Dental Services Research Articles

Dental Profile of Brazilian Patients with Rare Skeletal Genetic Disorders: Clinical Features and Associated Factors.

The aim of this study is to compare the dental profiles of Brazilian patients with rare genetic skeletal disorders and normotypical patients. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 210 individuals aged between 2 and 54 years old [105 with rare diseases (Mucopolysaccharidosis/MPS n = 27 and Osteogenesis Imperfecta/OI n = 78) and 105 without rare diseases] and their parents/caregivers. The parents/caregivers answered a questionnaire about individual aspects of their child and the dental profile was identified from questions related to dental history and the presence/absence of dental problems. The patients' oral cavity was also examined by three examiners for dental caries, malocclusion, gingivitis, and dental anomalies. The average age of individuals with a rare disease was 14.1 years (±12.2) and the median was 9.5 years. Participants who had already used the public health system (SUS) dental care services had a 2.24 times higher chance of belonging to the group with a rare disease (OR = 2.24; 95% CI: 1.07-4.89). Patients with rare diseases are 14.86 times more likely to have difficulty receiving dental treatment (OR = 14.86; 95% CI: 5.96-27.03) and 10.38 times more likely to have one or more dental problems (OR = 10.38; 95% CI: 1.95-35.17). Individuals with rare disorders have a greater history of difficulty in accessing dental treatment, using the SUS, and were diagnosed with more dental problems compared to normotypical individuals.

Sexual health risk indicators and their associations with caries status and gingival health of adolescents resident in sub-urban South-West Nigeria

Background Adolescents are at high risk of poor sexual and oral health. We investigated for sexual risk factors associated with caries experience and gingival health among adolescents in Nigeria. Methods This cross-sectional study collected data from 10-19-year-old adolescents in Ile-Ife, South-West Nigeria through a household survey conducted between December 2018 and January 2019. Information collected included age; sex; socioeconomic status; sexual practices (vaginal, oral, anal sex); sexual (transactional sex, multiple sex partners, condom use at last sexual intercourse) and oral health (frequency of tooth brushing, use of fluoridated toothpaste, dental service utilization in the last 12 months, consumption of refined carbohydrates in-between meals) risk behaviors; caries experience; and gingival health. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between explanatory variables (sexual and oral health risk behaviors) and outcome variables (caries experience and gingivitis). Results There were no significant associations between caries experience and history of sexual intercourse (OR:1.00); condom use at last sex act (OR:0.68); and having one (OR:2.27) or more sexual partners. Also, there was no significant association between moderate/severe gingivitis and a history of anal (OR:2.96), oral (OR:2.69), or vaginal (OR:1.40) sex; and a report of having one (OR:1.71) or more (OR:2.57) sex partners. Conclusions Some sexual health risk indicators insignificantly increase the risk for caries and moderate/severe gingivitis. Screening for sexual risk behaviors during dental care may be a suitable wellness programs approach for adolescents.

What keeps you coming back? Health care experience and determinants of consistent follow-up among persons experiencing homelessness in Atlanta, GA

ABSTRACT People experiencing homelessness have difficulties accessing primary care and maintaining follow-up. Little is known about what factors contribute to satisfaction with care and subsequent return visits. In this 2019 qualitative study of 20 individuals experiencing homelessness at an urban non-profit clinic in Atlanta, GA, we conducted a hybrid deductive-inductive thematic analysis to identify factors that impacted satisfaction with care and encouraged consistent follow-up. A comprehensive care model – including psychiatry and dental services, access to medication, and housing – supported ongoing utilization of primary care. However, it was also essential to promote dignity and respect, and foster emotional connection with and trust between patients and clinic staff. Many also reported religion or spirituality as an important factor. In their prior experience, when these same factors were absent, participants were less likely to follow-up consistently. These findings will help to encourage consistent follow-up and create opportunities to treat chronic conditions that require consistent medical care.

The Management of a Moroccan Population of Medically Compromised Children: A Satisfaction Survey among Parents in the Pediatric Dentistry Service CCTD of Casablanca

Oral problems can have a considerable impact on the general health and quality of life of healthy children and even more those with physical or mental disabilities. And conversely, general status can affect oral status. In fact, the satisfaction assessment in the dental care field is mandatory toward both healthy and medically compromised children. Unfortunately, in Morocco, studies taking into account the needs of the Moroccan population and especially the medically compromised children in the field of dental care are very few, that’s why the main objective of this study was to measure the satisfaction of the parents of these children with their management of oral health. within the CCTD pediatric dentistry service in Casablanca.

Questionnaire on Public Satisfaction with Dental Services under the State Guarantee Program

This article presents a study on the awareness of the program of state guarantees and public satisfaction with the quality of dental services provided in Bishkek. Awareness of primary health care to the population within the framework of the State Guarantees Program will help to receive preventive dental services in a timely manner, which is one of the effective mechanisms for improving the quality of dental care. Increasing satisfaction with the quality of dental care is one of the main tasks facing any medical institution. The results of the study of satisfaction with the quality of services provided accurately reflect positive and negative trends and allow us to identify factors that reduce patient satisfaction with medical care. To this end, a sociological survey of the population was conducted on awareness of oral hygiene, on the Program of state guarantees and satisfaction with the quality of dental services. According to the results of the study, the predominance of parents of children under 10 years old (79%), pregnant women (6%) and pensioners was revealed among the categories of persons according to PGG15 (%). Awareness of GHG among parents of children under 10 years of age (34%) and (66%) are not informed. Among the surveyed parents of children under 10 years old (66%) expressed satisfaction with dental services, (34%) were not satisfied with the services. Pregnant women are informed about PGG (53%) and (47%) are not informed. According to the results, pregnant women are satisfied with dental services (72%) and (28%) are not satisfied. Pensioners over the age of 70 are informed about PGG (26%) and (74%) are not informed. Satisfaction with dental services (63%) and (37%) are not satisfied. It is noted that it is necessary to develop and implement a unified standardized questionnaire for patients using the services of dental organizations to control the quality of care provided, which will help identify shortcomings in the work and recommend measures to solve problems.

Key factors in the future of oral and dental health in Iran using scenario writing approach

BackgroundOral and dental health can significantly impact individuals’ quality of life. The World Health Organization introduces oral health as one of the essential priorities of public health worldwide. Given the lack of studies on the future of oral and dental health in Iran, this study used a futures studies approach to identify the factors in oral and dental health in Iran through scenario writing.MethodsThis study was conducted in three stages including the scenario writing approach, qualitative methods, and exploratory future research. First, potential variables affecting future oral and dental health systems were extracted through interviews. The focus group discussion determined the uncertainty and importance of the variables. Then, the cross-impact balance matrix was imported into the Scenario Wizard software to identify the different states of the scenario generator variables and compatible scenarios were extracted.ResultsSeventy variables were extracted as key variables affecting the future of oral and dental health. Regarding the importance and uncertainty, seventeen variables scored higher and fell into policy and governance, economy and financing, social, service delivery, and technology, serving as five categories of scenario generators. Fifteen scenarios with weak consistency and three with strong consistency were obtained using the Cross-Impact Balance matrix in Scenario Wizard software.ConclusionThe probability of a pessimistic scenario where all five categories of the scenarios were in the worst possible state was higher due to its consistency. The government’s support policies and commitment to oral and dental health were two key factors in the future. Achieving an optimistic and favorable scenario for the future of the country’s oral and dental health system depends on the government and policymakers in the health sector adopting a positive attitude towards the role of oral and dental health services in improving societal health. In this scenario, the five categories of the scenario generators were in the best condition.

Dental tourism in Albania (A study that explores the factors that attract foreign tourists to benefit from dental services in Albania)

Tourism is an important and influential sector for the economy, creating multiple uses and benefits. Dental tourism as part of tourism as a whole has seen an increase all over the world. People are traveling from their countries to get dental treatment at a much lower cost and in a much shorter time than in their own countries. Even in Albania, dental tourism has had an increasing number of foreigners looking for dental clinics for their oral health.This study explores the factors that attract foreign (Italian) tourists to benefit from dental services in Albania. For data collection, 100 questionnaires addressed to dental tourists (Italian) are used, in the form of an interview as a structured conversation, where the dental assistant asks questions and the dental tourist gives answers, during the period January-September 2023. Through the descriptive analysis, we obtained an overview of the characteristics of the sample under study according to the data of the structured questionnaire, respectively: The first part (sociodemographic characteristics), the second part (dental factors), (price, quality, promotion, of dental services), (opinions on tourism in Albania). One of the main strengths of this study is the focus on dental tourism, which has not been studied very much in Albania.The study will have a modest impact on those responsible for the development of the tourism industry by making them aware of the factors that motivate foreigners to travel to Albania. In conclusion, Albania is now a favorite destination for many tourists who can get the necessary dental care while also creating unforgettable memories.

Optimising referral letters for the dental practitioner.

Referrals are defined as 'a process in which a health worker at one level of the health system, having insufficient resources (drugs, equipment, skills) to manage a clinical condition, seeks the help of a better or differently resourced facility at the same or higher level to assist in patient management'. Within the UK, the NHS dental service is divided into nationally defined levels of care, which provide treatment based upon complexity and patient modifying factors. Having a sound knowledge of these levels will help general dental practitioners (GDPs) make appropriate and efficient onward referrals to the correct service.This article aims to outline the key information required for all strong GDP referrals, as well as highlighting information that may be specific to each speciality. This is with the hope of creating a key list for GDPs to use on clinic when writing referrals to reduce the incidence of missed information and subsequent rejection. The article also aims to outline the levels of NHS dental care and what factors and treatments are suitable for each to aid GDPs during their referral decision-making process.

Interventions in root‐filled teeth identified in general dental practice: A 6‐year longitudinal observational study

AbstractAimTo investigate what happens to cross‐sectionally identified root‐filled teeth over a 6‐year period, regardless of the time that elapsed since primary root canal treatment, in a cohort of adult patients regularly attending a Public Dental Service. A secondary aim was to investigate how the cumulative events affecting root‐filled teeth over the same time were associated with variables obtained from a baseline examination.MethodologyAdult patients with ≥1 previously root‐filled tooth and regularly attending the Public Dental Service in Örebro County were enrolled for study participation in 2015. General dental practitioners examined all identified root‐filled teeth in this cohort at baseline using a standardized protocol and were also responsible for further decision‐making and treatments. After six years, information on events of the root‐filled teeth was collected from dental records. The highest rating (most invasive treatment) on a 5‐point ordinal scale was used in the analyses. Regression analyses with stepwise selection were performed for associations between patient‐ and tooth‐related factors and events.ResultsA total of 445 patients with 1007 root‐filled teeth were followed the entire observation time. Twenty (2.0%) of the root‐filled teeth had endodontic retreatment and 150 (14.9%) were extracted over six years. Among teeth with periapical radiolucency or pain, the majority did not undergo retreatment or extraction; however, the multivariate analysis demonstrated that retreatment or extraction was associated with baseline recordings of teeth with periapical radiolucency (p < .0001), tenderness to percussion (p < .0001), and poor coronal restoration (p < .0001).ConclusionsThis study corroborates the notion that in general dentistry, root‐filled teeth with radiological signs of apical disease often remain untreated over time. Furthermore, it also reveals that root‐filled teeth presenting with mild pain do not necessarily receive any intervention. However, teeth with baseline signs of apical periodontitis, pain, or inadequate coronal restoration were more likely to have received intervention during the six‐year period.

Fissure Sealants or Fluoride Varnish? A Randomized Pragmatic Split-Mouth Trial

This study aimed to compare the clinical effectiveness of resin-based fissure sealants (FS) and fluoride varnish (FV) in children at high caries risk. A practice-based split-mouth randomized clinical trial was conducted at 9 Public Dental Service (PDS) clinics in Norway. In total, 409 children age 6 to 10 y at high caries risk (d3mft > 0) meeting inclusion criteria were recruited by dentists and dental hygienists during routine examination. Eligibility criteria were 2 fully erupted first permanent molars (FPMs) in the same jaw, with sound occlusal surfaces or with initial caries. Participation was voluntary, caregivers and eligible children were informed about the study, and written parental consent was obtained. FS and FV were randomly applied on contralateral FPMs in the same jaw, with each participant serving as their own control. FS was applied at baseline and thereafter maintained according to clinicians’ conventional procedures, whereas FV was applied at baseline, 6 mo, and 12 mo. The study outcome was success, with no need for invasive treatment (caries control), while failure was defined as dentin carious lesion or restoration. Two-level mixed-effects logistic regression analysis was used to compare FS and FV groups. Of 409 recruited children, 369 (90%) children/tooth pairs were examined after 36 mo. Intention-to-treat analysis showed 94.1% adjusted predicted probability (aPP) of success (95% confidence interval [CI] 91.7 to 96.4) in the FS group and 89.6% aPP (95% CI 86.5 to 92.7) in the FV group. In the adjusted analysis, the FV group had a lower OR for success compared with the FS group (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.87). In the population studied, the clinical effectiveness of FS was statistically significantly higher compared with FV but below the estimated minimal clinically important difference of 10%.

Analysis of the Effectiveness of Online-Based Patient Queue Management System Innovation: Study at the Dental and Oral Hospital, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Long queues and long waiting times at dental and oral health services are frequent complaints from patients. This is caused by the time for dental and oral procedures which generally takes quite a long time compared to other health services. The Dental and Oral Hospital (RSGM) of Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) implemented innovation in the form of an online patient queue management system to overcome this problem. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the online queuing system. This study used a non-experimental observational design with a cross-sectional approach. Data was collected through a survey of 1000 patients who used the RSGM UMY online queue system. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests. The research results show that the RSGM UMY online queuing system is effective in reducing patient waiting time. The average patient waiting time with the online queuing system was 21.33 (SD 1.45) minutes, shorter than with the manual queuing system which averaged 112.32 (SD 8.23) minutes. Patients were also satisfied with the online queuing system, with 92.32 (SD 4.21) respondents stating they were satisfied. The online patient queue management system at RSGM UMY has proven effective in reducing patient waiting time and increasing patient satisfaction. This system can be a model for other RSGMs to improve the quality of their services.

Analysis of the Feasibility of a Multidisciplinary Hospital Dental Service for People with Specific Needs at a University Hospital in Tocantins

Analysis of the Feasibility of a Multidisciplinary Hospital Dental Service for People with Specific Needs at a University Hospital in Tocantins

Musculoskeletal disorders and risk indicators for pain chronification among German dentists: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal (MS) disorders in practicing German dentists and identify risk factors for pain chronification. MethodsThis was a cross-sectional, quantitative, questionnaire-based study in which the validated German version of the Örebro Musculoskeletal Pain Questionnaire was sent out to practicing German dentists. ResultsOf the 8,072 questionnaires sent out, 576 dentists responded (60.2% men, 39.8% women; mean [SD] age, 50 [10.1] years; response rate, 7.1%). Overall, 344 dentists had current pain at 719 pain sites (point prevalence, 59.7%). The risk of chronic pain in dentists with current MS pain was high in 28.5% (n = 98), moderate in 30.5% (n = 105), and low in 41% (n = 141). The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that specialization in restorative dentistry was associated with a significantly higher risk of experiencing pain chronification (odds ratio [OR], 3.94; P = .008), followed by specialization in pediatric dentistry (OR, 0.35; P = .048). A history of current pain, particularly current leg pain, was predictive of higher chronification risk (OR, 22.0; P < .001) and neck pain (OR, 4.51; P = .001). ConclusionsAlmost two-thirds of practicing German dentists have MS pain, and one-third of these have a moderate through high risk of developing pain chronification. These health problems have an adverse impact on their ability to successfully perform dental services, with the potential for prolonged sick leave, disability, and early retirement. Accordingly, these problems deserve greater attention from the scientific community (identification of risk factors), universities (sensitization and education), and policy makers (development and implementation of appropriate countermeasures for MS disorders in the dental profession). Practical ImplicationsKnowing the risk factors associated with acute and chronic MS pain may help dentists take preventive measures and thereby improve their physical well-being and work-related quality of life.

Association of general anxiety and pediatric dental preventive examination utilization, National Survey of Children's Health, 2021.

Many factors influence preventive dental health service access for children. The objective of this research was to examine one factor, general anxiety, in accessing at least one preventive dental examination in the past 12 months in children with special healthcare needs (CSHCN) and children without special healthcare needs (CWSHCN). National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) 2021 were obtained for this cross-sectional research. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses were used to determine association of anxiety and past 12-month preventive dental examinations. The sample included 10493 CSHCN, and 35675 CWSHCN. Overall, 72.7% had past 12-month preventive dental examinations, and 9.9% had a healthcare provider indicate they had general anxiety. CSHCN with anxiety, CWSHCN with anxiety, and CSHCN without anxiety were more likely to have a past 12-month preventive dental examination visit than CWSHCN without anxiety (Adjusted Odds Ratios: 1.86, 1.39, 1.32, respectively). Our results suggest children with general anxiety (both CSHCN and CWSHCN) are more likely to have had at least one regular preventive dental visit within the past 12 months than CWSHCN and without general anxiety. There is a need for further understanding the relationship of general anxiety and dental health to improve the health of all children. CWSHCN without anxiety need individualized, comprehensive care with enough time, attention, instruction, and rewards to demonstrate to parents/guardians the importance of making routine preventive dental examinations a priority for their child.

Investigating Patient Satisfaction Through Web-Based Reviews of Norwegian Dentists: Quantitative Study Using the Meaning Extraction Method.

Challenging encounters in health care professions, including in dentistry, are relatively common. Challenging encounters can be defined as stressful or emotional situations involving patients that could impact both treatment outcomes and patients' experiences. Through written web-based reviews, patients can share their experiences with health care providers, and these posts can be a useful source for investigating patient satisfaction and their experiences of challenging encounters. This study aims to identify dominant themes from patient-written, web-based reviews of dentists and investigate how these themes are related to patient satisfaction with dental treatment. The study data consisted of 11,764 reviews written by dental patients, which included 1- to 5-star ratings on overall satisfaction and free-text comments. The free-text comments were analyzed using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count software, and the meaning extraction method was used to group words into thematic categories. These themes were used as variables in a multilevel logistic regression analysis to predict patient satisfaction. Eight themes emerged from the analyses, of which 6 (75%)-explanation (odds ratio [OR] 2.56, 95% CI 2.16-3.04; P<.001), assurance (OR 3.61, 95% CI 2.57-5.06; P<.001), performance assessment (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.84-2.55; P<.001), professional advice (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.55-2.13; P<.001), facilities (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.08-2.91; P=.02), and recommendation (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.12-1.53; P<.001)-increased the odds of high patient satisfaction. The remaining themes (2/8, 25%)-consequences of treatment need (OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.20-0.29; P<.001) and patient-centered care (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.52-0.74; P<.001)-reduced the odds of high patient satisfaction. The meaning extraction method is an interesting approach to explore patients' written accounts of encounters with dental health professionals. The experiences described by patients provide insight into key elements related to patient satisfaction that can be used in the education of dental health professionals and to improve the provision of dental health services.

ПРАВОВЫЕ АСПЕКТЫ ДОГОВОРА ПРЕДОСТАВЛЕНИЯ ПЛАТНЫХ МЕДИЦИНСКИХ УСЛУГ

Relevance. The new Rules for the provision of paid medical services by medical organizations, approved by Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation of March 11, 2023 No. 736, are aimed at developing and improving the legal framework for the provision of medical services. In this regard, it seems relevant to draw the attention of doctors dentists on the legal aspects of contractual relations. The main goal of the work. The purpose of the study is to draw the attention of dentists to certain legal aspects of contracts for the provision of paid medical services, which are essential for the effective protection of their interests in the event of disputes regarding the proper performance of contractual obligations. Approaches used. The provisions of legislative and by-laws related to paid medical services have been studied. A survey of 125 respondents (72 dentists, 53 consumers of medical services) was conducted on some legal aspects of the provision of paid medical (dental) services. Results. Using the survey method, the attitude of dentists and consumers to pre-contractual relations, to information about medical workers involved in the provision of paid medical services, as well as to the provision in written form of rules for using the results of the service or their storage is shown. Main conclusions. When providing paid medical (dental) services, it is necessary to pay special attention to: 1) pre-contractual notification to consumers in writing about the consequences of failure to comply with the instructions (recommendations) of the performer (medical worker providing a paid medical service; 2) notification to the consumer ( to the customer) information about medical workers involved in the provision of paid medical services, about the level of their professional education and qualifications; 3) providing the consumer with written rules for using the results of the service or storing them.

"We want our freedom back, that's our only need": a qualitative study of health and social needs among asylum seekers and undocumented migrants crossing the borders from Belarus to Lithuania.

The influx of undocumented migrants and asylum seekers into Lithuania, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, presents unique public health challenges. This study employs the Social Determinants of Health framework to explore the healthcare and social needs of this vulnerable population. In May 2022, we carried out a qualitative study through semi-structured interviews with asylum seekers across four centers in Lithuania. Employing both purposive and snowball sampling techniques, we selected participants for our investigation. The study comprised 21 interviews-19 conducted in Arabic and 2 in English-with durations ranging between 20 and 40 min each. We audio-recorded all interviews, transcribed them verbatim, and subsequently performed a thematic analysis using Atlas.ti software. This process of design and analysis strictly followed the principles of thematic analysis as outlined by Braun and Clarke, guaranteeing methodological precision and rigor. 21 interviews revealed critical insights into the healthcare access challenges, mental health issues, and social integration barriers faced by the participants. Key themes included 'Healthcare Needs and the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic 'and 'Social needs and Aspirations Amidst Pandemic-Induced Uncertainty '. The findings highlight the multifaceted healthcare and social needs of asylum seekers, juxtaposed against significant barriers they face. Access to medical services is hindered by long waiting times and financial constraints, especially for specialized care such as dental services. Communication issues during medical appointments due to language barriers and the lack of gender-specific healthcare, such as access to gynecological services, further exacerbate the challenges. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic introduces hurdles such as limited testing, isolation measures, language-specific information barriers, and insufficient social distancing practices. Mental health has emerged as a critical concern, with asylum seekers reporting significant stress and emotional exhaustion due to uncertainty and restrictive living conditions. Social needs extend to delayed asylum application processes, inconsistent language education opportunities, inadequate clothing, and nutrition that lacks cultural sensitivity, and living conditions characterized by overcrowding and insufficient facilities. The restricted freedom of movement within asylum seeking centres severely impacts their psychological well-being, underscoring a deep longing for autonomy and a better life despite the myriad of challenges faced. The study illustrates the complex interplay between migration, health, and social factors in the context of a global pandemic. It highlights the need for culturally sensitive healthcare services, mental health support, and structured language education programs. Offering educational avenues alongside language courses for children and adults is essential for fostering social inclusion and securing economic prosperity. Addressing the challenge of language barriers is of utmost importance, as these barriers significantly impede undocumented migrants' and asylum seekers employment opportunities and their access to crucial services. The findings emphasized immigration as a health determinant and underscored the importance of inclusive health policies and advocacy for undocumented migrants and asylum seekers' rights and needs. There is an urgent need for comprehensive policies and practices that are grounded in the principles of equity, compassion, and human rights. Additionally, advocating for practice adaptations that are culturally sensitive, linguistically inclusive, and responsive to the unique challenges faced by undocumented migrants and asylum seekers. As global migration continues to rise, these findings are crucial for informing public health strategies and social services that cater to the diverse needs of this vulnerable population.

The oral health status and treatment needs of adults with intellectual disabilities in Auckland.

Adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) are known to have poor oral health and complex dental needs requiring treatment under general anesthesia (GA). This retrospective chart review aimed to provide information on the oral health status and treatment needs of adults with ID in Auckland. Data on 1075 adult patients with ID seen through the Auckland public dental service during the period June 2016 to April 2020 were drawn from electronic notes. Analyses focused on age group differences and the characteristics associated with the use of GA for dental treatment. More cumulative caries experience, poorer oral hygiene, and more missing teeth were observed among those who were older. About half (50.8%) of the patients used GA for dental treatment. This proportion was higher among those who were younger, less independent, non-verbal, with poorer oral hygiene, or who had active decay. Adults with ID are a heterogeneous population with unmet dental treatment needs. Different age groups require consideration of distinct characteristics for dental care provision. It is important to be for public sector service provision to be developed to consider predictors for GA service use in patients who are younger, less independent, non-verbal, or have active decay.

Association between early childhood caries and parental education and the link to the sustainable development goal 4: a scoping review

BackgroundThe goal of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. The aim of this scoping review was to map the current evidence on the association between the prevalence of early childhood caries (ECC) and parental education; and to identify possible pathways by which parental education may protect against ECC.MethodsThe two questions that guided this review were: what is the existing evidence on the association between maternal and paternal education and ECC; and what are the pathways by which parental education protects against ECC? The initial search was conducted in January 2023 in PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus. Articles published in English between January 2000 and October 2022 that reported on the association between parental education and ECC were screened, and the extracted data were compiled, summarized, and synthesized. Review papers and non-primary quantitative research papers were excluded from the full-text review. Open coding was applied to develop a conceptual framework.ResultsIn total, 49 studies were included: 42 cross-sectional, 3 case-control and 4 cohort studies. The majority (91.8%) reported on the associations between ECC and maternal (n = 33), paternal (n = 3), and parental (n = 9) level of education, and 13 (26.7%) reported on the association between parental education and the severity of ECC. Mothers with more than primary school education (n = 3), post-secondary/college/tertiary education (n = 23), and more than 4–12 years of education (n = 12) had children with lower risk for ECC. Two studies reporting on parental education found an association between maternal but not paternal education and ECC. The review suggests that achieving the SDG 4.1 may reduce the risk of ECC. Possible pathways by which maternal education protects from ECC were feeding practices, oral hygiene practices, and the use of dental services.ConclusionThe study findings suggests that higher maternal educational level may reduce the risk for the consumption of cariogenic diet, poor oral hygiene practices and poor use of dental services for caries prevention. However, the association between paternal education and ECC was not consistently observed, with significant associations less frequently reported compared to maternal education. Future studies are needed to define the magnitude and modifiers of the impact of maternal education on the risk for ECC.

Pattern of dental services utilization among adolescents and adults in Kano, Northern Nigeria

Nigeria is often conveniently described along geographical lines as North and South, each with its peculiar culture, predominant religion, and distinctive determinants of health. Available oral health information for Nigeria is derived from studies that have mainly been conducted in southern Nigeria. This study describes oral care-seeking behavior in northern Nigeria by analyzing the attendance pattern at a tertiary hospital over a period. Clinic records of patients who visited the Oral Diagnostic Sciences (ODS) clinic in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, were retrieved and retrospectively reviewed. Data on age, sex, ethnicity, and chief dental complaints were extracted and analyzed using SPSS version 20 (IBM Corp.; Armonk, NY, USA). The clinic records of 1,620 patients were reviewed, and the results showed that more males than females visited the clinic (55.4%), and dental pain was the most common reason for visiting the clinic (57.1%). Young adults and youths comprised the majority of patients, while the elderly population was the least represented. The study reveals dental healthcare utilization patterns in Kano, Nigeria, with sex differences reflecting sociocultural factors influencing health behaviors. The high proportion of dental pain cases highlights the need for preventive oral health efforts. The association between young/middle-aged individuals and dental trauma highlights occupational hazards and lifestyle as key determinants of dental health outcomes.