Dental Services and their Awareness and Utilization among the Health Care Workers in a South Indian District - A Cross Sectional Study.

Aim: The present research was carried out to evaluate the amount of usage of dental care opportunities and also to assess the problems faced by health care workers (HCWs) of a south Indian district in using dental services. Methodology: This study had around 500 participants who belonged from various health care sectors who were selected with the help of multistage sampling. The data obtained from this cross-sectional research was analysed statistically using SPSS 22.0. Results: It was noticed that around 35% of participants went for a dentist's appointment in past 1 year where male members predominated (45%). One of the commonest reasons for utilizing dental care services was pain as an dental emergency factor (70%). Other reasons were dental caries (18%) restoration, breakage of tooth (10%) and a host of other factors (11%). Around 350 participants felt that going to the dentist was only necessary when there was an emergency (61%). Conclusion: The target population less frequently visited the dentist to maintain their teeth as they believed when you have pain, that is the time you go to a dental specialist.

Efficacy of Various Herbal Preparations Against Oral Candida: A Lab-Based Study.

Aim: This research was done to analyze the effectiveness related to herbal chemicals in tackling candidiasis. Materials and Methods: Grounded and ethanol-extracted residues of plants like Avicennia marina, Fagonia indica, Portulaca oleracea, Lawsania inermis, Ziziphus spina, Asphodelus tenuifolius, and Salvadora persica were used in the study. The extract was used against candida species, after which the antibacterial as well as cytotoxicity toward the former were evaluated. Results: L. inermis and P. oleracea with minimal inhibitory concentration of approx. 10 cenmL had an increased activity against candida species. The preparations of these plants acted against Candida albicans during its stages related to pathogenesis during biofilm production. Superadded infections like in case of bacterial infections along with candida can be difficult to cure. On human RBCs, these plant preparations had no toxicity at their minimum inhibitory concentration level. Conclusion: We concluded that, as far as being anti-candida and acting against MDR bacterial infections, preparations of plants were effective as an alternative to allopathic drugs.

Effectiveness of a Single Chair Side Application of NovaMin® [Calcium Sodium Phosphosilicate] in the Treatment of Dentine Hypersensitivity following Ultrasonic Scaling-A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Dentinal hypersensitivity or cervical dentinal sensitivity is one of the commonest clinical problems. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of a single chair side application of 100% pure calcium sodium phosphosilicate (NovaMin®) in reducing dentin hypersensitivity following ultrasonic scaling as evaluated on a visual analogue scale (VAS). The study included 50 subjects who were selected based on an evaluation of dentinal hypersensitivity on a VAS carried out using a metered air blast from a three-way syringe and divided into two groups (n = 25/group); i.e., the test group (Group A) received the NovaMin® paste and the control group (Group B) received a placebo paste made from pumice. All the 50 subjects included in the study were had VAS scores of 3 or more. The NovaMin® powder mixed with distilled water was applied. Dentinal hypersensitivity was reassessed immediately and after 1, 2 and 4 weeks after the procedure. Results showed that the percentage reduction of dentinal hypersensitivity following a single application of NovaMin® in powder form was about 76.38% immediately, 67.72% one week postoperatively, 52.76% two weeks postoperatively and 26.78% four weeks postoperatively. It can be concluded from the results of the current clinical study demonstrated that a single chair side application of NovaMin® in powder form has a significant and immediate reduction in dentinal hypersensitivity, which lasted nearly for four weeks.

Clinical Trial to Assess Physiology and Activity of Masticatory Muscles of Complete Denture Wearer Following Vitamin D Intervention.

Background and Objectives: Little information is available on the role of Vitamin D as a micro-nutrient deficiency with masticatory muscle efficiency and its effect on the function of removable prosthesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of vitamin D on masticatory muscle activity among completely edentulous patients and its effect on the retention of removable complete dentures (RCDs). Materials and Methods: A non-randomized clinical control trial was conducted on completely edentulous patients (60.53 ± 7.01 years) in the Indian population between 2017 and 2019. Subjects were evaluated for temporomandibular disorders according to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD). Serum Vitamin D (S Vit D) levels, Ultrasonography (USG), and surface Electromyography (sEMG) readings of the masseter muscle were recorded at enrolment (Level 0), after 3 months of Vitamin D therapy (Level 3), and after consecutive 3 months of maintenance therapy, i.e., after 6 months from baseline (Level 6). The fabrication of new RCDs was done for all after the enrolment, and the retention of RCDs was assessed by asking a question regarding denture retention and asking respondents to mark their satisfaction on a 5-point Likert scale. Data were analysed using ANOVA, Paired'-test and Pearson correlation coefficients. A p-value less than 0.05 indicated a statistically significant association. Results: Between enrolment and a six-month follow-up, S Vit D levels showed an increase from 16.03 ± 5.68 ng/mL to 31.35 ± 9.28 ng/mL, showing an increase of 15.32 ± 9.38 ng/mL (95.57% rise). Statistically significant values were observed for USG and sEMG. Conclusions: Results showed that S Vit D affects masticatory muscle activity by improving its thickness and boosting its tonicity. Healthy muscles assist in the retention of RCDs, consequently aiding in mastication, speech, and phonetics, hence improving patient satisfaction. Clinical implication: Acknowledging the fact that the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency is worldwide. We suggest Vitamin D therapy as a nutritional intervention among the elderly completely edentulous population, following dietary counselling, and consider Vitamin D therapy to be an adjunct to nutritional counselling for improving masticatory muscle activity and efficiency, which aids in RCD retention and stability. Consequently, improving oral health-related quality of life for individuals.

Fracture toughness of 3D printed denture teeth.

BACKGROUND: Advances in digital dentistry lead to use of three-dimensional (3D) printed resin denture teeth. Fracture toughness of these teeth must be assessed. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the chipping and indirect tensile fracture resistance of denture teeth fabricated by 3D printing technique with traditionally fabricated resin denture teeth. METHOD: Four groups (Gr) were made (n= 50/group): Gr-1 3D printed denture teeth (denture teeth; Formlabs Inc., Somerville, MA, USA), Gr-2 SR-Orthosit-PE (Ivoclar Vivadent AG), Gr-3 Portrait IPN (Dentsply Sirona), Gr-4 Pala Premium 8 (Heraeus Kulzer GmbH). Stereolithography 3D printing was used to create the methacrylate-based photopolymerized resin teeth models and remaining group teeth were collected commercially. A 1 mm/min chipping and indirect tensile fracture speed tests were carried out till fracture occurred. The data so obtained were statistically analysed using one-way analysis of variance with Tukey's honestly significant difference multiple comparisons test (p< 0.05). At the end of the test, the fractured areas of the specimens were evaluated by the chief researcher to assess the fracture pattern of the teeth. RESULTS: The indirect tensile fracture values of the 3D printed teeth were more than that of Pala Premium-8 and SR-Orthosit-PE but it was lower than that of Portrait IPN teeth. In chipping test, buccal chipping of the loaded cusp was seen in 3D printed resin without distortion and in indirect tensile test in 3D printed resin teeth, line of fracture emerges near the loading point propagates from the inner incline of both cusps and extends cervically, unlike in other groups where first deformation occurs then fracture. CONCLUSION: Prosthetic teeth fabricated by the 3D printing technique using printable resin material provide adequate fracture resistance as denture teeth.

Effect of Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin with a Nano-Hydroxyapatite Bone Graft on the Treatment of a Grade II Furcation Defect.

Background: Periodontal diseases lead to bone loss, crestal defects and even loss of the tooth, which also further makes it difficult to replace the tooth. Autogenous bone grafts are considered the gold standard in bone regenerative procedures. This study aimed to compare and evaluate the bone regenerative effects of i-PRF (Injectable- Platelet-rich fibrin) with a bone graft and a bone graft alone in mandibular grade II furcation defects over a period of 9 months. Method: This was a comparative study of 12 participants, who were randomly selected and grouped into two groups: test and control. Following phase I therapy, both groups were subjected to open flap debridement. In the test group, after debridement, a nano-hydroxyapatite bone graft mixed with i-PRF was inserted, whereas in the control group only a nano-hydroxyapatite bone graft was inserted. The clinical parameters such as plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), pocket probing depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), horizontal probing depth (HPD) and vertical probing depth (VPD) were recorded at baseline, 3 months, 6 months and 9 months following the surgery. The bone area fill (BAF) was assessed using intraoral periapical radiographs (IOPARs) taken at baseline and 9 months after surgery. Results: At the baseline, there was no statistically significant difference between the tested parameters. After 9 months all the clinical parameters, PI, GI, PPD, CAL, HPD and VPD as well as radiographic bone fill showed a significant increase in both the groups (p < 0.05) (PI-TGr; CGr−VPD­3.5 ± 0.54 to 0.66 ± 0.51; 3.3 ± 0.81 to 2 ± 0.63/BAF­2.9 ± 0.88 to 5.6 ± 1.10; 3.4 ± 1.39 to 3.9 ± 1.4). On comparison the test group showed better results for each clinical parameter. Conclusion: The results showed increased improvement in clinical conditions in both groups, although better results were seen in the group where i-PRF with a nano-HA bone graft was used in the furcation defect.

Rehabilitation of Nose following Chemical Burn Using CAD/CAM Made Substructure for Implant Retained Nasal Prosthesis: A Clinical Report.

Insufficient knowledge of medical chemicals and their improper use have destructive effects. Accidental exposure to chemicals on facial tissue may result in large facial defect. For ages the tradition of piercing nose is common but improper use of unknown chemical for piercing has deleterious effect. Mostly rhinectomy defects are acquired caused by trauma or malignant diseases. Prosthetic rehabilitation is the preferred treatment of choice for any large rhinectomy defects as medical and surgical interventions are ineffective in developing esthetics. Main concern with the prosthesis for such defects is retention. This article describes rehabilitation of a patient with large size nasal defect created by chemical burn in childhood during piercing. Implant retained customized silicone nasal prosthesis was fabricated using simple O-ring attachments and innovative modified polyamide acrylic resin substructure acting as skeleton.

Stress Distribution under Commercial Denture Liners- A Finite Element and Clinical Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Previous studies have shown that 20-30% of denture users have been dissatisfied with their dentures. AIM: To evaluate the stress pattern under elastic and viscoelastic denture liners using 3-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and its clinical correlation using a questionnaire. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study had both in-vitro and in-vivo phases. In in-vitro phase fabrication of a virtual parametric model of edentulous maxilla and dentures with overlying mucosa was made. A virtual load of 166N was analyzed at three points (Point A=anterior ridge, Point B=right posterior ridge and Point C=left posterior ridge). For the in-vivo phase, 20 edentulous patients were provided conventional complete dentures (Group-I). The dentures were lined with silicone (elastic) liners (Group-II) and acrylic resins (viscoelastic) liners (Group-III) at regular (2 months) intervals. After each reline, the patients were evaluated using food eating ability and denture assessment questionnaires. The results were statistically analyzed. The statistical analysis was done using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 15.0 statistical analysis software. Other than standard statistical test Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Post-Hoc tests (Tukey-HSD) were used. RESULTS: At loading, the in-vitro result for Groups-II and III revealed pressures of 0.074231N and 0.0678364N at Point A, 0.098764N and 0.093642N at Point B, and 0.099876N and 0.093746N at Point C respectively. The in-vivo study revealed that the mean quality of life score for different groups ranged from 23.65±4.00 (Group I) to 33.10±6.15 (Group III). The mean quality of life score for Group II was 29.50±5.08. CONCLUSION: The viscoelastic liner provided the most uniform stress distribution and performed better than an elastic liner with hard, firm and soft foods.

Plexiform unicystic ameloblastoma: a case report and data analysis in the Indian population.

Unicystic ameloblastoma (UA) among the different types of ameloblastomas is least encountered. The reason for lack of perception is paucity of case reports published in the literature. The UA, first described by Robinson and Martinez in 1977, is relatively a rare type of ameloblastoma accounting for about 10-15 % of all ameloblastomas. The term, plexiform UA, refers to a pattern of one or more nodules of ameloblasts like cells projecting from the cystic lining into the lumen of the cyst. Here we present a case of swelling in the anterior mandible of a 25 year old male which on histological examination revealed plexiform UA, which was later treated by complete surgical excision. A tabular data analysis of the previous UAs occurring in the Indian population according to the cases reported by Pubmed has also been included.

Comparative evaluation of honey, chlorhexidine gluconate (0.2%) and combination of xylitol and chlorhexidine mouthwash (0.2%) on the clinical level of dental plaque: A 30 days randomized control trial.

AIM: To compare the effect of honey, chlorhexidine mouthwash and combination of xylitol chewing gum and chlorhexidine mouthwash on the dental plaque level. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety healthy dental students, both male and female, aged between 21 to 25 years participated in the study. The subjects were randomly divided into three groups, i.e. the honey group, the chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash group and the combination of xylitol chewing gum and chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash group. The data was collected at the baseline, 15(th) day and 30(th) day; the plaque was disclosed using disclosing solution and their scores were recorded at six sites per tooth using the Quigley and Hein plaque index modified by Turesky-Gilmore-Glickman. Statistical analysis was carried out later to compare the effect of all the three groups. P ≤ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. RESULTS: Our result showed that all the three groups were effective in reducing the plaque but post-hoc LSD (Least Significant Difference) showed that honey group and chlorhexidine + xylitol group were more effective than chlorhexidine group alone. The results demonstrated a significant reduction of plaque indices in honey group and chlorhexidine + xylitol group over a period of 15 and 30 days as compared to chlorhexidine.

Acupuncture ( zhen jiǔ) - an emerging adjunct in routine oral care.

Acupuncture ( Zhen Jiǔ) ('acus' (needle) + 'punctura' (to puncture)) is the stimulation of specific points along the skin of the body involving various methods such as penetration by thin needles or the application of heat, pressure, or laser light. Acupuncture ( Zhen Jiǔ) aims to treat a range of medical and dental ailments, though is most commonly used for pain relief. This article reviews about the various possible roles of acupuncture ( Zhen Jiǔ) in clinical dental practice. Acupuncture ( Zhen Jiǔ) has potential in supplementing conventional treatment procedures by its diverse applicability outreach. Role of acupuncture ( Zhen Jiǔ) in dental practice has been well supported by clinical trials. Its role in alleviating facial pain, pre-operative and post-operative dental pain has led to its widespread application. Its role as sole analgesic for treatment procedure has to be tested. It's It is a thought that acupuncture ( Zhen Jiǔ) may prove an indispensible supplement to conventional treatment modalities and more of clinical trials and studies are required to prove the efficacy. Acupuncture ( Zhen Jiǔ) is not a miracle cure and is not going to replace the drill. However, the technique can be a supplement to conventional treatments in TMDs, facial pain, pain management Sjoegrens syndrome, and in phobias and anxiety. The application and use of Acupuncture ( Zhen Jiǔ) comes with some side effects. Proper training needs to be obtained before commencement of any procedure related to acupuncture ( Zhen Jiǔ). Various training programs are offered to train clinical practitioners the apt method to use acupuncture ( Zhen Jiǔ).

Comparative Evaluation of the Complementary and Alternative Medicine Therapy and Conventional Therapy Use for Musculoskeletal Disorders Management and Its Association with Job Satisfaction among Dentists of West India.

Musculoskeletal problems have become a significant issue in the profession of dentistry. There are currently no recommended effective disease-preventing and modifying remedies. High prevalence rates for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dentists have been reported in the literature. Complementary and alternative medicine can be helpful in managing and preventing the MSDs. The purpose of this study was to determine if dentists in the western part of India are using complementary and alternative medicine therapies for MSDs, and also to find if those who use complementary and alternative medicine therapies have greater job/career satisfaction compared to conventional therapy (CT) users. Dentists of western India registered under the Dental Council of India (N = 2166) were recruited for the study. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses and logistic regression. A response rate of 73% (n = 1581) was obtained, of which 79% (n = 1249) was suffering from MSDs. The use of complementary and alternative medicine or CT was reported by 90% (n = 1124) of dentists with MSDs. Dentists using complementary and alternative medicine reported greater health (P < 0.001) and carrier satisfaction (P < 0.001) and were able to work as many hours they wanted (P < 0.001) compared to CT users. Complementary and alternative medicine therapies may improve the quality of life and enhance job satisfaction for a dentist who suffers from MSDs.

Tobacco abuse amongst the school going students of 15 to 18 years of Almora district, Uttarakhand: a cross sectional study.

PURPOSE: The present study was done to assess the prevalence of tobacco abuse among school going students of the age group 15 to 18 year old in the rural areas of Almora district, Uttrakhand state, India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Schools were grouped into 4 zones north, south and east, west based on their location in district, respectively. Second stage one private and one government school was randomly selected from each zone of rural Almora. All students belonging to age 15 to 18 year were selected from the selected schools. Data was collected by a pretested, closed ended questionnaire. RESULTS: Overall, the prevalence of tobacco consumption among the adolescents was 45.42%. 63% male and 47.1% female adolescents were habituated to it. All female and majority of the male adolescents predominantly consumed a smokeless form of tobacco. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of tobacco consumption indicates a downward shift in the age for the uptake of tobacco habit by adolescents and a rising prevalence among girls. Our findings suggest that tobacco use prevention and control measures are warranted and should be started very early preferably at primary education level.