Burden of oral diseases predicts development of excess weight in early adolescence: a 2-year longitudinal study.

Dental caries, gingivitis, and excess weight are highly prevalent, interconnected chronic conditions. The association of oral health with the development of adiposity among children is sparsely addressed. We examined the association of oral health to the development of excess weight and central obesity in early adolescence during a 2-year follow-up period. This prospective study was conducted with 2702 children aged 9-12 years at baseline from the Finnish Health in Teens study. Their weight development was followed up for 2 years. Body mass index with age- and sex-specific cut-offs and the waist-height ratio indicated weight status and central obesity. Oral health data (caries experience and gingivitis/calculus) were collected from outpatient records of public dental services. Having both caries experience and gingivitis/calculus was considered burden of oral diseases. Of the sample, 74% were caries-free but 70% exhibited gingivitis and/or calculus, and 20% had both caries experience and gingivitis/calculus. During the follow-up period, 5.3% (n = 124) and 4.7% (n = 118) of the children became overweight/obese or centrally obese, respectively. Having both caries experience and gingivitis/calculus associated with the development of excess weight in a fully adjusted model (HR 1.75, 95% CI 1.03-2.97) but not of central obesity. Caries experience or gingivitis/calculus alone did not associate with adiposity development. CONCLUSION: Having burden of oral diseases without excess weight at early adolescence could imply future weight gain; thus, normal-weight individuals with both caries experience and gingivitis/calculus could be targeted with preventive measures. Our findings warrant further research to explore whether oral diseases and the development of obesity merely share risk factors or if their relationship is of causal nature. WHAT IS KNOWN: • Association of excess weight with caries experience and gingivitis is known to exist both cross-sectionally and longitudinally in children and adolescents. WHAT IS NEW: • Burden of oral diseases, that is, having both caries experience and gingivitis/calculus, was associated with becoming overweight or obese 2 years later during early adolescence. • Normal-weight individuals with burden of oral diseases at early adolescence could be targeted with preventive measures against excess weight gain.

YouTube™ Videos as a Source of Information on Necrotizing Gingivitis: A Content-Quality Analysis.

Background This study aims to evaluate the quality, reliability, and content of the information provided in YouTube™ videos on necrotizing gingivitis (NG), demonstrate the effectiveness of the videos for patients, and help dentists use this platform as a resource to properly guide their patients. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted by two experienced periodontologists. They began the study by searching for YouTube™ videos using the keywords "necrotizing gingivitis" and "trench mouth." Descriptive parameters such as the source of upload, country of origin, duration, upload date, number of likes, dislikes, views, and comments were evaluated. After this initial evaluation, the viewing rate and interaction index were calculated. Videos were categorized into high content (HC) and low content (LC) based on a 7-point scale. The quality of video content was assessed using the Global Quality Scale (GQS) and the Video Information and Quality Index (VIQI). The data were analyzed using various statistical tests, with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results Initially, 148 videos were screened, and 50 videos on NG that met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Out of the 50 videos, 28 (56%) were uploaded by healthcare professionals. Overall, 68% of videos (n=34) were classified as HC and 32% (n=16) as LC. The most common topic was clinical symptoms and signs of NG, with 86% (n=43), while NG prevention was the least common topic, with 26% (n=13). Statistically significant differences were found between video duration, time since upload, and VIQI scores according to TCS scores (p<0.05). Video duration and VIQI scores were higher for HC videos compared to LC videos. The time since upload for LC videos was higher than for HC videos. Positive correlations were observed between TCS scores, video duration, and VIQI, as well as between GQS scores, video duration, viewing rate, and VIQI. Conclusions The majority of NG videos on YouTube™ are useful and comprehensive, but their number is insufficient. Poor-quality and inadequate videos may mislead practitioners and patients. However, this also presents an opportunity for healthcare professionals to leverage YouTube™ as an educational tool. Periodontologists should upload more comprehensive videos and play a more active role in providing high-quality information.

Nesfatin-1 attenuated lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response and senescence in human dental pulp cells.

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-triggered damage in human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) is associated with the progression of gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gingival tissue. Nesfatin-1 is a peptide secreted by neurons and peripheral tissues. Here, we report a novel property of Nesfatin-1 in ameliorating LPS-induced inflammatory response and senescence in hDPCs. First, we demonstrate that Nesfatin-1 repressed LPS-triggered expression of inflammatory factors. Secondly, Nesfatin-1 restored telomerase activity and the expression of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) and telomeric repeat binding factor 2 (TERF2) against LPS. Senescence-associated ß-galactosidase (SA-ß-gal) staining assay revealed that Nesfatin-1 attenuated LPS-induced cellular senescence in hDPCs. We also found that Nesfatin-1 increased telomerase activity in LPS-challenged hDPCs. It is also shown that Nesfatin-1 reduced the expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and p16. Additionally, LPS stimulation reduced the expression of SIRT1, which was rescued by Nesfatin-1. However, the silencing of sirtuin1 (SIRT1) abrogated the protective property of Nesfatin-1 in preventing cellular senescence, implying that the function of Nesfatin-1 is regulated by SIRT1. Taken together, our findings suggest that Nesfatin-1 might possess a protective effect against gingivitis.

Brazilin cream from Caesalpinia sappan inhibit periodontal disease: in vivo study.

Background: Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that is the initial cause of the development of periodontal disease by the activity of Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-κB), Interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), p38, and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α). Unaddressed chronic inflammation can lead to persistent disturbances in other parts of the body. Brazilin is a naturally occurring plant chemical that may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Treatment based on the natural plant compound, brazilin, is developed in the form of a topical cream for easy application. Objective: The aim is to develop the natural compound brazilin in the form of a topical cream as an anti-inflammatory agent to reduce NF-κB expression through Imunohistochemistry (IHC) methods, and the expression of pro-inflammatory genes IL-1ß, IL-6, p38, and TNF-α. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were induced with gingivitis using P. gingivalis bacteria. The observed groups included rats treated with a single application of brazilin cream and rats treated with two applications of brazilin cream. The treatment was administered for 15 days. On days 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15, anatomical wound observations and wound histology using hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's Trichrome staining were performed. NF-κB protein expression was analyzed using the IHC method. Gingival inflammation gene expression of NF-κB, IL-1ß, IL-6, p38, and TNF-α was measured using q-RTPCR. Results: Single and double applications of brazilin cream increased angiogenesis and decreased NF-κB protein expression, in addition to the IL-1ß, IL-6, p38, and TNF-α gene expressions. Conclusion: In a rat gingivitis model, Brazilin cream may function as an anti-inflammatory agent in the gingival tissue.

Oral health and related outcomes in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis: a scoping review.

PURPOSE: Good oral health is important for children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF). The purpose of this scoping review is to describe the existing evidence base regarding oral health in children and adolescents with CF and provide recommendations for future research. METHODS: Using a scoping review framework, a comprehensive search was undertaken using medline, embase, and PubMed. The search strategy included broad terms relating to CF, oral health, and children and adolescents and included only papers written in English. RESULTS: 61 articles were included. Topics investigated included dental caries, enamel defects, periodontal health, dental staining, oral health related quality of life, dental management, and dental development of children and adolescents with CF. CONCLUSION: Dental outcomes of children and adolescents with CF differ from the healthy population. The current literature describing dental health in children and adolescents with CF includes predominately descriptive analyses. A shift to hypothesis-based studies to explore causal relationships that explain the differences in dental outcomes seen in the CF population offers an opportunity to better understand the problems faced by children and adolescents with CF. Research that actively engages stakeholders, including children and adolescents with CF and their families will enable evidence-based recommendations to improve their oral health.

Supragingival microbiota, cytokines, and proteins in individuals with different trajectories in experimental gingivitis.

Background: Gingivitis in response to biofilm formation may exhibit different trajectories. The purposes of the present study were to characterize the composition of the supragingival microbiota and salivary cytokine and protein levels in healthy individuals with different gingivitis patterns, to test the hypothesis that manifestations of gingivitis associate with specific profiles in terms of supragingival microbiota, salivary cytokines, and proteins. Methods: Forty orally and systemically healthy individuals refrained from all oral hygiene procedures for a period of 14 days, followed by a resolution period of 14 days with regular oral care. Supragingival plaque level and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded, and supragingival plaque as well as saliva samples were collected at baseline, day 14, and day 28. Based on change in BOP% from baseline to day 14, rapid (n = 15), moderate (n = 10), and slow (n = 15) responders were identified. Supragingival microbiota composition, salivary cytokine, and protein levels were compared between groups at baseline, day 14, and day 28. Results: A significantly higher baseline abundance of Capnocytophaga, Eikenella, and Campylobacter species were recorded in rapid responders, whereas a significantly higher baseline abundance of Streptococcus species were detected in slow responders. Slow responders expressed a high degree of resilience, with minimal difference in microbial composition at baseline and after 14 days of resolution (day 28). On the contrary, significant differences in relative abundance of members of the core microbiota, Streptococcus, Actinomyces, and Rothia species, was noted in baseline samples versus day 28 samples in rapid responders. Comparable baseline cytokine and protein levels were recorded in all groups. Conclusion: Supragingival microbiota composition, but not saliva cytokine and protein profiles, seems to influence the extent of the inflammatory response during development of gingivitis in systemically healthy individuals.

Baseline composition of the supragingival microbiota might predict different gingivitis trajectories.Microbial resilience after gingivitis might augment oral homeostasis in individuals with a slow gingivitis trajectory.

Effect of scaling on levels of interleukin 1-beta and clinical periodontal parameters among e-cigarette users and non-smokers: A prospective study.

INTRODUCTION: This cohort study aimed to compare the effect of ultrasonic scaling on the expression of IL-1ß in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) among ENDS users and non-smokers (NS) with gingivitis. METHODS: Self-reported current electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) users and NS with generalized gingivitis were included in this study. All the patients underwent scaling at the baseline visit (T0). Clinical measures, periodontal parameters [probing depth (PD), plaque index (PI), and bleeding on probing (BOP)], and GCF IL-1ß were measured at T0, after 1 week (T1) and after 3 weeks (T2). Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to assess the changes in the periodontal measurements and IL-1ß levels at different time points and Mann-Whitney U Test was used to compare the two groups. RESULTS: A total of 38 individuals (18 NS and 20 ENDS users) participated in the study. The PD was significantly higher in ENDS users than in NS at baseline. However, the PI and BOP were similar in all groups at baseline. At T1, the PI was significantly lower for NS than for ENDS users (p=0.045). At T2, there were no significant differences in any of the parameters assessed between the two groups. For ENDS users, BOP was significantly lower at T1 than at baseline. For NS, the BOP at T1 and T2 and the PI at T1 were significantly lower than at baseline. There was no difference in the GCF IL-1ß levels in NS and ENDS users at baseline, T1, and T2. At T2, there was a significant reduction in IL-1ß (p<0.05) than at baseline in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Both ENDS users and NS with gingivitis responded similarly to scaling. GCF IL-1ß levels were significantly higher at baseline (p<0.05) compared with their levels at T1 and T2 for both the groups. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered on the official website of ClinicalTrials.gov. IDENTIFIER: ID NCT05745324.

Inflammatory profile of patients with different weight diagnoses and similar periodontal condition: A systematic review.

Background: This study aimed to systematically review the literature regarding the inflammatory profiles, measured by cytokines and chemokines, of individuals with different diagnoses of weight, but with the similar periodontal condition. Materials and Methods: Searches were performed in five databases (Scopus, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane-Central). Studies that compared the inflammatory profile of normal-weight individuals to those with obesity and evaluated the same cytokine, collection method, and periodontal diagnosis (periodontal health, gingivitis, or periodontitis) were included. Cross-sectional studies underwent evaluation by independent researchers using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist. The GRADE (Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system assessed evidence certainty. Results: Twelve studies were included. The diagnosis of obesity was done on the basis of body mass index, waist circumference, and waist-hip ratio. Pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6 [IL-6], tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF]-α, IL-1ß, IL-31, and IL-34) were analyzed in serum, saliva, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), and plasma. Periodontal diagnoses varied across studies. TNF-α expression was significantly higher in individuals with obesity and periodontal health or periodontitis. Serum IL-1ß levels showed mixed results, but salivary IL-1ß levels were elevated in obese individuals. IL-6 levels were higher in obese individuals, regardless of periodontal status. IL-34 and IL-10 showed no significant differences across groups. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-4 (MCP-4) levels were higher in obese individuals with periodontitis or periodontal health. IL-31 and IL-34 in GCF showed no significant differences between obese and nonobese individuals, without periodontitis. Conclusions: Heterogeneous results were noted for IL-6, IL-1ß, IL-31, IL-34, TNF-α, and MCP-4, hindering conclusions on weight's impact on inflammatory profiles in periodontal patients.

Comparative evaluation of mucin and total protein in periodontal disease before and after nonsurgical periodontal therapy.

Background: Periodontal ailments cause a quantum leap in the biomarker profile of the saliva. This profile is, in fact, the epiphany of the scale and extent of the disease. Both gingivitis and periodontitis are chronic inflammatory diseases with a step-grade progression. The study aimed to determine the response of the host in these conditions by analyzing concentrations of salivary mucin and total protein activity, before and after nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT). Materials and Methods: Sixty adult subjects were clinically examined and divided into three groups (n = 20) according to the clinical assessment and categorized as Group I (healthy), Group II (gingivitis), and Group III (chronic periodontitis). Whole saliva was collected, and salivary mucin and total protein levels were quantitatively measured at baseline in all the groups and additionally after NSPT in Groups II and III. Results: Levels of mucin and total protein increased in patients with gingivitis and periodontitis. There was a slight decline in mucin levels in periodontitis patients in comparison with the gingivitis group. A positive correlation was found between the respective clinical parameters of both the groups along with their levels of salivary mucin and total protein. It indicated that the response of salivary glands to increase their protective potential caused the change among the groups. Conclusion: Periodontal diseases induce an increase in the levels of mucins and proteins, which is believed as the action of the salivary glands to protect the oral cavity and put off the chaos caused by the microorganisms.

Effectiveness of herbal oral care products in reducing dental plaque and gingivitis: an overview of systematic reviews.

Introduction: Numerous clinical trials and systematic reviews have investigated the effectiveness of both herbal and conventional oral care approaches to reducing plaque and gingivitis. However, their findings vary and are inconsistent. Thus, the objective of this umbrella review is to compile data from systematic reviews and provide an overview of the effects of herbal oral care products on tooth plaque and gingivitis. Methods: A comprehensive search of the literature was performed in 6 databases for systematic reviews with or without meta-analyses, published up to 30 May 2023, without any language restrictions. Only clinical trials comparing herbal oral care products (in the form of mouthrinse or toothpaste) against standard oral care products or placebo were considered. Results: Some herbal oral care products, particularly in the form of mouthrinses, have a similar level of positive effect on plaque and gingivitis reduction and, thus, can be used as an adjunct to traditional dentifrices. However, the shorter duration of trials (<4 weeks) and reported publication bias in the clinical trials mean that these findings must be interpreted with caution. Conclusion: To accurately determine the impact of various herbal extracts on periodontal health, well-designed, long-term, and controlled trials that adhere to standardized protocols must be carried out.

Introduction: On a étudié l'efficacité d'approches de soins buccodentaires classiques et à base de plantes pour lutter contre la plaque dentaire et la gingivite dans le cadre de nombreux essais cliniques et revues systématiques. Toutefois, leurs conclusions ont été variables et incohérentes. Cette revue générale vise donc à compiler des données issues de revues systématiques et de présenter un aperçu des effets des produits de soins buccodentaires à base de plantes sur la plaque dentaire et la gingivite. Méthodes: On a procédé à une recherche documentaire exhaustive dans 6 bases de données pour effectuer des revues systématiques, avec ou sans méta-analyses, sans aucune restriction relative à la langue de l'étude, publiées avant le 30 mai 2023. Seuls des essais cliniques comparant des produits de soins buccodentaires à base de plantes (sous forme de rincebouche ou de dentifrice) à des produits de soins buccodentaires classiques ou à des placebos ont été envisagés. Résultats: Quelques produits de soins buccodentaires à base de plantes, en particulier les rince-bouches de ce type, ont des effets positifs comparables en matière de réduction de la plaque et de la gingivite et peuvent donc être utilisés en complément des dentifrices ordinaires. Toutefois, ces résultats doivent être interprétés avec prudence du fait de la durée relativement courte des essais (moins de 4 semaines) et du biais de publication signalé dans les essais cliniques. Conclusion: Pour déterminer avec précision les effets de divers extraits de plantes sur la santé parodontale, il est nécessaire d'avoir recours à des essais bien conçus, à long terme et contrôlés, qui respectent des protocoles normalisés.

Assessing the potential efficacy of 830-nanometer low-level laser therapy in cats: Extraoral applications.

Background and Aim: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has shown benefits as an alternative treatment of feline chronic gingivostomatitis by reducing pain and inflammation within the oral cavity. Extraoral application technique in cats provides more comfort compared to intraoral application. However, the efficacy of LLLT through buccal tissue is still controversial. This study aimed to investigate the penetration efficacy of LLLT using 830 nm continuous waves with various settings and different application techniques. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four healthy cats were included in this study. The wavelength of LLLT was 830 nm with an output power of 200 mW through extraoral application, using fluences of 2 and 6 J/cm2 in continuous-wave mode. This study compared different distances (contact and non-contact) and three different transmission media (absent media, alcohol, and normal saline solution). Measurement of the laser power within the oral cavity is represented as the mean output power (MOP). Results: Penetration efficacy was detectable for all fluences, distances, and transmission media, with an average buccal thickness of 2.68 mm. MOP did not differ between fluences of 2 and 6 J/cm2 (p = 0.19). In the absence of media, MOP was significantly higher compared with alcohol (p < 0.05) but was not significantly different from normal saline solution (p = 0.26). Conclusion: Extraoral application of LLLT demonstrated penetration efficacy through the buccal tissue with both contact and non-contact skin (<10 mm). This is a potential alternative treatment for oral diseases in clinical practice. However, there is a need for further study on the efficacy of treatment in clinical practice.

Effect of scaling on serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels and periodontal parameters in systemically healthy women of reproductive age group with gingivitis.

OBJECTIVE: Varying levels of sex hormones across the menstrual cycle in young systemically healthy females may alter tissue responses to plaque, resulting in increased gingival inflammation. Also, higher severity and prevalence of gingivitis has been demonstrated in adult females than males, attributed to hormonal changes. Further, literature reported that Gingivitis raises the levels of systemic inflammatory markers such as C Reactive Protein. This interventional trial aimed to evaluate the effect of supragingival scaling on serum highsensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels along with periodontal parameters in systemically healthy women of reproductive age group with natural gingivitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 57 women of reproductive age were enrolled into two groups. Test Group (n=30) comprised of systemically healthy women with gingivitis who received supragingival scaling. Control Group (n=27) included systemically and periodontally healthy females. Periodontal parameters [gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), pocket probing depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP)], and serum hsCRP levels were recorded at baseline for both the groups. Follow up of Test Group participants was done at 3 and 6 months. RESULTS: Serum hsCRP and periodontal parameters were significantly higher in Test Group than control group at baseline which decreased significantly after treatment in Test Group at 6 months follow up (p≤0.05). GI, BOP and hsCRP in Test Group at 6 months were reduced up to the baseline levels of systemically and periodontally healthy females. CONCLUSION: Treatment of gingival inflammation can help in lowering the systemic and local inflammation up to the levels of systemically and periodontally healthy females.

Oral Health Knowledge and Oral Hygiene Habits in a Sample of 12-Year-Old Hispanics: A Cross-sectional Study.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the association between hygiene knowledge and habits and gingivitis in Puerto Rican school children. METHODS: Questionnaires on oral health knowledge and hygiene habits were provided to almost half of the 12-year-olds who participated in an island-wide cross-sectional oral health study. The evaluations included gingival examinations in 2 quadrants. Odds ratios (ORs) (with 95% CIs) were computed using logistic regression models and oral health-related knowledge and hygiene habits to gingivitis. RESULTS: Of the 823 participants who completed the questionnaire 53.43% were female, and 81% had gingivitis. Most reported having received instructions on brushing (98%), flossing (89.5%), and using mouthwash (90%). The majority (75%) rated their gums as healthy, and 44.68% agreed that oral health affects general health. Nearly half (44%) reported brushing their teeth at least 2 times a day, and 80.25%, flossing daily. In multivariate analysis, not having been instructed on how to brush was related to greater odds of having gingivitis (OR: 7.32; 95% CI: 1.5-35.67). Flossing more than once a day was associated with half the odds of gingivitis (OR: 0.50; 95% CI: 0.29-0.88). CONCLUSION: The children had knowledge of oral hygiene methods but were mostly unaware that gingival health could affect systemic health. Fewer than half reported brushing 2 or more times a day. Not having been instructed on how to brush was associated with higher odds of gingivitis.

Effect of coconut and sesame oils on gingivitis.

The effectiveness of Oil Pulling Therapy (OPT) with coconut (CO) and sesame oil (SO) on gingivitis patients is of interest. Forty patients were randomly distributed into group A and B for CO and SO respectively. Participants of group A were explained in detail about the OPT with CO and group B with SO along with their routine oral hygiene practice for 30 days. The mean plaque index of CO and SO reduced from 1.5 to 1.32 and 1.65 to 1.36 (p<0.05) respectively after 30 days. The mean gingival index of CO and SO declined from 1.12 to 0.9 and 1.1 to 0.81 respectively after 30 days (p<0.05) compared to initial scores. The mean no. of colonies in the case of CO and SO declined from 35.8 x 103 to 32.4 x 103 and 6.8 x 103 to 34.6 x 103 after 30 days (p<0.05). OPT reduced plaque and gingivitis, according to the results of one month. Hence, we must increase awareness about oil pulling, as this home therapy can prevent gingival diseases in countries with limited resources like ours.

Supragingival microbiome variations and the influence of Candida albicans in adolescent orthodontic patients with gingivitis.

Introduction: Gingivitis is a prevalent complication in adolescents undergoing fixed orthodontic treatments. However, changes in the supragingival microbiome associated with gingivitis and the impact of Candida albicans remain elusive. Therefore, we investigated supragingival microbiome discrepancy and C. albicans colonization in adolescent orthodontic patients with gingivitis. Methods: Dental plaques were collected from 30 gingivitis patients and 24 healthy adolescents, all undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. The supragingival microbiome composition was analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing. C. albicans colonization was determined using fungal culture and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: Our analysis revealed significantly heightened microbial diversity in the Gingivitis group. Notably, patients with gingivitis exhibited an enrichment of periodontal pathogens, such as Saccharibacteria (TM7) [G-1], Selenomonas, Actinomyces dentalis, and Selenomonas sputigena. Additionally, 33% of the gingivitis patients tested positive for C. albicans, exhibiting significantly elevated levels of absolute abundance, while all healthy patients tested negative. Significant differences in microbial composition were also noted between C. albicans-positive and -negative samples in the Gingivitis group. Conclusion: Significant disparities were observed in the supragingival microbiome of adolescent orthodontic patients with and without gingivitis. The presence of C. albicans in the supragingival plaque may alter the microbiome composition and potentially contribute to gingivitis pathogenesis.

• Adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment, with and without gingivitis, show significant differences in their marginal supragingival plaque microbiomes. • Adolescent patients with gingivitis exhibit a significantly higher rate of Candida albicans colonization than healthy individuals. • The colonization of C. albicans alters the composition of the marginal supragingival plaque microbiome in patients with gingivitis.

Herbal Composite Preparation and Investigating its Efficiency to Inhibit Biofilm Formation and Virulence Factors of Prevotella Intermedia and Porphyromonas Gingivalis - Formulation of Mouthwash Using a Herbal Composite and Evaluating its Anti-microbial Activity.

Herbal composite preparation was studied with the aim of inhibiting the virulence factors of two dental pathogens: Prevotella intermedia and Porphyromonas gingivalis. A novel herbal composite was developed using the herbal extracts of Wrightia tinctoria and Bauhinia variegata. During the study, the following observations were noted. The minimal inhibitory concentration of Wrightia tinctoria and Bauhinia variegata composites (WBc) was obtained for the test concentration of 20 µg/ml (16 ± 0.57 mm and 15 ± 0.75 mm of inhibitory zones against Prevotella intermedia and Porphyromonas gingivalis, respectively). Biofilm inhibition assay results revealed about 0.51 ± 1.25 mg/ml and 0.53 ± 0.57 mg/ml of minimal biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) against Prevotella intermedia and Porphyromonas gingivalis, respectively. The effect of WBc on lactic acid production showed that 200 µg/ml and 400 µg/ml concentrates reduced up to 80% and 70% in Prevotella intermedia and Porphyromonas gingivalis, respectively. Formulated herbal mouthwash showed good stability under all three different test conditions (5°C, 25°C, and 40°C) as the color, odor, phase separation, and homogeneity were not changed for the period of 3 months. The anti-bacterial activity of formulated mouthwash (30 µg/ml) exhibited maximum inhibitory zones of about 18 ± 0.75 mm and 19 ± 1.05 mm against the respective test bacteria - Prevotella intermedia and Porphyromonas gingivalis. Amplification of mfa1 and clpB genes showed 246 bp and 294 bp fragments of P. gingivalis and 238 bp and 280 bp fragments of P. intermedia during agarose electrophoretic analysis. The docking report revealed -5.84 Kcal/Mol binding energy and found three hydrogen bonding between the quercetin and target protein, mfa1 of Porphyromonas gingivalis. The target protein, clpB of Prevotella intermedia, and quercetin had -6.72 Kcal/Mol binding energy and found four hydrogen bonds between them. The developed composite could be optimized in future to develop a novel and biocompatible herbal mouthwash for the prevention of different dental caries and gingival inflammation associated with dental biofilm formation.

Dental health status of children with diabetes in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Objective: The impact of diabetes on oral diseases remains debatable. We aimed to determine the prevalence of dental caries, gingival health status and knowledge, and oral hygiene level and practice in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods: The teeth of Sixty children with diabetes (33 males and 27 females; age 11.3 ± 2.2 [7-14] years) were examined for dental caries following the modified World Health Organization criteria. Data on age, sex, medical history, gingival health status and knowledge, and oral hygiene level and practice were collected from parents. Results: In this study, 53 % of the children had dental caries with decayed, missing, and filled primary and permanent teeth scores of 5.6 ± 3.8 and 3.6 ± 3.2, respectively, with similar scores for male and female children. Children with and without caries had similar oral hygiene practices and oral health knowledge but differed in the rates of good or fair oral hygiene status (89.2 vs. 56.6 %; P = 0.024) and normal gingival health status or mild gingivitis (96.5 vs. 81.3 %; P = 0.010). Conclusions: We found that the oral hygiene status and rate of gingivitis differed in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus with or without dental caries.

Effectiveness of Microneedling Technique Using Olive Oil on the Severity of Gingival Inflammation and Plaque Accumulation: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Gingival inflammation, a hallmark of periodontal diseases, serves as a critical focus in oral health research. Characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gingival tissues, it reflects the body's response to bacterial biofilms accumulating on the tooth surfaces. This inflammatory process, initiated by the interaction between oral bacteria and the host immune system, can lead to a spectrum of periodontal conditions ranging from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis. Understanding the efficacy of various methods to treat gingival inflammation is essential for refining treatment strategies and enhancing patient satisfaction in the realm of gingival inflammation. AIM: The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of employing the microneedling technique with olive oil on gingival inflammation and plaque accumulation in individuals with gingivitis.  Materials and methods:Twenty-four individuals diagnosed with plaque-induced gingivitis were selected from Saveetha Dental College, Chennai. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Group A, comprising 12 individuals who received mechanical periodontal treatment only and Group B, consisting of 12 individuals treated with dermapen and topical olive oil. This involved the creation of microholes in the gingival tissue to enhance the concentration and penetration of the oils through the gingival tissues. Post-intervention assessments of gingival and plaque status were conducted using a gingival index and a plaque index at baseline, one, two, and four weeks. Statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 23 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Intergroup analysis was done using Mann-Whitney test and intra-group analysis was done using Kruskal-Wallis test for all the study parameters. Statistical significance was set at a p-value of less than 0.05. RESULTS: The mean plaque index scores were 2.02 ± 0.12 and 2.29 ± 0.21 in the subgingival scaling and microneedling with olive oil group respectively in baseline. The scores were 1.83 ± 0.29 and 0.57 ± 0.16 in the subgingival scaling and microneedling with olive oil group respectively at the end of four weeks. The results of plaque index scores were statistically significant between the control and the intervened groups at the end of four weeks with a p value of 0.01*. The mean gingival index scores were 2.09 ± 0.16 and 2.37 ± 0.17 in the subgingival scaling and microneedling with olive oil group in the baseline respectively. The scores were 1.88 ± 0.23 and 0.96 ± 0.21 in the subgingival scaling and microneedling with olive oil group respectively at the end of four weeks. The results of gingival index scores were statistically significant between the control and the intervened groups at the end of four weeks with a p value of 0.01*. CONCLUSION: Our research showcased a novel and effective technique, unveiling a significant enhancement in gingival health accompanied by a reduction in both the average gingival index and plaque index.

Simplifying Oral health evaluation: a novel approach through single-item surveys.

BACKGROUND: This study adopts a novel approach of using single-item surveys to simplify the assessment of oral health status and behaviors among Japanese private sector employees. We aimed to establish the validity of self-reported oral health in relation to clinical dental examinations, and to elucidate the relationship between oral diseases, health behaviors, and self-assessments. A secondary aim was to explore the association of self-rated oral health with oral health behaviors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Self-administered questionnaires and dental examinations were obtained from 2262 Japanese private sector employees. Workers self-rated their overall oral health status according to five choices: "very good," "good," "fair," "poor," or "bad." Self-reports were then compared with the results of clinical dental examinations, which included measuring the oral hygiene index (DI-S), the number of decayed teeth, periodontal status (Community Periodontal Index) and number of missing teeth. Convergent validity was also tested by examining the correlations of self-reported oral health status with oral health behaviors. RESULTS: Overall, 30.8% of workers reported their oral health as "poor" or "bad." "Poor" or "bad" oral health status was significantly correlated with missing teeth, periodontitis, and decayed teeth. However, lower correlations were found for gingivitis and the oral hygiene index. Most self-reported oral health behaviors were correlated with self-rated oral health; exceptions were "tooth brushing instructions received in a dental clinic," "having a primary-care dentist," and "habitual snacking between meals." CONCLUSIONS: Self-rated oral health provides reasonably valid data, and correlated well with clinically assessed oral health status, including dental caries, periodontal status, and tooth loss. Convergent validity was also found for oral health behaviors. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical trial registration number: UMIN000023011 (UMIN-CTR). Date of clinical trial registration: 06/07/2016.

Moderate to advanced periodontitis contributes to increased oxidative stress in cats: a case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Periodontal diseases are the most frequently diagnosed problem in cats. It has been well-established that periodontal diseases could not only cause various oral health issues but could also contribute to systemic diseases. Oxidative stress is a possible link between systemic diseases and periodontitis. Our study aimed to illustrate the influence of periodontitis on oxidative stress development in cats. Furthermore, the changes in the bacterial flora of the gums were investigated. METHODS: Based on the clinical and laboratory examinations, fifty cats were divided into two groups normal (n = 25) and moderate to advanced periodontitis (n = 25). Serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), reduced (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) were measured. In addition, samples were taken from the subgingival plaques of all cats for bacterial culture. RESULTS: Serum TOS, GSSG, GSSG to GSH ratio, and oxidative stress index (OSI), calculated as the ratio of TOS to TAC in cats with periodontal disease were significantly higher, and TAC was significantly lower (p < 0.05) compared with controls. The results of bacterial culture indicated that the number of isolated bacterial colonies is higher in patients than in the control group. Additionally, the analysis of these data showed a positive association between periodontal index and oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS: Our results revealed that periodontitis in cats is related to a main oxidative stress. Furthermore, oxidant factors such as TOS and OSI, compared to antioxidant factors, may better indicate the presence of oxidative stress conditions in patients with periodontitis.