evaluation of association between crown margins and materials with the periodontal health

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between crown margin and type of restorative material on the periodontal health of the restored teeth. This case control study was conducted on 100 patients [50 metal crowns, 50 porcelain fused to metal crowns] whose prosthesis were fabricated in the department of crown and bridge of Fatima Jinnah Dental College Hospital. Contra-lateral tooth of same patient served as control. Clinical evaluation was performed and periodontal indices including Bleeding index, Plaque index, and Pocket depth measurement were recorded on a proforma. CPITN[Ash] "C"probe was used to record the readings. Data was analyzed with SPSS for windows using chi square test. One hundred patients with either porcelain fused to metal crown [n=50] or metal crown [n=50] with unrestored and healthy contralateral dentition were included in the study. Teeth restored with supra-gingival margins scored better for bleeding index, plaque index and pocket depth as compared to teeth restored with subgingival margins [p value<0.01]. The type of restorative material did not have an effect on recorded scores [p value>0.1]. Supragingival preparations for the crowns were better tolerated by the periodontium as compared to the subgingival preparations. There was no influence of type of restorative material on gingival health

Endodontic management of a severely curved mandibular second molar with modified double flared technique, report of a case

Exaggerated curvatures of root canals have historically been difficult to treat. The present case report deals with one such case. A 40 year old male presented with signs and symptoms of pulpal pathosis in right lower second molar. Pre operative radiograph revealed an exaggerated curvature of mesial roots. The case was treated with ISO standerdized NiTi manual files using the modified double flared technique. Patient came back for a recall visit after a year and was symptomless

survey of knowledge of dentists in diagnosing irreversible pulpitis

Dental caries and its sequel pulpitis, is one of the most common complaint with which the patient attends a dental office. The diagnosis of of puplitis involves distinguishing the two types, i.e.; the reversible and irreversible pulpitis, through objective and subjective testing. This process is usually straightforward but can at times be difficult due to anatomical, physiological and psychological factors. The Purpose of this questionnaire based survey was to find out the ability of dentists in diagnosing irreversible pupitis. The study design was cross sectional. Two hundred signle clinical scenario based questionnaires were distributed among 3 dental colleges. Totally 142 questionnaires were received back. Respondents were the clinical staff [consultants, senior registrar residents, demonstrator, house officers and final year students] of the 3 dentil college. The respondents were asked to diagnose the clinical scenario as either reversible or irreversible pulpitis. Most of the participants [81.7%] gave a wrong diagnosis. Worst response was from the final year student category [88.6%] whereas best response was in the resident category [44.4%]. The deference was statistically significant [p<0.05]. The ability of participants in diagnosis the clinical scenario correctly was poor in all categories

cantilevered resin bonded bridge: a one year followup - case report

A cantilevered resin bonded bridge [RBB] involves preparation of a single abutment limited to enamel. It is one of the most conservative options to replace a missing tooth. In vivo and in vitro research has established the success and longevity of this treatment modality. This case reprot is a description of a missing maxillary lateral incisor, its replacement by a cantilevered RBB and the 1 year follow up

Digital radiography in dentistry

Since its inception in 1895 by Roentgen, the field of diagnostic sciences has undergone constant development. In 1984 Dr. Frances Mouyens introduced digital radiography in dentistry. 10-20% dental practitioners in North America use digital radiography, and the numbers are on an increase. Digital radiography uses intraoral sensor replacing silver halide film. X-rays fall on the sensor and an image is formed on a computer screen instantaneously, avoiding time-consuming chemical processing of conventional radiography. Moreover, there is a 90% reduction in radiation dosage. A digital image can be manipulated in various ways. This article reviews the basic concept of digital radiography. This is a review article

Artificial pacemakers and dentistry

Dental management of a patient with artificial pacemaker is not clearly understood. A patient with an artificial pacemaker is at risk from environmental factors, most damaging of which are electromagnetic fields. Electromagnetic field can alter, or inhibit an artificial pacemaker and it is an established fact that all electrical dental equipments generate electromagnetic fields. Advancements in pacemaker technology have made them immune to most electrical dental equipment. However, certain equipments like the electrotome, and certain ultrasonic equipments can potentially damage an artificial pacemaker. This article gives an insight into the various parts and normal functioning of a pacemaker, effects of electromagnetic interference and dental equipment interfering with a pacemaker. It also discusses various preventive measures that must be undertaken by a dental professional to avoid a mishap