Background: While not directly inhaling tobacco smoke, non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke (SHS) are not spared of its harmful effects. Individuals who live with smokers or spend significant time in smoke-filled environments are at a higher risk of experiencing negative health effects from SHS compared to occasional exposure. Objective: To assess the awareness and correlates of exposure to second hand tobacco smoke among young adults in Thiruvalla, Kerala. Methodology: An observational study was conducted among young adults aged between 18 and 30 years in Pathanamthitta district from July to December 2023. The data was analyzed using the IBM statistical package for social sciences version 20. The results have been presented as tables and charts showing percentages. Chi-square test and odds ratio were used for analyzing the association between the study variables and SHS knowledge among the study participants. Results: Out of the 300 study participants, 258 had a good knowledge regarding secondhand smoke. Majority of study participants reported that they were exposed to second hand smoke in public places (90%). Educational status, Smoking status and place of exposure to SHS were found to be associated with SHS knowledge among the study participants in the present study. Conclusion: Passive smoking remains a significant threat to the health of non-smokers. Addressing the gaps in knowledge about the dangers of SHS is crucial for effective public health interventions.
Background: The practice of self-medication is common in many parts of the world and can have serious health consequences if not done responsibly. It can lead to drug interactions, addiction, overdose, and other negative health consequences. Some drugs that are commonly used for self-medication, such as prescription opioids or benzodiazepines, can be highly addictive and can lead to dependence and other health problems. Objective: To study the prevailing pattern of self-medication among adults in Thiruvalla area of Pathanamthitta district. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted among 240 adults of both genders in Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta district, Central Kerala from October 2022 to January 2023. The sample size was calculated using prevalence of self-medication (81.77%) from a similar study. The data was analyzed using the IBM statistical package for social sciences version 21. The results have been presented as tables and charts showing percentages and proportions. A Chi-square test was used for analyzing the association between demographic variables and the practice of self-medication. Results: Out of 240 study participants, 60 % had self-medicated during the last three months. Majority of study participants (42%) self-medicated by naming the drug at their local pharmacy. The present study found that education of the higher order was a risk factor for the practice of self-medication among study participants. Conclusion: A holistic approach involving regulations for pharmacies in dispensing drugs against postdated, unauthorized, incomplete prescriptions and awareness sessions on the implications of self-medication may be helpful in curbing the escalation of the habit of self-medication among the general public.
Context: Pericoronitis is the soft-tissue inflammation surrounding the dental crown in a semi-erupted lower third molar. Patients with early-stage pericoronitis experience discomfort, redness, swelling, mucosal ulceration, and loss of function. There is a dearth of evidence-based, standardized treatments for pericoronitis. Aim: This trial attempted to explore the efficacy of Cheiranthus cheiri (CC) 30 cH against placebos in the treatment of pericoronitis by detecting group differences in pain on the visual analog scale (VAS) over 14 days of intervention. Subsequently, molecular docking of CC was performed to predict the binding affinity of ligands to receptor proteins. Materials and Methods: A 14-day, double-blind, randomized (2:1), placebo-controlled trial was undertaken at the Dental Outpatient Department of D. N. De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital. Sixty participants with pericoronitis were randomized to receive either CC 30 cH 12 doses (n = 40) or identical-looking placebos (n = 20). All the participants were instructed to gurgle with warm saline water 2–3 times a day. The primary outcome measure was the time (days) to resolution of pain, measured using 100 mm VASs, from baseline up to 14 days. Secondary outcome measures included time (days) to the resolution of swelling and trismus, measured up to 14 days; blood erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and total leukocyte count; and the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 questionnaire, measured at baseline and after 14 days. The intention-to-treat sample was analyzed; Kaplan–Meier analysis and Welch t-tests of unequal variances were run to detect group differences. The results of molecular docking were examined using Biovia’s Discovery Studio Visualizer. Results: Days to resolution of pain were significantly less in the treatment group than placebo (Mantel-Cox log-rank test: P =0.042). Similar significant results were also obtained in the resolution of swelling (P = 0.007) and trismus (P = 0.014) favoring CC 30cH against placebos; however, no differences were demonstrated in the other secondary outcomes. During molecular docking, all of the bioactive components of CC reacted with tumor necrosis factor-α, proving and verifying its anti-inflammatory potential. Conclusion: CC 30 cH produced significant treatment benefits by resolving pain, swelling, and trismus of pericoronitis earlier than placebos. Larger trials are warranted to substantiate the findings. Trial registration: CTRI/2023/04/051254; UTN: U1111-1289-9815.
Objectives: Both conventional cigarette use and e-cigarette/vape use appear to have detrimental effects on oral health by promoting the development of both dental caries and periodontal disease. This study aimed to compare the effects of the two with regard to dental caries risk level. Methods: A cross-sectional study on patient records was conducted. One thousand and two hundred fifty-one patients who attended the dental school clinics and met the inclusion criteria were included. The Kruskal–Wallis test and multivariable ordinal logistic regression were used to compare the e-cigarette/vaping only, conventional cigarette use only, and dual e-cigarette/vaping, and conventional cigarette use groups in terms of caries risk. Results: A total of 1251 patient records met the inclusion criteria. There were 130 reported active users of e-cigarettes/vapes, 1094 active users of conventional cigarettes, and 27 active users of both e-cigarettes/vapes and conventional cigarettes. The Kruskal–Wallis test showed no statistically significant difference between caries risk levels among the three groups with 88.9% of the dual smokers (both conventional and e-cigarettes/vapes), 83.1% of the e-cigarette/vape-only users, and 82.5% of the conventional cigarette-only smokers being placed in the high/extreme caries risk category (P = 0.693). The comparison was also not significant (P = 0.719) when adjusting for age and gender. Conclusion: Although the percentage of patients in the high/extreme caries risk category was highest in the dual smokers’ group, followed by the vaping/e-cigarette use group, and finally the conventional cigarette group, there was no statistically significant evidence of a difference between these groups.
Background: Academic procrastination involves putting off tasks such as studying for exams, writing papers, or completing assignments until the last possible moment. It is a common challenge faced by many students and can significantly impact their academic performance and overall well-being. Several factors contribute to academic procrastination, including poor time management skills, lack of motivation or interest in the subject matter, fear of failure, perfectionism, difficulty concentrating, and feeling overwhelmed by the workload. In recent years, the promotion of a student's overall well-being has been one of the most important topics in education. Objective: To assess to identify the prevalence of academic procrastination and its correlates among medical students in central Kerala. Materials and Methods: The present cross sectional study was conducted among medical students of both genders in Pathanamthitta district, Central Kerala from October 2022 to December 2022. The data was analyzed using the IBM statistical package for social sciences version 20. The results have been presented as tables and charts showing percentages. Chi-square test and odds ratio were used for analyzing the association between demographic variables and academic procrastination among the study participants. Results: The mean Academic Procrastination among the study participants was 79.59 + 14.8. The prevalence of mild (score less than 50), moderate (score between 50 and 75) and high (score higher than 76) academic procrastination was 3.1%, 39.3%, and 57.5% respectively. Gender of the study participants, long deadlines, distractions, peer influences were some of the factors found to be positively associated with academic procrastination. Conclusion: The present study reveals a high prevalence of academic procrastination among medical students in Pathanamthitta district. A notable finding in the study is that many of the variables that have emerged as risk factors of academic procrastination among study participants are modifiable.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the transmasseteric anteroparotid (TMAP) approach for surgically managing mandibular subcondylar fractures and to compare its outcomes with those of the conventional retromandibular transparotid (RMTP) approach. Methodology: Sixteen cases with subcondylar fractures were treated using two different approaches. Parameters were evaluated and recorded after 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months with the same device and settings. The parameters evaluated were facial nerve function, parotid gland-related complications (sialoceles), interincisal mouth opening assessment, and occlusal stability. Intergroup comparison between the two groups for different parameters was done using unpaired t-test. Results: Out of the 16 patients, 93.75% were male, and 7.25% were female. The assignment of groups was random, with Group A subjected to the RMTP approach, and Group B opting for the TMAP approach. Notably, there were significant differences (P < 0.05) in facial nerve function observed when comparing Group A to Group B. Conclusion: The retromandibular TMAP approach, as outlined in this study, demonstrates significant benefits, providing increased access with fewer complications and lower morbidity compared to the RMTP approach.
Magnets have been used in dentistry for many years. The force they deliver can be directed, and they can exert their force through mucosa and bone, as well as within the mouth. In orthodontics, they are used for intrusion of teeth, tooth movement along arch wires, expansion, retention, functional appliances, and the treatment of impacted teeth. There are various types of magnets used in the field of orthodontics with their advantages and disadvantages, along with their biological safety which has been discussed in this article. This article reviews various uses of magnets in the field of orthodontics.
Introduction: Oral health is vital for overall well-being. As oral health educators, school teachers have successfully improved students’ oral health. The World Health Organization endorses “Health-promoting schools” to create a healthy environment for living, learning, and working. The study assesses government school teachers’ knowledge and perceived roles as oral health educators in the Tirupur district. Methodology: A 3-month observational study was conducted among 507 government school teachers of the Tirupur district using a pretested questionnaire. The schools were randomly selected, and all the school teachers of the selected schools participated in the study after obtaining a consent form. Each teacher was approached individually by the investigator; questionnaires were distributed and collected back on the same day. Results: School teachers have 60% knowledge about periodontal disease and 42.4% about fluoride. About 96.8% of teachers suggested that awareness dental camps and workshops could be organized and that unhealthy foods should be banned near schools. School teachers like to play passive roles in oral health education, and there is a high agreement rate (91.7%) to integrate oral health topics with subjects taught in classrooms. Conclusion: School teachers can be trained in oral hygiene so that they disseminate information to future society. This may encourage them to maintain good oral hygiene and reduce the incidence of oral diseases by using dental services.
Jaw tumors and cysts are uncommon jaw or mouth abnormalities. Dental cysts, known as radicular cysts, typically occur in the gums, tooth roots, molars, wisdom teeth, jawbone, or sinuses. These cysts can lead to infection and symptoms may arise at a later stage. They can also develop near impacted wisdom teeth, dental roots, or soft tissues in the mouth due to injury. Surgery is typically required to alleviate pain and prevent complications. This case report details the successful surgical removal of a radicular cyst in a Syrian patient’s upper jaw. The patient presented with a persistent swelling in the front of his upper jaw that did not respond to drug therapy. An X-ray revealed a significant lesion involving the canine and quadriceps area. Following endodontic treatment, surgery was performed to excise the lesion, trim the affected teeth, and suture the surgical site. Pathological analysis confirmed the cyst was an older radicular cyst. This case underscores the significance of accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and surgical intervention for managing similar cases. The patient had a persistent upper jaw swelling despite previous treatment. X-rays and examinations confirmed an abnormality. Endodontic treatment and surgery successfully removed the abnormality. Laboratory testing confirmed it as an older radicular cyst. This study highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis, collaboration, and thorough planning for successful outcomes in similar cases.
Introduction: The aim and objectives of this study were to assess the morphology and dimensions of the mandibular symphysis (MS) in different antero-posterior (AP) skeletal jaw relationships and to assess if the alveolar part of MS compensates for the skeletal relationship in the Himachali population. Materials and Methods: The study sample consisted of pretreatment lateral cephalograms of 90 subjects (mean age 12 ± 4) who were referred to the department for orthodontic treatment. The study subjects were of Himachali ethnic origin, residents of Himachal Pradesh from the last three generations. The subjects were divided into three groups of 30 each according to their skeletal AP jaw relationship (Class I, Class II, or Class III relationship). Class I skeletal relationship was considered when A point, nasion, B point (ANB) angle 3 ± 1, Class II skeletal relationship was considered when ANB angle was >4, and Class III skeletal relationship was considered when ANB angle was <2°. Results: In linear measurements Id-B and Pog-Me showed highest value for Class III subjects, but the differences were statistically nonsignificant. In angular measurements, Class III subjects showed larger B-B1-Gn angle (vertical dimension of MS) than Class I and Class II subjects and the differences between three groups were statistically significant. The inclination of the alveolar part was significantly larger in Class III shown by a small Id-B/Md angle. Inclination of the skeletal part showed statistically nonsignificant difference between the three groups. Conclusions: The Class III skeletal jaw relationship exhibited an increase in the vertical dimension, a less concavity of anterior contour of symphysis, more inclination of the alveolar part toward the mandibular plane than other sagittal relationships suggesting compensation for the skeletal pattern of the jaws.
Clear aligners seem to be a new modality for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment; the initial concept of this treatment evolved in the 20th century. Remensnyder’s “Flex-O-Tite” appliance led to the introduction of the aligner, from this Kesling tooth positioner appliance made up of rubber-based 1945 proposed the concept of using it for minor tooth movements in a sequential series. The purpose of this article is to provide information about the chronologically ordered evolution of aligners. Various types of generations and attachments are used in different aligner systems. An online search was done using databases from PubMed and Google Scholar to find the articles. Database search was done with the following string: ((aligners [Title/Abstract]) AND (comparison [Title/Abstract])) AND (((fixed appliance [Title/Abstract]) OR (braces [Title/Abstract])) OR (fixed orthodontic appliance [Title/Abstract])). Three articles are included in the narrative review to evaluate the better outcomes of the treatment effectiveness between fixed orthodontic treatment and aligners with a short summary of chronologically ordered evolution, generations, and attachments of aligners. The overall effectiveness of orthodontic treatment depends upon the knowledge of the clinician, therefore, knowledge about recent advances is important for proper treatment of the patient.
Spousal members who share no genetic relatedness show similar oral microbiomes. Whether a shared microbiome increases the risk of periodontal disease is challenging to investigate. The presence of periodontitis in one member of the couple is a strong indicator of risk for the colonization of the spouse by periodontophatic bacteria. Periodontal disease can be transmitted, suggesting the importance of early detection of oral pathogens in the familial pattern of periodontitis to clarify the source of infection and to assess correct prevention protocols based on potential infectivity within spouses. Recent findings suggest that two major periodontal pathogenes, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, are transmitted among family members.
This integrative review assessed the efficacy of 5% fluoride varnish (FV) and 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in preventing and treating caries in children and deciduous teeth, particularly in public health and socioeconomically disadvantaged settings. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar databases based on their relevance in evaluating the effectiveness of FV and SDF against caries in deciduous teeth. Joanna Briggs Institute’s Critical Appraisal Tools were employed to select the studies. Some studies showed no significant differences in efficacy between FV and SDF, suggesting that both could be equally effective, depending on the clinical scenario. Other studies have highlighted SDF’s superior performance of SDF in arresting caries in dentin and advanced decay and its antibacterial properties, while FV seems to be particularly effective in enamel remineralization during the early stages of caries. Both FV and SDF are effective in managing caries in children and deciduous teeth and offer significant benefits in the public health context by providing minimally invasive and cost-effective treatment options. The choice between FV and SDF should be tailored to the severity of caries and the specific needs of the child, ensuring that interventions are both practical and accessible, especially for the most vulnerable.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is the intelligence of the machine and the branch of computer science that enables its creation. The technology enables a machine to simulate human behaviors and perform complex tasks. With the advent of technologies, the application of AI has been implemented in our day-to-day life in our phones, cars, and games. In recent years, AI has been impregnated in the field of dentistry and is one of the soaring technologies in the field of dental radiography. This review article illustrates the development and application of AI in dentistry and dental radiography.
Nanotechnology is a multidisciplinary field that involves the manipulation and control of matter at the nanoscale, typically ranging from 1 to 100 nm. Nanomedicine integrates nanotechnology with medicine to develop novel approaches for targeted drug delivery, imaging, sensing, and regenerative medicine. By utilizing nanoparticles and nanostructures, scientists and researchers are able to enhance the efficacy and specificity of therapeutics, improve diagnostic capabilities, and revolutionize healthcare. Nanodentistry utilizes nanoparticles and nanodevices for targeted drug delivery, continuous oral health maintenance, and preventive and restorative dentistry. This article is an overview that highlights the role of nanotechnology in dentistry.
Introduction: The protection and efficacy of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic have been well-documented. COVID-19 is spread by respiratory droplets, and dental professionals are mandatory to wear masks for protection. Post-COVID, it is new normal to wear a face mask in day-to-day life. Objective: It was a cross-sectional study conducted among dental professionals at Vivekananda Dental College for Women. We sought to evaluate the impact of masks on health-care workers and their arterial saturation during periods of active clinical hours. Methodology: A self-constructed pretested questionnaire of 16 queries regarding the effects of prolonged use of masks, after being analyzed by the experts of our institution, was used. People who are all dentists by profession can participate in this study. All the collected information was sent for statistical analysis. Results: The result obtained shows that the majority were using surgical reusable masks, without proper maintenance and disposal, with associated discomfort and breathlessness after wearing them for 6 h a day. While comparing the individual’s oxygen saturation levels, <95 saturation was highly correlated with N95 mask wearers, using more than 6 h/day. Conclusion: Since face masks are part of the new normal world, certain strategies can be followed to reduce the discomfort by prolonged usage such as nasal breathing, taking short breaks from wearing masks in a safe environment, and maintaining proper hydration.
Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze new bone formed after indirect sinus lift using Densah bur at 6 months and 1 year postoperatively. Materials and Methods: This study is a randomized control trial. Fifteen patients with edentulous deficient posterior maxilla were recruited for the surgery by osseodensification (OD) technique. This study enrolled healthy adults aged 18 and older, with good oral health, who required one or more dental implants in the posterior maxilla to support fixed rehabilitations such as single crowns or fixed partial prostheses. Inclusion criteria comprised individuals with sufficient buccopalatal width, a minimum of 3.5 mm residual bone height at the intended edentulous area, and an absence of diagnosed bone diseases or medications known to impact bone metabolism. Periotest was used for analysis. Results: At preoperative, residual bone height was only 5.65 (1.87) mm which increased to 12.13 (0.87) mm at postoperative immediate levels, and remained stable at 11.97 (0.85) mm at 6 months postoperative and at 11.4 (0.8) mm at 1-year postoperative. On overall comparison of bone measurements at different time intervals using repeated measures analysis of variance F-test, there was found to be highly statistically significant (P < 0.001) difference among overall comparison in relation to bone height. Conclusion: For the treatment of low-density edentulous areas, especially in individuals with osteoporosis, the OD technique involving the reversal of drilling direction is a reliable and straightforward method that does not necessitate specialized equipment.
Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Vitamin E and C application on healing after the gingival depigmentation (GD) procedure. Materials and Methods: A split-mouth study was planned for subjects with gingival melanin hyperpigmentation in maxillary and/or mandibular arches. Each site was randomly divided into two groups. The scalpel surgical technique for depigmentation was performed under local anesthesia. After the depigmentation procedure, Vitamin E was applied in Group 1, and Vitamin C was applied in Group 2. The healing index and Visual Analog Scale scores for pain were recorded on the 15th day and the 45th day postoperatively. Results: There was a statistically significant reduction in Visual Analog Scale scores and improvement in healing in both groups on the 15th day. Subjects in the Vitamin E showed better healing and reduced pain on the 15th day as compared to Vitamin C, but at the 45th day, there was no significant difference in both groups. Conclusion: Subjects would show faster healing with the use of Vitamin E application after the surgical procedure of GD.
Abstract Background: The thermal changes environment is a parameter that affects the dental mechanical and esthetic behavior of materials. Dental materials placed in the human oral environment are inevitably exposed to thermal changes environments during chewing movement and hot or cold fluids. Aim: Therefore, this study aims to analyze the surface behavior of a dental material placed in the human mouth in thermal changes according to the finite element method. Materials and Methods: Cylindrical titanium alloy samples with a diameter of 12 mm were prepared for thermal shock load simulation. Withinthe scope of this study, the samples were divided into two equal groups. While the first group test samples were subjected to thermal shock experiments, the others were determined as the control group. The surface temperature distributions of the samples in the test procedures were analyzed and evaluations were made on the wear behavior of the materials. Results: The temperature distributions showed density on the material surface and it was analyzed that a temperature transfer took place toward the inside of the material. Conclusion: This result is evaluated as behavior that reduces the wear resistance since it directly affects the contact surface in the two-body (direct-contact) wear mechanism.
The early initiation of tobacco use by the youth is the basis to advocate for the tobacco-free generation (TFG). The basis is to prevent the sale and supply of tobacco to individuals born after a certain year or after a specified year. This cohort approach on educating the generations to be tobacco-free was first conceived by an Australian Mathematician Jon Berrick. This is based on the concept of rite of passage that connects smoking to adulthood and encourages youth approaching that age of smoking. Education and awareness would certainly empower the younger generation to never ever use tobacco. The TFG models have been replicated in Singapore within the set time-bound goals. An integrated and common risk approach with effective compliance and enforcement remains the single best approach in prevention, so is the concept of TFG which also works well with other tobacco control measures through its optimal integration. With this background, we aim to review the concept of TFG toward the endgame of tobacco among the youth to eliminate this existing epidemic. Furthermore, it hopes to provide a deeper understanding about the best practices in the implementation, enforcement, and various challenges associated with compliance of this proposal in various regions of the world toward the endgame.
