Evaluation of Microleakage of Nanoionomer and Nanocomposite Restorations, immersed in Fruit Drink, Fresh Fruit Juice and Soft Drink--An in vitro Study.

AIM: To evaluate microleakage of Nanoionomer (3M ESPE Ketac(™) N100 Light cured Nanoionomer Restorative) and Nanocomposite (3M ESPE Filtek(™) Z350 XT Universal Restorative) restorations, immersed in fruit drink, fresh fruit juice and soft drink. STUDY DESIGN: Eighty caries free maxillary premolars extracted for orthodontic purpose were used for the study. Class V cavities were prepared and restored with Nanocomposite on buccal surface and Nanoionomer on the palatal surface. The teeth were thermocycled following the restoration. The experimental groups comprised of 72 teeth (3 groups comprising 24 teeth each for fruit drink, fresh fruit juice and soft drink), while remaining 8 formed the control group. Each of experimental group was further divided into three subgroups (low, medium and high immersion). The teeth were finally immersed in Rhodamine B dye, sectioned and evaluated under stereomicroscope. Statistical analyses used were Mann-Whitney test and ANOVA test. RESULTS: The teeth showed statistically significant microleakage as the immersion regime increased. Soft drink group showed highest microleakage followed by fresh fruit juice and fruit drink. Nanocomposite exhibited more microleakage but the comparison was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The three beverages used in the study affected the microleakage of both restorative materials significantly. The microleakage scores increased as the frequency of the immersions increased. Soft drink caused highest microleakage followed by fresh fruit juice and fruit drink.

Correlation of Ora Test and Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment Index (CAST) to Evaluate Caries Activity in 5-to-8-Year-Old Children.

Objectives: Dental caries is a common chronic disease amongst children and are typically evaluated using the DMFT/deft index (decayed, missing, and filled teeth for permanent dentition/decayed, extracted, and filled teeth for primary dentition). To address the limitations associated with these indices, alternative assessment tools such as the Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) index and Ora test have been developed. These methods aim to estimate caries activity within the oral cavity more accurately. The objective of our study was to evaluate and correlate caries activity in 5-to-8-year-old children using Ora test and CAST index. Materials and Methods: Thirty schoolchildren between the ages of 5 and 8 years were selected and allocated into two groups (n=15) with DMFT/deft scores of <5 (group A) and >5 (group B). Two separate blinded examiners administered the assessments by first determining CAST scoring, which was followed by Ora test. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson correlation test and significance was set at P≤0.05. Results: The mean time for color change of Ora test, was 118.53±23.28 minutes in group A and 53.33±15.07 minutes in group B. CAST severity scores were 3.67±2.08 and 15.7±9.70 for groups A and B, respectively. Time taken for color change in Ora test and CAST scores showed a significant negative linear relationship (P=0.039). Conclusion: Based on the negative correlation between CAST scores and Ora test, it may be postulated that microbial activity is directly related to caries activity in 5-to-8-year-old children.

Root and Root Canal Anatomy of Primary Mandibular Central Incisor, Lateral Incisor, and Canine in Indian Children: A Cone Beam Computed Tomography Study.

Background: A thorough knowledge of root and root canal morphology in primary dentition is essential for success of endodontic therapy. This information also finds importance in anthropological research in reconstructing human population history. Lack of studies of root and root canal morphology in mandibular anterior teeth prompted us to the present study. Methods: A total of 109 extracted primary mandibular incisors and canines were collected, out of which 90 teeth were selected for this study and divided into 3 groups: CI, mandibular central incisor; LI, mandibular lateral incisor; C, mandibular canine. All the sample teeth were scanned using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Number of roots, number of root canals, length of root, mesiodistal (MD), and buccolingual (BL) width of canal, shape of canal, and presence of accessory canals were assessed. Collected data were statistically compared using one-way ANOVA and chi-square tests. Results: All teeth studied displayed single root with single root canal conforming to type I Vertucci's classification. Root length of CI was significantly shorter than both LI and C, with no significant difference between LI and C. Straight root canals were more common in CI and LI, whereas curved canals were more common in C. S-shaped canals were seen in a few CI and C. BL canal width was more than MD width in all teeth, C showing significantly larger dimensions than both CI and LI. Conclusion: This study presents root and root canal characteristics of primary mandibular central incisor, lateral incisor, and canine in children from Indian ethnicity.

A cone-beam computed tomographic study of root and root canal morphology of primary maxillary and mandibular second molars in Indian Children: An in vitro study.

Introduction: The root canal system in primary molars is considered to be complex. The aim of the present study was to assess the morphology of roots and root canals of primary maxillary and mandibular second molars using the cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: From a total of 104 collected primary maxillary and mandibular molars (51 maxillary second molars and 53 mandibular second molars), 60 teeth (30 each of maxillary and mandibular second molars) were selected randomly and accordingly assigned into two groups: MAX2M (primary maxillary second molars) and MAN2M (primary mandibular second molars). CBCT was used to assess the number of roots and root canals, length of root, mesiodistal and buccolingual width of the canal, shape of the canal, and intercanal communications. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software version 17.0. Results: The mandibular second molars showed the presence of two roots in 27 sample molars while the presence of three roots was observed in three MAN2M group. In these molars, all three roots exhibited Type I root canal configuration. The maxillary second molars exhibited three roots. A total of nine intercanal communications were seen in MAX2M group, whereas two communications were seen in MAN2M group. The palatal root in MAX2M group was more angulated (mean value: 127.21 ± 9.10) as compared to mesial (mean value: 95.39 ± 8.64) and distal roots (114 ± 11.24). Conclusion: The comprehensive knowledge of root and canal morphology of primary molars and anatomic variations is essential for successful endodontic therapy.

Comparative Evaluation of Apically Extruded Debris during Pulpectomy Procedure in Primary Molar Teeth Using Two Different Rotary Systems and Hand Files: An In Vitro Study.

Background: Successful outcome of endodontic treatment depends on chemomechanical preparation of the tooth. However, during canal preparation, debris may extrude through the apical foramen causing postoperative complications. The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the amount of apically extruded debris during the pulpectomy procedure in primary molar teeth using two different rotary files and hand files. Materials and Methods: Distal roots of sixty extracted primary molars were divided into three groups: group A: Prime Pedo™ pediatric rotary files, group B: DXL-Pro Pedo™ pediatric rotary files, and group C: hand files. Myers and Montgomery experimental model was used. Preweighed Eppendorf tubes were used to collect apically extruded debris. The tubes were then placed in an incubator at 70°C for 5 days. The weight of the debris attained was determined. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni test. Results: Hand files produced more apical debris extrusion (P < 0.05). Prime Pedo™ pediatric rotary files produced the least debris (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Prime Pedo™ and DXL-Pro Pedo™ pediatric rotary files extruded significantly lower amount of debris apically during pulpectomy as compared to hand files. Rotary files can be considered an alternative to hand files in pediatric endodontics.

Age Estimation in Children by the Measurement of Open Apices in Teeth: A Study in the Western Indian Population.

In forensic sphere and clinical dentistry, age estimation is a topic of utmost importance. Various techniques are employed in children to determine age; however, dental development has proven to be an appropriate method because of its low variability. Cameriere's method is a widely accepted method of age estimation in children, which is carried out by measuring the projections of open apices and also the heights of developing permanent teeth seen on panoramic radiographs. The aim of this study is to establish a new formula for age estimation in the Western Indian population by measuring the open apices of mandibular teeth using Cameriere's European formula. For this study, we included 311 panoramic radiographs of healthy children living in Western India (Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa) aged 4-15 years which were analysed by two independent researchers. Seven left permanent mandibular teeth were assessed for length and width of open apices. Dental maturity was evaluated using measurements of the left seven permanent mandibular teeth (x i = A i /L i , i = 1,…, 7), the sum of the normalized open apices (s), and the number (N0) of teeth with complete root formation. A linear relationship between open apices, N0, age, and other factors was evaluated with the aid of a stepwise multiple regression model. A stepwise linear regression showed that all parameters, gender, s, N0, and x 5, were significantly associated with age (R = 85%). No statistically significant difference was found between the predicted and actual chronological age of children in the age group of 4-13 years using the regression equation for the Western Indian population. The present research suggests that the new regression formula developed will be more accurate for age assessment in the Western Indian population.

Comparison of pain perception between computer-controlled local anesthetic delivery and the conventional syringe for inferior alveolar nerve block in children.

BACKGROUND: Local anesthesia (LA) is commonly used for pain control in clinical dental practice. However, it is often perceived as the most painful part of the treatment and the factor leading to the avoidance of dental care. Hence, research on better means of pain management is being conducted. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare pain perception using the No Pain III™ computer-controlled local anesthesia delivery (CCLAD) system and the conventional syringe, for inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) in children. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty children aged 6-12 years were included in the study. Children were randomly allocated into 2 groups by the flip of a coin. Group A received LA by conventional syringe and group B received LA by No Pain III™, on the contralateral side. Physiological parameters including blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) and respiratory rate (RR) were assessed at baseline, during the deposition and after the deposition of LA. A subjective evaluation of pain perception was assessed using the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale (WBS). The measured values were subjected to statistical analysis. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was observed between group A and group B for pain perception using the WBS, systolic BP and RR. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the No Pain III™ CCLAD system resulted in reduced pain perception and better acceptance when compared to the use of the conventional syringe, for IANB in children.

Comparative Evaluation of Microleakage of Bioactive, Ormocer, and Conventional GIC Restorative Materials in Primary Molars: An In Vitro Study Microleakage of Three Restorative Materials.

This in vitro study aimed to evaluate and compare the microleakage of bioactive, ormocer, and conventional glass ionomer cement (GIC) restorative materials in primary molars. In this study, class V cavities were prepared on the buccal surface of 75 noncarious extracted primary molars. The teeth were then restored as per the groups assigned. Group A, group B, and group C used bioactive restorative materials, ormocer restorative materials, and conventional GIC restorative materials for restorations, respectively. The teeth were then thermocycled and subjected to microleakage analysis via dye penetration. The microleakage scores were compared for differences using the Kruskal-Wallis test. This was followed by multiple pairwise comparisons using the Dunn test. All testing was carried out using a 'p' value of <0.05. The percentage of samples showing microleakage score 0 depicting no dye penetration was highest for group A (56%) followed by group C (44%) and group B (12%). Statistical analysis revealed highest microleakage with group B, which was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Microleakage was evident in all the materials tested. The lowest microleakage was seen with bioactive restorative material.

Teledentistry: A Boon Amidst COVID-19 Lockdown-A Narrative Review.

The recent spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its associated coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has caused widespread public health concerns. Despite huge efforts to contain the disease spread, it is still on the rise because of the community spread pattern of this infection. In order to prevent the community spread, a nationwide lockdown was implemented, due to which many restrictions were imposed on movements of citizens within the country. Since the dental professionals were at the forefront of acquiring the infection, the majority of the dental clinics were shut for routine dental procedures. Only emergency treatment was provided to the patients. However, due to restrictions in movement, it was difficult for the patients to visit the clinics for routine check-ups. This was overcome by the advancements in technology which has a major impact on medicine. Due to increased usage of smartphones and related software applications, the clinical data exchange was facilitated between patients and clinicians which has been termed as "teledentistry." Teledentistry is a combination of telecommunications and dentistry, involving the exchange of clinical information and images for dental consultation and treatment planning. This technology served as a boon for the dentists to manage dental emergencies during the lockdown period. This narrative review discusses teledentistry and its applications in general and specialty dental practice amidst the COVID-19 lockdown.

Knowledge and awareness of school teachers regarding emergency management of dental trauma in school children of Navi Mumbai.

CONTEXT: Dental trauma is a serious oral health problem that can impair function and aesthetics, which affects the overall quality of life in children. AIMS: The aim of the present study was to identify the level of knowledge and awareness of school teachers regarding emergency management of dental trauma in school children of Navi Mumbai. The second objective was to correlate it with demographic characteristics and evaluate the need for oral health education programs for teachers. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: The present study is a cross-sectional survey and involved the completion of a self-administered anonymous questionnaire by teachers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 559 school teachers of primary and secondary sections completed the questionnaire comprising 19 questions. These included demographic data, knowledge regarding teeth most frequently affected by trauma, immediate action to be taken, awareness about storage media and the use of mouth guards. The questionnaire also assessed the willingness of teachers to participate in future training programs on dental trauma management. Data were statistically analysed using Chi-square test for any correlation. RESULTS: Among 559 school teachers who completed the questionnaire, 75.3% were females and 24.7% were males. Merely 6.6% of them agreed to have received prior training in dental trauma management. The majority of teachers (87.5%) were willing to attend training programs on dental trauma management. CONCLUSIONS: The knowledge and awareness of school teachers about dental trauma management and storage media for avulsed teeth is poor. Overall, they have a fair knowledge of dental trauma management in school children.

Comparative Evaluation of Shear Bond Strength of Bioactive Restorative Material, Zirconia Reinforced Glass Ionomer Cement and Conventional Glass Ionomer Cement to the Dentinal Surface of Primary Molars: an in vitro Study.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM: The success of dental restorations depends mainly on its ability to bond to dental structures and resist the multitude of forces acting on it within the oral cavity. PURPOSE: Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) of three different glass ionomer based restorative materials. MATERIALS AND METHOD: In this in vitro analytical study, 30 intact primary molars were sectioned buccolingually to obtain 60 sections. These sections were embedded in auto polymerizing acrylic resin and polished to obtain a flat dentin surface. Restoration cylinders were built on the dentin surface with the help of a Teflon template called bonding jig. Each group (n= 20) was restored as group A with conventional glass ionomer cement (GIC) (GC Fuji Gold Label Type 9), group B with Bioactive restorative material (ACTIVATM KIDS BioACTIVE Restorative material), and group C with Zirconia reinforced glass ionomer cement (Zirconomer). Following restoration, SBS testing was performed using Universal Testing Machine. The data obtained were statistically analyzed using One way ANOVA test and post hoc Tukey test (p= 0.05). RESULTS: The SBS values were significantly greater in the ACTIVA KIDS group as compared to the other two groups (p< 0.05). There was no significant difference in the SBS values between group B and group C (p> 0.05). CONCLUSION: The SBS of the ACTIVA KIDS to primary teeth dentin was the highest as compared to Zirconomer and conventional GIC. Therefore ACTIVA KIDS may protect primary teeth against recurrent caries and failure of the restoration.

Comparative evaluation of anesthetic efficacy of 4% articaine infiltration versus 2% lignocaine inferior alveolar nerve block for extraction of primary mandibular molars: A prospective, split-mouth, randomized controlled trial.

CONTEXT: Control of pain during dental treatment is an essential aspect of pediatric dentistry. AIMS: This study was conducted to evaluate and compare the anesthetic efficacy of 4% articaine buccal infiltration with 2% lignocaine inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) for primary mandibular molar extractions. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: The study was a prospective, split-mouth, randomized controlled trial. METHODS: Bilateral symmetrical carious primary mandibular molar (n = 92) extractions in 46 healthy children aged 5-10 years were included in this randomized controlled trial. Extraction was performed on one side using 4% of articaine buccal infiltration and on the contralateral side using 2% lignocaine IANB in two subsequent appointments. Pain and behavior were assessed at baseline, during injection and extraction using Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale, Modified Behavior Pain Scale (MBPS), and Frankl Behavior Rating Scale. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Values thus obtained were statistically analyzed by one-way analysis of variance test and compared using independent samples test. RESULTS: According to MBPS, the mean value of pain experienced in the form of cry during injection was reported to be more for 2% lignocaine IANB (1.76) as compared to 4% articaine buccal infiltration (1.30), which was statistically significant (P = 0.024). Comparison of behavior depicted showed no statistically significant difference between the groups. CONCLUSION: Buccal infiltration with 4% articaine can be utilized as an effective alternative to 2% lignocaine IANB for primary mandibular molar extractions.

Comparative Evaluation of Effect of Potassium Iodide and Glutathione on Tooth Discoloration after Application of 38% Silver Diamine Fluoride in Primary Molars: An In Vitro Study.

AIM: To evaluate and compare the effect of potassium iodide (KI) and glutathione (GSH) on tooth discoloration after application of 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in primary molars.Method: Total of 30 primary molars were randomly divided into three groups of 10 each. Teeth were prepared and divided into: Group A-SDF only, Group B-SDF followed immediately by application of KI, and Group C-SDF was mixed with 25 mg of GSH. Final restoration was done using glass ionomer cement. Visual examination and color assessments using spectrophotometer were recorded at three time interval points, that is, day 1, 1 week, and 4 weeks. RESULTS: Statistical analysis was done using a repeated measures analysis of variances (ANOVA) test. The spectrophotometer results showed that Group A (SDF) exhibited the greatest amount of discoloration at all time intervals, while Group C (SDF + GSH) group was effective in decreasing the discoloration. Whereas, Group B (SDF + KI) significantly reduced the discoloration over the period of time. (p = 0.008). CONCLUSION: KI can effectively reduce discoloration after application of 38% SDF. GSH can also be used as an alternative. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This two-step treatment for arresting caries can be a practical and low-cost option in areas with limited access to comprehensive dental care. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Kamble AN, Chimata VK, Katge F A, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Effect of Potassium Iodide and Glutathione on Tooth Discoloration after Application of 38% Silver Diamine Fluoride in Primary Molars: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2021;14(6):752-756.

Comparative assessment to determine the accuracy of Demirjian and DARLInG methods of dental age estimation in western Indian children.

The aim of this study is to compare the accuracy of Demirjian and Dental Age Research London Information Group (DARLInG) methods of dental age estimation in western Indian children. A total of 485 dental panoramic radiographs of children aged between 4 and 15 years were included in this study. Dental age was estimated based on the degree of mineralization of permanent teeth in the left side of the arch. Dental age was estimated from the scores obtained from the Demirjian and DARLInG's United Kingdom Caucasian datasets respectively. The difference between the chronological age (CA) and dental age (DA) in each range (CA-DA) was analysed using paired t-test. The age and sex-based differences of the estimated age using the two methods were tested using ANOVA and Pearson correlation co-efficient analysis. The overall mean CA was 8.74 years and 9.00 years for boys and girls respectively. The overall mean difference (CA-DA) using the Demirjian's method for boys and girls were -0.68 years and -0.52 years respectively (p < 0.05). Using the DARLInG's method, the overall mean difference (CA-DA) was -0.31 years and -0.34 years for boys and girls respectively (p < 0.05). Between the two methods, significant differences were observed in different age groups (p < 0.05). Pearson correlation coefficient showed significant positive correlation between dental age estimated from the Demirjian and DARLInG methods (p < 0.05). The DARLInG method provided better estimate of age compared to Demirjian method in the western Indian population. However, an ethnic specific reference dataset specific to this population would likely produce accurate age estimates.

COVID-19: Changing Trends and Its Impact on Future of Dentistry.

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) rapidly escalated into a worldwide pandemic, creating a global health and economic crisis. It is a novel virus which is distinct from SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, with Chinese horseshoe bats being the most probable origin. Transmission occurs primarily through droplet spread or contact routes. Due to the characteristics of dental settings, the risk of cross infection between dental health care personnel (DHCP) and patients can be very high. This article provides a brief overview of the structure of the virus, modes of transmission, and clinical features of COVID-19 disease. The aim of this article is to recommend infection control strategies and patient management protocols to provide optimum dental care and simultaneously prevent nosocomial infection in dental settings.

Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Eyeglasses as a Distraction Aid to Reduce Anxiety among 6-10-year-old Children Undergoing Dental Extraction Procedure.

INTRODUCTION: Distraction is commonly used nonpharmacologic pain management technique by pedodontists to manage pain and anxiety. There are some new techniques which uses audiovideo stimulation and distract the patient by exposing him or her to three-dimensional videos. These techniques are referred to as virtual reality audiovisual systems. The aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality eyeglasses as a distraction aid to reduce anxiety of children undergoing extraction procedure. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality eyeglasses as a distraction aid to reduce anxiety of children undergoing dental extraction procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty children of age 6-10 years (n = 60) with bilateral carious primary molars indicated for extraction were randomly selected and divided into two groups of 30 each. The first one was group I (VR group) (n = 30) and group II (control group) (n = 30). Anxiety was measured by using Venham's picture test, pulse rate and oxygen saturation. Anxiety level between group I and group II was assessed using paired "t" test. RESULTS: The mean pulse rate values after extraction procedure in group I were 107.833 ± 1.356 and group II were 108.4 ± 0.927 respectively. The pulse rate values in intergroup comparison were found statistically significant p = 0.03. CONCLUSION: The virtual reality used as a distraction technique improves the physiologic parameters of children aged 6-10 years but does not reduce the patient's self-reported anxiety according to Venham's picture test used. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Koticha P, Katge F, et al. Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Eyeglasses as a Distraction Aid to Reduce Anxiety among 6-10-year-old Children Undergoing Dental Extraction Procedure. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2019;12(4):297-302.

Root canal morphology of primary molars by clearing technique: An in vitro study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to study root canal morphology of primary molars by clearing technique and to observe for any variations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and twenty extracted primary molars were divided into four groups (n = 30); Group I = maxillary first, Group II = maxillary second, Group III = mandibular first, and Group IV = mandibular second. The samples were subjected to decalcification, clearing, and dye penetration. The data regarding the root canal morphology of each sample were tabulated based on the number of root canals, curvature of the root canal, and root canal configuration. Descriptive statistics were applied. RESULTS: According to Vertucci's root canal configuration in Group I, mesiobuccal root exhibited 93.10% Type I, 6.90% Type II, and 6.90% Type IV; distobuccal root had 95.65% Type I and 4.35% Type IV; and palatal roots had 100% Type I canal configuration. In Group II, mesiobuccal root showed 90% Type I and 10% Type IV; distobuccal root had 100% Type I; palatal root exhibited 96.30% Type I and 3.70% Type III. In Group III, mesial root showed 20% Type I, 6.67% Type III, and 73.33% Type IV and distal root had 76.67% Type I and 23.33% Type IV. In Group IV, mesial root exhibited 100% Type IV and distal root had 43.33% Type I and 65.67% Type IV canal anatomy. CONCLUSION: Vertucci's Type I root canal configurations were most frequently observed.

Comparative Analysis of 2 Calcium Silicate-based Cements (Biodentine and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate) as Direct Pulp-capping Agent in Young Permanent Molars: A Split Mouth Study.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to compare Biodentine and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) for direct pulp capping in young permanent molars by clinical and radiographic evaluation in 7- to 9-year-old children. METHODS: In 50 patients, 29 patients with bilateral asymptomatic first permanent molars with carious involvement were selected. According to split mouth design, these patients were then divided into 2 groups, Biodentine group (right side) and MTA group (left side). The pulp-capping procedure was performed by using Biodentine and MTA in 58 asymptomatic bilateral permanent molars with pulp exposure. At each recall (baseline, 6 and 12 months), treatment outcome was assessed clinically through pulpal sensitivity tests as well as radiographically to evaluate dentin bridge formation. RESULTS: The study reported 100% success rate with both Biodentine and MTA at baseline and 6- and 12-month follow-up on the basis of clinical and radiographic parameters. These findings were statistically non-significant (P < .05) between both groups (Biodentine and MTA). Radiographically, dentin bridge formation was not evident with both groups at baseline, but it was evident after 6- and 12-month follow-up. These findings were statistically non-significant (P < .05) in both Biodentine and MTA groups. CONCLUSIONS: This study reported 100% success rate with both MTA and Biodentine when used as direct pulp-capping agent in first permanent molars in 7- to 9-year-old children. The major limitations of the study were smaller sample size and short follow-up period.

Knowledge and attitude of Indian dentists regarding dental stem cells: A cross-sectional descriptive survey.

BACKGROUND: Dental stem cells derived from tooth structures are adult stem cells that have received attention of researchers over the past decade. Dental stem cells can be used to regenerate dental tissues as well as non dental organs. These dental stem cells are readily accessible as compared to other sources of stem cells and can be obtained and stored for future use through minimally invasive procedures. Research in this field is growing at a fast pace and it is essential that awareness regarding the same should be present amongst professionals. AIM: This study was carried out to assess the knowledge and attitude of Indian dentists regarding dental stem cells. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross sectional descriptive, questionnaire based survey based on Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) was conducted and a total of 823 dentists from Maharashtra, India participated in the survey. The Pearson's Chi-Square Test and percentages of the total were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 823 dentists completed the questionnaire survey; out of which 396 were male and 427 were female. Maximum respondents (53%) were dental graduates, followed by post graduates (45%) and PhD (1.7%). Data from the study revealed that there is good awareness regarding stem cells in general. However; the awareness, knowledge regarding sources, applications, uses and clinical research guidelines regarding dental stem cells is lacking amongst most dentists. Despite this lack of knowledge, dentists are keen on updating their knowledge regarding dental stem cells.

Sealing ability of mineral trioxide aggregate Plus™ and Biodentine™ for repair of furcal perforation in primary molars: An in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: One of the unfavorable outcomes of endodontic treatment in primary molars is furcal perforation. During treatment, bacterial infection at the site of perforation should be prevented for better prognosis. AIM: This study aims to compare sealing ability of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) Plus™ and Biodentine™ for the repair of furcal perforation in primary molars using spectrophotometry. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Access opening was done for all ninety extracted teeth. Perforation was made in furcation area in all the teeth. The sample size consisted of ninety extracted teeth. They were divided into four groups, Group 1 (n = 30) in which perforations were repaired with MTA Plus™, Group 2 (n = 30) in which perforations were repaired with Biodentine™. The other two groups were considered as control groups, Group 3 (n = 15) in which perforations were left unsealed (positive control) and Group 4 (n = 15) without perforations (negative control). Dye extraction method was used to compare the sealing ability of MTA Plus™ and Biodentine™. Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA test to compare the mean between the different groups. Intergroup comparison was performed using post hoc Scheffe test. RESULTS: The highest dye absorbance was seen in the positive control group with a mean value of 0.080 ± 0.033. The mean value of MTA Plus™ was 0.031 ± 0.026 and Biodentine™ was 0.024 ± 0.031. CONCLUSION: The mean value of dye absorption of MTA Plus™ was greater than Biodentine™ but it was statistically insignificant.