DMFT Scores Research Articles

Exploring the Link Between Oral Health Factors and Hearing Impairments in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Hearing-impaired children may face challenges in communication, social interaction, academic performance, and emotional well-being, which can have a notable impact on their overall quality of life. Beyond these challenges, oral health can also be significantly impacted. The relationship between hearing impairment and dental diseases is an intriguing and interconnected aspect of overall well-being that merits attention and exploration. This study aimed to assess the relationship between various oral health factors and hearing impairments. Methodology This cross-sectional study involved 90 hearing-impaired children aged 6-12 years. To evaluate the children's hearing abilities, diagnostic tools such as pure-tone audiometry were employed. To measure dental health, the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) and decayed, missing, and filled primary teeth (dmft) indices, as well as plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI) were calculated. The chi‑square test was used to identify significant differences between genders. Spearman's test was used to determine the correlation between variables. Results The severity of hearing impairment varied, with 5.6% having severe hearing loss, 8.9% having profound hearing loss, and 85.6% having complete hearing loss. The mean DMFT score was 2.5 ± 1.86, with no significant difference observed between males and females. The mean dmft score was 4.2 ± 3.12, with no significant difference between genders. However, there was a difference in the PI scores between males and females. Males presented a higher PI score of 2.6 ± 0.09 compared to 1.8 ± 0.08 for females. The overall mean PI was 2.1 ± 0.80. The mean GI was 1.5 ± 0.90, and no significant difference was observed between males and females. Spearman's test identified a significant positive correlation between the severity of hearing impairment and both PI scores (p = 0.000) and GI scores (p = 0.000). Conversely, the severity of hearing impairment showed a weak positive correlation with both DMFT scores (p = 0.487) and dmft scores (p = 0.229), but these correlations were not statistically significant. Conclusions The connection between oral health and severe hearing impairment in children is significant and has potential implications. Pediatric healthcare providers, including dentists and audiologists, need to work collaboratively to monitor the oral and aural health of young patients.

Assessment of lip and finger print patterns in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and dental caries: A cross-sectional study

Abstract Background and Objectives: Globally, the prevalence of diabetes and dental caries has been soaring high in recent times. There is a constant effort in the scientific community to develop a reliable and economic early predictor which can serve the purpose of mass screening of genetically vulnerable populations. The present study attempts to evaluate the different types of lip prints and finger prints in diabetes mellitus and dental caries and to see association between the most common diseases (diabetes mellitus and dental caries) if any. Materials and Methods: Study subjects included 100 subjects (50 uncontrolled Type II diabetes mellitus patients and 50 healthy controls) in the age group of 30–80 years among the population of Lucknow. Lip prints were obtained using lipstick and cellophane paper, analysed, and classified using Suzuki and Tsuchihashi’s classification. Finger prints were obtained using inkpad, analysed, and classified using Henry’s system of classification. Results: We found loop-type fingerprints and type IV lip prints associated with diabetic patients. Non-diabetics showed loop-type fingerprints and type I lip prints. We found increased dental caries incidence (DMFT scores) in diabetics. Diabetic subjects with caries showed loop fingerprints, which reiterated our earlier findings but are not associated with type IV lip prints. Non-diabetics with caries showed arch fingerprints, but they are not associated with type I lip prints. We found that DMFT scores that we used to assess caries did not associate well with lip prints. Conclusion: The results from our study strongly suggest that dermatoglyphics can be used as a non-invasive technique to mass screen for diabetes as well as dental caries as both diseases are predominantly associated with loop-type fingerprints. Type IV lip prints could be used to screen for diabetes, but no association of lip prints was seen in patients with caries.

Evaluation of the relationship between dental anxiety and oral health status of mothers and their children

BackgroundMothers usually have the primary role in raising children and developing health-related behaviors. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between dental anxiety and oral hygiene status of mothers and children’s dental anxiety and gingival health.MethodsThe study included 305 children, aged 4–12 years, who came to the dentist for the first time and their mothers. All the demographic and oral hygiene information were collected through a questionnaire. The dental anxiety of the mothers and children was assessed using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) and Venham Picture Test (VPT), respectively. The oral examination of the mother and children was performed, and their PI, GI, and DMFT scores were recorded.ResultsWhile the correlation between MDAS and VPT was positive and strong in children aged 8–12, it was positive but weak in the 4–7 age group. A significant relationship was detected between the mother’s PI, GI, DMFT, and the child’s VPT score. According to the mothers’ dental anxiety, there were no statistically significant differences in PI, GI, and dmft values in children aged between 4 to 7. A moderately positive and statistically significant relationship between maternal dental anxiety and children’s DMFT was identified in children aged 8–12.ConclusionsChildren’s dental anxiety was significantly influenced by maternal dental anxiety, post-treatment complications experienced by the mother, and the oral health status of the mother.Trial registrationClinical Trials-ID: NCT05563532; Registration Date: 17.09.2022.

Dental Fear and Caries in 6- to 12-Year-Old Children: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

To investigate the relationship between dental fear and dental caries in children aged 6 to 12 years in a systematic review and meta-analysis. Systematic review search terms were selected according to medical subject headings (MeSH) or non-MeSH. An electronic search of studies published in English assessing the relationship between dental fear (children's fear survey schedule-dental subscale) and dental caries (DMFT or dmft index) was carried out of the Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Proquest databases up to March 2022. Of 5,759 articles retrieved initially, 16 were eligible for inclusion in the study, and 5 of these were included in the quantitative analysis. The quality of studies was evaluated based on the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Begg tests were employed to assess the publication bias. According to the meta-analysis, the results revealed no statistically significant difference in mean of DMFT score in low and high fear score groups, with a mean difference of 1.28 (95% confidence interval -0.132 to 2.693) (P = 0.076). A statistically significant difference was found in the mean dmft score for the low and high fear score groups, with a mean difference of 0.227 (95% confidence interval 0.058 to 0.395) (P = 0.008). The mean dmft was significantly higher in the high fear score group. Dental fear has a significant relationship with caries in primary teeth, but not in permanent teeth.

Association Between Age at First Birth and Long-Term Dental Caries Experience Among Women in the United States.

Background: Pregnant women are at a higher risk of caries compared to nonpregnant women, and higher parity is a risk factor for untreated caries and tooth loss. However, it is unknown whether the timing of birth is associated with dental caries experience over time. Materials and Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2011-2018. The study population included nonpregnant women 20 years of age or older, who had available data on the oral health examination and age at first birth (AFB). Dental caries experience was defined as the DMFT score (sum of the number of decayed, missing due to caries, and filled permanent teeth). The associations between AFB and DMFT scores were assessed using Poisson regression to compute incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and the associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: This study included 6,553 women (mean age 53.4 years, SD 15.7). The mean DMFT index score was 13.1 ± 7.4, with younger AFB groups generally having higher mean scores. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, time since last dental visit, and reproductive health factors, women with an AFB of <18 years (IRR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.01-1.21) or 18-20 years (IRR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.01-1.21) had significantly higher DMFT index scores compared to those with an AFB of 30-32 years. Conclusions: This study suggests that younger maternal AFB may be associated with greater dental caries experience. More rigorous studies are necessary to determine how to improve oral health outcomes during pregnancy and postpartum.

Effectiveness of risk-based caries management among Chinese preschool children: a randomized controlled single-blind trial

BackgroundEarly childhood caries (ECC) remain a serious oral health problem on a global scale. Risk-based caries management (RBCM) implemented in some parts of the world has been effective in preventing ECC. However, there is a lack of prospective research on the application of RBCM among Chinese children, and little is known about its effectiveness. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of RBCM in preventing caries among children aged 3–5 years in Wanzhou District, Chongqing Municipality, China.MethodsThree- to five-year-old children from four kindergartens in Wanzhou were randomly selected for baseline dental examination and caries risk assessment (CRA) and randomly assigned to the experimental group (EG) or the control group (CG) according to the kindergarten. The EG received caries prevention measures of different intensities based on the child’s caries risk level. The CG received full-mouth fluoride twice a year according to standard prevention, regardless of their caries risk. One year later, another dental examination and CRA were conducted, to observe changes in the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) index and caries risk, and to analyze potential factors that may affect the incidence of new caries.ResultsComplete data were collected from 291 children (EG, N = 140, 84.8%; CG, N = 181, 83.4%). A total of 25.7% of the EG and 50.3% of the CG children developed new caries, with newly added dmft scores of 0.54 ± 1.12 and 1.32 ± 1.72, respectively (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression indicated that children living in rural areas, assigned to the CG, and rated as high-risk at baseline were more likely to develop new caries (P < 0.05). The proportion of children with an increased caries risk in the EG was significantly lower than that in the CG (P < 0.05).ConclusionsRBCM effectively prevented new caries in 3- to 5-year-old Wanzhou children and reduced the proportion of children at increased risk of caries. It is an effective approach for preventing ECC.Clinical trial registrationThis trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trials Register. The registration number was ChiCTR230067551 (11/01/2023).

Caries Incidence and Its Associated Factors in Hong Kong Kindergarten Children

ObjectiveThe study aimed to investigate caries incidence and its associate factors among kindergarten children in Hong Kong. MethodThis 30-month prospective study recruited 3- to 4-year-old children when they started their kindergarten study. A self-administered parental questionnaire survey was used to collect the children's social demographic information and their oral health-related habits. Child's caries experience was recorded using the decayed, missing, and filled tooth (dmft) index and the visible plaque index (VPI) was used to measure their oral hygiene status. A final examination was performed after 30 months when they were in the final year of kindergarten. Data were analysed using the zero-inflated negative binomial (ZINB) regression model. ResultsThis study examined 660 children at baseline and 501 children at the final examination (dropout 24%). At baseline, the caries prevalence among 501 children was 23%, with mean (SD) dmft scores of 0.7 (1.8). At the final examination, caries prevalence increased to 41%, with mean (SD) dmft scores of 1.6 (2.8). The 30-month incidence rate was 34%, and the mean (SD) number of new carious teeth developed was 0.9 (1.7). Lower first molars exhibited the highest caries increment rate (11%), followed by upper second molars (9%) and upper central incisors (9%). ZINB regression analysis revealed associations among caries incidence and family income, baseline dmft, and baseline VPI (P < .05). ConclusionsOne third of Hong Kong kindergarten children developed new caries. Low family income, prior caries experience and poor oral hygiene were the significant factors associated with their caries incidence. Clinical RelevanceMany children developed new caries during their kindergarten years, with their caries experience more than doubling. Preventive measures, including oral health education and reinforcing oral hygiene practice in kindergarten, are essential to reduce their caries incidence, particularly for children with low family income, caries experience and poor oral hygiene.

Oral health status of Egyptian children with lysosomal storage diseases: An evaluation of dental indices, salivary cytokines level, and bacterial bioburden.

Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs), a group of inborn errors of metabolism, include various subtypes, for example, mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) and Gaucher disease (GD). Besides the physical/mental disabilities, they suffer from several oral deteriorations. To evaluate the oral health status of Egyptian children with LSD. Thirty LSD children and thirty non-LSD children were enrolled for this study according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Dental indices were used to assess caries prevalence and periodontal status. Saliva samples were collected from all enrolled children to estimate interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and protein levels as well as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli colony counts. Children with MPS and GD showed non-significant differences in decayed, missing, or filled teeth (DMFT) scores (p = .115). Scores of dmft showed a significant increase in MPS, but not in GD children (p = .020, p = .127). Children with LSD showed significantly increased Modified Gingival Index (MGI), Plaque Index (PI), Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-s) scores (p < .001) and salivary IL-6 and TNF-α (p = .007, p = .001, p < .0001, p = .002, respectively) and salivary total proteins (p = .001) levels. Unexpectedly, non-significant differences were observed in salivary Streptococcus mutans or Lactobacilli counts in children with MPS and GD (p = .058, p = .420, p = .502, p = .053, respectively). To our knowledge, this is the first article that evaluates Egyptian children with LSD. We demonstrated high caries prevalence in primary teeth, not permanent teeth, in children with MPS and poor gingival/hygiene status in children with MPS and GD, which triggered a state of inflammation. The daily supplement intake prevented oral bacterial growth. The most probable cause of oral alterations is decreased salivary flow rate, as deduced from a significantly increased salivary protein.

Retrospective Study Regarding the Correlation between Dental Anxiety and Color Preferences in Children with Severe Early Childhood Caries.

Severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) is recognized as a significant chronic disease which affects the quality of life starting at very young ages and has a very rapid evolution towards pulp complication and loss of dental tissue. Children with a high caries index DMFT are more likely to develop high levels of dental anxiety, which will influence the degree of cooperation during dental procedures. Emotions play an important role in the psychosomatic development of children, and all the factors that contribute to the modeling of these emotional states must be known and taken into consideration. The aim of this study was to assess the association between dental anxiety in children with S-ECC and the color preferences for the components of the dental environment to reduce the levels of dental anxiety during medical visits. For this study, 91 children between 3 and 6 years of age diagnosed with S-ECC were selected from the Pediatric Dentistry Department of UMFST from Targu Mures and from a private dental office. The level of dental anxiety was determined by measuring the pulse rate, and a questionnaire was completed to establish the color preferences for the dental office environment and the dentist's attire. For this purpose, six different colors and their variants with three shades less intensity were chosen by using RGB (Red, Green, and Blue) identification codes for each color. The results showed that there was a statistically significant difference between the age of the subjects and dental anxiety levels, but there was no significant correlation between the DMFT score and dental anxiety. Also, the results showed that there was no significant difference between girls and boys when choosing the colors preferred by them for the dental office, but when comparing the colors that represented happiness, significant statistical difference was found between the girls' and boys' groups (p = 0.0039). For all the subjects, the colors associated with happiness were light yellow and pink, while the colors associated with anxiety were red and dark blue. The data obtained showed that dental anxiety is strongly influenced by age, and an important role in inducing positive emotions is played by the dental environment if dressed in specific colors in order to reduce dental anxiety and create familiar conditions, especially for young children with S-ECC.

Effect of Periodontal Scaling in Patients Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment on General Oral and Periodontal Health

Background: Orthodontic treatments, while improving dental alignment and facial aesthetics, significantly complicate oral hygiene management due to the fixed nature of orthodontic appliances. This study investigates the potential benefits of periodontal scaling in mitigating the adverse effects on oral and periodontal health among orthodontic patients. Objective: To evaluate the impact of periodontal scaling on the general oral and periodontal health of patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 50 patients from the College of Dentistry, Sharif Medical and Dental College, Lahore. Conducted from April 2023 to April 2024, the study utilized a questionnaire to collect demographic data and information about the patients’ last dental scaling. The Community Periodontal Index for Treatment Needs (CPITN) and the Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth Index (DMFT) assessed the periodontal and general oral health. Results: The correlations between the time since the last scaling and general oral health (DMFT score: p=0.950) and periodontal health (CPITN: p=0.635) were not statistically significant. Higher DMFT scores were noted in patients who last had scaling over a year ago (30%), followed by those never scaled (26%). Pocket depths of 6mm were solely observed in unscaled patients. Conclusion: The incidence of decayed, missing, and filled teeth, as well as deeper pocket depths, were notably higher in orthodontic patients who had not received scaling in over a year or never at all, emphasizing the necessity of regular periodontal care.

DENTAL CARIES AND TREATMENT NEEDS AMONG CHILDREN WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES IN DHAMAR CITY, YEMEN: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Background and objective: A child with disability is a child who, for any reason, has a problem with learning, communication, or using their physical, and social activities. There are a lot of people with different disabilities around world which forms an important section of the community. The Objective of this study was to compare the prevalence of dental caries and treatment needs among children with and without physical disabilities in Dhamar City, Yemen. Study design: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among physical disability children (n=101) and control children (n=101), their age ranged from 6 to 12 years old in Dhamar City, Yemen. WHO Oral Health Assessment Form for children, 2013 was used for assessment of dental caries and treatment needs. Results: The findings of this study indicate a statistically significant difference in dt (decayed teeth) between children with physical disabilities and the control group (p=0.013). Among children with physical disabilities, 55.4% exhibited decay in their primary teeth, whereas the prevalence was 72.3% among the control children. The highest mean dmft scores were observed in the 6-7 years age group. Additionally, a significant difference in dmft values was found in the control children (p=0.001). It is essential to highlight that only 14.4% of the children evaluated in this study had no treatment needs identified. Conclusions: In conclusion, the prevalence of dental caries was lower among physical disability children than control. Control children have a significantly higher dental caries in primary teeth than physical disability children. Additionally, both groups exhibit a considerable proportion of unmet treatment needs. Peer Review History: Received 5 February 2024; Revised 13 March 2024; Accepted 24 April; Available online 15 May 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Marwa A. A. Fayed, University of Sadat City, Egypt, maafayed@gmail.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10 Reviewers: Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, shmahe@yemen.net.ye

Oral health status of institutionalized older adults receiving domiciliary dental care: A cross-sectional retrospective study.

This study aimed to evaluate the oral health of care-dependent institutionalized older adults receiving domiciliary dental care. Dental health records of institutionalized adults receiving regular domiciliary dental care were examined (observation period: 5 years). Relevant demographic and oral health information were extracted. Statistical analyses included descriptive and non-parametric tests (α=.05). Records of 398 nursing home residents (mean-age: 84.9±6.4 years) were included. Average time spent by the residents in the institution was 2.8±1.5 years. The mean number of teeth present and the overall DMF-T score was 14.7±9.1 and 27.4±6.2, respectively. The DMF-T score increased until the 3-year recall, with a significant increase in the number of decayed teeth (2-year: p=.013; 3-year: p=.010). An improvement in the residents' periodontal health was seen during the observation period but was not statistically significant. The findings of this cross-sectional study confirmed that regular domiciliary dental care provision to institutionalized older adults helps maintain gingival and periodontal health. However, the incidence of dental caries might still be a problem that needs to be addressed with effective measures that improve the daily oral care provision to these older adults.

Quantitative Analysis of Bifidobacterium and Scardovia wiggsiae in Dental Plaque from Children in Northern Thailand and Their Association with Caries Factors

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study were to measurably detect Bifidobacterium and Scardovia wiggsiae in plaque from severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) and caries-free children and to analyze the interrelation between these bacteria and clinical caries presentation and caries-related factors assessed by questionnaire. Materials and Methods One-hundred forty supra gingiva plaque samples from children aged between 2 and 5 years were used in this study. There were 70 children in each group. Recorded plaque index, modified gingival index, and decay, missing, and filled tooth (dmft) scores. Parents' attitudes, child's oral hygiene, and diet were assessed by questionnaire. DNA was extracted from plaque samples and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction using fluorescent dye was performed. Results Plaque (p &lt; 0.001) and modified gingival indices (p &lt; 0.001) in the S-ECC group were higher than in the caries-free group. Prevalence of Bifidobacterium (p = 0.004) and S. wiggsiae (p &lt; 0.001) in the S-ECC group was higher than in the caries-free group. The numbers of total bacteria (p = 0.003), Bifidobacterium (p &lt; 0.001), and proportion of Bifidobacterium to total bacteria (p &lt; 0.001) were higher in the S-ECC group. Detections of both bacteria, Bifidobacterium + S. wiggsiae (p &lt; 0.001), were higher in the S-ECC group than in the caries-free group. In the S-ECC group, dmft scores (p &lt; 0.001; p = 0.024) and the modified gingiva index (p = 0.004; p = 0.002) were higher in the presence of Bifidobacterium and S. wiggsiae, respectively. In the S-ECC group, the dmft scores (p = 0.005) and modified gingiva index (p = 0.004) were higher in the presence of both Bifidobacterium + S. wiggsiae. There were positive correlations between the Bifidobacterium level (p = 0.003), the proportion of Bifidobacterium to total bacteria (p = 0.017), and S-ECC. The level of Bifidobacterium (p &lt; 0.001) and ratio of Bifidobacterium to total bacteria (p &lt; 0.001) were correlated with the dmft score and modified gingival index in the S-ECC group. From the questionnaire, S-ECC were associated with major caregiver (p = 0.002), parent education levels (p = 0.02), prolonged bottle-feeding (&gt;18 months) (p = 0.015), night-time feeding (p &lt; 0.001), eating cariogenic snacks (p = 0.019), and frequency of dental visits (p = 0.003). Conclusions Levels of total bacteria, Bifidobacterium, S. wiggsiae and plaque, and the modified gingival indices were higher in the S-ECC group. Factors associated with S-ECC included the major caregiver, parent education levels, feeding patterns, cariogenic snacks consumption, and frequency of dental visits.

Comparison of dmft and behavior rating scores between children with systemic disease and healthy children at the first dental visit

PurposeTo evaluate and compare oral health and behavior scores at the first dental visit and dental treatment need using general anesthesia/sedation (GA/S) of children with systemic diseases (SD) and healthy children.MethodsData were obtained from healthy children (n = 87) and children with SD (n = 79), aged 4 to 6 years, presenting to a hospital dental clinic for a first dental examination. The total number of decayed, missing and filled teeth (dmft), dental behavior score using Frankl Scale, and dental treatment need using GA/S were recorded. Chi-square / Fisher’s exact test and Mann–Whitney U tests were used for statistical analyses.ResultsThe patients with SD were diagnosed with cardiac disease (61%), renal disease (9%), and pediatric cancers (30%). The median dmft values of the SD group (3.00) were significantly lower than those of healthy children (5.00) (p = 0.02) and healthy children exhibited significantly more positive behavior (90.8%) than children with SD (73.4%) (p = 0.002). The number of patients needing GA/S for dental treatment did not differ significantly between the two groups (p = 0.185). There was no relationship between dental treatment need with GA/S and dental behavior scores of the patients (p = 0.05). A statistically significant relationship was found between the patients’ dmft scores and the need for dental treatment using GA/S; and the cut-off value was found to be dmft > 4 for the overall comparisons.ConclusionThe presence of chronic disease in children appeared to affect the cooperation negatively at the first dental visit compared to healthy controls, however, it did not affect the oral health negatively. Having a negative behavior score or SD did not necessitate the use of GA/S for dental treatment.

Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Epidemiology of Early Childhood Caries in Nigeria

Abstract Background: Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a prevalent dental condition among children under six years, characterized by tooth decay linked to microbial interaction with sugary substances. ECC poses significant health risks, including pain, infections, and tooth loss, impacting oral health and overall well-being. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to comprehensively evaluate the epidemiology of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) in Nigeria. The study seeks to consolidate existing literature, assess study quality, and analyze data on ECC prevalence, distribution, and severity across different regions of Nigeria. Methods: Following Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines, databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus, and African Journals Online were systematically searched. Inclusion criteria encompass cross-sectional and cohort studies reporting ECC prevalence in healthy Nigerian children under six. Data extraction will utilize standardized protocols, focusing on WHO criteria such as dmft scores and caries severity. Quality assessment will be conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Prevalence Studies. Results: Initial searches identified a scarcity of comprehensive studies, predominantly from southern Nigeria, highlighting the absence of national-level data on ECC in Nigeria. Data synthesis will explore geographic and demographic factors influencing ECC prevalence and severity, aiming to provide a holistic understanding of the disease burden. Conclusion: This review addresses the critical gap in ECC epidemiology within Nigeria, aiming to inform targeted interventions and policy decisions. By synthesizing available data, the study aims to contribute towards improving oral health outcomes among Nigerian children.

Do Parents Dental Neglect and Anxiety Affect Their Children s Dental Neglect and Anxiety

Aim: Dental neglect is an obstacle to obtaining the necessary dental care in protecting and maintaining basic oral health. Dental anxiety can cause difficulties in behavior management, maintenance of dental treatments, and poor oral hygiene. In this study, it was aimed to examine the relationship between dental neglect and anxiety levels of both parents and their children. Material and Methods: 220 people including 110 parents and 110 children were included in the study. The Dental Neglect Scale (DNS), Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were used for parents. In addition, the Dental Neglect Scale (DNS), the Faces version of the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale (MCDASf), and the Wong Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale (WBFS) were applied to children. The statistical analysis was performed using Spearman Correlation test and Mann Whitney-U test. Results: In the study, a positive correlation was found between parent’s and children's neglect scores (r=0.261; p=0.006). Likewise, a positive correlation was observed between the DMFT and anxiety scores of the children (r=0.237; p= 0.013). In addition, it was observed that there was a statistical correlation between the level of pain felt at the last dental treatment and anxiety in children (r=0.316; p=0.001). Conclusion: It was observed that the dental neglect of the children of parents who neglected their own oral health increased. It is thought that informing parents about the importance of oral health and the consequences of dental neglect will have positive effects on their children's oral health.

Dental caries prevalence in relation to the cardiovascular diseases: cross-sectional findings from the Iranian kurdish population.

Oral and dental health (ODH) is a significant public health concern globally, affecting billions of people. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the prevalence of dental caries using the DMFT index and investigate its relationship with cardiovascular diseases in the Iranian Kurdish population. A total of 3,996 individuals aged 35-70 years were included from the Dehgolan prospective cohort study (DehPCS). Clinical examinations were performed to assess decayed (DT), missing (MT) and filled (FT) teeth (DMFT index). Data on demographics, socioeconomic status, medical history, oral hygiene practices were also collected. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) history was self-reported via questionnaires assessing heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Logistic regression was used to assess associations between oral health indicators and self-reported CVD, adjusting for potential confounders. The mean DMFT score was 18.18 ± 19, indicating a high oral disease burden. Specifically, 60.04% had DT, 37.82% had more than 16 MT, and 38.83% had FT. Only 13.21% reported flossing regularly and 43.17% brushed less than daily, showing suboptimal oral hygiene. The overall CVD prevalence was 9.21%. Individuals with high DMFT (≥ 14) scores had approximately two times higher CVD prevalence than those with low DMFT. DMFT decreased by 10.23% with increase in education level, and by 5.87% as economic status increased In adjusted analyses, high DMFT scores (OR = 1.5, 95%CI: 1.2-1.9) and MT (OR = 1.5, 95%CI: 1.1-2.1) were associated with 50-150% increased odds of CVD, though associations weakened after adjusting for age. Among men, DMFT remained a significant predictor for CVD after age adjustment, with an odds ratio of 2.37 (95% CI: 1.22-4.60). This population had substantial oral disease and poor oral hygiene. Higher DMFT scores and MT positively correlated with increased CVD prevalence. Promoting preventive oral care and health education could help reduce dental issues and potentially lower CVD risk. Further research is needed to clarify biological mechanisms linking oral and systemic health.

Effect of Chewing Gums with Different Contents on Salivary Flow Rate, pH and Ion Exchange

Objective: Aim of this study is to examine the effects of chewing gums with different contents on the salivary flow rate, pH and ion exchange in healthy subjects. Material and Method: Twenty healthy individuals with DMFT scores of ≤ 4, who did not use any medication or diagnosed with any systemic disease that could change flow and characteristics of saliva were selected as study sample. The unstimulated saliva of all individuals on day one was collected in sterile test tubes. After 24 hours, saliva stimulated by chewing paraffin was collected from each individual as a control group. Then, five different chewing gums were used for 6 minutes for seven days at 24-hour intervals (Vivident Xylit, Oneo White, Trident Recaldent, Fluogum, CB12 Boost). Saliva samples were collected at 0-1, 1-3 and 3-6 minute intervals in graduated sterile test tubes. The pH of saliva collected at the end of each test period was measured with litmus paper to minimize any time-dependent pH changes. Flow rate was calculated in ml/min. Ion exchanges were evaluated according to the spectrophotometric method. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics, Version 23.0 statistical program. Statistically significance level was set as p&amp;lt;0.05. Results: Calcium concentration of the collected saliva was found to be higher in the gum group containing tricalcium phosphate than in the other groups. Calcium carbonate containing gum group showed increased salivary flow rate and lower pH when compared to other groups. Conclusion: Chewing gum containing calcium carbonate and tricalcium phosphate may have beneficial effects on the structure of saliva and beneficial effects in terms of oral and dental health. Keywords: Calcium concentration, Chewing gum, Ion Exchange, pH, Salivary flow rate

Oral health vulnerability and its associated risk factors among tribal elderly people in Bangladesh: a primary pilot initiative of national oral health survey

Background Tribal elderly is a vulnerable population due to their geographic location and lack of access to healthcare services including poor oral health. As the primary initiative for representative ethnic oral health survey for elderly, this pilot study aims to assess the oral health status of tribal elderly in Bangladesh and identify the associated risk factors. Methods This cross-sectional pilot survey was conducted among 280 tribal elderlies aged 60 years and above residing in the main tribal residing region in Bangladesh. The data was collected through cluster sampling methods using a semi-structured questionnaire and oral examination. Different statistical tools including frequency distribution, Chi-square association test and multivariable logistic regression model were performed in data analysis. Results The results showed that 25.35% of the tribal elderly had high DMFT score, indicating poor oral health. Respondents’ age, sex, marital status, occupational status, sweet eater, tobacco, and alcohol consumption were significantly associated with oral health. The major oral clinical sign and symptoms were dental carries, teeth sensitivity, loose teeth, broken teeth, calculus and staining in teeth, tongue pain and bad breath. The logistic regression analysis suggested that elderly aged 80 and above had 3.33 times more, males were 4.6 time less, tobacco user (smoked/smokeless) were 2.03 times more and alcohol consumers were 6.83 times more likely to experienced poor oral health condition than their counterparts. Conclusions Elderly individuals were found to be more likely to suffer from poor oral health condition than younger individuals, and certain lifestyle factors such as tobacco and alcohol consumption, meal frequency, and sweet consumption can further increase the risk of poor oral health condition. The findings can be a primary initiative for further investigation on the nationally representative oral health survey among ethnic elderly.

Carotid Artery Calcification Detected on Panoramic Radiography Is Significantly Related to Cerebrovascular Accident, Coronary Artery Disease, and Poor Oral Health: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study.

Panoramic radiography imaging modality is widely used by dentists for diagnosing dental and jaw conditions. It can also detect carotid artery calcification (CAC), indicative of calcified atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid arteries. This cross-sectional retrospective study at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center investigated the link between CAC identified on panoramic radiograph (PR) and cerebrovascular accident (CVA), coronary artery disease (CAD), and poor oral health. Data from 314 CAC patients collected from 2014 to 2023 included age at diagnosis, gender, and clinical histories of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, CVA, CAD, and the decay, missing, and filled permanent teeth (DMFT) index. These patients were age- and gender-matched with non-CAC patients for analysis. The findings revealed high prevalences of hypertension (86.2%), hyperlipidemia (57.6%), diabetes mellitus (30.7%), CVA (15.5%), and CAD (28.7%) amongst CAC patients and the average DMFT index was 26.6. A comparative analysis of 276 matched controls demonstrated significant differences in hypertension (85.9% vs. 57.6%), hyperlipidemia (58.3% vs. 33.7%), diabetes (32.6% vs. 22.1%), CVA history (14.9% vs. 5.1%), CAD (26.1% vs. 9.8%), and DMFT scores (26.3 vs. 23.7), all indicating strong associations between CAC and these health conditions. The adjusted analysis showed that hypertension (aOR: 3.20 [95% CI: 2.06-5.07]), hyperlipidemia (aOR: 1.70 [95% CI: 1.14-2.50]), CVA (aOR: 2.20 [95% CI: 1.13-4.30]), and CAD (aOR: 2.10 [95% CI: 1.28-3.60]) were significantly associated with CAC. Notably, only 41.7% of the patients received a medical consultation after CAC detection on PR. It is crucial for dentists to refer patients for further evaluation.