Frequency and features of medical emergencies at a teaching dental hospital in Saudi Arabia: a 14-year retrospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to determine the nature, frequency, and characteristics of medical emergencies occurring at the King Abdulaziz University Dental Hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The incident reports of medical emergencies recorded at the King Abdulaziz University Dental Hospital from January 2008 to December 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. The annual/overall incidence of medical emergency events was calculated per 100,000 patients. The following characteristics of the patients/events were evaluated: age, gender, operator, procedure, location, timing of treatment, administration of local anesthesia, past medical history, symptoms, diagnosis, outcome, and disposition. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to investigate the associations of these characteristics with two outcomes: syncope and transfer to the emergency room (ER). RESULTS: The incidence of emergency events was 17.4 per 100,000 patients. Syncope and hypoglycemia were the most common emergencies. Most incidents recovered, with only 13% requiring transfer to the ER. Undergoing no procedure and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class 2,3 were associated with syncope. Undergoing a general dental procedure, ASA class 2,3, and a diagnosis other than hypoglycemia and syncope were associated with transfer to the ER. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of medical emergencies was low. Dental practitioners need to remain aware of the contributing factors, such as past medical history and anxiety, but medical emergencies can occur in healthy individuals as well. Preparation of the dental office, training of the personnel, and proper recording of the events are essential components of a well-established medical emergency protocol in dental institutions.

Current status of biomedical waste management practices and barriers among private Jordanian dental clinics: A cross-sectional investigation of the capital Amman.

Biomedical waste management (BMWM) is vital in facilitating safe providing of healthcare. Developing countries suffer from the impact of mishandled biomedical waste (BMW) on the general public in addition to healthcare practitioners. Thus, this study aims to investigate the awareness and compliance of dental facilities to BMW regulations. Through a questionnaire designed as per the WHO guidelines on BMWM, we randomly recruited a total of 421 dental facilities representative of Jordan's capital. Mean BMWM practice scores were relatively high for the studied sample (0.748 ± 0.12). Nonetheless, while collection, transportation and storage standards were acceptable, those pertaining to segregation and disposal demonstrated lack of compliance to BMWM safety measures. An alarming number of participants dispose of infectious waste (40%), extracted teeth (48.5%), expired pharmaceuticals (44.4%), liquid chemicals (53.2%), X-ray films (35.0%) and solutions (48.7%) in the general trash or draining system. Such is attributed to either lack of resources, lack of proper equipment or poor awareness with BMWM guidelines. Moreover, it appears that location of the clinic (p < 0.001), occupation (p = 0.026) and presence of regulatory instructions (p = 0.048) were associated with higher BMWM scores. Overall, dental practitioners require proper training in terms of handling hazardous dental, chemical and radioactive wastes. Moreover, regulatory bodies should actively enforce regulations and monitoring, update current compliance legislations and subsidize eco-friendly practices.

Does glaze firing affect the strength of advanced lithium disilicate after simulated defects?

OBJECTIVE: To study the influence of glazing on strength repair of lithium disilicate glass-ceramics after defect incorporation in different production processing phases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bar-shaped specimens (1 × 1 × 12 mm, n = 280; 20/group) made from different lithium disilicate ceramics (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar, "LD" or advanced lithium disilicate CEREC Tessera, Dentsply Sirona, "ALD") were exposed to 7 different protocols: crystallized without (c) and with glaze layer (cg), with a defect incorporated before crystallization without (ic) and with glaze layer (icg), with a defect after crystallization without (ci) or with glaze layer (cig), and defect incorporated after the glaze layer (cgi). The flexural strength was determined using the three-point bending test. Analysis of indented areas and fractured specimens was performed by scanning electron microscopy. Flexural strength data were evaluated by two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey tests (α = 5%). RESULTS: Two-way ANOVA revealed a significant influence of ceramic (p < 0.001; F = 55.45), protocol (p < 0.001; F = 56.94), and the interaction protocol*ceramic (p < 0.001; F = 13.86). Regardless of ceramics, defect incorporation as final step resulted in the worst strength, while defects introduced before crystallization did not reduce strength. Glaze firing after defect incorporation led to strength repair for ALD, whereas such an effect was not evident for LD. CONCLUSIONS: The advanced lithium disilicate must receive a glaze layer to achieve its highest strength. Defects incorporated in the pre-crystallized stage can be healed during crystallization. Defects should not be incorporated after glazing. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Clinical adjustments should be performed on pre-crystallized or crystalized restorations that receive a glazer layer afterwards.

Treatment of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 and cross-infection in dental clinics in Korea.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to investigate patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) who visited dental clinics for treatment and to analyse the occurrence of additional COVID-19-confirmed cases according to the type of dental treatment and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). METHODS: Interviews were conducted in November 2021 via telephone, and written questionnaires were administered to dental hygienists working at the 24 dental clinics selected for the study, visited by patients with COVID-19. The survey focused on the visit date, the treatment received, whether or not the dental personnel wore PPE while treating the patient, and how the dental clinic and the public health centre with jurisdiction over the clinic responded after the patient's visit. RESULTS: Additional confirmed cases occurred in two of the 24 dental clinics included. In both cases, scaling was performed, dental personnel did not use a face shield, and patients with COVID-19 were asymptomatic. In 14 of the 22 dental clinics where additional confirmed cases did not occur, the dental personnel did not use face shields, and in 10 clinics, the dental personnel wore dental masks but not a KF94 mask. Based on these findings, which were obtained before the advent of the omicron variant, COVID-19 cross-infection did not appear to be high in dental clinics. CONCLUSION: The rate of COVID-19 cross-infection before the advent of the omicron variant appeared to be low in dental clinics in Korea. Therefore, patients have no reason to delay necessary dental treatment if dental personnel put effort into wearing PPE.

Aerosol reduction efficacy of different intra-oral suction devices during ultrasonic scaling and high-speed handpiece use.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant changes in the provision of dental services, aimed at reducing the spread of respiratory pathogens through restrictions on aerosol generating procedures (AGPs). Evaluating the risk that AGPs pose in terms of SARS-CoV-2 transmission is complex, and measuring dental aerosols is challenging. To date, few studies focus on intra-oral suction. This study sought to assess the effectiveness of commonly used intra-oral suction devices on aerosol mitigation. METHODS: Ultrasonic scaling and high-speed handpiece procedures were undertaken to generate aerosol particles. Multiple particle sensors were positioned near the oral cavity. Sensor data were extracted using single board computers with custom in-house Bash code. Different high-volume and low-volume suction devices, both static and dynamic, were evaluated for their efficacy in preventing particle escape during procedures. RESULTS: In all AGPs the use of any suction device tested resulted in a significant reduction in particle counts compared with no suction. Low-volume and static suction devices showed spikes in particle count demonstrating moments where particles were able to escape from the oral cavity. High-volume dynamic suction devices, however, consistently reduced the particle count to background levels, appearing to eliminate particle escape. CONCLUSIONS: Dynamic high-volume suction devices that follow the path of the aerosol generating device effectively eliminate aerosol particles escaping from the oral cavity, in contrast to static devices which allow periodic escape of aerosol particles. Measuring the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in a dental setting is multi-factorial; however, these data suggest that the appropriate choice of suction equipment may further reduce the risk from AGPs.

Methodology for Addressing Infectious Aerosol Persistence in Real-Time Using Sensor Network.

Human exposure to infectious aerosols results in the transmission of diseases such as influenza, tuberculosis, and COVID-19. Most dental procedures generate a significant number of aerosolized particles, increasing transmission risk in dental settings. Since the generation of aerosols in dentistry is unavoidable, many clinics have started using intervention strategies such as area-filtration units and extraoral evacuation equipment, especially under the relatively recent constraints of the pandemic. However, the effectiveness of these devices in dental operatories has not been studied. Therefore, the ability of dental personnel to efficiently position and operate such instruments is also limited. To address these challenges, we utilized a real-time sensor network for assessment of aerosol dynamics during dental restoration and cleaning producers with and without intervention. The strategies tested during the procedures were (i) local area High-Efficiency Particle Air (HEPA) filters and (ii) Extra-Oral Suction Device (EOSD). The study was conducted at the University of Washington School of Dentistry using a network of 13 fixed sensors positioned within the operatory and one wearable sensor worn by the dental operator. The sensor network provides time and space-resolved particulate matter (PM) data. Three-dimensional (3D) visualization informed aerosol persistence in the operatory. It was found that area filters did not improve the overall aerosol concentration in dental offices in a significant way. A decrease in PM concentration by an average of 16% was observed when EOSD equipment was used during the procedures. The combination of real-time sensors and 3D visualization can provide dental personnel and facility managers with actionable feedback to effectively assess aerosol transmission in medical settings and develop evidence-based intervention strategies.

Cost of providing a mobile dental service for dependent older people.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Dental care provision in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) is often a problem despite the high demand. LTCF residents would greatly benefit from a concept that provides an onsite dental care. A rational evaluation of the costs to render this service as well as the cost benefits is worth investigating. This study aimed to calculate the costs involved in providing a mobile dental clinic (MDC) service for LTCF residents in Zurich, Switzerland. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cost models for setting up, executing and maintaining an MDC unit were generated. The costs included personnel, equipment/material, maintenance and running costs. The treatment costs were calculated for the treatment in MDC, university-setting dental clinic (UC) and private practice (PP). Hypothetical cost estimates were generated for the return of the invested capital. Costs incurred for the institutions for accommodating the MDC visit were also calculated. RESULTS: The set-up capital required to start a MDC in Switzerland (for 2020) was approximately around CHF 505'007.90 (Euros 466'576.80) and was around CHF 452'666.48 (Euros 418'218.56) when a dental care professional (DCP) substituted the dentist. The estimated cost savings for an LTCF resident in the MDC were CHF 205.60 (Euros 189.95) when compared to a UC and approximately CHF 226.34 (Euros 209.12) when compared to a PP. With the dentist, the return of the invested capital can be expected by 3 years while it would take around 6 years with the DCP, assuming that the maximum number of patients possible-to-treat are treated every year. The daily running costs for the LTCF for accommodating the MDC visit were approximately CHF 299.04 (Euros 276.28). CONCLUSIONS: Delivery of oral health services for LTCF residents through the use of a MDC service seems to be an effective model for dependent elders with limited access to care. However, the costs of maintaining this service are high with similarly large start-up costs. Future development of this model by utilising dental care professionals may produce cost savings but with a more limited range of services offered.

A five-step risk management process for geriatric dental practice during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an RNA virus that causes coronavirus infection (COVID-19). COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease transmitted through respiratory droplets, saliva and other contact routes. Within 10 months of its outbreak, SARS-CoV-2 has infected more than 23 million people around the world. Evidence suggests that older adults are the most vulnerable to infection and have an increased risk of mortality. Reduced immunity and underlying medical conditions make them risk-prone and vulnerable to critical care. Older adults affected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus present with distinct clinical manifestations necessitating specific treatment needs and management protocols. While it is crucial to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), the role of oral healthcare workers in addressing the specific needs of ageing adult patients by adopting specific guidelines and appropriate infection control protocols is timely. This paper aims to develop specific guidelines and protocols for the dental management of geriatric patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dental practice closure during the first wave of COVID-19 and associated professional, practice and structural determinants: a multi-country survey.

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) in China has influenced every aspect of life worldwide. Given the unique characteristics of the dental setting, the risk of cross-infection between dental practitioners and patients is high in the absence of adequate protective measures, and dentists may develop severe anxiety in relation to the current pandemic. The limited provision of services and widespread closure of dental practices have raised concerns among dental professionals about the financial impact. The present study assessed the frequency of dental practice closure during the pandemic's first wave in several countries and whether closures and their associated factors differ between the private and non-private sectors. METHODS: An electronic cross-sectional survey questionnaire was sent to dentists in several countries, from April to May 2020. The survey assessed professional, practice related and country-level structural factors elucidating the reason for practice closure. Multilevel logistic regression was used to assess the association between practice closure and these factors, and differences were evaluated by sector type. RESULTS: Dentists from 29 countries (n = 3243) participated in this study. Most of the participants (75.9%) reported practice closure with significantly higher percentage in the private sector than the non-private sector. Greater pandemic-related fears were associated with a significantly higher likelihood of practice closure in the private (odds ratio [OR] = 1.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.24, 1.92) and non-private (OR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.04, 1.82) sectors. Dentists in non-private rural areas (OR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.42, 0.81), and those in hospitals (overall OR = 0.60, 95% CI 0.36, 0.99) reported a low likelihood of closure. A high likelihood of closure was reported by dentists in the academia (OR = 2.13, 95% CI 1.23, 3.71). More hospital beds at the country-level were associated with a lower likelihood of closure in the non-private sector (OR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.46, 0.91). Private- sector dentists in high- income countries (HICs) reported fewer closures than those in non-HICs (OR = 0.55, 95% CI 0.15, 1.93). CONCLUSIONS: Most dentists reported practice closure because of COVID-19, and greater impacts were reported in the private sector than in the non-private sector. Closure was associated with professional, practice, and country-levels factors.

Nursing strategies for COVID-19 prevention and control in a selected dental clinic.

AIM: To comprehensively introduce the prevention and control measures that we can take in dental clinics during the pandemic period of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and provide some practical experience for the development of nursing and health policies applicable to COVID-19. BACKGROUND: The outbreak of COVID-19 has placed the global health system under threat, which seriously influences the normal operations of human society. Safe and effective nursing measures should be taken to ensure the normal operation of dental clinics. SOURCES OF EVIDENCE: We searched and referenced many references on the PubMed database. Through the combination of related literatures and our experience, we describe various strategies, including personnel management, personal protection, disinfection and isolation, adopted in the dental clinic of our Chinese hospital during the pandemic of COVID-19. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS: We introduced strategies for the nursing staff in dental clinics to assist them with the prevention and control of COVID-19. The successful implementation of the protective measures could ensure the safety of medical staff and patients, and contributed to the normal operation of dental clinics during the pandemic period. CONCLUSIONS FOR NURSING AND HEALTH POLICY: During the pandemic, frontline nurses are under physical and mental pressure facing the threat of infection while at work. In addition to pandemic prevention, we should also pay attention to the needs of nursing staff. More reasonable and effective nursing and health policies should be formulated to ensure their safety and protect their rights and interests. This is the only way that the prevention and control of COVID-19 can be achieved, and we can prepare for future public health events.

Regular dental attendance and periodontal health knowledge: A cross-sectional survey.

OBJECTIVES: To explore dental clinics' performance on periodontal education by comparing knowledge about periodontal health of regular and inconsistent dental attenders. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A population-based study with a cross-sectional design was performed in Galicia (Northwestern Spain). Participants were randomly selected from 16 different areas and a questionnaire applied face-to-face. The survey included items on socio-demographic features, habits and routines, periodontal status and periodontal health knowledge. Participants were grouped according to the median of overall knowledge, and a logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the relationship between good periodontal knowledge and frequency of dental visits. RESULTS: A total of 8,206 individuals were invited to enter the study, and 3,553 of them accepted the invitation (43.3%). Most participants (59.3%; n = 1,945) fit within the regular dental attenders' group. Younger women holding a university degree and visiting their dentist regularly elicited higher knowledge about periodontal health. Regular use of dental services increased the chances of being in the higher knowledge group (OR: 1.67; 95% CI: 1.40-2.00). CONCLUSIONS: Reported regular dental attendance is related to periodontal health knowledge. Specific interventions for promoting tailored patient education on periodontal topics during routine dental visits may have a positive effect on laypersons' knowledge about periodontal health.

A randomized clinical trial of class II composite restorations using direct and semidirect techniques.

OBJECTIVE: This prospective study evaluated the clinical performance of large class II restorations made with different techniques over 24 months. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty patients received two class II restorations (n = 60) using a nanohybrid composite and different restorative techniques (direct (DT), semidirect (SDT)), in a split-mouth randomized design. The same adhesive system was applied for all restorations. For DT, the restorative material was applied directly inside the tooth preparation. For SDT, a tooth preparation impression was obtained using alginate and a silicone flexible die was prepared. The restoration was made chairside on the model and additionally light cured. After that, it was cemented in preparation using resinous cement. All restorations were evaluated using the FDI criteria after 7 days, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. RESULTS: After 24 months, 24 patients attended the recall and 48 restorations were evaluated. Fisher's statistical analysis (5%) showed no difference between the techniques. Nevertheless, Friedman's test showed significant differences for some criteria after 12 months of evaluation for both techniques. Postoperative sensitivity was reported in one DT restoration. Also, after 24 months, one SDT restoration presented marginal fracture, which was deemed unsatisfactory. CONCLUSIONS: After a 24-month follow-up, no significant difference between the tested techniques was detected. The restorations performed with both techniques produced clinically acceptable restorations. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study demonstrated the viability of applying two different operatory techniques (direct and semidirect) for class II resin composite restorations.

Mission of Mercy emergency dental clinics: an opportunity to promote general and oral health.

BACKGROUND: Mission of Mercy (MOM) emergency dental clinics are a resource for populations lacking access to dental care. We designed a MOM event incorporating health equity components with established community partners who shared a common vision of addressing the oral health, physical health, and social service needs of Maryland and Washington, DC area residents. Although studies have explored associations between oral and chronic health conditions, few studies to our knowledge have examined the relationship between these conditions and receipt of dental services. Therefore, this study explored these associations and the opportunity for better care coordination. METHODS: Oral health data from the 2014 Mid-Maryland Mission of Mercy and Health Equity Festival event was analyzed. A descriptive analysis assessed frequencies and percentages of participant sociodemographics characteristics, oral health and chronic disease risk(s), and dental services delivered. Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression were conducted to determine the associations between 1) oral health and chronic disease risk(s) and dental services; and 2) oral health and chronic disease risk(s) and participant characteristics. RESULTS: Approximately 66.2% (n = 666) of the 1007 participants had one or more chronic conditions and/or risk factors (diabetes, high blood pressure, and tobacco use). These individuals had a significantly higher likelihood of receiving an oral surgery procedure (specifically, tooth extraction) (only one condition/risk: OR = 2.40, 95%, CI = 1.48-3.90, p < .001; two conditions/risks: OR = 3.12, 95% CI = 1.78-5.46, p < .001). CONCLUSION: The 2014 Mid-Maryland Mission of Mercy emergency dental clinic attracted people with risk factors for oral and chronic diseases. Those with one or more risk factors were more likely to receive oral surgery (specifically, tooth extraction). These findings strongly suggest that organizers of MOM emergency dental clinics include wrap-around primary care, health promotion and disease prevention services along with provision of dental services. While such events will not solve the general and oral health challenges of participants, we believe they provide an opportunity to provide basic preventive services. These findings also present an opportunity to inform planning for future MOMs and emphasize the importance of using these public health events to create linkages with other services to support follow-up and care coordination.

Exploring the advantages of using social network sites (SNSs) in dental medicine organisations.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to deepen and contribute to knowledge of the use of social network sites (SNSs) in organisations, and more precisely, identify the advantages. Design/methodology/approach To reach this objective, a cross-section study was adopted based on application of a questionnaire, the final sample consisting of 78 dental medicine organisations in Portugal. Findings The results obtained lead to the conclusion that a great number of the organisations studied are connected to SNSs, particularly Facebook. The advantages associated with marketing tools and breaking down barriers between the organisation and the world are those highlighted most in this study. Practical implications According to the empirical evidence obtained, organisations are found to use these sites for other purposes, such as communicating with clients/patients and receiving feedback on the service provided to increase satisfaction and improve the quality of services. Originality/value The study contributes to advancing theory in the field of internet research strategic. More precisely, this study is associated with the creation of a theoretical framework that shows the advantages of using SNSs in an innovative context: dental medicine organisations. A categorisation of these advantages and some implications for theory and practice are also some contributions of this study.

Using Quality Improvement Methods to Implement an Early Childhood Oral Health Initiative: A Federally Qualified Health Center Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the use of quality improvement (QI) methods to implement an early childhood oral health program (Baby Oral Health Program-bOHP) in four federally qualified health center (FQHC) dental clinics. STUDY DESIGN: Using a mixed-methods study design, survey responses, administrative data, QI project templates, and focus group measures were collected. Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles as mini-projects to improve the implementation of bOHP were examined. Data analysis included descriptive qualitative reviews and quantitative statistics at baseline, six, and 12 months following the intervention. RESULTS: Twenty-three dental team providers in one urban and three rural clinics participated. Successful QI mini-projects included shortening time period between accepted referral and patient visits, improved documentation of caregiver interview, and efficiency of the infant oral health examination. Lack of change in provider confidence was observed, regardless of years of practice (p=0.93), years of employment (p=0.39), and dental team age (p=0.85). Qualitative reviews highlighted mixed QI results related to training and limited resources invested on follow-up of QI implementation. CONCLUSIONS: A low cost, low resource pilot QI program as part of bOHP implementation showed mixed success, highlighting the critical role of training, staff committment, and leadership support to assure sustainable oral health programs in high-risk populations.

Framework for managing inappropriate behavior in clinical dental learning environments.

BACKGROUND: Workplace violence (WPV), such as physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening behavior, commonly occurs within healthcare settings including dentistry. The objective of this study was to analyze the behavioral and environmental factors contributing to WPV, determine its prevalence within one dental institution, and develop a WPV prevention and management protocol that is dental specific. METHODS: To identify factors that impact WPV occurrence, the PRECEDE-PROCEED planning model was employed. A pilot cross-sectional survey was then conducted among faculty, staff, and dental learners (students/residents) to evaluate the prevalence of WPV incidents experienced and witnessed over the past year. The survey also assessed the locations where incidents took place, their type, and the strategies employed to manage them. A comprehensive protocol aimed at preventing and managing WPV in dental settings was subsequently developed. RESULTS: Multiple factors influence the occurrence of WPV. The prevalence of experienced and witnessed WPV incidents was 22% and 24% among faculty/staff and 7% and 5% among learners, respectively. Verbal aggression was the most common type of WPV. Most respondents lacked awareness of the available reporting mechanisms for WPV. A WPV prevention and management protocol was developed, consisting of five steps: intervene, report, document, access support services, and resolve (IRDAR). CONCLUSIONS: Administrators must have a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence of violence in their workplace and the underlying factors that contribute to it in order to take appropriate action. IRDAR is a clearly defined and easily implemented protocol designed for preventing and managing WPV in dental learning environments.

Dental needs and conditions of individuals with Lowe syndrome: An observational study.

INTRODUCTION: Lowe syndrome (LS) is an uncommon condition that affects the brain, kidneys, nervous system, and eyes, predominantly in males. The aim of this study was to examine dental conditions, dental treatments, and access and/or barriers to care for those with LS compared to healthy individuals. METHODS: Surveys assessing dental conditions, dental treatments, and access and/or barriers to care were administered to families in the Lowe Syndrome Association and families with healthy children who had dental appointments at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) pediatric dental clinic. One parent or a guardian of pediatric patients with LS or not at TUSDM was asked to complete an online survey. RESULTS: One hundred and eight surveys were obtained (n:58 from the LS group and n:50 from the healthy group). The LS group was significantly more likely (p < .05) to report "crooked/misaligned teeth," "difficult time chewing," "bad breath," and "mouth cysts" and was significantly less likely to report 6-month examination, "cleaning," and "filling." The LS group reported significantly greater difficulty locating a dentist. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicate that individuals with LS are more vulnerable to developing severe dental conditions and experiencing difficulties in accessing dental care than healthy individuals. Additionally, those who present with this syndrome may be less likely to receive specific necessary dental treatments. As a result, it is essential to offer appropriate dental care and support to individuals with LS to guarantee they achieve optimal oral health.

Lebanese Dentists' Preparedness to Deal With Medical Emergencies in Their Clinics: A National Survey.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Health-related emergencies, from minor incidents to life-threatening situations, can occur unexpectedly in dental clinics. Ensuring that dentists and their teams are well-prepared with adequate training and essential equipment is crucial. Proper preparedness can lead to effective management of emergencies and reduce potential complications. This cross-sectional national study aimed at assessing the preparedness of Lebanese dentists in managing medical emergencies. METHODS: Data was collected between August and October 2024 using an online questionnaire which was distributed to all registered Lebanese dentists through the Lebanese Dental Associations located in Beirut and Tripoli. RESULTS: The study found that 38.2% of dentists had an emergency kit in their clinics, and 88.0% had some emergency equipment; yet only 5.9% had a defibrillator. While 71.3% had emergency training in university, 28.5% never received it. Only 18.8% reported staff training in medical emergencies. Most dentists (74.2%) encountered minor medical issues, and 22.4% faced major emergencies, with only 1.8% reporting cardiac arrest cases. Vasovagal reactions, hypoglycemia, and orthostatic hypotension were common emergencies. While 69.0% felt capable of managing minor issues, confidence dropped for major emergencies and specific procedures. An overwhelming 87.8% expressed a need for more emergency training. Post-graduation training, prior defibrillator use, and having an emergency kit were linked to better emergency management capabilities in the logistic regressions. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicate significant gaps in emergency preparedness among Lebanese dentists. Many lack adequate training and resources, highlighting the urgent need for further training and better-equipped clinics. Strengthening policy frameworks and resource allocation is crucial. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Stakeholders should prioritize implementing mandatory training programs and developing clear guidelines to ensure that dental clinics in Lebanon are adequately prepared to manage health-related emergencies effectively.

Knowledge of ocular infections among the dental practitioners across India: a cross sectional survey.

BACKGROUND: Ocular issues such as impaired vision, ophthalmia, orbital cellulitis, and blindness are not common with dental infections. However, there is absence of set guidelines in prevention and management of ocular issues arising from dental infections. Hence the knowledge and vantage point of the dentists with respect to ocular complications arising from dental infections was evaluated. OBJECTIVE: This study reviews the knowledge of dentists with association of eye infection due to dental contamination. METHOD: A cross sectional survey using standardized questionnaires were sent suing social media platform among the academicians and practicing dental clinicians. All the questionnaires were content validated by three ophthalmologists. Descriptive statistics was scrutinized and tabulated by employing the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 17 (SPSS Inc., Chicago IL). Chi square tests was used. RESULTS: About 69.1%(65) and 30.9%( 29) of BDS and MDS grduates have experienced ocular complications because of dental contamination. This distribution showed no statistical significance (p = 0.25). 73.8% (183) and 28.2%( 65) had compliance with the eye protection, 77.7% (160) of BDS graduates and 22.3% (46) of MDS graduates preferred safety eye wear. This distribution showed statistical significance (p = 0.00). About 76.2% (279) of BDS graduates and 23.8%( 67) of MDS graduates faced ocular infections because of different types of splashes which included water, blood and saliva. (p = 0.23) CONCLUSION: This study puts an emphasis on the knowledge assessment among the dental practitioners on the importance of preventive barriers, and how special protective gear is required for doing cases undergoing dental treatment.

Distribution of Private Dental Healthcare Facilities in Riyadh City: A GIS-Based Approach.

BACKGROUND: The dental healthcare private sector in Riyadh city has been growing rapidly over the past few years; however, there is a lack of information on the accessibility and spatial distribution of private dental healthcare facilities (PDHFs) in the area. This study aimed to evaluate the spatial distribution of PDHFs in Riyadh city in relation to population density in each sub-municipality. METHODS: The current information regarding the number, location, and operability of PDHFs in Riyadh city was obtained from the Ministry of Health. A total of 632 operating PDHFs were included with the precise location plotted on Quantum Geographic Information System software (version 3.32.1, Essen, Germany) using Google Earth. Four levels of buffer zones-1 km, 3 km, 5 km, and >5 km-were determined. The population statistics and mean monthly individual income per district were gathered from Zadd.910ths. Microsoft Excel (version 16.0, Microsoft, Redmond, WA, USA) and RStudio software (version 4.1.3, Posit Software, PBC, Boston, MA, USA) were used for additional data analysis. RESULTS: There was an overall ratio of one PDHF per 9958 residents in Riyadh city. Olaya and Maather sub-municipalities had the largest PDHF-to-population ratios: (1:4566) and (1:4828), respectively. Only 36.3% of the city's total area was within a 1 km buffer zone from a PDHF. There was an overall weak positive correlation between the number of PDHFs and the total area in each sub-municipality (r = 0.29), and the distribution of PDHFs was uneven corresponding to the area (G* = 0.357). CONCLUSIONS: There was an uneven distribution of PDHFs in Riyadh city. Some areas were underserved while others were overserved in several sub-municipalities. Policy-makers and investors are encouraged to target underserved areas rather than areas with significant clustering to improve access to care.