Artificial intelligence (AI) in the present scenario stands at the forefront of innovation, offering transformative potential across all domains, including healthcare. Recognizing the need for a deeper understanding of the barriers to AI implementation in dentistry, this study aims to explore and analyse the challenges hindering its widespread adoption. The study employed a mixed-method approach. First, we conducted a detailed review of past studies to identify possible barriers. About 18 experts helped in finalizing the 17 important barriers. We used Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) to understand how these barriers are connected. Further, Matrice d'impacts croisés multiplication appliquée à un classement (MICMAC) analysis was operationalised to group the barriers and assess their effect on other barriers. The study found several major barriers. These include fear of biasness, technology sophistication, firm size and structure, lack of trained staff, unavailability of data, privacy and security issues. Technological hurdles and lack of accountability are found to be the linkage variables linking the driver and dependent quadrants. ISM helped show how some barriers are more powerful and affect others. MICMAC analysis grouped the barriers into four types, namely independent, dependent, linkage and driving. Dentists, technology makers and policymakers can use these results to build trust in AI systems and improve dental care. This is one of the initial attempts to use both ISM and MICMAC methods to study the role of AI in dentistry.

In an underserved parish in South Louisiana, a critical need for early childhood dental care was identified. This brief report describes a service-learning intervention that was developed, implemented and aimed at screening, educating, and improving access to dental care for children aged 3 to 6. The core services provided by the program include fluoride varnish application, dental screenings, oral health education, nutritional counseling, and parental engagement for 170 students. The primary goal was to build sustainable partnerships that ensured reciprocity between the community and the university that was involved. The objectives were to enhance access to care, advance oral health literacy, mitigate oral health disparities, and promote dental prevention strategies. Additionally, the program aimed to serve the community while offering healthcare students valuable experiential learning opportunities.

Children's dental fear (CDF) has become a major factor compromising the quality of dental treatment. Over time, persistent dental fear may adversely affect both the physical and psychological well-being of pediatric patients.This study aims to assess the effect of scenario-experiential behavior management techniques on dental fear in preschool children with dental caries. Trial Registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2400090907) registered 15 October 2024. A total of 100 children who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria in the pediatric stomatology department were selected and randomly assigned to either a control group or an intervention group using a random number table. The control group received standard pediatric dental care, while the intervention group was given a scenarioexperiential plan before treatment. Children's Fear Survey Schedule-Dental Subscale (CFSS-DS) scores, Frankl Rating Scale (FRS) scores, and parental satisfaction levels were compared between the two groups. Descriptive analysis, the independent test, the Pearson's chisquare test, Wilcoxon rank sum test and Fisher's exact test were applied. One hundred children were recruited in the study. Seven children were lost to follow-up or excluded, leaving 93 children with a mean age of 4.54 ± 0.98 years for final analysis (46 in the intervention group, 47 in the control group). Before the intervention, there were no significant differences in CFSS-DS or FRS scores between the two groups. After the intervention, the intervention group had significantly lower CFSS-DS scores (25.26 ± 6.96) compared to the control group (29.40 ± 10.15) (P = 0.024, t = 2.287, 95%CI = 0.545,7.742). In the intervention group, 34 children (73.91%) reached FRS level 3 and 8 (17.39%) reached level 4. In contrast, the control group had 25 children (53.19%) at level 3 and 6 (12.77%) at level 4. Children in the intervention group showed better treatment cooperation (P = 0.015,Z=-2.444, 95%CI = 0.009,0.012). At the end of the study, 36 (78.30%) parents in the intervention group reported being very satisfied, compared to 31 (66.00%) parents in the control group. Parental satisfaction was significantly higher in the intervention group (P = 0.027, χ2 = 9.151,95%CI = 0.018,0.024). The findings of this study indicated scenario-experiential behavior management techniques showed significant advantages in alleviating dental fear in preschool children and improving their compliance during visits. Through one-on-one interactive games, both children and their parents receive clear explanations of dental procedures, which helps improve their overall satisfaction. However, due to some limitations of this study, it would be necessary to conduct randomized controlled trials with large sample size, long follow-up time and more standardized treatment and evaluation methods in the future to provide more accurate and clinically meaningful results.

This workforce modelling research aims to model the future dental workforce in line with the full enactment of the revised Dental Act, which permits dental therapists to practice in private dental sectors. A validated systems dynamics model was used to examine the interaction between the population baseline need, demand for and the supply of dental care services across public and private sectors between 2015 and 2030. Simulations were made based on evidence drawn from previous studies and government data policy. The need/demand and supply sub-models were integrated in relation to clinical hours to explore the potential of over-or undersupply of dentists and therapists, which were then converted to workforce numbers. The model suggests that the demand for Malaysian dentists and dental therapists is expected to increase by over 27.2% and 2.6%, respectively, across the simulation period and the demographic disease trends. This result indicates the need for an expanded dental workforce. However, a potential oversupply of public dental therapists and private dentists was projected by 2025. Furthermore, a potential undersupply of public dentists was observed throughout the simulation period. There is an apparent mismatch between the population demand and workforce supply across sectors. The model findings indicate the need for additional discussion and scrutiny of regulations allowing dental therapists to operate in the private sector to inform workforce policy and planning.

Climate change poses a significant threat to global health, with profound implications for oral health. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, deteriorating air quality, and food insecurity exacerbate existing vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of periodontal diseases, dental caries, and oral infections. In addition, climate-induced disruptions to dental care delivery – such as facility damages and supply shortages – mirror the challenges faced during global health crises like pandemics. The dental profession also contributes to environmental degradation through energy-intensive practices and waste generation. Embracing sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices, and educating patients and policymakers can mitigate these impacts. Collaborative efforts among dental professionals, public health agencies, and policymakers are crucial in addressing climate-related health disparities and fostering a resilient, environmentally responsible oral healthcare system.

Introduction Providing dental care to persons with special healthcare needs is often seen as complex; however, this complexity is difficult to capture given the spectrum of presentations patients may present with.Aims This study discusses the development, validation and pilot use of a complexity checklist (CC): a brief (12-item) instrument designed to characterise the complexity of dental care provided to persons with special healthcare needs.Methods The CC was developed by the authors and then discussed and refined by clinicians who specialise in the dental management of persons with special healthcare needs. Firstly, validation of the tool included a test-retest study using simulated cases based on real-world clinical scenarios. Analysis included assessment of inter-dentist and intra-dentist reliability, as well as correlation with 'gold-standard' responses. Secondly, the tool was piloted in a tertiary specialist referral service over a six-month period where the CC was completed at the end of each appointment.Results Analysis of the test-retest study revealed good reproducibility, criterion validity, and interpretability. Pilot study data revealed variations in how complex patients presented.Conclusion Initial validation and use of the CC has shown encouraging results but warrants further investigation. Results of the study suggest that aspects of complexity are not captured in existing case mix tools.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on dental practices worldwide, and the University Clinical Dentistry Center of Kosovo was no exception. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the pandemic on dental practice, patient management, and antibiotic use in the absence of routine dental care. In March 2020, Kosovo's Ministry of Health mandated the suspension of non-emergency dental services to mitigate the spread of the virus, which led to an increased reliance on antibiotics to manage dental infections remotely. This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with 16 dentists working at UCDCK, all with more than 10 years of experience, to explore the effects of the pandemic on dental practice, patient management, and antibiotic prescribing. Interview data were thematically analyzed, and findings were supplemented with antibiotic prescription trends from 2019 to 2022. During the suspension of services mandated in March 2020, the study found that 75% of dentists admitted to prescribing antibiotics as a preventive measure during the service suspension, driven by concerns about the potential for escalating infections without in-person care. Patients also exerted pressure on dentists to prescribe antibiotics during this period. The reliance on antibiotics raised concerns about antimicrobial resistance, which was exacerbated by the lack of clear prescribing guidelines. The data showed an increase in antibiotic prescriptions during the peak of the pandemic, particularly Penicillin, with a slight decline once routine dental services resumed. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted dental services at UCDCK, resulting in worsened patient oral health, ethical challenges for practitioners, and increased reliance on antibiotics. These findings underscore the urgent need for clear antibiotic stewardship protocols, robust infection control measures, and the integration of tele-dentistry to improve resilience in future crises.

This case report describes the health intervention conducted in the riverside communities of Santo Antônio and Passa Bem, in the municipality of Arari-MA, aimed at promoting health and reducing regional inequalities. These communities face socioeconomic vulnerabilities, limited access to potable water, and inadequate sanitation, which directly affect population health. The intervention was carried out by a multidisciplinary team and included clinical and dental care, as well as educational activities on hygiene, sanitation, and healthy lifestyle practices. Common health conditions identified included dental caries, periodontal diseases, hypertension, diabetes, and intestinal parasitoses. Community engagement and the adaptation of actions to the local reality were essential for the effectiveness of the strategies. This report highlights the importance of Primary Health Care and contextualized health education as tools to promote equity, improve quality of life, and reduce health disparities in riverside communities.

Racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare use among older adults persist in the U.S. and remain a pressing equity issue. While prior studies have documented these disparities, few have examined how they change over time across different care domains. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating how disparities in preventive, treatment, and long-term care use have changed over the past two decades. Using 11 waves (1996-2016) of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a nationally representative longitudinal survey of U.S. older adults (N = 23,724), this study examines trends in healthcare use by race/ethnicity. Healthcare use was categorized as preventive care (physician visits and dental care), treatment care (hospital stays and outpatient surgeries), and long-term care (home health care and nursing home care). Mixed-effects logistic regression models assessed racial/ethnic differences over time. Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic older adults were less likely to use preventive and treatment care than their non-Hispanic White counterparts, with disparities widening notably after 2008. In contrast, long-term care use increased among Non-Hispanic Black older adults but declined among Hispanic older adults over time. Significant interaction terms confirmed that disparities shifted over time and differed by care type. Findings indicate that national healthcare reforms have not equally benefited all racial and ethnic groups. Persistent and growing disparities highlight the need for targeted, culturally responsive policies and equity-focused monitoring systems to ensure fair access to healthcare for an increasingly diverse aging population.

BackgroundAsylum seekers and refugees (ASR) experience disproportionately poor oral health due to socioeconomic disadvantage and barriers to accessing routine dental care. Although ASR are entitled to free dental treatment through HC2 exemption, practical challenges persist. Charitable organisations such as Dentaid provide mobile community clinics to address this gap.AimThis retrospective mixed-methods service evaluation assessed the accessibility, utilisation, and impact of Dentaid's dental clinics for ASR in England.MethodsQuantitative data from 88 clinics delivered across 11 locations between April 2023 and August 2024 were analysed. Variables included demographics, presenting complaint, treatment provided, and smoking status. A dental-charted subsample of 50 adults was compared with national data. Fisher's Exact Test explored differences between clinic sites. A SWOT-based stakeholder survey was performed and analysed thematically to identify barriers and facilitators in service delivery.ResultsA total of 647 patients received care, with 70% presenting in pain and 42% reporting smoking, almost double the national average. The subsample demonstrated high levels of untreated decay and previous extractions. Common treatments included restorations, extractions, and preventive care. Fisher's Exact Test reported no significant differences between sites. Stakeholders highlighted improved accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and reduced financial barriers, but reported challenges with consistent funding for follow-up clinics and interpreter provision.ConclusionsDentaid's clinics improved access to urgent and preventive care for ASR who struggle to use mainstream dental services. However, reliance on charitable provision reflects structural inequity. Integration with commissioned NHS pathways and sustained Inclusion Health support are required to ensure equitable, long-term access.

Background: Odontogenic orofacial infections in children are common, potentially serious conditions originating from dental caries, pulpal disease, or periodontal pathology. Historically linked to high mortality, they remain a frequent reason for emergency department visits. Pediatric patients, often first seen by non-dental clinicians, present unique diagnostic and management challenges. Aim: This article provides a comprehensive review of the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and evidence-based management of pediatric odontogenic infections, emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach for optimal outcomes. Methods: A detailed narrative review synthesizes current literature on the microbial etiology, pathophysiological spread, and risk factors for severe infection. It evaluates diagnostic strategies, including clinical examination and imaging (e.g., panoramic radiograph, CT scan), and analyzes therapeutic protocols from major dental and medical guidelines. Results: The pathophysiology involves polymicrobial flora spreading from necrotic pulp or periodontal pockets along fascial planes, risking deep neck space infections like Ludwig’s angina. High-risk groups include children with diabetes, immunosuppression, or poor access to dental care. Diagnosis hinges on recognizing “red flag” symptoms (trismus, dysphagia, airway compromise). Management prioritizes definitive source control via drainage, endodontic therapy, or extraction. Antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin) are adjunctive for systemic signs, not a substitute for dental intervention. Analgesia favors NSAID/acetaminophen combinations over opioids. Conclusion: Successful management requires early recognition, accurate risk stratification, and prompt referral to dental specialists. A coordinated, interprofessional team approach is essential to prevent life-threatening complications and ensure effective treatment.

Background: Paediatric maxillofacial trauma is a significant source of morbidity in children, occurring during critical periods of craniofacial growth. Its incidence is rising in many developing nations due to factors like increased motorization and interpersonal violence. Managing these injuries is complex due to the unique anatomical and developmental considerations of the paediatric facial skeleton. Aim: This study aimed to characterize the epidemiology, injury patterns, and management outcomes of paediatric maxillofacial trauma in a cohort of 225 patients over a five-year period (2017-2022), and to compare findings with existing international literature. Methods: A detailed observational study was conducted, analyzing demographic data, mechanisms of injury, clinical presentation, and treatment modalities. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, were used to identify significant associations between variables such as age, cause of injury, and injury type. Results: The study found a male predominance (2:1 ratio) and identified self-fall (45%) as the most common cause. A significant finding was that 40% of patients experienced loss of consciousness, highlighting associated head injury risks. Soft-tissue injuries (58%) were most frequent, followed by dentoalveolar (30%) and mandibular fractures (20%). Conservative management was employed in 86% of cases, while open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) was the primary surgical approach (62% of operative cases). Significant statistical associations were found between patient age and the cause of injury, as well as the type of soft- and hard-tissue injuries sustained. Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for a vigilant, multidisciplinary approach that includes prompt neurological assessment, addresses delays in presentation, and employs age-specific, often conservative, management strategies to preserve long-term craniofacial growth and function.

Access to dental services is critical in determining public health status, yet significant disparities persist, especially in remote areas. This literature review explores the impact of limited access to dental care on public health. The review methodology involved analyzing recent studies addressing the various factors—economic, geographical, and social determinants—influencing access to dental services in different communities. The results indicate that individuals with restricted access to dental care are more prone to oral diseases, which can lead to a decline in overall health and quality of life. Furthermore, these communities often face higher treatment costs due to the need for more complex procedures when issues are untreated for extended periods. The findings highlight that limited access to dental services increases the burden on healthcare systems and exacerbates inequalities in health outcomes. In conclusion, improving access to dental services, particularly in underserved and rural areas, is essential to mitigate the negative effects of oral diseases, reduce healthcare costs, and improve public health outcomes in the long term. Addressing these disparities is crucial for promoting equitable health opportunities for all.

Dental caries is one of the most prevalent oral health problems worldwide, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan where access to oral health care services is limited. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of dental caries among the population of Rawat, Pakistan. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Rawat, Pakistan, over a period of six months (February–July 2025). A total of 400 participants, both males and females aged between 12 and 60 years, were selected through convenience sampling using the WHO sample size calculator version 2.0. Clinical examinations were performed using WHO criteria for the diagnosis of dental caries. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 25.The prevalence of dental caries was found to be 68.5%. Females exhibited a slightly higher prevalence (71.2%) compared to males (65.4%). The highest prevalence was observed among participants aged 21–30 years (75.6%). Socioeconomic status, oral hygiene practices and the lack of an affordable, multifunctional preventive dental hygiene product accessible to populations were significantly associated with the occurrence of caries.These findings highlight the urgent need for preventive oral health programs in semi-urban communities of Pakistan as well as the formulation of a cost-effective, multifunctional agent designed to arrest or reverse early carious lesions. Targeted strategies focusing on oral hygiene education, introduction of preventive dental materials, reduced sugar intake, and improved access to dental care could significantly reduce the disease burden in this population

To investigate the associations between mental health vulnerabilities and periodontal disease among Korean adults using nationally representative data. We analyzed data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) (2010-2017). Logistic regression models adjusted for sociodemographic, behavioral, and oral health covariates were used to assess the associations between mental health factors (perceived stress, depression, suicidal ideation, and mental health counseling) and periodontal disease. A total of 11,019 adults aged ≥40 years who participated in the KNHANES (2010-2017). Associations between mental health factors (perceived stress, depression, suicidal ideation, and mental health counseling) and periodontal disease. High perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation were independently associated with higher odds of periodontal disease. In contrast, a history of mental health counseling was not significantly associated with periodontal disease. Mental health vulnerabilities were associated with periodontal disease. Although a causal relationship and temporal sequence could not be determined, the findings highlight the need for integrated public health strategies that link dental care with mental health screening and community support systems.

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between Medicaid dental coverage for pregnant adults and receipt of a dental cleaning during pregnancy among adults with Medicaid. In this cross-sectional study, 2019 Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System data were used to measure individuals' receipt of a dental cleaning during pregnancy and in the year prior to pregnancy. The independent variable was the state-level degree of Medicaid dental coverage for pregnant adults as of 2019, ranging from none to extensive. Weighted logistic regression models estimated the odds of having a dental cleaning during pregnancy, both for the full sample and stratified by whether or not a cleaning was received pre-pregnancy. Approximately one-third (31%) of respondents reported receiving a dental cleaning during pregnancy. In multivariable results, pregnant adults living in states with emergency (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.41-0.83, p = 0.002) or no (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.41-0.86, p = 0.006) dental coverage had significantly lower odds of having a dental cleaning during pregnancy than those living in states with extensive dental coverage. This association was concentrated among people who did not have a dental cleaning pre-pregnancy; those without a cleaning pre-pregnancy who lived in a state with extensive dental coverage had approximately twice the odds or more of having a dental cleaning during pregnancy than those who lived in states with emergency or no dental coverage. Having dental insurance is critically important to be able to access needed dental care and avoid substantial out-of-pocket costs. This study found that for pregnant adults in Medicaid who who hadn't had a dental cleaning in the year prior to pregnancy, having extensive dental coverage was significantly associated with much higher odds of having a dental cleaning during pregnancy relative to having emergency or no dental coverage. Our findings, together with the body of evidence on the impact of Medicaid dental coverage on dental care access, underscore the importance of providing comprehensive dental coverage in Medicaid regardless of age and pregnancy status.

Pregnancy-related oral health conditions highlight the importance of maintaining dental care, as they can be detrimental to both mother and fetus. In Indonesia, there are considerable gaps in access to general and dental healthcare and there is a lack of reliable data on the oral health status and dental care provision for pregnant women. This study aimed to gain preliminary findings on the oral health status of a vulnerable sample of pregnant women through assessing decay, missing, and fillings (DMFT) at the Made community health centre. In order to secure the health of mothers and children data of this study might improving access to dental care for pregnant women needs to be a priority in relevant policies.

Impact of early caries intervention on dental treatment in Indigenous Australian children: a randomised controlled trial.

Efficacy of a 3D-printed static progressive microstomia orthosis in increasing mouth opening and function following burn injury.

Gender differences in healthcare utilization across Europe: Evidence from the European Health Interview Survey.