Dental Health Professionals Research Articles

Wpływ przewlekłego stresu na zdrowie jamy ustnej: przegląd literatury

Chronic stress, particularly in the context of post-traumatic stress disorder, has significant implications for oral health due to its multifaceted physiological, psychological, and behavioral effects. This review outlines the key mechanisms and clinical consequences of chronic stress on oral health outcomes, drawing on findings from a systematic review of 16 studies. Post-traumatic stress disorder has been strongly associated with an increased prevalence of periodontitis, bruxism, xerostomia, and temporomandibular disorders. Chronic activation of the stress response disrupts autonomic regulation and systemic immune function, exacerbating oral health conditions. Behavioral factors such as poor oral hygiene and increased tobacco use further contribute to periodontal disease, while psychological stress amplifies pain perception in conditions like temporomandibular disorders and chronic orofacial pain. Pharmacological treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, while effective in managing psychological symptoms, frequently cause hyposalivation, leading to xerostomia and increased risk of dental caries and periodontal disease. Bruxism, prevalent among individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder, is strongly linked to elevated stress levels, resulting in significant wear and damage to teeth, as well as contributing to orofacial pain and temporomandibular disorders. Insomnia and sleep disturbances, common among post-traumatic stress disorder sufferers, impair immune function and tissue regeneration, further heightening susceptibility to oral infections and delaying wound healing. The bidirectional relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder and chronic orofacial pain underscores the need for integrated care that addresses both physical and psychological health. Multidisciplinary approaches incorporating trauma-informed care and tailored oral health interventions are critical for mitigating the oral health challenges faced by individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder. These strategies not only improve oral health outcomes but also enhance overall well-being by addressing systemic inflammation and psychological distress. Future research should focus on optimizing treatment protocols and fostering collaboration between dental and mental health professionals.

Tannkrem: Ikke-terapeutiske tilsetningsstoffer

English summary Toothpastes: Non-therapeutic additives Nor Tannlegeforen Tid. 2025 Toothpaste, an essential part of daily oral care, is a paste or gel used with a toothbrush to clean the teeth. It provides a feeling of freshness and a pleasant taste, while removing superficial stains. Although brushing with toothpaste is the most widely used method for mechanical tooth cleaning, effective plaque removal primarily depends on a suitable toothbrush, correct brushing technique, and brushing duration, rather than the toothpaste itself. Toothpaste is classified as a cosmetic product, but it also functions as a prophylactic and therapeutic agent due to its fluoride content that prevents dental caries and remineralizes the enamel. Toothpaste is a complex chemical mixture that contains numerous non-therapeutic additives to provide a good user experience. New additives are continually being introduced, which can make the market overwhelming for consumers. This underscores the need for well-informed dental health professionals to guide patients. This article presents a detailed overview of non-therapeutic additives in conventional fluoride toothpastes and their impact on the properties and functions of the products. These additives provide the products with the desired abrasiveness, moisture level, foaming effect, consistency, flavor, aroma, color, pH level, and shelf life. Finally, the clinical relevance of the non-therapeutic ingredients and the potential harmful effects of abrasives and surfactants are discussed. The ongoing debate regarding the use of the pigment titanium dioxide in toothpaste is also addressed.

Knowledge and awareness of preexposure and postexposure prophylaxis of HIV infection among medical and dental health professionals

BACKGROUND:HIV is a growing infectious condition around the world. An increased awareness and knowledge regarding preexposure and postexposure regimens for HIV is required, especially among the healthcare professionals including students.AIM:The present study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of preexposure and postexposure prophylaxis of HIV infection among medical and dental health professionals in India.MATERIALS AND METHODS:This cross-sectional, observational questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 500 study participants comprised of healthcare professionals including physicians, dentist, nurses, physiotherapists, and students (both undergraduate and postgraduates). A prevalidated questionnaire was distributed via electronic mail to all the subjects, and responses were recorded in a Microsoft Excel worksheet. One-way ANOVA was applied for analyzing any statistical significance between knowledge regarding preexposure and postexposure prophylaxis. Inclusion criteria included subjects above 18 years of age and those who were licensed practitioners. Exclusion criteria included subjects with incomplete response and nonlicensed practitioner.RESULTS:Statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) was observed on comparing responses between preexposure and postexposure prophylaxis. However, very less knowledge and awareness was noted for preexposure prophylaxis in the studied sample.CONCLUSION:There appears to be less knowledge and awareness concerning availability of preexposure medications among Indian practitioners. Hence, an appropriate modification in curriculum and exposure to practitioners is of primary importance at the present time.

Advising patients with dental and oral soft tissue pain Free CPD for dentists and other dental health professionals.

Advising patients with dental and oral soft tissue pain Free CPD for dentists and other dental health professionals.

The Relationship Between the Perceived Personality Traits of Dentists, Dental Anxiety, Negative Stories, and Negative Experiences with Dental Treatment: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background/Objectives: Negative stories about dentists are prevalent in mass media and in social discourse. This study explores the associations between dental anxiety, negative dental stories, and negative dental experiences, and how these phenomena are related to the perception of dentists' personality traits. Methods: An anonymous electronic survey was distributed among students at UiT The Arctic University of Norway, and 118 students chose to participate in the study. The questionnaire included questions on dental anxiety, negative stories about dental treatment, negative experiences of dental treatment, and ratings of dentists' personality traits. Results: Almost half of the participants (46%) had at least one negative dental experience, while the majority (80%) of the participants had heard a negative story about the dentist. There were significant differences in the ratings of dentists' personality traits based on having previous negative dental experiences and based on dental anxiety scores. Participants without negative dental experiences and with low dental anxiety rated the dentist more favorably in terms of personality traits than anxious participants or participants with negative dental experiences. Negative dental treatment experiences (OR 10.35; p < 0.001) and rating dentists as having low extraversion (OR 0.34; p < 0.05) emerged as the most important predictors of high dental anxiety. Conclusions: The interplay between negative stories about the dentist, dental anxiety, and negative dental experiences should be explored further, as well as the impact of the perceived personality traits of dental health professionals.

Parents’ perceived barriers and enablers to providing optimal infant oral care

BackgroundEarly childhood caries (tooth decay) can adversely affect child growth, development and well-being and is a leading cause of preventable hospitalisation for pre-school aged children. This necessitates the introduction of preventive measures in infancy, including twice daily toothbrushing and timely dental visits. This study explored the barriers and enablers parents face in providing optimal oral care for their young children.MethodsWe interviewed Australian parents with 0-36-month-old children about two key behaviours related to their child’s oral health: (1) the timing of first dental visit and (2) twice daily toothbrushing. Parents were recruited via social media advertising and all interviews were conducted online via Zoom. Interviews were based on a semi-structured interview guide mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). All interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. Data was coded to the TDF, summarised, and categorised as a barrier or enabler before being grouped into themes and sub-themes using framework analysis.ResultsFifteen interviews were completed between May 2022– May 2023. Thirteen of the 14 TDF domains were represented in the data. The three most dominant TDF domains across the dataset were social influences, environmental context and resources, and knowledge. Four themes were developed from the data: (1) Conflict, (2) Family and social norms, (3) Wanting a positive oral health experience, and (4) Uncertainty. These themes represent both barriers and enablers to optimal infant and young children’s oral care. Parents face complex decision-making challenges regarding their young children’s oral health care, particularly managing actual and perceived conflicts with their child. Knowledge and social and family norms influence their approach to managing these barriers.ConclusionsThe key influences enabling or preventing optimal infant oral care identified in this study lay the foundation for interventions to target these behaviours. To encourage a timely first dental visit, parents need consistent messaging from dental and other health professionals. To encourage twice daily toothbrushing, parents need more support in managing their child’s behaviour and competing priorities.

Impact of Dental Procedures on Hereditary Angioedema Attacks: An Exploratory Observational Study.

To evaluate hereditary angioedema (HAE) attack frequency associated with dental procedures, determine whether patients with post-dental procedural attacks receive more appropriate treatment after their condition is diagnosed, and investigate the potential impact of perceived risk on patients seeking dental care and dental professionals providing it. The observational study included all the eligible adults from the Romanian Hereditary Angioedema Registry who provided informed consent. The impact of dental procedures on the HAE attacks was measured using a structured questionnaire including 20 questions administered via telephone. Patients experienced dental procedure-related symptoms suggestive of HAE both before (47.6%) and after their condition was diagnosed (51.9%). Before the HAE diagnosis, 86.2% of the patients received glucocorticoids and antihistamines for post-procedural swelling. After diagnosis, 85.3% of the patients were given Icatibant and C1-INH. More than half (55.3%) of the patients reported not seeking dental interventions because of fear of HAE attacks or anticipation of refusal, and 24.7% of them declared they had been denied dental care by dental health professionals at least once. Swelling related to dental procedures was common among the studied HAE patients. Unwarranted medications used before HAE diagnosis for dental post-procedural symptoms were replaced by adequate HAE-specific medications in most patients with established HAE diagnosis. A statistically significant proportion of patients refrained from undergoing dental interventions, and some of them were refused dental care by oral health professionals due to fear of HAE attacks.

Knowledge and Perceptions of Dentists Regarding E-Cigarettes: Implications for Oral Health and Public Awareness and Education.

Background/Objectives: The rising popularity of e-cigarette use is creating new challenges for oral healthcare. Factors such as targeted marketing, appealing flavors, and the perception that e-cigarettes are a safer alternative to traditional smoking have contributed to their widespread adoption. This trend is particularly prevalent among young adults and teenagers, many of whom turn to e-cigarettes despite having no prior history of regular cigarette use. This study aimed to evaluate dentists' knowledge and perceptions regarding e-cigarettes, focusing on their health effects, regulatory status, and potential risks to oral health. Assessing dentists' knowledge of e-cigarette risks is important, as they guide patients on the potential oral health dangers of vaping. E-cigarette use has been linked to several oral health problems. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 189 dentists in Kosovo, comprising both general dentists and specialists. The questionnaire assessed participants' awareness of e-cigarettes' FDA approval status, their perceptions of health impacts, and their understanding of e-cigarettes' association with oral conditions such as caries, periodontal disease, and oral cancer. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The findings revealed significant knowledge gaps, with 74.1% of respondents being uncertain about the FDA approval status of e-cigarettes and 82.0% recognizing their harmful effects on general and oral health. Nearly half (49.7%) of the participants identified e-cigarettes as a potential risk factor for caries, while 66.1% and 64.6% associated their use with oral cancer and periodontal disease, respectively. Gender and professional specialization did not significantly influence these perceptions. Conclusions: Dentists need better education on the risks of e-cigarette use, including their harmful effects on oral health. Incorporating this knowledge into dental curricula and professional training is essential to give dentists the information needed to advise patients effectively. Raising public awareness through dental health professionals can help mitigate the oral health risks associated with e-cigarettes.

Environmental Factors Increasing the Risk of Poor Posture in Dental Hygiene Students.

This study examined the relationship between environmental factors (e.g., working position, patient position, and scaling instruments) and poor posture in dental hygiene students. A longitudinal cohort study was conducted from 2017 to 2019 to observe dental hygiene students' clinical rotation performance at two undergraduate universities. Samples of video observations (n = 1487) of dental hygiene students performing scaling activities during oral care sessions were evaluated using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). Descriptive analysis and exploratory prediction modeling were performed to assess clinical environmental factors that predicted higher risks of developing WMSDs. RULA scores (mean = 4.8, median = 5, range = 2-7) indicate dental hygiene students are at high risk of developing upper extremity MSDs. The type of scaling instrument, clock positioning relative to the patient, and sitting versus standing had statistically significant associations (p<0.001) with the RULA outcome. In univariate analyses, clock positions 7 and 8 were the worst, having an increased risk of poor RULA outcomes (scores 5-7) by nearly nine times over working in clock position 12 (odds ratio [OR] 9.11, 95% CI 5.48-15.60). Multivariate predictive modeling indicated that the riskiest combination of factors is using a manual scaling instrument (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.28-2.18), standing (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.03-1.96), and working clock positions 7 and 8 (OR 8.4, 95% CI 5.02-14.50). There is a need to consider the combined contribution of multiple environmental factors on working positions to optimize ergonomic training during dental hygiene and protect emerging dental health professionals from the negative health impacts of prolonged awkward postures.

Severe Tooth Loss and Cardiovascular Disease Among Older Adults in Hawai'i: A Cross-Sectional Study of Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Data from 2012 to 2020.

Despite mounting evidence of the link between oral health and systemic health, there are limited studies on individual- and community-level race/ethnic and socioeconomic correlates of tooth loss and cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly with regard to Asian and Indigenous populations. This cross-sectional study examined the association between severe tooth loss and CVD and the individual- and community-level sociodemographic correlates of CVD in Hawai'i, where Native Hawaiian and Asian populations are predominant, utilizing 5 waves of even year data from the Hawai'i Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System collected between 2012 and 2020. Weighted Poisson regression was used to estimate the unadjusted and adjusted prevalence of CVD. Independent variables included demographic variables (age, sex, race and ethnicity), socioeconomic status indicators (education, annual household income, health insurance), and health-related variables (BMI, smoking status, diabetes). A significant association was revealed between severe tooth loss and CVD, which persisted (but was attenuated) with adjustment for sociodemographic and health variables. There were also disparities in CVD prevalence by race and ethnicity (Native Hawaiians had a higher prevalence than White respondents, even after adjustment) and community. The tooth loss-CVD linkage, and racial/ethnic disparities in the prevalence of CVD, point to the importance of a holistic, multi-level approach to public health and collaboration between medical and dental health professionals.

Caries de la primera infancia. Visión de conjunto actualizada. Revisión narrativa de la literatura

Objective: The purpose of this literature review is to gather updated information on diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines for early childhood caries. Material and methods: PubMed, Embase, Ovid, Cochrane Central and Google Scholar were searched for appropriate articles up to 5 years old (up to January 2018 inclusive). 229 studies were identified, including 13 clinical trials that discussed different treatment modalities for teeth affected by this disease. Conclusion: Early childhood caries is an increasingly common disease and is a condition that presents a unique set of clinical challenges for dental health professionals. This updated information recommends starting treatment as early as possible to eliminate the risk of increased cavitations because of early childhood dental caries and its consequences in these patients.

Oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers in Texas: examining incidence rates in dental health professional shortage areas.

Oral cavity (OC) and oropharyngeal (OP) cancer rates have increased annually rising in the U.S. and Texas. Dental providers could play a key role in lowering OC/OP cancer rates through prevention and screening, but Texas faces a significant shortage of dental health professionals, affecting access to dental care, including OC/OP cancer prevention and early detection. This study aims to explore the link between OC/OP cancer rates and these dental shortage areas in Texas. We analyzed OC/OP cancer incidence in Texas using SEER-Medicare data for patients aged 65 and over from 2012 to 2017. Rates per 100,000 were stratified by age, gender, and dental health provider shortage area (DHPSA) status (yes/no). Zero-Inflated Poisson Regression models were used to adjust for patient characteristics in studying cancer incidence, Late-stage diagnoses were assessed using logistic regression. The incidence rate was 27.3 per 100,000 people in Texas. DHPSA counties had lower incidence rates (24.3 per 100,000) compared to non-DHPSA counties (29.8 per 100,000; p = 0.0423). Among patients with OC/OP diagnoses, those living in a DHPSA county had lower odds of advanced stage diagnoses (aOR: 0.79; CI: 0.64-0.96) than those in non-DHPSA counties. The findings highlight the complex link between dental providers and OC/OP cancer diagnoses, noting differences in indicators of need based on DHPSA location. Limited local dental services may lead to underreported cancer cases. Further research on dental service usage could improve OC/OP outcomes by prioritizing interventions from dental professionals.

Knowledge and Attitude toward Deprofessionalization among Dental Health Professionals – A Questionnaire-based Survey

Abstract Background: Deprofessionalization is a process where less-qualified individuals are used to perform work which is done by appropriately qualified individuals. Inequity in the distribution of healthcare services leads to the disparity in dentists in urban and rural areas leading to increased unmet dental needs. To tackle these, community health workers (CHWs) can be trained by the dentists to provide oral health education. This can be achieved by assessing dentists’ knowledge and attitude toward deprofessionalization and their willingness to train CHWs. Methodology: The present survey was conducted among 300 dental health professionals. Online questionnaire link was constructed using the Google survey tool of Gmail comprising 13 questions. For descriptive and frequency statistics, SPSS 27 was used. Results: About 94.1% of the study population thought that it is important for dentists to be posted in government health centers. About 64.4% thought that the provision of basic oral health services by trained CHWs would be beneficial. About 66.3% supported training CHWs in providing basic oral health care. Conclusion: Training CHWs will improve their ability to motivate patients in rural India to utilize oral healthcare services.

Effectiveness of Training Module on Improving Knowledge on Minamata Convention and Best Mercury Hygiene Practices among Dental Professionals in India

Abstract Background: Mercury is a highly toxic heavy metal and is one of the top 10 chemicals of major public health concern, according to the World Health Organization. The utilization of mercury in dental amalgam raises concerns about it being an environmental hazard and requires vigilant protocols to be followed during clinical practice. The Minamata Convention (MC) is a global treaty aimed at protecting human health and the environment from the adverse effects of mercury. Studies have been conducted in the past assessing knowledge, attitude, and practice among dentists and patients; however, an interventional strategy using a training module to sensitize dental professionals on mercury hygiene practices and to assess the effectiveness of the training module has not been utilized in the past. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge regarding mercury hygiene practices among dental professionals and to evaluate the effectiveness of a training module in improving their knowledge regarding best mercury hygiene practices. Materials and Methods: An interventional study using a training module was conducted with a self-administered pre- and post-questionnaire on 55 dental professionals to assess the knowledge of the participants regarding mercury hygiene practices. Results: A significant (P = 0.01) increase in the mean knowledge scores from 3.89 ± 1.54 to 5.47 ± 1.63 of dental professionals was seen after the training program. About 43% of dental health professionals agreed that dental amalgam is a cause of environmental hazards. Conclusion: The dentists were not well informed about dental amalgam causing environmental hazards. There exists a significant gap in knowledge regarding mercury hygiene and the MC among dental professionals. As India has ratified the MC, there is a need for strong implementation of MC guidelines to prevent contamination of the environment by mercury.

Factors influencing engagement in oral cancer prevention activities among dental students and professionals in Saudi Arabia

BackgroundOral cancer is a pressing health concern in the Saudi Arabia (SA), with rising incidence and mortality rates. Despite the efforts in raising awareness, gaps persist in knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to oral cancer prevention (OCP) among dental health professionals. This study aimed to identify the key factors influencing engagement in oral cancer prevention activities among dental students and professionals in Saudi. It examines the impact of socio-demographic characteristics and assesses their KAP related to oral cancer prevention.MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2023 and February 2024 using a pre-validated online questionnaire distributed among oral health providers across various regions and sectors in SA. The survey included questions about participants’ KAP toward OCP. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the data.ResultsOut of 400 oral health providers invited, 157 completed the survey. The findings showed a discrepancy between knowledge and practice. While awareness of OC was generally high, this did not consistently lead to favourable attitudes or effective practices. The engagement in OCP activities was significantly associated with good knowledge, practice and favourable attitude scores. Profession significantly influenced participation, with clinicians (P = 0.013, OR = 0.131, 95% CI: 0.026–0.653) and those in administrative roles (P = 0.030, OR = 0.101, 95% CI: 0.013–0.804) both less likely to participate compared to dental students. Knowledge was a significant predictor (P = 0.002), with providers demonstrating poor knowledge being far less likely to participate (OR = 0.053, 95% CI: 0.008–0.339).ConclusionThe study identified a critical need for enhancing OCP education and training among oral health providers in SA. The findings indicate that continuous, targeted, and culturally sensitive training could bridge the existing KAP gap, potentially leading to improved early detection and management of OC, thereby reducing its morbidity and mortality rates in the region.

Factors Influencing the Oral Health Behaviours of Autistic Children and Young People: A Qualitative Study.

Poor oral health (OH) in childhood can cause pain, affect quality of life and significantly impact adult OH. Autistic children and young people (CYP) experience inequalities in OH and are at higher risk of cavities and gum disease than neurotypical CYP. To provide evidence and insights into the factors affecting the OH behaviours of ACYP from the perspective of ACYP, their parents/carers and Dental Health Professionals (DHPs). Semi-structured online or face-to-face interviews were conducted with CYP, parents/carers and DHPs in Southwest England. Nineteen ACYP (aged 5-18 years old), 20 parents/carers and 16 DHPs were interviewed. The themes identified were as follows: Sensory sensitivities and diet; Toothbrushing 'battles'; Coping with the stresses of daily life in a neurotypical world; Awareness of autism and understanding of challenges to good OH; The impact on parents of trying to care their child's OH; CYP and parent/carers difficulties in obtaining OH support; What 'good support' looks like. An increased awareness among DHPs, health and social care professionals of autism and the challenges to OH that CYP face is needed. Providing early support, strategies and resources to CYP and their parents/carers has the potential to help establish positive OH behaviours. The research team worked closely with members of the autistic community on this project. The methods used in this project were developed together with a research advisory group which included four ACYP (aged 9-17) and their parents. The team also worked with members of a youth club for ACYP aged 10-17 years old. All research documents and materials were co-produced. Members of the advisory group (T.V. and I.V.) contributed to the interpretation of the research findings and the writing of this manuscript.

Evaluation of Early Childhood Caries and Its Association with Risk Factors among School Children: A Cross-sectional Study.

The study aimed to assess early childhood caries and its correlation with risk variables among school children. 242 children under the age of 5 years were clinically assessed and to ascertain early childhood caries, a validated structured questionnaire was utilized. Demographic data (four questions) and oral health-related activities questions (two questions) were included. To verify visible signs of caries on the occlusal, buccal, and lingual surfaces, the community periodontal index (CPI) probe was used. Caries was diagnosed using the WHO criteria for carious lesions Children's saliva samples (3 mL) were taken, and a digital portable pH meter was used to determine the pH level. All data were gathered and statistically analyzed. The mean age with early childhood caries (ECC) was 4.6 ± 0.4 and 3.8 ± 0.8 without ECC. In both the groups, the highest education of mothers was secondary and less [104 (59%) and 37 (56%), respectively]. In both with and without ECC, the maximum number of mothers Working was 111 (63%) and 41 (62%), respectively. The maximum number of children brushing their teeth once a day in both the groups were139 (79%) and 35 (53%), respectively, and 148 (84%) were using dentifrices to brush their teeth in the ECC group and 37 (56%) were using dentifrices to brush their teeth in without ECC group. The salivary pH is slightly less in with ECC (7.22 ± 0.34) group compared to without ECC group (7.48 ± 0.46). And there was a statistically significant difference found between the groups. The current study demonstrated a significant association between the risk factors under investigation and early childhood caries among school children considered in the present study. Identifying children who are at risk might be aided by early screening for caries development. Both developed and developing nations continue to face a major public health issue with ECC. Despite the extensive knowledge that dental health professionals possess about the variables that lead to the development of ECC, it continues to be the most common and neglected oral healthcare requirement in children. How to cite this article: Chavan S, Chetani H, Yumnam G, et al. Evaluation of Early Childhood Caries and Its Association with Risk Factors among School Children: A Cross-sectional Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(8):758-761.

Awareness and Need for Dental Insurance in India: A Survey-Based Study Among Dental Health Care Professionals.

Oral health is vital to overall well-being, but high dental care costs often restrict access, particularly in developing countries like India. Although dental insurance could alleviate these costs and enhance accessibility, it remains underdeveloped in Southeast Asia, including India. This study evaluates the awareness and perceived need for dental insurance among dental health professionals and students in India, focusing on their views regarding its role in improving care accessibility. An online cross-sectional survey was administered to 500 participants (dentists and dental students) at a dental college in Gandhinagar, India. Data from 474 completed responses were analyzed after excluding 26 incomplete ones. The survey covered personal demographics, insurance status, perceptions of dental care costs, and interest in dental insurance. The survey revealed a significant demand for dental insurance. A substantial 85.3% of participants found private dental treatments costly, and 90.6% viewed dental insurance was as crucial as medical insurance. Furthermore, 76.7% showed interest in learning more about dental insurance. Integrating dental insurance into India's healthcare system could enhance dental care access by lowering financial barriers. Increased awareness and education about dental insurance among dental professionals and students are essential to address existing gaps and improve oral health outcomes.

Unraveling the Relationship between Oral Habits and Anxiety: A Narrative Review.

This narrative review aims to elucidate the bidirectional relationship between oral habits and anxiety, examining potential underlying mechanisms, psychological factors, and clinical implications. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar, to identify relevant articles published in peer-reviewed journals. Studies investigating the relationship between oral habits (e.g., bruxism, nail biting) and anxiety disorders, as well as associated psychological factors, were included. Oral habits and anxiety exhibit a bidirectional relationship, with individuals engaging in oral habits as coping mechanisms to alleviate anxiety and stress, while anxiety can act as a precipitating factor for the development or exacerbation of oral habits. Common underlying mechanisms include dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, alterations in neurotransmitter systems, and psychosocial factors. Psychological factors, such as cognitive-behavioral factors, emotional regulation, and attentional biases, further influence the manifestation and maintenance of both oral habits and anxiety. Understanding the complex interplay between oral habits and anxiety is crucial for holistic approaches to healthcare. Integrated assessment and management strategies are needed to address both conditions effectively, with emphasis on behavioral interventions, pharmacological approaches, and multidisciplinary collaboration between dental and mental health professionals. By recognizing and addressing the bidirectional nature of this relationship, healthcare providers can optimize patient care and improve overall well-being.

Assessment of awareness and perception regarding conscious sedation amongst the dental health professionals in Pune City. A questionnaire-based survey

Assessment of awareness and perception regarding conscious sedation amongst the dental health professionals in Pune City. A questionnaire-based survey