Effectiveness of different toothbrushing patterns among schoolchildren in an urban area of Argentina.

AIM: To identify toothbrushing patterns among schoolchildren with no prior dental hygiene training and associate them with effectiveness for eliminating dental biofilm. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight calibrated dentists assessed dental biofilm, toothbrushing procedure and dental status and registered: grip, bristle angle with respect to tooth, type of movement, surfaces brushed, simultaneous brushing of both jaws, including all six sextants and duration of brushing dental biofilm before and after brushing was determined in 944 children. Frequency distribution was calculated for nominal variables and central tendency and dispersion for quantitative variables of the toothbrushing procedure. Effectiveness was evaluated in 236 children by calculating differences between biofilm levels before and after brushing using Student's test. A cutoff value was established for the difference in reductions in biofilm levels by means of an ROC curve. RESULTS: The variables including all 6 sextants and bristle angle showed positive association with biofilm reduction. The cutoff point for biofilm reduction for including all 6 sextants was 66.85% (OR 6.4 [3.6-11.38]). The cutoff value for biofilm reduction for bristle angle was 68.35% (OR 3.2 [1.83-5.8]). CONCLUSION: The variables associated with biofilm reduction can be used to optimize the modality of future educational interventions in schoolchildren.

Monocyte immunometabolic reprogramming in human pregnancy: contribution of trophoblast cells.

Immunometabolism research is uncovering the relationship between metabolic features and immune cell functions in physiological and pathological conditions. Normal pregnancy entails a fine immune and metabolic regulation of the maternal-fetal interaction to assist the energetic demands of the fetus with immune homeostasis maintenance. Here, we determined the immunometabolic status of monocytes of pregnant women compared with nonpregnant controls and its impact on monocyte anti-inflammatory functions such as efferocytosis. Monocytes from pregnant women (16-20 wk) and nonpregnant age-matched controls were studied. Single cell-based metabolic assays using freshly isolated monocytes from both groups were carried out in parallel with functional assays ex vivo to evaluate monocyte efferocytic capacity. On the other hand, various in vitro metabolic assays with human monocytes or monocyte-derived macrophages were designed to explore the effect of trophoblast cells in the profiles observed. We found that pregnancy alters monocyte metabolism and function. An increased glucose dependency and enhanced efferocytosis were detected in monocytes from pregnant women at resting states, compared with nonpregnant controls. Furthermore, monocytes display a reduced glycolytic response when stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The metabolic profiling of monocytes at this stage of pregnancy was comparable with the immunometabolic phenotypes of human monocytes treated in vitro with human first trimester trophoblast cell conditioned media. These findings suggest that immunometabolic mechanisms are involved in the functional shaping of monocytes during pregnancy with a contribution of trophoblast cells. Results provide new clues for future hypotheses regarding pregnancies complicated by metabolic disorders.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Immunometabolism stands as a novel perspective to understand the complex regulation of the immune response and to provide small molecule-based therapies. By applying this approach to study monocytes during pregnancy, we found that these cells have a unique activation pattern. They rely more on glycolysis and show increased efferocytosis/IL-10 production, but they do not have the typical proinflammatory responses. We also present evidence that trophoblast cells can shape monocytes into this distinct immunometabolic profile.

Core Cariology Curriculum Framework in Spanish for Latin American dental schools: development and consensus.

The aim of this study was to develop and achieve consensus on a cariology teaching framework for dental schools in Latin American Spanish-speaking countries. The Delphi process, with a ≥8 0% pre-defined participants' agreement, included three phases and a Coordinating Group. During the Preparation phase three panels of experts were selected and invited to participate: a) Regional academic/professional Dental Associations (Associations-Panel): n = 12; b) Regional Dental Schools (Dental-Schools-Panel): existing dental schools (n = 263) from the 19 Spanish-speaking regional countries; c) International academic/professional associations Peer Experts (Peer-Panel): n = 4. Based on consensus documents from Europe, Colombia, the Caribbean, USA, Chile and Spain, and updated scientific evidence, the Coordinating Group developed a baseline framework proposal of domains, main competencies (MC) and specific competencies (SC). The Consultation-Agreement and Consensus phases included three rounds of questionnaires with a step-wise sharing of the MC updated version of the consensus framework with the Dental-Schools-Panel and including SC with the Associations-Panel. Diverse communication strategies were used ( e.g ., independent google-form questionnaires and workshops). Consensus was reached after an on-site Associations-Panel workshop and secret voting, followed by an online meeting with the Peers-Panel. A total of 127 academic/professional institutions participated (Associations-Panel: 11, 91.6%; Dental-Schools-Panel: 112, 42.6%, all countries; Peers-Panel: 4, 100%). The baseline Cariology teaching framework of 5 domains, 10 MC and 92 SC underwent modifications after agreements for a final consensus framework consisting of 5 domains, 10 MC and 85 SC. A Core Cariology curriculum framework in Spanish for Latin American Dental Schools was successfully developed and agreed upon with regional dental academic and professional institutions.

Fluoride in drinking groundwater and prevalence of fluorosis in children and adolescents: A systematic review / Fluoruro en el agua subterránea potable y prevalencia de fluorosis en niños y adolescentes: Una revisión sistemática

ABSTRACT Fluorosis is a worldwide public health problem. One of the factors related to it is the type of water consumed, such as groundwater. High fluoride concentration in groundwater may be explained by contamination from local industries. Since fluoride and arsenic are the main pollutants of groundwater, some studies correlate groundwater consumption with high prevalence of fluorosis Aim The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review to determine whether children's risk of fluorosis is related to drinking groundwater Materials and Method The protocol for this systematic review was registered at the National Institute of Health Research Database (CRD42021227298). A comprehensive search was conducted to identify potentially relevant studies by exploring a range of electronic databases (Medline via PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Web of Science Core Collection, Medline via Ovid, Lilacs, Embase, and grey literature) Results A total 2189 articles were found. After reading titles and abstracts, 63 were selected for screening, and the final data was extracted from 15 articles Conclusion A relationship was identified between drinking fluoridated water from wells and the prevalence of fluorosis in individuals up to 18 years old. This is the first study to assess the issue systematically worldwide.

RESUMEN La fluorosis es un problema de salud pública a nivel mundial y el tipo de agua consumida es uno de los factores relacionados con ella, como el consumo de aguas subterráneas. La alta concentración de fluoruro en estas aguas puede justificarse por la contaminación por industrias locales y las características del suelo, donde algunos estudios correlacionan el consumo de aguas subterráneas con una alta prevalencia de fluorosis, ya que el fluoruro, junto con el arsénico, se consideran los principales contaminantes de estas aguas Objetivo El objetivo es realizar una revisión sistemática que relacione el riesgo de fluorosis en niños expuestos al consumo de agua procedente de pozos Materiales y Método El protocolo de esta revisión sistemática fue registrado en el National Institute of Health Research Database (CRD42021227298). Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica de estudios primarios explorando diversas bases de datos electrónicas (Medline vía PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Web of Science Core Collection, Medline vía Ovid, Lilacs, Embase y literatura gris) Resultados Se encontraron 2189 artículos, tras la lectura de títulos y resúmenes se seleccionaron 63 referencias para examinar y, finalmente, se extrajeron los datos de 15 artículos Conclusiones Se identificó una relación entre el consumo de agua fluorada de pozo y la prevalencia de fluorosis en individuos de hasta 18 años, siendo este estudio el primero en evaluarlo sistemáticamente a nivel mundial.

Core curriculum in cariology for dentistry degrees in the Republic of Argentina / Contenidos Mínimos de Cariología en el Currículo de las Carreras de Odontología en la República Argentina

ABSTRACT Aim To prepare a consensus document of the cariology contents and competences included in the curriculum for the dentistry degree at Argentine dental faculties/schools Materials and Method Planning the process in stages: Stage 1- Diagnosis of the situation (Google Form) and invitation to participate extended to the 20 academic units that offer dentistry degrees. Stage 2- Assessment process of Content (C) and Competences (I) agreements in the five domains: D1 Basic Sciences, D2 Risk and diagnosis of dental caries, D3 Decision-making for non-invasive treatments, D4 Decision-making for invasive treatment, and D5 Evidence-based cariology at community level. Stage 3- Consensus. Stages 2 and 3 were held in Workshop format in virtual mode (W) Results Stage 1- Of the total 20 Google forms sent to the AU, 13 responses were received: 7 from National Universities and 6 from Private Universities. All participants agreed to be part of the consensus. Stage 2- W: 20 representatives from 10 AU participated. It began with a contextualizing conference, after which the representatives were divided into 5 groups to assess the agreements of each D. Stage 3- The Cariology Curriculum document was organized into 5 Domains, and 23 C and 31 I of clinical application were defined for teaching cariology. The contents and competences for each domain were agreed upon. The final document was sent to all W participants for their approval and dissemination in each AU involved Conclusion Cariology contents were defined for dentistry students at Universities in the Argentine Republic.

RESUMEN Objetivo Elaborar un documento de consenso de los contenidos y competencias de cariología en el currículo para las facultades/escuelas de odontología argentinas, a nivel del grado Materiales y Método El proceso de creación se efectuó en etapas: 1- Diagnóstico de situación (Formulario electrónico) e invitación a participar a las 20 unidades académicas (UA) donde se imparte la carrera de odontología. 2- Proceso de valoración de acuerdos de Contenidos (C) y Competencias (I) en los cinco dominios (D): D1: Ciencias Básicas; D2: Riesgo y diagnóstico de caries dental; D3: Toma de decisiones tratamientos no invasivos; D4: Toma de decisiones para el tratamiento invasivo y D5: Cariología basada en la evidencia a nivel comunitario. 3- Etapa de consenso. Las etapas 2 y 3 se efectuaron en formato de Workshop en modalidad virtual (W) Resultados Etapa 1: Del total de 20 formularios enviados a las UA se recibieron 13 respuestas (65%), 7 (53,8%) de Universidades Nacionales y 6 (46,1%) de gestión Privada. El 100% de los participantes estuvieron de acuerdo en formar parte del consenso. Etapa 2: W: Participaron 20 representantes de 10 UA. El proceso se inició con una conferencia contextualizadora, posteriormente los representantes fueron divididos en 5 grupos para la valoración de acuerdos de cada D. Etapa 3: El documento de658. 658.l Currículo en Cariología se organizó en 5 Dominios. Se definieron 23 C y 31 I de aplicación clínica para la enseñanza de la Cariología. Se consensuaron los contenidos y las competencias para cada uno de los dominios. El documento final fue enviado a todos los participantes del W para su aprobación y difusión en cada una de las UA involucradas Conclusión En base al trabajo realizado se determinó un consenso de competencias y contenidos en cariología para estudiantes de grado de Odontología, de las Universidades de la República Argentina.

An Alternative Technique for Topical Application of Acidulated Phosphate Fluoride (APF) Gel: A Two-Years Double-Blind Randomization Clinical Trial (RCT).

Background and Objectives: Dental caries is still a dramatic public health problem. The effectiveness of an alternative technique using acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel pH 3.5 was evaluated and compared with conventional treatments in reducing dental caries incidence. Materials and Methods: A double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted, involving 180 children aged 4-11 years. Three groups were formed: NaF varnish (NaFV), APF in tray (APFt), and APF in toothbrush (APFtbru). Clinical examinations were performed using standardized criteria and the ICDAS Index was assessed. The Caries Treatment Needs Index (CTNI) was calculated. Dental examinations were conducted at baseline, 12 months, and 24 months. Results: At baseline, 16,719 dental surfaces were included, with 15,434 surfaces being sound. After 24 months, the Kaplan-Meier analysis showed significant differences between the APFtbru group and the other two groups (p = 0.03). Cox regression analysis revealed that the surfaces treated with NaF varnish had the lowest survival rates (HR = 0.51 95%CI = 0.33/0.81). Occlusal surfaces had the lowest cumulative survival, while other tooth surfaces showed similar performance. Conclusions: The alternative technique of APF gel application with a toothbrush resulted in maintaining dental health over 24 months. This technique can be cost-effective and may offer advantages over traditional fluoride varnish application.

Detection of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus and Their Association with Oral Microbiome Stressors in 6-18-month-old Infants.

Aim: To determine the presence of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Streptococcus sobrinus (S. sobrinus) and their association with extrinsic and intrinsic variables in 6-18-month-old infants. Methods: This was an analytical, cross-sectional study of 65 6-18-month-old infants who visited the Centers for Early Childhood in Buenos Aires City. Three groups were established according to the presence of teeth-group I (GI)-edentulous infants, group II (GII)-infants with 1-8 teeth, and group III (GIII)-infants with 9-16 teeth. Data on the variables, diet, use of artificial teats, and oral hygiene were gathered using a self-administered questionnaire. An oral examination was performed according to the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS II) criterion. A saliva sample was taken by aspiration with a sterile plastic syringe. Cariogenic Streptococci (CS) were counted using the adherence test in modified gold broth (AT-MGB). Molecular detection and quantification were performed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) (gtfB, gtfT, and tuf). Results: A total of 12% of infants received oral hygiene, 38% used bottles, 30% used pacifiers, and 55% had sugar intake. S. sobrinus and S. mutans were detected in 57.1 and 28.6% of the children with caries, respectively. Groups I, II, and III had CS counts of log 2, 3.4, and 3.7, respectively. S. sobrinus was detected in 26.7% of GI, 52.9% of GII, and 85.7% of GIII, while S. mutans was detected in 13.3%, 35.3%, and 57.7%, respectively. Conclusion: The prevalence of S. sobrinus was higher than S. mutans in all groups. The presence of CS was significantly associated with sugar intake. No association was found between S. mutans and S. sobrinus and the presence of caries, hygiene habits, or use of artificial teats. Clinical Significance: This study supports the role of diet in developing a cariogenic biofilm in children under 2 years of age. How to cite this article: Cornejo CF, Soken LJ, Salgado PA, et al. Detection of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus and Their Association with Oral Microbiome Stressors in 6-18-month-old Infants. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(1):68-73.

Is self-perception of oral health associated with expectations of employability?

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire that allows a systematic evaluation of the impact of self-perceived oral health on expectations of getting a job on adult population seeking dental care, and to describe its associations with demographic characteristics, job related, and health coverage variables. We designed a descriptive cross-sectional study including men and women aged 18 to 65 years from a population seeking dental services in a walk-in clinic. In a first stage we design and validated an instrument on a sample of 100 subjects. The questionnaire was registered in a Likert scale, with higher scores represented higher impact of the oral status self-perception on employability. We calculated internal consistency, construct validity, and domains validation. The final instrument consisted in an 18-item questionnaire (Cronbach α = 0.814), grouped into two domains based on exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The total variance explained with values >1 was 66 percent, grouping questions into six components. One domain refers to oral health status and importance of dental aesthetics, while the other refers to specific job-seeking elements. In a second stage we applied the questionnaire on 800 participants from the same population of reference. Women, people who intended to change jobs, those younger than 40 years old, having health insurance, and higher educational level showed statistically significant higher scores than their counterparts (p<0.001). We developed a tool that enables evaluating the impact of self-perceived oral health on expectations of getting a job for adults seeking emergency care in a dental clinic.

Fluoride content in paediatric dentifrices commercialized in Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to determine the total, soluble and ionic fluoride (IF) concentration in toothpastes for children since there is a lack of information about this data. METHODS: Fifteen different brands of toothpastes were purchased in different cities in Brazil. The total fluoride (TF), total soluble fluoride (TSF) and IF of two samples of each brand were determined (µg/g F). RESULTS: The concentration of TF found in the fluoride toothpastes ranged from 324.4 to 1466.2 µg/g F, TSF ranged from 214.6 to 1424.1 µg/g F and IF ranged from 108.3 to 1320.1 µg/g F. TSF ranged between TF and IF. Most toothpastes were formulated with sodium fluoride (NaF), and only one with monofluorophosphate (MFP). The concentrations of TF were below the reported values. TSF and IF were below the TF concentration. CONCLUSIONS: The measured TF was less than that declared by the manufacturer in all the products. Most of the evaluated fluoride toothpastes commercialized in Brazil showed concentrations of TF below what was stated on the packaging, but with enough TSF to provide an anti-caries effect.

Fluoride concentration in dentifrices marketed In Argentina.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to determine the different forms of fluoride available in dentifrices commercialized in Argentina. METHODS: Thirty three different brands of fluoridated dentifrices were purchased in different cities of Argentina. The total fluoride (TF), total soluble fluoride (TSF) and ionic fluoride (IF) of two samples of each brand were analysed (µg F/ml) by ion-specific fluorine electrodes. RESULTS: A total of 67% of dentifrices showed fluoride content that compromises anti-caries activity. A total of 54.5% was formulated with sodium fluoride (NaF), 36.3% formulated with sodium monofluorophosphate (MFP), 3% NaF associated with MFP and 9% formulated with stannous fluoride (SnF2). The TF found was less than the amount declared by the manufacturer in all the brands analysed. The concentration of TF found in the fluoride dentifrices ranged from 590.3 to 1381.4 µg/ml F, TSF ranged from 343.1 to 1258.3 µg/ml F, and IF ranged from 13.1 to 913 µg/ml F. CONCLUSION: The concentrations of TF were below the reported values. TSF and IF were lower than the total fluoride concentration. Most of the samples studied have TSF concentration that compromises anti-caries effect. Additional studies with a larger number of samples are suggested to obtain more data.

Core Cariology Curriculum Framework in Spanish for Latin American dental schools: development and consensus

Abstract The aim of this study was to develop and achieve consensus on a cariology teaching framework for dental schools in Latin American Spanish-speaking countries. The Delphi process, with a ≥8 0% pre-defined participants' agreement, included three phases and a Coordinating Group. During the Preparation phase three panels of experts were selected and invited to participate: a) Regional academic/professional Dental Associations (Associations-Panel): n = 12; b) Regional Dental Schools (Dental-Schools-Panel): existing dental schools (n = 263) from the 19 Spanish-speaking regional countries; c) International academic/professional associations Peer Experts (Peer-Panel): n = 4. Based on consensus documents from Europe, Colombia, the Caribbean, USA, Chile and Spain, and updated scientific evidence, the Coordinating Group developed a baseline framework proposal of domains, main competencies (MC) and specific competencies (SC). The Consultation-Agreement and Consensus phases included three rounds of questionnaires with a step-wise sharing of the MC updated version of the consensus framework with the Dental-Schools-Panel and including SC with the Associations-Panel. Diverse communication strategies were used ( e.g ., independent google-form questionnaires and workshops). Consensus was reached after an on-site Associations-Panel workshop and secret voting, followed by an online meeting with the Peers-Panel. A total of 127 academic/professional institutions participated (Associations-Panel: 11, 91.6%; Dental-Schools-Panel: 112, 42.6%, all countries; Peers-Panel: 4, 100%). The baseline Cariology teaching framework of 5 domains, 10 MC and 92 SC underwent modifications after agreements for a final consensus framework consisting of 5 domains, 10 MC and 85 SC. A Core Cariology curriculum framework in Spanish for Latin American Dental Schools was successfully developed and agreed upon with regional dental academic and professional institutions.

Estrategias de autorregulación del aprendizaje en contextos virtuales en estudiantes de odontología / Strategies for the self-regulation of learning in virtual contexts in dental students

Objetivo: Comparar estrategias de autorregulación del aprendizaje en contextos virtuales de estudiantes de la carrera de odontología. Métodos: Participantes: estudiantes de 5 asignaturas de la carrera de odon-tología (N=1514). Instrumento: escala de auto-re-porte validada con 25 reactivos agrupados en 5 dimensiones: D1) Estrategias de planeación y control; D2) Atribuciones motivacionales; D3) Trabajo colabo-rativo con compañeros; D4) Apoyo del asesor en las tareas. La muestra se agrupó en 3: (G3) cursantes del último año de la carrera; (G2) de asignaturas in-termedias; (G1) de primer año. Se utilizaron: ANOVA de medidas repetidas y test de Tukey como post-hoc; tests de X2 y comparación de proporciones con post-hoc de Bonferroni. Resultados: Puntajes por grupo (media±DS-%): D1) G3=39,2±5,6-78,5%; G2=38,8±6,1-77,6%; G1=36,7±5,7-73,1%. D2) G3=14,4±5,2-57,4%; G2=15,5±5,1-61,9%; G1=14,8±5,6-59,3%. D3) G3=22,8±3,1-91,2%; G2=21,2±4,3-84,7%; G1=18,9±6,5­76,3%. D4) G3=15,5±4,5­61,9%; G2=15,8±4,6-63,1%; G1=16,4±4,0-65,8%. Diferencias significativas: entre G1 y G3 en D1 (p=0,014) y entre los tres grupos en D3 (p<0,001). G1 y G3 se diferenciaron (p<0,05) en cin-co de los 10 reactivos de D1 y en todos los reactivos de D3. Conclusiones: Los estudiantes de primer año reportaron menos estrategias de planeación y con-trol. El trabajo colaborativo mostró un incremento a lo largo de la carrera (AU)

Objective: To compare self-regulated learning strat-egies in virtual contexts (VC) among dental students. Methods: Participants: Undergraduate dental students attending five subjects. (N=1514). We used a validat-ed self-report scale with 25 items grouped into five dimensions: D1) planning and control strategies, D2) motivational attributes, D3) collaborative work with colleagues, and D4) support from the advisor Statistical analysis: The relative percentage of the max-imum score was calculated. Students were grouped into 3: those in the last year of their degree (G3), an intermediate group (G2), and freshmen (G1). We used repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test to compare the relative weights of the dimensions; X2 test, proportion comparisons, and Bonferroni post-hoc test were used for comparisons. Results: Scores by group (mean±SD-%): D1) G3=39.2±5.6-78.5%; G2=38.8±6.1-77.6%; G1=36.7±5.7-73.1%. D2) G3=14.4±5.2-57.4%; G2=15.5±5.1-61.9%; G1=14.8±5.6-59.3%. D3) G3=22.8±3.1-91.2%; G2=21.2±4.3-84.7%; G1=18.9±6.5­76.3%. D4) G3=15.5±4.5­61.9%; G2=15.8±4.6-63.1%; G1=16.4±4.0­65.8%. Significant differences were observed between G1 and G3 on D1 (p=0.014), and between the three groups on D3 (p<0.001). G1 and G3 differed (p<0.05) in five of the 10 D1 items and in all D3 items. Conclusions: Freshmen reported the lowest number of planning and control strategies. Collaborative work increased throughout the career (AU)

Estudio de supervivencia de Streptococcus mutans en un tipo de fomite / Survival study of Streptococcus mutans in a type of fomite

Objetivo: Evaluar la supervivencia de Streptococcus mutans (S.mutans)en un tipo de fómite. Método: Se reactivó una cepa de S.mutans ATCC25175 criopre-servada en agar TYCSB. El inóculo se estandarizó en PBS buffer hasta obtener turbidez equivalente al 0,5 de Mc Farland y un OD = 0.01 por espectrofotome-tría. Bloques plásticos de 2cm2/superficie fueron seleccionados como fómites. La descontaminación de los bloques se realizó por inmersión en alcohol etílico 70% v/v durante 10 minutos, los que fueron secados en cabina de seguridad biológica. La conta-minación de los mismos se realizó por inmersión en inóculo estandarizado durante 10 minutos. Los blo-ques contaminados se extrajeron y depositaron so-bre placas de Petri estériles hasta cumplir los tiem-pos propuestos (T0-T4 con intervalos de 30 minutos). A cada tiempo, los bloques fueron eluidos en 20 ml de buffer PBS y agitados en vortex durante 30 segun-dos. 100 µl de cada eluato fueron sembrados por dis-persión en agar TYCSB e incubados en anaerobiosis por 48 horas a 37°C. El recuento de colonias (UFC/ml) se realizó bajo lupa estereoscópica 50X. Resulta-dos: El recuento inicial de S.mutans fue de 7,8 X 106(DS+1,7 X 106) UFC/ml y para cada tiempo de estu-dio fue de: T0=3.25 X 104 (DS+1.9 X 103); T1=2.63X104 (DS+4,50E+03); T2= 1.85 X 104 (DS+9,45E+02); T3=1.93 X103(DS+1,29E+03) y T4=1.2X103 (DS+7,21x102). Conclusión: En los rangos de tiempos establecidos, la cepa de S.mutans ensayada permaneció viable sobre la superficie plástica (AU)

Aim: To evaluate the survival time of Streptococcus mutans (S.mutans) in a type of fomites. Method: A strain of cryopreserved S.mutans ATCC 25175 was reactivated in TYCSB agar. The inoculum was standardized in the PBS buffer to obtain turbidity equivalent to 0.5 Mc Farland and OD = 0.01 by spectrophotometry. Plastic blocks of 2 cm2 /surface were selected as fomites. Decontamination of the blocks was carried out for 10 minutes by immersion in ethyl alcohol 70% v/v, which were dried in a biosafety chamber. Contamination was carried out by immersion in standardized inoculum for 10 minutes. The contaminated blocks were extracted and put on sterile Petri dishes until the proposed times were met (T0-T4 at 30-minute intervals). At each time, the blocks were eluted in 20 ml of PBS buffer and vortexed for 30 seconds. 100 µl of each eluate were dispersed on TYCSB agar and incubated anaerobically for 48 hours at 37°C. Colony count (CFU/ml) was performed under a 50X stereoscopic magnifying glass. Results: The initial S.mutans count was 7,8 X 106 (DS+1,7 X 106) CFU/ml and for each study time was: T0=3.25 X 104 (DS+1.9 X 103); T1=2.63X104 (DS+4,50E+03); T2= 1.85 X 104 (DS+9,45E+02); T3=1.93 X103(DS+1,29E+03) y T4=1.2X103 (DS+7,21x102). Conclusion: Within the established time ranges, the tested S.mutans strain remained viable on the plastic surface (AU))

Is self-perception of oral health associated with expectations of employability?

Abstract The aim of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire that allows a systematic evaluation of the impact of self-perceived oral health on expectations of getting a job on adult population seeking dental care, and to describe its associations with demographic characteristics, job related, and health coverage variables. We designed a descriptive cross-sectional study including men and women aged 18 to 65 years from a population seeking dental services in a walk-in clinic. In a first stage we design and validated an instrument on a sample of 100 subjects. The questionnaire was registered in a Likert scale, with higher scores represented higher impact of the oral status self-perception on employability. We calculated internal consistency, construct validity, and domains validation. The final instrument consisted in an 18-item questionnaire (Cronbach α = 0.814), grouped into two domains based on exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The total variance explained with values >1 was 66 percent, grouping questions into six components. One domain refers to oral health status and importance of dental aesthetics, while the other refers to specific job-seeking elements. In a second stage we applied the questionnaire on 800 participants from the same population of reference. Women, people who intended to change jobs, those younger than 40 years old, having health insurance, and higher educational level showed statistically significant higher scores than their counterparts (p<0.001). We developed a tool that enables evaluating the impact of self-perceived oral health on expectations of getting a job for adults seeking emergency care in a dental clinic.

Fluoride in drinking groundwater and prevalence of fluorosis in children and adolescents: A systematic review.

Fluorosis is a worldwide public health problem. One of the factors related to it is the type of water consumed, such as groundwater. High fluoride concentration in groundwater may be explained by contamination from local industries. Since fluoride and arsenic are the main pollutants of groundwater, some studies correlate groundwater consumption with high prevalence of fluorosis. Aim: The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review to determine whether children's risk of fluorosis is related to drinking groundwater. Materials and Method: The protocol for this systematic review was registered at the National Institute of Health Research Database (CRD42021227298). A comprehensive search was conducted to identify potentially relevant studies by exploring a range of electronic databases (Medline via PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Web of Science Core Collection, Medline via Ovid, Lilacs, Embase, and grey literature). Results: A total 2189 articles were found. After reading titles and abstracts, 63 were selected for screening, and the final data was extracted from 15 articles. Conclusion: A relationship was identified between drinking fluoridated water from wells and the prevalence of fluorosis in individuals up to 18 years old. This is the first study to assess the issue systematically worldwide.

La fluorosis es un problema de salud pública a nivel mundial y el tipo de agua consumida es uno de los factores relacionados con ella, como el consumo de aguas subterráneas. La alta concentración de fluoruro en estas aguas puede justificarse por la contaminación por industrias locales y las características del suelo, donde algunos estudios correlacionan el consumo de aguas subterráneas con una alta prevalencia de fluorosis, ya que el fluoruro, junto con el arsénico, se consideran los principales contaminantes de estas aguas. Objetivo: El objetivo es realizar una revisión sistemática que relacione el riesgo de fluorosis en niños expuestos al consumo de agua procedente de pozos. Materiales y Método: El protocolo de esta revisión sistemática fue registrado en el National Institute of Health Research Database (CRD42021227298). Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica de estudios primarios explorando diversas bases de datos electrónicas (Medline vía PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Web of Science Core Collection, Medline vía Ovid, Lilacs, Embase y literatura gris). Resultados: Se encontraron 2189 artículos, tras la lectura de títulos y resúmenes se seleccionaron 63 referencias para examinar y, finalmente, se extrajeron los datos de 15 artículos. Conclusiones: Se identificó una relación entre el consumo de agua fluorada de pozo y la prevalencia de fluorosis en individuos de hasta 18 años, siendo este estudio el primero en evaluarlo sistemáticamente a nivel mundial.

Core curriculum in cariology for dentistry degrees in the Republic of Argentina.

Aim: To prepare a consensus document of the cariology contents and competences included in the curriculum for the dentistry degree at Argentine dental faculties/schools. Materials and Method: Planning the process in stages: Stage 1- Diagnosis of the situation (Google Form) and invitation to participate extended to the 20 academic units (AU) that offer dentistry degrees. Stage 2- Assessment process of Content (C) and Competences (I) agreements in the five domains: D1 Basic Sciences, D2 Risk and diagnosis of dental caries, D3 Decision-making for non-invasive treatments, D4 Decision-making for invasive treatment, and D5 Evidence-based cariology at community level. Stage 3- Consensus. Stages 2 and 3 were held in Workshop format in virtual mode (W). Results: Stage 1- Of the total 20 Google forms sent to the AU, 13 responses were received: 7 from National Universities and 6 from Private Universities. All participants agreed to be part of the consensus. Stage 2- W: 20 representatives from 10 AU participated. It began with a contextualizing conference, after which the representatives were divided into 5 groups to assess the agreements of each D. Stage 3- The Cariology Curriculum document was organized into 5 Domains, and 23 C and 31 I of clinical application were defined for teaching cariology. The contents and competences for each domain were agreed upon. The final document was sent to all W participants for their approval and dissemination in each AU involved. Conclusion: Cariology contents were defined for dentistry students at Universities in the Argentine Republic.

Objetivo: Elaborar un documento de consenso de los contenidos y competencias de cariología en el currículo para las facultades/escuelas de odontología argentinas, a nivel del grado. Materiales y Método: El proceso de creación se efectuó en etapas: 1- Diagnóstico de situación (Formulario electrónico) e invitación a participar a las 20 unidades académicas (UA) donde se imparte la carrera de odontología. 2- Proceso de valoración de acuerdos de Contenidos (C) y Competencias (I) en los cinco dominios (D): D1: Ciencias Básicas; D2: Riesgo y diagnóstico de caries dental; D3: Toma de decisiones tratamientos no invasivos; D4: Toma de decisiones para el tratamiento invasivo y D5: Cariología basada en la evidencia a nivel comunitario. 3- Etapa de consenso. Las etapas 2 y 3 se efectuaron en formato de Workshop en modalidad virtual (W). Resultados: Etapa 1: Del total de 20 formularios enviados a las UA se recibieron 13 respuestas (65%), 7 (53,8%) de Universidades Nacionales y 6 (46,1%) de gestión Privada. El 100% de los participantes estuvieron de acuerdo en formar parte del consenso. Etapa 2: W: Participaron 20 representantes de 10 UA. El proceso se inició con una conferencia contextualizadora, posteriormente los representantes fueron divididos en 5 grupos para la valoración de acuerdos de cada D. Etapa 3: El documento de658. 658.l Currículo en Cariología se organizó en 5 Dominios. Se definieron 23 C y 31 I de aplicación clínica para la enseñanza de la Cariología. Se consensuaron los contenidos y las competencias para cada uno de los dominios. El documento final fue enviado a todos los participantes del W para su aprobación y difusión en cada una de las UA involucradas. Conclusión: En base al trabajo realizado se determinó un consenso de competencias y contenidos en cariología para estudiantes de grado de Odontología, de las Universidades de la República Argentina.

Learning strategies of dental students in Buenos Aires, Argentina prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic / Impacto de la pandemia por covid-19 sobre las estrategias de aprendizaje de los estudiantes de odontología en Buenos Aires, Argentina

ABSTRACT Various theories have endeavored to explain how knowledge is accessed. Students, in order to learn, need a good repertoire of appropriate metacognitive and self-regulating strategies and knowledge, which they use consciously or unconsciously. Teachers, in addition to knowing how to teach, need to be aware of students' learning strategies, metacognition, and self-regulation, and of the impact of changes associated with recent pandemic scenarios. Aim: The aim of this study was to identify the study strategies preferred by dental students in two different scenarios: prior to and during the pandemic. Materials and Method: The sample consisted of third-year dentistry students at Buenos Aires University (UBA) during 2019 (Group GP, 141 students, face-toface activity) and 2021 (Group GE, 60 students, e-learning during the pandemic). Participants were asked (a) to provide demographic information (sex and age) and (b) to answer the abridged ACRA scale. Statistical treatment included descriptive tests; Chi2, binomial exact and Student's t-test (p<0.05). Results: The proportion of students who participated with respect to total students enrolled was 58.50% in 2019 and 26.20% in 2021, with female gender being significantly higher. There were significant differences in total number of participants during the different periods (p=0.001), and in gender distribution during the pandemic (p=0.007). Comparison between groups GP and GE showed no significant difference regarding preferences expressed in total values for the scale or for the domains. Analysis of preferences according to gender showed significant differences in total group (p=0.007) and the domains CLCS (Cognitive and Learning Control Strategies) (p= 0.008) and LSS (Learning Support Strategies) (p=0.002). The mean values of preferences selected by females were higher. Similar results were found upon analyzing preferences during the pandemic (n= 60) considering total score (p= 0.033) and the domains CLCS (p= 0.035) and LSS (p= 0.007). Conclusions: The study identified trends towards an increase in the score and consequently greater use of techniques included in the domains related to metacognition, especially among women. There is potential neutralization of the impact created by the methodological shift between the two periods (face-to-face and e-learning) probably as a result of the implicit adaptability, latent in students, regarding digital methodology, which enables them to adapt to learning in challenging situations.

RESUMEN Varias teorías se han esforzado por explicar cómo se accede al conocimiento. Para aprender, los estudiantes necesitan tener un conjunto de estrategias y conocimientos apropiados, y utilizarlos consciente o inconscientemente. Los docentes deben conocer las estrategias de aprendizaje, la metacognición y la autorregulación de los estudiantes, así como el impacto de los cambios asociados con los escenarios pandémicos recientes sobre esas estrategias. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar las estrategias de estudio preferidas por los estudiantes de odontología en diferentes escenarios: previo y durante la pandemia. Materiales y Método: La muestra estuvo conformada por estudiantes de tercer año de la carrera de odontología (UBA) durante el año 2019 (Grupo GP, 141 estudiantes, actividad presencial) y 2021 (Grupo GE, 60 estudiantes, e-learning durante la pandemia). Los participantes proporcionaron información demográfica (sexo y edad) y respondieron el cuestionario ACRA abreviado. El tratamiento estadístico incluyó medidas de tendencia central, dispersión y distribución de frecuencias, prueba Chi2, binomial exacta y prueba t de Student (p<0,05). Resultados: La distribución de estudiantes que participaron con respecto al total de estudiantes matriculados fue de 58,50% en 2019 y 26,20% en 2021, siendo significativamente mayor el género femenino. Hubo diferencias significativas en el número total de participantes durante los diferentes períodos (p=0,001) y en la distribución por género durante la pandemia (p=0,007). La comparación entre los grupos GP y GE no mostró diferencia significativa en cuanto a las preferencias expresadas en valores totales para la escala o para los dominios. El análisis de preferencias según género mostró diferencias significativas en: grupo total (p=0,007) y los dominios ECCA (Estrategias de Control Cognitivo y de Aprendizaje) (p= 0,008) y EAA (Estrategias de Apoyo al Aprendizaje) (p=0,002). Los valores medios de las preferencias seleccionadas por las mujeres fueron más altos. Resultados similares se encontraron al analizar las preferencias durante la pandemia (n= 60) considerando la puntuación total (p= 0,033) y los dominios ECCA (p= 0,035) y EAA (p= 0,007). Conclusiones: El estudio identificó un aumento en el puntaje y consecuentemente un mayor uso de técnicas incluidas en los dominios relacionados con la metacognición, especialmente entre las mujeres. Existe una potencial neutralización del impacto creado por el cambio metodológico entre los dos períodos (presencial y e-learning) probablemente como resultado de la adaptabilidad implícita, latente en los estudiantes, respecto a la metodología digital, que les permita adaptarse al aprendizaje en situaciones desafiantes.

Fluoride and silver ion concentrations and pH in silver diamine fluoride solutions from Argentina.

The aim of this study was to measure the fluoride (F) and silver (Ag) ion concentration and the pH, over time, of 2 solutions of 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) produced in Argentina. The brand Fluorsilver® was established as Group 1 (G1) (Densell), and the brand FAgamin® (Tedequim) as Group 2 (G2), each with two different lots. The following were determined at time 0 (t0) and 30 days after opening (t30): a) fluoride concentration (w/v) by visible spectrophotometry b) Ag content (w/v) by atomic absorption spectrophotometry c) pH. Results: The data in the freshly opened bottles were for G1 lot1/lot2: a) 0.96/1, b) 8.3/7.8, c).11.5/11.3; G2 lot1/lot2: a) 11.5/9.9, b) 39/39, c) 7/6,9; and after 30 days, G1 lot1/lot2: a) 0.85/0.81, b) 7.2/8.2, c) 11.3/11.6; G2 lot1/lot2: a) 9.35/8.43, b) 38/38, c) 7.6/7.6. Conclusion In relation to the expected values (5.0-5.9% fluoride and 24.4-28.8% silver), the average concentration of fluoride and silver ions was lower for G1, but higher for G2. The pH was alkaline for G1 and neutral for G2. Over the 30 days, the content of fluoride and silver tended to decrease.

El objetivo de este estudio fue medir las concentraciones de iones de fluoruro (F) y plata (Ag) y el pH, de 2 soluciones de diamino fluoruro de plata (SDF) al 38% producidas en Argentina. Se estableció como Grupo 1 (G1) la marca Fluorsilver® (Densell), y FAgamin® (Tedequim) como Grupo 2 (G2), cada uno con dos lotes diferentes. Se determinó: a) la concentración de fluoruro (p/v) por espectrofotometría visible, b) el contenido de Ag (p/v) por espectrofotometría de absorción atómica y c) el pH, y fue medido en un tiempo 0 (t0) y 30 días después de la apertura del frasco (t30). Resultado: En tiempo 0 para G1 lote1/lote2 fue: a) 0,96/1, b) 8,3/7,8 c).11,5/11,3 y G2 lote1/lote2: a) 11,5/9,9, b) 39/39, c) 7/6,9. A los 30 días G1 lote1/lote2: a) 0,85/0,81, b) 7,2/8,2, c) 11,3/11,6 y G2 lote1/lote2: a) 9,35/8,43, b) 38/38, c) 7,6/7,6. La concentración de iones de fluoruro y plata para G1 fue menor en relación a los valores esperados (5,0-5,9% de fluoruro y 24,4- 28.8% plata), sin embargo G2 obtuvo valores más altos. G1 muestra resultados de pH alcalino y G2 neutro. A lo largo de los 30 días, el contenido de fluoruro y plata tiende a disminuir.

Fluoride and silver ion concentrations and pH in silver diamine fluoride solutions from Argentina / Concentraciones de fluoruro y plata y pH en soluciones de diamino fluoruro de plata producidos en Argentina

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to measure the fluoride (F) and silver (Ag) ion concentration and the pH, over time, of 2 solutions of 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) produced in Argentina. The brand Fluorsilver® was established as Group 1 (G1) (Densell), and the brand FAgamin® (Tedequim) as Group 2 (G2), each with two different lots. The following were determined at time 0 (t0) and 30 days after opening (t30): a) fluoride concentration (w/v) by visible spectrophotometry b) Ag content (w/v) by atomic absorption spectrophotometry c) pH. Results: The data in the freshly opened bottles were for G1 lot1/lot2: a) 0.96/1, b) 8.3/7.8, c).11.5/11.3; G2 lot1/lot2: a) 11.5/9.9, b) 39/39, c) 7/6,9; and after 30 days, G1 lot1/lot2: a) 0.85/0.81, b) 7.2/8.2, c) 11.3/11.6; G2 lot1/lot2: a) 9.35/8.43, b) 38/38, c) 7.6/7.6. Conclusion In relation to the expected values (5.0-5.9% fluoride and 24.4-28.8% silver), the average concentration of fluoride and silver ions was lower for G1, but higher for G2. The pH was alkaline for G1 and neutral for G2. Over the 30 days, the content of fluoride and silver tended to decrease.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue medir las concentraciones de iones de fluoruro (F) y plata (Ag) y el pH, de 2 soluciones de diamino fluoruro de plata (SDF) al 38% producidas en Argentina. Se estableció como Grupo 1 (G1) la marca Fluorsilver® (Densell), y FAgamin® (Tedequim) como Grupo 2 (G2), cada uno con dos lotes diferentes. Se determinó: a) la concentración de fluoruro (p/v) por espectrofotometría visible, b) el contenido de Ag (p/v) por espectrofotometría de absorción atómica y c) el pH, y fue medido en un tiempo 0 (t0) y 30 días después de la apertura del frasco (t30). Resultado: En tiempo 0 para G1 lote1/lote2 fue: a) 0,96/1, b) 8,3/7,8 c).11,5/11,3 y G2 lote1/lote2: a) 11,5/9,9, b) 39/39, c) 7/6,9. A los 30 días G1 lote1/lote2: a) 0,85/0,81, b) 7,2/8,2, c) 11,3/11,6 y G2 lote1/lote2: a) 9,35/8,43, b) 38/38, c) 7,6/7,6. La concentración de iones de fluoruro y plata para G1 fue menor en relación a los valores esperados (5,0-5,9% de fluoruro y 24,4- 28.8% plata), sin embargo G2 obtuvo valores más altos. G1 muestra resultados de pH alcalino y G2 neutro. A lo largo de los 30 días, el contenido de fluoruro y plata tiende a disminuir.

Fluoride concentration in teas derived from Camellia Sinensis produced in Argentina.

To evaluate the fluoride concentration and pH of tea derived from Camellia sinensis produced and commercialized in Argentina. Forty-eight varieties of tea (black (n = 16), green (n = 21), red (n = 7), and white (n = 4)) commercialized in the form of leaves or tea bags were acquired. One bag or 2.0 ± 0.05 g of each product was infused for 5 min in 200 mL of distilled boiled water. The F- concentration was determined using an ion-selective electrode and pH was measured using a pH meter. The found fluoride concentrations ranged from 0.1 to 9.7 µg/mL and the pH ranged from 2.7 to 5.1. A higher fluoride concentration was observed in the leaves group (2.75 ± 2.65 µg/mL) compared to tea bags (1.10 ± 0.82 µg/mL) (p < 0.05). Regarding the type of tea, green and black tea were richer in F- than red and white tea. Fluoride and pH appeared not to be correlated (Pearson test). All the studied tea samples presented fluoride concentrations greater than the threshold recommended for drinking water. The pH proved to be low, which could be a risk for erosive tooth wear.