Dental Status Research Articles

The Prevalence and Intensity of Dental Diseases Among Workers with Dangerous Working Conditions, Depending on the Presence or Absence of Previous Oral Sanitation

Relevance: to substantiate programs for the prevention of dental diseases at nuclear industry enterprises with dangerous working conditions, comparative studies of the dental status of employees, depending on the presence or absence of previous oral sanitation, are relevant. The purpose of the study: clinical and radiological comparison of indicators of the dental status of nuclear power plant workers with hazardous working conditions (OT), depending on the presence or absence of previous oral sanitation. Materials and methods: 78 employees of the Kalinin nuclear power plant with dangerous working conditions in the key age group of 35–44 years, who underwent therapeutic and surgical sanitation of the oral cavity a year ago, were examined. For comparison, 69 workers with OT of an identical gender and age group who refused to sanitize the oral cavity during periodic medical examinations were examined. The sequence of clinical and radiological examination corresponded to the modified WHO Dental Status Assessment Map (1995). Results: the positive effect of oral sanitation due to the removal of destroyed teeth, treatment of caries and its complications, as well as periodontal diseases is to reduce the prevalence of signs of dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint by 52.5 %, non-carious offspring 22.7 %, diseases of the oral mucosa 24.1 %, periodontal diseases 6.0 %. As a result of sanitation, the detection of poor oral hygiene is reduced by 54.7 %. The intensity of caries and periodontal diseases a year after sanitation is 12.8 and 27.8 % lower in comparison with workers with an unsanitized oral cavity. After rehabilitation, the prevalence of orthopedic treatment increases by 43.4 %. Conclusions: oral sanitation significantly improves the basic indicators of dental status for workers with dangerous working conditions at nuclear power plants. The positive effect of oral sanitation is largely preserved after a year in comparison with non-sanitized workers. Oral sanitation at the age of 35–44 years does not affect the prevalence of caries.

Efforts to enhance dental health behavior and status of stunted toddlers through the utilization of the 'Towards Healthy Teeth Card' in integrated health posts across Taebenu Subdistrict, Kupang Regency

Efforts to enhance dental health behavior and status of stunted toddlers through the utilization of the 'Towards Healthy Teeth Card' in integrated health posts across Taebenu Subdistrict, Kupang Regency

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE FUNCTIONAL STATUS OF MASTICULING MUSCLES ACCORDING TO ELECTROMYOGRAPHY DATA IN PATIENTS WITH BRUXISM UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF REHABILITATION INTERVENTION

Purpose: to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed physical therapy program based on the parameters of the electromyographic study of the masticatory muscles of patients with bruxism. Material. The control group consisted of 32 people without burdened dental status. Group 1 consisted of 31 people with bruxism, which was corrected with individual relaxing splints. Group 2 consisted of 32 people with bruxism, in whom, in addition to splints, a physical therapy program was applied - therapeutic exercises, massage, post-isometric relaxation, kinesiological taping for masticatory muscles, muscles of the face, neck, cervical collar zone, back, shoulder, electromyostimulation of masticatory muscles; autorelaxation sessions according to Schultz; patient education. The purpose of the program was: normalization of the strength and tone of the muscles of the face and neck; reduction of discomfort; improvement of chewing function; improving the quality of life. The effectiveness of the program was evaluated based on the results of electromyography. Results. In patients with bruxism, signs of bilateral increased bioelectric activity of the masticatory and temporal muscles at rest and during functional load were determined by their average amplitude, with the preference of masticatory muscle activity when determining symmetry indices based on the results of electromyography. The program of complex physical therapy demonstrated a statistically significantly better effect (p<0.05) on the studied indicators of bioelectric activity of the masticatory and temporal muscles compared to the group of patients who underwent rehabilitation with the use of passive splint therapy. During the re-examination, it was established that in both studied groups there was an improvement in the condition of the patients relative to the initial level, but with an advantage in the individuals of group 2. At rest, the activity of the masticatory muscles on the right side decreased statistically significantly (p<0.05) compared to the initial level in group 1 by 23.8%, group 2 by 47.4%; on the left side – by 22.6% and 41.7%, respectively. The average activity of the temporal muscles in group 1 did not change (p>0.05); in group 2, it decreased on the right side by 25.9%, on the left side by 33.3% (p<0.05). Indices of symmetry of masticatory and temporal muscle activity at rest continued to characterize the relatively symmetrical tension of these groups; there was a decrease in the activity preference of masticatory muscles over temporal muscles - in group 1 by 18.5%, in group 2 - by 23.3% (р<0.05). A statistically significant improvement compared to the initial result (p<0.05) was achieved in both groups according to the results with functional load. The improvement of activity of the masticatory muscles on the right side was 23.1% in group 1, 23.5% in group 2 (р<0.05); from the left - 46.8% and 48.8%, respectively (p<0.05). The reduction of excessive bioelectric activity due to CA of the temporal muscles was 16.1% on the right side in group 1, 14.0% on the left side, and 36.1% and 40.9%, respectively, in group 2 (р<0.05). Symmetry of occlusion also improved - in group 1 by 9.7%, in group 2 - by 15.1%. Conclusions. Means of physical therapy improve the effectiveness of dental interventions, therefore, it is advisable to use them to reduce the severity of pathological high bioelectric activity of the masticatory muscles, which is the basis for improving the functioning of the orofacial zone in patients with bruxism.

History of Health at Cayo Santiago-An Investigation of Environmental and Genetic Influences on the Skeletal Remains of the Introduced Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta) Colony.

The Cayo Santiago rhesus macaque colony is a renowned primate population that has experienced significant natural and anthropogenic ecological variation in their 85-year history. Demographic and familial information is also tracked and collated for the majority of monkeys. Thus, the health history of rhesus macaques at Cayo Santiago should reflect the impacts of both environmental and genetic factors. In this study, we utilized a sample of skeletal remains comprised of 2787 individuals (1571 females, 1091 males), born between 1938 and 2017 from the derived skeletal collection of the primate colony to assess variation in survivorship, pathology, bone mineral density (BMD), and dental eruption status, in the context of hurricane impacts, nutritional fluctuations, and matriline genealogy. Results demonstrated that rhesus macaques at Cayo Santiago exhibit a range of skeletal pathologies that encompass biomedical and archaeological significance, multiple etiologies, severities, locations, and types, in addition to a secular trend of declining BMD that is hypothesized to reflect decreasing physical activity levels under increasing population densities. Specifically, hurricane impacts were found to increase the rate of systemic disease, decrease BMD in young adults, and delay eruption of the primary dentition. Certain matrilines exhibited heightened levels of systemic disease at early ages while others exhibited greater rates of congenital disease. Early-life adversity, through the experience of major hurricanes, may enhance inflammatory pathways, heightening the risk of disease and accelerating the aging process leading to reduced BMD. Such impacts may underly greater levels of observed infection post-hurricane through intensification of pathogen transmission and disease rates brought on by hurricane-adaptive social strategies that favor closer proximity. Familial susceptibility to disease indicates heritable host genetic factors are likely influencing disease patterning in the population. A cluster of congenital diseases may most convincingly illustrate this, or alternatively reflects low levels of genetic diversity in the population.

Managing Large Perforated Internal Root Resorption With Partial Pulpectomy: A Case Report.

Internal root resorption (IRR) is a complex and often asymptomatic dental condition that can severely compromise tooth vitality and function. This case report presents the successful management of a perforated large IRR lesion in a 49-year-old female using an ultraconservative approach involving partial pulpectomy (PP) using calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement. The patient, initially presenting with an asymptomatic resorptive lesion in her left first premolar, underwent ultraconservative PP following diagnosis via conventional radiography and cone beam computed tomography. Despite encountering excessive bleeding during treatment, the tampon technique using CEM cement allowed reasonable hemostasis and effective sealing of the pulp stump, facilitating the preservation of tooth structure. Follow-up at 2 weeks and 2 years showed positive outcomes, including cessation of the resorptive process and normal periodontal health. This case demonstrates the efficacy of vital pulp therapy, specifically partial pulpectomy, in managing advanced IRR and underscores the potential for tooth preservation and long-term stability through an ultraconservative approach.

DENTAL HEALTH STATUS OF BETA THALASSEMIA PATIENTS

Background: Beta thalassemia is a genetic hematological disorder characterized by chronic anemia, frequent blood transfusions, and iron overload. The systemic complications of this condition significantly impact oral health, leading to craniofacial abnormalities, malocclusion, and an increased risk of dental diseases. Objective: To evaluate and compare the dental health status of 50 beta thalassemia patients and 50 healthy controls, focusing on overjet, overbite, spacing, periodontitis, mucosal pallor, and DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth) scores. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 100 participants, comprising 50 beta thalassemia patients and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Clinical examinations assessed dental parameters, including overjet, overbite, spacing, periodontal health (CPI score), mucosal pallor, and DMFT scores. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (chi-square test and independent t-tests) with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Results:Overjet, Overbite and spacing in beta thalassemia patients exhibited significantly higher as to controls.Periodontitis: Higher CPI scores in beta thalassemia patients were seen compared to controls indicate increased periodontal disease prevalence. Mucosal Pallor: Mucosal pallor scores were significantly higherinpatientsreflecting anemia-related changes.DMFT Scores: Beta thalassemia patients demonstrated higher DMFT scores. Conclusion: Beta thalassemia significantly affects dental health, manifesting as increased malocclusion, periodontal disease, mucosal pallor, and caries prevalence. These findings underscore the need for integrated dental care tailored to this patient population, including early orthodontic interventions, regular periodontal treatments, and preventive strategies to mitigate oral health challenges.

Characteristics and Surgical Management of Bilateral Body Mandibular Fractures: A 23-Year Experience.

Background/Objectives: Mandibular fractures are among the most common facial injuries. Bilateral fractures of the mandibular body region (BBMFs), however, are rare. The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze the characteristics, surgical management, and outcomes of BBMFs in a third-level trauma center in northern Italy. Methods: Between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2023, the following data were collected about patients hospitalized for BBMFs: age, sex, cause of fracture, dental status, degree of mandibular atrophy, surgical approach, number and thickness of plates used, concomitant maxillofacial fractures, length of hospital stay, and outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. Results: During the study period, 26 patients (11 males and 15 females) presented with BBMFs, of which five were dentate (median age, 19 years) and 21 edentulous (median age, 80 years). The primary cause of trauma was road traffic accidents (RTAs) in dentate patients and falls in edentulous patients. In most dentate patients, fractures were treated using an intraoral approach with rigid or mixed fixation, using ≤1.4 mm thick plates. Edentulous patients were primarily treated using an extraoral approach and rigid fixation with ≥1.5 mm plates. The use of plates ≥ 1.5 mm was statistically associated with edentulous patients (p = 0.042) and with increasing degrees of atrophy (p = 0.020). Conclusions: This study shows that BBMFs are uncommon injuries, associated with high-impact trauma in dentate patients and medium- or low-impact trauma, such as falls, in edentulous patients. Internal fixation was predominantly rigid, with thicker plates used as the degree of mandibular atrophy increased.

ЗНАЧИМОСТЬ ЗДОРОВЬЯ ПОЛОСТИ РТА ВО ВРЕМЯ БЕРЕМЕННОСТИ

This article discusses the dynamic monitoring of oral health in pregnant women, emphasizing the increasing incidence of dental diseases during pregnancy. The study's objective was to identify changes in dental and periodontal conditions and assess the correlation between oral health, hemoglobin levels, and iron deficiency anemia. Conducted at based at the women's consultation department of Clinical Hospital No.5 in Volgograd, the research involved 200 pregnant women aged 18-40, who underwent initial and follow-up oral exams. Results showed a high caries prevalence, especially in the 18-20 age group, and a significant correlation between hemoglobin levels and caries progression in women with anemia. Acute caries progression was observed in a notable portion of the participants, with new carious lesions forming in previously intact teeth. Dynamic monitoring of oral health during pregnancy facilitates early detection and prevention of dental diseases, significantly improving maternal and infant health outcomes. The study highlights the importance of routine dental check-ups and preventive strategies, suggesting further research in this area. The findings could guide the development of clinical recommendations and increase awareness among healthcare professionals and pregnant women regarding the importance of oral care during pregnancy. This study also emphasizes the need for educational programs aimed at pregnant women, educating them about the impact of oral diseases on both maternal and fetal health. The results provide critical insights for formulating comprehensive preventive healthcare programs aimed at enhancing dental health and ensuring the well-being of mothers and their children during pregnancy and postpartum. A comprehensive approach that includes outreach to pregnant women helps develop sustainable oral health habits and increases their adherence to preventative measures. Overall, this research underscores the necessity for integrated healthcare approaches that consider both oral and general health, fostering better health outcomes for families and encouraging proactive involvement in preventive care.

ОЦЕНКА ВЛИЯНИЯ ДЛИТЕЛЬНЫХ БЕГОВЫХ НАГРУЗОК НА ВЕРОЯТНОСТЬ ВОЗНИКНОВЕНИЯ КАРИЕСА ЗУБОВ

Recently, there has been a popularization of participation in marathons and ultramarathons: the number of amateur athletes engaged in running is increasing, and therefore the number of starts is increasing, both in the official sports segment and in the commercial sector. The development of aerobic capabilities at long and ultra-long distances requires significant physiological resources from the human body. Increased physical activity, as well as emotional stress associated with competition, are an integral part of competitions such as marathons and ultramarathons. High-intensity exercises associated with running long and ultra-long distances suppress temporary immunity, both local and general. The compensatory response to this stress is an immunosuppressive response, which has a certain reaction in all organs and systems, including the oral cavity. Poor dental health in athletes can negatively impact training, performance and well-being both in everyday life and during the training and competition phases. In this regard, dental diseases can have a negative impact on the performance of track and field athletes, as has been shown in regional studies in different countries. This study is devoted to the study of the effect of prolonged running loads on the change in the dental status of participants in marathons and ultramarathons.

Dental characteristics in Pallister-Killian Syndrome using Cone Beam Computed Tomography: Illustrated case report

Pallister-Killian Syndrome (PKS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the mosaic presence of a supernumerary isochromosome consisting of two short arms of chromosome 12, leading to a variety of complications, including those related to oral and dental health. This case report marks the first case report on the dental characteristics of a patient with PKS using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). A 17-year-old female with PKS was reported exhibiting bilateral maxillary sinus hypoplasia, along with taurodontism in teeth n°15 and n°16, and an unusual “crayon-like” morphology in teeth n°14, n°15 and n°25. Moreover, hypoplasia of the sphenoidal sinuses, accompanied by left sphenoidal sinusitis, was noted. A multidisciplinary dental approach is advocated for managing individuals with PKS. Further research incorporating a larger sample is critical to comprehensively assessing the dental features of PKS using dental radiography. Additionally, the development of an open-source CBCT database cataloging dental characteristics for rare dental conditions, including PKS, may be a suitable tool to access to reference images and to share information on orphan diseases with dental implications.

Variation in Salivary pH Based on Sugar Consumption

This research investigate the impact of sugar consumtion on salivary pH,highlighting its implication for oral health.1.Background/Objectives: The study aimed to analyzes the effect of excessive sugar intake,a key factor in the development of dental condition.2.Methods: The study involved 45 students aged 20-23 years.Saliva samples were collected at four intervals:before sugar intake,immediately after,30 minutes later,and one hour post-consumtion.Samples were obtain via drainage,and pH was measuredusing indicator strips.3.Results:The data revealed a significant drop in salivary pH immediately after sugar consumtion,decreasing from an initial pH of 7 to 5.5.Partial recovery was observed,with pH reaching 6.5 after one hour.This temporary acidification of the oral enviroment confirms the link between sugar intake and an increased risk of dental caries.4.Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of maintaining optimal salivary pH to prevent enamel demineralization and support natural remineralization.It also underscore the need for public education to reduce sugar consumtion and adopt effective oral hygiene practices.This research contrubutes to undestanding the dietary impact on oral health and suggests preventive measures to lower the incidence of dental issues.

Correlation of Dental and Periodontal Status With HIV Presence and Initial CD4 Counts: An Albanian Prospective Observational Study

Correlation of Dental and Periodontal Status With HIV Presence and Initial CD4 Counts: An Albanian Prospective Observational Study

Morphological study of hard dental tissue condition with various types of dental deposits

Today, it has been established that the primary factor in preventing dental caries is controlling the level and type of dental deposits. However, the literature has not yet addressed the specific morphological changes in the hard dental tissues when non-mineralized and mineralized dental plaque is present on the tooth surface. The aim of this study was to examine the microscopic structure of the cuticle and hard dental tissues and to assess the X-ray spectral changes associated with different types of dental deposits. Epimicroscopic and X-ray spectral examinations were performed on 32 teeth with various types of supragingival deposits, extracted for orthodontic and surgical indications. Each tooth was cut in the vestibulo-oral direction using a diamond bur at low speed, then one half was polished, stained with PAS-Alcian blue, and photographed at different magnifications in epiprojection. Samples were carbon-coated in a vacuum chamber, and the inorganic components in the cuticle and mineralized deposits were assessed using the Link AN 10.85s micro X-ray analyzer. Thin sections of the other tooth halves were prepared, stained with PAS-Alcian blue, and examined under the “Olympus” microscope at various magnifications. Statistical analysis was performed using standard parametric methods with “Statistica 6.0” and “Microsoft Excel 2002” software. Significant findings in the hard dental tissues included the presence of non-mineralized (soft plaque, dental biofilm), mineralized (dental calculus), and smoker's plaque. In areas with soft plaque, enamel prisms remained intact, with no changes in the enamel-dentin junction or dentin, though the cuticle was nearly absent. In areas with dental biofilm, enamel thickening, the absence of characteristic enamel prism patterns, fragmentation of the reticular layer, and formation of interglobular dentin were observed. Morphological changes in mineralized deposits included enamel thinning, prism disorganization, localized hypermineralization, destroyed enamel-dentin junctions, and “dead tracts” in the dentin. In cases with smoker's plaque, nicotine pigment accumulated in Retzius line biomineralization zones, along with thickening of the reticular layer and “dead tracts” in the deeper dentin layers. A comparison of the main inorganic components (Ca, P, Mg, Ca/P) in the cuticle and mineralized deposits showed significant differences in phosphate, magnesium, and Ca/P ratios, indicating disrupted metabolic processes at the “enamel-oral fluid” interface, promoting calculus formation. Thus, the morphological and X-ray spectral changes observed in the enamel and surrounding tissues provide an objective assessment of tissue condition with various types of deposits. These findings should be considered in selecting a scaling method.

Is Teledentistry as Effective as Clinical Dental Diagnosis in Pediatric Patients?

Teledentistry integrates telecommunications with dental practice, facilitating the exchange of clinical information and images for remote dental consultation and treatment planning. This approach enables dental care access across long distances, addressing the need for flexible healthcare solutions. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of teledentistry compared to clinical in-person dental diagnosis in pediatric patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study sample consisted of 200 children aged 3-13 years, each undergoing both teledentistry-based and in-person clinical dental diagnosis. Caries index scores, including DMFT/dmft and DMFS/dmfs, as well as the identification of specific dental conditions such as molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH), black tooth staining, periodontal disease, dental trauma, and orthodontic anomalies, were recorded in both diagnostic settings. Statistical analysis was conducted using chi-square, Wilcoxon, and Fisher's Exact tests. The mean age of participants was 7.86 ± 2.40 years. Caries index scores (DMFT/dmft, DMFS/dmfs) showed compatibility between teledentistry and clinical diagnoses. While "d/D, f/F, ds/DS, fs/FS" scores were observed to be higher in clinical diagnoses compared to teledentistry, the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Scores for "m/M" and "ms/MS" were identical in both diagnostic methods. Additionally, the prevalence of dental anomalies, including MIH, black tooth staining, periodontal disease, dental trauma, and orthodontic anomalies, was comparable across both diagnostic approaches. Findings suggest that teledentistry serves as an effective alternative to clinical in-person diagnosis for pediatric dental consultations and treatment planning, demonstrating comparable accuracy in identifying caries and dental anomalies in children.

HUBUNGAN PERILAKU PENDERITA DIABETES MELLITUS DENGAN STATUS KEBERSIHAN GIGI DAN MULUT

The background of this research is that oral hygiene is an important aspect of healthcare, especially for diabetes mellitus patients who are prone to oral complications. Diabetes mellitus, characterized by high blood sugar levels, can trigger bacterial growth and worsen oral hygiene. The problem is that the behavior of diabetes mellitus patients greatly affects their oral hygiene status, yet many diabetes mellitus patients exhibit inadequate oral care behaviors. This study aims to determine the relationship between the behavior of diabetes mellitus patients and their oral hygiene status at Puskesmas Mutiara Barat, Pidie District. The research methodology employs a cross-sectional design with a sample of 40 diabetes mellitus patients visiting the Mutiara Barat Health Center in Pidie District. Data collection was conducted through interviews using a questionnaire and assessment of oral and dental hygiene status using the OHIS index. The research took place from March 8 to May 2 2024. The results showed that of the 40 respondents, 62.5% had poor behavior and 62.5% had poor oral and dental hygiene status. Bivariate analysis using the Chi-Square test indicated a significant relationship between the behavior of diabetes mellitus patients and their oral and dental hygiene status (p = 0.000). Poor behavior, such as not regularly maintaining oral hygiene, contributes to poor oral conditions in diabetes mellitus patients. The study concludes that there is a significant relationship between the behavior of diabetes mellitus patients and their oral and dental hygiene status. It is recommended that diabetes mellitus patients improve their oral hygiene habits, control blood sugar levels well, and regularly check their teeth. Health workers are expected to provide comprehensive and ongoing education on the importance of maintaining oral and dental hygiene for diabetes mellitus patients.

Current Knowledge on Craniodental Anatomy and Dental Pathology in Golden Snub‐Nosed Monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana): A Comparative Review

ABSTRACTThe Sichuan golden snub‐nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana) is a rare and endangered species endemic to China that occupies a particularly important position in the evolutionary history of Rhinopithecus species. Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall well‐being in both humans and nonhuman primates. We review the current limited literature on the dental characteristics and dental pathologies related to the golden snub‐nosed monkey, based on skeleton data and morphological evidence. The results indicated that this species possesses dental characteristics that are remarkably different from that of other primates such as larger‐sized molars with blunt cusp crests, tiny incisor teeth, and strong mandibles with well‐developed masticatory muscles. From limited research, dental diseases include caries, periodontal diseases, tooth loss, tooth wear, and other diseases, which can be found in most primates, including golden snub‐nosed monkeys. In conclusion, these physiological features have gradually adapted to different environments to meet the requirements of their function. Understanding the tooth characteristics and dental health status of R. roxellana can provide valuable insights into their evolutionary history, dietary habits, and overall health, which is of great significance for the conservation of the entire population. An epidemiological survey and safe and effective inspection methods of the dental health of golden snub‐nosed monkeys should be conducted to facilitate conservation behaviors that presented in the future. It is also recommended that zoos link diet and dental health to improve animal welfare.

Correction: Oral and dental health status in patients with chronic headache

Correction: Oral and dental health status in patients with chronic headache

The use of antibiotics in the management of odontogenic facial swellings in children and adolescents: A scoping review.

To identify evidence and guidelines relating to the use of antibiotics in the management of odontogenic facial swellings in children and adolescents. Articles relating to odontogenic facial swellings in children and adolescents aged 0-16 years were included. Articles in which paediatric data could not be differentiated from adult data or where the age of participants were unknown were excluded. Also excluded were guidelines that did not provide age-specific recommendations. Resources that exclusively focused on localised odontogenic infections, Ludwig's Angina, neck infections, orbital cellulitis and sepsis and those that pooled data related to odontogenic facial swelling and other medical or dental conditions were excluded. MEDLINE, PubMed and EMBASE were searched with no date restrictions. Google Advanced Search was used to identify grey literature. Of the 5251 identified articles, 22 primary studies and 32 secondary sources of evidence were included after full text review. No articles evaluated the use of specific diagnostic criteria used to support antibiotic prescribing. Three studies evaluated the effectiveness of antibiotic regimes in the management of odontogenic facial swellings in young people. Antibiotic regimes varied; oral amoxicillin was the most frequently recommended first-line therapy, followed by phenoxymethylpenicillin. Most articles recommended antibiotics as an adjunct to dental treatment. The weight of the child, penicillin allergy/ hypersensitivity and clinical response to therapy were commonly reported to influence antibiotic prescribing. Inconsistencies between guidelines were identified which is likely due to a lack of evidence regarding the use of antibiotics in the paediatric population. High quality, robust research with clearly defined outcome measures and thorough reporting is required to develop comprehensive, evidence-based guidelines for children and adolescents with odontogenic facial swellings. This paper allows clinicians to compare guideline recommendations, understand the context of these guidelines and review local practices.

Design and Efficacy of Custom-Made Cleaning Splints for the Approximal Plaque Removal-A Laboratory Study.

Objectives: Cleaning splints (CSs) can facilitate interdental brush (IDB) insertion and guide IDBs during cleaning movement. Cleaning efficacy with and without CSs was to be assessed and compared for a fully dentate (FD) and a partially edentulous (PE) situation. Methods: For two maxillary typodont models simulating either an FD situation or a PE situation with every second tooth missing, suitable IDBs were selected and each cleaning splint was designed and fabricated by 3D-printing. Before and after standardized cleaning, model teeth were photographed at three timepoints: (T1) clean surface, (T2) surface coated with artificial plaque, and (T3) after IDB cleaning. For each of the four test groups differing in dental status (FD, PE) and CS use (without, with), n = 10 tests/group were completed. After aligning corresponding photographs, pixel-based color difference ratios (T2-T3)/(T2-T1) were calculated. Approximal cleaning efficacy was set as the mean value over predefined regions of interest. Effects of CS use and dental status were analyzed with two-way ANOVA (α = 0.05). Results: CS use significantly improved mean approximal cleaning efficacy for the PE model (p = 0.001), whereas no difference was found with the FD model (p = 0.381). Improved cleaning efficacy with the PE model was only found in combination with a CS (factor combination model × CS use: p = 0.003). Conclusions: Cleaning splints might have the potential to improve interproximal hygiene and can be recommended for clinical use. Clinical studies should validate the results of this in vitro study and clarify if CSs could be beneficial for patients with restricted manual skills.

Association Between Change in Prognostic Nutritional Index During Neoadjuvant Therapy and Dental Occlusal Support in Patients with Esophageal Cancer Under Neoadjuvant Therapy: A Retrospective Longitudinal Pilot Study.

Background: A high prognostic nutritional index (PNI) is associated with good prognosis in patients with esophageal cancer. However, nutritional status often decreases during neoadjuvant therapy. Functional tooth units (FTUs) provide an index for the status of posterior occlusal support. We have previously reported that low PNI is related to low FTUs. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to retrospectively examine whether the status of occlusal support relates to changes in PNI during neoadjuvant therapy in patients with esophageal cancer. Methods: This study included 34 patients who underwent neoadjuvant therapy before esophagectomy (32 men, 2 women; age, 36-82 years) in 2012 at Okayama University Hospital. Patients were divided into the good occlusal support group (FTUs ≥ 11, n = 18) or poor occlusal support group (FTUs < 11, n = 16), and changes in PNI during neoadjuvant therapy were investigated. Results: PNI decreased significantly after neoadjuvant therapy, particularly in the good occlusal support group, and became more dispersed after neoadjuvant therapy. Decreases in PNI after neoadjuvant therapy showed a significant positive correlation with good occlusal support by multiple regression analysis (p = 0.03). The proportions of patients provided with nutritional intervention (p = 0.02) or early dental intervention (p = 0.04) were lower in the good occlusal support group than in the poor occlusal support group. Conclusions: Even in patients with esophageal cancer with good occlusal support experienced significant declines in PNI during neoadjuvant therapy, potentially due to delayed nutritional and dental interventions. Early multidisciplinary interventions are thus recommended for all patients, regardless of preoperative dental or nutritional status.