Entendiendo a la caries dental como una enfermedad socialmente transmitida

La salud oral abarca el estado de la boca, influyendo en funciones esenciales y dimensiones psicosociales. Las enfermedades orales representan la mayor carga de enfermedad crónica no transmisible a nivel mundial. En Chile, la prevalencia de caries es significativa, situándonos en los primeros lugares de la región de las Américas. Inicialmente, el abordaje de la caries se centraba en su manifestación, sin comprender claramente su proceso. Se asumía una perspectiva infectocontagiosa, pero en la actualidad, se entiende como una enfermedad crónica no transmisible mediada por bacterias, asociada a cambios ecológicos. Se propone que la caries dental es una enfermedad socialmente transmitida, con determinantes sociales y comerciales influyentes. La responsabilidad individual no es suficiente; se debe explorar estrategias de abordaje río arriba, yendo a las causas fundamentales. Es crucial reconocer que las condiciones socioeconómicas y culturales limitan las opciones de cuidado de la salud, y la prevención y el acceso a tratamientos adecuados son desafíos complejos. Se hace un llamado a ir más allá de la odontología tradicional, instando a trabajar en actividades de abogacía junto a la academia, sociedades científicas y el sector gremial para abordar las causas fundamentales y ofrecer alternativas saludables a toda la población.

Oral health encompasses the condition of the mouth influencing essential functions and psychosocial dimensions. Oral diseases constitute the largest burden of non-communicable chronic diseases globally. In Chile, the prevalence of caries is significant, positioning us among the top in the Americas region. Initially, the approach to caries focused on its manifestation without a clear understanding of its process. An infectious perspective was assumed, but presently, it is recognized as a non-communicable chronic disease mediated by bacteria and associated with ecological changes. It is proposed that dental caries is a socially transmitted condition influenced by social and commercial determinants. Individual responsibility is insufficient; upstream approaches must be explored, addressing fundamental causes. Recognizing that socioeconomic and cultural conditions significantly limit healthcare choices, prevention, and access to appropriate treatments become complex challenges. A call is made to transcend traditional dentistry, urging collaboration in advocacy activities with academia, scientific societies, and the professional sector to address root causes and provide healthy alternatives for the entire population.

Assessment of awareness among parents about dietary habits and its relation to oral health in children: a cross sectional study

Background: Dental caries is one of the most common infectious diseases which occurs during early childhood and continues to be major public problem. Establishing healthy dietary habits right from a very young age not only improves the oral health but is essential for a child’s growth and development. Since parents are the main caregivers and prime regulators of child’s dietary intake, they play an important role in shaping child’s oral hygiene habits. Hence it is necessary for them to be aware of the right nutrition, right oral hygiene modalities and frequent dental visits for the betterment of child’s overall health. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among parents of children visiting to Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry KAHER’s KLE VK Institute of dental sciences, Belagavi. Subjects were selected according to inclusion criteria. This study was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study conducted among parents about dietary habits and its relation to oral health in children. Results: This study shows the statistically significant results with effect among parents about awareness of dietary habits and its relation to oral health in children. Conclusions: With the results it can be concluded that children who had parents with low knowledge scores were more likely to experience caries and have poor oral hygiene.

Assessment of oral health knowledge among the medical graduates of private and government colleges: a cross-sectional survey

Background: General health and oral health are interconnected, with oral health being a fundamental component. It is critical for life long human well-being. Oral health issues pose a significant concern for public health. Medical students should also have better knowledge of oral hygiene so that they can provide oral health education and guidance to their patients when requested. Many people seek medical care from their primary care provider for oral health problems. Therefore, doctors must have sufficient knowledge about oral health and play an important role in promoting oral health. This study aimed to assess the oral health knowledge of medical graduates from private and government colleges in Nellore, India. Methods: A Cross-sectional study using a pre-designed survey consisting of 25 questions with Likert scale options. The study included medical graduates from all private and government colleges. Questions about oral health issues and their relationship to overall health. Data was collected, compiled, and analyzed using the chi-square test. Results: Compared to government medical college students, 83.8% of private college students believe that dental caries and periodontal diseases are plaque-mediated diseases. 90.3% of government medical college students agree with the statement "tobacco is only the risk factor for oral cancer" compared to private college students. Conclusions: Medical students lack awareness of oral health issues. Frequently, oral health concerns are neglected as they focus on classroom dynamics and students’ behavior.

Factores determinantes de extracción de dientes permanentes en pacientes que asisten a hospitales y/o servicios odontológicos / determinant factors in the permanent teeth extractions in patients attending dental hospitals of dental services

Este artículo tiene como objetivo identificar y analizar los factores determinantes que conducen a la extracción de dientes permanentes en pacientes que asisten a hospitales y/o servicios odontológicos. A través de una revisión exhaustiva de la literatura científica y datos epidemiológicos, se exploran las principales causas de pérdida dental, incluyendo caries, enfermedad periodontal, trauma y factores socioeconómicos. Se discuten las implicaciones clínicas y de salud pública de estos hallazgos, así como estrategias preventivas y terapéuticas para reducir la incidencia de extracciones dentales (AU)

This article aims to identify and analyze the determining factors leading to the extraction of permanent teeth in patients attending hospitals and/or dental services. Through a comprehensive review of scientific literature and epidemiological data, the main causes of tooth loss are explored, including caries, periodontal disease, trauma, and socioeconomic factors. The clinical and public health implications of these findings are discussed, as well as preventive and therapeutic strategies to reduce the incidence of dental extractions (AU)

Riesgo microbiológico de caries y factores predisponentes en mujeres gestantes / Microbiological caries risk and predisposing factors in pregnant women

La caries es una enfermedad multifactorial que afecta los tejidos duros del diente, con la evaluación del riesgo de caries es posible determinar la probabilidad de su incidencia durante un determinado periodo de tiempo. El objetivo consistió en determinar el estado de salud bucal en mujeres gestantes y su relación con factores de riesgo de caries. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo observacional clínico. La población estuvo constituida por mujeres gestantes que concurrieron al Hospital Ángela Llano de la cuidad de Corrientes para su atención. Se confeccionó una historia clínica y se determinó el estado de salud bucal y de riesgo de caries según protocolo CAMBRA. Para la carac- terización y descripción de los datos se utilizaron estadísticas univariadas. Los resultados alcanzados fueron: Índice de Caries de 4.5 a 6.5, en el índice de Placa la media ± DS 56,8% ± 39,9% Min: 28,5%/ Max: 90,9%. Respecto al valor de pH de 7,11 ±0,43, Min.: 7,00, Max.: 8,67. Flujo salival: media ± DS: 0,58ml/m ± 0,28 ml/m Min.:0,2 ml/m Max.: 0,62 ml/m; Edad promedio: 22años. Min.:18 Max.: 33 años. Recuento de Strepto- coccus mutans (SM) con periodo gestacional 1° y 2° trimestre, el conteo de bacterias: 2.3x105 +/- 3.2x 105 UFC/ml de saliva y 3° Trimestre el conteo de 1.2x 106 +/-2.02 x 106 UFC/ml de saliva. La presencia de SM puede aumentar considerable- mente el riesgo de caries, si los mecanismos de defen- sa del huésped no anulan la bacteria (AU)

Caries is a multifactorial disease that affects the hard tissues of the tooth. By evaluating the risk of caries, it is possible to determine the probability of its incidence during a certain period of time. The objective was to determine the oral health status of pregnant women and its relationship with caries risk factors. A clinical observational descriptive study was carried out. The population was made up of pregnant women who attended the Ángela Llano Hospital in the city of Corrientes for care. A clinical history was prepared, and the oral health status and caries risk were determined according to the CAMBRA protocol. Univariate statistics were used to characterize and describe the data. The results achieved were Caries Index from 4.5 to 6.5, in the Plaque index the mean ± SD 56.8% ± 39.9% Min: 28.5%/ Max: 90.9%. Regarding the pH value of 7.11 ±0.43, Min.: 7.00, Max.: 8.67. Salivary flow: mean ± SD: 0.58 ml/m ± 0.28 ml/m Min.: 0.2 ml/m Max.: 0.62 ml/m; Average age: 22 years. Min.:18 Max.: 33 years. Streptococcus mutans (SM) count with gestational period 1st and 2nd trimester, bacteria count: 2.3x105 +/- 3.2x 105 CFU/ml of saliva and 3rd Trimester count 1.2x 106 +/- 2.02 x 106 CFU/ml of saliva. The presence of SM can considerably increase the risk of caries, if the host defense mechanisms do not override the bacteria (AU)

Clinical, Radiographic, and Histological Changes in Enamel and Dentin, According to Caries Care International™ Evaluation, In Permanent Posterior Teeth: An Observational Study / Cambios Clínicos, Radiográficos e Histológicos en Esmalte y Dentina, Según Evaluación de Caries Care International™, en Dientes Posteriores Permanentes: Un Estudio Observacional

SUMMARY: CariesCare International ™ practical guide is a tool for the comprehensive assessment and treatment of caries that synthesizes clinical and radiographic diagnosis and risk factors, classifying the severity, progression, and activity of lesions. The objective of this study was to analyze the validity and prediction characteristics of the proposed dental caries classification in the CariesCare International ™ practical guide as a reference through clinical and radiographic evaluation versus histological evaluation. Ninety-seven permanent posterior teeth were evaluated, and clinical and radiographic diagnoses were determined according to parameters defined in the CariesCare International™ guide as a reference. Subsequently, histological evaluation was performed to compare each stage of dental caries progression, and statistical analysis was applied. When comparing the validity and prediction values between radiographic and clinical diagnoses in relation to histological evaluation, a low sensitivity and high specificity relationship was found. The sensitivity and specificity percentages between the clinical and radiographic methods show that the clinical method has a lower number of false negatives. Histological changes in dental tissue were evident from the earliest stages of lesions, even in those not related to the caries process, indicating that the dentist should be careful when deciding on a treatment plan and take into account all variables involved in the caries process, as proposed by the CariesCare International ™ guide.

La guía práctica CariesCare International™ es una herramienta para la evaluación y tratamiento integral de la caries que sintetiza el diagnóstico clínico y radiográfico y los factores de riesgo, clasificando la gravedad, progresión y actividad de las lesiones. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la validez y características de predicción de la clasificación de caries dental propuesta en la guía práctica CariesCare International™ como referencia a través de la evaluación clínica y radiográfica versus la evaluación histológica. Se evaluaron noventa y siete dientes posteriores permanentes y se determinaron diagnósticos clínicos y radiográficos según parámetros definidos en la guía CariesCare International™ como referencia. Posteriormente se realizó una evaluación histológica para comparar cada etapa de progresión de la caries dental y se aplicó análisis estadístico. Al comparar los valores de validez y predicción entre los diagnósticos radiológicos y clínicos en relación con la evaluación histológica, se encontró una relación de baja sensibilidad y alta especificidad. Los porcentajes de sensibilidad y especificidad entre el método clínico y radiográfico muestran que el método clínico tiene un menor número de falsos negativos. Los cambios histológicos en el tejido dental fueron evidentes desde las primeras etapas de las lesiones, incluso en aquellas no relacionadas con el proceso de caries, lo que indica que el odontólogo debe tener cuidado al decidir un plan de tratamiento y tener en cuenta todas las variables involucradas en el proceso de caries, tal como propone la guía CariesCare International™.

Analysis of primary caregivers' knowledge concerning the cariogenic risk associated with the use of pediatric liquid medications / Análisis del conocimiento de los cuidadores principales sobre el riesgo cariogénico implicado en la ingesta de medicamentos líquidos pediátricos

Introduction: Pediatric liquid medications (PLM) are frequently administered to children, yet their usage may contribute to the onset of dental caries. Despite its prevalence, there is a notable scarcity of scientific research regarding caregivers' knowledge of this potential cariogenic risk. Objective: This study aims to assess the knowledge of the main caregivers of children aged 5 to 12 years concerning the cariogenic potential associated with the use of PLM. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical obser-vational study involving 152 primary caregivers of children aged 5 to 12 was conducted. Data were collected on caregivers' perceptions of the cariogenic risk associated with PLMs and their consumption habits. The study also assessed oral hygiene routines and evaluated the level of information provided by healthcare professionals. Results: Research findings indicated a significant lack of awa-reness among primary caregivers regarding the cariogenic risks of PLMs, with 78.95% being unaware of these risks and 47.37% unaware of the sugars present in such medications. Additionally, a high rate of PLM consumption was observed, with 63% of caregivers using them in the last year. The study underscored a notable absence of guidance from healthcare professionals, as 91.45% of the caregivers stated that they had not received instructions on tooth brushing after the administration of the PLM. Conclusions: The study highlights a significant lack of awa-reness among primary caregivers regarding the cariogenic risks associated with the ingestion of pediatric liquid medications. This deficit in information and preventive measures presents a substantial obstacle to children's oral health. To address this issue, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to offer comprehensive guidance and promote preventive measures.

Introducción: La administración de medicamentos líquidos pediátricos (MLP) es una práctica común en la población infantil y puede estar vinculada al desarrollo de lesiones de caries dental. Sin embargo, la evidencia científica que aborda el conocimiento de los cuidadores acerca de este riesgo cariogénico es escasa. Objetivo: Este estudio busca determinar el conocimiento de los cuidadores principales de niños de 5 a 12 años sobre el potencial cariogénico asociado al consumo de MLP. Materiales y Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional analítico transversal que incluyó a 152 cuidadores principales de niños en el rango de edad de 5 a 12 años. Se recopiló información sobre la percepción de los cuidadores acerca del riesgo cariogénico de los MLP, así como sobre sus patrones de consumo. Además, se registraron las prácticas de higiene oral y se evaluó el nivel de información proporcionado por los profesionales de la salud. Resultado: Los hallazgos de la investigación revelaron que un 78,95% de los cuidadores principales desconocen el riesgo cariogénico asociado al consumo de medicamentos líquidos pediátricos (MLP), y un 47,37% de ellos no eran conscientes de la presencia de azúcares en dichos medicamentos. Además, se observó un elevado índice de consumo de MLP, con un 63% de los cuidadores que los utilizaron en el último año. Se destacó la falta de orientaciones por parte de los profesionales de la salud, ya que, un 91,45% de los tutores afirmaron no haber recibido instrucciones sobre el cepillado dental posterior a la administración de los MLP. Conclusión: Este estudio evidencia un relevante porcentaje de desconocimiento entre los cuidadores principales acerca del riesgo cariogénico asociado a la ingesta de medicamentos líquidos pediátricos. La falta de información y medidas preventivas constituye un desafío significativo para la salud oral de los niños. Es imperativo que los profesionales de la salud proporcionen información detallada y fomenten prácticas de prevención.

Association between early childhood caries and nutritional status in children in a peruvian social program: a cross-sectional study / Asociación entre caries de la primera infancia y estado nutricional en niños de un programa social peruano: un estudio transversal

Introduction: Early childhood caries is still very prevalent, mainly in developing countries, and it is related to the quality of life of children due to early tooth loss. Objective: The study objective was to determine the association between dental caries and its clinical consequences on nutritional status in children of the "Vaso de Leche (Glass of Milk)'' social program, in Puno City, Peru, during the year 2020. Materials and Methods: An observational, descriptive-correlational, cross-sectional study; the sample consisted of 740 children between 1 and 5 years old who met the selection criteria; the clinical consequences of untreated dental caries were evaluated using the PUFA index and the prevalence of caries with def-t; the nutritional status was determined by the weight and height of the child according to protocols (NTS No. 357 - MINSA /2017/ DGIESP); the data were analyzed with the SPSS-v25 program, the association between variables was evaluated with the chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U test and Spearman's Rho test, considering significance at a p-value <0.05. Results: No significant relationship was found when dental caries was evaluated with the nutritional condition (p<0.05). However, when the def-t index values were related to the nutritional condition of the children, a significant difference was found (p<0.05). There was no significant difference with the PUFA index (p>0.05). Conclusions: There is no association between early childhood caries and nutritional status in children aged between 3 and 5 years; however, a significant relationship was found between the values of the def-t index and the nutritional status of the children.

Introducción: La caries infantil temprana sigue siendo muy prevalente, principalmente en los países en desarrollo, y está relacionada con la calidad de vida de los niños debido a la pérdida temprana de dientes Objetivo: El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la asociación entre la caries dental y sus consecuencias clínicas sobre el estado nutricional en niños del programa social "Vaso de Leche", en la ciudad de Puno, Perú, durante el año 2020. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio observacional, estudio descriptivo-correlacional, transversal; la muestra estuvo conformada por 740 niños entre 1 y 5 años que cumplieron con los criterios de selección, se evaluaron las consecuencias clínicas de la caries dental no tratada mediante el índice PUFA y la prevalencia de caries con d-t; el estado nutricional se determinó mediante el peso y talla del niño según protocolos (NTS N°357 MINSA/2017/DGIESP; los datos se analizaron con el programa SPSS-v25, la asociación entre variables se evaluó con el chi); -cuadrado, U de Mann-Whitney y Rho de Spearman, considerando significancia a un valor de p<0,05. Resultado: No se encontró relación significativa cuando se evaluó la caries dental con la condición nutricional (p<0,05). Sin embargo, cuando los valores del índice d-t se relacionaron con la condición nutricional de los niños, se encontró una diferencia significativa (p<0,05). No hubo diferencia significativa con el índice PUFA (p>0,05). Conclusión: No existe asociación entre caries de la primera infancia y el estado nutricional en niños de 3 a 5 años; sin embargo, se encontró una relación significativa entre los valores del índice d-t y el estado nutricional de los niños.

Metodologias ativas no ensino de diagnóstico radiográfico da cárie proximal / Active methodologies in teaching radiographic diagnosis of proximal caries

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho do estudante de Odontologia no diagnóstico radiográfico de cáries proximais. Sessenta e oito estudantes de Odontologia passaram pelas etapas de treinamento teórico e prático para o diagnóstico radiográfico de cárie. O material foi constituído de exames radiográficos convencionais e digitalizados de 40 dentes humanos, sendo 20 pré-molares e 20 molares com alterações clínicas não tratadas em uma das superfícies proximais. Para avaliar a semelhança entre as referências de escores de diagnóstico radiográfico da cárie e a avaliação histológica foi aplicado o Coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse, que mediu a assertividade entre os escores dos estudantes e o verdadeiro diagnóstico, a qual foi classificada em níveis de reprodutibilidade. Na avaliação da reprodutibilidade utilizando o coeficiente de correlação intraclasse, os valores obtidos para as imagens digitalizadas dos dentes pré-molares foram considerados satisfatórios, onde os estudantes do sétimo semestre mais se aproximaram do diagnóstico correto. Conclui-se que os estudantes do sétimo semestre tiveram melhor desempenho no diagnóstico radiográfico de cáries proximais.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of the dental student in the diagnosis of proximal caries. Sixty-eight students of Dentistry underwent the stages of theoretical and practical training for the radiographic diagnosis of caries. The sample consisted of conventional and digitized radiographic examinations of 40 human teeth, 20 premolars and 20 molars with untreated clinical alterations on one of the proximal surfaces. To evaluate the similarity between the references of the radiographic diagnosis scores of the caries and the histological evaluation, the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient was used, which measured the assertiveness between the students' scores and the true diagnosis, which was classified in levels of reproducibility. In the evaluation of reproducibility using the intraclass correlation coefficient, the values obtained for the digitized images of the premolar teeth were considered satisfactory, where the students of the seventh semester more approached the correct diagnosis. It was concluded that the seventh semester students had better performance in the radiographic diagnosis of proximal caries.

Infiltração resinosa em lesões brancas cariosas e não cariosas: relato de casos / Infiltración resinosa em lesiones blancas cariosas y no cariosas: Reporte de Casos / Resinous infiltration in carious and non-carious white lesions: Case Reports

Introdução: O processo de desmineralização proveniente da cárie leva à formação de manchas brancas que são a primeira manifestação visível da doença. Os infiltrantes resinosos surgem como uma alternativa para o tratamento dessas lesões não cavitadas, pois sãoresinas de baixa viscosidade e faz parte dos procedimentos que visam uma odontologia menos invasiva. Objetivo: Este estudo objetiva relatar a experiência clínica no uso de infiltrante resinoso, Icon, em lesões de mancha branca de etiologias cariosa e não cariosa em dois pacientes distintos, insatisfeitos com a estética do seu sorriso. Descrição do caso: Ao exame clínico foi observado nos pacientes com lesões brancas. No primeiro paciente, de 14 anos, verificou-se a presença da atividade de cárie e micro cavitações. Dessa forma, o plano de tratamento perpassou orientação de higiene oral supervisionada, aplicação de verniz fluoretado, Enamelast, semanal, adequação do meio com restaurações em resina, e só então o uso do infiltrante. A segunda paciente, de 11 anos, já possuía saúde bucal adequada e tinha queixa estética devido à lesão branca não cariosa, hipoplasia, cujo plano de tratamento foi à utilização do Icon apenas. Conclusões: Nos dois casos obteve-se melhoria estética considerável com este procedimento microinvasivo. Melhoria na saúde bucal, aliado à devolução da estética, pode ser observada com o uso de infiltrantes resinosos (AU).

Introduction: The process of demineralization resulting from caries leads to the formation of white spots that are the first visible manifestation of the disease. Resin infiltrants appear as an alternative for the treatment of these non-cavitated lesions, since they are low viscosity resins and are part of the procedures that aim at a less invasive dentistry.Objective:This study aims to report the clinical experience in the use of a resin infiltrant, Icon,in white spot lesions of carious and non-carious etiologies in two different patients who were dissatisfied with the esthetics of their smiles.Methodology: On clinical examination, white lesions were observed in both patients. In the first patient,14 years old,the presence of caries activity and micro cavitations was verified. Thus, the treatment plan included supervised oral hygiene guidance, weekly application of fluoride varnish,Enamelast, adaptation of the environment with resin restorations, and, onlythen, the use of the infiltrant, Icon. The second patient, 11 years old,already had adequate oral health and had an esthetic complaint due to a non-carious white lesion, hypoplasia, whose treatment plan consisted of the use of Icon only.Conclusions:In both cases considerable esthetic improvement was obtained with this microinvasive procedure. Improvement in oral health, combined with the return of esthetics, can be observed with the use of resin infiltrants (AU).

Introducción: El proceso de desmineralización resultante de la caries conduce a la formación de manchas blancas, que son la primera manifestación visible de la enfermedad. Losinfiltrantes de resina aparecen como una alternativa para el tratamiento de estas lesiones no cavitadas, pues se tratan de resinas de baja viscosidad y forman parte de los procedimientos que buscan una odontología menos invasiva. Objetivo:Este estudio tiene como objetivo relatar la experiencia clínica en el uso del infiltrante de resina,Iconen lesiones de mancha blanca de etiologías cariosas y no cariosas en dos pacientes diferentes, insatisfechos con la estética de sus sonrisas.Metodología: En el examen clínico se observaron lesiones blancas en ambos pacientes. En el primer paciente, 14 añosse verificó la presencia de actividad de caries y micro cavitaciones. De ese modo, el plan de tratamiento incluyó la orientación supervisada de la higiene bucal,la aplicación semanal de barniz de flúor (Enamelast), la adaptación del entorno con restauraciones de resina y, sólo después, el uso del infiltrante,Icon. La segunda paciente, 11 años,ya tenía una salud bucal adecuada y presentaba una queja estética debido a una lesión blanca no cariosa, hipoplasia, cuyo plan de tratamiento fue el uso exclusivo de Icon. Conclusiones: En ambos casos, se consiguió una mejora estética considerable con este procedimiento microinvasivo. La mejora de la salud bucal, unida a la recuperación de la estética, puede observarse con el uso de infiltrantes de resina (AU).

Indicaciones y contraindicaciones de los selladores de fosas y fisuras en pacientes adultos / Indications and contraindications of pit and fissure sealants in adult patients

El objetivo de la odontología preventiva es reducir al máximo el riesgo de desarrollar enfermedades bucodentales; para lograrlo, existen múltiples métodos como la aplicación de flúor, así como la colocación de selladores de fosas y fisuras. Los selladores son materiales resinosos capaces de cubrir y eliminar las retenciones de las fosas y fisuras características de la anatomía oclusal. Si bien los selladores son ampliamente utilizados en pacientes pediátricos, erróneamente se cree que su colocación está contraindicada en adultos. Los selladores son métodos preventivos capaces de beneficiar a cualquier paciente que los necesite, independientemente de su edad. El objetivo de este artículo es analizar y esclarecer las indicaciones y contraindicaciones de los selladores de fosas y fisuras en pacientes adultos (AU)

The objective of preventive dentistry is to minimize the risk of developing oral diseases and to achieve this there are multiple methods such as the application of fluoride, as well as the placement of pit and fissure sealants. Sealants are resinous materials capable of covering and eliminating retentions in pits and fissures characteristic of occlusal anatomy. Although sealants are widely used in pediatric patients, it is erroneously believed that their placement is contraindicated in adult patients. Sealants are preventive methods capable to benefiting any patient who needs them regardless of age. The aim of this article is to analyze and clarify the indications and contraindications of pit and fissure sealants in adult patients (AU)

Effect of lacteal products containing probiotic in the progression of tooth decay around orthodontic brackets

Objective: To evaluate the progression of caries around orthodontic brackets after the enamel has been exposed to lacteal products containing probiotics. Methods: Orthodontic brackets were bonded to the enamel surfaces. The test specimens were randomly divided into six groups: G1-negative control; G2-positive control, exposed to culture environment only (without microorganisms); G3-exposed to the cariogenic environment and the fermented cow's milk without probiotic; G4-exposed to the cariogenic environment and fermented cow's milk with probiotic; G5-exposed to the cariogenic environment and yogurt without probiotic; and G6-exposed to the cariogenic environment and yogurt with probiotic. The groups were placed in brain heart infusion medium, supplemented with 2% sucrose and with 1x106 cells/ml of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus salivarius (ATCC). The Shapiro-Wilk, Levene, Student t, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney tests were used. Results: all groups exposed to the ATCC strains showed lower final microhardness, compared to the negative control (p0.05). Conclusions: Lacteal products are not able to prevent the progression of caries around orthodontic brackets.

Percepción parental de calidad de vida relacionada con salud oral en niños de 6 a 10 años

Introducción: La caries es una de las enfermedades crónicas que más afecta a la humanidad, los niños son un grupo de alto riesgo de presentarla. La Calidad de Vida Relacionada con Salud Oral (CVRSO) se refiere a la percepción de las condiciones bucales de uno mismo y la manera en que los factores afectados impactan el bienestar y desempeño en las actividades diarias, el desarrollo de indicadores de esta se ve limitado por el nivel cognitivo de los niños, lo que genera el P-CPQ para determinar la percepción parental. Objetivo: determinar la percepción parental de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud bucal de los niños de 6 a 10 años. Materiales y Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo con componente analítico. Se llevó a cabo una encuesta a 98 padres, el P-CPQ modificado que consta de 23 preguntas que abarcan las subescalas de síntomas orales, limitaciones funcionales, bienestar emocional y bienestar social. Resultados: Relacionando los resultados del cuestionario con la presencia de caries en dientes permanentes se reportó el aumento de caries con la edad; el sexo femenino predominó entre los participantes con caries siendo el 63,8%. La puntuación media fue de 13,6 (DE=13,1). Se presentó una asociación estadísticamente significativa entre la percepción parental de CVRSO de los niños y la presencia de caries dental en dientes permanentes (p=0,004). Conclusiones: Se concluyó que la presencia de caries en dientes permanentes en niños de 6 a 10 años puede disminuir significativamente la CVRSO en las dimensiones de síntomas orales, limitaciones funcionales y bienestar social.

Introduction: Caries is one of the chronic diseases that most affects humanity; children are a high-risk group for developing it. Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQL) refers to the perception of one's own oral conditions and the way in which the affected factors impact well-being and performance in daily activities. The development of indicators of this is limited by the cognitive level of the children, which led to the P-CPQ to determine parental perception. Objective: to determine the parental perception of the quality of life related to the oral health of children from 6 to 10 years old. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive and observational study with an analytical component. A survey of 98 parents was conducted, using the modified P-CPQ which consists of 23 questions covering the subscales of oral symptoms, functional limitations, emotional well-being, and social well-being. Results: Relating the results of the questionnaire with the presence of cavities in permanent teeth, an increase in cavities with age was reported; the female sex predominated among the participants with cavities, being 63.8%. The mean score was 13.6 (SD=13.1). There was a statistically significant association between parental perception of children's OHRQL and the presence of dental caries in permanent teeth (p=0.004). Conclusions: The presence of caries in permanent teeth in children aged 6 to 10 years can significantly reduce OHRQLin the dimensions of oral symptoms, functional limitations and social well-being.

Microbiota of dental caries in primary teeth of a Costa Rican Child population / Microbiota de la caries dental en piezas primarias de una población infantil costarricense

Abstract The objective of this research was to identify bacteria present in the microbiota of dentinal carious lesions in primary molars of some Costa Rican pediatric patients. Data were collected from 15 children aged between 4 and 8 years old who attended the Pediatric Dentistry Clinic at the Faculty of Dentistry from the University of Costa Rica (UCR). The inclusion criteria were: infants between 4 and 8 years old who presented cavitated carious lesions in primary teeth, who were actively attended by students at the Faculty of Dentistry from the UCR, and whose parents or legal guardians signed the informed consent to participate in this research. Samples were taken using a sterile spoon, placed in storage vials, and subjected to various conventional and molecular microbial identification techniques, such as Gram stain identification, catalase tests, oxidase, TSI, API 20E, API STAPH, and VITEK 2. Of the 60 bacterial strains subjected to Gram staining, the following was obtained: 28 Gram-positive bacteria and 32 Gram-negative bacteria. The main isolated organisms were species of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pasteurella pneumotropica/Mannheimia haemolytica, Pantoea spp, and Streptococcus mutans.

Resumen El objetivo de esta investigación fue identificar las bacterias presentes en la microbiota de lesiones cariosas dentinales en molares primarias de pacientes pediátricos costarricenses. Las muestras fueron recolectadas de 15 niños entre los 4 y 8 años que fueron atendidos en la Clínica de Odontopediatría en la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR). Los criterios de inclusión fueron: pacientes entre los 4 y los 8 años de edad que presentaran lesiones cariosas cavitadas en dientes primarios, que se encuentraran activos para su atención por estudiantes de la Facultad de Odontología de la UCR, y que los padres o encargados legales firmaran el consentimiento informado para participar en esta investigación. Las muestras se tomaron utilizando una cuchareta estéril, colocándolas en viales de almacenamiento y fueron sometidas a diversas técnicas de identificación microbiana convencionales y moleculares tales como: identificación por Tinción de Gram, pruebas catalasa, oxidasa, TSI, API 20E, API STAPH y VITEK. De las 60 cepas bacterianas sometidas a tinción de Gram se obtuvo: 28 bacterias Gram Positivas y 32 bacterias Gram Negativas. Los principales organismos aislados fueron: especies de Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pasteurella pneumotropica/ Mannheimia haemolytica, Pantoea spp y Streptococcus mutans.

Ludwig's angina complicating pregnancy: an unusual presentation

Pregnancy is a state of several physiological changes, which predisposes many to oral health problems. However, the majority of pregnant women do not receive oral health counseling. Pregnant women who receive inadequate dental care are at risk for odontogenic infections, which can have serious consequences. Here we are presenting a case of 32 weeks pregnancy with Ludwig's angina complicated by acute renal failure.

Control de la biopelícula con materiales bioactivos en pacientes adolescentes: reporte de caso / Biofilm control with bioactive materials in adolescents' patients: case report

El objetivo del artículo es reportar el desempeño clínico en el control y disminución de la placa bacteriana en pacientes adolescentes mediante un gel y barniz con partículas S-PRG. Se realizaron tratamientos con materiales bioactivos con tecnología GIOMER en 2 pacientes. En el primer caso se realizó una profilaxis con Pro Care Gel (S-PRG) en un paciente de 15 años con problemas neuromotores para eliminar la placa y posteriormente, se aplicó un barniz con partículas de S-PRG para prevenir la formación de biofilm. En el segundo caso, un adolescente de 15 años normoreactivo con inflamación gingival recibió el tratamiento profilaxis con PRG Pro Care Gel.Se observó una disminución de placa bacteriana tras la profilaxis con el gel Pro Care y la aplicación del barniz en el primer caso. Además, existió una baja incidencia de biofilm incluso después de 11 meses de la aplicación del barniz. En el segundo caso, a las 2 horas de aplicación, se observó una disminución total de la placa. Clínicamente se observó el bueno desempeño clínico de los materiales con partículas de S-PRG, como lo demuestra la literatura científica en cuanto a la reducción de la formación de placa bacteriana en las estructuras dentarias, la desinflamación gingival, proporciona bienestar a los pacientes y restaura la salud bucal de forma menos invasiva.

The objective of the article is to report the clinical performance in the control and reduction of bacterial plaque in adolescent patients using a gel and varnish with S-PRG particles. Treatments with bioactive materials with GIOMER technology were performed in two patients. In the first case, prophylaxis was performed with Pro Care Gel (S-PRG) in a 15-year-old patient with neuromotor problems to eliminate plaque and subsequently, a varnish with S-PRG particles was applied to prevent biofilm formation. In the second case, a normal 15-year-old adolescent with gingival inflammation received prophylaxis treatment with PRG Pro Care Gel. A decrease in bacterial plaque was observed after prophylaxis with the Pro Care gel and the application of the varnish in the first case. Furthermore, there was a low incidence of biofilm even after 11 months of varnish application. In the second case, after 2 hours of application, a total decrease in plaque was observed. The good clinical performance of materials with S-PRG particles was clinically perceived, as demonstrated by the scientific literature in terms of reducing the formation of bacterial plaque in dental structures, gingival disinflammation, providing well-being to patients and restoring oral health in a less invasive way.

Dental caries and fissure sealant prevalence in first permanent molars among school boys aged 9 to 12 in Riyadh city, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

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.

A review on four medicinal plants in dentistry

Dental caries and periodontal problems still remain a global health care burden. In developing and underdeveloped countries, the unmet treatment needs of a large part of population is a challenge to the service providers. WHO believes that oral health is a right to everyone. The use of traditional medicine helps in achieving these goals to a large extent. Medicinal plants are a basis for conventional medicine and a substitute for them. Thus, it becomes a matter of importance to have a greater understanding of the pharmacologically active components of the herbal components and their various uses in dentistry. This article aims to understand the phytotherapeutic uses of four commonly used herbal plants, miswak, moringa, triphala and neem.

Dental restorative materials and special consideration for the elderly

With the global population aging, the oral health of elderly individuals faces unique challenges, particularly concerning dental caries. Root caries, in particular, have become a growing concern due to the significant number of retained teeth in older adults. This review delves into the frequency of root caries among older individuals and examines the limitations of existing dental restorative materials, including amalgam, glass ionomer cement, and light-cured composite resin, in meeting the unique requirements of the elderly. It underscores the urgent necessity for improving the antibacterial, bonding, remineralization, strength, and durability characteristics of these materials. Additionally, the study discusses factors related to aging, treatment planning, and special considerations in geriatric dental care. The review also delves into the challenges associated with providing dental care to elderly individuals, including depression, postural hypotension, prescribed drugs, delayed healing, adaptive potential, mucosal quality, and poor plaque control. Moreover, it addresses the role of xerostomia, bruxism, and certain medical conditions in exacerbating dental issues in the elderly. It also introduces novel anticariogenic restorative materials, such as antimicrobial materials, remineralization materials, and self-healing/low-shrinkage materials, highlighting their potential to improve oral health in older individuals.

MobileNetV3 network-based diagnosis of caries and periapical periodontitis from periapical films / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To research the effectiveness of deep learning techniques in intelligently diagnosing dental caries and periapical periodontitis and to explore the preliminary application value of deep learning in the diagnosis of oral diseases@*Methods@#A dataset containing 2 298 periapical films, including healthy teeth, dental caries, and periapical periodontitis, was used for the study. The dataset was randomly divided into 1 573 training images, 233 validation images, and 492 test images. By comparing various neural network models, the MobileNetV3 network model with better performance was selected for dental disease diagnosis, and the model was optimized by tuning the network hyperparameters. The accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score were used to evaluate the model's ability to recognize dental caries and periapical periodontitis. Class activation map was used to visualization analyze the performance of the network model@*Results@#The algorithm achieved a relatively ideal intelligent diagnostic effect with precision, recall, and accuracy of 99.42%, 99.73%, and 99.60%, respectively, and the F1 score was 99.57% for classifying healthy teeth, dental caries, and periapical periodontitis. The visualization of the class activation maps also showed that the network model can accurately extract features of dental diseases.@*Conclusion@#The tooth lesion detection algorithm based on the MobileNetV3 network model can eliminate interference from image quality and human factors and has high diagnostic accuracy, which can meet the needs of dental medicine teaching and clinical applications.