Background: Clear aligners are a popular choice for orthodontic treatment due to their aesthetic appeal, comfort, and the ability to be easily taken on and off, unlike fixed appliances, which cannot be removed once treatment begins. Two common fabrication methods for aligners are direct 3D printing and thermoforming. This systematic review aims to compare the mechanical, physical, and optical properties of 3D-printed aligners (DPAs) and thermoformed aligners (TFAs) to provide evidence-based insights for clinicians and researchers. Material and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in electronic data-bases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar, to identify studies evaluating and comparing DPAs and TFAs. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, focusing on outcomes such as load-deflection behavior, dimensional accuracy, tensile strength, force decay, thickness, and transparency. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the RoBDEMAT tool for in vitro studies and the ROBINS-I tool for in vivo studies. Data synthesis involved narrative and qualitative approaches to summarize the findings. Results: A total of ten studies were included, comprising eight in vitro studies and two in vivo studies. The included studies exhibited moderate risk of bias due to insufficient reporting of randomization and operator blinding. DPAs demonstrated superior dimensional accuracy, thickness uniformity, and optical properties compared toTFAs. However, TFAs exhibited better force retention and consistent load. While the mechanical strength of DPAs was higher, TFAs showed greater stability in long-term force delivery. Conclusions: DPAs provide superior precision and aesthetics, while TFAs offer better durability and sustained force retention, highlighting the need for case-specific aligner selection.
Aim: To evaluate the effect of systemic omega-3 fatty acid (Ω-3) supplementation as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) on the clinical and microbiological parameters of patients with periodontitis. Material and Methods: Eighteen volunteers received NSPT combined with placebo or Ω-3 (2 g/day) for 90 days (n=10 control, n=8 intervention). Clinical parameters, including probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), O’Leary index (OI), Bleeding on Probing (BoP) and suppuration, were recorded at baseline, and at 1, 3, and 6 months post-therapy. Microbiological evaluation at baseline, 3, and 6 months assessed the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, and Fusobacterium nucleatum using conventional polymerase chain reaction. Results: Fifteen patients completed the study (n=9 control, n=6 intervention). No significant differences were found in demographic, clinical, or microbiological variables between groups at baseline (p>0.05). Both groups showed clinical improvements over time; however, no significant intergroup differences were detected in PPD, CAL, PPD reduction, CAL gain, or the percentage of sites with BoP and biofilm (p>0.05). Similarly, no differences were observed in the mean or changes (Δ) of shallow (PPD 1–3 mm), intermediate (PPD 4–6 mm), or deep sites (PPD ≥7 mm) between groups at any post-NSPT evaluation. No significant intra- or intergroup differences in periodontal pathogens were observed at any post-therapy evaluation. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, adjunctive systemic Ω-3 did not provide additional clinical or microbiological benefits compared to NSPT alone. Further studies with larger samples and longer follow-up are required to clarify its role in periodontal therapy.
Introduction: This study used panoramic and lateral cephalometric radiographs to evaluate the relationship between dental calcification stages and cervical vertebral maturation in Mexican individuals. Material and Methods: In this study, 201 patients aged 6 to 17 from Queretaro, Mexico, underwent lateral cephalometric radiographs and panoramic radiographs. Two trained and calibrated orthodontists and oral radiologists used Baccetti's method to assess cervical maturation stages and Demirjian's method to evaluate dental calcification stages. The correlation between the stages was assessed using Spearman's correlation coefficient. Additionally, the chi-square test was used to evaluate the association between the stages of both methods, using the teeth with the highest correlation values (p<0.05). Results: The strongest correlation values were observed for the second molar (r=0.706), second premolar (r=0.661), and lower canine (r=0.653) (p<0.001). Among these teeth, the lower canine displayed the strongest association. There was a significant relationship between the CS3 vertebra stage and the G stage (42.9%), as well as between the CS4 stage and the H stage (48.2%) (p<0.001). Conclusions: Based on the sample results, the stage of bone development can be identified by examining dental calcification using the lower canine on panoramic radiographs as a reference. This knowledge can help determine the stage of cervical calcification, which can help create an effective treatment plan.
Background: Pediatric dental anxiety had remained a major barrier to care, with the need for brief non-pharmacologic strategies, especially during local anesthesia. Thaumaturgic techniques had been hypothesized to reduce procedure-proximal anxiety through attentional capture, positive affect, and expectancy modulation aligned with the cognitive developmental stages. Material and Methods: Six databases were searched (inception to final run), reference lists and grey literature were screened, and authors were contacted for missing data. Two re-viewers independently screened, extracted data and applied Cochrane RoB 2.0. Continuous outcomes were synthesised with random-effects models using mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% Cis. Results: Four randomized trials (k = 4; N = 690) met inclusion. Trick-specific syntheses showed that the thumb-and-light routine produced a pooled MD = −3.40 (95% CI −6.18 to −0.61; I² = 95.9%; τ² = 7.76; prediction interval −13.35 to 6.55), the magic coloring book yielded SMD = −2.65 (95% CI −4.02 to −1.29; I² = 81.5%; τ² = 0.80), and the item-prediction routine yielded SMD = −4.73 (95% CI −5.74 to −3.72). Qualitative synthesis showed stage-contingent benefits (visual salience favoured younger children; rule-/prediction-based routines favoured older cohorts), larger effects versus minimal/standard comparators than versus active audio-visual distraction, and greater impact when timed to the injection moment. Conclusions: Thaumaturgic techniques were associated with clinically meaningful, procedure-proximal reductions in pediatric dental anxiety, with magnitude conditioned by cognitive stage, trick family, and comparator stringency.
Introduction: Cleft lip and palate is a frequent congenital malformation with a significant impact on facial function and aesthetics. Pre-surgical nasoalveolar molding (PNAM) emerged as an early orthopedic technique to correct them. Objectives: To describe the state of the art of nasoalveolar molding in a pre-surgical treatment of unilateral complete cleft lip and palate and its benefits. Material and Methods: A systematic review was conducted in PubMed and Scopus, using the PICO strategy and PRISMA guidelines, focusing on studies published between 2020 and 2024 that evaluated PNAM in unilateral complete clefts, in English and Spanish, excluding single cases, incomplete, bilateral clefts, and syndromic patients. The mesh and boolean terms used were "cleft lip," "cleft palate," "molding" AND "nasoalveolar." Results: Of a total of 695 studies, 8 articles were selected that met the inclusion criteria. Benefits of PNAM in correcting cleft lip and palate were observed, including: (1) improvements in nasal symmetry, (2) reduction of the alveolar cleft, and (3) alignment of the alveolar segments, based on the principle of neonatal plasticity. This treatment facilitates primary surgery and dental alignment, although with significant variability due to the lack of standardized protocols. Additionally, PNAM reduces the psychological and financial burden on families, improving the quality of life of the patients. Conclusions: PNAM is a useful technique in the early orthopedic management of cleft lip and palate, offering aesthetic and functional benefits in the immediate, short, and long term. However, further clinical studies are needed to support its long-term effectiveness and to promote the standardization of protocols.
Introduction: Oral health (OH) is vital to overall well-being, influencing essential functions such as chewing, speaking, and expressing emotions without discomfort. Despite its importance, OH problems remain a public health concern globally and in Indonesia, especially among youth. Jakarta, as the capital, reflects disparities in OH knowledge, attitude, and practices, shaped by demographic and socioeconomic factors. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2025 using an online questionnaire targeting Jakarta residents aged 10 years and above. A total of 614 participants were recruited through random sampling. The questionnaire, adapted from a validated tool, assessed OH knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Data were analyzed using non-parametric tests and Spearman’s correlation, with p <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The majority of participants demonstrated good knowledge (98.2%) and positive attitudes (95.3%), but only 75.9% practiced adequate oral hygiene. Significant associations were found between age group and both knowledge (p< 0.001) and practice (p = 0.018). Education level and location were also linked to knowledge (p= 0.030 and p= 0.021, respectively), while gender showed no significant associations. Conclusions: While OH knowledge and attitudes are high among Jakarta residents, gaps in practice persist, particularly among younger age groups. Targeted interventions based on age, education, and regional disparities are essential to improve oral health behaviors. This study underscores the need for continuous, demographically tailored oral health promotion efforts to reduce preventable oral diseases in Jakarta.
Introduction: Clear cell odontogenic carcinoma (CCOC) is a rare and aggressive odontogenic tumour, seldom involving the anterior mandible. Case Report: This report presents an atypical case in a 38-year-old female, emphasizing the diagnostic challenges, the role of CBCT in detecting aggressive features, and the importance of considering CCOC in the differential diagnosis of anterior mandibular lesions. The patient presented with gingival swelling, and cone-beam computed tomography revealed a diffuse, irregular, expansile lesion with labial cortical perforation, thinning of the lingual cortex, and hyperdense foci. Periosteal bone formation was also noted anteriorly. Results: These atypical features initially suggested alternative diagnoses, but histopathological evaluation confirmed CCOC. This case reinforces the diagnostic challenges of CCOC and demonstrates the utility of radiographic evaluation for identifying aggressive features of rare mandibular tumours.
Purpose: Myofascial pain is a common temporomandibular disorder that negatively affects quality of life. This study aims to assess the current evidence on the clinical response of dry needling (DN) applied to the masseter muscle as a therapeutic option for managing temporomandibular myofascial pain. Material and Methods: A systematic electronic search of the literature was performed in PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases using tailored search strategies for each database. Articles published within the last five years were included if they evaluated DN of the masseter muscle in adults with myofascial pain, compared to placebo or other interventions. Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Methodological quality was evaluated with the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Spanish (CASPe) checklist for randomized controlled trials. Risk of bias assessment was not performed due to heterogeneity in study designs. Results: Six studies met the inclusion criteria (four randomized clinical trials, one prospective study, one with unspecified design) involving 243 patients aged 18-65 years. Myofascial pain diagnosis was based on RDC/TMD or DC/TMD criteria. DN produced clinically meaningful reductions in pan intensity, with improvements maintained up to six months in some studies. Functional outcomes such as mouth opening and lateral movements also improved. The comparative efficacy of DN versus other treatments (botulinum toxin- A, platelet-rich plana, anesthetic nerve blocks) remains inconclusive due to variability in protocols and follow-up. Conclusions: Dry needling of the masseter muscle shows potential as a therapeutic option for temporomandibular myofascial pain, particularly in reduction and functional improvement. However, heterogeneity across studies and lack of standardized protocols limit definitive conclusions. Further high-quality, standardized research is warranted.
Aim: The aim of the systematic review and quantitative synthesis was to assess and compare the efficacy of chemo-mechanical caries removal (CMCR) and atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) on pain reaction among children. Material and Methods: Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane, Science Direct, EBSCOhost, Lilacs, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched from the earliest available year till July 15, 2024. PICO Strategy: P: Children; I: Chemo-mechanical caries removal; C: Atraumatic restorative treatment; O: Pain reaction. The review comprised only randomised controlled trials and clinical studies. The risk of bias assessment and quality of evidence were assessed using the RoB-2 Tool and GRADE Tool, respectively. Results: Five full-text publications that met the requirements for eligibility underwent additional processing for data extraction. The overall results of the review suggest that there is no difference in the effect of CMCR and ART on pain reaction among children with a 95% CI of OR: 0.12 [0.01, 1.68]; p=0.12. However, the pooled data suggested high heterogeneity (p<0.0001; I2=89%) among the studies. Conclusions: The current review concludes that the effect of CMCR and ART on pain reaction among children is comparable. However, the certainty is low due to high heterogeneity among the included studies. Further studies with a combination of subjective and objective scales may help determine the true pain reaction and provide more conclusive evidence for pain reaction to CMCR and ART.
Introduction: Dental anomalies are congenital malformations of the tissues of the tooth that can range from alterations in number, eruption, location, size and shape to structural abnormalities. Among the alterations in number we find the supernumerary tooth, defined as a tooth formed in excessive number. Material and Methods: Two paediatric patients presented for consultation between June and August 2022 at the dentistry clinic of the Universidad de la Sierra Sur (UNSIS). On clinical and radiographic examination, the presence of a supernumerary tooth located in the palate between the upper central incisors (dental organ 11 and 21) was observed. Results: The mesiodens type supernumerary teeth were extracted with a surgical technique using a surgical motor and with a favourable operative and postoperative outcome for the patient. Conclusions: Among the supernumerary teeth, the most common is the mesiodens. Early detection, diagnosis and management is important in order to avoid abnormal development of the patient's dental occlusion and aesthetics.
Introduction: Pharmacological care in pediatric patients must be appropriate for their stage of growth and development; therefore, dentists must have adequate knowledge to ensure safe prescribing. Objective: To determine the knowledge of general dentists in Lima, Peru regarding the prescription of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics (ATBs) in children. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study included 300 general dentists (57.3% male; 51.7% ≥ 30 years old). A 25-question questionnaire on knowledge of NSAIDs and ATBs (22 items, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin value ≥ 0.795, Bartlett’s test: p<0.001, Kuder-Richardson-20 value ≥ 0.893) and demographic data (age, sex, work sector) was applied in 2023. Mann-Whitney U and Chi-square tests were used considering p<0.05 as significant. Results: Most participants had low level knowledge about NSAIDs (59%) and ATBs (60.7%) prescription, with total knowledge scores [(10 (IQR = 6)], NSAIDs [5, IQR =10] and ATBs [4 (IQR =7] being similar for sex, age, and work sector (p≥ 0.199). Most participants were aware of the therapeutic indication of NSAIDs for pain and inflammation relief but were unaware of the adequate dosages of sodium diclofenac and naproxen concentrations (57.7% to 58.3%) and the concentration of amoxicillin with or without clavulanic acid, azithromycin dosage, administration volume, or duration of ATB use (56% to 58.7%) (p≤ 0.043). The group <30 years old presented a higher knowledge score for NSAIDs compared to ATBs (p= 0.030). Conclusions: General dentists in Lima have insufficient knowledge regarding NSAID and ATB prescription in pediatric patients.
Introduction: Empathy is an important attribute in the relationship between the health professional and the patient and is responsible for establishing the intersubjective relationship between them. However, empathy could be modulated by exogenous factors where one of them could be resilience. Therefore, it can be hypothesized that resilience serves as a predictor of empathy. Objective: The aim of the present study is to evaluate whether resilience can predict empathy. Material and Methods: A non-experimental, cross-sectional study was conducted. The levels of two latent constructs were measured: individual resilience and student-patient empathy. Population: Dentistry students at the Universidad Autónoma de Santa Ana, El Salvador. The sample was chosen based on the voluntary participation of students in this research. The sample is convenience-based. Resilience was considered as the independent variable and empathy as the dependent variable. There is no established theory fully supporting the nature of these variables. A Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was applied to determine the relationship between both variables. Results: It was found that resilience is capable of predicting empathy. Specifically, the engineering dimension negatively and significantly predicts all dimensions of empathy. The adaptation dimension of resilience negatively and significantly predicts the CC (Compassionate Care) and WIPS (Walking in the Patient's Shoes) dimensions of empathy, and finally, the ecological dimension positively and significantly predicts all dimensions of empathy. The negative and significant predictions are explained based on the students' responses, which may reflect their concept of themselves in relation to resilience. Conclusions: There is a relationship between resilience and empathy. The findings could constitute empirical elements that could contribute to verifying a working hypothesis consistent with describing resilience as a predictor variable of empathy.
Introduction: Cervicofacial infections can invade superficial and deep anatomical planes of the head and neck. Their origin is multifactorial, and despite having a slow onset, they can lead to a sudden invasion of surrounding tissues, increasing morbidity and mortality. An effective diagnosis will impact the timely management of a maxillofacial infection. Material and Methods: A review of 173 surgical protocols from Dr. Carlos Cisternas Hospital in Calama, Chile, on maxillofacial infections was conducted by two previously calibrated evaluators. Over a period from May 2018 to December 2023, variables such as year, gender, age, surgical procedure, type of approach, type of infection, origin, use of drainage, first surgery, or reoperation were analyzed. Results: The most common cervicofacial infections in this study were deep cervical abscesses, submandibular abscesses, and multicompartmental head abscesses. Males were slightly more predominant; transfacial/cervicotomy approaches were the most used, and most infections had a nonspecific oropharyngeal origin. Conclusions: Cervicofacial infections have a slow onset but can rapidly spread when the patient's systemic condition is compromised. The most prevalent were deep cervical abscesses, submandibular abscesses, and multicompartmental head abscesses, with a slightly higher prevalence in males. Treatment with empirical antibiotic therapy, combined with thorough surgical cleansing, had a positive effect on the management of cervicofacial infections.
Background: Studies have shown that fluoride is present in various natural sources and plays a key role in preventing tooth decay. However, excessive exposure has been linked to adverse health effects. In recent years, cases of dental fluorosis have been reported in areas of Mexico City, including the Tláhuac municipality, where it had not previously been observed. Objective: To determine fluoride concentrations in tap water and assess associated health risks in the Tláhuac municipality. Material and Methods: Twenty-four neighborhoods within the Tláhuac municipality were selected and divided into three zones: North, Central, and South. Fluoride levels were quantified using the ion-selective potentiometric method with the Orion 4 Star instrument (Thermo Electron Corporation). Health risk assessment was conducted using the US-EPA model, considering both adult and child populations in the study area. Results: The mean fluoride concentration in Tláhuac was 0.700 ± 0.0934 mg/L, ranging from 0.539 to 0.934 mg/L. The estimated risk values were 0.24 ± 0.02 mg/L for adults and 1.5 ± 0.15 mg/L for children. Conclusions: The findings indicate that fluoride concentrations in Tláhuac's drinking water exceed recommended safe intake levels for children. The hazard quotient for children was greater than one, suggesting a potential risk of adverse health effects.
Objective: To descriptively assess the expression of Neurofilament heavy (NFH) and Nestin in the dental pulp (DP). Material and Methods: Fifteen human teeth were extracted and classified according to three Moorrees tooth development stages: initial root formation (Ri), root length ½ (R1/2), and root length complete (Rc). Immunohistochemical assays were performed for NFH and Nestin and analyzed under light microscopy. Images for each antibody immunoexpression in tissue sections from each stage of root development were qualitatively analyzed to evaluate the spatial distribution for each antibody. Results: Paraffin-embedded tooth sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin showed an apical cell-rich zone between the DP and the apical papilla. NFH was expressed in the core of the dental pulp as bundles of nerve fibers and sprouts. NFH immunostaining is closely associated with arteries and capillaries in all the developmental stages samples. Neuroepithelial stem cell protein (Nestin) was highly expressed in differentiated odontoblasts in the predentin odontoblast and odontoblast cell processes, indicating a reservoir of newly differentiated odontoblast-like cells. Conclusions: Nestin is a crucial antibody in the early stages of dental pulp tissue development, and NFH remains in the core of mature dental pulp suggesting its role in the tissue's homeostasis. Successful tissue regeneration depends directly on forming a functional vascular network and innervation. Therefore, the full comprehension of the biological features provides valuable insights into the complex challenge of regenerating dental pulp innervation.
Aim: The aim of this study was volumetric evaluation and comparison of internal voids and shear bond strength (SBS) between primer-based adhesives (PB) and non-primer-based adhesives (NPB). Material and Methods: Extracted 40 human maxillary premolar teeth were bonded with four different adhesives - group 1: Ormco enlight, group 2: Transbond XT, group 3: Aqualine LC, group 4: Orthofix SPA, followed by three-dimensional microscopic tomographic valuation of the adhesive - tooth bracket interface. The images were reconstructed and 3D volumetric visualisation for mean void volume was performed. Shear bond strength (SBS) assessment was also performed.After shear mode testing, each tooth's enamel surface was examined to determine the Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI), which assesses the amount of adhesive remaining after debonding. Data was tabulated and SPSS software was used for statistical analysis with level of significance set at 0.05. Results: A statistically significant difference (p-value-0.000) in mean void volume and void percentage was observed. SBS showed a statistically significant difference between the groups. (p-value-0.000). ARI scores with the Kruskal-Wallis test revealed statistically significant differences (p-value= 0.000) Conclusions: Teeth bonded with NPB adhesive (Aqualine LC) had the highest void volume. Teeth bonded with PB adhesive (Transbond XT) had the highest SBS. Minimal adhesive remnants on enamel were noted for teeth bonded with PB adhesives (Transbond XT & Ormco enlight). Ormco Enlight and Transbond XT left little to no adhesive (Scores 0 and 1), while Aqualine LC and Orthofix SPA had higher adhesive retention (Scores 2 and 3).
Background: Eating disorders (EDs) are serious mental health conditions characterized by disordered eating behaviors and excessive concern about body weight, shape, or food intake, affecting an individual's psychological, physical, and oral health. Oral health professionals are often the first to recognize these signs and symptoms, thus playing a crucial role in early detection and timely intervention. Aim: To assess the knowledge of dental students and professionals regarding the psychological, physical, and oral health implications of EDs. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured and validated questionnaire among 193 clinical-year dental students (DS) and 40 practicing dental professionals (DP) in Malaysia, selected through a convenience sampling method. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: demographic data, and assessments of knowledge and awareness regarding the psychological, physical, and oral health manifestations of EDs. Differences in participants' knowledge was assessed using Fisher’s exact test and the Chi-square test. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Participants showed poor knowledge of certain EDs symptoms, including gender predilection (DS: 34.7%, DP: 35.0%), low body weight (DS: 41.5%, DP: 52.5%), parotid gland enlargement (DS: 28.5%, DP: 25.0%), and poor oral hygiene (DS: 36.3%, DP: 47.5%). Good level of knowledge was noted for associations with stress and anxiety (DS: 89.6%, DP: 90.0%), and mirror checking (DS: 78.2%, DP: 65.0%). Moderate knowledge was observed for social withdrawal (DS: 51.3%, DP: 50.0%), knuckle bruises, (DS: 51.3%, DP: 57.5%), low self-esteem (DS: 69.4%, DP: 72.5%), nail erosion, dental caries, hypersensitivity, angular cheilitis, and oral pain/burning(DS: 59.6%, DP: 55.0%). Significant differences between DS and DP were found for mirror checking (p<0.05), oral candidiasis (p<0.05), and symptoms such as burning sensation, taste changes, and unexplained oral pain (p<0.05). Conclusions: DS and DP demonstrated varying levels of knowledge about EDs, with poor levels of knowledge on certain key physical and oral manifestations. Therefore, integrating education on EDs into dental training is essential to support early diagnosis and timely referral.
Background: Oral health care plays a critical role in childhood. Factors influencing the non-utilization of oral health services must be identified to improve oral health in children. Objective: To estimate the frequency of non-utilization of oral health services in Ecuadorian children and identify its associated factors. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a probabilistic sample of 8,461 Ecuadorian children aged 5-9. The data were obtained from the 2012 National Survey of Health and Nutrition. The information on oral health care and sociodemographic variables was collected through a questionnaire applied to mothers or caregivers of the children. Bivariate and multivariate analyses, using logistic regression, were employed to identify factors associated with the non-utilization of oral health services. Results: 30.6% (95% CI:29.6-31.6) did not visit the dentist in the last year before the survey. 47.5% of parents or guardians mentioned that it was unnecessary, 13.8% did not attend due to a lack of time, and 9.8% did not have the necessary funds. Non-utilization of oral health services was associated with living in urban areas (OR: 1.26; 95% CI 1.13-1.41), in the Coast region (OR: 1.55; 95% CI 1.37-1.74), self-identify as indigenous (OR: 1.72; 95% CI 1.48-2.01), that the child lives only with the mother (OR: 1.13; 95% CI 1.01-1.28), only with the father (OR: 1.48; 95% CI 1.01-2.17), or in the absence of both (OR: 1.54; 95% CI 1.22-1.94). For each year of increasing age, the probability of not visiting the dentist decreased by 6% (OR: 0.94; 95% CI 0.90-0.97) and for each increase in the socioeconomic quintile by 11% (OR: 0.89; 95% CI 0.86-0.93). Conclusions: Demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with the non-utilization of oral health services in Ecuador act as barriers to dental care.
Aim and Objective: To assess and compare the oral health status and treatment needs in institutionalized deaf and non speaking children to typically developing children in Ahmedabad city, Gujarat, India. Material and Methods: A total 2200 children aged between 5-15 years were included in the study, Group I: 1100 typically developing, and Group II: 1100 deaf and non-speaking children. A customized proforma was used to evaluate oral health status and treatment needs. Results: There was an overall higher caries experience as well as preventive, restorative and orthodontic treatment needs in deaf and non-speaking children compared to typically developing children. Conclusions: This study showed the need for restorative and orthodontic treatment in the deaf non-speaking pediatric population with increased lack of dental care access for sensory-impaired children.
