Prevalence and Variation of Medical Comorbidities in Oral Surgery Patients: A Retrospective Study at Jazan University.

BACKGROUND An aged population is susceptible to chronic diseases, which impacts oral surgery treatment procedures. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the incidence of medical comorbidities in 640 oral surgery patients treated at the College of Dentistry, Jazan University. MATERIAL AND METHODS This single-center observational study investigated medical records of outpatients who visited Jazan University Dental College Hospital in a 1-year period (2018-2019). Patients’ clinical and radiographic archives were screened to obtain relevant data. Categorical and continuous variables were expressed in terms of frequency and mean values, respectively. Differences in variables were statistically analyzed using the chi-square goodness of fit and proportional test, with a probability value P≤0.05 considered significant. RESULTS Analysis of 640 patient records included records of 300 men and 340 women who underwent oral surgery, of whom 176 patients (27.5%), including 97 men and 79 women, had medical comorbidities. The most common comorbidities were endocrine disease (7.03%), cardiovascular disease (6.71%), respiratory disease (4.53%), and hematological disorders (3.43%). Individual diseases that showed higher prevalence were diabetes mellitus (4.68%), hypertension (3.43%), bronchial asthma (2.65%), and anemia (1.4%). Differences by sex were observed in many individual disorders. CONCLUSIONS Outpatients in oral surgery clinics presented a significant variance in the incidence of medical comorbidities, among which diabetes and hypertension were most common. A proper case history is the best preventive measure that helps a surgeon avert medical emergencies and post-surgical complications.

Knowledge and Perception about Health Risks of Cigarette Smoking among Youngsters in Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia.

Context: Cigarette smoking is a global public health concern, particularly in developing countries. Saudi Arabia has a high prevalence of smoking among young individuals, highlighting the need for interventions to address this issue. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the awareness, attitude, smoking rates, and perception of health risks among young individuals in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. The goal was to identify areas for improvement and develop effective strategies to combat smoking and promote healthier lifestyles. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the out-patient department of the College of Dentistry, Jazan University, over a 3-month period. A questionnaire consisting of 15 open-ended questions was administered to eligible patients. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-squared test with a P- value of <0.05. Results: Out of 300 participants, the majority were males, university students, and non-smokers. Among smokers, electronic cigarettes were the most used form. Starting smoking with friends was a common trend. Females smoked fewer times per day compared to males. Participants expressed concerns about the damaging effects of smoking on health. Conclusions: Targeted interventions and educational programs are needed to address smoking behaviors among young individuals in the Jazan region. Gender-specific interventions, family involvement, and promoting school connectedness are crucial in reducing smoking rates. Graphic health warnings on cigarette packs have the potential to improve knowledge and quitting intentions. Continued research and surveillance are necessary to inform evidence-based policies and interventions to combat youth smoking.

Quality of web-based Arabic health information on dental implants: an infodemiological study.

BACKGROUND: In the era of the internet, patients seek health information ahead of getting the required treatment. Dental implant, which is among the most sought dental treatments, is not an exception. Incorrect health related information may lead to harmful deeds, so this study sought to assess the quality of web-based Arabic health information on dental implants. METHODS: The following engines were searched: Google ( http://www.google.com ), Yahoo! ( http://www.yahoo.com ), and Bing ( http://www.bing.com ) on 13 January 2022 for specific Arabic terms on "dental implants". The first 100 consecutive websites from each engine were analyzed for eligibility. The eligible websites were assessed using JAMA benchmarks tool, DISCERN tool, and HONcode. An online tool (including FKGL, SMOG and FRE) was used to assess readability of the websites. RESULTS: There were 65 eligible websites, of which only one (1.5%) was HONcode certified. Only 3 (4.5%) websites attained a high score (> 65 out of 80) based on DISCERN tool: The mean DISCERN score was 41.14 ± 12.64. The mean JAMA score was 1.69 ± 1.13; however, only five (7.6%) met all JAMA criteria. The main shortcomings were attributed to not meeting the "Attribution" (54 [83.1%]) and "Authorship" (43 [66.2%]) criteria. The mean grade level of FKGL score was 7.0 ± 4.5. The majority of the websites (60%) scored less than 7, indicating easy content to understand. The mean grade level of SMOG score required to understand a website's text was 3.2 ± 0.6. Around 91% of the websites had reading ease scores ≥ 80, suggesting that the website's content was easy to read. CONCLUSION: Unfortunately, although readable, most of the easily accessible web-based Arabic health information on dental implants does not meet the recognized quality standards.

Kinesio Taping as a Therapeutic Tool for Masticatory Myofascial Pain Syndrome-An Insight View.

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is thought to stem from masticatory muscle hypersensitivity. Masticatory myofascial pain syndrome (MMPS) is characterized by multiple trigger points (MTrPs), also known as hyperirritable points, in taut bands of affected muscles, regional muscle pain, or referred pain to nearby maxillofacial areas like teeth, masticatory muscles or the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Muscle stiffness, reduced range of motion, muscle weakening without atrophy, and autonomic symptoms may accompany regional discomfort. Multiple treatments have been utilized to reduce trigger points and mandibular function restrictions. As a result of these incapacitating symptoms, MMPS can significantly impair many elements of quality of life. The application of Kinesio tape (KT) is a non-invasive method of treating dormant myofascial trigger points. Utilizing the body's innate capacity for self-repair, this technique entails taping specific regions of the skin. KT alleviates discomfort, decreases swelling and inflammation, enhances or suppresses motor function in the muscles, stimulates proprioception, promotes lymphatic drainage, stimulates blood flow, and expedites tissue recovery. However, studies conducted to assess its effects have frequently yielded contradictory results. To the best of our knowledge, just a few research has looked into the therapeutic effects of KT on MMPS. The purpose of this review is to determine the efficacy of KT as a therapeutic tool for regular treatment or as an adjunct to existing therapy for MMPS based on the evidence presented in this review. To establish KT as a reliable independent treatment option, additional research is necessary to confirm the efficacy of KT techniques and applications, specifically randomized clinical trials.

Dental caries experience among qat chewers in dental college clinics, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

AIMS: There is a considerable debate on the impact of qat chewing on dental and oral health. Thereby, this study aimed at assessing the dental caries among qat chewers (QC) and non-qat chewers (NQC) who attend outpatient dental clinics, College of Dentistry, Jazan, Saudi Arabia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A sample of 100 QC and 100 NQC were recruited amongst those attended dental clinics, college of dentistry, Jazan University during the 2018-2019 academic year. Their dental health was assessed by three pre-calibrated male interns using DMFT index. The Care Index, Restorative Index and Treatment Index were calculated. Comparisons between both subgroups were done using independent t test. Multiple linear regression analyses were further conducted to stand on the independent determinants of the oral health among this population. RESULTS: QC were unintentionally older (36.55 ± 8.74 years) than NQC (32.96 ± 8.49 years; P = 0.004). Fifty-six percent of QC reported brushing their teeth compared to only 35% (P = 0.001). NQC with university and postgraduate educational levels were more than QC. The mean Decayed [5.91 (5.16)] and DMFT [9.15 (5.87)] were higher among QC compared to NQC [3.73 (3.62) and 6.7 (4.58); P = 0.001 and 0.001, respectively]. The other indices were not different between both subgroups. The multiple linear regression revealed that qat chewing and age, individually or together, as independent determinants for the dental decay, missing, DMFT and TI. CONCLUSION: Qat chewing habit has a detrimental impact on dental health. It is associated with higher dental caries and missing teeth, and a lower treatment index.

Knowledge, beliefs, attitude, and practices of E-cigarette use among dental students: A multinational survey.

BACKGROUND: E-cigarette use is a trend worldwide nowadays with mounting evidence on associated morbidities and mortality. Dentists can modify the smoking behaviors of their patients. This study aimed to explore the knowledge, beliefs, attitude, and practice of E-cigarette use among dental students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This multinational, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study recruited undergraduate dental students from 20 dental schools in 11 countries. The outcome variable was current smoking status (non-smoker, E-cigarette user only, tobacco cigarette smoker only, dual user). The explanatory variables were country of residence, sex, age, marital status, and educational level. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to explore the explanatory variables associated with E-cigarette smoking. RESULTS: Of the 5697 study participants, 5156 (90.8%) had heard about E-cigarette, and social media was the most reported source of information for 33.2% of the participants. For the 5676 current users of E-cigarette and/or tobacco smoking, 4.5% use E-cigarette, and 4.6% were dual users. There were significant associations between knowledge and country (P< 0.05), educational level (B = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.21; P = 0.016) and smoking status (P< 0.05). The country of residence (P< 0.05) and smoking status (P< 0.05) were the only statistically significant factors associated with current smoking status. Similarly, there were statistically significant associations between attitude and country (P< 0.05 for one country only compared to the reference) and history of previous E-cigarette exposure (B = -0.52; 95% CI: -0.91, -0.13; P = 0.009). Also, the practice of E-cigarettes was significantly associated with country (P< 0.05 for two countries only compared to the reference) and gender (B = -0.33; 95% CI: -0.52, -0.13; P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: The knowledge of dental students about E-cigarette was unsatisfactory, yet their beliefs and attitudes were acceptable. Topics about E-cigarette should be implemented in the dental curriculum.

Oral health practices and self-reported adverse effects of E-cigarette use among dental students in 11 countries: an online survey.

OBJECTIVES: E-cigarette use has become popular, particularly among the youth. Its use is associated with harmful general and oral health consequences. This survey aimed to assess self-reported oral hygiene practices, oral and general health events, and changes in physiological functions (including physical status, smell, taste, breathing, appetite, etc.) due to E-cigarette use among dental students. METHODS: This online, multicounty survey involved undergraduate dental students from 20 dental schools across 11 different countries. The questionnaire included demographic characteristics, E-cigarette practices, self-reported complaints, and associated physiological changes due to E-cigarette smoking. Data were descriptively presented as frequencies and percentages. A Chi-square test was used to assess the potential associations between the study group and sub-groups with the different factors. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Most respondents reported regular brushing of their teeth, whereas only 70% used additional oral hygiene aids. Reported frequencies of complaints ranged from as low as 3.3% for tongue inflammation to as high as 53.3% for headache, with significant differences between E-cigarette users and non-users. Compared to non-smokers, E-cigarette users reported significantly higher prevalence of dry mouth (33.1% vs. 23.4%; P < 0.001), black tongue (5.9% vs. 2.8%; P = 0.002), and heart palpitation (26.3%% vs. 22.8%; P = 0.001). Although two-thirds of the sample reported no change in their physiological functions, E-cigarette users reported significant improvement in their physiological functions compared to never smokers or tobacco users. CONCLUSION: Dental students showed good oral hygiene practices, but E-cigarette users showed a higher prevalence of health complications.

Oral and Dental Complications of Radiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer: Knowledge of Dental Practitioners in Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVES: Toxicities of the oral soft and hard tissues due to the radiotherapy of the head and neck cancer can potentially lead to interruptions of cancer treatment and/or dose reduction, resulting in poorer outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of dental practitioners in Saudi Arabia about oral and dental assessment for and complications of radiotherapy of head and neck cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An online, already validated, self-administered questionnaire was sent via an online link through WhatsApp groups and other Social Media platforms to reach out to the majority of targeted samples (dental practitioners working in Saudi Arabia). Responses were statistically described and analyzed based on the different grouping factors: gender, specialty, working sector, region of work and experience. RESULTS: There were 370 respondents, 257 (69.5%) of them were males. Most of the respondents were general dental practitioners [144 (38.9%)], The percentages of the correct answers range from as low as 26.2 to as high as 97%. The per cent of correct answers by the respondents in 18 out of 31 questions was above 75%. Females, dental specialists (specifically prosthodontics), working in public sectors and in the central and western regions of Saudi Arabia were associated with higher levels of knowledge. CONCLUSION: Our results show highly variable knowledge of dental practitioners on oral and dental assessment for, and complications and management of radiotherapy to the head and neck area; that knowledge seems to fluctuate considerably with gender, experience, work sector and specialty.
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Novel corona virus disease (COVID-19) awareness among the dental interns, dental auxiliaries and dental specialists in Saudi Arabia: A nationwide study.

BACKGROUND: Dental health care workers (DHCW's) are invariably at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19. The objectives were; to investigate the current knowledge on COVID-19 among the DHCW's; and to conduct quasi-experiment among the DHCW's who were unaware of the disseminated COVID-19 information. METHODS: A nationwide cross-sectional study targeting dental interns, auxiliaries, and specialists with a two-staged cluster sampling technique was performed. A 17-item questionnaire was subjected to reliability and validity tests before being administered. The participants for quasi-experiment were separated from the original sample after their initial response. Chi-square test assessed responses to knowledge statements between the participants. Difference in mean knowledge scores between the categories of DHCW's and sources of COVID-19 information was assessed using ANOVA. Data from the quasi experiment (pre vs post knowledge intervention) was subjected to paired t-test. Percentage of DHCWs providing correct or wrong responses to each knowledge statement at baseline and after 7 days were compared using McNemar test. RESULTS: The overall sample consisted of 706 (N) participants, and the DHCW's with no prior knowledge on COVID-19 (N=206) were part of the quasi experiment. Findings from cross-sectional study revealed that knowledge was significantly (p<0.05) related to the qualification level (interns vs auxiliaries vs specialists). However, the difference in the source of information (WHO/CDC vs Journal articles vs MoH) did not demonstrate any effect. Number of participants with correct responses to knowledge questions had significantly (p<0.05) increased after intervention. Also, the overall mean knowledge score (10.74±2.32 vs 12.47±1.68; p<0.001) had increased significantly after the intervention. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the basic knowledge on COVID-19 among the DHCW's in Saudi Arabia is acceptable. Timely dissemination of information by the Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia had a positive impact on the COVID-19 knowledge score of the DHCW's.