Dental Perspective Research Articles

Self-Reported Antibiotics Usage, Allergies and Resistance of Albanian Patients from a Dental Perspective: A Preliminary Questionnaire-Based Survey

Self-Reported Antibiotics Usage, Allergies and Resistance of Albanian Patients from a Dental Perspective: A Preliminary Questionnaire-Based Survey

Sleep-disordered breathing - clinical spectrum.

The clinical spectrum of sleep-disordered breathing comprises a range of diverse conditions including obstructive sleep apnoea, central sleep apnoea and sleep-related hypoventilation syndromes. These distinct conditions have specific diagnostic features and are managed differently from one another. Therefore, it is useful for dental practitioners to have a working knowledge of sleep-disordered breathing beyond that of uncomplicated obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). This review paper summarizes the diagnosis and management of commonly encountered clinical sleep-disordered breathing syndromes, with a particular focus on management from a dental perspective.

Sustainability and General Dental Practice: An Overview.

##Statement of the problem Sustainability recognises that the resources that we use are finite and that we should be cognisant of the way in which we use them and use them with care. ##Purpose of the study This paper aims to provide an overview of sustainability in a broad healthcare context and specifically from a dental perspective. ##Materials and Methods This publication discusses how the concept of sustainability can impact the decisions we make regarding the dentistry that we provide. We consider many relevant factors, including practice settings, travel and patient records, single-use equipment, oral hygiene, patient and treatments. ##Results and Conclusion Possible options for improving the sustainability of dental practice are proposed, ranging from “easy wins” to more significant investments in time and finance.

Asthma In Children- A Dental Perspective Asthma In Children- A Dental Perspective

Asthma In Children- A Dental Perspective Asthma In Children- A Dental Perspective

The Science of Mastication and Nutrition: A Dental Perspective

The Science of Mastication and Nutrition: A Dental Perspective

Potential of CPP-ACP and cranberry proantho-cyanidin chewing gum for remineralization of perimylolysis in eating disorders patients

Background: Eating disorder (ED) is characterized by abnormalities in the pattern, amount, and nature of food eaten. Recent studies confirm the high prevalence of ED worldwide, which has increased significantly from 3.5% to 7.8% in the last 18 years. One of the common symptoms of ED sufferers is intentional vomiting, which can lower the pH of the oral cavity and induce perimylolysis. A new challenge is finding an innovation to alleviate perimylolysis in ED patients regarding behavior and dental treatment. Material and Methods: The literature review was carried out in PUBMED, ResearchGate, and ScienceDirect with the keywords: CPP-ACP, proanthocyanidin, chewing gum, eating disorder. Conclusions: Chewing gum containing CPP-ACP and proanthocyanidins from cranberries has been shown to have remineralization potential to help relieve perimylolysis in ED patients from a behavioral and dental perspective.

The hypotheses of oral disease-associated perioprosthetic joint infections to understand the role of oral health for endoprostheses - a narrative review.

Periprosthetic infections are a severe complication, causing enormous morbidity. The role of oral diseases in the development of such infections has been discussed controversially, showing a large discrepancy between prevalence of oral foci and infections of endoprostheses (EP). This narrative review aimed in explaining and discussing two hypotheses for the occurrence of oral disease-associated EP infections. The hypotheses include two mechanisms. (1) In case of an acute exacerbation during the early healingperiod after EP surgery (first 3 months). (2) Coincidental in the context of late EP infections (after successful initial healing), where an initial periprosthetic inflammation can be colonized secondarily by oral microorganisms. In both settings,oral foci are not primarily causative for EP infection, but represent an important reservoir for EP colonization, while the immunological conditions (locally and systemically) are crucial for the onset of an EP infection. As potential consequence, patients with risk factors should be orally rehabilitated prior to EP surgery. Usage of antibiotic prophylaxis during the first 3 months after EP implantation (initial healing period) might be considered, but has no reliable evidence. To avoid morbidity of patients, radical dental clearance is unfavorable for the respective patients. Altogether, patients with EP should receive increased attention from the dental perspective alongside with dental preventive measures, because they show a high dental and periodontal treatment need.

Perceptions of the oral health of their patients reported by Brazilian medical residents in psychiatry

Persons with severe mental disorders have higher chances of presenting oral health problems than persons in the general population. Mental disorders are considered public-health problems worldwide. Interpreting statements on oral health made by medical students receiving instruction in psychiatry is essential to provide elements for reflection on their difficulties, barriers or limited knowledge in managing their patients' oral health. Based on the presupposition that doctors provide their patients with no instruction or support concerning oral complaints, because these do not symbolize the same challenges as those emerging from severe mental disorders. The aim of this study was to interpret symbolic meanings of statements expressed by medical residents in psychiatry at a specialized university outpatient clinic, about their patients' oral health. Qualitative research using the Qualitative-Clinical method was conducted, adopting the theoretical reference of medical psychology. Data were analyzed by the Clinical-Qualitative Content method and the Seven-Step technique. Based on 06 interviews analyzed, the following categories emerged: "What do I do? Psychiatrists' dilemmas about not understanding their role in patients' oral health; and "Dentists do not participate in Balint' so-called "collusion in anonymity". It was concluded that among others, the paradigm consisted of a sociological composition, therefore it was stronger than personal decisions that might eventually oppose the barriers to interdisciplinary work posed by the institutional model, which were intertwined with paradigmatic barriers. Thus, specialist training should include a dental perspective, so that oral examinations would always be included in the physical examinations, from an interdisciplinary perspective of the integrity of health-care.

Medical device regulation (MDR) from a dental perspective

A new regulation for the marketing and application of medical devices has become applicable in the European Union as of May 2021. This regulation is termed EU 2017/745 or Medical Device Regulation (MDR). Initially published and entered into force in 2017, it replaces the former Medical Device Directive 93/42/EEC (MDD), but is still under amendment. The implication of this legislation have broad effects on manufacturers, importers, distributors, users of medical devices, and patients. This article discusses the MDR from the dental perspective. As is illuminated in this text, the MDR will create more red tape for industrial players to get their products CE (Conformitée Européenne) marked, and more documentation work for dentists. This also means that smaller companies acting out of Europe are affected in a disproportionally negative manner compared to their globally acting counterparts. The MDR could and most probably will result in a considerable reduction and price increase of the products that are available to European dentists. Moreover, the MDR could create a rift between dental materials scientists working at universities and the dental industry, because the latter now has to direct more money towards regulatory affairs rather than product development or innovation. On the other hand, the MDR may also act as an antetype for similar regulations in other parts of the world, and could offer new career opportunities for individuals in dental materials research, especially in the regulatory field.

Bio 21 – Homeopathic Medication for Teething: Dental Perspective Redefined

Bio 21 – Homeopathic Medication for Teething: Dental Perspective Redefined

Dental Perspective in the Assessment of Grievousness of Dental Injury and Age Estimation in a Sexual Assault Victim: A Case Report

Dental Perspective in the Assessment of Grievousness of Dental Injury and Age Estimation in a Sexual Assault Victim: A Case Report

Sports nutrition supplements: Current dental perspective

Introduction: Despite their frequent consumption, studies on oral cavity effects of sports supplements that have shown a positive effect on health or performance are scarce. Methodology: Current literature review in the dental, medical and public health fields was carried out using the following databases: Pubmed, MedLine and Biblioteca UANL. Whey protein, creatine, magnesium and beta alanine were used from which those framed in the dates 2017-2022 were selected. Results: Whey protein: When interacting with salivary proteins, they remove the lubricating saliva layer of the mouth and can directly influence the epithelial tissue; in acidic conditions they exhibit astringency which is perceived as increased oral friction or roughness. Creatine: Exhibits non-energy related properties, contributing as a possible direct and indirect antioxidant and eliciting anti-inflammatory effects. Magnesium: In the oral cavity, low dietary intake of magnesium or deficiency is associated with the prevalence of periodontitis. Beta Alanine: The only reported side effect is paresthesia, this can be attenuated by using lower divided doses (1.6 g) or by using a sustained release formulation. Conclusion: It is important to investigate in the initial questioning of patients in the dental office about the possible use of sports nutrition supplements, since some of them could have repercussions on systemic and oral health. Its use should be taken hand in hand with a specialist since the recommended doses could vary depending on age, gender, requirement and general condition.

Dental Perspective on Mucormycosis in COVID-19: a Literature Review.

The purpose of this paper is to gain an understanding of existing knowledge and attain familiarity on mucormycosis for early diagnosis and treatment. It highlights the systematic factors, signs and symptoms, diagnostic tests and treatment procedure for mucormycosis from dentistry point of view. PubMed/ Medline, Scopus, Web of Science were the search engine used. Study selection encompassed systematic reviews, critical reviews and case reports related to mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients and only mucormycosis. 19 articles were selected between Years 2001 to 2021. Analysis was done based on patient's comorbidity, site of mucormycosis infection, use of steroids and its effect on people with COVID -19 infection. Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis is the most common of all systemic manifestations of mucormycosis. Diabetes mellitus and long-term corticosteroid therapy are the leading risk factors with pre-existing diabetes mellitus accounting for almost 80% cases. Elements that facilitate the growth of mucor in COVID-19 patients are the presence of low oxygen levels, high blood glucose levels, acidic media, high levels of iron, immunosuppression, and episodes of prolonged hospitalization. Mucormycosis is heterogenic in nature. Its management requires an individualized plan that considers the immunity status of the host, stage of the infection, systemic disease, early diagnosis and susceptibility to anti-fungal agents. Supervised use of corticosteroids and betadine gargle prevent the occurance of mucormycosis. The paper sheds some light on the warning signs and diagnostic tests that can help in early identification of infection by a dentist. This enables the timely implementation of therapy resulting in good prognosis of the treatment.

Dental Management of Fanconi Anemia: Two Case Reports

Fanconi Anemia (FA) is an extremely rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by chromosomal break up that induces congenital abnormalities. FA results from a mutation in one of the 15 genes involved in the DNA repair pathway that is essential for the proper development of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets (Dental Perspective of Rare Disease of Fanconi Anemia (2). Some signs made up of a short stature, hyperpigmentation and bone marrow failure should suggest the diagnosis. In this paper we report two case reports of FA of in different ages who were followed in our Paediatric Dentistry Department in la Rabta Hospital and in which various classical signs were present. Comparing the different symptoms, we noticed that developmental and physical abnormalities are in common such as hyperpigmentation, short stature, skeletal abnormalities and some oral manifestations such as microdontia, periodontitis, and dental caries. Due to an increased risk of malignancies in this population, we have given emphasis on oral manifestations and the role of pediatric dentist in making early diagnosis and ensuring the maintenance of oral health for these patients.

Craniofacial Sleep Medicine: The Important Role of Dental Providers in Detecting and Treating Sleep Disordered Breathing in Children.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a clinical disorder within the spectrum of sleep-related breathing disorders (SRDB) which is used to describe abnormal breathing during sleep resulting in gas exchange abnormalities and/or sleep disruption. OSA is a highly prevalent disorder with associated sequelae across multiple physical domains, overlapping with other chronic diseases, affecting development in children as well as increased health care utilization. More precise and personalized approaches are required to treat the complex constellation of symptoms with its associated comorbidities since not all children are cured by surgery (removal of the adenoids and tonsils). Given that dentists manage the teeth throughout the lifespan and have an important understanding of the anatomy and physiology involved with the airway from a dental perspective, it seems reasonable that better understanding and management from their field will give the opportunity to provide better integrated and optimized outcomes for children affected by OSA. With the emergence of therapies such as mandibular advancement devices and maxillary expansion, etc., dentists can be involved in providing care for OSA along with sleep medicine doctors. Furthermore, the evolving role of myofunctional therapy may also be indicated as adjunctive therapy in the management of children with OSA. The objective of this article is to discuss the important role of dentists and the collaborative approach between dentists, allied dental professionals such as myofunctional therapists, and sleep medicine specialists for identifying and managing children with OSA. Prevention and anticipatory guidance will also be addressed.

Calcium Channel Blockers Induced Gingival Overgrowth: A Comprehensive Review from a Dental Perspective.

ABSTRACTBackground:Gingival overgrowth (GO) as a manifestation of calcium channel blockers (CCBs) was first introduced in the literature by Ramon et al. in 1984. Since then, the use of CCBs as a treatment modality for hypertension has been recorded extensively in the literature for its association with GO. Aim:The aim of our study is to evaluate histopathology, treatment, and follow-up for the cases detailed in various studies and also to highlight the protocol mentioned to identify these presentations.Materials and Methods:A broad search was conducted from the period 1980 to 2021 using electronic databases PubMed Central, Scopus, Cochrane, and SciELO databases. About 293 articles were initially chosen. The articles further excluded did not fit the criteria for the study and eventually 50 articles which met the inclusion criteria were chosen as part of this literature review.Results:A comparative analysis was carried out regarding histopathology, treatment modalities, drug dosage, and duration to evaluate the differences in cases between 1980 and 2021. From the available studies, it was found that the histopathological and clinical findings were varied. Treatment strategies employed were different, though follow-ups in most cases were uniform.Conclusion:CCBs and their relationship with GO have been widely reported in the literature. Dentists should approach this condition by taking appropriate medical and dental history and follow evidence-based treatment guidelines to provide more relevant and judicious management of this condition. Inter-disciplinary treatment approaches would provide better outcomes.

Current Scientific Research Trends on Salivary Biomarkers: A Bibliometric Analysis.

Salivary biomarkers are indicators of many biological and pathological conditions and provide further information regarding the early detection of diseases. This bibliometric analysis aims to identify and evaluate the scientific literature addressing salivary biomarkers from a dental perspective, to identify the most prolific organizations, authors, journals, countries, and keywords used within this research domain. An electronic search was performed using Elsevier’s Scopus database. From a total of 587 retrieved papers (published between 1997 and 2021), 399 were selected. For the data analysis and its visualization, the title of the articles, year of publication, countries, authors, journals, articles, and keywords were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and VOSviewer (a bibliometric software program). An increase in the number of publications was identified from 1997 to 2021. The United States (U.S.) published the most papers (84) and received the highest citations (3778), followed by India and Brazil. The Journal of Periodontology published the highest number of articles (39) that received the highest citations. The University of Kentucky from the U.S. published most of the papers related to salivary biomarkers that received the highest citations. Timo Sorsa published the most papers (14 papers), while Craig Miller was the highest cited author (754 citations). Concerning the highly cited papers, a paper by Micheal et al., published in 2010, received the highest citations (487 citations). “Saliva”, followed by “human”, were the most common keywords used by the authors in the papers related to salivary biomarkers. The findings of this analysis revealed an increase in salivary biomarker-related publications that positively influenced the number of citations each paper received. The U.S. produced the most publications that received the highest citations, and the University of Kentucky, U.S., was the most prominent. The articles were mostly published in the Journal of Periodontology and received the highest number of citations.

Fluoride Concentration in Drinking water in The Libyan City of Zliten: Dental Perspective

Background: Having optimally fluoridated drinkable water supply is important to reduce the prevalence of both dental decay and dental fluorosis. This research aimed to report all possible drinking water sources and their fluoride content in the Libyan city of Zliten.
 Methods: This descriptive study used a convenient sampling strategy to collect 68 samples from different drinking water sources across the city. The fluoride concentration was identified using potentiometric method by means of fluoride selective ion electrode.
 Results: 31 source of desalinated water and 37 ground water source have been identified as drinking water. Moreover, the fluoride content was found to be much lower than recommended by the national and international standards for the desalinated water (0.047 ppm±0.062) while that of ground source was found to range from 0.9 to 2.23 ppm with a mean of (1.43 ppm±0.38).
 Conclusion: People in the city have many choices for drinkable water, however, those who drink from the desalinated water consume less water-dissolved fluoride than those who rely on the ground water as a source of drinking. This reflects the fact that the residents have no equal chances to get the sufficient amounts of fluoride necessary for healthy teeth. Accordingly, more research is needed to evaluate the actual effect of this discrepancy in fluoride consumption on the population and consequently to implement the required strategies essential to assure optimum oral health for the whole population.

Sleep-Disordered Breathing - A Dental Perspective.

What is Sleep Disordered Breathing? What are the causes of Sleep Disordered Breathing? What role does an Orthodontist play? The article aims at answering such questions and spreading the ideology and seriousness of this disorder. Normal sleep involves air passing through and going directly down to the lungs. With an obstructed airway, the structures in the back of the throat occlude the airway due to an inadequate motor tone of the tongue and airway dilator muscles, and thus, prevent the air from passing.

Mucormycosis - The deadly fungus – A case report with dental perspective

Mucormycosis is a fungal infection caused by members of Mucorales and zygomycotic species. These are saprophytes known as Mucormycotina that grow from rotten matter or soils during the decomposition of soil. It has been seen affecting many COVID-19-affected patients recently in India. Mucormycosis can be diagnosed in six different sites depending on the immunological status and the site of the body affected. The six manifestations are rhinocerebral, pulmonary, cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and central nervous system or disseminated forms. Here, we present a dental case of mucormycosis or black fungus disease that has affected an immune-compromised patient who had suffered from COVID-19 2 months ago. Surgical debridement was done and the histopathologic study revealed fungal hyphae. Systemic antifungal therapy was administered that helped the patient to recover in 7-week time.