RESUMO
Background: Dental caries is a major global public health concern. This study assessed dental caries prevalence and the use of fissure sealants on first permanent molars among Saudi Arabian boys aged 9–12 attending elementary schools to establish effective caries prevention strategies. Methods: Cluster probability sampling was employed to select public and private male elementary schools from five distinct geographic regions in Riyadh city, KSA; 601 male students in the fourth grade (aged 9–10 years), fifth grade (aged 10–11 years), and sixth grade (aged 11–12 years) were included. Only the first permanent molars’ occlusal surfaces were evaluated. Data management was performed using Microsoft excel, statistical analyses were conducted using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS), and the chi-square test was utilized. Results: The outcome demonstrated that 67.7% (n=407 children) had decayed, missing, or filled first permanent molars, indicating the presence of caries, while 32.3% (n=194) had caries-free first permanent molars. Only 6.8% (n=41) of children had received fissure sealants. At the tooth level, 37.7% (n=906) of examined teeth had decayed, and 8.1% (n=194) had fillings. The utilization rate of fissure sealants remained low at 3.9% (n=93), with 50.4% (n=1211) of first permanent molars remaining intact. Conclusions: This cross-sectional study highlights a significant prevalence between caries and the limited utilization of fissure sealants on first permanent molars among Saudi Arabian boys, underscoring the urgent need for proactive preventative measures and educational initiatives.
RESUMO
Dentures, as versatile dental prostheses, wield a multifaceted influence on individuals' lives, profoundly affecting both their oral health and overall quality of life. The clinical manifestations of denture-related concerns encompass a spectrum of physical, psychological, and functional dimensions. Physically, dentures restore masticatory function and address aesthetic concerns, bridging the gap between tooth loss and oral functionality. Psychologically, they elevate self-esteem and reduce social anxiety, facilitating enhanced self-confidence and improved social interactions. Functionally, dentures enhance articulation and speech clarity, enabling effective communication. Effective denture management, in the contemporary landscape of dental care, involves a comprehensive approach that combines precision, technology, hygiene, and patient education. Digital dentistry techniques ensure precise denture fitting, and advanced technologies facilitate regular check-ups, leading to well-fitting, comfortable dentures. Meticulous denture hygiene practices prevent oral health complications. Patient education empowers individuals to maintain their oral health effectively, while addressing psychosocial concerns remains a crucial empathetic dimension of patient care. In conclusion, dentures have evolved as transformative solutions for individuals facing tooth loss, addressing clinical manifestations related to impaired oral function, aesthetic concerns, and psychosocial challenges. Modern denture management embraces the latest dental technologies, hygiene practices, and patient-centered approaches to optimize outcomes. Staying current with advancements in denture care ensures that these dental prostheses continue to enhance oral health and overall well-being effectively, reaffirming their indispensable role in modern dentistry.
RESUMO
The preservation of deciduous teeth is crucial in pediatric dentistry to maintain normal speech, development, and self-esteem, while also preventing secondary issues like space loss and tooth impaction. Different materials and approaches have been explored over time, ranging from mummification to maintaining pulp vitality and promoting healing. In today's conservative dentistry, techniques like indirect pulp treatment and partial pulpotomy (PP) have gained popularity. Adults diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis due to deep caries often receive root canal therapy (RCT). However, coronal pulpotomy treatment (CPT) has emerged as an affordable alternative for those unable to afford RCT. CPT removes the coronal pulp, allowing the remaining pulp to remain vital. PP and complete pulpotomy are explored as treatments for teeth with signs of irreversible pulpitis. Success depends on eliminating infected tissue, using aseptic techniques, and achieving a tight restorative seal. Materials like MTA have shown favorable outcomes. Direct pulp therapy and PP can effectively preserve vital pulp in primary and young permanent teeth. The choice of pulpotomy material, such as MTA, plays a significant role in success rates.