Effect of Stainless-Steel Crown and Preformed Zirconia Crown on the Periodontal Health of Endodontically Treated Primary Molars Correlating with IL-1ß: An In Vivo Study.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of different crown materials on the interleukinone beta (IL-1ß) content of the gingival crevicular fluid and to study which crown material causes the highest inflammation on the marginal gingiva on a biochemical basis in pediatric patients. STUDY DESIGN: Twenty patients in the age group of 4-8 years with endodontically treated primary molars indicated for crown placement were selected for the study which was further divided into 3 groups for sample consideration: group 1-stainless steel crown, group 2-preformed zirconia crown, and group 3- control group (primary second molar). All assay procedures were carried out and the results of the collected samples were calculated using the ELISA-AID TM technique. RESULTS: On mean comparison among the groups using ANOVA oneway test, P-value turns out to be highly significant, on mean comparison using Tukey's HSD post-hoc test, The p-value was 0.000 ,0.000 ,0.193 on comparing group 1 with group 2, group 1 with group 3, group 2 with group 3 respectively. CONCLUSION: Preformed zirconia crown can be a relative replacement of SSC in primary molars as it causes comparatively less inflammation and with an advantage of esthetics.

Estimation of Trace Elements in Mixed Saliva of Caries Free and Caries Active Children.

OBJECTIVE: Composition of saliva plays an important role in defining the dental caries risk for an individual. The role of trace elements present in saliva on dental caries is still not clear. Thus this study was designed to evaluate the effect of certain salivary trace elements like copper, potassium, fluoride, selenium and lead on the caries experience of children. STUDY DESIGN: 60 subjects in the age group of 3-15 years were selected and divided into two groups, caries active and caries free. 5 ml of unstimulated saliva from each subject was collected and analyzed for the levels of trace elements using Induced Couple Plasma Spectrophotometer (ICP-OES). RESULTS: Copper and Fluoride levels were significantly higher in caries free as compared to caries active individuals whereas Lead was significantly higher in caries active as compared to caries free children (p-value<0.05). Potassium and Selenium though present in appreciable amounts did not show any significant difference between the two groups (p-value>0.05). CONCLUSION: In caries free subjects, copper and fluoride levels were significantly higher while the level of lead was lower as compared to caries-active children. Potassium and selenium did not show any significant differences within the two groups.

Deproteinizing Agents as an Effective Enamel Bond Enhancer-An in Vitro Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of different deproteinizing agents on shear bond strength of composite to primary teeth enamel. STUDY DESIGN: Forty sound primary molars divided in 4 groups of 10 teeth each. In control group 1, enamel was etched for 60 seconds with 37% phosphoric acid and rinsed with water. Group 2: after acid etching deproteinizing agent 5 % sodium hypochlorite was applied for 60 seconds and rinsed. Group 3: after acid etching deproteinizing agent papain gel was applied for 60 seconds and rinsed. Group 4: after acid etching deproteinizing agent bromelain gel applied for 60 seconds and rinsed. Following this, bonding agent was applied to treated enamel surface and composite resin disc were build. Samples were then tested for shear bond strength using Universal Testing Machine. RESULTS: Mean SBS was highest for group 4 and lowest for group 1. No statistically significant difference (p value >0.05) was found between all the four groups. CONCLUSION: Among deproteinizing agents, deproteinization when carried out with bromelain gel and sodium hypochlorite showed effective bond strength as compared to papain.

Effectiveness of Air Drying and Magnification Methods for Detecting Initial Caries on Occlusal Surfaces Using Three Different Diagnostic Aids.

Objective-The aim of this study was to assess the effect of magnification and air-drying on detection of carious lesion. Study Design-44 human extracted premolars were selected with sound occlusal surfaces without frank cavitation. The Diagnostic techniques used were Unaided visual examination, Magnifying Loupes (4.2×) and Stereomicroscope (10×, before and after air-drying) and then the teeth were sectioned bucco-lingually and both the surfaces were examined under Stereomicroscope (50×) to assess the presence or absence of carious lesion in the pit and fissures. The scores were compared to obtain Cohen's kappa coefficient (Reproducibility) and subjected to the Friedman Test and Paired t test. Sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value used to assess accuracy. Results-On Statistical analysis, visual examination before and after air drying had highest specificity but lowest sensitivity compared to different diagnostic techniques. Magnifying loupes after air-drying had highest sensitivity and lowest specificity compared to other diagnostic techniques. Conclusion-Air drying combined with magnifying aids are cost-effective, reliable method for detection of early carious lesion. If used in pediatric clinical practice, any undesirable pain and discomfort to the patient due to invasive procedures and helps in employing preventive measures.

Shear Bond Strength of Self-etching Adhesives to Cavities Prepared by Diamond Bur or Er,Cr:YSGG Laser and Effect of Prior Acid Etching.

PURPOSE: To compare and evaluate shear bond strength of self-etching adhesives bonded to cavities prepared by diamond bur or Er,Cr:YSGG laser and the effect of prior acid etching on shear bond strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety-six caries-free human premolars were selected and divided into 2 groups depending on mode of cavity preparation (48 teeth each). Cavities were prepared with Er,Cr:YSGG laser in group 1 and diamond burs in an air-turbine handpiece in group 2. Groups 1 and 2 were further subdivided into three subgroups of 8 teeth each, which were bonded with sixth- or seventh-generation adhesives with or without prior acid etching, followed by restoration of all samples with APX Flow. These samples were subjected to shear bond strength testing. In addition, the surface morphology of 24 samples each from groups 1 and 2 was evaluated using SEM. Data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, one- and two-way ANOVA, the t-test, and the least significant difference test, which showed that the data were normally distributed (p > 0.05). RESULTS: The shear bond strength of adhesives in cavities prepared by Er,Cr:YSGG laser was significantly higher than in diamond bur-prepared cavities (p < 0.05). SEM analysis showed a smear-layer-free anfractuous surface on laser-ablated teeth, in contrast to conventional bur-prepared teeth. CONCLUSIONS: The Er,Cr:YSGG laser-ablated surface proved to be more receptive for adhesion than those prepared by diamond bur irrespective of the bonding agent used. Seventh-generation adhesives yielded higher shear bond strength than did sixth-generation adhesives. Prior acid etching decreased the shear bond strength of self-etching adhesives.

Using nitrous oxide inhalation sedation for classical conditioning - An evaluative study.

PURPOSE: This study was undertaken to evaluate conscious sedation as a means of classical conditioning for managing paediatric dental patients. METHODS: A total of 20 healthy children (American Society of Anesthesiologists I) aged 5-9 years with positive and definitely positive Frankel behaviour rating scale were evaluated. In the first appointment (A1) non-invasive treatment under nitrous oxide inhalation sedation was performed and oxygen saturation and pulse rate at 10%, 30% and 50% were recorded. In subsequent appointment (A2") same treatment was executed under 100% oxygen and recordings were taken. Behaviour was assessed using comfort scale. RESULTS: No significant difference was observed in pulse rate, oxygen saturation and visual analogue scale whereas scores of comfort scale showed significant results. CONCLUSION: Once behaviour modification to dental treatment is achieved, subsequent visit can be undertaken even without sedation, giving oxygen as a placebo where patient is sensitized to nasal hood resulting in positive dental behaviour.

Inter-comparison of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy, LASER, and an antifungal agent as adjunct intracanal irrigation techniques to standard disinfection protocols in reducing Candida albicans counts in the root canals of primary teeth: A pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Despite endodontic infections being a common problem in the primary dentition, some of the infected primary teeth can remain functional until the exfoliation through endodontic treatment. The primary endodontic treatment goal must be to optimize root canal disinfection and to prevent reinfection. AIM: The aim of this study is to compare the antifungal efficacy of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy, LASER, and 1% clotrimazole as irrigants by reducing the colony-forming units (CFU) of Candida albicans in the infected root canals of primary teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pulp therapy was performed on deciduous mandibular second molars of 20 healthy children aged 5-8 years, which were divided into four groups of intracanal disinfection protocols: Group 1 (n = 5) - Sodium Hypochlorite, Group 2 (n = 5) - Photodynamic, Group 3 (n = 5) - Normal saline with LASER, and Group 4 - (n = 5) Antifungal. Disinfection potential was compared by collecting samples one just after access opening and the other after the experimental groups using paper points. The samples were cultured and incubated for 48 h to check change in CFU of the fungi. RESULTS: Data were analyzed statistically using the Shapiro-Wilk's test, Mann-Whitney U-test; Kruskal-Wallis test, and Wilcoxon signed-ranks test. No significant difference (P > 0.05) was found between the different groups. However, complete inhibition of C. albicans CFU was seen with Group 4. CONCLUSION: One percent Clotrimazole (antifungal) can be utilized as an adjunct in the endodontic irrigation protocol for better success of pulpectomy in children.

Evaluation of compressive strength, shear bond strength, and microhardness values of glass-ionomer cement Type IX and Cention N.

AIM: This study aimed to compare the compressive strength, shear bond strength, and microhardness of glass-ionomer cement (GIC) Type IX and Cention N. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five samples each of GIC Type IX and Cention N were prepared for testing the shear bond strength, tensile strength, and microhardness. Cylinders of the samples measuring 1 cm diameter and 6 mm height were prepared for compressive strength and shear bond strength. For shear bond strength, these samples were embedded into acrylic blocks of dimensions 2 cm × 2 cm. Testing of shear bond strength and compressive strength was done by mounting the samples in a universal testing machine with a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. The samples for microhardness were 1 cm diameter and 5 mm height. The samples were mounted on Vickers microhardness testing machine to test the microhardness. RESULTS: The values for shear bond strength of Cention N were statistically highly significant (P < 0.01) as compared to GIC Type IX, whereas the compressive strength and microhardness values of Cention N were statistically significant (P < 0.5) as compared to GIC Type IX. CONCLUSION: The results suggest significantly higher values for mechanical properties of Cention N as compared to GIC Type IX.

Variations in Physiological, Psychomotor, and Analgesic Parameters during Titration of Nitrous Oxide in 3-12 Years Old Children Managed with Inhalation Sedation.

BACKGROUND: The present study was designed to assess variations in physiological, psychomotor parameters, and analgesic effects at various levels of nitrous oxide-oxygen analgesia in 3-12 years old children. DESIGN: One hundred children aged 3-12 years were assessed for physiological, psychomotor, and analgesic parameters at various concentrations of N2O, i.e., baseline, 20, 40, 50, and 0% (100% O2). Physiological, psychomotor, and analgesic effects were assessed using a pulse oximeter, bender visual-motor Gestalt test, and response to electric pulp tester, respectively. RESULTS: Oxygen saturation (SpO2) showed a significant increase while heart rate (HR) showed a significant reduction at 50% N2O. No significant changes were observed in respiratory rate with a change in N2O levels. Significant reduction in the pain scores was found at the same level of stimulation by an electric pulp tester at 40 and 50% levels. The psychomotor changes were consistently higher at every concentration of nitrous oxide. However, no correlation could be found between various parameters tested. CONCLUSION: N2O caused a significant increase in SpO2 in both the age groups, a decrease in HR, a significant decrease in pain score at 40 and 50% concentration of N2O, and had a significant effect on the psychomotor ability of children. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Sharma S, Chopra R, Mathur S, et al. Variations in Physiological, Psychomotor, and Analgesic Parameters during Titration of Nitrous Oxide in 3-12 Years Old Children Managed with Inhalation Sedation. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2020;13(6):650-655.

Evaluation of a mixture of zinc oxide-10% sodium fluoride as novel root canal filling material: A pilot study!!

BACKGROUND: To establish mixture of zinc oxide and 10% sodium fluoride as a novel root canal obturating material for primary teeth. AIM: This study aims to evaluate clinical and radiographic success of a mixture of zinc oxide and 10% sodium fluoride as root canal obturating material. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This pilot study was conducted among 30 primary molars indicated for pulpectomy. METHODS: Thirty grossly decayed primary molars of children aged 4-9 years were selected with signs or symptoms of irreversibly inflamed or degenerative pulp tissue. Single sitting pulpectomy was carried out in all the teeth with a mixture of zinc oxide powder with 10% sodium fluoride, and they were subsequently restored with preformed crown. Teeth were assessed clinically and radiographically at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month intervals. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Data were analyzed using SPSS Software Version 20.0 (IBM SPSS Statistics, Chicago, IL, USA) and statistical significance was determined by Chi-square test; level of significance was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Overall clinical and radiographic success rate of combination of zinc oxide and sodium fluoride was 92.9% and 85.7%, respectively, at the end of 12 months. Furthermore, resorption rate of material matched resorption of tooth root. Excess filling material was also observed to resorb at the end of 3 months. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that combination of zinc oxide and sodium fluoride can be considered as suitable alternative root canal obturating materials for primary teeth with low cost to achieve acceptable therapeutic results.

Comparison of Visual Examination and Magnification with DIAGNOdent for Detection of Smooth Surface Initial Carious Lesion-Dry and Wet Conditions.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and reliability of magnification, DIAGNOdent in detection of smooth surface white spot lesions. STUDY DESIGN: Three hundred children aged 5-10 years were examined by two examiners for presence of smooth surface white spot lesions using naked eye and magnifying loupes in wet and dry conditions followed by DIAGNOdent analysis. Data was analysed using Cohen's kappa coefficient, Friedman test and Paired t test. Accuracy was assessed by sensitivity and positive predicted values. RESULTS: Significant difference was found between naked eyes and magnifying loupes with and without air drying. While insignificant difference was found between DIAGNOdent and loupes. CONCLUSION: Magnifying loupes with air drying is an effective method in detection of smooth surface white spot lesion. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: With the increased knowledge about the pathogenesis of dental caries and its ability to be remineralisable if detected early, makes it all the more important for the clinician to be vigilant in detection of early lesion to prevent the avoidable restorative approach for the same. Incorporation of magnification to routine dental examination by general dentist can help in early diagnosis and treatment of dental decay. This could prevent further progression of dental caries and reduces the incidence of tooth decay. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Gupta N, Sandhu M, et al. Comparison of Visual Examination and Magnification with DIAGNOdent for Detection of Smooth Surface Initial Carious Lesion-Dry and Wet Conditions. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2019;12(1):37-41.

Effect of three different compositions of topical fluoride varnishes with and without prior oral prophylaxis on Streptococcus mutans count in biofilm samples of children aged 2-8 years: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Various strategies for controlling caries focus on disrupting the interaction between risk factors. Of these, fluoride varnish has been shown to reduce the colony-forming (CFU) units and water-insoluble extracellular polysaccharide amount. Casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) and xylitol-containing fluoride varnishes have recently gained importance as caries-protective fluoride varnishes. AIM: This study aims to assess and compare the reduction in Streptococcus mutans count in biofilm samples after topical application of three different fluoride varnishes and to evaluate the effect of oral prophylaxis prior to fluoride varnish application. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty healthy children with no active caries, in the age group of 2-8 years, were randomly divided into Group A = fluoride varnish containing CPP-ACP; Group B = fluoride varnish containing xylitol; and Group C = fluoride varnish with 0.9% difluorosilane; further, the groups were divided into two subgroups, namely A1, B1, and C1 with prior oral prophylaxis and A2, B2, and C2 without oral prophylaxis. Plaque samples were collected at baseline, 1st month, and 3rd month; cultured; and incubated, and CFU/ml was calculated. RESULTS: Data were compiled, and CFU/ml was analyzed by independent t-test, paired t-test, and one-way ANOVA. There was no statistical difference between the fluoride groups. Furthermore, no statistically significant difference was seen between the subgroups. CONCLUSION: Fluoride varnish containing CPP-ACP showed higher reduction in S. mutans count followed by xylitol-containing fluoride varnish and Fluor Protector®. There was no effect of prior oral prophylaxis on the efficacy of fluoride varnish.

Evaluation of temperature rise and efficacy of cavity disinfection with diode laser: An in vivo study.

BACKGROUND: Management of caries using minimally invasive dentistry is prevalent in dentistry today. A newer technology is to disinfect/sterilize caries in depth of the dental tissue with diode laser. However, to have a bactericidal effect, increased energy density of light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation (LASER) may be required which in turn may lead to higher thermal load causing harmful effects on vital pulpal tissue. AIMS: The aim was to evaluate temperature rise and efficacy of cavity disinfection with diode laser. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty permanent molar teeth with dentinal caries were randomly assigned into two groups on the basis of LASER irradiation: Group 1 - at 1 W, Group 2 - at 2 W. The elevation of subsurface temperature during irradiation was measured using thermocouples positioned in the center of a prepared cavity. Dentinal samples were collected before and after disinfection of the cavity. These samples were subjected to microbiological evaluation for Streptococcus mutans on Mutans-Sanguis agar and Lactobacilli on Rogosa agar. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Log transformed "t"-test and paired "t"-test were used for the statistical analysis. RESULTS: Although the reduction in microbial count revealed insignificant difference at two different wattages, the rise in temperature with 1 W was less than that with 2 W. CONCLUSION: Efficacy of 1 W and 2 W is similar, but 1 W causes less thermal changes, thus, 1 W is recommended over 2 W.

Fluoride Concentration in Saliva following Professional Topical Application of 2% Sodium Fluoride Solution.

BACKGROUND: Topical fluoride application in moderate and high-risk individuals and in those living in low-fluoride communities has been a common practice by dental professionals. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to assess fluoride concentration available in saliva after a professional 2% sodium fluoride solution application (9000 ppm), and the duration of its availability to have an evidence-based practice for application. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two percent sodium fluoride application was carried out in 45 participants residing in a boarding school. The participants were non tea drinkers and nonfluoride users. Water fluoride of the area ranged from 0.34 ppm to 0.38 ppm. Whole mixed saliva samples were collected at baseline and various time intervals postapplication of 2% sodium fluoride solution. Fluoride in saliva was estimated using the fluoride combination electrode (Orion model 94-09, 96-09) coupled to an ionanalyzer. RESULTS: IBM SPSS statistics version 23.0 was used for the analysis. Normality of the data was assessed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and box plot, and it was found to be nonnormal. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare all time intervals with baseline, and statistically significant differences were observed (P = 0.0001). Salivary fluoride according to this study showed a biphasic clearance pattern with a peak at 15 min and a rapid fall in 60 min followed by a slow, consistent decline over a 20-h period. The fluoride concentration in saliva remained elevated above baseline from 0.03 ppm to 0.076 ppm even 3 months after application. CONCLUSION: Findings of this study show that, in this population, the frequency of application should be between 2 and 3 months (four applications per year).

Evaluation of Remineralization Potential of Beverages modified with Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate on Primary and Permanent Enamel: A Laser Profiler Study.

PURPOSE: To assess the erosive potential of carbonated beverages and the remineralization potential of beverages with added casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) paste on primary and permanent enamel. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 32 primary and 32 permanent enamel specimens were immersed for 5, 10, and 30 minutes, respectively, in beverages, i.e., Coke, Sprite, Mirinda, and Mountain Dew, with and without added 0.2% CPP-ACP. Samples were profiled before immersion and after immersion under laser profiler. RESULTS: Coke was found to be highly erosive at it caused significant enamel erosion at both 10 and 30 minutes of immersion (p < 0.05) for both primary and permanent enamel. The 30-minute immersion caused significant amount of reminerali-zation over primary enamel in all groups, whereas permanent enamel remineralization was significant in Sprite and Mountain Dew at 30 minutes in all the groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that enamel erosion occurred after immersion in carbonated beverages. Remineralization of enamel was observed after immersion in beverages modified with CPP-ACP paste. Primary enamel was susceptible to remineralization compared with permanent enamel. Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the application of CPP-ACP paste may enhance the remineralization after an erosive challenge and thus offer some protection for patients who are at risk for erosion.How to cite this article: Rai N, Sandhu M, Sachdev V, Sharma R. Evaluation of Remineralization Potential of Beverages modified with Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate on Primary and Permanent Enamel: A Laser Profiler Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2018;11(1):7-12.

Emerging Understanding of Emotional Intelligence of Teenagers.

AIM: Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to use emotions effectively and productively. It is becoming increasingly clear that these skills are one of the primary foundations for better performance of students in classrooms and in the society as well and EI provides the basis for competencies important "in almost every job." So we accessed the EI of teenagers as a guide of their academic score. STUDY DESIGN: We analyzed the correlation of academic score to the EI of teenagers in regular schools and part-time unconventional coaching institute using the Bar-On Emotional Quotient questionnaire. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The results of our study showed that empathy and self-actualization were highly developed in students of regular conventional school than those attending part-time unconventional coaching institute. The academic score had a significantly positive correlation with empathy, whereas a significantly negative correlation with interpersonal relations. Empathy, interpersonal relation, and impulsive control were significantly higher in females than males. Therefore by inculcating and working toward development of EI in the young generation, we can hope to achieve a more positive environment. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Sekhri P, Sandhu M, Sachdev V. Emerging Understanding of Emotional Intelligence of Teenagers. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(3):289-292.

The effect of different root canal sealers on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth-in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the in vitro effects of four different root canal sealers on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-five freshly extracted human mandibular premolars were used for the study. Teeth were divided into five groups based on type of root canal sealers used. Gutta-percha was used for all the samples: Group I: AH Plus root canal sealer, Group II: MTA Fillapex root canal sealer, Group III: Apexit root canal sealer, Group IV: Conventional zinc oxide-eugenol (ZOE) sealer, Group V: Control (unobturated teeth). The teeth were embedded in acrylic resin blocks and fracture force was measured using a universal testing machine (Asian Test Equipments). Data obtained were statistically evaluated using one-way ANOVA and post hoc test (Tukey's test). All groups showed statistically significant result (P < 0.05). RESULTS: Group I and Group II showed higher resistance to fracture than other three groups. There was comparable difference in fracture force between Group I and Group II. Moreover, there was no statistically significant difference between Group III and Group IV and between Group IV and Group V. CONCLUSION: Based on this in vitro study, resin-based sealer was more effective as compared to other sealers and the control group. However, no significant differences were observed between ZOE and control group.

Effect of Low-level LASER Therapy on P6 Acupoint to Control Gag Reflex in Children: A Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of low level laser therapy (LLLT) on PC6 acupuncture point in suppressing gag reflex, regulating pulse rates and oxygen saturation, thereby reducing the anxiety levels. MATERIALS AND METHOD: A total of 40 patients who demonstrated hyperactive gag reflex in the age group of 4-14 years were included in the study. In Group A (20 patients), maxillary impression was recorded. In the second step, PC6 acupuncture point was stimulated with LLLT followed by recording of second maxillary impression. In group B (20 patients), steps were reversed. Gag reflex, anxiety levels, pulse rate and oxygen saturation levels were assessed. RESULTS: Values of pulse rate and oxygen saturation were regulated to normal, signifying lowered anxiety levels. Gag reflex was also significantly decreased after stimulating PC6 acupuncture point with LLLT. CONCLUSION: LLLT on PC6 point was found to be effective in lowering anxiety levels as observed by faces modified anxiety rating scale. Further, it was authenticated as the pulse rates were significantly reduced and oxygen saturation levels were significantly increased. Also, gag reflex was significantly controlled when LASER stimulation was done at PC6.

Distribution of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus in Dental Plaque of Indian Pre-School Children Using PCR and SB-20M Agar Medium.

INTRODUCTION: Dental caries is one of the most common infectious diseases affecting the oral cavity. Among the oral bacteria, mutans streptococci have been implicated as major cariogenic bacteria as they can produce high levels of dental caries causing substances such as lactic acid and extracellular polysaccharides. AIM: The aim of the study was to detect the presence of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus in dental plaque by using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method, quantification of these micro-organisms using Modified Sucrose-Bacitracin (SB-20M) agar medium and to correlate their presence in Caries Active (CA) and Caries Free (CF) pre-school children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-eight pre-school children, in the age group of 3-5 years were divided equally into 34 CA and 34 CF children. Dental plaque samples were obtained for detection of these microorganisms by PCR method and quantification was done using SB-20M culture medium. The data was analyzed using statistical software SPSS version 16. For statistical analysis, the frequencies and means of Colony Forming Units (CFU) were used with CI = 95%. For bivariate analysis, Fisher exact test was used at 5% level of significance. The comparison of mean of number of CFU of S. mutans and S. sobrinus was made by Mann Whitney U test and Spearman's Rho test at 1% level of significance was used for correlation between dmft and CFU in CA group. RESULTS: The results showed that S. sobrinus was significantly higher in CA group as compared to CF group whereas S. mutans showed no significant difference. On quantification of these micro-organisms, S. sobrinus was present in significantly higher numbers in CA group as compared to CF group. On correlating the CFU/ml of the micro-organisms with the dmft index, both the micro-organisms showed a positive correlation. CONCLUSION: We conclude that S. mutans and S. sobrinus were detected in higher numbers in CA children as compared to CF children. PCR is a sensitive, specific, rapid and an effective method for the detection of oral microorganisms.

A comparative assessment of fluoride concentration available in saliva using daily prescribed topical fluoride agents.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the availability of fluoride concentration in saliva following the use of fluoride mouthrinse and dentifrice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The experiment was carried out in 7-15 year-old school children of Chandigarh (n = 90). The children were nonfluoride users. Baseline saliva samples were collected. The subjects were exposed to two test agents, i.e., fluoride mouthrinse (0.05%, 225 ppm F) and dentifrice (1000 ppm F) for 7 days and on the day 8, saliva samples were collected over a 20 hrs period. Wash out period of 3(1/2) months was there before the subjects were exposed to the second test agent. Fluoride in saliva was estimated using fluoride ion-specific electrode. Written informed consent was taken. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was applied to test the normality of the variables. Mann-Whitney U-test was used to compare the fluoride concentration available in saliva at respective time intervals subsequent to use of the two test agents. RESULTS: Fluoride concentration was elevated in saliva compared to baseline for both the test agents. Fluoride mouthrinse (0.05% sodium fluoride [NaF]) and dentifrice (1000 ppm monofluorophosphate [MFP]) showed a biphasic clearance. Peak in saliva occurred at 15 mins postuse. Night-time use resulted in higher concentration of fluoride in saliva compared to baseline. There was statistically significantly higher fluoride concentration available in saliva for the dentifrice at 5 hrs, 10 hrs, and 20 hrs postuse (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Subsequent to the use of NaF (0.05%) daily mouthrinse and MFP dentifrice (1000 ppm) the fluoride concentration in saliva remained elevated to a level of 0.12 ppm for mouthrinse and 0.14 ppm for dentifrice compared to baseline (0.03 ppm) up to 20 hrs postuse. The therapeutic window though not yet established but suggested is 0.1-1 ppm for prevention of demineralization, indicating that daily use of fluoride mouthrinse and dentifrice provides fluoride concentration in saliva for the prevention of demineralization.