To Evaluate and Compare the Antimicrobial Efficacy of Various Disinfecting Agents on K-file against Gram-positive and Gram-negative Bacteria of Endodontic Origin: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction: Microorganisms induce a variety of infections and diseases in the human body and are largely ubiquitous in the nature of the contamination, directly, or indirectly leading to transmission of infectious agents. A substantial number of bacterial species have been identified as inhabitants of the oral cavity. Infection control is a major topic of concern in medical and dental healthcare settings. Aim: To evaluate the disinfecting ability of various herbal extracts on sterilization of endodontic files against endodontic pathogens. Materials and methods: The study was conducted in three phases to evaluate the disinfecting ability of tea tree, neem, eucalyptus, and ajwain oil on sterilization of endodontic files against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus ß-hemolyticus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Peptostreptococcus species, and Bacteroides fragilis. Results: Colony-forming units (CFU) of all tested bacteria among group I (tea tree oil) were found to be significantly lower than that among group II (ajwain oil), group III (eucalyptus oil), and group IV (neem oil), respectively. Conclusion: The antimicrobial activity among all the essential oils was found to be maximum for tea tree oil, followed in descending order by ajwain, eucalyptus, and neem oils. Hence, the incorporation of these herbs in dental practice will prove to be a valuable adjunct in dental treatment. Clinical significance: Herbs have also been long used in various endodontic medicaments and dressings with obtundent and soothing effects and exhibited a great microbial inhibition potential against the tested endodontic pathogens. How to cite this article: Opi K, Dhinsa K, Tripathi AM, et al. To Evaluate and Compare the Antimicrobial Efficacy of Various Disinfecting Agents on K-file against Gram-positive and Gram-negative Bacteria of Endodontic Origin: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(S-2):S161-S167.

Evaluation of Indirect Pulp Capping Using MTA, Light-cured Calcium Silicate, and Propolis in Primary Teeth: A Clinical and Radiographic Study Using VistaScan.

Aims: Clinical and radiographic evaluation of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), TheraCal LC, and propolis when used as an indirect pulp capping agent in primary teeth over a period of 6 months. Materials and methods: A total of 42 primary molar teeth from children aged 4-10 years were chosen for the study. The teeth were divided equally into three groups (group I: MTA, group II: light cured calcium silicate, and group III: propolis). The teeth were followed up clinically and radiographically at 3 and 6 months. The teeth that showed successful treatment outcomes clinically and radiographically were evaluated for the amount of dentin bridge formed at the end of 3 and 6 months, which was measured using CorelDRAW software. The data obtained was analyzed statistically using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. Results: The mean change in dentin thickness from baseline to 3 months in group II was found to be the highest, followed by groups I and III. The mean change in dentin thickness from 3 months to 6 months was highest in group I, followed by groups III and II. The mean change in dentin thickness from baseline to 6 months in group II was found to be significantly higher than that of group I, followed by group III. Conclusion: Clinically and radiographically, all three materials showed favorable outcomes when used as an indirect pulp capping material with significant reparative dentin formation. The highest amount of dentin deposition was recorded with light-cured calcium silicate, followed by MTA and propolis, respectively. How to cite this article: Saikia D, Yadav G, Saha S, et al. Evaluation of Indirect Pulp Capping Using MTA, Light-cured Calcium Silicate, and Propolis in Primary Teeth: A Clinical and Radiographic Study Using VistaScan. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(5):686-691.

A Cephalometric Study of Sella Turcica: Correlation of Its Size with Different Skeletal Malocclusions.

Introduction: The present study was done to determine the size of the sella turcica in different skeletal type subjects and to evaluate if any significant difference exists between them, which could be the basis for early diagnosis. Materials and methods: A total of 60 lateral cephalograms of patients above 15 years of age were selected and distributed according to skeletal malocclusion into class I (n = 20), class II (n = 20), and 20 class III (n = 20). Syndromic patients (physically/mentally/both) or patients with major illnesses were not included. Two linear measurements of the sella turcica, that is, length and depth in mid-sagittal plane, were obtained in accordance with Silverman and Kisling method. Unpaired t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were performed. Results: The mean length of sella turcica in class I, class II, and class III subjects was 3.81, 3.37, and 3.9, respectively. Similarly, the mean depth of sella turcica in class I, class II, and class III subjects was 7.6, 6.83, and 9.075, respectively. Conclusion: No significant difference in length of the sella turcica could be found between different skeletal types. Maximum depth of sella turcica was found to be in subjects with class III and minimum with class II skeletal types. Clinical significance: The linear dimensions of sella turcica can be used to approximate the pituitary gland size. The pedodontist should be familiar with different morphologies of the sella turcica to differentiate normal from abnormal appearance so that treatment can be diagnosed and treated early. How to cite this article: Grover N, Khan DUZ, Bhagchandani J, et al. A Cephalometric Study of Sella Turcica: Correlation of Its Size with Different Skeletal Malocclusions. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(S-3):S229-S232.

To Analyze the Efficacy of Platelet-rich Plasma in Contrast to Platelet-rich Fibrin along with Synthetic Nanocrystalline Hydroxyapatite and ß-tricalcium Phosphate Bone Graft in Regeneration of Bony Defects in Children.

Aim: To analyze the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in contrast to platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) along with synthetic nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HA) and ß-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP) bone graft in the regeneration of bone defects in children. Materials and methods: A total of 20 children in whom bone defect was present were selected and divided into two groups of 10. In group I, the bone defect was filled with PRP + nanocrystalline HA with ß-TCP and group II, with PRF + nanocrystalline HA with ß-TCP. Radiographs using VistaScan with a mesh grid were taken to analyze the bone density and bone regeneration. Clinical evaluation with respect to the color of overlying mucosa, sinus formation, pus discharge, and seepage of bone graft was done. The parameters used to analyze the radiographs included gray scale analysis, residual bone defect calculation in pixels both performed in CorelDraw version 13 software, and radiopaque scoring scale. Results: The mean bone defect density measured using gray scale was higher in the PRF than PRP group. The percentage of bone formation analyzed using residual bone defect calculation and mean radiopaque score revealed that the PRF group showed better outcomes compared to the PRP group. Conclusion: Both PRP and PRF are equally effective in promoting bone regeneration with PRF showing slight superiority over PRP. How to cite this article: Koksi Sangma Shadap NM, Yadav G, Saha S, et al. To Analyze the Efficacy of Platelet-rich Plasma in Contrast to Platelet-rich Fibrin along with Synthetic Nanocrystalline Hydroxyapatite and ß-tricalcium Phosphate Bone Graft in Regeneration of Bony Defects in Children. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(6):842-849.

Comparison of craniofacial morphology characteristics along with dental caries status and salivary properties of operated cleft lip and palate patients with noncleft patients.

Background: Cleft lip and palate patients undergo many primary reconstructive surgical procedures which could lead to various changes in the facial morphology with growth. The most common diagnosis is unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) and such patients are more prone to dental caries. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the lateral cephalometric landmarks, dental caries status, and salivary properties of surgically repaired UCLP children aged 6-15 years with lateral cephalometric landmarks, dental caries status, and salivary properties of noncleft children of the same age group. Materials and Methods: Twelve noncleft patients and 12 surgically repaired UCLP patients were chosen, and cephalometric analysis, salivary analysis, and dental caries status were recorded for both the groups. The data were then compared for both the groups. Statistical Analysis: It was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. The level of statistical significance was set at 0.05. Results: In surgical repair ULCP children, their was increased prevalance of dental caries along with decrease level of salivary calcium, Phosphorus,flow rate. Also, their was increased level of alkaline phosphatase, total protein level with acidic pH alongwith retruded maxillary complex with Class III malocclusion. Conclusion: Various primary reconstructive surgeries in UCLP children lead to maxillary retrusion with an increased prevalence of dental caries in these patients due to the maintenance of poor oral hygiene.

Remineralizing Potential of Low-fluoridated, Nonfluoridated and Herbal Nonfluoridated Dentifrices on Demineralized Surface of Primary Teeth: An In Vitro Study.

Aim: The aim of this in vitro study is to evaluate the remineralizing potential of commercially available low-fluoridated, nonfluoridated, and herbal nonfluoridated child formula dentifrices on primary teeth. Materials and methods: Total of 36 primary teeth were placed in the demineralizing solution for 96 hours to produce artificial carious lesions of approximately 100 µm depth, and then cut longitudinally into 30 sections of 100-150 µm thickness and randomly assigned to three groups. Sections were treated with low-fluoridated, nonfluoridated, and herbal nonfluoridated dentifrice. Lesions were evaluated using polarized light microscopy. Results: Intragroup comparison of mean lesion depth from pretreatment to posttreatment among the three study groups revealed that maximum reduction in lesion depth was found to be in group I (low-fluoridated) followed in descending order by group III (herbal nonfluoridated) and group II (nonfluoridated), respectively. Conclusion: Group I (low-fluoridated) and group III (herbal nonfluoridated) demonstrated remineralization of carious lesions by virtue of a decrease in lesion depth, whereas group II (nonfluoridated) showed an increase in lesion depth. Clinical significance: Fluoride dentifrices are the most widely used products that deliver topical fluoride to the oral environment. The major drawback is the risk of dental fluorosis, which occurs because of ingestion of dentifrices, in preschool children. This necessitates use of preventive measures which include (1) reducing the amount of toothpaste used, (2) supervised brushing in preschool children and (3) developing low-fluoride toothpastes for minimizing risk of dental fluorosis. Further dental professionals must investigate effectiveness of increasingly popular "Herbal" products. How to cite this article: Tiwari S, Saha S, Dhinsa K, et al. Remineralizing Potential of Low-fluoridated, Nonfluoridated and Herbal Nonfluoridated Dentifrices on Demineralized Surface of Primary Teeth: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(3):251-257.

Cone-beam Computed Tomographic Analysis of Deciduous Root Canals after Instrumentation with Different Filing Systems: An In Vitro Study.

Aim and objective: To evaluate root canal transportation, centering ability ratio (CAR), remaining dentine thickness, dentinal cracks, and instrumentation time after instrumentation with different filing systems in root canals of primary teeth by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) analysis. Materials and methods: Sixty prepared canals of primary teeth divided into 4 groups with 15 canals in each were prepared with NiTi K files, Proaper Next (PTN) files, OneShape (OS), and WaveOne (WO) files, respectively. Using CBCT scan, the pre- and postinstrumentation scan was done to obtain images at three levels (apical, middle, and cervical). The results obtained were statistically analyzed using SPSS 21 statistical software version. Result: Significant statistical difference was found between different filing systems. Conclusion: ProTaper Next files showed least canal transportation and the best centering ability was shown by OS file system. The NiTi K hand files preserved maximum remaining dentin thickness (RDT) and produced minimum dentin cracks. WO file system took least instrumentation time when compared to the other three filing systems. Clinical significance: The use of rotary instruments in the pulpectomy of primary teeth represents a promising technique being advantageous for the pediatric patients by maintaining the original canal curvatures, showing greater ability to maintain dentin thickness, causing lesser dentin cracks, and reducing chair time thus favoring preparation of more conical root canals and better obturation. How to cite this article: Singh P. Cone-beam Computed Tomographic Analysis of Deciduous Root Canals after Instrumentation with Different Filing Systems: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent. 2022;15(S-1):S22-S29.

Molar Incisor Hypomineralization: Prevalence, Associated Risk Factors, Its Relation with Dental Caries and Various Enamel Surface Defects in 8-16-year-old Schoolchildren of Lucknow District.

Introduction: The decreased rate in dental caries cases across the world has created an enthusiasm in many clinicians to relate and study different developmental disorders. In past years, defects that are commonly associated with dentistry are hypomineralized areas commonly seen in central incisors and first molars. Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a defect of the enamel, which is qualitative in nature and systemic in origin characterized by advanced and concurrent hypomineralization of the enamel affecting the first permanent molars together with frequent association of the incisors. Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH), its possible risk factors and its association with dental caries and enamel surface defects (attrition and abrasion) in schoolchildren aged between 8 and 16 years in Lucknow district. Methodology: Indexed teeth (first permanent molars and incisors) of 5,585 schoolchildren, selected by stratified random sampling technique between the age-group of 8 and 16 years, were examined by a trained and calibrated examiner. The data was recorded in a predesigned pro forma by examiner, which consisted of mainly two parts. The first part comprised of general information, while the second part comprised of questions related to risk factors related to MIH (prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal history). For the diagnosis of MIH, the Developmental Defects of Enamel (DDE) Index was used for diagnosis of MIH, while the decay-missing-filled teeth index (DMFT) criteria were used for assessing dental caries. Enamel surface defects were recorded using the Smith and Knight tooth wear index. Results: A prevalence of 7.6% was reported wherein females were found to be more affected by MIH. A strong significant correlation was found between MIH prevalence and childhood infection. Conclusion: Early diagnosis of MIH is necessary to prevent the rapid destruction of the tooth morphology resulting in complicated treatment. Further studies with greater samples are needed to investigate the different etiological factors and determine the biological molecular mechanism that they may cause. Clinical significance: The data obtained from the current study does not portray a clear consideration of the infants' medical history in the initial 4 years of life. Further studies may be performed to surpass these shortcomings by using more elaborate medical records of the child in addition to profound recollection of the parents. Due to paucity of literature on this issue in Lucknow District, our current study may provide some information at a baseline level for conducting an extensive research involving different regions pan-India. How to cite this article: Verma S, Dhinsa K, Tripathi AM, et al. Molar Incisor Hypomineralization: Prevalence, Associated Risk Factors, Its Relation with Dental Caries and Various Enamel Surface Defects in 8-16-year-old Schoolchildren of Lucknow District. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(1):1-8.

Comparative Microleakage Evaluation through the Interfaces between the Tooth and Cement after Stainless Steel Crown Cementation in Primary Molars: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction: The longevity of stainless steel crowns is related to perfect adaptation and long-term union between restoration and teeth. In this respect, evaluation of marginal leakage of luting cement is essential. Aim and objective: To compare and evaluate the ability of new adhesive cement to prevent microleakage under stainless steel crowns on primary teeth. Materials and methods: Forty-five specimens were embedded, standardized preparations were made onto selected extracted primary molars, and stainless steel crowns were adapted. Samples were assigned randomly to cement groups: Glass ionomer (GI), resin-modified glass-ionomer (RMGI), and Adhesive resin (AR) cement, followed by storage in water, artificially aging, staining, sectioning, and the linear dye penetration and proportion of microleakage evaluation. Results: AR showed the lowest microleakage, followed in increasing order by RMGIC and GIC showed the greatest microleakage (p-value < 0.0001). Clinical Significance: There are many kinds of luting agents that vary considerably from the viewpoint of solubility, strength, and ability to adhere to the tooth structure. Lack of adhesion of the luting cement to the tooth structure is one of the reasons for microleakage related to different types of crowns. Cement breakdown may result in the entrance of fluids and microorganisms along with the tooth restoration interface. In this study, attempts were made to simulate standard clinical procedures, although this is not a substitute for the complex oral environment, the results provide useful information to choosing the best cement materials. Conclusion: Adhesive resin cement can be recommended for cementation of Stainless Steel Crowns because of added advantages over others. How to cite this article: Gundewar MS, Saha S, Arora D, et al. Comparative Microleakage Evaluation through the Interfaces between the Tooth and Cement after Stainless Steel Crown Cementation in Primary Molars: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(2):159-163.

The Use of Fiber-optic Transillumination in the Diagnosis of Fracture Line in Teeth: A Method of Standardization in Fracture Strength Studies.

The use of fiber optic transillumination (FOTI) has been witnessed in the clinical scenario for many decades but has not been used in in vitro studies. The present paper highlights the use of FOTI as a method of standardization while conducting fracture strength studies in vitro. How to cite this article: Chanchala HP, Godhi BS, Saha S. The Use of Fiber-optic Transillumination in the Diagnosis of Fracture Line in Teeth: A Method of Standardization in Fracture Strength Studies. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(4):475-477.

Comparison of Self-Reported Empathy Levels among Dental Undergraduate Students in Northern India: A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

CONTEXT: Empathy is one of the fundamentals of communication relevant within the practice of dentistry, and the research is limited in this field. AIMS: The present study was conducted to assess the self-reported empathy levels among dental undergraduate students in Lucknow city of Northern India. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among three dental colleges of Lucknow city during July 2019-September 2019. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: E-survey link was circulated among 790 students through e-mails. It has two parts. The first part included sociodemographic information, wherein the second part, the empathy level of students was assessed using the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy-Health Profession Students Version Questionnaire. The possible score range is 20-140: the higher the mean score, the higher the self-reported empathy level. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The data collected were analyzed using SPSS software version 24. Chi-square test was used to test gender distribution differences among different years. One-way analysis of variance including post hoc tests was used to compare the differences between study variables. RESULTS: The mean ± standard deviation empathy score was 92.55 ± 11.85, 91.85 ± 12.23, 93.25 ± 11.24, 93.37 ± 12.31, and 88.34 ± 12.01 among the first-year, second-year, third-year, final-year, and interns' students, respectively, with a statistically significant difference. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded from the results of the present study that the mean empathy score was highest among final-year students which is suggestive of the impact of education in behavioral sciences.

Development of a Competency-Based Curriculum for undergraduate education in Pediatric Dentistry: A systematic approach.

The changing paradigm of dental education in India has led its way to the development of Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). This article describes the process of developing CBC in the specialty of Pediatric Dentistry under the initiative of Dental Council of India. Rationale behind CBC development is to bring uniform system of education for improving oral health outcomes of the society in long term. The process of CBC development was a collaborative teamwork, planned meticulously with predefined outline, tasks and timelines. Workflow involved identification of curricular content, defining program goals, outlining competencies, assigning them domains / levels of clinical competence, priority, educational strategies, assessment practices, integration and numbers needed for certification in selected competencies. Early clinical exposure was introduced in CBC. The final content was validated and submitted to the Council. CBC output can be summarized as competencies with fair share of all domains, levels, prioritization and integration. It is characterized by flexibility for choosing educational strategies and assessment practices. It opens up ways for global competition. However, it still has some inherent weaknesses like diverging learning paths, time constraints and number chasing. CBC can further have more academic flexibility and develop toward an outcome-based approach. Faculty preparedness and acceptability shall be the biggest challenges in CBC implementation besides resources' availability, support from leadership and acceptability from our primary stakeholders, our learners. CBC is the beginning of evidence-based delivery of education in dentistry. An effective implementation of CBC in current form would result in increased numbers of competent oral healthcare professionals for the society.

Assessment of Oral Health-related Quality of Life in Patients Suffering from Systemic Diseases.

AIM: To assess the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among children suffering from congestive heart failure and bronchial asthma in Lucknow city. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Methodology: Patients aged 6-12 years were assessed using Child Perception Questionnaire (CPQ). DMFT was assessed in same patients to measure their caries experience. RESULTS: Dental caries were observed in 62.6% of cardiac patients followed by 55.8% in bronchial asthma patients. CONCLUSION: Children with CHF had high dental caries experience as compared to asthmatic patients. Due to high caries exposure, they had a negative impact on OHRQoL as compared to others. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The relationship between oral and systemic health must be consistently reinforced to a patient and guardians of children with systemic disease that can enable to improve the quality of life of these compromised populations. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Dhinsa K, Saha S, Tripathi AM, et al. Assessment of Oral Health-related Quality of Life in Patients Suffering from Systemic Diseases. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2021;14(6):779-783.

Comparison of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Four Different Plant Extracts against Cariogenic Bacteria: An In Vitro Study.

BACKGROUND: Dental caries is an oral disease which is infectious in nature associated with various pathogenic microorganisms and is prevalent across the world. AIM: To evaluate and compare the anticariogenic properties of the different plant extracts against various cariogenic microorganisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In phase I, the anticariogenic efficacy of four different herbal extracts, namely Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), Terminalia chebula (Harad), Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi), and Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice), was evaluated against two strains of bacteria viz. Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus. In the second phase of the study, the overall decay depth was compared. RESULTS: In phase I, zone of inhibition was significantly higher in G. glabra (Licorice) followed the descending order by O. sanctum (Tulsi), T. c hebula (Harad), and T. cordifolia (Guduchi), respectively. In the second phase, it was found that the decay depth was significantly higher in T. cordifolia (Guduchi) followed the descending order by T. chebula (Harad), O. sanctum (Tulsi), and G. glabra (Licorice), respectively. CONCLUSION: Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) extract had potent antibacterial efficacy against S. mutans and L. acidophilus. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Synthetic drugs have many adverse effects, so more attention has been paid to natural remedies because they are safe and effective. Today, the main interest is shifted toward the drugs which is derived from plants, which has led to the screening of many herbal plants for their potential antimicrobial activity and the same can be used clinically as an alternative of synthetic drugs used in dentistry. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Rai A, Tripathi AM, Saha S, et al. Comparison of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Four Different Plant Extracts against Cariogenic Bacteria: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2020;13(4):361-367.

Bacterial Identification and Monitoring Around Two-Piece Dental Implants by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS).

Context Early microbiological diagnosis and treatment of periodontal pathogens is important for successful retention of dental implants. Aims This study aimed to identify and monitor oral bacterial colonization after successful two-piece dental implants. Settings and Design In this study, 50 two-piece dental implant subjects were included and assessed clinically, radiographically, and microbiologically. Methods and Material All the parameters were recorded at various stages after prosthesis placement. In each stage, nonadherent (peri-implant sulcular fluid) and adherent (curetted inner threads) samples were collected. Semiquantitative anaerobic culture of the samples were done in Anoxomat system. Bacterial colonies were first identified by routine microbiological methods and then by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) method. Statistical Analysis All the results were analyzed by appropriate statistical methods (Chi-square, one factor analysis of variance, etc.). Results All the bacterial isolates were identified in the MALDI-TOF MS system with no failure. After implant placement for the nonadherent samples, the frequency (%) of Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella melaninogenica, and Propionibacterium acnes decreased whereas frequency (%) of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Streptococcus mitis increased. For adherent samples, the frequency (%) of E. coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Porphyromonas gingivalis, P. melaninogenica , and Veillonella parvula decreased, whereas frequency (%) of S. mitis and Streptococcus mutans increased. The postimplant mean nonadherent and adherent bacterial load increased with time but not significantly over the periods ( p = 0.302 and 0.123, respectively). Conclusion Combination of basic (semiquantitative culture method) and advanced microbiological method (MALDI-TOF MS) can be useful for accurate detection and monitoring of potential pathogens around two-piece dental implants.

Early and accurate detection of bacterial isolates from dental plaque in subjects with primary, mixed, and permanent dentition by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry technique.

BACKGROUND: Bacterial colonization of dentition in different age groups can impact prognosis in different dental diseases. Latest diagnostic technique such as matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) is increasingly being used for accurate identification of bacteria. This study was undertaken to evaluate the MALDI-TOF MS technique to identify bacterial pathogens from dental plaques in subjects with primary, mixed, and permanent dentition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 150 subjects of different age groups and were divided into three groups - Group A: Subjects with primary dentition (n = 50), Group B: Subjects with mixed dentition (n = 50), and Group C: Subjects with permanent dentition (n = 50). Subgingival dental plaque samples were collected from buccal and lingual surfaces of premolar and molar teeth. Clinical parameters such as gingival index were recorded. Samples were cultured in routine aerobic and anaerobic medium. Bacterial growths were assessed by semiquantitative methods. Bacterial isolates were confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS technique. RESULTS: MALDI-TOF MS detected all the culture-grown bacteria. In primary dentition group, purple and yellow complex bacteria predominated. Streptococcus spp. was the predominant bacteria (51%) followed by Escherichia coli (19%) and Veillonella spp. (19%). In mixed dentition and permanent group also, Streptococcus spp. was predominant (46%) followed by Veillonella spp. (24%) and E. coli(19%). However, in both groups, orange complex bacteria (bridge complex) such as Prevotella nigrescens and red complex bacteria (Porphyromonas gingivalis, 3%) were seen. For majority of bacteria, the load increased with age. CONCLUSIONS: The bacterial isolates showed a distinct age-specific colonization. The use of advanced technique such as MALDI-TOF MS is helpful in the detection of periodontal pathogens, and the effective oral health programs can be implemented to minimize the risk of periodontal diseases.

What biologists want from their chloride reporters - a conversation between chemists and biologists.

Impaired chloride transport affects diverse processes ranging from neuron excitability to water secretion, which underlie epilepsy and cystic fibrosis, respectively. The ability to image chloride fluxes with fluorescent probes has been essential for the investigation of the roles of chloride channels and transporters in health and disease. Therefore, developing effective fluorescent chloride reporters is critical to characterizing chloride transporters and discovering new ones. However, each chloride channel or transporter has a unique functional context that demands a suite of chloride probes with appropriate sensing characteristics. This Review seeks to juxtapose the biology of chloride transport with the chemistries underlying chloride sensors by exploring the various biological roles of chloride and highlighting the insights delivered by studies using chloride reporters. We then delineate the evolution of small-molecule sensors and genetically encoded chloride reporters. Finally, we analyze discussions with chloride biologists to identify the advantages and limitations of sensors in each biological context, as well as to recognize the key design challenges that must be overcome for developing the next generation of chloride sensors.

Empathy among dental students: A systematic review of literature.

BACKGROUND: Empathy is just as relevant within dentistry, although research is limited in this field and very less is available in the current literature. The demonstration of empathy by dentists has been correlated with decreased dental fear. The authors systematically reviewed the literature to investigate empathy levels among dental students. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was undertaken concerning dental students' empathy, published from November 2016 to June 2018, using manual methods and the PubMed, PMC, PsycINFO, and other databases. Articles not in English and not concerned with dentistry were excluded, and intervention studies intended to enhance empathy, opinion articles, and reviews or reports of nonoriginal research were excluded. Eligible studies were those published from January 1, 2005, to May 31, 2017, in English language. A total of 34 full-text articles were obtained and assessed. Of these 34 papers, only seven publications were considered to have met the inclusion criteria and were directly related to the aim of literature search. RESULTS: Only seven articles that provided data and evidence describing empathy among dental students were included. Four studies reported that the difference in mean empathy level across the year of study was statistically significant (P < 0.05), and one reported that there was no significant difference in empathy scores between the year levels of study. Three articles reported that males had higher mean empathy score than females, whereas vice versa was found in the remaining four articles. CONCLUSION: This article demonstrates that there is only a limited evidence to provide the understanding of empathy among dental students. The results indicated that as patient exposure increases, the empathy level decreases among dental students. Furthermore, it is observed that education in behavioral sciences may be effective in increasing self-reported empathy, and further training may be necessary to maintain high levels.

An In-Vitro evaluation of resin infiltration system and conventional pit and fissure sealant on enamel properties in white spot lesions.

BACKGROUND: Clinically appearing early caries are referred to as white spot lesions (WSLs). These lesions compromise esthetics and precede cavitation; therefore, they must be halted by effective materials. AIM: To evaluate and compare the depth of penetration and effect of resin infiltration system (Icon) and other conventional pit and fissure sealants (Clinpro and Embrace) on enamel surface properties of WSLs. METHODOLOGY: Freshly extracted premolars were obtained. Enamel surfaces were treated with resin infiltrant and fissure sealant. Depth of penetration and surface roughness of specimens were measured with an optical profilometer. Microhardness was determined by a Vickers' hardness tester. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Normality of the data was checked by Shapiro-Wilk test. Inferential statistics were performed using one-way analysis of variance. Post hoc pairwise comparison was done using post hoc Tukey's test. RESULTS: Icon resin infiltrant showed the highest depth of penetration and microhardness followed in descending order by Embrace and Clinpro whereas Clinpro was found to cause maximum surface roughness followed in descending order by Embrace and Icon. CONCLUSION: The resin infiltration technique for treating WSLs seems adjusted to the philosophy of minimally invasive dentistry in a single appointment, making it beneficial for the patients, especially children.

Influence of plant extracts mixed with endodontic sealers on the growth of oral pathogens in root canal: An in vitro study.

INTRODUCTION: Microbes are considered as the primary etiological agents in endodontic diseases. Ways of reducing these agents are root canal debridement and antibacterial filling materials. One of the factors in determining the success of endodontic treatment previously was sealing root canals with materials possessing potent bactericidal effect. Due to cytotoxic reactions of sealers and their inability to eliminate bacteria completely from dentinal tubules, trend to use natural plants extracts have been introduced. AIM: To compare antimicrobial activity of endodontic sealers added to herbal extracts. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Three sealers mixed with three herbal extracts were evaluated against seven strains of bacteria at various time intervals using Agar Diffusion Test. The mean zones of inhibition were measured. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: All statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 15 statistical software version, Chicago. Intergroup comparison was evaluated using Kruskal Walls test along with Mann Whitney U test. The Intragroup comparison was evaluatd using Friedman test along with Wilcoxon test. RESULTS: Statistically significant zones of bacterial growth inhibition were observed largest with Zinc Oxide Eugenol based sealer when mixed with Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) followed in descending order by zinc oxide eugenol based sealer mixed with Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) and Mimusops elengi (Bakul) respectively. CONCLUSION: Zinc Oxide Eugenol based sealer with herbal extracts produced largest inhibitory zones followed in descending order by Resin based sealer and Calcium hydroxide along with three herbal extracts respectively.