ABSTRACT
AIM: This study was to evaluate saliva parameters of identical and non identical twins with their dental caries and oral hygiene status. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted to assess the oral health status and investigate the salivary parameters of identical and nonidentical twins in Kodhini Village, Kerala. The WHO Oral Health Assessment Form was used to record the oral health status. The Simplified Oral Hygiene Index and Gingival Bleeding Index were also included. Unstimulated saliva was collected. Immunoglobulin A levels in saliva was estimated by Turbidimetric Immunoassay. Salivary Cortisol was analysed using ELISA method. For TAC thiobarbituric acid reactive from Fenton's reaction. RESULTS: Since the absolute difference of the salivary parameters between the pairs of twins was not symmetrically distributed, we report median and interquartile range to describe these differences. There were no observed significant variations in the above salivary parameters. CONCLUSION: The similarity in their environmental factors as well as perhaps the similar genetic predisposition on salivary factors has led to the similarity in the dental caries experience in these twin children.
ABSTRACT
Have dentists paused to think as to where the gloves, fixer, plastic waste, mercury waste, and X-ray films used in the clinic end up after disposal? Or considered how much water, electricity, and other resources our dental clinics use? Dentists need to take off their tinted glasses and consider the effects of their dental practice on the planet. Though individual dentists generate only small amounts of dental waste, the accumulated waste produced by the profession may have significant environmental impact. Thus the concept of “green dentistry” or “ecofriendly dentistry” has evolved. Eco-friendly dentistry is an environmentally friendly way of practicing dentistry by using techniques and equipment to reduce waste, conserve energy, decrease pollution, and reduce our carbon footprint. The incorporation of eco-friendly dentistry to the dental practice is not only effective from an environmental perspective but is cost-effective for the dentist too. If a dental practitioner is looking for a way to distinguish his clinic from the others, eco-friendly dentistry could be the answer. This article reviews the scientific literature on eco-friendly dentistry and suggests comprehensive steps to start an eco-friendly dental practice.