Comparative Evaluation of Herbal Versus Non-herbal Dentifrice in Maintaining Oral Health of Young Adults.

BACKGROUND: Dental plaque may be attributed as a precursor to various oral health problems like dental caries, periodontal disease, halitosis, etc. With an ever-increasing awareness about the adverse effects of chemical formulations, emphasis is now being laid on the usage of herbal ingredients, as they are safer for long-term use in addition to their medicinal benefits. AIM: The present study aims to assess the anti-plaque and anti-inflammatory efficacy of herbal toothpaste compared to synthetic toothpaste among 20-40-year-old patients in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. METHODOLOGY: In this study, 130 subjects aged between 20 and 40 years with poor oral hygiene status and signs of gingival inflammation corresponding with chronic marginal gingivitis were selected. Subjects in Group 1 were prescribed herbal toothpaste (KUDOS Ayurveda), whereas patients in Group 2 were administered non-herbal toothpaste. Clinical parameters of gingival health specifically gingival index (GI), patient hygiene performance (PHP), and approximate plaque index (API) were recorded at baseline, 14 days, 28 days, and 42 days. Chi-square test, student-independent t-test, and paired t-test were performed to find significant differences in various variables between the two groups at different follow-up visits. RESULTS: At the end of the study, a significant reduction in GI and API scores was obtained, along with increased PHP scores. The p-value was set at 0.05, and the power of the study was set at 0.95. There was a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in GI and API and an improvement in PHP scores at various time intervals in Group 1 as compared to Group 2.  Conclusion: Regular application of herbal extract dentifrices for 42 days provided a significant reduction of dental plaque and improvement in overall gingival health without any adverse effects. This instilled motivation in the patients to uphold proper oral hygiene. Hence, herbal dentifrices could be prescribed as an adjunct to periodontal therapy in the maintenance phase.

To Evaluate the Effect of Vitamin B Complex on Wound Healing - A Clinical and Microbiological Study.

Background: The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of vitamin B complex supplementation following periodontal flap surgery on clinical and microbiological parameters. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial on 10 patients with periodontitis in split-mouth design was undertaken to find the effect of vitamin B complex supplementation with open flap debridement on periodontal wound healing. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Tannerella forsythus and Porphyromonas gingivalis was done using subgingival plaque samples at 0 and 90th day. Results: The results showed a significant reduction (P < 0.01) of clinical (plaque index, gingival index, gingival bleeding index, probing pocket depth, and relative attachment level) and microbial profile in both treatment groups, whereas on intergroup analysis, more reduction in all clinical parameters were observed in the test group, but statistically, the results were insignificant.

Short-Term Effect of Spiritual Music on Heart Rate Variability in Medical Students: A Single-Group Experimental Study.

BACKGROUND: There are ancient texts and modern studies alluding to the therapeutic benefits obtained from listening to music. Studies have shown that chanting "OM" has a relaxing effect by causing parasympathetic dominance, limbic deactivation, and decreasing the brain's dopamine levels. This research aims to study the effect of listening to OM chanting on the cardiovascular system and heart rate variability and its possible use as a stress buster among medical students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty medical undergraduates were selected for the study. After a 20-minute relaxation, a lead 2 electrocardiogram (EKG) was recorded for 10 minutes. Their blood pressure (BP) and heart rate were measured. The subjects were then made to listen to OM chanting for 20 minutes, immediately after which their BP and heart rate were measured. This was followed by another 10-minute lead 2 EKG. The EKGs recorded were then used to calculate the standard deviation in N-N interval (SDNN), total power, high-frequency power, and low-frequency power. RESULTS: The study reported a significant decrease in blood pressure and heart rate and a significant increase in SDNN and total power. There was also an insignificant increase in low frequency and an insignificant decrease in high frequency. CONCLUSION:  This study provides insight into the importance of spiritual music therapy in the maintenance of mental as well as cardiovascular health among medical students.

Effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Early Wound Healing and Levels of Inflammatory Mediators in Gingival Crevicular Fluid Following Open Flap Debridement.

Introduction Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has a beneficial effect on pain relief and wound healing. This study aims at a clinical evaluation of early wound healing and a biochemical evaluation of inflammatory mediators in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) following LLLT with an open flap debridement (OFD) in periodontal therapy. Material and methods This randomized controlled trial included 40 chronic periodontitis patients with bilateral attachment loss, pocket depths of 5 mm affecting at least two quadrants, and radiographic evidence of horizontal bone loss. 120 control sites were randomly selected to receive OFD, and contralateral 120 test sites received bio-stimulation with a diode laser (890 nm) after OFD. The wound healing index was recorded at the 1st and 2nd weeks, and clinical parameters such as the plaque index, gingival index, pocket probing depth, clinical attachment level, and GCF inflammatory mediators were evaluated at baseline, 3, and 6 months. Results From the start of the study to 6 months later, there was a statistically significant drop in plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth, and gain clinical attachment levels in both groups. However, when the two groups were compared, there were no significant differences at any time intervals. GCF inflammatory mediators tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-8) decrease, and osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels increase in both the test group and control group from baseline to 3 months and 6 months. In intergroup comparisons, there was a statistically significant reduction in the test group as compared to the control group at 6 months. There was a decline in gingival crevicular fluid - interleukin-6 (GCF IL-6) levels from baseline to 3 months and 6 months in both the groups but when analysed statistically, the results were not significant on intergroup and intragroup comparison at any time interval. The Landry Wound Healing Index values in the 1st and 2nd weeks were showing statistically significant improved healing in the test group as compared to the control group. There was significantly better wound healing at sites where a diode laser was used. Conclusion LLLT increases early wound healing after periodontal surgical procedures.

An Exploratory Research Comparing Oral Health, Pattern of Substance Abuse and Nicotine Dependence among LGBT, Female Sex Workers and Heterogenders.

AIM: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ), female sex workers (FSW), and heterogenders are those unconventional groups of the society who are identified with major unacceptance. Thus, the present study is conducted to assess and compare the oral health status, substance abuse pattern and nicotine dependence using Fagerstrom nicotine dependence scale (FNDP) among the LGBTQ, FSW, and heterogender in a defined location of Gautam Buddha Nagar, district in West U.P. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present exploratory research included three study groups, the LGBTQ, FSW, and heterogenders (HG) residing in the same habitat. Purposive snowball sampling was conducted for the accessibility of the unapproachable population in the defined geographical location at Gautam Budha Nagar, district in West Uttar Pradesh. The data collection of a total of 177 participants was done using a pre-validated, pretested proforma consisting of three different parts including WHO oral health assessment form for adults, 2013, questionnaire regarding pattern of substance abuse and FNDS. Data were recorded and statistically analyzed using SPSS. RESULTS: Prevalence of oral health disorders including dental caries, periodontal disease as well as oral mucosal lesions were more commonly found among the LGBTQ participants followed by FSW and the differences were found to be statistically significant. In context of altered habits, 100% of the participants in the present study were reported with smokeless tobacco habits whereas majority of the FSW were reported with a habit of smoking tobacco. CONCLUSION: In addition to belonging to ethnic and sexual minority, and having minimal or low education status, and low socioeconomic status, the present study groups are reported to have suboptimal access to quality healthcare and are further reported with high level of substance abuse as well as nicotine dependence. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The present study is an attempt to provide base line data for further research and provide data to the policy makers so as to increase the healthcare access to the present groups. How to cite this article: Sharma S, Shukla S, Kamate SK, et al. An Exploratory Research Comparing Oral Health, Pattern of Substance Abuse and Nicotine Dependence among LGBT, Female Sex Workers and Heterogenders. J Contemp Dent Pract 2023;24(12):991-997.

Comparative Evaluation of Ridge Width for Implant Placement Using Ridge Mapping on the Diagnostic Cast, Cone-beam Computed Tomography, and Direct Surgical Measurements.

AIM: This study was undertaken with an objective to find out the accuracy and reliability of presurgical ridge mapping (RM) on a diagnostic cast for linear measurements in the horizontal direction on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and direct surgical assessment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 25 patients based on inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. An acrylic stent with two points marked at 3 mm and 6 mm from the soft tissue summit of the alveolar ridge was fabricated. Linear measurements at these points were estimated with three techniques viz. RM on the diagnostic cast, CBCT, and direct surgical in situ measurements after flap reflection. RESULTS: Considering direct in situ surgical measurements as the gold standard with an accuracy of 100%, the accuracy for CBCT and RM on the diagnostic cast was 95.5% and 87.4%, respectively, for the maxillary arch. Whereas the accuracy for CBCT and RM on the diagnostic cast was 88.6% and 92.2%, respectively, for mandibular arch. CONCLUSION: The three approaches discussed are reliable for the assessment of ridge dimensions in the horizontal direction. Ridge mapping on the diagnostic cast is a simple, precise, noninvasive technique without any radiographic exposure. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Ridge mapping on a diagnostic cast along with two-dimensional (2D) radiography can be used as a valuable chairside diagnostic tool in the treatment planning prior to dental implant placement in the cases of a regular alveolar ridge and even mucosal lining. This clinical technique provides zero radiation exposure and is also cost-effective.

Prevalence of periodontitis and its association with smokeless tobacco (SLT) Use amongst the adult population of Greater Noida, India - A cross-sectional study.

Context: Smokeless tobacco (SLT) has been consumed in India since times immemorial. It is the need of an hour to emphasise about awareness and harmful effects of SLT in relation to periodontium. Aim: The aim of the study was to access the prevalence of periodontitis and its association with SLT amongst the adult population of Greater Noida, India. Settings and Design: Hospital-based study and cross-sectional design. Methods and Material: This cross-sectional study included 512 SLT subjects between the ages of 18 and 79 years. The study was carried out from December 2019 to January 2022. A self-designed questionnaire was used for recording demographic details, forms of SLT, frequency, duration of use, and sites of retention of SLT products. The clinical periodontal parameters such as periodontal pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) were recorded in a given point of time. Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis. Results: The prevalence of periodontitis among SLT was 81.6% with the highest occurrence of Stage III Periodontitis (35.4%). The use of SLT for ≥10 years [odds ratio (OR) = 3.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.86-6.27] showed threefold the risk for periodontitis compared to others who consumed SLT for 4-5 years. Gutkha consumers [OR = 2.56 (95% CI = 0.75-3.48)] were 2.56 times more prone to have periodontitis as compared to other forms of SLT. Conclusions: Periodontitis is positively associated with SLT use. Awareness, timely intervention, and periodic screening in the SLT users will help to prevent the progression of periodontitis.

Correlation of COVID-19 with severity of periodontitis-A clinical and biochemical study.

Background: Various conceptual hypotheses have been put forth to link association of COVID-19 with various chronic diseases such as periodontitis. Empirical evidence is still lacking to correlate the severity of COVID-19 with periodontal diseases. Objectives: This study was undertaken with an objective to correlate COVID severity in systemically healthy patients suffering from periodontal diseases. Materials and Methods: 44 systemically healthy patients of both genders with minimum of 20 teeth in their oral cavity in age range of 20 to 50 years suffering from periodontitis were recruited and categorised into four stages as per American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) 2017 classification for periodontitis. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and periodontal disease parameters of all the patients were measured. Because of COVID-19 and the nationwide lockdown, the dental practice was highly affected. With the help of self-designed online questionnaire information regarding COVID-19 infection and associated symptoms were recorded. Cases were categorized into five groups based on the World Health Organization clinical progression scale of COVID severity. Results: All the patients suffering from COVID disease in moderate and severe forms had increased probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, and raised serum C-reactive protein levels as compared to patients who were uninfected or suffering from mild COVID disease and the results were statistically significant. Conclusion: Prioritisation and Implementation of periodontal treatment as a preventive measure for COVID-19 should be done. A positive correlation is observed between the severity of periodontitis and COVID-19.

Influence of Custom Trays, Dual-Arch Passive, Flexed Trays and Viscosities of Elastomeric Impression Materials on Working Dies.

INTRODUCTION: Dual arch impression technique signifies an essential improvement in fixed prosthodontics and has numerous benefits over conventional impression techniques. The accuracy of working dies fabricated from dual arch impression technique remains in question because there is little information available in the literature. AIM: This study was conducted to compare the accuracy of working dies fabricated from impressions made from two different viscosities of impression materials using metal, plastic dual arch trays and custom made acrylic trays. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study samples were grouped into two groups based on the viscosity of impression material used i.e. Group I (monophase), whereas Group II consisted of Dual Mix technique using a combination of light and heavy body material. These were further divided into three subgroups A, B and C depending on the type of impression tray used (metal dual arch tray, plastic dual arch tray and custom made tray). Measurements of the master cast were made using profile projector. Descriptive statistics like mean, Standard Deviation (SD) were calculated for all the groups. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for multiple group comparisons. A p-value of 0.05 or less was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The gypsum dies obtained with the three types of impression trays using two groups of impression materials were smaller than the master models in dimensions. CONCLUSION: The plastic dual arch trays produced dies which were the least accurate of the three groups. There was no significant difference in the die dimensions obtained using the two viscosities of impression materials.

Effect of local drug delivery in chronic periodontitis patients: A meta-analysis.

Periodontal diseases are multi-factorial in etiology, and bacteria are one among these etiologic agents. Thus, an essential component of therapy is to eliminate or control these pathogens. This has been traditionally accomplished through mechanical means (scaling and root planing (SRP)), which is time-consuming, difficult, and, sometimes, ineffective. From about the past 30 years, locally delivered, anti-infective pharmacological agents, most recently employing sustained-release vehicles, have been introduced to achieve this goal. This systematic review is an effort to determine the efficacy of the currently available anti-infective agents, with and without concurrent SRP, in controlling chronic periodontitis. Four studies were included, which were all randomized controlled trials, incorporating a total patient population of 80, with 97 control sites and 111 test sites. A meta-analysis completed on these four studies including SRP and local sustained-release agents compared with SRP alone indicated significant adjunctive probing depth (PD) reduction for 10% Doxycycline hycylate (ATRIDOX), minocycline hydrochloride (ARESTIN), tetracycline hydrochloride (PERIODONTAL PLUS AB), and chlorhexidine gluconate (PERIOCHIP). Essentially, all studies reported substantial reductions in gingival inflammation, plaque scores, and bleeding indices, which were similar in both the control and the experimental groups. Use of antimicrobial sustained-release systems as an adjunct to SRP does not result in significant patient-centered adverse events. Local drug delivery combined with SRP appears to provide additional benefits in PD reduction compared with SRP alone.