This study investigates the morphology and prevalence of the Supratrochlear Foramen (STF) in dry humerus specimens, with focus on its shape, morphometry, and potential role in elbow joint stability and mobility. The research explores the anatomical adaptations of the humeral trochlea and proximal ulna and radius that facilitate dynamic movement during flexion, extension, and pronation-supination. The findings suggest that the deepening of the humeral fossae enhances the range of motion, contributing to joint stability. Six paired upper limb bones were examined through linear and angular morphometry, involving key landmarks and axes to analyze the relation between bone morphology and movement. The study proposes that deepening of the articular fossae may serve to increase the amplitude of flexion and extension, playing a significant role in elbow kinematics and stability.
Periodontitis is a prevalent chronic inflammatory disease that results in the destruction of tooth-supporting structures and can lead to tooth loss if not properly diagnosed and managed. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics have highlighted the utility of saliva as a non-invasive diagnostic fluid rich in biomarkers that reflect both local periodontal inflammation and systemic influences. This scoping review synthesizes current evidence on the role of salivary biomarkers in periodontitis, with a focus on their classification, diagnostic accuracy, prognostic potential, and the technological advancements that facilitate their clinical application. Pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-1β, TNF-α), matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-8, MMP-9), immune-modulatory proteins (suPAR, galectin-1), and microbial components have shown strong correlations with periodontal disease activity. Factors such as smoking, systemic conditions, genetic predisposition, and microbiota composition significantly influence salivary biomarker levels. Technological developments, including point-of-care diagnostic devices and multiplex assays, are accelerating the transition toward real-time, personalized periodontal care. Despite promising results, further standardization and large-scale validation are necessary before routine clinical implementation. Salivary biomarkers represent a promising frontier in non-invasive periodontal diagnostics and personalized therapeutic strategies.
Aim of the study Effective mechanical plaque control requires more than toothbrushing alone, particularly in young adults, where preventive habits are still forming. To assess mechanical oral hygiene practices and their association with self-reported oral health indicators among young adults. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted on 137 participants aged 18–22 years. Descriptive statistics and Pearson Chi-square tests were applied, with p 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Daily toothbrushing was reported by 98.5% of participants, and 83.2% brushed at least twice daily. Fluoridated toothpaste use was high (87.6%). However, regular use of dental floss was reported by only 39.4%, while 90.5% never used a water flosser. Brushing frequency was significantly associated with occupational status (p = 0.011), and interdental floss use with socio-economic status (p = 0.031). Higher brushing frequency and optimal brushing duration were associated with lower self-reported gingival bleeding. Conclusions: Despite adequate basic brushing habits, important gaps persist in comprehensive mechanical plaque control, highlighting the need for targeted preventive education.
Chronic inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity, especially periodontal disease, are highly prevalent pathologies characterized by persistent inflammation of the supporting tissues of the teeth, mainly caused by bacterial colonization and local immune response. A growing body of evidence suggests a pathogenic link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is responsible for most global mortality. This review explores the pathophysiological, immunological, and epidemiological connections between chronic oral inflammation and cardiovascular risk. Proposed mechanisms include transient bacteremia caused by dental manipulations or spontaneous gingival bleeding, dissemination of bacterial products (e.g., lipopolysaccharides), and systemic activation of the inflammatory response. These processes can lead to endothelial dysfunction, acceleration of atherogenesis, and instability of atherosclerotic plaques. Systemic inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukins, and TNF-α, are often elevated in patients with severe periodontitis, correlating with an increased cardiovascular risk. Epidemiological data support the association between periodontitis and pathologies such as acute myocardial infarction, stroke, and ischemic coronary artery disease. Although the direct causal relationship remains partially elucidated, the importance of evaluating and treating chronic oral inflammation in the context of cardiovascular prevention is becoming increasingly evident. Integrating dentistry into cardiovascular risk assessment could be an important step in preventive medicine, and future research should aim at developing common biomarkers and interdisciplinary therapeutic strategies.
Background: Osteoporosis and periodontitis are prevalent chronic conditions in aging populations and are both characterized by bone loss in distinct anatomical compartments. Increasing attention has focused on inflammation as a potential biological link between systemic skeletal deterioration and periodontal breakdown. Objective: This narrative review summarizes inflammatory mechanisms that may link osteoporosis (or low bone mineral density) with periodontal status and critically appraises the clinical evidence supporting these associations. Summary of evidence: Osteoporosis, particularly in postmenopausal and older individuals, is increasingly understood within an osteoimmune framework in which low-grade systemic inflammation contributes to remodeling imbalance. Cytokine networks and immune cell–mediated signaling can promote osteoclastogenesis and weaken coupling between resorption and formation. Periodontitis is driven by a dysbiosis-associated, non-resolving host response that sustains local inflammation and favors connective tissue degradation and alveolar bone resorption. Convergent pathways include upregulation of osteoclastogenic signals (notably RANKL/OPG imbalance), cytokine amplification loops, and adaptive immune polarization that may lower the threshold for destructive inflammation. Clinically, observational studies frequently report worse periodontal parameters in individuals with osteoporosis or low bone mineral density, with signals often more apparent in postmenopausal cohorts. Nonetheless, heterogeneity in phenotype definitions, residual confounding, and the predominance of cross-sectional designs limit causal inference; genetic causal-inference studies generally argue against a strong direct causal effect of bone mineral density on periodontitis risk. Conclusions: The most defensible interpretation is a modifier model: systemic skeletal status and osteoporosis-related inflammatory tone may influence susceptibility to periodontal breakdown or its progression once local dysbiosis-driven inflammation is established. Future work should prioritize standardized periodontal phenotyping, progression-focused longitudinal designs, and the integration of inflammatory and bone-turnover biomarkers, while accounting for menopausal stage and medication exposure.
Modern craniometry has undergone a profound transformation driven by advances in three-dimensional (3D) analytical methods, population genetics, and critical reassessments of the biological concept of race. Historically, craniometric research relied on linear measurements and typological frameworks that sought to classify human populations into discrete racial categories. Accumulating genetic evidence has demonstrated that human biological variation is predominantly continuous, with greater diversity occurring within populations than between them, undermining the biological validity of racial typologies. In parallel, the development of geometric morphometrics and high-resolution 3D imaging technologies has enabled comprehensive analysis of cranial shape as a complex, multivariate phenotype, independent of predefined categories. These methods reveal extensive overlap in cranial morphology across populations and align closely with clinal patterns of genetic variation shaped by migration, admixture, and local adaptation. The integration of non-racial craniometric models into clinical and biomedical contexts further highlights their relevance, improving individualized assessment while reducing the risk of biological essentialism. By synthesizing anthropological, genetic, and biomedical evidence, this review argues that modern craniometry provides both the empirical tools and conceptual framework necessary for abandoning racial classification. The adoption of a post-racial approach not only enhances scientific accuracy but also addresses longstanding ethical concerns associated with the misuse of cranial data, positioning craniometry as a model discipline for the responsible study of human biological diversity.
The rehabilitation of partially and fully edentulous patients has undergone significant evolution, transitioning from conventional removable prostheses to a wide spectrum of implant-supported solutions that offer improved function, stability, and patient satisfaction. This review provides an updated synthesis of contemporary prosthodontic strategies, addressing biological principles, biomechanical considerations, material advancements, and evidence-based clinical decision-making. Conventional removable partial and complete dentures remain essential options in many clinical contexts, particularly for medically compromised or financially constrained patients; however, their limitations regarding retention, stability, and masticatory performance have driven the development of implant-assisted and implant-supported alternatives. Implant-retained overdentures, implant-supported removable prostheses, and fixed–removable hybrid solutions demonstrate enhanced functional outcomes, better load distribution, and improved oral health–related quality of life, supported by a growing body of clinical evidence. Recent innovations in digital workflows, CAD/CAM manufacturing, and high-performance polymers have further optimized treatment precision and predictability. This review integrates current concepts and clinical data to guide practitioners in selecting appropriate treatment approaches based on patient-specific anatomical, functional, and systemic factors. Overall, the progression from conventional dentures to implant-supported rehabilitations represents a paradigm shift toward more stable, efficient, and personalized prosthetic care for edentulous patients.
Aim of the study: This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the dimensional accuracy of 3D printed working models used in dental applications, by comparing three different 3D printers: Planmeca Creo C5, Xprint, and Anycubic Photon Mono X 6Ks. The primary goal is to assess the clinical feasibility of each device in producing precise dental models for full coverage crowns. Materials and methods: A digital reference model was created via high-resolution extraoral scanning using the PlanScan Lab scanner. This reference model was then printed using three target printers. Each printed model underwent a standardized post-processing protocol involving washing with Form Wash L machine and dual-wavelength UV curing with Twin Cure V system. STL files were analyzed using CloudCompare software through superimposition with the reference model, followed by fine registration and deviation mapping. The raw data, exported as histograms, were further processed with a custom C++ program designed to quantify deviation distributions using Gaussian, sigmoid, linear, and strict threshold-based methods. This allowed precise evaluation of each printer’s performance against sub-millimetric tolerance ranges (0.2 mm to 0.5 mm). Results: Xprint exhibited the highest accuracy, with 91.19% of surface points within the 0.2 mm threshold, increasing to 98.57% at 0.5 mm. Anycubic showed moderate performance, with 84.4% of points within 0.2 mm and over 96% above 0.3 mm. Planmeca Creo C5 demonstrated limited precision, with only 47.75% within 0.2 mm and clinically acceptable accuracy reached only beyond 0.4 mm. These results indicate significant variability in dimensional fidelity between printing systems. Conclusions: Among the evaluated printers, Xprint is best suited for applications demanding high precision, such as full coverage crowns well adapted to preparation margine line. Anycubic is adequate for conventional prosthodontics and orthodontic appliances where tolerances above 0.3 mm are clinically acceptable. Planmeca Creo C5, while less accurate, remains viable for diagnostic models, provisional restorations, and educational use. These findings underscore the importance of aligning printer capabilities with the clinical requirements of each dental application. The integration of software-based analysis and statistical modeling enhances decision-making in digital dentistry, supporting optimized clinical outcomes.
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is one of the most widely prescribed and self-administered analgesics worldwide, commonly recommended as a first-line treatment for musculoskeletal pain, including non-specific low back pain and osteoarthritis. Its reputation as a safe and accessible drug has contributed to its extensive use, yet accumulating evidence challenges both its efficacy and safety profile. Pharmacological research highlights that paracetamol acts mainly through central mechanisms, offering analgesic and antipyretic effects without strong anti-inflammatory action. Clinical trials and systematic reviews indicate that, although paracetamol may provide modest pain relief in osteoarthritis of the knee and hip, its benefits in spinal pain are minimal and often indistinguishable from placebo. Extended-release formulations have shown some improvement in sustaining analgesia, but overall clinical outcomes remain limited. Safety remains an important concern, particularly due to hepatotoxicity associated with high doses or long-term use, leading to regulatory efforts to minimize risks. Despite these limitations, paracetamol continues to be valued for its affordability, tolerability, and role in patient-centered treatment strategies. This review critically examines the effectiveness and safety of paracetamol in spinal pain and osteoarthritis, highlighting the need for realistic expectations and further well-designed trials to clarify its therapeutic position.
The success of prosthetic rehabilitation depends on a comprehensive understanding of the anatomy and functional dynamics of the jaw and oral musculature. These structures play a vital role in mastication, speech, and mandibular stabilization, directly influencing denture retention, occlusal balance, and long-term oral health. This review explores the intricate relationship between muscles, bone, and prosthetic devices, emphasizing the biomechanical and functional factors essential for predictable treatment outcomes. The masticatory muscles, such as the masseter and temporalis, generate multidirectional forces that shape mandibular morphology and affect bone remodeling through constant mechanical stimulation. Factors such as diet consistency, occlusal loading, and clinical interventions like botulinum toxin injections can significantly alter muscular activity and bone integrity, impacting prosthetic stability. Reduced functional stimulation leads to muscle atrophy and accelerated bone resorption, while active mastication and balanced force distribution promote healthier adaptation of oral tissues. Furthermore, malocclusion and temporomandibular disorders complicate rehabilitation, requiring individualized treatment strategies. By integrating anatomical knowledge, biomechanical considerations, and patient-specific functional therapies, clinicians can design prosthetic solutions that optimize both esthetics and long-term performance. Future directions include the use of advanced digital technologies and biomaterials to enhance muscle-prosthesis interactions and maintain the structural integrity of the stomatognathic system.
Metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH) are now defined by clear metabolic criteria, with current approaches emphasizing fibrosis risk due to its impact on liver-related outcomes. Periodontitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease caused by dysbiotic subgingival biofilms and sustained by an exaggerated host response. This narrative review consolidates clinical and experimental evidence connecting periodontitis to MASLD/MASH through the oral–gut–liver axis. Epidemiologic studies frequently observe the co-occurrence of periodontitis and steatotic liver disease, and several cohorts indicate dose–response patterns when periodontal severity correlates with fibrosis-related liver outcomes like elastography or validated non-invasive fibrosis scores. However, these associations are inconsistent and tend to diminish when adjusting for strongly related factors such as obesity, diabetes, smoking intensity, diet, socioeconomic status, and healthcare utilization. Interpretation is also constrained by differing case definitions, various liver outcomes (such as imaging-detected steatosis, aminotransferases, fibrosis scores, elastography, biopsy), and possible reverse causality. Mechanistic plausibility is supported by several converging pathways: intermittent systemic spread of bacteria and microbial products (including LPS) from periodontal pockets; oral-to-gut microbial transmission causing ecological changes in the intestinal microbiome; intestinal barrier dysfunction leading to increased portal delivery of endotoxin and metabolites; and activation of hepatic innate immunity that enhances lipotoxic stress, oxidative injury, inflammasome signaling, and stellate-cell–mediated fibrogenesis. In obesity-prone models, induced periodontitis worsens steatotic liver phenotypes and highlights manageable targets such as TLR pathways and microbiota-dependent tryptophan–AHR signaling. Clinically, the most justified implication is integrated risk recognition rather than definitive causal claims. Dental teams can start metabolic evaluation and fibrosis risk assessment for high-risk patients, while hepatology and metabolic clinics can include brief oral screenings and periodontal referrals. Future priorities include standardizing phenotyping, conducting repeated-measure cohort studies, and running periodontal intervention trials with fibrosis-related endpoints. Using multi-omics and causal frameworks will be crucial for translating research into clinical practice.
The successful placement of dental implants in the posterior maxilla remains a clinical challenge, particularly in cases involving insufficient bone volume due to sinus pneumatization or crestal bone resorption. Recent advancements in digital planning and regenerative techniques have significantly improved predictability and outcomes. Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has emerged as an essential diagnostic tool, offering three-dimensional imaging critical for preoperative assessment and planning of bone augmentation procedures. Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR), when paired with CBCT, allows for precise localization of anatomical landmarks and defect morphology, thereby improving surgical accuracy and graft containment. Concurrently, the use of Concentrated Growth Factors (CGFs), derived from autologous blood, has been shown to enhance healing and bone maturation by promoting angiogenesis and osteogenic cell recruitment. This review aims to synthesize current literature on the synergistic application of CBCT-guided GBR and CGFs in the treatment of atrophic maxillary ridges, highlighting clinical protocols, regenerative outcomes, and long-term implant success. The integration of digital diagnostics and autologous biostimulation represents a paradigm shift toward minimally invasive and biologically optimized implantology.
Aim of the study: This study was designed to synthesize the available data on chromium status in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and to critically analyze the potential role of this trace element in oral and periodontal health. Materials and methods: A structured search was conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases (from March 2025 to November 2025), using combinations of keywords such as “type 1 diabetes”, “children”, “periodontal”, “oral health”, “chromium”, “trace elements”, “saliva”, and “gingival crevicular fluid”. Clinical and observational studies on periodontal status in children and adolescents with T1DM were included, as well as studies evaluating trace elements (including chromium) and oxidative-stress markers in pediatric T1DM, ionomic analyses of saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in periodontal disease, and review articles addressing the role of trace elements in oral biology. No clinical trials were identified in which chromium was administered to children with T1DM with assessment of periodontal parameters. Results: In most case–control and cross-sectional studies, children and adolescents with T1DM show higher dental plaque index values, increased gingival indices, more frequent bleeding on probing and a greater number of sites with clinical attachment loss compared with non-diabetic controls, with odds ratios for periodontitis approaching 3 in some cohorts. Oxidative-stress markers and periodontal indices are significantly higher in pediatric T1DM patients than in healthy children. Disturbances of trace-element homeostasis—especially of magnesium, zinc and chromium—have been documented in this patient group and correlate with metabolic control and oxidative-stress level. Ionomic analyses of saliva and GCF reveal differences in macro- and microelement profiles, including chromium, between periodontal health and periodontal disease. Mechanistic data support the involvement of chromium in insulin signalling and modulation of oxidative stress; however, there is currently no direct clinical evidence that chromium supplementation improves oral or periodontal parameters in children with T1DM. Conclusions: Current data support a possible, indirect and biologically plausible role of chromium within the complex network linking T1DM, oxidative stress and periodontal disease in children. At present, chromium should be regarded as a nutritional and metabolic co-factor rather than a specific therapeutic option for periodontal disease in children with T1DM. Prospective, well-controlled pediatric studies are needed to clarify whether optimization of chromium status can provide objective benefits for oral health.
Background: Cardiovascular disease and periodontitis commonly coexist, and cardiovascular pharmacotherapy may affect periodontal tissues and clinical indices, thereby influencing treatment planning. Objective: To synthesize clinically relevant associations between major cardiovascular medication classes and periodontal status and to translate these findings into practical considerations for periodontal care. Summary of evidence: Calcium channel blockers provide the most consistent signal, with a strong association with drug-induced gingival overgrowth. Enlargement can promote pseudo-pocketing, impair plaque control, and intensify gingival inflammation; expression is modified by local biofilm burden and supportive periodontal care. Statins show a plausible host-modulatory signal; observational studies and adjunctive trials report improvements in inflammatory parameters and, in selected settings, modest additional reductions in probing depth and clinical attachment gain, but heterogeneity and risk of bias limit certainty. Evidence for ACE inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers, and diuretics is limited and often mediated by xerostomia, frailty, and oral health behaviors. Antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy mainly affects bleeding-based indices; increased bleeding on probing does not necessarily indicate greater attachment loss. Polypharmacy can amplify xerostomia and complicate home care, while bleeding-based indices may be misleading without concurrent attachment and radiographic endpoints for assessment. Conclusions: Cardiovascular medications can alter periodontal presentation and complicate longitudinal monitoring. Medication-aware history taking (agent, dose, duration, combinations), interpretation anchored in attachment and bone measures, and tailored management of gingival overgrowth, bleeding risk, and xerostomia are recommended. Future research should apply standardized periodontal outcomes and detailed exposure definitions in longitudinal designs and, in pragmatic trials, evaluate whether optimized periodontal care in cardiovascular-medicated patients improves systemic inflammatory and vascular biomarkers.
Maxillary expansion, including rapid maxillary expansion (RME) and surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME), is an effective intervention for addressing airway obstruction and improving respiratory function. This systematic review evaluates the anatomical and functional impacts of maxillary expansion on airway health, with a focus on nasal cavity dimensions, airway resistance, and sleep-disordered breathing. Materials and Methods: A systematic review of studies published between 1970 and 2019 was conducted. Inclusion criteria targeted studies evaluating the effects of RME and SARME using advanced diagnostic tools such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), rhinomanometry, and polysomnography (PSG). Both pediatric and adult populations were analyzed to assess outcomes in nasal cavity expansion, reductions in airway resistance, and improvements in sleep-related breathing disorders.Results: Maxillary expansion significantly increased nasal cavity dimensions, with width increases ranging from 2.5 to 5.8 mm. Pediatric patients undergoing RME demonstrated a 28% increase in nasal volume and reduced nasal resistance by 30% to 45%, reflecting improved airflow. PSG results showed reductions in the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) by 50% to 70% in children and 30% to 50% in adults, alongside improved oxygen saturation levels. Longitudinal studies confirmed the stability of these outcomes, with minimal relapse observed over 1–3 years.Conclusion: Maxillary expansion effectively enhances nasal airflow, reduces airway resistance, and improves sleep-disordered breathing, particularly in pediatric populations. The integration of advanced imaging and functional assessments underscores its role as a multidisciplinary solution for respiratory dysfunctions. Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols and explore long-term outcomes, particularly in adult populations.
Aim of the study The aim of this study was to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, perceived risks, and preventive practices related to topical fluoride use among young adults. Materials and methods A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted on a sample of 87 young adults. The questionnaire assessed self-perceived oral health, oral hygiene habits, use of fluoride-containing products (toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss, additional fluoride products), professional fluoride application, and perceptions regarding fluoride benefits, concentration, and potential toxicity. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were applied, with the level of statistical significance set at p 0.05. Results Most participants reported good self-perceived oral health (85.1%), while nearly half (49.4%) reported no new carious lesions during the previous year. Fluoride toothpaste use was common (77.0%); however, professional recommendation played a limited role in product selection. Knowledge regarding fluoride type and concentration was limited, and preventive behaviors were frequently guided by personal preference or brand choice. Adjunctive fluoride measures and professionally applied topical fluoride were underutilized. No statistically significant differences were observed according to sex (p > 0.05), and the null hypothesis was not rejected. Conclusions Although fluoride toothpaste use was widespread, gaps in knowledge and suboptimal preventive practices persist among young adults. Targeted educational interventions and increased professional guidance are necessary to optimize caries prevention strategies in this population.
Aim of the study. Our study aimed to compare the fracture resistance and mechanical behavior under axial compression of artificial teeth manufactured using conventional prefabrication, CAD/CAM milling, and three-dimensional printing techniques. Materials and methods. An in vitro study was performed on four groups of maxillary first molar artificial teeth (n = 10), produced by conventional, CAD/CAM, and 3D printing techniques. All specimens were standardized and subjected to axial compression using a universal testing machine at a constant crosshead speed until fracture. Results. CAD/CAM-milled PMMA teeth showed the highest stiffness and fracture resistance under axial compression. Conventionally prefabricated teeth exhibited intermediate mechanical behavior with greater deformation prior to failure, while 3D-printed specimens demonstrated the lowest resistance and predominantly brittle fracture patterns. Conclusions. The technique used for tooth fabrication plays a decisive role in determining mechanical integrity under compressive loading. Teeth produced by subtractive digital workflows show the most favorable resistance profile for demanding functional conditions, whereas conventionally manufactured specimens maintain acceptable performance in standard prosthetic indications. Additively manufactured teeth exhibit inferior resistance characteristics, limiting their current applicability to provisional or low-stress clinical situations.
The cephalic index (CI), a simple measurement of the ratio between the width and length of the skull, played a central role in the dark history of scientific racism. Popularized in the 19th and 20th centuries by physical anthropologists such as Anders Retzius, it was promoted as an “objective” tool for classifying human “races” and justifying social hierarchies. Through interdisciplinary analysis (anthropological, genetic, neurological, and philosophical), this article demonstrates that CI has been completely discredited by modern science as a taxonomic marker. Contemporary evidence shows that cranial variation is a continuum influenced by developmental plasticity, ecological factors, and migration, with no correlation to cognitive abilities or human value. Its story serves as a fundamental warning against the hijacking of science by dangerous ideologies.
Aim of the study Oral health during pregnancy is essential for maternal and fetal outcomes; however, disparities in oral health knowledge and hygiene practices may exist between rural and urban populations. To assess oral health awareness, knowledge, and hygiene behaviors among pregnant women and to identify rural–urban differences. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 49 pregnant women hospitalized in obstetrics and gynecology units. Data were collected using a 30-item structured questionnaire addressing oral health knowledge, practices, dietary habits, and access to dental care. Comparisons between rural and urban participants were performed using Fisher’s exact test (p 0.05). Results: Although awareness of the importance of oral health during pregnancy was high in both groups, urban women reported significantly higher use of dentist-recommended brushing techniques (79.2% vs. 24.0%, p 0.001), dental floss (45.8% vs. 8.0%, p = 0.004), and better self-perceived oral hygiene (91.7% vs. 48.0%, p = 0.001). Rural participants showed lower dental service utilization despite high awareness levels. Pregnancy-related nausea negatively affected oral hygiene routines in both groups. Conclusions: Despite high awareness, significant gaps between knowledge and practice persist, particularly among rural pregnant women, highlighting the need for integrated oral health education within prenatal care.
Aim of the study Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition frequently encountered in young individuals and often underestimated in its early stages. Adequate oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and awareness of periodontal risk factors are essential for prevention. This study aimed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and preventive behaviors related to periodontal disease among young adults and to analyze their association with individual periodontal risk factors. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between March and June 2023 on 145 participants aged 18–22 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising 26 closed-ended questions addressing oral hygiene practices, dental attendance, recognition of periodontal disease signs, and awareness of behavioral and systemic risk factors. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and Pearson’s chi-square test (p ≤ 0.05). Results: Regular dental visits were considered very important by 65.5% of participants, although only 10.3% reported very frequent attendance. Toothbrushing was regarded as extremely important by 72.0% of respondents, while 69.7% used adjunctive oral hygiene aids, but only 20.7% did so consistently. Signs of periodontal disease were very well known by 33.1% of participants. Smoking was identified as a major periodontal risk factor by 66.2%, although 32.4% were smokers. Significant associations were found between smoking and tooth mobility (p = 0.046) and between preventive behaviors and dental attendance (p 0.001). Conclusions: Despite generally positive attitudes, notable gaps persist in preventive behaviors and risk awareness, underscoring the need for targeted periodontal education among young adults.
