Dental Check-ups Research Articles

Factors Affecting the Seeking of Orthodontic Treatment of Turkish Adults

Objective The aim of this study is to determine the factors that are effective in seeking orthodontic treatment of Turkish adult individuals and to evaluate the effects of demographic characteristics such as gender, age, marital status, and educational status of the participants on these factors comparatively. Methods A questionnaire-based study was applied to participants who want to receive orthodontic treatment. In the first part, the participants were asked about demographic information such as gender, age, marital status, occupation, and educational status. A total of 542 people (330 female and 212 male) were included in our study. The age of participants included in the study ranged between 18 and 45. Questions about oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups and the factors that affect in seeking orthodontic treatment were asked in the second part of the questionnaire. Results Young adults and females were found to have a higher rate of seeking orthodontic treatment. When the participants were asked what led them to orthodontic treatment, 72.1% of the participants stated that they thought it as a necessity such that they should receive orthodontic treatment. Material selection in orthodontic treatment shows statistical significance according to demographic characteristics ( p < 0.05). While 48% of the participants in the 18ȓ24 age group preferred metal orthodontic brackets, 37.9% of the participants in the 25–45 age group preferred clear aligner. Moreover, 40.4% of the married participants preferred clear aligner, while 45.1% of the single participants preferred metal orthodontic brackets. Conclusion The factors in seeking orthodontic treatment of individuals vary according to demographic characteristics and social environment of individuals.

Workplace oral health promotion activities among community-aged care workers: A qualitative exploration.

The workplace is an ideal-and priority-setting for health promotion activities. Developing and implementing workplace health promotion interventions, including oral health promotion activities, can help create health-supporting workplace environments. To pilot workplace oral health promotion activities among staff working in the aged care sector, report their impact and explore participants' views on the factors that contribute to participation and effectiveness. This study comprised three phases: (i) the development and face validation of the resources, (ii) a 3-h educational session and (iii) five interview sessions with participants 4-6 weeks following the education session. The recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Eleven community-aged care workforce were invited to five feedback sessions. Ten participants were female and ranged in age from 18 to 64. All participants gave favourable comments about the content and delivery of the training session and accompanying resources. The participants felt that the benefits of WOHP include improved staff knowledge, awareness and oral care routine, the ability to share (and put into practice) the gained knowledge and information with their dependants, a lower risk of having poor oral health that adversely affects their well-being and work tasks, and potentially beneficial impacts on the organization's staff roster. Their attendance in the WOHP was facilitated by being paid to attend and scheduling the sessions during work time. Future WOHP suggestions include the possibility of a one-stop dental check-up at the workplace or staff dental care discounts from local dental practitioners and combining oral health with other health promotion activities. Planning and implementing WOHP was deemed acceptable and feasible in this study context and successfully achieved short-term impacts among community-aged care workers. Appropriate times and locations, organizational arrangements and a variety of delivery options contributed to successful programme planning and implementation.

Types, accuracy, and efficacy of salivary biomarkers in periodontal diagnosis

Periodontal diseases primarily occur due, to infections and inflammation that affect the gums and bone structures supporting the teeth. In the stage, known as gingivitis the gums may become swollen turn red and bleed easily. These health issues not impact health but also have broader implications for overall well-being, including tooth loss, discomfort, bad breath and an increased vulnerability, to chronic illnesses. The main objective of this review is to examine aspects pertaining to diseases encompassing clinical indications, methods, for diagnosis, available treatment choices, and preventive strategies. This research meticulously examines the types of these diseases, their stages, and their causes. It also discusses the approaches and criteria used to diagnose these conditions. Additionally, the paper provides an evaluation of treatment alternatives and strategic frameworks, for managing pathologies. This includes both surgical approaches, well as supportive therapies. The paper emphasizes the importance of measures. Maintaining oral health through consistent dental hygiene practices, regular dental checkups, and necessary lifestyle adjustments. In conclusion, while periodontal diseases pose challenges in practice they can be controlled and prevented through collaboration, between dental practitioners, dental hygienists, and active patient participation.

A supernumerary tooth: A case report of a mesiodens

Introduction: Mesiodens is an erupted supernumerary tooth located between the maxillary central incisors. Case Report: This report presents a case of a fully erupted mesiodens in a 10-year-old girl causing incisor displacement. The patient presented for a dental checkup with dental caries and a mesiodens visible on clinical exam. Radiographs confirmed eruption of the mesiodens. Extraction was planned to prevent further crowding. Erupted mesiodens can still cause complications like malocclusion and cysts. Extraction is the treatment of choice. Conclusion: Early diagnosis allowed for removal before additional orthodontic problems. Monitoring and restorative care are needed after extraction. This highlights the importance of prompt mesiodens diagnosis and extraction even when fully erupted.

Oral manifestations found among illicit drugs users

Illicit drug use is an intricate challenge that currently affects an individual's health and overall well-being. This review study provides insight into the availability of information regarding the examination of the signs, treatment approaches, and broader consequences related to health problems among individuals who use drugs. The clinical indicators of drug consumption on oral health encompass issues such as dry mouth (xerostomia), gum problems, teeth grinding (bruxism), and dental cavities. These manifestations contribute to immediate discomfort and elevate the risk of long-term dental complications, underscoring the pressing need for intervention and care. Effective management strategies involve a comprehensive approach, incorporating preventive measures, timely treatment, and a compassionate understanding of the unique challenges faced by drug users. Preventive efforts, such as education and regular dental check-ups, serve as critical components in mitigating the clinical manifestations. Treatment strategies, including restorative procedures and periodontal therapy, play a pivotal role in addressing immediate oral health concerns. However, the management of oral health issues extends beyond the dental chair. Acknowledging the hurdles faced by individuals who use drugs, including economic factors and social prejudice, underscores the significance of adopting a comprehensive approach to providing support and assistance. Integrating oral health services with substance abuse treatment presents a promising avenue for comprehensive healthcare. This collaborative approach addresses oral health issues and acknowledges the bidirectional relationship between substance abuse and oral health. In summary, it is essential to comprehend the relationship between illicit drug use and oral health. By implementing management strategies, we can potentially reduce suffering, improve quality of life, and enhance health for individuals affected by substance abuse. This holistic approach emphasizes the significance of acknowledging and addressing these population’s health requirements within a broader healthcare framework.

Proteomic analysis of salivary inflammatory biomarkers of developmental gingival enlargements in patients with West and Noonan syndromes: a preliminary pilot single-center retrospective study.

The aim of the preliminary pilot single-center retrospective cross-sectional study was to analyze and compare the presence of non-secretory salivary inflammatory biomarkers in pediatric patients with West syndrome, Noonan syndrome, and a healthy control group. A total of 60 saliva samples were collected during dental check-ups. The saliva samples collected were analyzed by liquid chromatography. The results were analyzed with a t-test, and the statistical significance was given by a p-value lower than 0.05. We found statistical significance for defensin α1 (p=0.006) and thymosin β4 (p=0.025) in the Noonan syndrome. In the West syndrome, only the defensin α1 had a statistically significant difference with the other groups (p=0.022). Proteomic analysis revealed an overexpression of peptides related to the innate (thymosin β4) and acquired (defensin α1, α3) immunity. West and Noonan's syndromes showed the overexpression of molecular biomarkers involved in the pathogenesis of chronic periodontitis. The inflammatory status is triggered and amplified by the abnormal overgrowth of gingival tissues, the amplified release of proinflammatory cytokines from the immune cells, and the poor cooperation in maintaining adequate oral hygiene.

Correlates of childhood caries: A study in Qatar.

The prevalance of dental caries in children in Qatar is high, which necessitates preventive efforts. To identify the sociodemographic and behavioural correlates of dental caries in the primary dentition of children 4- to 8-year-olds in Qatar. Weighted data from the Qatar Child Oral Health Survey 2017 were analysed for caries prevalence (dmft>0) and experience (dmft). Sociodemographic and behavioural variables were also drawn from the survey. Among the 1154 children, caries prevalence was 69.3% (95%CI [63.4, 74.5]) and experience at 3.8 dmft (95%CI [3.3, 4.2]). The prevalence ratio (PR) 0.82 (0.72, 0.94) was lower among younger than in older children; those for non-Qatari nationality Arabic PR 0.91 (0.82, 1.00) and Other PR 0.75 (0.57, 0.99) than for Qatari nationality; those attending international kindergartens/schools PR 0.89 (0.80, 0.99) than independent schools; and whose parents had university-level education PR 0.85 (0.75,0.95) than did not. Caries prevalence was lower among those toothbrushing by age 3 years PR 0.88 (0.80,0.99) than later; children with low/intermediate sugar exposures PR 0.85 (0.74,0.97) and 0.89 (0.79,1.00) than those with high exposures; children with a dental check-up PR 0.68 (0.53,0.87) than those without; and children who drank bottled water with some fluoride PR 0.89 (0.80,0.99) than those who did not. Findings were similar for dmft. In conclusion caries prevalence varied but was high across sociodemographic correlates indicating vulnerablity. Interventions focusing on behaviours - such as toothbrushing, reducing sugar intake, check-up and encouraging intake of water with fluoride - are needed.

Prevalence of dental caries and oral hygiene practices among elderly people: a descriptive cross-sectional study from Nepal

Background: Dental caries is one of the most prevalent oral diseases of public health concern affecting elder people. The main reasons for caries arise in elderly people are increase in sugar consumption, poor oral hygiene, microbial plaque, periodontal disease, dietary habits, low socioeconomic status and infrequent dental visits. The oral hygiene is essential to general health and quality of life. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 246 elder people. Systematic random sampling was used for data collection. The data collection was done between 15 April to 07 May 2017. Results: The overall prevalence of dental caries in study population was 88.57%. The mean DMFT of all study participants was 17.13 (SD=10.48; participants were allocated a DMFT of 32). Majority of elder people (56.33%) had experience of pain and discomfort in their teeth within 12 months. The gender, marital status, diet, socio-economic status, medication, method of cleaning, frequency of cleaning, dental visit and tobacco chewing were factors that determines dental caries. Regular dental checkup (11%) was very poor. Majority of respondents preferred tea with sugar, biscuits/cake, chocolate and soft drinks (64%). Conclusions: The study showed that the prevalence of dental caries among elderly people in Rajdevi Rural Municipality, Rautahat District, Nepal was high. The awareness should be provided to local residents regarding the importance of good brushing habits and regular dental visits. Oral health policies are needed revised and implemented focusing on the special needs of this population to improve their quality of life.

Early diagnosis of aortic calcification through dental X-ray examination for dental pulp stones

Vascular calcification, an ectopic calcification exacerbated by aging and renal dysfunction, is closely associated with cardiovascular disease. However, early detection indicators are limited. This study focused on dental pulp stones, ectopic calcifications found in oral tissues that are easily identifiable on dental radiographs. Our investigation explored the frequency and timing of these calcifications in different locations and their relationship to aortic calcification. In cadavers, we examined the association between the frequency of dental pulp stones and aortic calcification, revealing a significant association. Notably, dental pulp stones appeared prior to aortic calcification. Using a rat model of hyperphosphatemia, we confirmed that dental pulp stones formed earlier than calcification in the aortic arch. Interestingly, there were very few instances of aortic calcification without dental pulp stones. Additionally, we conducted cell culture experiments with vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and dental pulp cells (DPCs) to explore the regulatory mechanism underlying high phosphate-mediated calcification. We found that DPCs produced calcification deposits more rapidly and exhibited a stronger augmentation of osteoblast differentiation markers compared with SMCs. In conclusion, the observation of dental pulp stones through X-ray examination during dental checkups could be a valuable method for early diagnosis of aortic calcification risk.

Timing of Primary Tooth Eruption in Infants Observed by Their Parents.

The timing of primary teeth eruption is a visible indicator of infant physical growth other than body weight or height. It also reflects neurological integrity and development as well as nutrition, socioeconomic state, or underlying diseases. Therefore, the timing of primary teeth eruption is one of the major concerns for parents in health checkups for infants and children. However, the detailed developmental timing of teeth eruption differs depending on the survey methodology, country, or generation. We hypothesized that the timing of primary teeth eruption differs between the medical checkup by dentists and the daily records by parents. We conducted a questionnaire survey on the date of eruption of primary teeth as an adjunct study among Miyagi Regional Center participants in the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS), a large-scale birth cohort study. A total of 1695 responses (3793 participants) were analyzed. The median ages of eruption were 7.1 months (male) and 7.6 months (female) for mandibular primary central incisors, 8.7 months (male) and 9.2 months (female) for maxillary primary central incisors, 10.0 months (male) and 10.3 months (female) for maxillary primary lateral incisors, and 10.4 months (male) and 10.8 months (female) for mandibular primary lateral incisors, which were earlier than the reported timings based on dental check-ups. Comparing the eruption time of preterm and term infants, the eruption time was earlier in preterm infants in the corrected ages. The eruption timing observed and described by the parents is earlier than that examined by dentists at regular check-ups. In addition to examining the primary teeth eruption of full-term birth children, we also examined that of preterm birth children because of the increasing number of premature births. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report from a large cohort study to clarify the eruption time of primary teeth monitored by parents.

Prevalence of dental caries in pregnant Colombian women and its associated factors

ObjectiveTo identify the prevalence of dental caries in pregnant women in the Colombian population and its association with the medical history and social determinants, based on data from the fourth National Oral Health Survey (ENSAB IV).Materials and methodsA total of 1,047 pregnant women from different areas of Colombia were evaluated. A dental evaluation was performed using a flat oral mirror and blunt-tipped probe (World Health Organization, 2007). For diagnosis of the dental condition, the DMFT index was used. A negative binomial regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between social determinants and the DMFT index.ResultsThe results of this national study show a 59% prevalence of caries in this population. Regarding the experience of caries, 89.9% of pregnant women showed having had caries.ConclusionsThe results of this national study on pregnant women show a high prevalence of dental caries. The women’s level of education is an important factor associated with dental caries and filled teeth, so the role of oral health education and dental check-ups are important.Clinical relevanceThe findings of this study show the oral health situation of pregnant women, with a high prevalence of dental caries. This leads to the development and strengthening of oral health education strategies that empower pregnant women in their care. In addition, dental checkups during pregnancy should be implemented and reinforced to prevent and treat oral pathologies and thus prevent complications during this stage.

Headache, Vertigo in a Teenage Dental Patient

A 13-year-old female patient presented to the dental office for routine dental checkup and correction of her proclined teeth through braces. Patient’s medical history suggested that the patient suffers from frequent episodes of headache, vertigo, dizziness and confusion. These episodes are random and have begun after the onset of menarche. Her physician diagnosed it as migraine and had prescribed medications which are helping with the headache but the episodes still happen at random. Routine lateral cephalometric x-ray done for orthodontic diagnosis, revealed a bony bridge on the posterosuperior articular process of atlas (C1 vertebra).

A distinctive subgingival microbiome in patients with periodontitis and Alzheimer's disease compared with cognitively unimpaired periodontitis patients.

Periodontitis is caused by dysbiosis of oral microbes and is associated with increased cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD), and recently, a potential functional link was proposed between oral microbes and AD. We compared the oral microbiomes of patients with or without AD to evaluate the association between oral microbes and AD in periodontitis. Periodontitis patients with AD (n = 15) and cognitively unimpaired periodontitis patients (CU) (n = 14) were recruited for this study. Each patient underwent an oral examination and neuropsychological evaluation. Buccal, supragingival and subgingival plaque samples were collected, and microbiomes were analysed by next-generation sequencing. Alpha diversity, beta diversity, linear discriminant analysis effect size, analysis of variance-like differential expression analysis and network analysis were used to compare group oral microbiomes. All 29 participants had moderate to severe periodontitis. Group buccal and supragingival samples were indistinguishable, but subgingival samples demonstrated significant alpha and beta diversity differences. Differential analysis showed subgingival samples of the AD group had higher prevalence of Atopobium rimae, Dialister pneumosintes, Olsenella sp. HMT 807, Saccharibacteria (TM7) sp. HMT 348 and several species of Prevotella than the CU group. Furthermore, subgingival microbiome network analysis revealed a distinct, closely connected network in the AD group comprised of various Prevotella spp. and several anaerobic bacteria. A unique microbial composition was discovered in the subgingival region in the AD group. Specifically, potential periodontal pathogens were found to be more prevalent in the subgingival plaque samples of the AD group. These bacteria may possess a potential to worsen periodontitis and other systemic diseases. We recommend that AD patients receive regular, careful dental check-ups to ensure proper oral hygiene management.

Tooth brushing with fluoridated toothpaste and associated factors among Chinese adolescents: a nationwide cross-sectional study

BackgroundTooth brushing with fluoridated toothpaste has become the most important way to provide the anti-caries effect of fluoride around the world. China has promoted the use of fluoridated toothpaste since 1989. However, there are few studies on the national profile of use of fluoridated toothpaste and related factors in Chinese adolescents. We carried out this study to investigate oral hygiene behaviours, especially the status of tooth brushing with fluoridated toothpaste and its correlates among adolescents, based on data from the latest Nation Oral Health Survey in mainland China.MethodsThis cross-sectional study recruited 118,601 participants aged 12–15 years using multistage stratified sampling. Questionnaires were completed by students at school. Data employed in analyses were extracted from the questionnaire, including information on tooth brushing, fluoridated toothpaste, dental floss, sociodemographic factors, fluoride knowledge and attitude towards regular dental check-ups. A binary logistic regression was performed to compute the odds ratios (OR). Tooth brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste was the dependent variable. Sociodemographic factors, fluoride knowledge, attitude towards regular dental check-ups, dental visit experience and perceived oral health were the independent variables. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsA total of 32.6% of participants brushed their teeth twice daily, 7.4% used fluoridated toothpaste, and 3.9% cleaned their teeth twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste. The logistic regression showed the probability of twice-a-day tooth brushing with fluoridated toothpaste was higher among these groups: females (OR: 1.141; 95%CI: 1.072–1.214), 15-year-olds (OR: 1.786; 95%CI: 1.634–1.952), from urban areas (OR: 1.389; 95%CI: 1.288–1.497), without siblings (OR: 1.351; 95%CI: 1.259–1.450), with an educated father (OR: 1. 605; 95%CI: 1.442–1.788) and mother (OR: 1.706; 95%CI: 1.530–1.903), having dental visit experiences (OR: 1.702; 95%CI: 1.589–1.823), rating one’s oral health as good (OR: 2.341; 95%CI: 2.083–2.631), having fluoride knowledge (OR: 4.345; 95%CI: 4.034–4.678) and having a positive attitude towards regular dental check-ups (OR: 1.589; 95%CI: 1.460–1.729).ConclusionsThe oral hygiene behaviours of Chinese adolescents were undesirable. Twice daily tooth brushing with fluoridated toothpaste was significantly associated with sociodemographic factors, fluoride knowledge, and attitudes towards regular dental check-ups.

Knowledge on Oral Hygiene Maintenance of Children Aged 6 to 9 Years Attending at the OPD of a Tertiary Care Dental Hospital in Dhaka City

Background: Knowledge from pre-primary school about the prevention of dental caries is better before the disease process has starte. Objective: The purpose of this study was to observe the knowledge of oral health maintenance among the children of 6 to 9 years old such as regular tooth brushing, uses of oral hygiene aids and dental attendance to maintain their good oral health for a life time. Methodology: This cross-sectional study conducted in Dhaka Dental College and Hospital, Bangladesh study was carried out from October 2019 to September 2020. A total of 175 participants children aged 6-9 years attending at the OPD with dental Caries in Dhaka Dental College Hospital were the study population. The study population were Included Children aged 6 to 9 years in Dhaka dental college and hospital who were available and wished to participate. The questionnaire was used in this study pre-tested before the data collection, data was collected using semi-structured questionnaire by face-to-face interview. Results: A total of 175 participants children aged 6 to 9 years attending at the OPD with dental Caries in Dhaka Dental College Hospital were the study population. The knowledge according to the correct method of tooth brushing to keep healthy teeth which were significant with their age and education. The study revealed the knowledge according to the correct method of tooth brushing to keep healthy teeth which were not significant among both gender (P=0.000038) and level of education (P=0.00001). The knowledge according to cleaning teeth and mouth after each meal to keep healthy teeth which were significant only with their age (P=0.00027) and same as knowledge according the to relation of food or drinks with healthy teeth which were significant with their age(P=0 .00729) and education significant level (P=0.001185), the knowledge according to poor oral health causes of dental problem which were significant with their education level (P=0.002524) and knowledge to the necessity of dental check-up at least once in year which were significant with their age(P=0.04237) and education level (P=0.002524). Conclusion: In conclusion, it is found that a significant association between the education level and age of children have good knowledge of oral health hygiene to prevent dental caries among the young children who are more prone to develop the diseases. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Microbiology, January 2023;17 (1):15-20

Food Insecurity and Dental Caries in Rural Mexican Populations.

Food insecurity (FI) is a priority for government and health organizations. Over 95% of the world's population has a carious lesion or will develop one before death. This study evaluated the association between FI and oral health in two rural communities in Chiapas, Mexico. The study was conducted with patients attending an oral health campaign for dental checkups. Data were collected between April and August 2017 using the Latin-American and Caribbean Scale of Food Security (ELCSA) and the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS). We included 209 participants from Siltepec and Huehuetan, Mexico; 67% were women. The results of the ELCSA were mild FI in 43% (n = 91), moderate FI in 22% (n = 45), and severe FI (n = 6) in 3%; 32% had food security. The ICDAS results were initial decay with a mean of 6.22, moderate decay with a mean of 1.81, and extensive decay with a mean of 1.77. FI is associated with dental caries, and food-insecure individuals have a higher probability of severe dental caries. In this study, the FI level was lower than in other rural populations in Mexico. Identifying these individuals and addressing the factors related to FI can be useful in the rural communities.

The impact of parental oral health behaviors on the oral health of children

This review underscores the crucial role of parental oral health behaviors in shaping the oral health of children. It highlights the significance of parental knowledge, attitudes, and actions in influencing children's oral hygiene practices and overall well-being. Mothers, in particular, play a pivotal role in guiding their children's oral health habits. Parental oral health behaviors encompass a wide range of practices, including regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene routines, diet choices, and the avoidance of harmful habits like smoking and excessive sugar consumption. Active parental involvement in their children's oral care routines during their formative years is instrumental in establishing strong oral hygiene habits. Parents serve as primary role models and educators for their children, leading by example in maintaining good oral health practices. Encouraging parental engagement in oral health promotion programs is crucial for better oral health outcomes in future generations. Public health initiatives should emphasize the importance of parental involvement and provide resources and education to help parents instill sound oral health practices in their children. Recognizing the interconnectedness of oral health with overall well-being, it becomes evident that parental involvement is critical, especially for children who are vulnerable to oral health issues. Parents not only nurture and educate but also shape their children's oral health habits and attitudes. Additionally, contextual factors such as social, cultural, environmental, and economic conditions significantly influence family life and, consequently, oral health attitudes and behaviors.

UK general population's willingness to pay for dental check-ups.

Choices about which dental treatments to provide in a publicly funded system should be guided by the value that the general population place on those treatments. The aim of this study was to estimate United Kingdom (UK) general population willingness to pay (WTP) for dental check-ups, and to investigate what factors influence WTP. WTP was elicited using a hypothetical question in an online survey. The sample consisted of 594 participants, nationally representative of the UK general population in terms of age and gender. Regression analysis was used to examine what factors are associated with WTP. Analyses were conducted including and excluding protest answers. The mean WTP for a dental check-up is £31.32 for the full sample and £33.17 excluding protest answers. Respondents on higher incomes and those with higher university education had higher WTP. Respondents in Scotland were WTP less than respondents living in the rest of the UK which may be the result of NHS dental check-ups being free to patients in Scotland. The general UK population value dental check-ups. This study provides estimates of WTP for dental check-ups which can be used in Cost-Benefit Analyses.

Состояние слизистой оболочки рта у рабочих города Рязани

INTRODUCTION: Malignant neoplasms are the cause of significant socio-economic losses of society, and therefore their early diagnosis, as well as the diagnosis of precancerous diseases and the identification of risk factors for their occurrence remain urgent tasks of medicine. AIM: To study the prevalence of precancerous and oncological diseases of the oral mucosa (OM) in workers of Ryazan State Instrument–Making Enterprise (RSIME). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In May–June 2022, 301 employees of RSIME aged from 19 to 74 years were examined for the first time. During the examination, a clinical dental check-up and autofluorescence stomatoscopy were performed. The results of the examination were recorded in a card for assessing the dental status of adults, approved by World Health Organization. RESULTS: After a preventive examination of the workers of RSIME, 30.6% of the examined patients were found to have diseases and pathological changes in the OM, 9.8% was diagnosed with leukoplakia. From the total number of examined patients: 25.9% have a sanitized mouth, 32.9% smoke, and the most of smokers are people from 19 to 44 years old. CONCLUSION: The data obtained confirm the expediency of regular periodic medical examinations using screening diagnostic methods.

Occurrences of Dental Diseases in Dogs in a Teaching Animal Hospital, Morogoro, Tanzania

Dental diseases are common in dogs with a prevalence of more than 80% in some breeds of dogs. They cause damage to oral health and may act as a source of bacteria causing other diseases such as endocarditis, pneumonia and arthritis. A cross section study was conducted to determine the current status on the occurrence of dental diseases in dogs attended at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) Teaching Animal Hospital in Morogoro, Tanzania. A total of 87 dogs were examined macroscopically for the presence of dental diseases. Dogs examined in this study ranged from medium (93.1%) to large (6.9%) sized, and up to 73.6% were mixed-breed. The minimum and maximum ages of the dogs were 6 and 72 months, respectively, with majority being females (60.9%). The proportions of intact, spayed and castrated were 92%, 5.8% and 2.3%, respectively. Of the 87 dogs examined, 62.1% had different kinds of dental diseases. The frequently observed dental diseases were; dental deposits (43.7%), missing teeth (24.1%), periodontal disease (20.7%), dental attrition (16.1%), and dental abrasion (10.3%). Further, it was noted that none of the dogs had been previous underwent routine dental check-up or anaesthetised for dental cleaning. This study indicates that dental diseases are frequent in dogs attended at SUA Teaching Animal Hospital. Therefore, it is recommended that routine dental examination should be performed in dogs presented at the Teaching Animal Hospital. Further, there is a need for educating dog breeders and owners on the importance of dental home care.