DMFT Scores Research Articles

Starch intake and caries increment: A longitudinal study in Finnish adults.

To evaluate whether changes in starch intake (in terms of amount and food sources) were associated with increments in dental caries among adults. 11-year longitudinal study (2000-2011) with duplicate assessments for all variables. A 128-item food frequency questionnaire was used to estimate intake of starch (g/day) and six starch-rich food groups (potatoes, potato products, roots and tubers, pasta, wholegrains, and legumes). Dental caries was assessed through clinical examinations and summarised using the number of decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT score). The relationship between quintiles of starch intake and DMFT score was tested in linear hybrid models adjusting for confounders. Northern and Southern regions of Finland. 922 adults, aged 30-88 years. Mean starch intake was 127.6 (SD: 47.8) g/day at baseline and 120.7 (55.8) g/day at follow-up. Mean DMFT score was 21.7 (6.4) and 22.4 (6.2) at baseline and follow-up. Starch intake was inversely associated with DMFT score cross-sectionally (rate ratio for highest versus lowest quintile of intake: -2.73, 95%CI: -4.64, -0.82) but not longitudinally (0.32, 95%CI: -0.12, 0.76). By food sources, the intakes of pasta (-2.77, 95%CI: -4.21, -1.32) and wholegrains (-1.91, 95%CI: -3.38, -0.45) were negatively associated with DMFT score cross-sectionally but not longitudinally (0.03, 95%CI: -0.33, 0.39 and -0.10, 95%CI: -0.44, 0.24, respectively). Changes in the amount and sources of starch intake were not associated with changes in dental caries. Further studies should be conducted in different settings and age groups while focusing on starch digestibility and specific sources of starch.

Starch intake and changes in dental caries among adults: A longitudinal study in Finland.

To evaluate the association between starch intake (amount and type) and changes in dental caries among adults over 11 years. Data from 1679 adults, aged 30 years and over, who participated in three consecutive surveys in Finland were pooled for analysis. Participants completed a validated semi-structured 128-item food frequency questionnaire at baseline, from which total starch intake (g/day and % energy intake) and the intake (g/day) of seven food groups high in starch (potatoes, potato products, roots and tubers, refined grains, pasta, wholegrains, and legumes) were estimated. Dental caries was determined during clinical examinations and summarized using the DMFT score, which was treated as a repeated outcome. The association between baseline starch intake and 11-year-change in DMFT score was tested in linear mixed-effects models adjusted for sociodemographic factors, behaviors, sugar intake, and health status. The mean DMFT score was 21.9 (95%CI: 21.6, 22.2) in 2000 (baseline), increasing by 0.47 (95% CI: 0.38, 0.56) in 2004/05, and additionally by 0.33 (95%CI: 0.20, 0.45) in 2011. Total starch intake was not associated with change in DMFT. This finding was similar irrespective of how starch intake was expressed (g/day or %EI). Of the seven food groups evaluated, only the intake of pasta was inversely associated with the DMFT score at baseline, but not with the change in DMFT over time. Neither the amount nor the type of starch intake was associated with changes in dental caries over 11 years among Finnish adults.

Dental Health Literacy among Highly Skilled Professionals in India: A Pilot Study

Purpose: Research in medical settings has consistently demonstrated that health literacy is essential for patient adherence and comprehension to medical/dental instructions including prescriptions and improving positive holistic health outcomes. Despite its recognized importance, the role of literacy in dentistry has received limited focus. This study aimed to assess the level of oral health literacy among professionals in a multinational company, using the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Dentistry-30 (REALD-30) as the measurement tool. Methods: A convenience sample of 111 adults was recruited from a dental camp held at two locations within an IT firm. Oral health literacy was measured and analysed using the REALD-30 scale. Participants also participated in interviews to collect sociodemographic information, dental visit history, dental needs, global oral health ratings, dental knowledge, practices, and comprehension. Additionally, clinical examinations were conducted to record the DMFT index (Decayed; D component, Missing; M component, and Filled; F component Teeth), as well as the presence of dental stains and calculus. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 13. Results: REALD-30 scores ranged from a low of 8 to a high of 25. Participants who had decayed, missing, or filled teeth, or a DMFT score higher than one, exhibited lower oral health literacy compared to the reference group. Similarly, lower oral health literacy was observed in participants with dental stains or calculus. Conclusions: Effective communication with patients is crucial for delivering high-quality dental care. The study concluded that a significant proportion of the highly educated professional group of people has less oral health literacy, which may obstruct their basic ability to understand and process the fundamental oral health information.

Distal surface caries in the mandibular second molar in the presence of a partially erupted/impacted third molar

Distal surface caries in the mandibular second molar is a common outcome of impaction of the adjacent third molar. To determine the prevalence of this type of caries in the Netherlands, 250 radiographs were evaluated. The prevalence among the research population was 26%. Risk factors for developing distal surface caries in the mandibular second molar were partially erupted/impacted third molars with a mesioangular or horizontal angulation, an LD loss of ≥ 2mm and an increased modified DMFT score. The relation between the point of contact of the third molar and the adjacent mandibular second molar, on the one hand, and, on the other, the cemento-enamel junction of the mandibular second molar and the prevalence of distal surface caries almost reached statistical significance (p = 0.052). The relatively low prevalence of distal surface caries in the Netherlands is probably related to the current clinical guidelines recommending early extraction of partially erupted/impacted third molars, particularly in cases of third molars with a mesioangular or horizontal angulation.

Obesity and dental caries in Saudi Arabia: a correlated study

BackgroundObesity and dental caries are two major global public health concerns. There have been conflicting reports about the relationship between obesity and dental caries. This study intends to examine the link between obesity and dental caries across the five regions of Saudi Arabia.MethodsThe study involved 380 participants, which was a cross-sectional survey, with an age range of 6 to 14. We distributed a self-reported questionnaire to assess the participants body mass index (BMI) and caries (dmft/DMFT). In this study, descriptive analysis, student t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multiple linear regression analysis were used.ResultsThe study comprised 380 respondents, consisting of females (60.8%) and males (39.2%), with a mean age of 9.1 years and mean BMI of 26.3. The prevalence of caries among the study respondents was 66.6% (Table 2), and this prevalence was higher among females (67.5%), those who consumed sugar more than six times (77.5%), those who brushed their teeth once per day (80.3%), those who used no dental floss (68.4%), those who did not use mouthwash or rinse (68.4%), and those in the east and center regions (100%). The obese possess a statistically significant (P < 0.05) higher mean dmft/DMFT (dmft = 8.00 and DMFT = 6.00). Furthermore, BMI had a negative influence on the DMFT score (b = −0.01, P = 0.776), which was not statistically significant.ConclusionParticipants categorized as obese demonstrated a notably higher mean dmft/DMFT in comparison to their non-obese counterparts. Although BMI showed a negative impact on the DMFT score, this association did not reach statistical significance.

Determinants of oral health among Iranian soldiers: a structural equation modeling study

BackgroundMilitary personnel often face unique challenges in maintaining optimal oral health. This study investigated the oral health status, caries experience, and associated factors among a sample of Iranian soldiers, employing a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach to explore the complex interplay of socioeconomic and behavioral determinants.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 658 male soldiers aged 18–30 years from three military barracks in Fars province, Iran. Data were collected through a structured instrument and clinical oral examinations. The study employs the DMFT index, which measures caries experience based on decayed, missing, and filled teeth, along with the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) to assess overall oral health status. Structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the complex relationships between socioeconomic factors, oral health behaviors, and oral health outcomes.ResultsThe mean DMFT score was 3.57 ± 5.91, and the mean OHIS score was 0.56 ± 1.42. SEM analysis revealed that socioeconomic status (SES) indirectly influenced DMFT and oral hygiene scores, mediated by drug use, oral hygiene practices, dietary sugar consumption, and dental visit frequency. Lower toothbrushing frequency was significantly associated with higher DMFT (Estimate = -0.064, p < 0.001) and OHIS scores (Estimate = -0.637, p < 0.001). Drug use (smoking, qalyan, alcohol) was linked to poorer oral health outcomes, while more frequent dental visits were associated with lower DMFT and OHIS scores.ConclusionThis study reveals the complex interplay between socioeconomic conditions, oral health behaviors, and oral health outcomes among Iranian soldiers. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address modifiable risk factors and improve access to preventive dental care within military settings. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to elucidate further the causal pathways between these factors and oral health outcomes in military populations.

Association Between the Risk of Dental Caries and DLX3 Gene Polymorphisms in Chinese Children.

To explore the association between the risk of dental caries and distal-less homeobox 3 (DLX3) gene in Chinese children. Based on the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) score, the children were divided into a control group (dmft &#61; 0) and a case group (dmft ≥ 1). DLX3 gene (rs11656951 and rs2278163) polymorphisms were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Sanger sequencing methods. Possible association of DLX3 gene (rs11656951 and rs2278163) polymorphisms with dental caries risk was assessed using the chi-squared test. Subgroup analysis of association was assessed by logistic regression analysis for the potential risk factors. The age at which toothbrushing was started, the brushing frequency, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, and regular dental visits were statistically significantly different between case and control groups (p 0.05). The frequencies of rs11656951 TT genotype and T allele were statistically significantly higher in the control group than in the case group. The chi-squared test showed that CT genotype (p &#61; 0.026, OR &#61; 0.613, 95%CI &#61; 0.398-0.944) and TT genotype (p &#61; 0.001, OR &#61; 0.378, 95%CI &#61; 0.212-0.673) were negatively correlated with caries susceptibility. The T allele of rs11656951 was more frequently discovered in the control group, and was statistically significantly associated with decreased caries susceptibility (p &#61; 0.001, OR &#61; 0.636, 95%CI &#61; 0.486-0.831). The G allele of rs2278163 was obviously correlated with elevated caries susceptibility (p &#61; 0.049, OR &#61; 1.314, 95%CI &#61; 1.000-1.725). DLX3 gene rs11656951 TT genotype was a protective factor for caries susceptibility in the subgroups gender, sweets intake, eating before sleep, brushing frequency, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, and dental visits. The GG genotype of rs2278163 was a risk factor for caries in subgroups eating before sleep, brushing without fluoride toothpaste, and regular dental. The TT genotype of rs11656951 was dramatically correlated with reduced caries risk in low (p &#61; 0.004, OR &#61; 0.387, 95%CI &#61; 0.202-0.742) and moderate/high (p &#61; 0.016, OR &#61; 0.360, 95%CI &#61; 0.154-0.840) groups. DLX3 gene rs11656951 TT genotype is a protective factor and rs2278163 GG genotype is a risk factor for caries susceptibility, especially in low and moderate/high subgroups.

The Impact of School-Based Caries Prevention Programs on DMFT Scores and Oral Health Behaviors in School Children

Oral health promotion is recognized as one of the fundamental components of health-promoting schools. However, few studies have demonstrated the efficacy of supportive school environments for school children’s Oral health. This systematic review evaluates the impact of school-based caries prevention programs on DMFT scores and Oral health behaviours in school children. Objective: To evaluate the impact of school-based caries prevention programs on DMFT Scores and Oral Health Behaviors in school children. Methods: Databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Springer, and Science Direct were searched from January 2009 to February 2024. Prisma guidelines were followed; 1, 950 studies were identified on the first search, titles, and abstracts of 500 papers were screened, 500 full-text papers were screened for eligibility, and 25 studies meeting the inclusion criteria were evaluated, relevant information was extracted, and a systematic review was conducted. Twenty-five studies were included in the systematic review. Results: These results indicate the significant role of SCPP among school-going children. Children with school-based caries prevention programs compared to those with no school-based caries prevention programs showed improved DMFT scores, reduced caries increment, healthy oral health behaviours, consistent Oral health hygienic habits, frequent use of flossing, fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinsing, and increased caries prevention knowledge. Conclusions: It was concluded that based on the pooled results, school-based caries prevention programs provide better, easily accessible, and sustainable caries prevention activities to school children to improve DMFT scores and Oral health behaviours.

Impact of Xylitol chewing gum on levels of oral Streptococcus mutans. A systematic review

Objectives. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of xylitol in combating Streptococcus mutans, a key bacterium associated with dental caries. Methods. We performed a search across Scopus, Open Grey, PubMed, Science Direct, and EBSCO databases. After screening and excluding articles that did not meet our predefined inclusion criteria, we selected seven out of the eighty-nine initially identified articles. Data extraction was carried out in three stages: identification, screening, and assessment of eligibility. Results. Among the studies included in this review, six were randomized clinical trials, and one was a before-and-after comparison. Most of these studies indicate that xylitol chewing gum may effectively reduce S. mutans counts, potentially lowering the risk of dental caries. Conclusion. The reviewed studies show that xylitol chewing gum positively affects both the quality and quantity of S. mutans. It inhibits S. mutans adhesion to tooth surfaces, reduces the production of sticky substances, and alters the bacteria's morphology. Consequently, this leads to improvements in plaque index, gingival index, and DMFT scores.

Assessment of Refractive Errors, Dental Caries, and Scoliosis in School Children Aged 6-14 Years: A Study in Durrës Schools

This study aims to assess the prevalence of refractive errors, dental caries, and scoliosis in children aged 6-14 years across several primary and secondary schools in the city of Durrës. The sample includes 370 students from "Vincenc Prendushi", "Nënë Tereza", "Vasil Ziu", "Abedin Dino", and "Bajram Curri" schools. Each school was selected randomly. From each school we have selected different classes and students for further evaluation. Each student underwent a clinical examination to evaluate vision, oral health, and postural status. Refractive errors were assessed using Snellen chart table placed in 6 meters. Dental caries was evaluated through clinical inspection of the teeth, using the DMFT index (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth). Scoliosis was diagnosed through physical examination and the Adams forward bend test, done in physiotherapy lab of Aleksander Moisiu University. The results provide insight into the risk factors and the need for early interventions to improve the overall health of children in this age group. Out of the 370 students, 28% (104 students) were found to have refractive errors, with myopia being the most common condition, affecting 17% (63 students), followed by hyperopia in 9% (33 students), and astigmatism in 2% (8 students). A total of 42% (155 students) exhibited signs of dental caries, with an average DMFT score of 2.8, indicating a moderate level of oral health concerns. Additionally, 12% (45 students) were diagnosed with scoliosis, with mild curvature observed in 8% (30 students) and moderate to severe curvature in 4% (15 students). These findings suggest a significant need for vision correction, oral health education, and orthopedic monitoring in the student population. Early detection and preventive measures in schools are crucial to addressing these health issues effectively and ensuring the well-being of children during their developmental years.

The Oral Health Status and Anthropometric Measurements of Children at Early Childhood Development Centers in an Informal Settlement in Pretoria, South Africa.

Early childhood caries (ECC) continue to increase, especially among low socioeconomic communities. This study was conducted in an informal settlement comprising mostly foreigners who have settled in the area. Given the limited dental and medical services available to these communities, this study aimed to determine the dental and medical disease profile of these inhabitants. The objective was to determine the oral health status and the body mass index (BMI) of children attending crèches in an informal settlement. Oral health data, including dental caries (DC), soft tissue lesions, fluorosis, erosion, and trauma, were recorded using the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended methods. The examiners were calibrated, and all examinations took place at the crèches under natural sunlight. The BMI was calculated by a team of dieticians who were blinded to the oral health status. The height and weight were measured by calibrated examiners under standardized conditions. There were a total of 169 participants; the mean age was 4.02 years (±1.13; 1-7) and there was an equal distribution of males and females (49.7% females and 49.3% males). The prevalence of DC was 39.1%, with 19% having 4 or more carious teeth. The mean decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) and plaque scores [Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S)] were 1.58 (±2.70) and 0.65 (±0.43), respectively, and the mean dmft score increased with increasing age. The mean d component contributed 99% of the total mean dmft score (1.56). The mean BMI was 15.44, and this decreased significantly (p = 0.009) while the OHI increased significantly (p < 0.001) as the number of carious teeth increased. The prevalence of caries was relatively high, and those with caries had multiple decayed teeth. The d component contributed almost 100% to the mean score, indicating a lack of access to dental care. The mean BMI score was inversely proportional to the number of carious teeth, which could imply that those with caries had difficulty eating. Bhayat A, Madiba TK, Beeforth M, et al. The Oral Health Status and Anthropometric Measurements of Children at Early Childhood Development Centers in an Informal Settlement in Pretoria, South Africa. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):903-906.

Early oral colonization of streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli species in infants: Investigating the relationship with maternal and environmental factors, from birth through the sixth month.

To assess the presence of Streptococcus Mutans (S.mutans) and Lactobacillus species (LB) of newborn-mother pairs using the real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Subjects were selected from the patients followed in the Neonatology Clinic of Akdeniz University's Faculty of Medicine between the years 2017-2018. First samples collected within 48 hours after birth, and second samples were at six months. The samples were analyzed for the presence of S.mutans and LB using qRT-PCR. Mothers' smoking habits, education level, occupation, oral hygiene habits, DMFT scores and dietary history; Babies' delivery type, birth weight, feeding type, oral hygiene practices, feeding habits, bottle usage, pacifier usage, consumption of sugary foods, were also recorded. The effect of factors related to both mothers and infants was examined comparatively. S.mutans DNA was detectable in 87% and LB DNA was detected in 37% mothers, while it was undetected in 63% mothers at the first sampling. S.mutans was detected in 37% and, while LB was detected in 5% of the newborns in the first 48 hours of their life. At the second sampling, the S.mutans and LB levels in infants have increased, while there has been no significant change in mothers. A significant relationship was found only between the increase in S.mutans in infants and the presence of erupted teeth. S.mutans and LB were able to colonize on the oral mucosal surfaces of edentulous newborns, with the counts of both bacteria increasing significantly with tooth eruption.

Dental caries status and treatment need among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Dar-Es-Salaam region, Tanzania

BackgroundLiterature shows that pregnant women are more susceptible to dental caries due to several reasons, including changes in salivary flow, reduced pH in the oral cavity, and sugary dietary cravings. The unmet need for care is of special concern, as the failure to obtain treatment can affect the health status of the mother and her unborn child.ObjectivesTo determine dental caries status and treatment needs among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in the Dar-es-Salaam region.Materials and methodsA descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted among 461 pregnant women aged 14–47 years. Informed consent was obtained from participants during data collection. Dental caries status and treatment need were diagnosed according to the WHO criteria. The Data collected was cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 software for generating frequency distribution tables, chi-square tests, and logistic regression analysis. The Confidence Interval was 95% (p < 0.05).ResultsThe overall prevalence of dental caries was 69%, with a mean DMFT score of 2.86 (± 3.39). Untreated dental decay was observed in 60.5% of study participants, which needed more restorative treatment (fillings & RCT) than a tooth extraction. Caries experiences differed significantly among the pregnant women in various gravidity. In logistic regression, dental caries experience was significantly higher among multigravida respondents (p-values = 0.04) (OR: 1.840, CI 1.021–3.319).ConclusionThis study demonstrated a high level of dental caries experience and the presence of treatment needs. Multiple pregnancies were a major factor that contributed to high levels of dental caries.

Caries Risk Assessment in Adults with Highlights to Nutrigenomics and Nutrigenetics

Abstract Caries risk assessment and caries management by risk assessment cannot be related only to children and their parents' answers. Camra and Cariogram have been working for decades in few countries. Prediction and preventive measures are especially important for young adults (16-25 years old), young professionals (25-35 years old), before pregnancy and during menopause. Aim To develop a card for an easy caries risk assessment with chair-aside questions, clinical examination and salivary tests. To draw up a protocol for patient treatment and follow-up related to the caries risk. Methodology It is based on the data of 1,167 participants in 6 different clinical studies conducted within various research trials, granted programmes and projects during the 30-year period from 1988 to 2018. Prediction of risk can be useful if 4 groups, i.e. low risk, moderate risk, high risk and very high risk groups are evaluated. Results Packages of measures were targeted for each group. Among the important factors were the type, habits and frequency of nutrition, detected with 6 targeted questions, lifestyle hygiene with 5 questions, dental status with 6 parameters (DMFT scores, gingival status, size of teeth, etc.) and oral hygiene. Biochemical patterns of saliva, i.e. salivary flow rate and pH, with and without stimulation were included. Low risk and Moderate risk groups of different ages do not need further tests. High risk and Very high risk groups can be additionally tested with chair-aside tests for Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli counts and oral sucrose clearance for preventive evaluation of dental caries management. The card validation and tests last no longer than 40 minutes, 1 page for a single patient. Conclusions Caries risk in adults can be measured, assessed and predicted in relation to nutrigenomics. Treatment behaviour can be managed and targeted for each patient, according to the group for long, lifetime saving of natural teeth in the mouth. In the last 100 years, concentrated and refined foods have decreased all sizes of the upper first and second incisors as a natural physiological response and a change has been observed in the anatomy of canines, making them stronger via enlargement of their MD sizes. From this current academic year, "Caries risk" is included into our new lecture programme.

The Influence of The Role of Parents on Dental and Oral Health From The Severity of Dental Caries in Deaf Children Aged 7-14 At SLB N 1 Bantul

Deaf children in their limitations really need the role of parents. Parental behavior is very important in the formation of behaviors that support or do not support children in maintaining dental and oral hygiene. Dental caries is a disease of dental tissue that is characterized by tissue damage, starting from the surface of the tooth (recess, fissure, and interproximal area) extending towards the pulp. The problem of high DMF-T scores in deaf children aged 7-14 years at SLB N 1 Bantul. The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of the role of parents on dental and oral health from the severity of dental caries in deaf children aged 7-14 at SLB N 1 Bantul. This type of analytical research research with a cross sectional design. The research target was parents (fathers/mothers) and deaf children aged 7-14 years at SLB N 1 Bantul with a total sampling technique using the purposive sampling method. Data collection instruments, questionnaire sheets and examination sheets. The data analysis technique used is the Spearman-rank test. The results of the study showed that the p value (0.020) &lt; 0.05, it can be concluded that there is an influence of the role of parents on dental and oral health reviewed from the severity of dental caries in deaf children aged 7-14 years at SLB N 1 Bantul with sufficient closeness.

Assessment of Chronic Malnutrition and Its Correlation With Oral Health Status in Children Aged Three to Six Years in Jabalpur District, India: An Epidemiological Study.

This study aims to examine the correlation of chronic malnutrition with the oral health status of children aged three to six years. A total of 400 children were selected and divided into four groups based on z-scores. For evaluation of oral health status, teeth were examined for dental caries using the decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth (DMFT) scores. Salivary samples were collected to measure salivary flow rate (SFR), pH, and salivary buffering capacity (SBC). Teeth were also visualized to detect the presence or absence of enamel hypoplasia. The data obtained was statistically analyzed (p<0.05). A total of 400 children participated and were also categorized into mild, moderate, and severe obesity according to the z-scores. The mean DMFT scores among adequately nourished children were 2.4086; with severely malnourished and severely obese children, the mean values were found to be 1.0652 and 1.4286, respectively. The mean SFR among children with adequate nutrition was 1.0366, and the mean flow rate among children with severe malnutrition and obesity was 0.5348 and 0.4036, respectively. The mean salivary pH among children with adequate nutrition was 7.1295, and the mean values for participants with severe malnutrition and severe obesity were found to be 6.4772 and 7.6521, respectively. The mean SBC among children with adequate nutrition was found to be 4.4861; for severely malnourished children and those with severe obesity, the values were 3.2472 and 2.8332, respectively. There was an absence of enamel hypoplasia in children with adequate nutrition, whereas a total of five participants with severe malnutrition and three children with severe obesity were found to have hypoplastic lesions, respectively. Malnutrition exerts a negative impact on the overall oral health of children. It is critical to diagnose the effects of malnutrition on children's oral environments in order to provide appropriate treatment and enhance their quality of life.

Do Parental and Children’s Dental Anxiety Affect Childhood Dental Caries?

Background: Dental anxiety is an unpleasant reaction to fear or stress related to the dental environment and can be observed in both parents and children as dental patients. Despite several studies challenging the significance of parental anxiety in influencing a child's response to dental treatment, conflicting results have emerged regarding the impact of both parental and children's anxiety on the development of dental caries. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the association between parental and children's dental anxiety and the occurrence of dental caries in children. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 7 - 12-year-old students and their parents in schools of Rasht, Iran, utilized the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) for parents and the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale (MCDAS) questionnaire for children. Participants were chosen through a multistage sampling process. A trained dentist assessed children's dental caries using the DMFT/dmft (decayed, missing, and filled teeth) Index. The data were analyzed using the chi-square test and linear regression. Results: The study included 275 parents and an equal number of children, with a mean child age of 9.32 ± 1.85 years. The findings indicated a significant relationship between maternal dental anxiety and DMFT + dmft scores in boys (P = 0.049). The study revealed that the number of teeth with caries experience (P = 0.023), child's sex (P = 0.007), history of dental clinic visits (P = 0.045), and maternal dental anxiety (P = 0.043) significantly influenced the child's dental anxiety. Conclusions: Children with anxious parents showed lower DMFT/dmft values, suggesting increased attention to their dental health. The study highlights the impact of parental dental anxiety on children's oral well-being and emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies to address dental anxiety in both parents and children.

Cross-sectional survey and analysis of factors influencing the prevalence of dental caries among older individuals aged 65-74 in Guangdong Province in 2021

BackgroundThe prevalence of oral diseases is subject to change over time. In 2021, Guangdong Province conducted its fourth survey assessing the oral health status of individuals aged 65–74.Materials and methodsEvaluation criteria and potential influencing factors were identified. A sample of residents aged 65–74 from 13 designated monitoring sites in Guangdong Province was randomly selected for the study. Spearman correlation analysis was employed to investigate the clinical correlation between influencing factors and evaluation criteria. Negative binomial and zero-inflated negative binomial regression models were utilized to examine the factors influencing caries prevalence. In contrast, logistic regression was employed to identify the risk factors for caries occurrence. A p-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsThe prevalence of caries rate of crowns, roots, and teeth were 76.36%, 52.25%, and 79.2%, respectively. Individuals with periodontal pockets exhibited a significantly higher risk of root caries. The presence of dental calculus significantly exacerbated the occurrence of crown, root, and dental caries, and increased the risk of crown and dental caries. Consuming sweet foods once or more a week notably increased the average root decayed score (D of roots), the prevalence rate of root caries, and the D score of the Decayed, Missing, and Filled teeth [DMFT] index in individuals already afflicted with this condition. Similarly, the consumption of sweetened drinks significantly elevated the risk of crown and root caries, exacerbating overall caries progression. Frequencies of manual toothbrush and toothpick cleaning showed a negative correlation with average tooth missing score (MT). In contrast, the frequency of manual/electric toothbrush and toothpick cleaning was negatively correlated with the DMFT index. Engaging in dental diagnosis and treatment behaviors significantly increased the number of filled crowns (F), MT, and DMFT scores while reducing the prevalence of dental caries.ConclusionsIn Guangdong Province, caries prevalence among older individuals aged 65–74 remains substantial. Relevant professionals and institutions must provide comprehensive guidance and assistance to the older population, emphasizing the importance of reducing the consumption of sweets and sweetened beverages, adopting correct tooth brushing techniques and frequency (at least twice daily), timely treatment of periodontal diseases, conducting regular epidemiological caries surveys, and addressing economic barriers to accessing caries diagnosis and treatment services.

The Relationship Between Knowledge of Dental Caries and the Incidence of Dental Caries in Pregnant Women at Polindes Jungkarang, Sampang, Madura

Problem: Based on primary data collected from pregnant women at Polindes Jungkarang, Sampang Regency, the average DMF-T score was 5.37, indicating that dental caries in pregnant women is still in the high category. This has not yet reached the target set in the National Action Plan (RAN), where the DMF-T value should be 4.1 for all ages. Research Objective: To determine the relationship between knowledge about caries and the high incidence of dental caries in pregnant women at Polindes Jungkarang, Sampang Regency. Research Method: This research is an analytical study using a cross-sectional method, with a sample of pregnant women visiting Polindes Jungkarang, Sampang Regency, from January to March 2024. The data collection instruments used were a questionnaire to measure knowledge about dental caries and a DMF-T examination sheet to identify caries. The analysis technique used was Spearman's rho test. Results: There is a relationship between knowledge about caries and the high incidence of dental caries in pregnant women at Polindes Jungkarang

Efficacy of antimicrobial peptide P113 oral health care products on the reduction of oral bacteria number and dental plaque formation in a randomized clinical assessment

Background/purposeDental plaque is the main cause leading to the dental caries and periodontal diseases. The main purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of oral spray containing the antimicrobial peptide P-113 on the reduction of oral bacteria number and dental plaque formation in a randomized clinical assessment. Materials and methodsThis study was divided into two parts. In Part A, we investigated the user experiences with the P-113 containing oral spray. In part B, 14 subjects in the experimental group used the P-113-containing oral spray, while 14 subjects in the control group used a placebo without the P-113 in a 4-week clinical trial. Participants were asked to use the P-113-containing oral spray or placebo 3 times per day and 5 times per use. Moreover, 3 check-ups and 2 washouts were carried out to evaluate the DMFT score, dental plaque weight, dental plaque index, and gingival index. ResultsIn part A, up to 91.8% of the subjects in the experimental group were satisfied with the use of the P-113-containing oral spray. In part B, based on our PacBio SMRT sequencing platform and DADA2 analysis, the numbers of Streptococcus and Porphyromonas in the experimental group were lower than those in the control group. In addition, decreased dental plaque weight, dental plaque index, and gingival index were all observed in the experimental group. ConclusionThe P-113-containing oral spray has the potential to reduce the dental caries and periodontal disease-related bacteria and to control the dental plaque formation.