Management of oral manifestations of a child with Heimler Syndrome-2.

Heimler Syndrome 2 (HS-2) is a rare, autosomal recessive mild form of a peroxisomal biogenesis disorder. Though knowledge regarding the disorder is limited, emerging research has found that sensorineural hearing loss, occasional or late onset pigmentation, amelogenesis imperfecta and nail abnormalities are clinical characteristics representative of HS-2.A school-aged male presented to the dental department with a chief complaint of a lack of enamel on multiple teeth. The patient's medical history was significant for patent ductus arteriosus, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and biallelic mutation of the PEX6 gene. The clinical exam revealed dental crowding, hypoplasia, hypo-calcification of multiple teeth and enlarged pulp chambers of maxillary molars. This case report details the clinical findings associated with HS-2, the comprehensive dental treatment to be rendered to the patient, and critical information to paediatric dentists and general dentists so that they can make proper referrals to medical specialties.

Potential Role of BMP7 in Regenerative Dentistry.

In recent years, the field of regenerative dentistry has garnered considerable attention for its focus on restoring and renewing damaged dental tissue. This narrative review explores the potential of bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) and its diverse applications in the regeneration of dental tissue. Recently, significant efforts have been made to understand BMP7's role in advancing regenerative dentistry. Amongst the various signalling molecules investigated for their regenerative capabilities, BMP7 emerges as a pivotal candidate, demonstrating the ability to stimulate the regeneration of dental pulp, periodontal, craniofacial, and alveolar bone tissues for dental implant placement. Whilst BMP7 exhibits significant promise as a therapeutic agent in regenerative dentistry, further research and clinical trials are necessary to fully unlock its potential and optimise its clinical effectiveness in addressing diverse dental and craniofacial conditions. This review highlights BMP7's substantial potential and emphasises the ongoing need for continued research to effectively harness its clinical utility in diverse dental and craniofacial contexts.

In-Vitro Evaluation of Dental Adhesive Bond Strength With Diode Laser Irradiation Before Photopolymerization.

AIM: In-vitro evaluation of shear bond strength, mode of failure, and adaptation of fifth-generation (etch-and-rinse), seventh-generation,and eighth-generation self-etch dental adhesives to human dentin with or without diode-laser irradiation before photopolymerization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-two extracted human maxillary premolar teeth were collected. The buccal and lingual surfaces of teeth were grounded until dentin was exposed. Test areas of 4 mm diameter were created on both surfaces of teeth to standardize the area of treatment. The samples were then randomly allocated into three groups (n = 24): Group 1 Adper Single Bond 2 Etch-and-Rinse; Group 2 Tetric-N-Bond Universal Self-Etch; Group 3 Prime and Bond Universal Self-Etch dental adhesives were used. Buccal surfaces (sub-groups 'a') of all specimens were irradiated with diode laser before photopolymerization of the adhesive material, and palatal surfaces (sub-groups 'b') were directly photopolymerized without prior diode laser irradiation and restored with composite resin. All specimens were thermocycled. Four specimens from each group were then subjected to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis to examine the adaptation of adhesive to dentin, and the remaining 60 specimens were evaluated for shear bond strength tests, modes of failure at the adhesive-dentin interface, and values were recorded, tabulated, and used for data analysis. A one-way ANOVA test and the Student's t-test were used for statistical analysis. A P value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The mean shear bond strength for the groups was: Group 1a (13.96 MPa), 1b (14.95 MPa); Group 2a (10.06 MPa), 2b (10.30 MPa); Group 3a (12.03 MPa), and 3b (10.44 MPa). No statistically significant difference was seen among sub-groups 1a and 3a, 2a and 3a, 2b and 3b as P > 0.05. A significant difference was seen among sub-groups 1b and 3b (P<0.05), 1a and 2a, and 1b and 2b (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Adper Single Bond 2 without diode-laser irradiation before photopolymerization showed the highest shear bond strength, followed by Adper Single Bond 2 irradiated with diode laser before photopolymerization, with the maximum adaptation of dental adhesive to dentin compared to other adhesives used either with or without diode-laser irradiation.

How different attributes are weighted in professionals' decision-making in Pediatric Dentistry-a protocol for guiding discrete choice experiment focused on shortening the evidence-based practice implementation for dental care.

BACKGROUND: Important evidence has been constantly produced and needs to be converted into practice. Professional consumption of such evidence may be a barrier to its implementation. Then, effective implementation of evidence-based interventions in clinical practice leans on the understanding of how professionals value attributes when choosing between options for dental care, permitting to guide this implementation process by maximizing strengthens and minimizing barriers related to that. METHODS: This is part of a broader project investigating the potential of incorporating scientific evidence into clinical practice and public policy recommendations and guidelines, identifying strengths and barriers in such an implementation process. The present research protocol comprises a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) from the Brazilian oral health professionals' perspective, aiming to assess how different factors are associated with professional decision-making in dental care, including the role of scientific evidence. Different choice sets will be developed, either focusing on understanding the role of scientific evidence in the professional decision-making process or on understanding specific attributes associated with different interventions recently tested in randomized clinical trials and available as newly produced scientific evidence to be used in clinical practice. DISCUSSION: Translating research into practice usually requires time and effort. Shortening this process may be useful for faster incorporation into clinical practice and beneficial to the population. Understanding the context and professionals' decision-making preferences is crucial to designing more effective implementation and/or educational initiatives. Ultimately, we expect to design an efficient implementation strategy that overcomes threats and potential opportunities identified during the DCEs, creating a customized structure for dental professionals. TRIAL REGISTRATION: https://osf.io/bhncv .

Color match of single-shade restorations after professional dental bleaching: An in vitro study.

Background: Restorative dentistry aims to reproduce natural tooth shades through resin composites that must be layered to obtain colors, opacities, and translucencies, and therefore, clinical success is operator skill dependent. Aims: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the color shift of single-shade composite restorations before and after dental bleaching. Materials and Methods: Eighty human extracted posterior teeth were restored with four single-shade composites (Omnichroma OM; Clearfil Majesty ES-2 Universal CL; Essentia Universal ES; Venus Diamond One VE) (n = 20 each). Standardized V class cavities were prepared on buccal side. VITA Easyshade V spectrophotometer was used to register VITA color and color coordinates 24 h before (T0), 24 h after (T1), and 1 week after (T2) dental bleaching (Opalescence Boost PF 40%). Color differences (ΔEab) and (ΔWID) were calculated and subjected to statistical analysis. Statistical Analysis: Categorical variables were analyzed using Pearson Chi-square, and data from color coordinates were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's multiple comparison test with Bonferroni correction. Paired t-tests were performed to compare continuous measures between groups and treatment time. Results: Instrumental evaluations revealed statistically significant differences between materials (P < 0.05) with lower values for ES and VE samples followed by CL and OM at T0 and T1. At T2, OM and CL ΔEab values decrease getting closer to ES and VE. Conclusion: Single-shade composites seem to match with the surrounding bleached tooth.

The Scalloped Surgical Guide as an Alternative to Flat Bone Reduction Guide in Full-Arch Implant Restoration.

The goal of this clinical report was to present an alternative to traditional flat bone reduction guides, using a custom-designed 3-dimensional (3D)-printed guide according to the future gingival margin of the planned dentition. A 61-year-old woman with concerns regarding her smile appearance was presented. The initial examination revealed excessive gingival show accompanied by excessive overjet. The dentition was in a failing situation. The proposed treatment plan, relying on the sufficient amount of bone and keratinized tissue, consisted of recontouring of the alveolar ridge and gingiva and placement of 6 implants and an FP-1 prosthesis after extraction of all remaining maxillary teeth. Digital smile design was completed, and a fully digitally guided surgery was planned. This consisted of using 3 surgical guides, starting with the fixation pin guide, continuing with the scalloped hard- and soft-tissue reduction guide, and finally the implant placement template. Following the surgery, the patient received a temporary restoration, and on the 4-month follow-up, a new polymethyl meta-acrylate temporary prosthesis was delivered. The patient's 7-month follow-up is presented in the article. The report of this triple-template guided surgery indicated that digital 3D planning is a considerably predictable tool to properly establish and evaluate future occlusal plane, smile line, and lip support. Scalloped guides seem to be an excellent alternative to conventional bone reduction guides since they require less bone removal and improve patient comfort during surgery.

Trueness evaluation of three intraoral scanners for the recording of maximal intercuspal position.

OBJECTIVES: This clinical study aimed to assess the trueness of three intraoral scanners for the recor-ding of the maximal intercuspal position (MIP) to provide a reference for clinical practice. METHODS: Ten participants with good occlusal relationship and healthy temporomandibular joint were recruited. For the control group, facebow transferring procedures were performed, and bite registrations at the MIP were used to transfer maxillary and mandibular casts to a mechanical articulator, which were then scanned with a laboratory scanner to obtain digital cast data. For the experimental groups, three intraoral scanners (Trios 3, Carestream 3600, and Aoralscan 3) were used to obtain digital casts of the participants at the MIP following the scanning workflows endorsed by the corresponding manufacturers. Subsequently, measurement points were marked on the control group's digital casts at the central incisors, canines, and first molars, and corresponding distances between these points on the maxillary and mandibular casts were measured to calculate the sum of measured distances (DA). Distances between measurement points in the incisor (DI), canine (DC), and first molar (DM) regions were also calculated. The control group's maxillary and mandibular digital casts with the added measurement points were aligned with the experimental group's casts, and DA, DI, DC, and DM values of the aligned control casts were determined. Statistical analysis was performed on DA, DI, DC, and DM obtained from both the control and experimental groups to evaluate the trueness of the three intraoral scanners for the recording of MIP. RESULTS: In the control group, DA, DI, DC, and DM values were (39.58±6.40), (13.64±3.58), (14.91±2.85), and (11.03±1.56) mm. The Trios 3 group had values of (38.99±6.60), (13.42±3.66), (14.55±2.87), and (11.03±1.69) mm. The Carestream 3600 group showed values of (38.57±6.36), (13.56±3.68), (14.45±2.85), and (10.55±1.41) mm, while the Aoralscan 3 group had values of (38.16±5.69), (13.03±3.54), (14.23±2.59), and (10.90±1.54) mm. Analysis of variance revealed no statistically significant differences between the experimental and control groups for overall deviation DA (P=0.96), as well as local deviations DI (P=0.98), DC (P=0.96), and DM (P=0.89). CONCLUSIONS: With standardized scanning protocols, the three intraoral scanners demonstrated comparable trueness to traditional methods in recording MIP, fulfilling clinical requirements.

Time Efficiency, Reliability, and User Satisfaction of the Tooth Memo App for Recording Oral Health Information: Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study.

BACKGROUND: Digitalizing oral health data through an app can help manage the extensive data obtained through oral health surveys. The Tooth Memo app collects data from oral health surveys and personal health information. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the evaluate the time efficiency, reliability, and user satisfaction of the Tooth Memo app. METHODS: There are 2 sections in the Tooth Memo app: oral health survey and personal oral health record. For the oral health survey section of the Tooth Memo app, different data entry methods were compared and user satisfaction was evaluated. Fifth-year dental students had access to the oral health survey section in the Tooth Memo app during their clinical work. The time required for data entry, analysis, and summary of oral health survey data by 3 methods, that is, pen-and-paper (manual), Tooth Memo app on iOS device, and Tooth Memo app on Android device were compared among 3 data recorders who entered patients' information on decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth (DMFT) index and community periodontal index (CPI), which were read aloud from the database of 103 patients by another dental personnel. The interobserver reliability of the 3 different data-entering procedures was evaluated by percent disagreement and kappa statistic values. Laypeople had access to the personal oral health record section of this app, and their satisfaction was evaluated through a Likert scale questionnaire. The satisfaction assessments for both sections of the Tooth Memo app involved the same set of questions on the app design, usage, and overall satisfaction. RESULTS: Of the 103 dental records on DMFT and CPI, 5.2% (177/3399) data points were missing in the manual data entries, but no data on tooth status were missing in the Android and iOS methods. Complete CPI information was provided by all 3 methods. Transferring data from paper to computer took an average of 55 seconds per case. The manual method required 182 minutes more than the iOS or Android methods to clean the missing data and transfer and analyze the tooth status data of 103 patients. The users, that is, 109 fifth-year dental students and 134 laypeople, expressed high satisfaction with using the Tooth Memo app. The overall satisfaction with the oral health survey ranged between 3 and 10, with an average (SD) of 7.86 (1.46). The overall satisfaction with the personal oral health record ranged between 4 and 10, with an average (SD) of 8.09 (1.28). CONCLUSIONS: The Tooth Memo app was more efficacious than manual data entry for collecting data of oral health surveys. Dental personnel as well as general users reported high satisfaction when using this app.

The phenomenological approach in dentistry - a narrative review.

PURPOSE: Phenomenology is a branch of philosophy that focuses on human lived experience. Illness including dental diseases can affect this living experience. Within the dental literature, there is very little reported on the use of phenomenology compared to other healthcare sciences. Hence, the aim was to review the literature and provide an overview of various applications of phenomenology in dental research. METHODS: This study was a narrative review using literature in the last 10 years identified by web-based search on PubMed and Scopus using keywords. A total of 33 articles that were closely related to the field and application in dentistry were included. The methodology, main results, and future research recommendations, if applicable, were extracted and reviewed. RESULTS: The authors in this study had identified several areas such as orofacial pain and pain control research, dental anxiety, dental education, oral healthcare perceptions and access, living with dental diseases and dental treatment experience in which the phenomenological method was used to gain an in-depth understanding of the topic. CONCLUSIONS: There are several advantages of using the phenomenological research method, such as the small sample size needed, the diverse and unique perspective that can be obtained and the ability to improve current understanding, especially from the first-person perspective.

Clinical and ex-vivo effect of LASERs on prevention of early-enamel caries: systematic review & meta-analyses.

To investigate the in vivo and in situ effect of different types of lasers in prevention of enamel demineralization in high caries risk cases (around orthodontic brackets, around restoration and in caries susceptible pits and fissures). PubMed was searched using the following keyword sequence; (Laser therapy OR laser irradiation OR laser application) AND (enamel caries prevention OR enamel demineralization OR enamel remineralization OR early enamel caries OR early-enamel caries OR enamel resistance OR enamel decalcification OR white spot lesions WSLs OR incipient lesion OR enamel decay OR enamel Dissolution OR enamel microhardness) AND (clinical trial OR Randomized clinical trial OR In situ study). The latest literature search was ended by "30 January 2023". PubMed was used as a primary data base for study selection. Scopus, EBSCO, and Google scholar are checked in our study after results of systematic search on PubMed. Only duplicates were found. Two meta-analyses were carried out. The first, clinical meta-analysis on incidence of white spot lesions (WSLs) following CO2 laser irradiation of enamel. The second meta-analysis on ex-vivo/in situ effect of CO2 laser on microhardness of enamel. In each meta-analysis three studies were included. Risk of bias was assessed. The search identified eight studies (four ex-vivo and four clinical trials). Regarding the clinical meta-analysis, the overall standardized mean difference was 0.21 [ 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.15-0.30, p < 0.00001]. This indicates that the incidence of new WSLs in patients who received low power CO2 laser treatment was highly significantly lower than placebo groups. The heterogeneity was considerable (I2 = 71%). In the second meta-analysis, the overall standardized mean difference was 49.55 [ 95% confidence interval (CI): 37.74, 61.37, p < 0.00001]. This indicates that microhardness of enamel receiving low power (0.4-5 W) CO2 laser irradiation is highly significantly lower than control untreated enamel. The heterogeneity was substantial (I2 = 48%). Within the limitations of this study, Low level laser therapy concept with CO2 laser seems to be effective in preventing enamel caries.Prospero registration number: CRD42023437379.

Orthodontics and Endodontics Clinical Practice Correlation: A Narrative Review.

Research on the connection between endodontic therapy and orthodontics is lacking. This overview of the literature synthesizes the findings from the fields of orthodontics and endodontics and explains how they are related. Beginning with the diagnosis, treating the patient at the appropriate time, moving endodontically treated teeth and traumatized teeth, resorbing roots by orthodontic mechanics, and managing traumatized teeth with orthodontic therapy. Multiple electronic databases were utilized including (PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science) to perform manual literature searches. A total of 31 articles were reviewed and summarized in this paper in keywords like "Endodontically Treated Teeth and Orthodontic Treatment," "Endodontically Treated Tooth and Orthodontic Movement," "Orthodontic Treatment in RCT Teeth," "Root Canal Treatment with Orthodontic Movement," "Trauma with Orthodontic Movement," "Orthodontic and Endodontic." Orthodontic treatment of endodontically treated and traumatized teeth is a subject of controversy. The lack of research on the topic makes it a hard decision to make when to treat these teeth. Especially given that both orthodontic and endodontic treatments have multiple consequences on each other's outcomes. Thus, it is crucial for clinicians to understand how they integrate and have a guideline to refer to during decision-making. Successful orthodontic tooth movement could be carried out immediately after endodontic treatment. However, traumatized teeth need a follow-up period before initiating orthodontic movement, which ranges from three months to 12 months depending on the type of trauma and severity. Careful radiographic and clinical follow-up should be done during the healing period. Collaborative teamwork is important between orthodontists and endodontists for the success of treatment, and to achieve satisfactory outcomes.

Resilience and psychological factors among dentistry students who received face-to-face lectures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: This research evaluated whether the relationships between factors of resilience, self-esteem, depression, and anxiety in dental students with changes in teaching and learning methods. We also studied the psychological impact of face-to-face lectures during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: This cross-sectional descriptive study used Google Forms to collect data with the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE), Connor-Davidson Risk Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI and BDI-II). An open-ended question was also asked about important learning difficulties. RESULTS: The analysis revealed very high levels of resilience (30.23 ± 5.84), self-esteem in the normal range (29.08 ± 4.03), minimal depression levels (12.32 ± 8.05), and low anxiety levels (17.20 ± 12.41). There were no significant differences between sociodemographic variables ranges in regard to all psychological questionnaires. No high levels of depression and anxiety were found. CONCLUSIONS: The levels were low compared to other studies in which online teaching was used, which is explained by the fact that the students retained adequate resilience and self-esteem thanks to being able to contact teachers and, above all, their own peers.

Detecting white spot lesions on post-orthodontic oral photographs using deep learning based on the YOLOv5x algorithm: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Deep learning model trained on a large image dataset, can be used to detect and discriminate targets with similar but not identical appearances. The aim of this study is to evaluate the post-training performance of the CNN-based YOLOv5x algorithm in the detection of white spot lesions in post-orthodontic oral photographs using the limited data available and to make a preliminary study for fully automated models that can be clinically integrated in the future. METHODS: A total of 435 images in JPG format were uploaded into the CranioCatch labeling software and labeled white spot lesions. The labeled images were resized to 640 × 320 while maintaining their aspect ratio before model training. The labeled images were randomly divided into three groups (Training:349 images (1589 labels), Validation:43 images (181 labels), Test:43 images (215 labels)). YOLOv5x algorithm was used to perform deep learning. The segmentation performance of the tested model was visualized and analyzed using ROC analysis and a confusion matrix. True Positive (TP), False Positive (FP), and False Negative (FN) values were determined. RESULTS: Among the test group images, there were 133 TPs, 36 FPs, and 82 FNs. The model's performance metrics include precision, recall, and F1 score values of detecting white spot lesions were 0.786, 0.618, and 0.692. The AUC value obtained from the ROC analysis was 0.712. The mAP value obtained from the Precision-Recall curve graph was 0.425. CONCLUSIONS: The model's accuracy and sensitivity in detecting white spot lesions remained lower than expected for practical application, but is a promising and acceptable detection rate compared to previous study. The current study provides a preliminary insight to further improved by increasing the dataset for training, and applying modifications to the deep learning algorithm. CLINICAL REVELANCE: Deep learning systems can help clinicians to distinguish white spot lesions that may be missed during visual inspection.

Micro-CT and histological examination of accessory canals in 34 equine cheek teeth.

Accessory canals and apical deltas have been extensively studied in human dentistry. Their clinical role as a difficult to clean reservoir for bacteria during endodontic treatments has been well described. Many papers describe in detail the pulp anatomy of equine dentition but little attention has been given to their apical ramifications. The goal of this paper is to describe the presence and anatomy of these accessory canals and apical deltas in healthy equine cheek teeth and discuss their possible relevance in the light of equine endodontics. To accomplish this, 15 maxillary and 19 mandibular healthy cheek teeth were collected ranging from Triadan 06 s to 11 s with eruption ages from 4 to 9 years. Their root anatomy was documented in detail based on micro computed tomography images. A subset of 3 teeth also underwent histological examination. Accessory canals were found in all but two teeth examined. Up to 44 accessory canals per tooth have been found with locations ranging from the root furcation down to the apex of the root and with highly variable diameters. Apical deltas in different stages of development were found in 84% of the roots. The presence of accessory canals identified on microCT images could be confirmed using histological examination although some of them were obliterated by reparative dentin. Accessory canals can be found in most equine cheek teeth and add complexity to their endodontic anatomy. This could have important implications for their treatment in case of pulp pathology. In humans, failure to remove bacterial biofilm from such canals has been associated with failure of endodontic treatment. Research on diseased equine teeth is required to gain a better understanding of their clinical relevance in horses.

The Effect of Direct Observation of Procedural Skills on Learning and Satisfaction of Students in Community Dentistry Course.

Introduction: Direct Observation of Practical Skills (DOPS) tests is a valuable method for clinical assessment. This study aimed to implement the DOPS test to assess the procedural skills of community dentistry courses and its effects on mastery learning and satisfaction of professors and students at Tabriz faculty of dentistry in 2021-2022. Methods: In a quasi-experimental study, 60 dentistry students of a class were assigned into two study (n=30) and control (n=30) groups by Permuted block randomization. In the case group, the skills were related to Fluoride therapy, fissure sealant therapy, and health education evaluated by DOPS. In the control group, these skills were evaluated by traditional evaluation methods. Each test was repeated three times. Finally, the satisfaction of students in the case group was assessed by a questionnaire. The chi-square test was used to compare qualitative variables. Repeated measure ANOVA test was used to compare the mean scores in three stages and two groups. P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Data were analyzed using SPSS 16 software. Results: A significant difference in the mean score of Fluoride therapy, pit and fissure sealant therapy, and health education was seen between the case and control groups (P<0.001). Also a significant increase in these skills in the third stage of assessment in the case group was observed (P<0.001). The professors and students' satisfaction was considerably high on the DOPS test. Conclusion: The DOPS method had more impact on Fluoride therapy, pit and fissure sealant therapy, and health education's learning process in dentistry students than the conventional evaluation. The professors and students' satisfaction level was high regarding DOPS. The advantages of the DOPS method are student-centeredness, objectivity, and appropriate feedback.

Nd:YAG water mist laser treatment for giant gestational gingival tumor: A case report.

BACKGROUND: This case of gestational gingival tumor is huge and extremely rare in clinical practice. As the growth location of this gingival tumor is in the upper anterior tooth area, it seriously affects the pregnant woman's speech and food, causing great pain to the patient. The use of Nd:YGA water mist laser to remove the gingival tumor resulted in minimal intraoperative bleeding, minimal adverse reactions, and good postoperative healing, which is worthy of clinical promotion and application. CASE SUMMARY: The patient, a pregnant woman, reported a large lump in her mouth on the first day of postpartum treatment. Based on medical history and clinical examination, the diagnosis was diagnosed as gestational gingival tumor. Postoperative pathological biopsy also confirmed this diagnosis. The use of Nd:YAG water mist laser to remove the tumor resulted in minimal intraoperative bleeding, clear surgical field of view, short surgical time, and good postoperative healing. CONCLUSION: In comparison to traditional surgery, Nd:YAG water mist laser surgery is minimally invasive, minimizes cell damage, reduces bleeding, ensures a clear field of vision, and virtually eliminates postoperative edema, carbonization, and the risk of cross infection. It has unique advantages in oral soft tissue surgery for pregnant patients. Therefore, the clinical application of Nd:YAG water mist laser for the treatment of gestational gingival tumors is an ideal choice.

Chitosan nanoparticle applications in dentistry: a sustainable biopolymer.

The epoch of Nano-biomaterials and their application in the field of medicine and dentistry has been long-lived. The application of nanotechnology is extensively used in diagnosis and treatment aspects of oral diseases. The nanomaterials and its structures are being widely involved in the production of medicines and drugs used for the treatment of oral diseases like periodontitis, oral carcinoma, etc. and helps in maintaining the longevity of oral health. Chitosan is a naturally occurring biopolymer derived from chitin which is seen commonly in arthropods. Chitosan nanoparticles are the latest in the trend of nanoparticles used in dentistry and are becoming the most wanted biopolymer for use toward therapeutic interventions. Literature search has also shown that chitosan nanoparticles have anti-tumor effects. This review highlights the various aspects of chitosan nanoparticles and their implications in dentistry.

Pediatric Oral Health Service Access in Racial/Ethnic Minority Neighborhoods: A Geospatial Analysis in Washington, D.C., USA.

Oral health plays a crucial role in overall well-being. One of the goals set by the US Department of Health and Human Service, Healthy People 2030 is to reducing dental caries in children and adolescents. The study aims to investigate the accessibility of pediatric dental care in neighborhoods with mixed-race and predominantly African American populations in the Washington District of Columbia (DC) area. Our objective is to uncover and highlight the disparities that exist in pediatric dental care within these communities. We have specifically examined the geographic and socio-demographic aspects of pediatric dental care facilities, utilizing geospatial tools such as modeling and mapping, as well as data from the clinical database at Howard University College of Dentistry. The detailed analysis of dental care access revealed significant disparities among various Wards in the region. Specifically, Wards 5, 7, and 8 stood out as having both the highest concentrations of African American residents and the lowest availability of pediatric dentistry providers when compared to the more affluent Wards 1, 2, and 3. Howard University College of Dentistry's pediatric dentistry department played a crucial role in providing dental care services to the community. Over the course of the year 2022, they recorded a total of 3,855 visits from residents of the DC area. Notably, a substantial portion of these visits, specifically 1,566 visits, were from individuals residing in Wards 5, 7 and 8. This data underscores the significant demand for pediatric dental services in these underserved communities and highlights the importance of addressing the disparities in access to care.

A Dive into Delivery of Oral Hygiene Advice Based on the Personalized Oral Hygiene Advice Model.

Oral health's impact on overall well-being highlights the importance of preventive measures through effective oral hygiene practices. Currently, there is growing recognition of the need for customized oral hygiene advice depending on the patient's unique needs and circumstances. This narrative review addresses the gap in understanding the significance of personalized guidance through the proposal of the Personalized Oral Hygiene Advice Model (POHAM) as a comprehensive guide for oral health professionals. This model was developed to adapt to evolving patient demographics and diverse challenges, promoting a patient-centric and effective oral health approach. The POHAM comprises a flow chart of strategies from establishing a good rapport with patients, conducting comprehensive assessment through history-taking, psychosocial and technology proficiency evaluation, tailored education modules, and customized oral care product recommendations until the reassessment. These strategies aim to enhance patient engagement and adherence, as well as act as a guide for oral health professionals to use in the clinical setting before and during the course of oral treatment. Nevertheless, continued research, education, and technological advancements are needed to realize the full potential of personalized oral hygiene strategies, ensuring a transformative and sustainable oral healthcare landscape.

A Minimally Invasive Technique for the Management of Physiologic Gingival Melanin Hyperpigmentation: A Case Series.

An attractive smile enhances an individual's self-confidence. The overall harmony of a smile can be attributed to the interplay of the teeth's shape, color, and position along with the gingival tissue. Gingival pigmentation is observed across all human races, exhibiting variations from one race to another. Typically, gingival hyperpigmentation results from the abnormal buildup of melanin in the gingival tissue, imparting a dark appearance on the gums. Various procedures, collectively known as gingival depigmentation, are employed to address gingival hyperpigmentation. While the initial outcomes of depigmentation procedures are often promising, one common issue associated with them is the potential for re-pigmentation. This article aims to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and patient-reported outcomes of intraepidermal (oral mesotherapy) vitamin C injection for nonsurgical management of physiologic gingival melanin hyperpigmentation.