Age Estimation of Children and Young Adults of Jharkhand Using Mineralization of Third Molars and Its Relation to Chronological Age: A Retrospective Analysis.

Background Dental age estimation plays an enormous role in the determination of an individual's identity and age in forensic and anthropological fields. The estimation of the chronological age of the individual is also important in the diagnosis, treatment planning, and treatment outcomes in the dental field. The third molar has some inimitable characteristics in terms of its size, shape, formation, and long path of eruption and usually erupts after puberty, which seems to be a reliable method of age estimation in adulthood. To establish the individual's identity, inference of age has gained considerable attention in forensics, and the aspect of dentistry has broadened nowadays. Thus the present study was conducted. Methodology The digital orthopantomograms of 720 patients who were exposed to X-rays for routine examination were assessed, and calcification of the tooth was observed. In order to ensure the blinding of the examiners, radiographs were numerically coded. Clinical stages of the tooth were categorised into erupted, pre-erupted, and missing. Statistical analysis was performed by IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with a level of significance set below 5%. Results The age of the patients whose OPGs were assessed ranged from 6 to 22 years, with a mean age of 18.93±3.129 years. Among the 720 participants, 370 (51.4%) were male and 350 (48.6%) were female. When the clinical status of the third molar among all the participants was assessed, in 148 (20.6%) subjects, third molars had erupted; in 188 (26.1%) subjects, the third molars were in the pre-erupted stage; and in 384 (53.30%), third molars were missing. When comparing the clinical status of the third molar in both arches and between genders, it was found that missing molars were common in females and the mandible arch, with statistically significant p-values. A comparison of Demirjian's stages between genders showed that the mean age to attain stage H was 21.37±0.774 years among males and 21.69±0.616 years among females. This means that the calcification of third-molar attainment occurs earlier in males compared with females. In a similar comparison between the upper and lower arches, it was found that calcification of the third molar was attained earlier in the maxillary arch compared to the mandibular arch. Conclusion It was concluded that the third molar is a versatile tooth and its path of mineralization can be used in orthodontics, pedodontics, and forensics to estimate chronological age, and chronological age significantly follows Demirjian's stages of third molar calcification. Third molar calcification occurred earlier in the maxillary arch and males, whereas several impacted molars were higher in females.

Success of Lesion Sterilization and Tissue Repair Therapy and Pulpectomy in the Management of Infected Primary Molars with Poor Prognosis.

Background and aim: To establish lesion sterilization and tissue repair (LSTR) therapy as an alternate treatment option in managing infected primary molars with poor prognosis that were indicated for extraction, thereby fulfilling the objective of retaining the primary tooth till its normal exfoliation in the dental arch. Materials and methods: A total of 84 children who met the inclusion criteria requiring extraction in 142 teeth involving primary molars were included in the study. The selected patients were allocated to two groups, that is, group I-LSTR therapy with 3Mix-MP paste and group II-pulpectomy with metapex. All the treated teeth were then clinically and radiographically evaluated after 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively, to determine the success between groups I and II. Pearson's Chi-squared test along with the z-test was used to compare the clinical and radiographic success of the two groups (p < 0.05). Results: Pain and tenderness were completely resolved within one month of follow-up in both groups. Abscesses were resolved completely at 1 month in the pulpectomy group and mobility was resolved at 6 months follow-up in both groups. Interradicular and periradicular radiolucency persisted even at 12 months of the follow-up period in both groups. The intergroup comparison revealed no statistical differences between LSTR and pulpectomy procedure and both were equally effective at all time intervals (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Both LSTR therapy with 3Mix-MP and pulpectomy with metapex showed 100% clinical success rates. Radiographically no changes were observed even at the 12-month follow-up period in both groups. LSTR therapy can be an alternative treatment option for pulpally involved primary teeth with poor prognosis and in cases where mechanical instrumentation could not be achieved due to physiologic root resorption. How to cite this article: Sefa I, Garg N, Pathivada L, et al. Success of Lesion Sterilization and Tissue Repair Therapy and Pulpectomy in the Management of Infected Primary Molars with Poor Prognosis. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(1):41-47.

Comparative Evaluation of Low-level Diode Laser and Electrosurgical Pulpotomy in Primary Molars.

Aim: Considering the advantages of the nonpharmacotherapeutic techniques over the disadvantages of the pharmacotherapeutic agents, there is a need to evaluate clinically as well as radiographically various nonpharmacotherapeutic techniques to fortify them as replacements to the traditional pulpotomy. This study was conducted to evaluate and compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of low-level diode laser (LLDL) and electrosurgical pulpotomy in primary molars. Materials and methods: Seventy primary molars were allocated to group I (n = 35) and group II (n = 35), which underwent LLDL pulpotomy and electrosurgical pulpotomy, respectively. Clinical and radiographic analysis of all the teeth in the two groups was performed at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively. Pearson's Chi-squared test was utilized to evaluate the success of both treatment procedures (p < 0.05). Results: During the 12-month follow-up period, the differences between the groups pertaining to clinical and radiographical evaluation were statistically nonsignificant, although enhanced results were seen in the laser pulpotomy group. There was no significant difference in the success rate observed between the LLDL pulpotomy and electrosurgical pulpotomy group at the end of the 12-month follow-up period. Conclusion: The two pulpotomy techniques were found to be successful enough in strengthening the concept of a potent and safe nonpharmacotherapeutic approach in the management of pulpally involved primary molars. Clinical significance: This study further establishes nonpharmacological pulpotomy techniques as a favorable alternative to traditional pulpotomy methods. How to cite this article: Roy S, Garg N, Pathivada L, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Low-level Diode Laser and Electrosurgical Pulpotomy in Primary Molars. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(4):612-618.

Association between Serum Iron, Serum Ferritin Levels, and Severe Early Childhood Caries: A Case-Control Study.

Aim: The presence of extensive dental caries leads to pain, inflammation, and discomfort and hence interferes with their nutritional intake, which includes iron deficiency anemia. This study was undertaken to determine whether any correlation exists between severe early childhood caries (S-ECC), serum iron, and serum ferritin levels in children. Materials and methods: A total of 688 children were examined in the age-group of 2-6 years, and 82 children who fulfilled the selection criteria were equally divided into group I, that is, case group (carious group n = 41) and group II, that is, control group (caries-free group n = 41), on the basis of decayed, missing, and filled primary teeth (dmft) scores. All the selected children in both groups underwent blood investigations through phlebotomy for assessment of serum iron and serum ferritin levels. Results: The mean values of variables, that is, hemoglobin (Hb), serum iron, serum ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC), are lower in the case group when compared to control group. The differences observed were statistically significant in case of dmft and UIBC values at p < 0.05 but not significant in cases of other variables like Hb, serum iron, serum ferritin, and TIBC values. Conclusion: An inverse relationship was found between S-ECC, serum iron, and serum ferritin levels, but the evidence is still inconclusive. How to cite this article: Atri Y, Garg N, Pathivada L, et al. Association between Serum Iron, Serum Ferritin Levels, and Severe Early Childhood Caries: A Case-Control Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(S-3):S288-S292.

Clinical Performance of Composite Resin Restorations of Primary Incisors with Extensive Carious Lesions Retained by Glass Fiber Post or Biological Post.

Aim: Intracanal posts enhance the resistance of the restoration to mechanical loads and masticatory forces in primary teeth with extensive carious breakdown. This study was done to investigate the clinical performance of composite resin restoration retained by either glass fiber post or biological post in the restoration of primary anterior teeth with extensive carious lesions. Materials and methods: A total of 21 children (with 82 primary anterior teeth) who met the inclusion criteria were involved in the study. The 82 primary maxillary incisors were randomly allocated into two equal groups: groups I (glass fiber post) and II (biological post). All the teeth underwent pulpectomy, followed by glass fiber post or biological post, followed by celluloid strip crown restoration. Clinical analysis of all the teeth in the two groups was performed at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months to assess the success of treatment procedures. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version "17" was used for statistical analysis. Pearson's Chi-squared test and Fisher's exact test were utilized to evaluate the success of both treatment procedures. The significance level was predetermined at p < 0.05. Results: At the end of the 12-month follow-up period, 89.4 and 84.2% of composite resin restorations of primary incisors with extensive carious lesions were retained by glass fiber and biological posts, respectively. The intergroup comparison revealed no statistically significant differences pertaining to retention loss, marginal discoloration, and marginal adaptation at all follow-up intervals (p > 0.05). Conclusion and clinical significance: Since biological posts are inexpensive and economical, they may replace the commercial post systems available to pediatric dentists. How to cite this article: Jaiswal N, Garg N, Pathivada L, et al. Clinical Performance of Composite Resin Restorations of Primary Incisors with Extensive Carious Lesions Retained by Glass Fiber Post or Biological Post. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(6):850-857.

Association between Severe Early Childhood Caries, Dietary Preferences, and 2nd Digit-4th Digit (2D:4D) Ratio.

Background and aim: To evaluate the association between severe early childhood caries (S-ECC), dietary preferences, and 2nd digit-4th digit (2D:4D) ratio. The objective is to contrast the detection and prevalence of dental caries in children with different sensitivity levels to the bitter taste of 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP) and its association with 2D:4D. Materials and methods: A total of 300 children below 71 months of age were assigned to two study groups-group I (caries-free) and group II (caries). PROP sensitivity test was carried out to determine the inherent genetic ability to taste a bitter or sweet substance. Evaluation of dietary preferences was carried out using a food preference questionnaire, which was completed by the parents of the children to know the child's dietary habits and their sweet, sour, and strong taste preferences. The length of the index (2D) and ring (4D) finger was measured with the help of digital vernier caliper to record the 2D:4D ratio. The data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis using Pearson's Chi-squared test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: The results suggested a positive association between S-ECC and dietary preferences but could not establish a straightforward 1:1 relation between 2D:4D ratio and S-ECC. Conclusion: An individual considered as nontaster by PROP test was a sweet liker with low 2D:4D ratio having high caries index. The association between 2D:4D ratio and S-ECC should further be explored by taking other influencing factors into consideration before arriving at a definitive conclusion. How to cite this article: Srivastava SK, Garg N, Pathivada L, et al. Association between Severe Early Childhood Caries, Dietary Preferences, and 2nd Digit-4th Digit (2D:4D) Ratio. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(5):740-744.

Prevalence, Pattern, and Severity of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization in 8-12-year-old Schoolchildren of Moradabad City.

Aim and objective: Recently, molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) has become more evident and one of the most common reasons for loss of teeth in children after dental caries. Being a country with a diverse ethnic population, the prevalence of MIH in different regions of India may differ. Hence, the present study was undertaken to determine the prevalence, pattern, and severity of MIH in 8-12-year-old Schoolchildren in Moradabad city. Materials and methods: This study was conducted in various schools of Moradabad city to target a sample of 2,300 children aged between 8 and 12 years. The examination was done in their respective schools by a calibrated examiner in natural daylight using European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry diagnostic criteria for MIH 2015. The results, thus obtained, were statistically analyzed using Pearson's Chi-square test. Results: A prevalence of 3.96% (91/2300) for MIH was reported without any gender predilection. Molar hypomineralization showed a prevalence of 1.3% (29/2300) whereas the prevalence for hypomineralization of second primary molars was 1.4% (22/1620). The most common type of defect was type 2 and most of the affected teeth were of grade I. Mandibular molars were more commonly affected compared to the maxillary molars. Conclusions: A prevalence of 3.96% (91/2300) was observed for MIH. Frequent dental screening camps should be organized in schools at the community level for the enhancement of early diagnosis of MIH and designing appropriate management strategies. How to cite this article: Khan A, Garg N, Mayall SS, et al. Prevalence, Pattern, and Severity of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization in 8-12-year-old Schoolchildren of Moradabad City. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(2):168-174.

Clinical Measurement of Maximum Mouth Opening in Children Aged 6-12.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical maximum mouth opening in children and its correlation with age, and sex. STUDY DESIGN: Three hundred children of age 6-12 years, from different schools of Moradabad city were included. The participants were divided into three groups based on their age i.e Group 1 (n=100) 6-8 years, Group 2 (n=100) 8-10 years and Group 3 (n=100) 10-12 yrs. Three recordings of maximum mouth opening (MMO) were obtained using digital vernier caliper and the mean of three was considered as the MMO of that child. The data was analyzed using Spearman correlation, ANOVA with post- hoc Bonferroni test. The significance level was predetermined at p≤0.05 . RESULTS: The mean MMO for children of Moradabad of aged 6-8yrs in boys is 39.87 ± 4.91 mm and in girls is 36.85± 4.09 mm. In 8-10 yeas age group, the MMO in boys is 44.5± 5.1 mm and in girls 41.77± 5.24 mm. In 10-12 year age group, the MMO in boys is 49.63± 5.56 mm and in girls is 49.33±5.32 mm respectively. The MMO was found to be higher in boys in all the three age groups. CONCLUSIONS: There was a significant difference in values of MMO in all the three age groups with boys having higher MMO values when compared to girls. Varying range of MMO values was observed within three age groups.

Immersive and Non-Immersive Virtual Reality Distraction on Pain Perception to Intraoral Injections.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of immersive VR (IVR) and non-immersive VR (NIVR) distraction on perceived pain during intraoral injections in children undergoing dental procedures. The objective was to introduce 3-dimensional nature of virtual reality during the provoking phase of dental treatment as a means of distraction in children. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 200 children were selected for the study, 100 for IVR group and 100 for NIVR group. After randomization, children were introduced to Oculus Go Standalone equipment; MCDAS (f), VAS, WBFRS and the treatment procedure using tell show do technique. Group I children were introduced to oculus go standalone headset with hand held controller to play temple run or roller coaster game while in group II, children watched cartoon movies of their choice. Pre-operative & post-operative MCDAS scores were obtained using MCDAS (f) questionnaire in local language. Post-operatively, VAS and WBFRS scores were also obtained. The data was analyzed using independent t-test and chi-square analysis. RESULTS: Pre-operatively, the mean MCDAS scores were similar in both the groups viz. Group-I (29.20 ± 3.197) and Group-II (29.09 ± 3.803) and is statistically not significant. Post-operatively, the mean MCDAS scores were higher in non-immersive group (20.72 ± 2.822) as compared to immersive group (10.99 ± 2.227). VAS score was higher in non-immersive group (2.72 ± 0.99) as compared to immersive group (0.75 ± 0.88). WBFRS scores were higher in non-immersive group (2.78 ± 1.097) as compared to immersive group (0.82 ± 1.104). CONCLUSION: Three-dimensional virtual reality was found to be an effective means of distraction in children undergoing dental procedures and especially during the provoking phase. The significant difference obtained clearly indicates irrespective of immersiveness of virtual reality, anxiety had been decreased and on comparison the pain perception to intraoral injection is less in immersive virtual reality environment. Immersive VR distraction technique can serve as an adjunct to traditional behavior management strategies already available to the pediatric dentist.

Cooling the soft tissue and its effect on perception of pain during infiltration and block anesthesia in children undergoing dental procedures: A comparative study.

Background. This study assessed the effect of cooling the soft tissue site on the perception of pain in children undergoing local anesthesia for routine dental procedures. Methods. One hundred children, 6‒14 years of age, were assigned to either of the two study groups, i.e., group 1 (infiltration) and group 2 (block anesthesia). One side of the arch served as the test side, where an ice pretreatment (IP) of the soft tissue of the injection site was carried out using a tube of ice for one minute, whereas the opposite side served as the control, where no ice pretreatment (WIP) was carried out. This was followed by the gradual injection of local anesthetic solution. The children's pain perception was assessed by VAS, WB-FPRS and SEM scales. The data were analyzed statistically. Results. WBS, VAS and SEM scores were significantly different between the WIP and IP in both groups, indicating that ice was effective in reducing the pain perception in children. Intergroup comparison revealed no significant differences (P>0.05), indicating that cooling was equally effective in infiltration and block anesthesia. Conclusion. Cooling the soft tissue site helped decrease pain perception during injection in children.

Combined Effect of Enamel Deproteinization and Intermediate Bonding in the Retention of Pit and Fissure Sealants in Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE: This manuscript shows if enamel deproteinization along with an intermediate layer of bonding enhances the retention of pit and fissure sealants.. STUDY DESIGN: Two hundred six mandibular first permanent molars were allocated to Group I (n=103) and Group II (n=103). Group I underwent deproteinization, acid etching, bonding agent application and pit & fissure sealant placement while Group II treated with acid etching followed by pit & fissure sealant application only. Clinical analysis of all the teeth in the two groups was performed at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months respectively. Pearson's chi - square test was utilized to evaluate the success of both treatment procedures (p<0.05). RESULTS: At 12 months follow up the differences between the groups pertaining to Marginal integrity, Marginal discoloration and Anatomical form were statistically significant suggesting enhanced retention in Group I. CONCLUSIONS: Enamel deproteinization along with the use of intermediate bonding layer significantly enhances the retention of pit and fissure sealants in terms of enhanced marginal integrity, decreased marginal discoloration and preserving the anatomical form.

Comparative Evaluation of Fresh Aloe barbadensis Plant Extract and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate as Pulpotomy Agents in Primary Molars: A 12-month Follow-up Study.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of fresh Aloe vera barbadensis plant extract and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) as pulpotomy agents in primary molar teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pulpotomy procedure was performed in sixty primary molar teeth which were randomly allocated to two groups, i.e., Aloe vera pulpotomy (Group A) and MTA pulpotomy (Group B). All the pulpotomized teeth were evaluated clinically and radiographically at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of time interval using predetermined criteria. RESULTS: The success rates between Groups A and B at the end of the 1st month were 24.1% and 96.4%, at the end of 3rd month were 57.1% and 100%, at the end of 6th month were 75% and 100%, at the end of 9th month were 66.6% and 100%, and at the end of 12 months were 100% and 100% respectively. The overall success rates at the end of 12-month follow-up period were 6.9% and 71.4%, respectively, after taking dropout patients into consideration, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: MTA pulpotomy was found to be superior when compared to fresh A. barbadensis plant extract pulpotomy in primary molars.

A Comparative Evaluation of the Efficacy of Different Caries Excavation Techniques in reducing the Cariogenic Flora: An in vivo Study.

BACKGROUND: Caries excavation is a noninvasive technique of caries removal with maximum preservation of healthy tooth structure. AIM: To compare the efficacy of three different caries excavation techniques in reducing the count of cariogenic flora. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty healthy primary molars were selected from 26 healthy children with occlusal carious lesions without pulpal involvement and divided into three groups in which caries excavation was done with the help of (1) carbide bur; (2) polymer bur using slow-speed handpiece; and (3) ultrasonic tip with ultrasonic machine. Samples were collected before and after caries excavation for microbiological analysis with the help of sterile sharp spoon excavator. Samples were inoculated on blood agar plate and incubated at 37°C for 48 hours. After bacterial cultivation, the bacterial count of Streptococcus mutans was obtained. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: All statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 13 statistical software version. Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance, Wilcoxon matched pairs test, and Z test were performed to reveal the statistical significance. RESULTS: The decrease in bacterial count of S. mutans before and after caries excavation was significant (p < 0.001) in all the three groups. CONCLUSION: Carbide bur showed most efficient reduction in cariogenic flora, while ultrasonic tip showed almost comparable results, while polymer bur showed least reduction in cariogenic flora after caries excavation. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Hassan AF, Yadav G, Tripathi AM, Mehrotra M, Saha S, Garg N. A Comparative Evaluation of the Efficacy of Different Caries Excavation Techniques in reducing the Cariogenic Flora: An in vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2016;9(3):214-217.

Association of Dermatoglyphic Peculiarities with Dental Caries in Preschool Children of Lucknow, India.

BACKGROUND: Dermatoglyphics refers to study of the intricate dermal ridge configurations on the skin covering the palmar and plantar surfaces of hand and feet. The basis of considering dermatoglyphic patterns as genetic marker for dental caries is that the epithelium of finger buds as well as enamel has ectodermal origin, and both develop at the same time of intrauterine life. AIM: To assess the relationship between fingerprint patterns and dental caries among preschool children of Lucknow city. STUDY DESIGN: This study was of cross-sectional design. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study group comprised 512 preschool children 2-6 years of age. The prevalence of caries was recorded using "Dentition status and treatment needs" (WHO basic oral health assessment form, 1997). They were divided into three groups as follows: Group I (dmft score = 0-2), group II (dmft score = 3-4) and group III (dmft score ≥5). The handprints of each child were taken using a stamp pad. The fingertip patterns were analyzed according to the classical method and were classified according to the topological method. The frequency of occurrence of type of dermatoglyphic pattern on fingertip of each digit was noted. STATISTICS: Chi-square test was used to test the significant difference in proportions. Means were compared using Student's t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) or F-test. RESULTS: Subjects belonging to groups II and III showed maximum occurrence of whorl pattern on all digits. Group I subjects had maximum occurrence of arch pattern. All the variables had statistically significant value, with a degree of divergence of specific dermatoglyphic patterns among all three groups. CONCLUSION: The dental caries susceptibility of an individual increased with incidence of whorl pattern and it decreased with incidence of arch pattern. How to cite this article: Singh E, Saha S, Jagannath GV, Singh S, Saha S, Garg N. Association of Dermatoglyphic Peculiarities with Dental Caries in Preschool Children of Lucknow, India. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2016;9(1):39-44.

A Comparative Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Three Different Irrigating Solution on Microorganisms in the Root Canal: An Invivo Study.

INTRODUCTION: An infected root canal system either due to caries exposure or trauma cannot be eliminated by the host defense mechanisms alone or in combination with systemic antibiotic therapy. It can be treated through professional endodontic intervention using both chemical and mechanical procedures. AIM: To suggest triple antibiotic solution containing tetracycline, ornidazole and ciprofloxacin as a new endodontic irrigant that may possess superior antibacterial activity in comparison with chlorhexidine solution. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was carried out on 60 teeth from 40 children with anterior tooth fracture, asymptomatic, non-vital and necrotic in nature. Patients were randomly divided into three groups of 20 teeth each depending upon the type of irrigant. After access opening microbial samples were obtained: a) Pre- irrigation i.e. sample after pulp extirpation and before irrigation, b) Post-irrigation i.e. sample after irrigation, stored in sterile containers and immediately transferred to microbiological laboratory. After incubation of samples aerobically at 37(0)C for 24 hours, the samples were streaked on blood agar culture media and incubated for 48 hours. After 48 hours, the colony forming units were counted using a colony counter. Statistical analysis was carried out using Kruskal-Wallis test, Wilcoxson signed rank test and Mann-Whitney test. RESULTS: On intra group comparison, highly significant differences in the colony forming units were found between pre-irrigation and post-irrigation sample for all the three groups. On inter group comparison, statistical difference was found between saline and chlorhexidine (p ≤ 0.001), saline and triple antibiotic paste (p< 0.001). The greatest percentage decrease was obtained in samples treated with Chlorhexidine solution (Group 2) i.e.73.91. The triple antibiotic irrigating solution group showed percentage decrease of 66.22 followed by Group 1 (Saline) 15.04. The difference found amongst the groups was statistically insignificant. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that triple antibiotic irrigating solution can be used as an irrigating solution. The antibacterial action of triple antibiotic irrigating solution is comparable with chlorhexidine. Although saline may not be effective in the antimicrobial action but its flushing action may be able to decrease some microbial load.

A Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy of Different Obturation Techniques used in Root Canal Treatment of Anterior Teeth: An in vitro Study.

AIM: This study was undertaken to evaluate the percentage of gutta-percha-filled area (PGFA) using microscopic analysis of the cross-sections in the apical third of root canals when filled either with Thermafil technique, Warm Vertical Condensation technique and Cold Lateral Condensation technique without using sealers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty single rooted extracted per-manent teeth were collected. After crown amputation, the teeth were randomly divided into three experimental groups of 20 specimens each. Group I-Thermafil obturation technique, group II-warm vertical condensation obturation technique and group III-cold lateral condensation obturation technique. Obturation was performed by specific techniques without using sealers. After obturation, the teeth were cross-sectioned horizontally at 2 to 3 mm from apex with the help of double sided diamond disk. Sections were digitally photographed and measured under Stereomicroscope at magnification of 50×. Using a KS 100 imaging system the area of canals and the gutta-percha was recorded, also the percentage of gutta-percha filled area (PGFA) was calculated. The observations thus ob-tained were subjected to statistical analysis using ANOVA and student 't' test. RESULTS: Maximum group difference was observed between groups I and III (3.558 ± 0.138) while minimum difference was observed between groups I and II (1.223 ± 0.137). Thus, all the between group differences were statistically significant. CONCLUSION: This study supports the belief that the Thermafil Obturation technique produces significantly higher percentage of gutta-percha filled area (PGFA) than the warm vertical condensation technique or cold lateral condensation technique. How to cite this article: Samadi F, Jaiswal JN, Saha S, Garg N, Chowdhary S, Samadi F, Tripathi VP. A Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy of Different Obturation Techniques used in Root Canal Treatment of Anterior Teeth: An in vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2014;7(1):1-5.

Is there an Association between Oral Health Status and School Performance? A Preliminary Study.

The present cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the impact of poor oral health status on school performance of 600 primary and nursery school children of Bengaluru city, India. The data were collected using the methods and standards recommended by the WHO for oral health surveys. Oral health status was assessed using the df-t index (number of decayed and filled teeth). Academic performance was assessed based on the marks obtained. The children were divided into three groups: Excellent, average, below average (as given by the school teachers). Comparison between categorical variables was performed using one-way ANOVA using the SPSS software package (version 12.0). The mean df-t of the excellent group was 1.56 ± 2.5, for average group it was 2.05 ± 2.8 and for the below average group it was 4.47 ± 2.7. The below average group showed high caries index compared to other groups. The relation between school performance and mean df-t was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.001). The findings of this study demonstrate the impact that poor oral health has, on lowering school performance in children. It can be safely concluded that improvement of children's oral health may be a vehicle to improve their educational experience. How to cite this article: Garg N, Anandakrishna L, Chandra P. Is there an Association between Oral Health Status and School Performance? A Preliminary Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2012; 5(2):132-135.

Essentiality of early diagnosis of molar incisor hypomineralization in children and review of its clinical presentation, etiology and management.

Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a common developmental condition resulting in enamel defects in first permanent molars and permanent incisors. It presents at eruption of these teeth. One to four molars, and often also the incisors, could be affected. Since first recognized, the condition has been puzzling and interpreted as a distinct phenomenon unlike other enamel disturbances. Early diagnosis is essential since, rapid breakdown of tooth structure may occur, giving rise to acute symptoms and complicated treatment. The purpose of this article is to review MIH and illustrate its diagnosis and clinical management in young children. How to cite this article: Garg N, Jain AK, Saha S, Singh J. Essentiality of Early Diagnosis of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization in Children and Review of its Clinical Presentation, Etiology and Management. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2012;5(3):190-196.