Clinical and radiographic success rate of the root canal filling materials used in primary teeth: A systematic review.

One of the most important factors that determine the success of pulpectomy in primary teeth is the root canal filling material used. This systematic review is an update on the success rates of various materials used for obturation in primary teeth. An electronic search was carried out in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases with the preset inclusion and exclusion criteria. Only randomized or quasi-randomized clinical and controlled trials with a minimum follow-up of 12 months were included for analysis. Nine articles were considered potentially eligible for inclusion in this review. All the included trials had zinc oxide-eugenol (ZOE) cement as a control group. The time span of the included trials extended from 12 to 30 months. Only 2 trials were at low risk of bias. Evidence to support the success rates of obturating materials used in primary teeth is scarce, which necessitates further highquality randomized controlled clinical trials with regard to this issue.

Development of Artificial Intelligence Models for Tooth Numbering and Detection: A Systematic Review.

Dental radiography is widely used in dental practices and offers a valuable resource for the development of AI technology. Consequently, many researchers have been drawn to explore its application in different areas. The current systematic review was undertaken to critically appraise developments and performance of artificial intelligence (AI) models designed for tooth numbering and detection using dento-maxillofacial radiographic images. In order to maintain the integrity of their methodology, the authors of this systematic review followed the diagnostic test accuracy criteria outlined in PRISMA-DTA. Electronic search was done by navigating through various databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Saudi Digital Library for the articles published from 2018 to 2023. Sixteen articles that met the inclusion exclusion criteria were subjected to risk of bias assessment using QUADAS-2 and certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE approach.AI technology has been mainly applied for automated tooth detection and numbering, to detect teeth in CBCT images, to identify dental treatment patterns and approaches. The AI models utilised in the studies included exhibited a highest precision of 99.4% for tooth detection and 98% for tooth numbering. The use of AI as a supplementary diagnostic tool in the field of dental radiology holds great potential.

Evaluation of Papacarie®, Carie-Care™, BRIX3000™ and conventional hand instrumentation for caries removal in primary teeth: a randomized control study.

In the current odontological era, carious lesions are removed while tooth tissue is preserved. Most of these ideals are met by chemomechanical caries removal (CMCR) methods, which are easy and comfortable to use, differentiate and eliminate infected tissues, minimize pressure, vibration and heat, and are cost-effective. This study examines the efficacy of commercially available CMCR agents, namely Papacarie®, Carie-Care™ and BRIX3000™, and a conventional hand instrumentation method for caries removal in deciduous molars in terms of time consumption, ease of application, and pain perception. For this randomized clinical trial, 120 children aged 4 to 9 years were selected and randomly allocated to four groups of 30 patients each. Time consumption, ease of application, and pain perception were evaluated at three intervals: pre-, during- and post-caries removal, using Wong-Baker FACES (WBF) Pain Rating Scale and the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) scale. The results showed that among the compared materials and conventional hand instrumentation technique, Carie-Care™ was statistically found to be the least time-consuming with a p-value of 0.019, have the least pain perception with a p-value of 0.02, and was clinically the best with respect to manipulation and handling. While all three CMCR agents aid in the removal of carious tissue, Carie-Care™ was the most effective based on time consumption, pain perception and simplicity of administration.

Comparative Evaluation of New Needleless Local Anesthetic System (INJEX) and Conventional Syringe Needle Technique during Pulpotomy Treatment: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: The dreaded sensation of pain in the dental chair has a significant impact on children's behavior. This study aimed to compare and contrast the perception of pain and patient behavior between the use of INJEX and the conventional syringe needle technique during pulpotomy among children. METHODS: A randomized clinical trial was designed and conducted among pediatric dentistry patients aged 6-12 years old. Fifty-eight children were divided into two groups, conventional syringe needle and INJEX, using simple randomization method applying the sequentially numbered, opaque, sealed envelope method of allocation concealment. Anesthesia was administered to the groups as local infiltration by a single operator following routine behavior guidance techniques. After 3 min, pulpotomy was performed using the standard protocol. The Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) scale and Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale (WBS) were used to assess the intensity of pain, while the Frankl behavior rating scale (FBRS) was used to assess the children's behavior. RESULTS: During anesthesia, most of the participants in the INJEX group (median = 3) had higher FBRS scores compared with the conventional syringe needle group (median = 2), and the difference was very highly significant (p-value < 0.001). Analyzing the FLACC scores during local anesthesia administration revealed a high statistical significance (p-value < 0.01) across the two groups. A very high statistically significant difference (p-values < 0.001) with higher WBS scores for pain intensity was seen in the group using conventional syringe needles. CONCLUSIONS: INJEX administration significantly reduced the intensity of pain experienced by the children and helped maintain a positive attitude among them during pulpotomy. It provided a positive and comfortable experience for both the child and the practitioner. Therefore, it can serve as an excellent alternative to conventional needle anesthesia.

Comparative evaluation of remaining dentin thickness, canal centering ability and apical deformity between ProFit S3 and Protaper gold - A nano CT study.

Purpose: For the root canal treatment to be successful, the root canal system must be cleaned and shaped, and must be gradually widened from the apical to the coronal region in order to preserve dentin thickness. ProFit S3 (Profit Dental, India) patented rotary file with variable taper design preserves dentin. The study employs ultra-high-resolution nano-computed tomography to assess the volumetric changes of two new rotary files in permanent mandibular premolars. Materials and methods: Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, this in-vitro investigation used extracted premolars. Before the pre-operative scan, samples were made and the working length was determined using a high-precision nano-CT (SkyScan 2214, Bruker, Kontich, Belgium). A single skilled pediatric dentist used ProFit S3 (Profit Dental, India) and Protaper Gold (PTG; Dentsply, Tulsa Dental Specialties, Tulsa, OK, USA) to prepare the canals. Post-op scans were similar to pre-ops. For 3D root canal visualization and analysis, NRecon software was used to rebuild images. Results: Profit S3 has a mean value of 0.65500 and Protaper gold 1.38800, indicating a significant range. Protaper gold followed Profit S3 in canal volume differential. The two rotating file systems differed significantly (p 0.05). ProFit S3 maintained mesiodistal and buccolingual dentin thickness at 4 mm, 8 mm, and 12 mm, followed by Protaper Gold. Conclusions: ProFit S3 exhibited the lowest mean canal volume difference compared to Protaper gold. Unlike Protaper Gold, ProFit S3 offers a variable taper design that preserves root canal anatomy, peri cervical dentin, and dentin thickness.

Comparative Evaluation of Push-out Bond Strength of Conventional Mineral Trioxide Aggregate, Biodentine, and Two Novel Antibacterial-enhanced Mineral Trioxide Aggregates.

AIM: To evaluate the push-out bond strength of two newly modified mineral trioxide aggregates (MTAs) with conventional MTA and biodentine. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Material preparation: Two commercially available bioactive bioceramics: Group I: Mineral trioxide aggregate; Group II: Biodentine; and two newly formulated modified MTAs: Group III: Doxycycline incorporated MTA formulation; Group IV: Metronidazole incorporated MTA formulation was used in the present study. All the test materials were then carried using a plastic instrument to the desired experimental design. Teeth sample preparation: A total of 120 teeth samples were collected and divided into four groups of test materials with 30 teeth samples per group. Single-rooted permanent teeth, that is, incisors were collected and stored in saline until the study was performed. Sectioning of the teeth into 2.0 ± 0.05-mm thick slices was performed perpendicular to the long axis of the tooth. The canal space was instrumented using Gates Glidden burs to achieve a diameter of 1.5 mm. All four prepared materials were mixed and placed in the lumen of the slices and placed in an incubator at 37°C for 72 hours. Push-out test and bond failure pattern evaluation: The push-out test was performed using a universal testing machine. The slices were examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) at 40× magnification to determine the nature of bond failure. All the collected data were recorded and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: The mean push-out bond strength was found to be the highest for group II (37.38 ± 1.94 MPa) followed by group III (28.04 ± 2.22 MPa) and group IV (27.83 ± 1.34 MPa). The lowest mean push-out bond strength was noticed with group I (22.89 ± 2.49 MPa). This difference was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.000). Group I samples had the predominantly adhesive type of failure (86.4%), while group II samples showed the cohesive type of failure (94.2%). Both the modified MTAs (groups III and IV) primarily showed mixed types of failures. CONCLUSION: Both the antibacterial-enhanced MTAs had better pushout bond strength compared to conventional MTA but did not outperform biodentine. Hence, it could serve as a substitute for conventional MTA due to its augmented physical properties. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Carious pulp exposure and nonvital open apices pose a critical challenge to pediatric dental practitioners. In such circumstances, maintaining the vitality of pulp and faster healing would help in a better prognosis. Novel MTAs without any cytotoxic components, and enhanced antibacterial contents with augmented physical properties can help in treating such clinical conditions. How to cite this article: Merlin ARS, Ravindran V, Jeevanandan G, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Push-out Bond Strength of Conventional Mineral Trioxide Aggregate, Biodentine, and Two Novel Antibacterial-enhanced Mineral Trioxide Aggregates. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(2):168-173.

Evaluation of Risk Factors associated with Caries Development after Full-mouth Rehabilitation for Early Childhood Caries Under General Anesthesia.

AIM: To evaluate the risk factors associated with caries development after full-mouth rehabilitation for early childhood caries (ECC) under general anesthesia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 100 children diagnosed with ECC requiring full-mouth rehabilitation under general anesthesia were recruited for the study. At baseline, caries status, plaque index, Streptococcus mutans count, and Lactobacillus count were evaluated. The risk assessment for caries was evaluated using a cariogram. Children were recalled after 12 months for evaluation. All children returned for the recall and data was recorded at the recall visit. Children were grouped into caries-free or caries recurrent based on the absence or presence of caries. Chi-square tests and student's t-test were used for statistical analysis using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS), version 23. RESULTS: All 100 children returned for follow-up. 76% of the children developed new carious lesions in a period of 1 year. A statistically significant association between caries recurrence and S. mutans count and caries risk assessment (CRA) score was found (p < 0.001). No significant associations were seen between parental education levels and the oral health practices of the child. CONCLUSION: Children treated under full-mouth rehabilitation for ECC under general anesthesia are at risk for developing new carious lesions after treatment. New carious lesions are strongly correlated with the presence of S. mutans, and high cariographic risk scores serve as an indication of future caries. Early childhood caries may be avoided if children are more diligent in practicing good dental hygiene. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Relapse of caries after full-mouth rehabilitation under general anesthesia can affect the quality of life of children. Preventive measures should be initiated and reinforced to prevent the occurrence of new carious lesions after full-mouth rehabilitation. How to cite this article: Mathew MG, Jeevanandan G, Maganur PC, et al. Evaluation of Risk Factors associated with Caries Development after Full-mouth Rehabilitation for Early Childhood Caries Under General Anesthesia. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(1):85-91.

Comparative evaluation of volumetric changes between two pediatric rotary files (Kedo-S plus, Kedo-SG blue) and manual files (hand K-files) during canal preparation of primary mandibular molars: an in-vitro nano-CT analysis.

Pediatric endodontics has become popular due to advancements in cleaning, shaping and irrigation systems, resulting in faster and effective removal of infected pulp, saving time, and creating a pathogen-free environment. The patented rotary file system, Kedo-S, designed for primary teeth, introduced a single file generation for efficient pulp therapy. However, there are currently no studies assessing canal preparation in primary mandibular molars using nano-CT (computed Tomography). To evaluate the volumetric changes of two recently introduced pediatric rotary file systems in comparison with conventional hand file systems in primary mandibular molar using an ultra-high resolution nano-CT. This in-vitro study was performed in extracted primary mandibular molar based on certain inclusion and exclusion criteria. Samples were prepared and working length was determined before the pre-operative scan using a high resolution nano-CT device (SkyScan 2214, Bruker, Kontich, Belgium). A single well-experienced pediatric dentist prepared the canals using three file systems: Kedo-S plus, Kedo-SG blue and Hand K-files. A post-operative scan was performed similar to pre-operative scan. Image reconstruction was performed with NRecon software for 3D volumetric visualization and analysis of the root canals. Kedo-SG blue file systems had the highest mean difference in the canal volume (8.85%). Hand K-files had the least difference at (1.24%) of canal volume. Kedo-S plus file system had a mean canal volume difference (6.14%) which is closer to hand K-files. Rotary file systems resulted in a significant enlargement of canals compared to hand files.

Knowledge and Attitude of Undergraduate Students and Interns toward Stem Cells and Their Implications in Dentistry: A Cross-sectional Study.

AIM: The primary ideology of this research was to evaluate both the knowledge and attitude of undergraduate students and interns regarding stem cells and their use in dentistry. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional observatory study was conducted among 310 dental students of Jazan University by making use of a self-explanatory questionnaire, containing a set of 25 questions and was sent as e-mail through Google e-forms. RESULTS: There was a good response rate of around 81.2%, of which 80.16% were aware of the fact that stem cells are unspecialized types of cells that come with the potential to turn into any cell type. Almost 65.08% of the participants considered the possibility to continue root formation post-trauma as the fundamental use of stem cells, and a majority (71.43%) of the participants showed great interest in garnering more knowledge and training in the area of stem cells. About 50% of the participants showed strong opposition to the concept of embryonic stem cells as these are basically fetched from an aborted fetus or from an embryo. There was a major section of the participants (79.76%) who were even keen on organizing more programs to create public awareness regarding stem cells. Mean knowledge and attitude scores among the participants were reported to be 7.57 ± 3.10 and 36.04 ± 6.51 respectively. CONCLUSION: Overall, the level of knowledge and attitude of dental students and interns at Jazan University towards stem cells and their implications in dentistry can be interpreted as adequate. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Advanced training and awareness campaigns on stem cells and dentistry would improve their knowledge and attitude.

Knowledge and Role of Paediatricians/Paediatric Residents in Infant Oral Healthcare and Dental Home across Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The prevention of oral diseases in children is highly achievable through providing early exposure to oral healthcare habits, which would make children more receptive towards dental services. A cross-sectional study used a structured, self-explanatory questionnaire to evaluate the knowledge and role of 190 paediatricians and paediatric residents towards infant oral healthcare and the dental home across Saudi Arabia. The authors sent a link to the questionnaire, comprising 36 questions, by email, as a Google e-form. The response rate obtained was 87.36%. A major proportion (95.8%) of the respondents considered that paediatricians play an important role in promoting oral health. Around 45.8% of the practitioners recommended tooth brushing after the eruption of the first tooth. About 38% of the practitioners were unaware of the children's first dental visit. The majority (95.2%) agreed that there should be an increased awareness regarding home dental habits. Most of them (78.3%) examined the oral cavity for dental problems as a part of routine childcare, and the majority (75.3%) admitted that they did not evaluate fluoride needs. A statistically significant higher mean knowledge score was observed for practitioners with more than 30 years of experience (9.35 ± 2.29), and there was a significant positive correlation (r = 0.486) between the knowledge score and mean score for the role of paediatric practitioners. Overall, the study concluded that the knowledge of paediatricians and paediatric residents in SA towards infant oral healthcare and the dental home was inadequate, and their role in maintaining oral health was found to be moderately satisfactory.

Evaluation of Change in Quality of Life, Dental Fear and Dental Anxiety in Young Children Following Full-mouth Dental Rehabilitation under General Anesthesia for Early Childhood Caries.

AIM: To evaluate the change in quality of life, dental fear, and dental anxiety in young children following full-mouth dental rehabilitation under general anesthesia for early childhood caries. MATERIALS AND METHODS: About 200 children who were diagnosed with early childhood caries requiring full-mouth rehabilitation under general anesthesia were recruited after obtaining parental consent. Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) was measured using the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS). Dental fear was evaluated using Children's Fear Survey Schedule-Dental Subscale and dental anxiety was evaluated using the Facial Image Scale. Scores were taken on the day of intervention, and after 14 days when the child reported for posttreatment follow-up. RESULTS: All 200 participants returned for a follow-up visit after 2 weeks. The child impact section was reduced from 15.7 ± 4.1 to 7.7 ± 1.9 after treatment. The family impact section was reduced from 9.6 ± 2.7 to 3.5 ± 2.6 after treatment. A statistically significant difference was seen in both sections when pre-and posttreatment values were compared (p < 0.001). The total ECOHIS showed statistically significant improvement as the pretreatment score of 21.6 ± 9.5 reduced to 11.2 ± 4.2 showing 51.9% improvement in OHRQoL after full-mouth rehabilitation under general anesthesia was done (p < 0.001). Dental fear and anxiety among the participants showed a statistically significant reduction after treatment was done and most participants were found to be less fearful of doctors, dentists, and injections after treatment. CONCLUSION: Full-mouth rehabilitation was found to be a reliable treatment modality to improve the OHRQoL of children suffering from early childhood caries. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Significant improvement was seen in the OHRQoL within 2 weeks after treatment and most participants were found to be less anxious and fearful toward dentists and dental treatment. Comprehensive dental rehabilitation under general anesthesia has been proven to be an effective treatment modality for early childhood caries and a productive treatment technique to reduce dental fear and anxiety.

A New Criteria to Assess Quality of Obturation in Primary Teeth: KEDOO Classification.

Aim: The success of the pulpectomy depends on adequate access, cleaning, shaping, and good-quality obturation. Evaluating the quality of obturation is the major tool that determines the success of the procedure. The present study aimed to assess the quality of obturation in all the canals of primary teeth and suggest a new classification. Materials and methods: A total of 1,000 radiographs of the pulpectomy procedure performed in primary molars were evaluated. The quality of obturation was assessed for each canal using the criteria given by Coll and Sandrian. The prevalence of each obturation criterion in every canal was represented in the form of a percentage. Results: It was observed that among the mandibular primary molars, most of the mesial canals were underfilled, and in the distal canal, most of the canals were overfilled. Among the maxillary primary molars, most of the mesial canals were overfilled, more distal canals were underfilled, and with respect to palatal canals, optimal obturation was seen. Conclusion: The pitfalls of the previous classification were revised, and a new classification for assessing the quality of obturation was proposed, which is arch, segment, and canal specific. Clinical significance: The new classification will give a more precise assessment for the evaluation of various techniques and materials used for pulpectomy in primary teeth. How to cite this article: Jeevanandan G, Govindaraju L, Kotian N, et al. A New Criteria to Assess Quality of Obturation in Primary Teeth: KEDOO Classification. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(2):376-379.

Application and Performance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Oral Cancer Diagnosis and Prediction Using Histopathological Images: A Systematic Review.

Oral cancer (OC) is one of the most common forms of head and neck cancer and continues to have the lowest survival rates worldwide, even with advancements in research and therapy. The prognosis of OC has not significantly improved in recent years, presenting a persistent challenge in the biomedical field. In the field of oncology, artificial intelligence (AI) has seen rapid development, with notable successes being reported in recent times. This systematic review aimed to critically appraise the available evidence regarding the utilization of AI in the diagnosis, classification, and prediction of oral cancer (OC) using histopathological images. An electronic search of several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Saudi Digital Library, was conducted for articles published between January 2000 and January 2023. Nineteen articles that met the inclusion criteria were then subjected to critical analysis utilizing QUADAS-2, and the certainty of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. AI models have been widely applied in diagnosing oral cancer, differentiating normal and malignant regions, predicting the survival of OC patients, and grading OC. The AI models used in these studies displayed an accuracy in a range from 89.47% to 100%, sensitivity from 97.76% to 99.26%, and specificity ranging from 92% to 99.42%. The models' abilities to diagnose, classify, and predict the occurrence of OC outperform existing clinical approaches. This demonstrates the potential for AI to deliver a superior level of precision and accuracy, helping pathologists significantly improve their diagnostic outcomes and reduce the probability of errors. Considering these advantages, regulatory bodies and policymakers should expedite the process of approval and marketing of these products for application in clinical scenarios.

Comparative Evaluation of Extrusion of Apical Debris in Primary Maxillary Anterior Teeth Using Two Different Rotary Systems and Hand Files: An In Vitro Study.

Successful outcome of pulp therapy depends on good chemomechanical preparation of the canals. This is completed with the help of various upcoming rotary and hand files. However, during this preparation, there might be an apical extrusion of the debris which may result in postoperative complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the number of debris apically extruded during canal preparation using two different pediatric rotary file systems and conventional hand file systems in primary teeth. 60 primary maxillary central incisors that were extracted due to trauma or untreated dental caries with no signs of resorption were taken. Canal preparation was executed using three different file systems: Group A: Group A hand K file system, Group B Kedo S Plus, Group C Kedo SG Blue. For each of these files using the Myers and Montgomery model, the pre- and post-weight of the eppendorf tube was assessed to quantify the number of apical debris. The maximum extrusion of apical debris was noticed with the Hand K-file system. The least debris was noticed in the Kedo S Plus file system. Statistical analysis revealed that there were highly significant differences in apical extrusion and debris when comparing hand files and rotary files and also between the two rotary files used. Apical debris collection is an unavoidable outcome of canal instrumentation. Among the file systems compared, rotary files had lesser extrusion when compared to hand files. Among the rotary files, Kedo S plus showed normal extrusion compared to SG Blue.

Artificial Intelligence Its Uses and Application in Pediatric Dentistry: A Review.

In the global epidemic era, oral problems significantly impact a major population of children. The key to a child's optimal health is early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of these disorders. In recent years, the field of artificial intelligence (AI) has seen tremendous pace and progress. As a result, AI's infiltration is witnessed even in those areas that were traditionally thought to be best left to human specialists. The ultimate ability to improve patient care and make precise diagnoses of illnesses has revolutionized the world of healthcare. In the field of dentistry, the competence to execute treatment measures while still providing appropriate patient behavior counseling is in high demand, particularly in the field of pediatric dental care. As a result, we decided to conduct this review specifically to examine the applications of AI models in pediatric dentistry. A comprehensive search of the subjects was done using a wide range of databases to look for studies that have been published in peer-reviewed journals from its inception until 31 December 2022. After the application of the criteria, only 25 of the 351 articles were taken into consideration for this review. According to the literature, AI is frequently used in pediatric dentistry for the purpose of making an accurate diagnosis and assisting clinicians, dentists, and pediatric dentists in clinical decision making, developing preventive strategies, and establishing an appropriate treatment plan.

Effect of Various Irrigant Activation Methods and Its Penetration in the Apical Third of Root Canal-In Vitro Study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the irrigant penetration using iohexol dye with four irrigation techniques. METHODOLOGY: Single-rooted premolars were recently extracted and preserved in physiological saline solution. All the samples were standardized to 16 mm. Standard endodontic access was prepared using endoaccess bur (Dentsply Maillefer, Switzerland). The initial patency was established using #10 k file (Mani, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan) to the working length. The cleaning and shaping were performed using the file system ProFit S3 in the following sequence: P0 (orifice enlarger), PF1 (yellow), PF2 (red) #25, and PF3 (blue) #30. The samples were randomly allocated in concealed opaque envelopes into four groups. This was performed by a trained dentist. Fifteen samples were allocated to one group. The groups were divided as follows: Group A-conventional needle (CN), Group B-side-vented needle (SVN), Group C-manual dynamic agitation (MDA), and Group D-EndoActivator (EA). The radiopaque dye irrigant agitation/activation was performed by one operator to prevent operator bias. Following irrigation using the different techniques, digital radiographs were taken, and the measurement was taken from the apical foramen to the point where the dye had penetrated apically for each tooth and the data were entered into an Excel sheet for all the four groups. RESULTS: Comparing the four groups, there was a statistically significant difference among the four groups (p < 0.05), thus, favoring the alternate hypothesis. EA had resulted in better penetration of the irrigant compared with the other three groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: It was evident that irrigant penetration was best achieved with the use of an EA followed by MDA, SVNs, and then the CN when the preparation was done till size 30 (PF3 #30) using ProFit S3 rotary file system.

Knowledge and Experiences of Undergraduate Dental Students and Interns toward Research: A Cross-sectional Study.

Aim: To evaluate the knowledge and experiences of undergraduate dental students and interns toward research at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted by using a self-explanatory questionnaire consisting of 14 questions and was mailed as Google e-forms. Results: The response rate for the survey was 72.1%. A vast majority (97.5%) considered conducting research very important and agreed that research learning constituted a part of their dental curriculum. A significant fraction of the population (73.8%) did not conduct any research during their undergraduate course, and the majority (75.5%) agreed that they enjoyed doing research. Disappointingly, a very small fraction of the study participants (8.9%) had knowledge about scientific manuscript writing. The majority (89.6%) interestingly stated that they would undertake research in the future. Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrated that dental students at the University of Jazan exhibited a high level of interest and knowledge in the realm of research. Despite the recognition of research's significance in education, the study revealed that a relatively small proportion of students actually engaged in research activities. To foster a favorable attitude toward scientific research among undergraduate students, it is crucial to cultivate critical thinking and reasoning skills. How to cite this article: Vishwanathaiah S, Maganur PC, Alali MA, et al. Knowledge and Experiences of Undergraduate Dental Students and Interns toward Research: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(6):824-828.

Age Determination in Children Using Camirere's Indian Specific Formula: A Radiographic Study Using Orthopantomographs.

AIM: Determination of age is a pivotal part of forensic dentistry. Since many dental age determination methods are invasive, Cameriere introduced a radiographic method where age evaluation was carried out using an orthopantomogram (OPG). An adaptation of the same formula was later formulated by Rai et al. for the Indian population. The aim of the study was to assess the age and to dictate the efficiency of the Indian version of Cameriere's formula in the Chennai subpopulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study consisted of radiographs belonging to 50 individuals with an age range of 5-15 years. Radiographs were taken using the OPG and the soft copies obtained were analyzed. The variables such as seven left and right permanent mandibular teeth and the number of teeth with closed apical, and with open apical, ends of roots were examined and measured. The obtained data, after substituting in the formula was statistically analyzed using paired and unpaired t-test and Pearson's correlation coefficient test. RESULTS: On comparing dental age and chronological age, statistically significant results were obtained on both sides of the radiograph. Between genders, both sides of the radiograph showed non-significant results. On correlating the sides, the left side showed greater accuracy in age determination compared to the right side of the OPG. CONCLUSION: Age estimation using Indian-specified formula provides a near good estimate and hence can be a reliable method to measure the chronological age of the participants. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The Indian version of the Cameriere's formula can be used as a rational tool to assess the age of young children and adolescents.

Does Social Media have any Influence during the COVID-19 Pandemic? An Update.

AIM: The study aimed to explore the role, impact, and influence of social media on the population during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19)pandemic. BACKGROUND: During pandemics, communication is an important factor to disseminate the information, create awareness and provide timely updates from authorized personnel to the masses. Social media progressed to function as a mediator of transmission of information between the government and authorities and the public during the COVID-19. REVIEW RESULTS: Though several strengths were observed yet liabilities did not go unnoticed regarding the role essayed by social media during this pandemic period. When used responsibly, these technologies can aid in the rapid dissemination of crucial facts, important scientific discoveries, and information regarding diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up as well as comparing different strategies across the world. It is recommended to follow certain fundamental standards while exchanging information on social media networks during the COVID-19 era in order to utilize these technologies responsibly and effectively. CONCLUSION: In this research, we have made an attempt to synthesize the vital facts regarding the impact, benefits, and drawbacks of using social media during COVID-19. Eventually, the decision of evaluation, acceptance, and denial of the information received rests with the individual. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Social media use has become intangible with health care. Instead of venturing out the negative effects, we need to focus on utilizing social media for the betterment of the public and to the advantage of the public to increase awareness levels, spread knowledge, and cooperate to tap the benefits to the maximum extent possible to prevent the disease spread.

Knowledge and Practice of Rotary Instrumentation in Primary Teeth among Saudi Arabian Dentists: A Cross-sectional Study.

Background: Making use of rotary instruments for doing pulpectomies in the primary teeth is one of the most developing areas in the field of pedodontics. The primary aim of this study was to assess the understanding and the ease with which Saudi Arabian dentists could use rotary instrumentation in primary teeth. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among dentists over 3 months. A structured self-explanatory questionnaire was given, and responses were obtained from the dental practitioners. Results: The response rate for the survey was 92.45%. Only 21.4% of them were using rotary instruments, and ProTaper was most commonly used. The most common limitation factors that obstructed its usage included the taper and length of the existing files. On assessing the need for using an exclusive rotary file for performing root canal preparation in primary teeth, there was a significant difference observed statistically. The general thought that floated among most dental practitioners (p value = 0.01) and specialists who had 11-15 years of experience was that an exclusive rotary file is the need of the hour. Conclusion: There is an absolute need for more education programs and workshops in the country to increase the knowledge and awareness of dental practitioners, and also to give hands-on experience regarding rotary instrumentation in primary teeth. In kids, it seems appropriate to use kid-specific rotary files that make it comfortable for children too during the procedure. How to cite this article: Alowi WA, Maganur PC, Manoharan V, et al. Knowledge and Practice of Rotary Instrumentation in Primary Teeth among Saudi Arabian Dentists: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(S-1):S97-S102.