Public health challenges of restorative dental practice in low resource settings during the Covid-19 pandemic

Background: COVID-19 remains a major public health threat globally, and has challenged healthcare systems and services including oral health Objective: This study examines the key public health challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in low resource settings. While healthcare services are learning to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, dental care services, in particular restorative dental practice have been adversely impacted because of the closeness of caregivers to the patient's mouth as well as the generation of aerosols during most restorative procedures. This presents a challenge for low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Nigeria where weak and poor governance structures characterize healthcare systems in addition to paucity of economic resources. Another challenge in the form of COVID-19 conspiracy theories has threatened to undermine public health efforts designed to control the pandemic. Conclusion: The implementation of optimal guidelines and safety protocols for effective COVID -19 infection prevention and control is a major challenge for restorative dental care practice in low resource settings owing to paucity of key material resources and inappropriate behaviour associated with lingering doubts about COVID-19 reality among the majority of the populace. The Safer Aerosol-Free Emergent Dentistry concept offers a viable practical approach for restorative dental practice in LMICs during and in the post COVID-19 pandemic era. There is a need to deploy all resources, human and material, in the education and enlightenment of the populace regarding the reality of COVID-19.

Oral Health Knowledge, Attitude and Practices among Adolescents in Choma District of Zambia

Introduction:Dentalcariesandperiodontaldiseases are the most common oral diseases globally. Early control of oral health behaviours is importantbecauselifestylesacquiredduringadolescence are powerful predictors of adult health. We conducted a study to determine knowledge, attitude and practices on oral hygiene among school-going adolescents in Choma district of Zambia.Methodology:Across-sectionalstudywasconducted among school-going adolescents in randomly selected schools in Choma District. Atotal of 335 participants were included in the study. Data were collected using a closed-end self-administered questionnaire. The sample size was distributed among the six schools in the ratio of their population. The study included anyone from grades 8-12. Data were analysed using IBM software for SPSS. We employedthe Chi-Squaretesttoinvestigate the association between variables. Ap-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The study had 173 males and 162 females in the age range of 12-19 years. The majority (87.8%) had good knowledge, 69.4% had good attitude and 87.5% had good practice on oral -hygiene. Practice was influenced by sex with females having good oral hygiene as compared to their male counterparts. About 97.2% thought that dental health education is essential in schools. 34% indicated that they had visited the dentist when they experienced a toothache. However, parental advice to regularly visit the dentist was low (n=39).The majority 49.9% (n=167) indicated that they had not visited the dentist due to fear of the dental equipment set up.Conclusion and recommendation: Despite the majority having good knowledge and attitude on oral hygiene, there is a need to acquaint children with milling and dental units found in most dental offices. This may instil confidence in children to seek specialist dental treatment whenever they develop any dental disease. Further,parents need to be incorporated as partners in promoting oral health hygiene among school-going adolescents.

Dental practice modification, protocol compliance and risk perception of dentists during COVID-19 pandemic in Colombia: a cross-sectional study / Modificación de la práctica odontológica, seguimiento a protocolos y percepción de riesgo de los odontólogos durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Colombia: estudio de corte transversal

ABSTRACT Introduction: this study aimed to evaluate practice modification, use of personal protective equipment, biosafety measures, impact on career plans, prevalence of contagion, and risk perception of dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic 19 in Colombia. Methods: this is a cross-sectional study. Following ethical approval, an anonymous digital survey was conducted with dentists in Colombia. The questions comprised four domains: 1) sociodemographic, 2) employment and impact on career plans, 3) protocol compliance and biosafety, and 4) knowledge, risk, and contagion risk perception. A descriptive analysis of the data is presented. Results: 5,370 general and specialist dentists participated in the study (women: 3878; average age: 45 years). 41.94% were general dentists. Compliance with safety guidelines and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was greater than 99%. The majority of dentists (91.29%) canceled their clinical activities during quarantine and have thought about reducing their working hours (77.96%). The perception of COVID-19 risk contagion was high (95.91% reported that contagion is likely/highly likely), although COVID-19 contagion self-report was low (0.61%). Conclusion: COVID-19 pandemic has strongly impacted the practice of dentistry in Colombia, leading to changes in clinical activities and career prospects. Biosafety measures compliance and PPE use was high. Although the contagion risk perception was high, self-reported contagion was very low.

Resumen Introducción: este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la modificación de la práctica, uso de elementos de protección personal, protocolos de bioseguridad, afectación en los planes de carrera, prevalencia de contagio y percepción de riesgo de los odontólogos durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Colombia. Métodos: tras obtener la aprobación ética, se aplicó una encuesta digital anónima a los odontólogos de Colombia. Las preguntas incluyeron cuatro dominios: 1) sociodemográficos, 2) laborales y afectación en los planes de carrera, 3) Seguimiento a protocolos y bioseguridad y 4) Conocimientos, riesgo y percepción de riesgo de contagio. Se presenta un análisis descriptivo de los datos. Resultados: 5370 odontólogos generales y especialistas participaron del estudio (mujeres: 3878; mediana de edad: 45 años). El 41,94% fueron odontólogos generales. La adherencia a protocolos de seguridad y el uso de elementos de protección personal (EPP) fue mayor al 99%. La mayoría de odontólogos (91,29%) suspendió sus actividades clínicas durante la cuarentena y ha pensado en disminuir sus horas de trabajo (77,96%). La percepción de riesgo de contagio de la COVID-19 fue alta (95,91% refirió que es muy probable/probable el contagio), aunque el auto-reporte de contagio por COVID-19 fue bajo (0,61%). Conclusión: la pandemia de la COVID-19 ha impactado fuertemente la práctica de la odontología en Colombia, generando cambios en las actividades clínicas y en las perspectivas de carrera. El seguimiento de protocolos de bioseguridad y de uso de EPP fue alto. Aunque la percepción de riesgo de contagio fue alta, el contagio auto-reportado fue muy bajo.

Impacto económico en el medio odontológico durante la pandemia del COVID-19: revisión integradora / Economic impact in the dental field during COVID-19 pandemic: integrative review

La pandemia por COVID-19 no sólo ha generado un impacto negativo en la salud, sino que la economía global también se ha visto mermada, afectando más a los países subdesarrollados. Con relación a estos daños en las finanzas de los profesionales de la salud, existen algunos efectos que derivan de la pandemia COVID-19, los cuales tienen una fuerte repercusión en la economía de todos los trabajadores a nivel mundial y el ámbito odontológico no es la excepción. Esta revisión se obtuvo mediante la búsqueda de la información en una exploración electrónica en las bases de datos PubMed, Cochrane Library, LILACS, SciELO y Latindex. El impacto económico derivado de esta pandemia, sin lugar a dudas, ha afectado la economía de los odontólogos de práctica pública y privada, por lo que la toma de decisiones en la odontología debe contemplar un uso equilibrado de los recursos financieros (AU)

The COVID-19 pandemic has not only generated a negative impact on health, but the global economy has also been reduced, being the underdeveloped countries the most affected ones. In relation to these damages in the finances of health professionals, there are some effects that derive from the COVID-19 pandemic, having a strong impact on the economy of all workers worldwide and the dental field is no exception. This review was obtained by searching the information through an electronic examination in databases like PubMed, Cochrane Library, LILACS, SciELO and Latindex databases. The economic impact derived from this pandemic has undoubtedly affected the economy of dentists in public and private practice, so that decision-making in dentistry must consider a balanced use of financial resources (AU)

Recomendaciones para Resolución de Urgencias Odontológicas en Atención Primaria de Salud Durante la Pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 / Recommendations for the Resolution of Dentistry Emergencies in Primary Health During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic

RESUMEN: La enfermedad originada por el nuevo tipo de coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, se ha convertido en un problema de Salud Pública a nivel mundial. Esto ha llevado a posponer las atenciones clínicas electivas de pacientes, exceptuando las atenciones de urgencia o emergencia. Las urgencias odontológicas han continuado con alta demanda en el Sistema Público de Salud durante la pandemia COVID-19, e incluso han aumentado en severidad de los cuadros. Las restricciones de horario y las medidas implementadas a nivel país, llevan a que los pacientes consulten en el Centro de Salud más cercano a su domicilio, es decir, Centro de Salud Familiar (CESFAM) o en los Servicios de Atención Primaria de Urgencia (SAPU). Como Cirujanos Dentistas somos parte de un equipo multidisciplinario de salud, por lo que debemos conocer la enfermedad de COVID-19, sus principales signo s, síntomas y riesgos asociados. El Cirujano Dentista es indispensable en el diagnóstico, tratamiento y derivación oportuna de enfermedades buco-maxilofaciales, las cuales pueden afectar de forma física y psicológica a los pacientes, llegando a producir complicaciones sistémicas graves si no son tratadas oportunamente. La atención odontológica actual debe incluir el manejo previo, durante y posterior al tratamiento del paciente de APS. Debemos considerar que el personal odontológico tiene un elevado riesgo de transmisión viral, debido a la cercanía con fluidos desde la cavidad oral del paciente. En este artículo se entregaran recomendaciones, basadas en la mejor evidencia disponible y la experiencia clínica actual para la atención odontológica de urgencias enfocadas en la Atención Primaria de Salud.

ABSTRACT: The disease caused by the new coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 has become a world wide public health problem. This has lead to pospone elective clinical care, maintaining urgent and emergency care. Dental emergency maintains high demand, even more severe clinical situations, at the public health system during the pandemic COVID-19. The local restrictions implemented makes patients to consult at the closest health center, like the Family health centers (CESFAM) or at primary health urgency centers (SAPU). As dental surgeons, part of the multidisciplinary health team, it is a duty to know the COVID-19, signs, simptoms and associated risks. The dental surgeon it is essential in the diagnosis, traetment and timely referral of maxilofacial diseases, wich can affect patients physically and psychologically, even leading to serious systemic complications if not treated promptly. Dental care should have previous, during and posterior considerations in pandemic situations. Dental staff has high viral transmisión risk, due to closeness with oral cavity fluids. This article will provide evidence based recommendations and current clinical experience for dental emergency care at primary health centers.

Uso de la ecografía como método diagnóstico y ayuda terapéutica en la práctica odontológica. Una revisión / Use of ultrasound as a diagnostic method and therapeutic tool in dental practice. A review

La ecografía es una ayuda diagnóstica en el área de la salud que se usa para evaluar el desarrollo intrauterino, observar el comportamiento de lesiones, valorar órganos internos y acompañar procedimientos clínicos específicamente en la medicina, pero en la odontología es un campo en el que apenas se está explorando e incursionando para incluirlo como parte de los métodos diagnósticos de rutina en la consulta clínica. El creciente interés por investigar su uso como método diagnóstico y terapéutico en la odontología se basa en las bondades que tiene y en cómo puede facilitar muchos procesos por tratarse de una ayuda diagnóstica accesible, económica y poco nociva para la salud. En el presente artículo se exponen los diferentes usos que se le da a la ecografía en las diferentes especialidades odontológicas, y se la compara con otros métodos diagnósticos. (AU)

In medicine, ultrasound is especially useful to evaluate intrauterine development, cyst behavior, and internal organs, but the use of ultrasound in dentistry has only recently been explored and used in the daily routine diagnostic methods in clinical dental practice. The growing interest in the use of ultrasound as a diagnostic and therapeutic method in dentistry has led to studies investigating its benefits in relation to accessibility, cost and innocuousness to health. This review describes the current use of ultrasound in different dental specialties and compares it with other diagnostic methods. (AU)

Aplicação de práticas integrativas e complementares na odontologia / Application of complementary and integrative practices in dentistry

A incorporação de novas tecnologias e métodos para proporcionar um atendimento odontológico mais confortável, humano e menos invasivo, propiciou o uso de terapias alternativas e complementares em Odontologia. Objetivo: revisar a literatura e assim fornecer ao cirurgião-dentista maiores informações a respeito dos recursos alternativos e complementares utilizados no consultório odontológico. Materiais e Métodos: A pesquisa foi realizada utilizando termos Decs e operadores boleanos. As bases de dados consultadas foram Pubmed, Lilacs, Scielo e Google Scholar, no ano de 2020, e após aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade, foram selecionados 65 estudos, dentre estudos clínicos randomizados e não-randomizados, estudos observacionais, revisões sistemáticas e não ­ sistemáticas. Resultados e Discussão: Destaca-se as terapias: Acupuntura, Crioterapia, Fitoterapia, Hipnose, Homeopatia, Laserterapia, Massoterapia, Musicoterapia, Ozonioterapia, Terapia fotodinâmica e Toxina Botulínica, nas suas diversas pluralidades de aplicação, não somente para a área odontológica, mas na integralização com diversos campos, atuando no físico e psíquico. Conclusão: Diante dos achados, pode-se concluir que grande parte das terapias complementares são bem empregadas em Odontologia. Entretanto, mais evidências científicas são essenciais para o desempenho de tais práticas. Isto as tornará eficazes e seguras, tanto na atenção à saúde em âmbito público, quanto privado, permitindo à população brasileira beneficiar-se das terapias como alternativas eficientes e de baixo custo.

The incorporation of new technologies and methods to provide a more comfortable, humane and less invasive dental care, favored the use of alternative and complementary therapies in Dentistry. Objective: to review the literature and thus provide the dentist with more information about alternative and complementary resources used in the dental office. Materials and Methods: The research was carried out using terms Decs and Boolean operators. The databases consulted were Pubmed, Lilacs, Scielo and Google Scholar, in 2020, and after applying the eligibility criteria, 65 studies were selected, among randomized and non-randomized clinical studies, observational studies, systematic reviews and non- systematic. Results and Discussion: Therapies stand out: Acupuncture, Cryotherapy, Phytotherapy, Hypnosis, Homeopathy, Laser Therapy, Massage Therapy, Music Therapy, Ozone Therapy, Photodynamic Therapy and Botulinum Toxin, in their diverse application areas, not only in the dental field, but in integration with several fields, working in the physical and psychic. Conclusion: Given the findings, it can be concluded that most complementary therapies are well used in dentistry. However, more scientific evidence is essential for the performance of such practices. This will make them effective and safe, both in public and private health care, allowing the Brazilian population to benefit from therapies as efficient and low-cost alternatives.

Colombia y Uruguay ante la COVID-19: datos epidemiológicos, medidas generales y en la práctica odontológica / Colombia and Uruguay in the face of COVID-19: epidemiological data, general and dental practice measures

Objetivo: analizar los datos epidemiológicos y las medidas generales en la práctica odontológica tomadas por Colombia y Uruguay durante la pandemia por la COVID-19. Métodos: este trabajo es una revisión de la literatura. Se consultaron las bases de datos "PubMed", "Scielo" y el motor de búsqueda "Google Scholar". También se consultaron bases de datos de libre acceso como google, our world in data y las páginas oficiales de la Organización Mundial de la Salud, el Ministerio de Salud de Colombia, el Instituto Nacional de Salud y el Ministerio de Salud Pública de Uruguay. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo del comportamiento epidemiológico y de las medidas tomadas en la práctica odontológica en los dos países. Resultados: en Colombia, a diario, se presentan más de 3.000 casos nuevos y más de 100 muertes. Lo contrario ocurre en Uruguay, que ha logrado disminuir las tasas de contagio y de muertes, presentando menos de 10 casos y ninguna muerte diaria. Los profesionales de la salud han incrementado su lucha; los odontólogos se encuentran expuestos por su proximidad al momento de la atención, en el contacto con saliva, sangre y la generación de aerosoles, por lo que han modificado los protocolos de bioseguridad buscando prevenir los contagios asociados a la prestación de servicio. Conclusiones: Uruguay ha tenido un comportamiento ejemplar ante la pandemia; en Colombia los resultados son preocupantes dado el crecimiento exponencial. En ambos países la práctica odontológica se ha visto afectada y se han implementado nuevos protocolos para proteger a profesionales y pacientes.

Objective: Analyze the epidemiological data, general and dental practice measures taken by Colombia and Uruguay in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This study is a review. We search in the databases "PubMed", "Scielo" and in the search engine "Google Scholar". Also, were consulted the free databases like google, our world in data and the official pages of the World Health Organization, Ministry of Health of Colombia, The National institute of health and the Ministry of public Health of Uruguay. A descriptive analysis of the epidemiological behavior and the measures taken of dental practice in both countries was done. Results: Colombia had more than 3,000 new cases and more than 100 deaths daily. The opposite occurs in Uruguay, which has managed to decrease the infection and death rates, presenting less than 10 cases and no daily deaths. The struggles experienced by health professionals has increased, dentists are exposed, by their proximity at the time of care, to contact with saliva, blood and the generation of aerosols, therefore, they have modified the biosafety protocols, seeking to prevent infections associated with the practice. Conclusions: Uruguay has an exemplary behavior; in Colombia these results are worrying with an exponential growth. In both countries, dental practice has been affected and new protocols have been implemented that seek to protect the professionals and patients.

COVID-19 pandemic and dental practice in Ghana

With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare systems and their provision of care has globally been challenged, including the delivery of Oral healthcare. In Ghana, it has become imperative that healthcare delivery including the practice of Dentistry and its sub-specialties be re-oriented in our peculiar setting to ensure minimal risk of spread of the infection. This article discusses the impact of COVID-19 on the practice of Dentistry in the country

Irreversible pulpitis - a source of antibiotic over-prescription?

Abstract Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health concern. Antibiotics continue to be prescribed by some clinicians to resolve dental pain even though research indicates that antibiotics are not effective for treating conditions such as irreversible pulpitis. The objective of this study was to determine the extent to which current research and evidence around irreversible pulpitis has been translated into dental practice and the gaps in dentists' knowledge. An on-line clinical vignette format survey questionnaire about treatment of irreversible pulpitis was distributed to the members of the Academy of Operative Dentistry and Academy of General Dentistry (US based international dental bodies). Their responses were recorded and evaluated. A total of 403 dentists participated in the survey. Over a third (39.3%) indicated they would prescribe antibiotics for symptomatic irreversible pulpitis in a permanent tooth occurring without any signs of systemic infection. The rest indicated they would not prescribe antibiotics; most of them would prescribe an analgesic combined with pulpectomy. Those who had undertaken advanced education training achieved a significantly higher mean knowledge score compared to those with just a primary dental degree (p=0.011). Similarly, full or part time academicians had a higher mean knowledge score than the clinicians who work only in private practice (p=0.014). Some dentists continue to prescribe antibiotics inappropriately for alleviating pain due to irreversible pulpitis. Antibiotic prescribing practices of dentists with advanced education or academic engagement were better as compared to the other participants. There is clear evidence of antibiotic over-prescribing for irreversible pulpitis which needs to be addressed urgently.

Resumo A resistência aos antibióticos é uma preocupação crescente para a saúde pública. Os antibióticos continuam a ser prescritos por alguns dentistas para resolver a dor dentária, embora pesquisas indiquem que os antibióticos não são eficazes no tratamento de condições como a pulpite irreversível. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar em que medida as pesquisas atuais e as evidências em torno da pulpite irreversível foram traduzidas em prática odontológica e as lacunas existentes no conhecimento dos dentistas. Um questionário de pesquisa em formato de vinheta clínica on-line sobre o tratamento da pulpite irreversível foi distribuído para os membros da Academia de Odontologia Operatória e da Academia de Odontologia Geral (órgãos dentários internacionais dos EUA). Suas respostas foram registradas e avaliadas. Um total de 403 dentistas participou da pesquisa. Mais de um terço (39,3%) indicaram que prescreveriam antibióticos para pulpite irreversível sintomática em um dente permanente sem qualquer sinal de infecção sistêmica. O restante respondeu que eles não prescreveriam antibióticos; a maioria deles prescreveria um analgésico combinado com pulpectomia. Aqueles que realizaram o treinamento de educação avançada obtiveram uma pontuação de conhecimento médio significativamente maior em comparação com aqueles com apenas um grau primário de conhecimento odontológico (p=0,011). Da mesma forma, acadêmicos em tempo integral ou parcial tiveram uma pontuação média de conhecimento maior do que os clínicos que trabalham apenas em consultório particular (p=0,014). Alguns dentistas continuam a prescrever antibióticos inadequadamente para aliviar a dor decorrente de pulpite irreversível. Práticas de prescrição de antibióticos por dentistas com educação avançada ou envolvimento acadêmico foram melhores em comparação com os outros participantes. Há evidências claras de excesso de prescrição de antibiótico para pulpite irreversível que precisa ser tratada com urgência.

Percepção da saúde bucal em mulheres com perdas dentárias extensas / Perception of oral health in women with extensive dental losses

Resumo Este escrito tem por objetivo analisar a percepção de mulheres com perdas dentárias extensas sob o olhar da bucalidade. A pesquisa foi realizada com mulheres com essas características em uma cidade de pequeno porte no estado de Santa Catarina. A entrevista semiestruturada produziu narrativas que foram gravadas e transcritas. Depois da coleta dos dados, realizou-se a análise das informações encontradas, a fim de interpretar os dados obtidos. Os dados organizados e sistematizados resultaram em seis categorias temáticas: condição socioeconômica, representação social da prótese dentária, prática odontológica, sofrimento e dor, consequências e limitações, e gênero. Algumas percepções são bem marcantes no grupo estudado: extrair os dentes para colocar prótese dentária era motivo de alegria para algumas entrevistadas; as próteses eram desejadas, pois proporcionavam dentes bonitos. Outro achado importante refere-se à extração de dentes sadios, apenas no caso das mulheres, como preparação para o casamento. O estudo evidencia a necessidade de aprofundamento da compreensão dos eventos que ocorrem na boca, seja no cuidado bucal ou nas práticas cotidianas, no intuito de melhorar o entendimento desse espaço e, ao cabo, reunir elementos para pensar e produzir outra clínica, que inclua os sujeitos com suas diferenças e diversidade cultural.

Abstract This writing aims to analyze the perception of women with extensive dental losses under the gaze of buccality. The survey was conducted with women with extensive tooth loss in a small town in the state of Santa Catarina. The semi-structured interview produced narratives were recorded and transcribed. After collecting the data, we carried out the analysis of the information found in order to interpret the data obtained during the investigation. Organized and systematized data resulted in six thematic categories: socioeconomic condition, social representation of dental prosthesis, odontological practice, suffering and pain, consequences and limitations, gender. Some perceptions are well marked in the studied group, such as extracting teeth to put dental prosthesis was considered a cause for joy for some interviewees; the prostheses were coveted because they provide beautiful teeth. Another important finding refers to the extraction of healthy teeth, only for women, in preparation for marriage. The study highlights the need for deepening the understanding of the events that occur in the mouth, either in oral care or in daily practices in order to improve the understanding of this space and, gather elements to think and produce another clinic that includes the subjects with their differences and cultural diversity.

Place de la radiologie dans la pratique des chirurgiens-dentistes sénégalais

L'odontologie a naturellement bénéficié des innovations en imagerie médicale. L'examen radiologique est devenu une partie intégrante de la prise en charge odontologique. Ce travail avait pour objectif d'évaluer la place de la radiologie dans la pratique des chirurgiens-dentistes sénégalais.Matériels et méthodes.Il s'agissait d'une étude transversale descriptive réalisée auprès des chirurgiens-dentistes exerçant dans les secteurs du privé, et du public de la région de Dakar. Des questionnaires auto-administrés ont été distribués afin de recueillir les informations suivantes : le secteur d'activité, l'importance de la radiologie dans la pratique quotidienne, l'équipement en appareil radiologique, la fréquence de prescription des examens radiologiques. Les données ont été analysées avec le test chi-deux.RésultatsAu total, 132 chirurgiens-dentistes ont répondu aux questionnaires. Parmi eux 42% exerçaient dans le secteur privé, 28% dans le public et 20% étaient des praticiens hospitalo-universitaires. Le sexe ratio était de 2,14 et la moyenne d'âge était de 37 ans ± 11.Plus de 90% des chirurgiens-dentistes accordaient une grande importance aux examens d'imagerie dans leur pratique, 6,84% une importance moyenne. Les films argentiques étaient les plus utilisés avec 75% contre 25% de récepteurs numériques. Les examens radiologiques n'étaient prescrits de manière systématique que par 6,87% des chirurgiens-dentistes alors que 64,84% les prescrivaient de manière sélective et 27% utilisaient rarement.Conclusion: Cette étude a montré une insuffisance d'équipement radiologique et une attitude inadéquate de prescription des examens radiologiques des chirurgiens-dentistes de la région de Dakar Des formations continues en radiologie dentaire s'avèrent nécessaire pour une meilleure connaissance des examens radiologiques

Brazilian young dental practitioners' use and acceptance of digital radiographic examinations

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the use and acceptance of digital radiographic examinations by Brazilian dental practitioners in daily practice and to evaluate the advances that have occurred over the past 5 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Dental practitioners enrolled in extension courses at the Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Brazil, responded to a self-administered questionnaire in the years 2011 and 2015. They were asked about sociodemographic factors and their knowledge and use of digital radiographic examinations. Descriptive analysis was performed, as well as the chi-square and Fisher exact tests, with a significance level of 5% (α=0.05). RESULTS: A total of 181 participants responded to the questionnaire in the years 2011 and 2015. Most of the respondents worked in private practice, had graduated within the last 5 years, and were between 20 and 30 years old. In 2011, 55.6% of respondents reported having ever used digital radiographic examinations, while in 2015 this number increased significantly to 85.4% (p<.0001), out of which 71.4% preferred it to conventional images. Moreover, 21.4% of respondents reported having used digital radiographic examinations for more than 3 years. A significant increase in use of intraoral digital radiography (p=0.0316) was observed in 2015. In both years, image quality and high cost were indicated, respectively, as the main advantage and disadvantage of digital radiographic examinations. CONCLUSION: This study showed that digital radiology has become more common in Brazil over the past 5 years. Most of the Brazilian dental practitioners evaluated in 2015 used digital radiographic examinations.

The rise and development of general dentistry in China / 中华口腔医学杂志

General dentistry is an important part of the dental medicine and general dentists and general dentistry form the basis of clinical dental medicine. China's general dentistry has a long history, which started as an independent specialist in the 1990s. At present, the Chinese general dental medicine has received more and more attention as an independent profession. General dental medical model has been rapidly developed in the general hospital department of dentistry, private practice and community dentistry institutions, dental specialist hospitals and so on. In this paper, we will review the rise and development of China's general dentistry, and report its theoretical characteristics, institutional framework, academic progress, member development report, and look forward to its development in the future.

Medicalização social e odontologia: possíveis aproximações / Social medicalization and dentistry: possible approaches

A medicalização social transforma experiências e características pessoais em objetos de trabalho dos profissionais de saúde, gerando dependência progressiva de saberes/práticas profissionalizados. Apresenta-se um ensaio propondo uma aproximação do tema da medicalização social com o campo da odontologia, com ênfase nas práticas profissionais, contextualizado na contemporaneidade brasileira, no mercado privado e no Sistema Único de Saúde. Apontam-se pontos importantes para a formação e a pesquisa, dado ser este um tema de alta relevância e grande atravessamento com os saberes e práticas profissionais. Tópicos como: mercantilização das práticas, expansão das especialidades odontológicas e estéticas em odontologia, pouca exploração do campo de cuidado (e do potencial dos profissionais auxiliares), "motores" do processo (reducionismo biológico, poder da mídia e da propaganda, manipulação da legitimidade científica, abusos preventistas e de sobre tratamento), incipiente exploração das terapias complementares, dentre outros, são sinteticamente abordados, oferecendo uma aproximação crítica geral e algumas possibilidades de análise e desenvolvimento investigativo, conceitual e empírico do tema.

Abstract Social medicalization transforms personal traits and experiences into work objects for health professionals, generating a progressive dependence on professional knowledge and practice. The present essay aims to discuss this topic in the field of dentistry and oral health, with emphasis on the present professional practice in Brazil, both in the private and in the Brazilian National Health System (SUS). We point out problems that are crucial to education and research, since this is a topic of great relevance and reach in professional practice and debate. Issues such as commercialization of practices, growing of dentistry specialties and of aesthetic dentistry, scarce research on care (and on the potential of technicians); "engines" of this process (biological reductionism, the power of media and marketing, manipulation of scientific legitimacy, abuse of prevention practices and overtreatment); and incipient exploration of supplemental treatment, are discussed. This exposition offers a brief general analytical approach, and some analysis and investigative development possibilities of the subject, both conceptual and empirical.

Establishing an Eco-friendly Dental Practice: A Review.

Have dentists paused to think as to where the gloves, fixer, plastic waste, mercury waste, and X-ray films used in the clinic end up after disposal? Or considered how much water, electricity, and other resources our dental clinics use? Dentists need to take off their tinted glasses and consider the effects of their dental practice on the planet. Though individual dentists generate only small amounts of dental waste, the accumulated waste produced by the profession may have significant environmental impact. Thus the concept of “green dentistry” or “ecofriendly dentistry” has evolved. Eco-friendly dentistry is an environmentally friendly way of practicing dentistry by using techniques and equipment to reduce waste, conserve energy, decrease pollution, and reduce our carbon footprint. The incorporation of eco-friendly dentistry to the dental practice is not only effective from an environmental perspective but is cost-effective for the dentist too. If a dental practitioner is looking for a way to distinguish his clinic from the others, eco-friendly dentistry could be the answer. This article reviews the scientific literature on eco-friendly dentistry and suggests comprehensive steps to start an eco-friendly dental practice.

Termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido: uma questão de transparência e ética na prática odontológica / Informed consent form: a question of transparency and ethics in dental practice

A evolução da prática odontológica tem permitido que, cada vez mais, o paciente seja o centro das tomadas de decisão e, portanto, sujeito da profissão. De maneira alguma isso é resultado do questionamento da capacidade profissional, mas, sim, resultado da inclusão do indivíduo que recebe o tratamento como parte ativa do processo de decisão. Nesse sentido, é obrigação ética do profissional, da forma o mais completa possível, dar as informações adequadas ao paciente sobre o que se imagina e se vai realizar, assim como uma prerrogativa legal dos pacientes. Levando-se em consideração que a transparência da prática deve ser uma tônica, é importante que essas informações e esse esclarecimento sejam totalmente compreendidos pelo paciente. A utilização do Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido (TCLE) é um recurso que tem sido utilizado e que, na atualidade, faz parte da rotina obrigatória de uma prática ética. O objetivo deste artigo é fazer uma reflexão sobre a utilização do TCLE na prática odontológica como uma forma de deixar o sujeito da profissão – o paciente – corretamente informado de todo o entorno de sua saúde e dos procedimentos que serão realizados para seu restabelecimento. Além de ser uma forma de garantir que a informação tenha sido adequadamente repassada ao paciente, a utilização do TCLE também tem potencial de minimizar a judicialização da profissão...

The evolution of dental practice allowed for the increased participation of the patient in decision making process. This is a result of the questioning of the professional’s capacity, but it is the result of including the individual under treatment as an active part of the decision process. In this sense, it is an obligation of the professional, in a thorough way, give the adequate information about what he thinks and is going to perform. Taking into consideration that transparency in dental practice is a must, it is important that this information and clear understanding is comprehensively understood by the patient. Thus, the use of an Informed Consent Form is a tool that has been used and, nowadays, is part of the obligatory routine in an ethical dental practice. The aim of this paper is to make a reflection about the use of the Informed Consent Form in dental practice as a way of giving to the subject of the profession – the patient – correct information about his/her health state and about the procedures that will help in reestablishing health. Additionally to being a form of warranting a correct information of the patient, the use of the Informed Consent Form has the potential to minimize the judicialization of the profession...

Basic Resuscitation in Dental Office: A Review.

Medical emergencies are little understood by most dental surgeons. Medical emergencies can occur in dental clinics. Hence, there is a signifi cant need for increased awareness among dental professionals in the fi eld of emergency medicine. Every dental professional should be trained in emergencies occurring which have life-threatening potential and should be able to tackle life-threatening emergency anywhere in any situation. Dental professionals should be aware of protocols for initial stabilization of the patient in the dental offi ce at time of risk. Every patient expects his dentist to be familiar with emergency interventions which include basic life support, advanced life support and specifi c drugs to be administered in emergencies. Th is is a widely discussed topic with poor understanding among dental practitioners. Emergency can occur in any dental offi ce without any warnings. Further, it has been noted in recent times there is an increase in a number of medicolegal cases due to rise in a number of death in the dental chair. Th is review article aims at briefi ng the basic protocols required to manage the medical emergency having life-threatening potential occurring in the dental offi ce or elsewhere.

La morfología dental en contextos clínicos, antropológicos y forenses / Dental morphology in clinical, anthropological and forensic contexts

El propósito de este artículo es hacer una revisión de la literatura sobre los rasgos morfológicos dentales dentro de los contextos odontológico, antropológico y forense. Estos son empleados en la estimación de las relaciones biológicas entre poblaciones y relevantes en los problemas legales. Su naturaleza puede predisponer al desarrollo de procesos patológicos, de ahí la importancia de su conocimiento para el odontólogo general...

The purpose of this article is to review the literature on dental morphological traits within the dentistry, anthropological and forensic contexts. They are employed in the estimation of biological relations between populations and they are relevant to legal problems. Its nature may predispose the development of pathological processes, hence the importance of knowledge for the general dentist...

Iniciação científica: percepção do interesse de acadêmicos de odontologia de uma universidade brasileira / Scientific initiation: the perception of academic interest of dentistry of a Brazilian university

A iniciação científica é uma oportunidade aos acadêmicos de desenvolver senso crítico, ético e profissional, com o intuito de aumentar a evidenciação científica e conduzir o que de melhor a prática odontológica pode oferecer. A universidade é um cenário importante de estímulo e incentivo à pesquisa, tendo um papel fundamental no desenvolvimento desta atividade, sendo necessário o apoio institucional e de professores interessados. O objetivo é conhecer o interesse dos graduandos do curso de Odontologia da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo em relação à pesquisa científica. O estudo se caracteriza como descritivo transversal com abordagem quanti/qualitativa. A coleta de dados foi realizada com 101 acadêmicos do curso de Odontologia da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES) através de um questionário semiestruturado, pré-validado, contendo perguntas sobre o interesse em pesquisa, participação em jornadas científicas e sobre o Trabalho de Conclusão de Curso (TCC). Os resultados encontrados foram: 79,2% relatam gostar de pesquisa científica e 81,19% têm interesse em pesquisar. É principalmente no 3o e 4o períodos que os alunos começam a frequentar eventos científicos, e na sua maioria, no 5o e 6o períodos começam a elaborar e apresentar trabalhos científicos. Conclui-se que um número considerável de acadêmicos de Odontologia mostra interesse e participa de pesquisas científicas, mesmo que a falta de incentivo financeiro, apoio dos professores e da infraestrutura não colabore para a realização de estudos com maior evidência científica...

Undergraduate research is an opportunity for students to develop critical, ethical and professional thought, in order to increase the scientific disclosure and conducts in accordance to the best dental practice available. The university is an important scenario where to stimulate and encourage research, playing a key role in the development of this activity; for that, institutional support and interested teachers is necessary. The objective of this research is to know the interest of undergraduate students of Dentistry at the Federal University of Espirito Santo regarding scientific research. The study is characterized as a cross-sectional, quantitative / qualitative approach. Data collection was conducted with 101 students of Dentistry at Federal University of Espirito Santo (UFES) through a semi-structured, pre-validated questionnaire, including questions about the interest in research, participation in scientific conferences and Graduation Monography. The results were: 79.2% reported liking for scientific research and has 81.19% interest in research. It is mainly in the 3rd and 4th periods that students begin to attend scientific meetings, and mostly on the 5th and 6th period begin to prepare and present scientific papers. It is concluded that considerable number of dental students shows interest and participate in scientific research, in spite of the lack of financial incentive, teacher support and infrastructure, which do not facilitate the conduction of studies collecting more scientific evidence...