Improvement in awareness levels and periodontal health among patients undergoing fixed orthodontic appliance therapy with established gingivitis and periodontal health maintenance program: a questionnaire based study / Mejora de los niveles de conciencia y salud periodontal entre pacientes sometidos a terapia con aparatos de ortodoncia fijos con gingivitis establecida y programa de mantenimiento de la salud periodontal: un estudio basado en cuestionarios

Objetive: Home oral care practices in patients undergoing orthodontic therapy are often ineffective in maintaining optimal plaque control. The aim of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of periodontal maintenance program in subjects with established gingivitis undergoing fixed orthodontic appliance therapy for one year. Material and Methods: Forty patients undergoing fixed orthodontic appliance therapy with established chronic gingivitis were recruited for the study. As a part of a periodontal maintenance program, a pre-validated structured questionnaire evaluating oral hygiene and periodontal health was administered at the baseline as well as at the end of the study. At the baseline Gingival Bleeding Index, Gingival Index, and Bonded Bracket Plaque Index scores were recorded, Scaling and polishing procedure was performed followed by a customised Oral Hygiene Advice (OHA) session was conducted for all the study subjects. Clinical indices were assessed and OHA was conducted at the 3rd, 6th, 9th, and 12th months of orthodontic treatment visits. Results: There was significant improvement in the clinical indices and awareness regarding oral hygiene and periodontal health level in the patients at the end of the 12th month. Conclusion: The periodontal maintenance program appeared to be effective in improving the periodontal health and awareness health awareness level about oral hygiene among patients undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy at the end of 12 months in our study population.

Objetivo: Las prácticas de cuidado bucal en el hogar en pacientes sometidos a terapia de ortodoncia suelen ser ineficaces para mantener un control óptimo de la placa. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la efectividad del programa de mantenimiento periodontal en sujetos con gingivitis establecida sometidos a terapia con aparatos de ortodoncia fijos durante un año. Material y Métodos: Se reclutó para el estudio a 40 pacientes sometidos a terapia con aparatos de ortodoncia fijos y con gingivitis crónica establecida. Como parte de un programa de mantenimiento periodontal, se administró un cuestionario estructurado pre-validado que evaluaba la higiene bucal y la salud periodontal al inicio y al final del estudio. En la línea de base, se registraron las puntuaciones del índice de sangrado gingival, el índice gingival y el índice de placa de soporte adherido, se realizó el procedimiento de raspado y pulido seguido de una sesión personalizada de consejos de higiene oral (CHO) para todos los sujetos del estudio. Se evaluaron los índices clínicos y se llevó a cabo la CHO a los 3, 6, 9 y 12 meses durante las visitas de tratamiento de ortodoncia. Resultados: Hubo una mejora significativa en los índices clínicos y la conciencia sobre la higiene oral y el nivel de salud periodontal en los pacientes al final del 12º mes. Conclusión: El programa de mantenimiento periodontal pareció ser eficaz para mejorar la salud periodontal y el nivel de conciencia de la salud sobre la higiene bucal entre los pacientes sometidos a terapia de ortodoncia fija al final de los 12 meses en nuestra población de estudio.

Lack of association between dietary inflammatory index and low impact fractures in the Brazilian population: the Brazilian Osteoporosis Study (BRAZOS)

Abstract Introduction: Adequate nutrition, including intake of dietary calcium and vitamin D, is important to maintain bone health. Evidence suggests that a deficiency in micronutrients may contribute to bone loss during aging and exert generalized effects on chronic inflammation. Recently, the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) was developed to assess the inflammatory potential of individual diets. Our aim was to evaluate the DII in a representative sample and verify its association with low-impact fractures. Methods: Individuals from The Brazilian Osteoporosis Study (BRAZOS) database had their DII calculated. BRAZOS is an important cross-sectional epidemiological study carried out with a representative sample of men and women ≥40 years old. The research was conducted through in-home interviews administered by a trained team. Nutrition Database System for Research (NDSR) software was used to analyze data on the intake of nutrients, which were employed to calculate the DII using Statistical Analysis Software (SAS®) and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS®) to assess its association with low-impact fractures. Results: A total of 2269 subjects had their DII score calculated using information from 24-h recall data. Males had lower DII than females (DII = 1.12 ± 1.04 vs DII = 1.24 ± 0.99, p = 0.012). Women taking statins had lower DII (DII = 0.65 ±1.14 vs DII + 1.26 ± 0.98, p = 0.002), indicating a greater potential for diet-related anti-inflammatory effects. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that women might have a pro-inflammatory diet pattern compared to men. However, we did not find any association between DII scores and low-impact fractures.

Knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women about oral health / Conocimientos y actitudes de las mujeres embarazadas sobre la salud oral

There are evidences that maternal profile, habits and health knowledge, influence in the oral health of children. The aim of this study was to assess pregnant women knowledge on oral hygiene practices and maintenance of Baby´s oral cavity. A descriptive epidemiological survey was conducted with 147 pregnant women. Sample was predominantly formed by young women and 33.33 % had incomplete primary education and most were housewives with family income between 1-2 minimum wages. Family was considered the primary means in the transfer of information about oral hygiene.

Hay evidencia de que los perfiles, hábitos y conocimientos de la salud influyen en la salud oral de los niños. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el conocimiento de las mujeres embarazadas en las prácticas de higiene oral y el cuidado de la cavidad oral del bebé. Una encuesta epidemiológica se llevó a cabo en 147 mujeres embarazadas. La muestra estuvo compuesta predominantemente por mujeres jóvenes, de las cuales el 33,33 % no había completado la escuela primaria y la mayoría eran amas de casa con ingresos familiares entre 1-2 salarios mínimos. La familia fue considerado el principal medio de transmisión de información sobre la higiene oral.

Creencias y prácticas de salud bucal de padres de párvulos: estudio cualitativo / Beliefs and practices of oral health in parents of pre-school children: a qualitative study

Dentro de los procesos patológicos bucales, la caries dental constituye una enfermedad de alta prevalencia, siendo prevenible con medidas de higiene bucal fácilmente adquiribles desde temprano en la vida. Desde los 90 en Chile se ha direccionado la instalación del hábito del cepillado dental diario, al menos 2 veces al día, con pasta fluorada como medida preventiva en niños de 6 y más años, abarcando luego a párvulos, según la evidencia disponible. Objetivo Explorar las creencias, conocimientos y prácticas de los padres y/o apoderados de preescolares de 2 y 3 años, de una comuna urbana de la región metropolitana Lo Prado. Método Investigación cualitativa, con diseño descriptivo de una muestra no probabilística, homogénea, de 14 apoderados mediante entrevistas en profundidad. Resultados Los resultados de las descripciones hechas por las madres y/o padres de los párvulos generó categorías: 1) importancia de la salud bucal y su cuidado; 2) encargado del cuidado de la salud bucal; 3) uso de pasta de dientes fluoradas; 4) percepción de la salud bucal del párvulo; 5) uso de estímulos positivos o negativos asociados; y 6) necesidad de mayor información para el cuidado de la salud bucal. Conclusiones La salud bucal se percibe correlacionada con una buena apariencia, siendo importante una buena higiene para lograrla, a lo que se suma el consumo de pocos hidratos de carbono. Las mujeres son las encargadas de transmitir el conocimiento, enseñar y supervisar la higiene de los menores, quedando el resto de la familia relegada a un plano de apoyo.

Among oral pathologies, dental caries is the one that is easy to prevent with dental hygiene measures. Since the 1990's, oral health education has aimed at instilling the habit of tooth brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to prevent this disease. However, there is a need to understand the effect of the context on the expected outcomes. Objective This study aimed to determine the oral health practices of parents of pre-school children in an urban community of the Metropolitan Region of Chile, Lo Prado. Method This was a qualitative study with a descriptive design, and a non-probabilistic sample of 14 parents, using in-depth interviews. Results The analysis of the results was performed starting from transcription and codification of the descriptions made by the mothers, generating categories: (1) Oral health care, (2) persons in charge of teaching the tooth brushing habit, (3) use of fluoride dentifrices, (4) perception of oral health status, (5) associated positive or negative stimuli, and (6) the need for more information on oral health issues. Conclusions Oral health is perceived to correlate with a good appearance, and to attain it, a good oral hygiene is considered important, along with a reduction in the amount of carbohydrates ingested. Women are the ones that are socially in charge of the establishment and maintenance of this habit.

Condições periodontais e de higiene bucal, qualidade de vida e satisfação com a vida em pacientes obesos diabéticos e não diabéticos submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica / Periodontal conditions and oral hygiene, quality of life and satisfaction with life in obese diabetic and nondiabetic patients undergoing bariatric surgery

Objetivou-se avaliar as condições periodontais e de higiene bucal, qualidade de vida e satisfação geral com a vida em pacientes obesos diabéticos e não diabéticos submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica (CB). Estudo observacional longitudinal prospectivo que contou com amostra inicial de 150 indivíduos (G1- obesos diabéticos n=50; G2-obesos não diabéticos, n=50 e G3-eutróficos, n=50). G1 e G2 foram submetidos à CB e avaliados após seis (PO 6m, G1-n=18; G2-n=34) e 12 meses (PO 12m, G1-n=10; G2-n=15). Utilizou-se Índice de Massa Corpórea (IMC), Circunferências da Cintura (CC) e Quadril (CQ) e Relação Cintura-Quadril (RCQ). Os exames bucais foram realizados por um examinador (Kappa>0,81), avaliando sangramento (S), profundidade de sondagem (PS), nível de inserção clínica (NIC), índice de placa (IP), gengivite, periodontite e dentes perdidos. Aplicouse OHIP-14 e Escala de Satisfação com a Vida (SV), além do registro das condições socioeconômicas, hábitos e história médica. Na análise dos dados foram aplicados Análise de Variância pós teste Tukey, Kruskal-Wallis pós teste Dun, Friedman, teste t-Student, Mann-Whitney, Odds ratio, intervalo de confiança 95%, Qui-quadrado e correlação de Pearson (p<0,05). O gênero feminino foi o mais prevalente G1- 80,00%; G2-90,00%; G3-80,00%) e idade média foi 43,48±8,99-G1, 38,70±8,52-G2 e 40,22±12,35-G3. Houve diferença quanto à escolaridade, ocupação, renda, hipertensão e etilismo (p<0,05). Os obesos apresentaram maior PS e IP (p<0,05), porém G1 apresentou maior percentual de S (p<0,05). A periodontite esteve associada ao DM (OR= 3,67; IC 95%= 1,80-7,48; p= 0,000). O impacto bucal na QV foi baixo e a SV não diferiu entre os grupos (p>0,05). Após a CB, houve redução das medidas antropométricas e IP em G1 e G2 (p<0,05) e melhora na SV (p>0,05). A QV foi correlacionada com idade (r=0,165; p=0,043) e dentes perdidos (r=0,446; p=0,000); SV correlacionou-se com RCQ (r=0,196; p=0,016) e IP (r=-0,201; p=0,013). Após a CB, SV correlacionou-se...

The objective was to evaluate the periodontal conditions and oral hygiene, quality of life and overall satisfaction with life in diabetic and non-diabetic obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery (BS). Prospective longitudinal observational study which included initial sample of 150 subjects (G1- diabetic obese n = 50; non-diabetic obese G2, n = 50 and G3-eutrophic, n = 50). G1 and G2 were subjected to BS and evaluated after six (PO 6m, n = 18, G1, G2, n = 34) and 12 months (PO 12m, n, G1 = 10, G2 = 15-n). Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and hip (QC) and Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR) were used. Oral examinations were performed by one examiner (kappa> 0.81), evaluating bleeding (B), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index (PI), gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth loss. OHIP-14 and Satisfaction with Life Scale (LS) were applied, besides the registration of socioeconomic, habits and medical history conditions. In the data analysis were applied ANOVA post hoc Tukey, Kruskal-Wallis post hoc Dun, Friedman, Student t test, Mann-Whitney, odds ratio, 95% confidence interval, chi-square and Pearson correlation (p <0.05). Females were the most prevalent G1-80,00%; G2-90,00%; G3-80,00%) and mean age was 43.48 ± 8.99-G1, 38.70 ± 8.52-G2 and 40.22 ±12.35-G3. There were differences regarding education, occupation, income, hypertension and alcohol consumption (p <0.05). Obese had higher PD and (p <0.05), however G1 showed higher percentage of S (p <0.05). The periodontitis was associated with DM (OR = 3.67; 95% CI = 1.80 to 7.48; p = 0.000). The oral impact on QOL was low and LS did not differ between groups (p> 0.05). After the CB, there was a reduction of the anthropometric measurements and PI in G1 and G2 (p <0.05) and improved LS (p> 0.05). QOL was correlated with age (r = 0.165; p = 0.043) and missing teeth (r = 0.446; p = 0.000); LS correlated with WHR (r = 0.196; p = 0.016) and PI (r = -0.201; p = 0.013)...

Condições periodontais e de higiene bucal, qualidade de vida e satisfação com a vida em pacientes obesos diabéticos e não diabéticos submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica / Periodontal conditions and oral hygiene, quality of life and satisfaction with life in obese diabetic and nondiabetic patients undergoing bariatric surgery

Objetivou-se avaliar as condições periodontais e de higiene bucal, qualidade de vida e satisfação geral com a vida em pacientes obesos diabéticos e não diabéticos submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica (CB). Estudo observacional longitudinal prospectivo que contou com amostra inicial de 150 indivíduos (G1- obesos diabéticos n=50; G2-obesos não diabéticos, n=50 e G3-eutróficos, n=50). G1 e G2 foram submetidos à CB e avaliados após seis (PO 6m, G1-n=18; G2-n=34) e 12 meses (PO 12m, G1-n=10; G2-n=15). Utilizou-se Índice de Massa Corpórea (IMC), Circunferências da Cintura (CC) e Quadril (CQ) e Relação Cintura-Quadril (RCQ). Os exames bucais foram realizados por um examinador (Kappa>0,81), avaliando sangramento (S), profundidade de sondagem (PS), nível de inserção clínica (NIC), índice de placa (IP), gengivite, periodontite e dentes perdidos. Aplicouse OHIP-14 e Escala de Satisfação com a Vida (SV), além do registro das condições socioeconômicas, hábitos e história médica. Na análise dos dados foram aplicados Análise de Variância pós teste Tukey, Kruskal-Wallis pós teste Dun, Friedman, teste t-Student, Mann-Whitney, Odds ratio, intervalo de confiança 95%, Qui-quadrado e correlação de Pearson (p<0,05). O gênero feminino foi o mais prevalente G1- 80,00%; G2-90,00%; G3-80,00%) e idade média foi 43,48±8,99-G1, 38,70±8,52-G2 e 40,22±12,35-G3. Houve diferença quanto à escolaridade, ocupação, renda, hipertensão e etilismo (p<0,05). Os obesos apresentaram maior PS e IP (p<0,05), porém G1 apresentou maior percentual de S (p<0,05). A periodontite esteve associada ao DM (OR= 3,67; IC 95%= 1,80-7,48; p= 0,000). O impacto bucal na QV foi baixo e a SV não diferiu entre os grupos (p>0,05). Após a CB, houve redução das medidas antropométricas e IP em G1 e G2 (p<0,05) e melhora na SV (p>0,05). A QV foi correlacionada com idade (r=0,165; p=0,043) e dentes perdidos (r=0,446; p=0,000); SV correlacionou-se com RCQ (r=0,196; p=0,016) e IP (r=-0,201; p=0,013). Após a CB, SV correlacionou-se...

The objective was to evaluate the periodontal conditions and oral hygiene, quality of life and overall satisfaction with life in diabetic and non-diabetic obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery (BS). Prospective longitudinal observational study which included initial sample of 150 subjects (G1- diabetic obese n = 50; non-diabetic obese G2, n = 50 and G3-eutrophic, n = 50). G1 and G2 were subjected to BS and evaluated after six (PO 6m, n = 18, G1, G2, n = 34) and 12 months (PO 12m, n, G1 = 10, G2 = 15-n). Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and hip (QC) and Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR) were used. Oral examinations were performed by one examiner (kappa> 0.81), evaluating bleeding (B), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index (PI), gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth loss. OHIP-14 and Satisfaction with Life Scale (LS) were applied, besides the registration of socioeconomic, habits and medical history conditions. In the data analysis were applied ANOVA post hoc Tukey, Kruskal-Wallis post hoc Dun, Friedman, Student t test, Mann-Whitney, odds ratio, 95% confidence interval, chi-square and Pearson correlation (p <0.05). Females were the most prevalent G1-80,00%; G2-90,00%; G3-80,00%) and mean age was 43.48 ± 8.99-G1, 38.70 ± 8.52-G2 and 40.22 ±12.35-G3. There were differences regarding education, occupation, income, hypertension and alcohol consumption (p <0.05). Obese had higher PD and (p <0.05), however G1 showed higher percentage of S (p <0.05). The periodontitis was associated with DM (OR = 3.67; 95% CI = 1.80 to 7.48; p = 0.000). The oral impact on QOL was low and LS did not differ between groups (p> 0.05). After the CB, there was a reduction of the anthropometric measurements and PI in G1 and G2 (p <0.05) and improved LS (p> 0.05). QOL was correlated with age (r = 0.165; p = 0.043) and missing teeth (r = 0.446; p = 0.000); LS correlated with WHR (r = 0.196; p = 0.016) and PI (r = -0.201; p = 0.013)...

A Study to find out the Dental and Associated Psychosocial Factors in Patients of Halitosis.

Background: Halitosis is unpleasant breath, regardless of its sources. Oral malodor can actually be an indication of more serious health concerns. Some studies have estimated the prevalence of halitosis to be between 22% and 50%, others between 6% and 23%. Poor oral hygiene, periodontal diseases, nasal problems, and various systemic illnesses can be various reasons behind halitosis. Psychiatric problems and halitosis contributes to each other’s pathology significantly. Method: 250 patients were enrolled for study. Sociodemographic profile was noted for all. Complete dental check up was performed to rule out dental factors for halitosis. Organoleptic scale was used to detect the intensity of halitosis. SCL-80 was used to find out psychological component of halitosis. Data was statistically analyzed. Results: Males significantly outnumbered females (p<0.0001) in being post graduates. Significantly more (P=0.0024) females were unemployed and household workers, 40 % were professional and 32% were students. Significantly higher number (p<0.0001) of subjects with halitosis had associated medical problems. Significantly higher (p=0.0101) difference was observed overall and among Males and females regarding dental problems. 34.47% had periodontitis, gingivitis (39.20%), missing tooth (22.80%), calculus (18.80%), tooth sensitivity (49.31%), caries tooth (53.29%), abscess (15.20%) and history of trauma (34.06%). Significantly higher results in somatization (p=0.0003; chi square=19.099), depression (p=0.0019; chi square=14.956), IP sensitivity (p<0.0001; chi square=27.506), phobia (p=0.018; chi square=10.063), OCD (p=0.0312; chi square=8.862) and anger hostility (p=0.0016; chi square=15.308) subscales of SCL 80. Conclusion: Present study concludes significant correlation between dental and psychological factors in halitosis. Halitosis itself produces psychiatric symptoms which could affect the social and personal interaction. Further research into these aspects of halitosis is strongly recommended in developing countries like india.

Self-perception of generalized aggressive periodontitis symptoms and its influence on the compliance with the oral hygiene instructions: a pilot study

Aim: Patient’s adherence to the periodontal treatment is fundamental to the success of the therapy.Lack of response to the clinician’s instructions is influenced by various factors, including gender,age and psychosocial profile. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between self-perceived symptoms of generalized aggressive periodontitis and compliance with the oral hygiene instructions. Methods: Twenty-six subjects presenting a generalized aggressive form of periodontal disease were selected. The subjects answered a questionnaire to rate the perceived symptoms of periodontal disease with a sensitivity scale, in which a numeric score is attributed to each mentioned symptom. The percentage of sites with pocket probing depth (PPD)e” 5mm as well as the plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI) were evaluated and the patients received a full mouth prophylaxis. One month later, the patients were re-evaluated for PI, GI, and PPD, and their percent reductions were correlated with the numeric score attributed to the aggressive periodontitis symptoms. Spearman’s correlation and Wilcoxon’s test were used with as ignificance level of 5%. Results: The greater the self-perception of some of the symptoms, the greater the adherence to the oral hygiene instructions. A positive correlation was observed between the reduction of GI and self perception of bleeding on tooth brushing (p=0.04, r=0.27)and redness and swelling of gums (p=0.04, r=0.26). Conclusions: The self-perception of symptoms of generalized aggressive periodontitis could have an influence on the patient’s response to the oral hygiene instructions.

Oral health knowledge and habits in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus

This study evaluated the oral health knowledge and habits in Brazilian children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). A cross-sectional study was performed between November of 2005 and April of 2006 in a public health university hospital, interviewing 55 diabetic children and 55 non-diabetic control children with a semi-structured questionnaire. As much as 55 percent of the diabetic children and 35.5 percent of the non-diabetic children were males with mean age of 11.3 ± 3.7 years and 11.2 ± 3.8 years, respectively. The mean duration of the T1DM was of 4.5 ± 0.8 years. Almost half of the diabetic and non-diabetic children brushed their teeth three times a day. Dental floss was used once a day by 30.9 percent of diabetics and 18.0 percent of control subjects. A total of 27 percent of the diabetics vs. 54.5 percent of non-diabetics had gingival bleeding. The dentist was aware of the T1DM in 74.5 percent of the cases. As much as 63.8 percent of the diabetic subjects had been to the dentist within the previous 12 months. In conclusion, although the diabetic children seemed to have better oral health habits than the control children, there is a need for more information regarding oral hygiene and healthy habits.

Este estudo avaliou o conhecimento das noções básicas de saúde bucal em crianças e adolescentes brasileiros com diabetes melito tipo 1 (DM1). Um estudo de corte transversal foi realizado entre novembro de 2005 e abril de 2006, em um serviço endocrinologia pediátrica de um hospital da rede pública, entrevistando 55 crianças diabéticas e 55 controle não-diabéticas. Um total de 55 por cento dos diabéticos (n = 55) e 35,5 por cento dos não-diabéticos (n = 55) eram do gênero masculino com idade média de 11,3 ± 3,7 e 11,2 ± 3,8 anos, respectivamente. A duração média do DM1 foi de 4,5 ± 0,8 anos. Aproximadamente metade dos diabéticos e não-diabéticos escovava os dentes três vezes por dia. Fio dental era usado uma vez por dia por 30,9 por cento dos diabéticos e 18,0 por cento do grupo controle. Com relação à saúde periodontal, 27 por cento dos diabéticos relataram sangramento gingival contra 54,5 por cento dos não-diabéticos. O dentista estava ciente do diagnóstico do DM1 em 74,5 por cento dos casos. Dos diabéticos, 63,8 por cento foram ao dentista nos últimos 12 meses. Conclui-se que apesar dos diabéticos aparentarem ter melhores hábitos de saúde oral do que os não-diabéticos, ainda há necessidade de maiores informações sobre higiene oral e hábitos saudáveis.

Knowledge and attitudes of pharmacists regarding oral health care and oral hygiene products in Chennai city.

OBJECTIVES: This study was done to find out the knowledge and attitudes of pharmacists regarding oral health care and oral hygiene products in Chennai city. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey among a sample of the pharmacists in Chennai city was done and data regarding their knowledge and attitudes towards oral health care and oral hygiene products were obtained using a closed-ended questionnaire. RESULTS: Among the 60 pharmacies approached, 50 pharmacists participated in the study and completed the questionnaire. Though 48% of the participants gave a positive answer when asked whether they had met the dentist practicing close to their pharmacies, the frequency with which they met the dentist ranged from once a week (24%) to once a month (28%). Most of the pharmacists stocked oral health-related products, which comprised 15-25% of their total stock. Of these products toothpaste was the most common (62%), followed by mouth rinses (12%). Toothache or painful teeth was the most common dental problem (78%) for which patients approached the pharmacists for advice. With regard to the advice given, 38.5% of the pharmacists asked the patient to consult a nearby dentist after dispensing medications, while 22.4% of the pharmacists dispensed antibiotics and painkillers without any referral. Seventy percent of the pharmacists expressed interest in giving oral health care advice to patients. However, many of them (38%) felt that lack of proper knowledge is a barrier to providing oral health care advice. CONCLUSION: It is clear from the present study that pharmacists are presently an underutilized resource, and there is a definitive need to improve their training and access to information on available dental services.

Autocuidado dentário em alunos com e sem dificuldade de aprendizagem / Dental self-care in students with and without learning disability

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi identificar e analisar possíveis relações entre dificuldade de aprendizagem e autocuidado dentário. Sessenta alunos da 3ª e 4ª séries do ensino fundamental público foram divididos em grupos - com (grupo 1) e sem dificuldade de aprendizagem (grupo 2) - de acordo com o teste de desempenho escolar. Foi realizada, individualmente, a verificação do biofilme dental, antes e após a escovação dos dentes, e uma entrevista sobre autocuidado dentário. Os dados foram submetidos a tratamento estatístico, a análise de conteúdo dos relatos verbais e análise funcional do comportamento de escovação dentária. Verificou-se diferença significativa para o tempo de escovação - menor no grupo 1, que também relatou menos auto-regras para controle da escovação, informações menos precisas sobre cárie e mais punição pelos pais frente à esquiva ou recusa da escovação. Estudos interdisciplinares em psicologia e odontologia são desejáveis para a proposição de programas de intervenção em saúde bucal mais eficazes.

The aim of this study was to identify and analyze possible relationship between learning disabilities and dental self-care. Sixty third and fourth grades students from a Public Elementary School were divided in two groups: with (group 1) and without (group 2) learning disabilities. They were individually tested, went on the verification of dental biofilm before and after tooth brushing, and interviewed about dental self-care. The data were submitted to a statistical treatment: the content analysis of the verbal report and the functional analysis of tooth brushing behavior. There were significant differences between the groups - about time for brushing the teeth, which was minor for the students of group 1. These students also have less self-rules to control tooth brushing, less precise information about cavities and also they are more punished by their parents for avoiding brushing their teeth. Interdisciplinary studies about Psychology and Dentistry are convenient for developing more efficacious programs in oral health.

Conhecimento dos fatores envolvidos na higiene bucal de crianças queimadas / Evaluation of factors related to oral hygiene for children with burns

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar os fatores associados com a presença de placa visível em 30 crianças que sofreram queimadura e procuraram atendimento médico no Hospital Infantil Joana de Gusmão em Florianópolis, Santa Catarina. As dificuldades em relação à execução de atividades diárias tais como higienizar os dentes, abrir a boca, andar, alimentar-se foram respondidas através de entrevista dirigida aos responsáveis. Cada criança foi avaliada quanto à presença ou ausência de placa dentária visível. Os dados foram analisados através dos testes qui-quadrado ou exato de Fisher. A maioria das crianças avaliadas apresentou alguma dificuldade em realizar atividades como andar, mover os membros (braços e pernas) e comer. Verificou-se ainda que a maioria dos responsáveis tinha dificuldade de realizar a higiene bucal da criaça, principalmente devido ao uso da malha (p=0,021). Conclui-se que pacientes queimados apresentam rico de desenvolvimento de doença bucal (cárie, doença periodontal) devido à dificuldade de se realizar a higiene. Dessa forma, a orientação efetiva aos responsáveis e aos enfermeiros da criança durante o período de internação é de extrema importância

knowledge and practices of oral hygiene methods and attendance pattern among school teachers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

The aim of this study was to find out the knowledge and practices of oral hygiene methods among primary and secondary school teachers in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia [KSA]. The study was carried out using a self-administered questionnaire. Four hundred and seventy teachers, male 236 [50.2%] and female 234 [48.8%] responded with a response rate of 85.5%. The study was conducted during October to December 2001 at primary and secondary schools in Riyadh City, KSA. Almost 86% of male and 90% of female teachers Felt that dental caries is due to the wrong method of tooth brushing, while sugar and sugary drinks were considered the main factors by 90% of male and 98% of female teachers. Seventy-five percent of male and 72% of female teachers considered irregular tooth brushing a cause of gums disease with 32% of male and 39% of female teachers not knowing detail with regard to microbial relationship of gum disease. Tooth brushing preference was common among 45% male and 49% female teachers due to perceived effect of better cleaning, while almost an equal percentage of male and females [62%] used miswak due to Sunnah. Thirty-three point five percent of female teachers brushed 3 times a day as compared to 19% male teachers. On daily basis brushing 3 times, a day was common among >5000 SR monthly income group. Male teachers preferred horizontal tooth brushing [40%] while female teachers preferred circular tooth brushing [45%]. Miswak was more commonly used by male teachers as compared to female teachers. Female school teachers had a higher income as compared to male schoolteachers. Thirty-two percent of females and 28% of male teachers were regular attendees to the dentist. Males were more satisfied by their oral health as compared to female teachers and 56% of male and 63% of female teachers visited the dentist only on having pain [toothache]. It is concluded that there is much resemblance in knowledge and practice of oral hygiene habits among male and female schoolteachers and there is a need to enhance their knowledge regarding oral health and disease. Both need more awareness regarding oral health promotion to have a positive role in school oral health education for their students in collaboration with oral health care workers

O comportamento infantil durante a higiene bucal domiciliar e alguns fatores associados à cárie / Children's behavior during domestic oral hygiene and some factors associated with caries

A identificação dos aspectos comportamentais de risco é um poderoso aliado na prevenção de cárie na infância, no entanto deve ser realizada de forma simples e rápida. Esta pesquisa verificou o relato materno do comportamento da criança durante a higiene bucal domiciliar e alguns fatores associados à cárie dentária. O estudo abrangeu 200 crianças de 24 a 48 meses de idade que participavam do programa da Bebê-Clínica (Universidade Estadual de Londrina), durante no mínimo, os últimos 12 meses. Foi aplicado um questionário às mães e realizado um exame clínico nas crianças. Do total de mães entrevistadas 70,5 por cento relataram um comportamento tranqüilo das crianças no momento da higiene, 13,5 por cento um comportamento eventualmente difícil e 16 por cento um comportamento sempre difícil. Somente os dados obtidos nos grupos extremos, comportamento sempre difícil e tranqüilo, foram comparados para evitar inconsistência de informação. O grupo com comportamento difícil apresentou desmame mais precoce, com uso mais prevalente de mamadeira associada ao sono e higiene bucal após o uso da mamadeira menos freqüente, além de uma tendência de alto consumo de açúcar. No grupo com comportamento difícil, 43,8 por cento das crianças apresentavam experiência de cárie e 40,6 por cento presença evidente de placa nos incisivos superiores, contra 31,0 por cento e 21,8 por cento, respectivamente, no grupo com comportamento tranqüilo. Pode-se concluir que crianças com relato de comportamento difícil durante a higienização bucal domiciliar merecem atenção especial, constituindo-se um grupo em que as ações educativas e de apoio ao núcleo familiar devem ser intensificadas

Relaçäo entre determinantes socioeconômicos e hábitos bucais: influência na oclusäo de pré-escolares de Bauru-SP-Brasil / Relationship between socioeconomic determinants and buccal habits: influence in occlusion of preschoolchildren of Bauru-SP-Brazil

Tendo por objetivo avaliar como determinantes socioeconômicos afetam a oclusäo dentária em pré-escolares, este estudo transversal foi desenvolvido em três etapas: exame de oclusäo, medidas antropométricas e questionário socioeconômico. O inquérito epidemiológico foi realizado no período de outubro de 1994 a dezembro de 1995. A amostra probabilística foi constituída por 2139 crianças, de ambos os sexos, na faixa etária de três a cinco anos, matriculadas em instituiçöes públicas ou privadas do município de Bauru-SP-Brasil. A avaliaçäo de aspectos morfológicos da oclusäo seguiu a classificaçäo de ANGLE, observando-se também o trespasse horizontal, trespasse vertical, espaçamento/apinhamento, mordida aberta anterior, mordida cruzada total, mordida cruzada anterior e mordida cruzada posterior uni ou bilateral. Uma sub-amostra de 618 crianças apresentou resposta ao questionário socioeconômico. A partir das hipóteses que: a) determinantes socioeconômicos afetam o estado emocional da criança e isto se manifesta através de hábitos bucais, que por sua vez afetam a condiçäo oclusal; b) alguns fatores socioeconômicos influenciam padröes de alimentaçäo infantil e educaçäo, predispondo crianças que receberam aleitamento materno e crianças matriculadas em pré-escolas de tempo parcial a apresentarem menores taxas de má oclusäo, foram realizadas análises bivariadas envolvendo a prevalência de má oclusäo e algumas variáveis de exposiçäo. A prevalência de má oclusäo foi de 51,3 por cento para o sexo masculino e 56,9 para o sexo feminino, sem variaçäo quanto ao grupo étnico, sexo ou tipo de escola. A maior prevalência de má oclusäo foi verificada no grupo etário de três anos, decrescendo significativamente com a idade (p<0,05). Entre os fatores ambientais estudados, o hábito de sucçäo de chupeta e sucçäo digital foram os mais importantes na associaçäo com má oclusäo. Alguns determinantes socioeconômicos, como trabalho materno e ocupaçäo da pessoa de maior renda no domicílio estäo relacionados com a maior prevalência de hábitos bucais deletérios, que por sua vez estäo positivamente associados com a má oclusäo. Estes achados salientam a importância do desenvolvimento de um estudo longitudinal para confirmaçäo de como os determinantes sociais atuam no processo de crescimento e desenvolvimento da criança

Necessidade de saúde bucal em gestantes dos Núcleos de Saúde em Bauru: conhecimentos com relaçäo à própria saúde bucal e à da criança / Oral health needs of the pregnants at the Health Center in Bauru: their knowledge about their Children's oral helth and their own

Com o objetivo de avaliar a necessidade de saúde bucal, a prática, o conhecimento sobre a sua própria saúde e a saúde de suas crianças, foi realizada uma entrevista com um grupo de gestantes cadastradas nos Núcleos de Saúde de Bauru, Säo Paulo. A amostra constou de 150 gestantes, com idades entre 13 e 44 anos, com nível sócio-econômico baixos. Várias questöes foram abordadas sobre o que elas entendiam sobre o processo saúde/doença bucal, os meios de prevençäo, cultura popular e gravidez, valor atribuído à saúde bucal, hábitos e práticas de auto-cuidado e busca de tratamento odontológico. Com relaçäo à intençäo das gestantes em saúde bucal da criança, foram elaboradas questöes sobre amamentaçäo, uso de mamadeira, preparo desta mamadeira, importância dos dentes decíduos, cuidados e prática sobre higiene bucal. Os resultados foram analisados na forma freqüência e porcentagem sendo possível concluir :1) as grávidas entrevistadas têm noçäo sobre a doença cárie e os meios de prevení-la; 2) existe uma certa valorizaçäo da saúde bucal, pois a perda dos dentes näo é uma situaçäo inevitável se as pessoas tiverem os devidos cuidados e tratamento; 3) a procura do tratamento odontológico näo é prioridade neste grupo. Há um certo receio das grávidas e do próprio dentista; 4) a maioria das gestantes já recebeu informaçöes sobre prevençäo, mas durante o período pré-natal elas näo receberam nenhuma informaçäo sobre saúde bucal; 5) o grupo de gestantes entrevistadas tem pouco conhecimento sobre a saúde bucal de seu filhos, em decorrência disso, ocorre o uso indevido da mamadeira, o consumo de açúcar e de quando levar ao cirurgiäo dentista pela primeira vez; 6) as gestantes entrevistadas mostraram grande interesse em adquirir conhecimentos sobre as questöes formuladas e sugeriu-se, portanto, a formaçäo de equipe pré-natal com participaçäo do cirurgiäo-dentista

Evaluation of existing status of knowledge, practice and attitude towards oral health of rural communities of Haryana--India.

The KAP survey on oral health practices of 3247 individuals, 6-60 years of age, of Sidhaura block of Haryana revealed that use of dattan was more prevalent (56% in adult community & 49% students) than tooth brush (35% adult community & 34% students). 37% of the total community had the knowledge of brush being the best oral hygiene measure. 25% of the community using brush were brushing only once/day. The knowledge of the community regarding the role of fluorides in prevention of dental caries was completely lacking: 1.8% of the community was using fluoride dentifrice. 35-45 percent of the community were practising sweet foods/drinks etc. four times a day. The snyder test showed a positive relation with frequency of sugar intake.