y valor predictivo negativo 0.90. En relación al tercio cervical los resultados fueron: Primer molar: Exactitud 0.93, valor predictivo positivo 0.89 y valor predictivo negativo 0,97 y segundo molar: Exactitud 0.93, valor predictivo positivo 1.00 y valor predictivo negativo 0.90. (b) La más alta reproducibilidad (1.00) se observó entre el tercio medio con el tercio cervical de la superficie bucal en el segundo molar inferior. El sitio más apropiado y la reproducibilidad de los sitios son auxiliares para complementar el diagnóstico endodóntico con la prueba de frío.

Determination and identification of antibiotic-resistant oral streptococci isolated from active dental infections in adults.

OBJECTIVE: To determine and identify antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) of oral streptococci from active dental infections in adults and its association with age and gender. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 59 subjects from 18 to 62 years old. Ninety-eighth samples obtained from the subjects were cultivated in agar plates containing antibiotics amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (A-CA), clindamycin, and moxifloxacin (concentrations of 16, 32 or 64 µg/ml). PCR assay was performed to identify bacterial species. RESULTS: The bacterial species that showed more antibiotic-resistance (AR) was S. mutans (45.9%), followed by S. gordonii (21.6%), S. oralis (17.6%), S. sanguinis (9.5%), S. salivarius (5.4%) and S. sobrinus (0%). Moreover, clindamycin (59.4%) showed the highest frequency of AR. Moxifloxacin and A-CA showed an susceptibility >99.1%, while clindamycin showed the lowest efficacy (93.3%); there was a significant statistically difference (p < .01). The age group between 26 and 50 years old (32.2%) and females (28.8%) showed more multiresistance. Clindamycin showed a statistical difference (p < .05) when comparing groups by gender. CONCLUSIONS: Clindamycin was the antibiotic with the highest frequency of ARB and lower bactericidal effect. Moxifloxacin and A-CA showed the highest efficacy and the lowest ARB frequency. Streptococcus mutans was the bacterial specie that showed an increased frequency of AR.

Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles on Orthodontic Elastomeric Modules: Evaluation of Mechanical and Antibacterial Properties.

In the present study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized in situ on orthodontic elastomeric modules (OEM) using silver nitrate salts as metal-ion precursors and extract of the plant Hetheroteca inuloides (H. inuloides) as bioreductant via a simple and eco-friendly method. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy; scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The surface plasmon resonance peak found at 472 nm confirmed the formation of AgNPs. SEM and TEM images reveal that the particles are quasi-spherical. The EDS analysis of the AgNPs confirmed the presence of elemental silver. The antibacterial properties of OEM with AgNPs were evaluated against the clinical isolates Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus casei, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli using agar diffusion tests. The physical properties were evaluated by a universal testing machine. OEM with AgNPs had shown inhibition halos for all microorganisms in comparison with OEM control. Physical properties increased with respect to the control group. The results suggest the potential of the material to combat dental biofilm and in turn decrease the incidence of demineralization in dental enamel, ensuring their performance in patients with orthodontic treatment.

Edentulismo en adultos de Pachuca, México: aspectos sociodemográficos y socioeconómicos / Edentulism in Mexican adults: sociodemographic and socioeconomic aspects

Introducción La pérdida de dientes se ha convertido en un problema de salud pública bucal. Objetivo Determinar la prevalencia y distribución del edentulismo, así como las variables sociodemográficas y socioeconómicas asociadas en individuos de 35 años y más. Materiales y métodos Se realizó un estudio transversal en 656 sujetos seleccionados de forma aleatoria. En el estudio se incluyeron hombres y mujeres de 35 años y más, asistentes a las clínicas de atención dental de la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo (UAEH), una universidad pública de México. Para la realización de este estudio los examinadores fueron capacitados en la cumplimentación de los cuestionarios y estandarizados en el criterio diagnóstico de la pérdida de dientes. La variable dependiente fue el edentulismo. Los datos fueron analizados en Stata 11. Resultados El promedio de edad fue de 49,06 ± 10,33. Los individuos fueron principalmente mujeres (63,3%). La prevalencia general de edentulismo fue de 15,7% (IC 95%: 12,9-18,5); entre las mujeres fue de 17,6% y en los hombres de 12,5% (p = 0,081). La prevalencia de edentulismo fue mayor entre los sujetos de más edad (p < 0,001). Se observó que a mayor escolaridad (p < 0,001), a mejor nivel socioeconómico (p < 0,001) y en quienes tuvieron automóvil en el hogar (p < 0,05), la prevalencia de edentulismo fue menor. Conclusiones La prevalencia de edentulismo en adultos mayores de 35 años que acuden a las clínicas de esta universidad fue del 15,7%. Se observó diferencia de la prevalencia de edentulismo por edad, pero no por sexo. Se observaron diferencias socioeconómicas, sugiriendo ciertas desigualdades en salud bucal.

Introduction Tooth loss has become a problem of oral health. Objective To determine the prevalence and distribution of edentulism, as well as the associated sociodemographic and socioeconomic variables in subjects aged 35 and older. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 656 randomly selected subjects. The study included men and women aged 35 years and older attending dental care clinics at a public university in Mexico. Examiners were trained in filling out questionnaires and receiving training in order to standardise the criteria of tooth loss. The dependent variable was the presence of edentulism. The data were analysed using Stata 11. Results The mean age of the population was 49.06 ± 10.33 years, and the majority (63.3%) were women. The overall prevalence of edentulism was 15.7% (95% CI: 12.9-18.5%); the prevalence among women was 17.6% and the prevalence among men was 12.5% (P = .081). The prevalence of edentulism was higher among older subjects (P < .001). The prevalence of edentulism was lower among individuals with higher levels of education (P < .001), those with higher socioeconomic status (P < .001), and those who had a car at home (P < 0.05) Conclusions The prevalence of edentulism in adults over 35 years of age attending dental care clinics at this public university was 15.7%. Differences were observed in the prevalence of edentulism by age, but not by gender. Socioeconomic differences were observed, suggesting certain oral health inequalities.

Prevalencia de dentición funcional en ancianos mexicanos / Prevalence of functional teeth in Mexican elderly

Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de dentición funcional (DF) y su distribución a través de diversas variables clínicas, sociodemográficas y socioeconómicas de una muestra de ancianos mexicanos. Material y métodos En un estudio transversal se incluyeron 139 adultos de 60 años y más de 2 asilos y un club de ancianos de la ciudad de Pachuca, Hidalgo, México. La variable dependiente fue la dentición funcional; operacionalmente categorizada como: 0 = sujetos con menos de 21 dientes presentes en la boca y 1 = sujetos con 21 o más dientes en la boca, excluyendo prótesis. Las variables sociodemográficas, socioeconómicas y conductuales se recogieron a través de un cuestionario. Las variables clínicas fueron recabadas por un examinador capacitado y estandarizado. El análisis se realizó utilizando pruebas no paramétricas en Stata. Resultados El promedio de edad fue de 79,06 +/- 9,78. La mayoría de los sujetos incluidos fueron mujeres (69,1 por ciento). La prevalencia de dentición funcional fue de 10,1 por ciento. En el análisis bivariado observamos lo siguiente: los sujetos con DF tuvieron menor edad (p < 0,05); entre las mujeres se observó mayor prevalencia de DF (p < 0,05); las personas con pareja presentaron más alto porcentaje de DF (p < 0,05); la prevalencia de DF fue diferente a través de los tipos de asilamiento (p < 0,05). Conclusiones Los datos sugieren una baja prevalencia de dentición funcional en esta muestra de adultos mayores. Este estudio demuestra que la DF varía en función de variables sociodemográficas.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of functional teeth (FT) and their distribution using clinical, demographic, and socioeconomic variables in a sample of Mexican elderly. Material and methods This cross-sectional study of 139 adults aged 60 years and older was conducted in two nursing homes and one club in Pachuca, Hidalgo, Mexico. The dependent variable was FT, and participants were operationally categorised as 0 (having less than 21 teeth) or 1 (having 21 or more teeth). Those categorised as 1 comprised the FT group. Sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and behavioural variables were collected using a questionnaire. Clinical variables were collected by a trained examiner using a standardised examination. Analysis was performed using non-parametric tests in Stata. Results The mean age was 79.06 +/- 9.78 years. Most (69.1 percent) of the participants were women. The prevalence of FT was 10.1 percent. In the bivariate analysis, it was observed that the FT group was younger (p < .05), women displayed a greater prevalence of FT than men (p < .05), as did those involved in a relationship compared to being single (p < .05), and FT prevalence differed by type of isolation (p < .05). Conclusions The prevalence of FT is low among nursing home residents and club members, and it varies with age, sex, relationship status, and type of isolation.

Biologic monitoring and causes of failure in cycles of sterilization in dental care offices in Mexico.

BACKGROUND: Biologic indicator tests (BIs) are considered the most meaningful way to verify sterilization. OBJECTIVE: To monitor the cycles of sterilization using BIs in dry heat sterilizers and steam autoclaves and to identify the causes of failures in the cycles of sterilization in dental offices in San Luis Potosí, México. METHODS: An invitation to participate was sent to 400 dental offices, and 206 practitioners of 200 dental offices were included. A questionnaire was given to each of the participants, asking for the following information: sterilizer type, operational parameters used (eg, temperature, pressure, and length of exposure), frequency of sterilization cycles per day, use of BIs, and maintenance procedures of the sterilizer. Two hundred thirty sterilizers were monitored using BIs. The sterilizers with positive results were monitored a second and third time to identify the cause of the failure. RESULTS: Twenty-two percent of practitioners (n = 46) used BIs, and 17% (n = 39) of the sterilizers reported positive results (bacterial growth). The detected failures were a mistake in the procedure (eg, temperature, time, or pressure), an absence of supervision of the procedure performed by the assistant, and improper maintenance. CONCLUSIONS: There are opportunities to increase information on infection control, to improve the adoption of standard quality control methods for sterilization as a routine process, to improve training on proper testing, and standardize processes.

Impact of socio-demographic, socioeconomic, and water variables on dental fluorosis in adolescents growing up during the implementation of a fluoridated domestic salt program.

The objective of this study is to determine the impact of socio-demographic, socioeconomic, and other risk indicators on dental fluorosis (DF) among Mexican adolescents. A cross-sectional study was carried out in 1,538 adolescents 12 and 15 years of age in semi-rural communities located at high altitude (>2,000 m) and with high concentration of fluoride in water (1.38-3.07 ppm) in Hidalgo, Mexico. DF was determined by means of Dean's Index and all teeth were examined. Remaining variables were collected using a questionnaire. The adjusted final model was performed using ordered logistic regression. After adjusting for sex, the variables associated with DF were (p < 0.05): being 12 years old (OR = 1.10) versus 15 years old; having lived the first 6 years of life in El Llano (3.07 F ppm) (OR = 3.19) or San Marcos (1.38 F ppm) (OR = 1.63) versus Tula (1.42 F ppm); having public (OR = 1.35) or private health insurance (OR = 1.36) versus those without insurance; belonging to the lower quartiles of socioeconomic position (SEP) [1st quartile (OR = 2.48), 2nd quartile (OR = 1.81), 3rd quartile (OR = 1.49)] versus the highest quartile; having drunk tap water (OR = 1.83) or from a well or spring (OR = 2.30) versus those who drank water purchased in large containers or bottles. Demographic and socioeconomic variables were associated with DF. While better SEP appeared to play an important role in DF, a pattern of water intake associated with water purchased in large containers or bottles (which have different connotations to the use of bottled water in industrialized Western countries) did reduce DF risk in these high fluoride content, high altitude communities.

Predictive values of thermal and electrical dental pulp tests: a clinical study.

INTRODUCTION: For a diagnostic test to be useful, it is necessary to determine the probability that the test will provide the correct diagnosis. Therefore, it is necessary to calculate the predictive value of diagnostics. The aim of the present study was to identify the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, accuracy, and reproducibility of thermal and electrical tests of pulp sensitivity. METHODS: The thermal tests studied were the 1, 1, 1, 2-tetrafluoroethane (cold) and hot gutta-percha (hot) tests. For the electrical test, the Analytic Technology Pulp Tester (Analytic Technology, Redmond, WA) was used. A total of 110 teeth were tested: 60 teeth with vital pulp and 50 teeth with necrotic pulps (disease prevalence of 45%). The ideal standard was established by direct pulp inspection. RESULTS: The sensitivities of the diagnostic tests were 0.88 for the cold test, 0.86 for the heat test, and 0.76 for the electrical test, and the specificity was 1.0 for all 3 tests. The negative predictive value was 0.90 for the cold test, 0.89 for the heat test, and 0.83 for the electrical test, and the positive predictive value was 1.0 for all 3 tests. The highest accuracy (0.94) and reproducibility (0.88) were observed for the cold test. CONCLUSIONS: The cold test was the most accurate method for diagnostic testing.

[Experience of non-reversible and reversible carious lesions in 11 and 12 years old Mexican schoolchildren: a negative binomial regression analysis]. / Lesiones cariosas reversibles e irreversibles en escolares mexicanos de 11 y 12 años de edad: un análisis de regresión binomial negativa.

INTRODUCTION: Dental caries is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases worldwide. In Mexico it is a public health problem. OBJECTIVE: To identify variables associated with caries occurrence (non-reversible and reversible lesions) in a sample of Mexican schoolchildren. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study in 640 schoolchildren of 11 and 12 years of age. The dependent variable was the D 1+2 MFT index, comprising reversible and irreversible carious lesions (dental caries) according to the Pitts D 1 /D 2 classification. Clinical examinations were performed by trained and standardized examiners. Using structured questionnaires we collected socio-demographic, socio-economic and health-related oral behaviors. Negative binomial regression was used for the analysis. RESULTS: The D 1+2 MFT index was 5.68±3.47. The schoolchildren characteristics associated with an increase in the expected average rate of dental caries were: being female (27.1%), having 12 years of age (23.2%), consuming larger amounts of sugar (13.9%), having mediocre (31.3%) and poor/very poor oral hygiene (62.3%). Conversely, when the family owned a car the expected mean D 1+2 MFT decreased 13.5%. CONCLUSIONS: When dental caries occurrence (about 6 decayed teeth) is estimated taking into consideration not only cavities (lesions in need of restorative dental treatment) but also incipient carious lesions, the character of this disease as a common clinical problem and as a public health problem are further emphasized. Results revealed the need to establish preventive and curative strategies in the sample.

Lesiones cariosas reversibles e irreversibles en escolares mexicanos de 11 y 12 años de edad: un análisis de regresión binomial negativa / Experience of non-reversible and reversible carious lesions in 11 and 12 years old Mexican schoolchildren: A negative binomial regression analysis

Introducción. La caries dental es una de las enfermedades crónicas infantiles más frecuentes. En México es un problema de salud pública bucal. Objetivo. Identificar las variables asociadas a la presencia de caries (lesiones reversibles e irreversibles) en una muestra de escolares mexicanos. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio transversal en 640 escolares de 11 y 12 años de edad. La variable dependiente fue el índice C 1+2 POD, contemplando las lesiones cariosas (caries dental) reversibles e irreversibles según la clasificación C 1 /C 2 / de Pitts. Se practicaron exámenes clínicos por examinadores capacitados y estandarizados. Utilizando cuestionarios estructurados, se recogieron variables sociodemográficas, socioeconómicas y sobre conductas relacionadas con la salud bucal. En el análisis se empleó el modelo de regresión binomial negativa. Resultados. El índice C 1+2 POD fue 5,68±3,47. Las características de los escolares que estuvieron asociadas a un incremento en la media esperada del índice de caries dental fueron: ser del sexo femenino (27,1 %), tener 12 años de edad (23,2 %), consumir mayores cantidades de azúcar (13,9 %), tener higiene bucal regular (31,3 %), o tener mala o muy mala higiene bucal (62,3 %). Contrariamente, el que la familia poseyera un automóvil disminuyó 13,5 % la media esperada del C 1+2 POD. Conclusiones. Cuando se toman en consideración las caries que presentan cavidades y aquellas que se encuentran en un estado incipiente de desarrollo, se acentúa aún más el carácter de esta enfermedad (promedio de casi seis dientes con caries) como un problema clínico común y un problema de salud pública bucal. Los resultados revelan la necesidad de establecer estrategias preventivas y curativas en la muestra.

Introduction: Dental caries is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases worldwide. In Mexico it is a public health problem. Objective: To identify variables associated with caries occurrence (non-reversible and reversible lesions) in a sample of Mexican schoolchildren. Material and methods: We performed a cross-sectional study in 640 schoolchildren of 11 and 12 years of age. The dependent variable was the D 1+2 MFT index, comprising reversible and irreversible carious lesions (dental caries) according to the Pitts D 1 /D 2 classification. Clinical examinations were performed by trained and standardized examiners. Using structured questionnaires we collected socio-demographic, socio-economic and health-related oral behaviors. Negative binomial regression was used for the analysis. Results: The D 1+2 MFT index was 5.68±3.47. The schoolchildren characteristics associated with an increase in the expected average rate of dental caries were: being female (27.1%), having 12 years of age (23.2%), consuming larger amounts of sugar (13.9%), having mediocre (31.3%) and poor/very poor oral hygiene (62.3%). Conversely, when the family owned a car the expected mean D 1+2 MFT decreased 13.5%. Conclusions: When dental caries occurrence (about 6 decayed teeth) is estimated taking into consideration not only cavities (lesions in need of restorative dental treatment) but also incipient carious lesions, the character of this disease as a common clinical problem and as a public health problem are further emphasized. Results revealed the need to establish preventive and curative strategies in the sample.

Socioeconomic, sociodemographic, and clinical variables associated with root caries in a group of persons age 60 years and older in Mexico.

AIM: To determine the prevalence of root caries and the root caries index in a population of older Mexicans, and its relationship to socioeconomic, sociodemographic and dental factors. METHODS: We carried out a cross-sectional study in 85 persons 60 years and older living either in long-term care facilities, or independently and attending an elder day-care group. Each subject underwent an oral examination, performed by a trained and standardized dentist, to determine the root caries index and other clinical variables. Questionnaires were administered to collect socioeconomic, sociodemographic and hygiene data. Statistical analyses were performed using non-parametric tests. RESULTS: The prevalence of root caries was 96.5%. The root caries index was 37.7% ± 21.7%. Statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) of root caries index were observed across residential arrangements and marital statuses, and were higher in publicly funded long-term care and among single subjects (P < 0.05). Those who had poor hygiene had more root caries (P < 0.05); persons with a low level of schooling and who brushed their teeth less frequently also showed a difference (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of root caries was very high. The type of long-term care, marital status, schooling and oral hygiene were associated with a higher root caries index. Oral health programs and preventive caries interventions are needed for this age group in general; targeted strategies may be better focused if sociodemographic profiles are used to characterize high need groups.

Factores de riesgo hereditarios y socioeconómicos para labio o paladar hendido no asociados a un síndrome en México: estudio de casos y controles pareado / Family history and socioeconomic risk factors for non-syndromic cleft lip and palate: a matched case-control study in a less developed country

Objetivo. Identificar los factores de riesgo hereditarios y socioeconómicos relacionados con la presencia de labio o paladar hendido no asociados a un síndrome. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio de casos y controles en el que se incluyeron 208 casos con diagnóstico de labio, paladar hendido o ambos no asociados a un síndrome, los cuales fueron pareados por edad y sexo con 416 controles. Se incluyeron todos los pacientes quirúrgicos atendidos durante el periodo 2002-2004 en el programa estatal de labio o paladar hendido de Campeche, México. Se aplicó un cuestionario en el que se recogió información sobre variables sociodemográficas y socioeconómicas, así como sobre antecedentes hereditarios de labio o paladar hendido no asociados a un síndrome en la familia. Debido a que el diseño fue pareado, el análisis se hizo con regresión logística condicionada. Resultados. En el modelo multivariado para labio o paladar hendido no asociado a un síndrome se identificaron de forma significativa (p<0,05) los siguientes factores de riesgo: nivel socioeconómico bajo (razón de momios, RM=2,02), nacimiento en el sur del estado (RM=3,96), nacimiento en casa (RM=2,51) o nacimiento en hospital público (RM=4,08), antecedentes heredofamiliares paternos (RM=5,38), antecedentes heredofamiliares maternos (RM=4,11), tener otro hijo con labio o paladar hendido en la familia (RM=46,02), presentar algún otro defecto congénito asociado (RM=8,20) e infección en el embarazo (RM=2,90), y como factor protector, el cuidado prenatal y el uso de vitaminas (RM=0,29). Conclusiones. El mayor riesgo en nuestra muestra para labio, paladar hendido o ambos, no asociados a un síndrome, radica en las variables relacionadas con los antecedentes familiares y hereditarios, y las indicadoras de la posición socioeconómica. Se observó un efecto protector del manejo prenatal con vitaminas.

Introduction. From an epidemiological point of view, non-syndromic orofacial clefts are the most common oral congenital deformities worldwide.Objective. Family histories were traced and socioeconomic risk factors were identified for non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate. Material and methods. A case-control study was carried out with 208 cases of non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate, and matched by age and sex with 416 controls. Cases were patients attending a referral clinic from 2002 through 2004 in Campeche, Mexico. A questionnaire was administered to collect sociodemographic and socioeconomic variables as well as familial background relevant to non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate. Conditional logistic regression models were used; adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results. In the multivariate model, the following risk factors were identified: 1) low socioeconomic status; 2) birth in the southern region of Campeche state; 3) home delivery or delivery in a publicly funded hospital; 4) occurrence of prior non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate cases in the father’s or mother’s family: 5) having a sibling with non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate; 6) the proband having another malformation, and 7) a history of infections during pregnancy. Prenatal care consisting of vitamin supplementation was a protective factor for non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (odds ratio=0.29). Conclusions. A “social gradient in health” was seen to link oral malformation with diet components, and several socioeconomic and socio-demographic factors broadly encompassed in low socioeconomic status. Further characterization of risk factors will guide the assemblage of a pro-active counseling and prevention program for families at risk for non-syndromic cleft lip and cleft palate.

Family history and socioeconomic risk factors for non-syndromic cleft lip and palate: a matched case-control study in a less developed country.

INTRODUCTION: From an epidemiological point of view, non-syndromic orofacial clefts are the most common oral congenital deformities worldwide. OBJECTIVE: Family histories were traced and socioeconomic risk factors were identified for non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A case-control study was carried out with 208 cases of non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate, and matched by age and sex with 416 controls. Cases were patients attending a referral clinic from 2002 through 2004 in Campeche, Mexico. A questionnaire was administered to collect sociodemographic and socioeconomic variables as well as familial background relevant to non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate. Conditional logistic regression models were used; adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. RESULTS: In the multivariate model, the following risk factors were identified: 1) low socioeconomic status; 2) birth in the southern region of Campeche state; 3) home delivery or delivery in a publicly funded hospital; 4) occurrence of prior non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate cases in the father's or mother's family: 5) having a sibling with non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate; 6) the proband having another malformation, and 7) a history of infections during pregnancy. Prenatal care consisting of vitamin supplementation was a protective factor for non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (odds ratio=0.29). CONCLUSIONS: A "social gradient in health" was seen to link oral malformation with diet components, and several socioeconomic and socio-demographic factors broadly encompassed in low socioeconomic status. Further characterization of risk factors will guide the assemblage of a pro-active counseling and prevention program for families at risk for non-syndromic cleft lip and cleft palate.

Pérdida de dientes en adolescentesy adultos jóvenes universitarios mexicanos / Teeth loss in university adolescents and young adults from México

El objetivo de este estudio fue estimar la prevalencia de pérdida de dientes (PD) permanentes en una población universitaria de adolescentes y adultos jóvenes, así como conocer su distribución por edad y sexo. Se realizó un estudio transversal en una muestra de 1027 adolescentes y adultos jóvenes de 16 a 25 años de edad seleccionados aleatoriamente del total de aspirantes a las licenciaturas de la Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, México. La variable dependiente fue la prevalencia de PD, codificándose como 0=sujetos sin PD y 1=sujetos que tuvieron al menos un diente perdido. Otras variables incluidas fueron edad y sexo del sujeto. El análisis se llevó a cabo en STATA v9,0 con regresión logística. El promedio de edad de los sujetos incluidos fue de 18,20±1,65 y 52,0% fueron hombres. La prevalencia de sujetos con PD fue de 18,0% (n=185) y el promedio de 0,46±1,13, mientras que en quienes tuvieron al menos uno perdido fue de 2,54±1,32. El número máximo de PD fue de 5. En el modelo ajustado obtuvimos significancia estadística en la edad (RM=1,11; p<0,05). Las mujeres tuvieron 41% mayor riesgo de presentar al menos un diente perdido que los hombres. Los sujetos que presentaron más de 6 obturaciones tuvieron mayor posibilidad de tener dientes perdidos (RM=1,60; p<0,05). Los hallazgos indican que la experiencia de tener PD alcanza casi el 20%, además se mostró una asociación entre la PD con la edad, el sexo y el número de obturaciones. Este estudio demuestra la existencia de desigualdades de género.

The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of permanent teeth loss in a university population of adolescents and young adults, and also to determine the distribution by age and sex. A cross-sectional study was carried out in a sample of 1027 adolescents and young adults from 16 to 25 years old selected randomly from the total number of applicants to the bachelor's degree program of San Luis Potosi University, Mexico. The dependent variable was the prevalence of tooth loss, codified as "0"=subjects without tooth loss and "1"=subjects with at least one tooth loss. Others variables included were age and sex. Analyzes was performed in STATA 9.0 with logistic regression. The mean of age was 18.20±1.65 and 52.0% were men. The prevalence of tooth loss was 18.0% (n=185) and the mean of 0.46±1.13, whereas in subjects with at least one tooth loss the mean was 2.54±1.32. The maximum number of teeth loss was 5. In the adjusted model we obtained statistic significance in the age (OR=1.11; p<0.05). Women have 41% high risk to present at least one tooth loss than men. Subjects that presented more of 6 filling have high possibility to have teeth loss (OR=1.60; p<0.05). Findings indicate that the experience to have tooth loss reaches nearly 20.0%, and that there was relationship between tooth loss and age, sex and number of fillings. This study demonstrates the existence of gender inequalities.

Necesidades de tratamiento periodontal en adultos de la región rural Mixteca del Estado de Puebla, México / Periodontal treatment needs in adults from Mixteca rural area in Puebla State, Mexico

Objetivo Determinar las necesidades de tratamiento periodontal (NTP) utilizando el índice Comunitario de Necesidades de Tratamiento Periodontal (ICNTP) en una muestra de habitantes de la región Mixteca del estado de Puebla. Material y Métodos Se realizó un estudio transversal en el que se incluyeron 50 pacientes de la clínica rural de Nativitas Cautempan, Puebla., México. Para determinar el estado de salud periodontal se utilizaron el índice Gingival y el índice Comunitario de Necesidades de Tratamiento Periodontal propuesto por la Organización Mundial de la Salud y la Federación Dental Internacional, aplicados por el mismo investigador previamente capacitado y estandarizado. En el análisis, se calculó media y desviación estándar para las variables cuantitativas y frecuencias y proporciones para las variables categóricas. Resultados La edad promedio fue 37,6± 13,6 años. El 60,0 por ciento fueron mujeres, cuya principal ocupación fue amas de casa (46,0 por ciento). El 14 por ciento fueron campesinos. El índice gingival reportó 50,0 por ciento, 32,0 por ciento y 14,0 por ciento para gingivitis leve, moderada y severa, respectivamente. Los sextantes posteriores superiores presentaron mas comúnmente bolsas de 4 a 5 mm, los sextantes anteriores, cálculo y los posteriores inferiores cálculo y hemorragia. El 94,0 por ciento de los pacientes requiere tratamiento periodontal en un promedio de 3,6 sextantes por paciente. Conclusiones Las necesidades de tratamiento periodontal fueron altas en este estudio, nueve de cada diez pacientes de la región Mixteca del Estado de Puebla lo requieren. Es necesario encaminar esfuerzos con el fin de mejorar la salud bucal en las comunidades indígenas.

Objective This study was aimed at determining periodontal treatment needs, as determined by the Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Need (CPITN), in a sample of adults from the Mixteca region of the State of Puebla, in Mexico. Materials and Methods This was a descriptive, cross-sectional, single-centre study. Previous informed consent was obtained; 60.0 percent of the sample were women whose main activity was housework (46 percent), 14.0 percent were farmers. Average age was 37.6 ± 13.6. Gingival and Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Need proposed by the World Health Organisation and the International Dental Federation were used; they were implemented by the same, previously-standardised researcher. Means, standard deviations and confidence intervals were calculated for dimensional variables and percentages for categorical ones. Results The gingival index gave 50.0 percent light gingivitis, 32.0 percent moderate and 14.0 percent severe gingivitis. The rear superior sextants commonly showed more 4 to 5 mm pockets, the front sextants calculus and the rear inferior sextants showed calculus and bleeding. 94.0 percent of the patients required periodontal treatment (3.6 sextants per patient average). Conclusions Periodontal treatment needs were high in this study; nine out of ten patients in the Mixteca region of the State of Puebla required periodontal treatment. Efforts must thus be guided towards improving oral health in indigenous communities.