Pediatric Dentistry Research Articles

Current Status of Cooperation System Between Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in Kyushu Dental University Hospital

Current Status of Cooperation System Between Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in Kyushu Dental University Hospital

Introducing the Index of Caries Risk (ICR): A Comparative Study on a Novel Tool for Caries Risk Assessment in Pediatric Patients.

Background: The prevalence of dental caries presents a global public challenge, particularly in children. Traditional caries risk assessment tools like Cariogram are effective but often complex and resource intensive. The aim of the present study was to introduce, for the first time, a newly designed caries risk assessment (CRA) tool named Index of Caries Risk (ICR) and to evaluate its efficacy for pediatric patients. Methods: This observational study was conducted at the University Hospital of Siena (Italy), involving 55 children aged 6 to 12 years. Participants were assessed using both the newly developed ICR and the well-known Cariogram tool. The data were collected by two calibrated operators. The ICR was compared with the Cariogram tool, and a descriptive analysis and a Pearson correlation coefficient were performed. Results: Results indicated a strong positive correlation (R = 0.88, p < 0.01) between the two methods, with ICR simplifying the assessment process while maintaining efficacy. Conclusions: This study highlights the ICR's potential to provide a practical, cost-effective alternative for routine caries risk assessment in pediatric dentistry. Despite its limitations, this research marks a preliminary investigation of a promising new CRA tool. Further research should focus on validating the ICR in the larger and more diverse pediatric population, as well as exploring its long-term effectiveness and its application in different clinical settings.

Correlations of teleroentgenometric indicators according to the Steiner method with the dimensions of teeth and dental arches in young men and young women with a physiological bite without taking into account the type of face

Annotation. The importance of teleradiographic indicators in the diagnosis and planning of orthodontic treatment is difficult to overestimate, but their relationship with the size of teeth and dental arches in different age and sex groups remains insufficiently studied. This is especially relevant for the Ukrainian population, where individual anatomical features can affect the effectiveness of orthodontic interventions, which makes the study of such relationships important for improving approaches to diagnosis and treatment. The purpose of the study is to establish the specifics of correlations between teleroentgenometric parameters according to the Steiner method with the dimensions of teeth and dental arches in Ukrainian young men and young women with a physiological bite. A morphometric study of the teeth and dental arches was carried out, and teleroentgenometric indicators were determined using the Steiner method from the primary computer tomograms of 41 Ukrainian young men (aged 17 to 21) and 68 Ukrainian young women (aged 16 to 20), which were obtained from data bank of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Research Center of the National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, Vinnytsya. The evaluation of correlations between teleroentgenometric indicators according to the Steiner method and computed tomographic dimensions of teeth and dental arches was carried out in the license package “Statistica 6.0” using Spearman's non-parametric statistics. As a result of the analysis of the reliable and average strength of unreliable correlations between teleroentgenometric parameters according to the Steiner method with the sizes of teeth and dental arches, it was established: in young men – 5.71 % of similar relationships with the sizes of the teeth of the upper jaw (mostly reliable straight lines of average strength with the sizes of incisors and canines), only 1.79 % with the dimensions of the teeth of the lower jaw and 6.60 % with the dimensions of the dental arches (mainly reliable straight and reverse of medium strength with distances characterizing the position of canines and first premolars relative to the hard palate, as well as the distance between the crowns of the central incisors and the line that connects the molars of the upper jaw); in young women – 4.82 % of similar relationships with the dimensions of the teeth of the upper jaw (mostly reliable straight lines of weak force with the dimensions of canines), 5.00 % with the dimensions of the teeth of the lower jaw (mostly reliable straight lines of weak force with the dimensions of incisors), 14.58 % with the dimensions of dental arches (mainly reliable direct and reverse medium strength with the distances between the crowns of the central incisors and the line connecting the canines, the first premolars and molars of the upper jaw, as well as the distances between the distal and medial roots of the lower first molars). Thus, in Ukrainian young men and young women with a physiological bite, the peculiarities and gender differences of the correlations between teleroentgenometric indicators according to the Steiner method and computed tomographic dimensions of teeth and dental arches were established.

Little grinder, big concern - a questionnaire survey

Background: Bruxism in paediatric dentistry refers to the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth in children. This condition can manifest during the day or night and may have various underlying causes. Bruxism has multifactorial etiology including disturbed sleep cycle and excessive gadget use in children. Present study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of parents about bruxism in children who visited the department. Bruxism is a common concern in paediatric dentistry, presenting challenges for dental professionals and parents alike in managing and addressing its effects on a child's oral health. Methods: The study was conducted among the parents visiting the Department with their children for the treatment. A self-administered questionnaire about knowledge and awareness regarding bruxism habit, sleep cycle, and gadget use in children was made. It was shared with parents using E-methods. Data was collected and statistical analysis was done. Results: In this study, parents stated that 74.1% of children grind their teeth, and 63% of children did so while using the device. Children most frequently utilized mobile devices (51.9%), then TV (13%), electronic toys and video games (11.10%), laptops/PCs and tablets (6.50%). Before falling asleep, 81.50% of the kids used their gadgets, and after using them, 60.20% of the kids reported having trouble sleeping. Conclusions: According to this study, children who clench their teeth have disrupted sleep, and clenching of teeth is more common in children who experience stress as a result of prolonged use of gadgets. Thus, a significant relationship was seen between children's use of gadgets, sleep disruption, and bruxism.

Psychometric Properties of Telugu Version of Scale of Oral Health Outcomes for 5-year-old Children.

Only a finite number of standard oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) measures are available for young children. However, instead of using parents as proxies to report a child's oral health status, children's self-reported oral health measures would be more accurate in providing their own perceptions of oral impacts. The study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Telugu version of the scale of oral health outcomes (SOHO-5T) for 5-year-old children in Telangana. The forward-backward translated SOHO-5T was pilot-tested among thirty children. The tested questionnaire was administered to 419 children, followed by a clinical oral examination using dentition status to evaluate dental caries (DC). Children (n = 30) were readministered the same questionnaire after a 2-week interval to test reliability. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were determined by Cronbach's α and intraclass correlation. Correlation with global ratings of oral health questions was done to assess construct validity. Discriminant validity was evaluated based on the presence or absence of DC. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The mean SOHO-5T score was 4.70, and the mean decayed teeth score was 2.48, with 49.16% of children having DC. Cronbach's α scores and the intraclass correlation (ICC) coefficient for overall SOHO-5T were 0.90 and 0.91, respectively. SOHO-5T also demonstrated good construct validity with a significant positive correlation with global ratings of oral health. SOHO-5T showed good discrimination between the presence (9.43 ± 3.10), or absence (0.14 ± 1.01) of DC. This study shows good internal consistency and test-retest reliability. It also exhibited good construct and discriminant validity. Meghana D, Sukhabogi JR, Doshi D, et al. Psychometric Properties of Telugu Version of Scale of Oral Health Outcomes for 5-year-old Children. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):933-937.

Jeet Wheel Scale: A Novel Tool for Evaluation of Dental Anxiety in Children.

One of the major concerns of the current era is dental anxiety in Pediatric Dentistry. Kids are very well adapted to emojis or emoticons nowadays, and they represent emotions or moods better than a cartoon picture. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate a newly designed anxiety rating scale. The Jeet Wheel Scale (JWS) uses emoticons and colors to assess the anxiety or mood of the child during the first visit of the child. The aim was to establish the novel anxiety rating scale and compare it with the Venham Picture Test (VPT) and Facial Image Scale (FIS). The study included 100 healthy children aged 4-8 years, and their dental anxiety was assessed using the JWS, VPT, and FIS at their first dental appointment, along with their scale preference. The mean and standard deviation of anxiety scores measured using the FIS, VPT, and JWS were 1.67 ± 0.88, 1.99 ± 1.17, and 2.79 ± 1.35, respectively. Among the scales used, a significant difference was observed. A strong correlation was observed with the Pearson correlation test. The results indicated a strong correlation (0.863) between the JWS and VPT, and a strong correlation (0.802) between the JWS and the FIS. Based on the above observations, it could be confirmed that the JWS has high validity. Children preferred the JWS over the other two established scales. The JWS was found to be more efficient for assessing dental anxiety in children. Chakraborty S, Jana S, Dey B, et al. Jeet Wheel Scale: A Novel Tool for Evaluation of Dental Anxiety in Children. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):898-902.

Pertinence of Five Different Regression Equations of Mixed Dentition Analysis in West Godavari District Children: A Comparative Study.

The orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning are the fundamental goals during the mixed dentition period. Numerous methods have been proposed to date. The study was designed to determine the mesiodistal (MD) widths of the lower permanent canines and premolars from Tanaka and Johnston, regression equation (RE) proposed for north Indian population (RE-NIP), Bernabé and Flores-Mir C, Moyers', and Ling and Wong mixed dentition analysis (MDA) and to determine the correlation coefficients for the Eluru population. The study population was selected using cluster random sampling. A total of 3,572 children were clinically examined from the Outpatient Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, St Joseph Dental College and Hospital, Eluru district, Andhra Pradesh. Out of these, 140 children aged 11-16 years were randomly selected for the study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The MD width of permanent incisors, canines, premolars, and molars was measured with the help of a digital vernier caliper; summed up and compared with the above-mentioned REs. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS version 22, employing Student's t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Kruskal-Wallis test. The RE-NIP underestimated the values, whereas the remaining equations overestimated the sum of permanent canines and premolars in both arches in the study population. The predicted values obtained from the abovementioned methods overestimated the actual values, and a new RE for the Eluru population should be suggested to better represent the size of unerupted canines and premolars. Measuring the MD widths of the upper and lower permanent incisors and molars during the mixed dentition period from different REs will help a pedodontist in proper treatment planning to predict the MD width of unerupted canines and premolars. Kanaparthi S, Done V, P Madu GS, et al. Pertinence of Five Different Regression Equations of Mixed Dentition Analysis in West Godavari District Children: A Comparative Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):871-876.

Relationship between Maternal Prenatal Vitamin D Status and Early Childhood Caries in Their Children: A Cross-sectional Survey.

Vitamin D deficiency in expectant mothers is very common in India. As a consequence, the possibility of hypoplasia of teeth and resultant propensity for faster progression of early childhood caries (ECC) is expected to be higher in Indian children. This study aimed to determine the relationship between prenatal vitamin D intake of mothers and dental caries experience in their preschool children, and whether vitamin D deficiency in mothers could be a risk factor for tooth decay in their children. This cross-sectional study included 120 mothers of children aged up to 71 months with dental caries attending the Department of Pediatric Dentistry in India. Mothers were surveyed about their prenatal vitamin D intake and their practices regarding vitamin D and sunlight exposure. Children were clinically examined, and their caries status was recorded using the decayed, extracted, filled teeth (deft) index. Data were analyzed descriptively and correlated using an independent t-test. Binary logistic regression was employed to predict the effects of the duration of sun exposure and vitamin D deficiency on dental decay. The correlation of mothers' prenatal vitamin D intake was significantly associated weekly with children's caries experience. Their sun exposure (p = 0.002) and practices adopted (p = 0.0001) regarding vitamin D levels were statistically significant for children's caries status. Improper brushing frequency was also significantly associated with higher deft scores. The association between mothers' prenatal vitamin D intake and health practices related to vitamin D with dental caries was not confirmed. Subjects with vitamin D deficiency and their children had significantly higher odds of developing dental decay. However, our findings suggest that 25-hydroxyvitamin D insufficiency may be a risk factor for developing dental caries in children. Kalra G, Kumar Y, Langpoklakpam C, et al. Relationship between Maternal Prenatal Vitamin D Status and Early Childhood Caries in Their Children: A Cross-sectional Survey. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):860-863.

Comparative Evaluation of Oral and Intranasal Administration of Midazolam as Preanesthetic Medication in Pediatric Dental Patients Treated under General Anesthesia.

Midazolam is commonly used as a preanesthetic medication for behavior management of children. The current study is conducted to find out the effect of midazolam through nasal and oral routes as a premedicament in pediatric patients treated under general anesthesia. The main aims of the study were: to compare the effect of oral syrup and intranasal spray as preanesthetic medication; to record the undesirable side effects of midazolam by both routes. The patients aged 2-6 years of either sex were randomly divided into two equal groups of 30 each-group I: oral; group II: intranasal. The oral and intranasal routes of midazolam were found to be equally effective and provided adequate sedation for easy separation from the parents and cooperation from children during the induction of anesthesia with minimal side effects. Based on the study results, we can conclude that both oral and intranasal midazolam can be used as preanesthetic medication for pediatric dental patients treated under general anesthesia. In pediatric patients, the oral route should be preferred for midazolam premedication in comparison to the intranasal route. Swati, Shah RK, Tandon S, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Oral and Intranasal Administration of Midazolam as Preanesthetic Medication in Pediatric Dental Patients Treated under General Anesthesia. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):881-886.

Unveiling the Biography of Sigmund Freud With Pediatric Dentistry Insights.

Born in Freiberg, Moravia (now the Czech Republic), Austrian psychiatrist Sigmund Freud was the forerunner of psychoanalysis, a ground-breaking approach to understanding the human mind. Originally studying neurology at the University of Vienna, Freud soon became fascinated with the psychological origins of mental illness.He developed theories on repression, the unconscious mind, and the significance of dreams because he saw dreams as windows into hidden conflicts and impulses. Freud developed the theory and asserted that unconscious impulses, especially those related to sexuality, have a major impact on human conduct. Dream analysis and free association were among his innovative methods that helped modern psychotherapy come to pass. Though they were attacked and divisive, Freud's theories had a major impact on humanities, psychology, and psychiatry. His studies on the human mind challenged conventional wisdom and offered innovative insights into mental health. Freud's writings continue to inspire research and debate; his effect on popular and scholarly opinion attests to his ongoing legacy.

A Comparative Evaluation Between Dermatoglyphics and Canine Relationship in Deciduous Dentition: An Analysis for Prediction.

This study aimed to investigate the potential correlation between dermatoglyphic patterns and primary canine relationships in children aged three to six years. Dermatoglyphics, the study of ridge patterns on fingers, has been linked to various genetic and developmental conditions. Similarly, primary canine relationships provide insights into dental health and potential orthodontic needs. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 600 children with complete primary dentition. Dermatoglyphic patterns were recorded using the ink and roller method, and primary canine relationships were assessed through clinical examination and dental cast analysis. Patterns were classified into arches, loops, and whorls, while canine relationships were categorized into Class I, II, or III. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and correlation coefficients, were performed to explore potential associations. The study found no significant correlation between dermatoglyphic patterns and primary canine relationships across various fingers of both hands. For each finger, the distribution of arches, loops, and whorls did not differ significantly among Classes I, II, and III canine relationships, with p-values ranging from 0.107 to 0.977. The results indicate that dermatoglyphic patterns and primary canine relationships are not directly correlated in this sample. This aligns with previous research suggesting that while both traits are influenced by genetic factors, their direct interaction may be less straightforward than hypothesized. The study highlights the complexity of genetic and developmental influences on dental and dermatoglyphic traits and underscores the need for further research. This study found no significant association between dermatoglyphic patterns and primary canine relationships. Future research should employ longitudinal designs and include diverse populations to explore indirect correlations and interactions. Understanding these relationships may enhance early diagnostic and predictive practices in pediatric dentistry, contributing to improved child health outcomes.

The Limitless Potential of Artificial Intelligence in Paediatric Dentistry

Background: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in paedi-atric dentistry has grown signifi-cantly, offering new possibilities for diagnostics, treatment plan-ning, and patient care. AI’s capaci-ty to handle large datasets and generate accurate predictions is transforming dental practice.Objective: This narrative review explores the potential applica-tions of AI in paediatric dentistry, focusing on its benefits, challeng-es, and future implications.Methods: A comprehensive litera-ture review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Sco-pus, and Web of Science. Relevant studies published between 2000 and 2023 were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria. The quality of the studies was ap-praised using the Joanna Briggs Institute tools.Results: AI applications, including image analysis, diagnosis, treat-ment planning, and patient man-agement, show significant prom-ise in paediatric dentistry. AI-powered tools can improve diag-nostic accuracy, reduce treat-ment inconsistencies, and en-hance patient outcomes. Howev-er, challenges related to costs, complexity, and ethical concerns remain.Conclusion: AI will not replace paediatric dentists but will serve as a valuable tool to support clini-cal decision-making. Future re-search should focus on overcom-ing current limitations and ensur-ing safe integration into clinical practice.

Comparative analysis of different filling materials in deciduous teeth

Dental caries in pediatric patients presents a significant challenge in maintaining oral health, making the choice of filling materials for deciduous teeth crucial for long-term success. Various restorative materials, including composite resins, glass ionomer cements (GICs), and resin-modified glass ionomers (RMGICs), have been used, each with distinct properties regarding durability, biocompatibility, and aesthetic outcomes. Composite resins are well-regarded for their ability to closely match the natural color of teeth, making them ideal for anterior restorations. However, they are technique-sensitive and may not provide sufficient durability in posterior regions subjected to high stress. Glass ionomer cements, known for their ease of placement and fluoride release, offer functional benefits in high-caries-risk patients, despite their lower aesthetic quality and susceptibility to wear over time. Resin-modified glass ionomers attempt to combine the strengths of both composites and GICs by improving durability and aesthetics while maintaining the fluoride-releasing property. The safety and biocompatibility of these materials also play a pivotal role in pediatric dentistry. While composite resins may release small amounts of bisphenol A (BPA), which has raised concerns about its potential health risks, GICs and RMGICs are generally considered safer due to their simpler chemical composition and fluoride release. In terms of functional longevity, composite resins offer better wear resistance compared to GICs, though resin-modified glass ionomers provide a compromise with improved strength and ease of use. Ultimately, the choice of restorative material should consider the specific clinical circumstances, including the child’s caries risk, tooth location, and the balance between aesthetic and functional needs. No single material is universally ideal for all cases, and a tailored approach is necessary to optimize outcomes in pediatric dental restorations.

Basic principles of treatment and follow-up of children with acute odontogenic infection and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

The purpose of the study is to substantiate the basic principles of treatment and clinical dental observation of children with acute odontogenic inflammatory disease and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus as an accompanying disease. Material and methods. A medical examination was conducted for 213 children who were treated at the St. Petersburg city children’s hospital of K.A. Raukhus of. The dental status of children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and children of the control group without concomitant diseases was assessed using the Fedorov-Volodkina index, the KPU index and analysis of the caries intensity according to the T.F. Vinogradova table, periodontal conditions according to the PMA index (papillary-marginal-alveolar). The state of microhemocirculation of periodontal tissues was also assessed using Doppler ultrasound and the use of a reflex cold test. In children diagnosed with “Acute odontogenic osteomyelitis of the jaws,” laboratory blood parameters, the composition of the microbial flora of wound discharge, and the length of hospitalization were studied. Results. Based on the data obtained, an algorithm for treatment and dispensary dental observation of children with diabetes was presented. The detection of diabetes mellitus in children of any age should be accompanied by increased attention to the dental health of these patients. If teeth affected by caries are identified during a preventive examination, immediate treatment is required. It is necessary to ensure constant follow-up of the child by an endocrinologist. Doppler examination of the microhemocirculatory bed vessels of the mucosa of the alveolar process of the jaw revealed that an adequate response to a reflex cold test was detected only in the control group patients, those who do not have insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. With the development of acute odontogenic osteomyelitis of the jaw in children suffering from insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, hospitalization is necessary when the first clinical symptoms of the inflammatory process appear. Immediately after hospitalization and immediate surgical sanitation of a purulent focus of infection in the oral cavity, drug therapy should be started: antibacterial, infusion, symptomatic, as well as insulin therapy. The results of this study are especially relevant in the treatment of children with a duration of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus of more than 5 years and a decompensated course of endocrine disease. Conclusions. The results of the study allowed us to expand our understanding of the impact of diabetes on the oral health of children, to establish risk factors for the development of acute odontogenic osteomyelitis of the jaws in children of different age categories with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, as well as the characteristics of the course of odontogenic osteomyelitis of the jaws in each of the cases. Based on the identified features, the principles of diagnosis and treatment of acute odontogenic osteomyelitis of the jaws in children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus have been formulated.

A Behavior-Based Model to Validate Electronic Systems Designed to Collect Patient-Reported Outcomes: Model Development and Application.

The merits of technology have been adopted in capturing patient-reported outcomes (PROs) by incorporating PROs into electronic systems. Following the development of an electronic system, evaluation of system performance is crucial to ensuring the collection of meaningful data. In contemporary PRO literature, electronic system validation is overlooked, and evidence on validation methods is lacking. This study aims to introduce a generalized concept to guide electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) providers in planning for system-specific validation methods. Since electronic systems are essentially products of software engineering endeavors, electronic systems used to collect PRO should be viewed from a computer science perspective with consideration to the health care environment. On this basis, a testing model was blueprinted and applied to a newly developed ePRO system designed for clinical use in pediatric dentistry (electronic Personal Assessment Questionnaire-Paediatric Dentistry) to investigate its thoroughness. A behavior-based model of ePRO system validation was developed based on the principles of user acceptance testing and patient-centered care. The model allows systematic inspection of system specifications and identification of technical errors through simulated positive and negative usage pathways in open and closed environments. The model was able to detect 15 positive errors with 1 unfavorable response when applied to electronic Personal Assessment Questionnaire-Paediatric Dentistry system testing. The application of the behavior-based model to a newly developed ePRO system showed a high ability for technical error detection in a systematic fashion. The proposed model will increase confidence in the validity of ePRO systems as data collection tools in future research and clinical practice.

Sleep medicine education in the United States advanced dental education programs.

Dental sleep medicine is an emerging field within dentistry. While limited education in sleep medicine has been reported among US predoctoral dental schools, no study has been conducted among postgraduate dental programs. This study compared the extent and exposure to sleep medicine education among US postgraduate programs in orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, orofacial pain (OFP), general practice residency (GPR), and advanced education in general dentistry (AEGD). A REDCap survey was distributed among N=391 US postgraduate programs investigating the nature, content, and modality of sleep education during the 2023-24 academic year. Among 68 responding programs (43.1% GPR, 18.5% AEGD, 18.5% orthodontics, 12.3% pediatric dentistry, and 7.7% OFP), faculty with sleep training constituted 7.5%, with 2.6% being board certified in sleep medicine. Approximately 41.8% of programs offered sleep medicine courses, with differences among specialties (100% OFP, 42.9% GPR, 37.5% pediatric dentistry, 33.3% orthodontics, 16.7% AEGD; p=0.032). Didactic teaching comprised 7.8±14.6h/year (range 0h/year in 21.5% to 80h/year in 1.5%), with differences across programs (OFP=44.0±17.7, orthodontics=8.7±11.0, GPR=5.0±8.0, pediatric dentistry=2.1±1.9, and AEGD=2.9±5.4; p<0.001), and constituted the primary modality of instruction (mainly obstructive sleep apnea, bruxism, sleep physiology). Screening and treatment for sleep-related disorders were provided by 35.9% and 37.9% of programs, respectively, with variations among specialties (p=0.004). Our findings revealed an average of 7.8h/year of didactic sleep medicine instruction, which differed across specialties. OFP offered the highest level of didactic and clinical training. These findings emphasize the need for increased dental sleep medicine education to address the increasing involvement of dental professionals in managing sleep-related disorders.

An inverse relationship between dental fluorosis and Molar Incisor Hypomineralization in Mexican schoolchildren in an area with a high concentration of fluoride in drinking water: A cross-sectional study.

To evaluate the association between the frequency and severity of dental fluorosis and Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) in 8-12-year-old schoolchildren living in an area with a high concentration of fluoride in the drinking water. The present cross‑sectional study was conducted on Mexican children (n = 573) selected from one community presenting a drinking water fluoride concentration of 1.39 ppm/F. The prevalence of dental fluorosis was ascertained using the Thylstrup and Fejerskov Index (TFI). The presence and severity of MIH was evaluated using the European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (EAPD) criteria. A multinomial regression model was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and the 95% confidence intervals (CI), using the severity of MIH as the result. The prevalence of MIH was 37.7% and, by severity, was 16.1% mild, 14.3% moderate, and 7.3% severe. The prevalence of dental fluorosis in permanent dentition was 70.9% (TFI ≥1) and, by severity, was 29.2% (TFI = 0), 45.6% (TFI 1-3) and 25.3% (TFI ≥4), while 54.5% of subjects were found to have poor oral hygiene. Schoolchildren with fluorosis (TFI ≥4) were 49% less likely [OR = 0.51; p = 0.025] to present mild MIH than children with fluorosis (TFI <4). Similarly, children with fluorosis (TFI ≥4) were 53% [OR = 0.47; p = 0.019] and 62% [OR = 0.38; p = 0.036] less likely to present moderate and severe MIH than children with fluorosis (TFI <4). An inverse relationship between the presence of fluorosis and MIH was found. The results obtained by the present study may contribute to both the early identification of disorders affecting the enamel and the creation and implementation of long-term oral health prevention, promotion, and intervention programs in the affected population.

Assessment of the salivary level of glutathione and the feeding pattern in molar incisor hypomineralization among 7-9 years of age: an analytical cross-sectional study

Background: The study aimed to assess salivary glutathione levels and the pattern of feeding on molar incisor hypomineralization among healthy children aged 7-9 years. Materials and Methods: The study was a cross-sectional study. A total of 90 children sample was further sub classified into two groups: the study group, including 60 children with molar incisor hypomineralization, classified into two subgroups, 30 children with mild type and 30 children with severe type of molar incisor hypomineralization. In addition to the control group involving 30 children without incisor hypomineralization and free of caries. Examination and diagnostic criteria for hypominerlization of the molar incisor and assessment of severity were according to European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (EAPD) guidelines in 2003. The salivary glutathione ELISA kit was used to assess the amount of glutathione in unstimulated saliva samples. After an oral examination, the parents of each child completed a self-administered questionnaire that included information on the child's feeding pattern during the first year of life. The questionnaires were returned to the researcher the following day. The child who received a mixed feeding pattern was excluded from the study. Results: The ordinal logistic regression model (Overall model test: p &lt; 0.001) presented that salivary glutathione (p &lt; 0.001), saliva pH (p = 0.014) and saliva flow rate (p = 0.009) were significant predictors of hypomineralization of the molar incisor. The feeding pattern (p = 0.625) and gender (p = 0.394) were not significant predicators for hypomineralization of the molar incisor hypomineralization. Conclusion: In children aged 7 to 9 years, salivary glutathione level is a negative predicator for the degree of hypomineralization of the molar incisor. Moreover, child feeding pattern, and gender, are not significant predicators of hypomineralization of the incisor hypomineralization.

It's not just adults who gnash their teeth - a comprehensive review of the latest information on bruxism in children

Introduction Bruxism is a parafunction characterized by excessive chewing muscle activity involving grinding or clenching of the teeth. Bruxism has become a significant challenge in the field of pediatric dentistry. Aim of the study The aim of this comprehensive review is to provide an overview of bruxism in children, focusing on etiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and current treatment options. To draw attention to the prevalence of the disorder and to raise awareness of the importance of early recognition and intervention for bruxism in children. Materials and methods An analysis of scientific articles available in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases was conducted. Our research is supported by all relevant publications from recent years. The etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of bruxism in children were of particular interest in the study. This process involved the use of the following keywords: ‘bruxism’, ‘children’, ‘sleep bruxism’, ‘tooth wear’, ‘bruxism diagnosis’, ‘bruxism etiology’, ‘bruxism treatment’. Conclusions We evaluated 31 relevant publications. The results of the study indicate a variation in the prevalence of bruxism in children, oscillating between 13-49%. The etiology of this disorder is multidimensional and remains incompletely elucidated. The primary methods of diagnosing bruxism in younger patients include observation by parents or caregivers, a thorough health history and intraoral and extraoral dental examination. Physiotherapy and psychotherapy are recommended for the treatment of nocturnal bruxism in children. Prompt recognition of the disorder and implementation of appropriate therapy can help to halt the progression of motor dysfunction of the masticatory apparatus in children.

A Qualitative Study of Naturally Living Parents and Child Oral Health: Omissions and Commissions.

Oral health continues to be one of the most common and costly diseases in early childhood, and there is a need for further, innovative research. We explored the ways naturally living parents (those who embody the "natural" within their parenting ideology and behavior) navigated and perceived their children's oral health. Twelve participants who identified as being "naturally living parents" participated in semistructured interviews. Data were thematically analyzed, and findings were aligned to an omissions and commissions framework to exhibit the complexity of parent decision-making. Parents performed distinct omissions, including omitting fluoride, sugar, and "toxins" to maintain their children's oral health. Parents talked about having a commitment to knowledge building to protect their children's oral health (e.g., ingredient label reading and increasing knowledge of "safe" ingredients). Findings also provide insight into how parents consider and trust health information and health care providers and ways they gather information relating to oral health. Analysis indicated that although parents navigated both omissions and commissions, omissions were more overtly present. Compared to previous health research using this framework, omissions and commissions were not as clearly demarcated in relation to oral health. The results show that oral health is a complex interplay of omissions and commissions, and parents must navigate not only discrete elements that affect the oral health of their children but also how these are influenced by considerations including social well-being. The study highlights the need for dentists and early childhood health professionals to consider the complex way some parents perceive, inform, and rationalize decisions regarding their children's oral health. There is a need for nuance when considering children's oral health and naturally living parenting, especially in relation to effectively communicating health information that fosters trust and is considerate of broader lifestyle and health factors.