Gum Health Research Articles

Serum vitamin D concentration is inversely associated with matrix metalloproteinase‐9 level in periodontal diseases

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of this study was to investigate the potential association between vitamin D deficiency and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) across various periodontal health and disease statuses.MethodsA total of 200 volunteers were divided into two groups according to serum vitamin D concentration (25(OH)D < 10 ng/mL and 25(OH)D ≥ 10 ng/mL). Periodontal health status was determined based on a full‐mouth periodontal examination and radiographic evaluation. Participants in both groups were categorized according to periodontal diagnoses, encompassing periodontal health, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Following sampling, the MMP‐9 levels in GCF were determined by the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.ResultsThe GCF MMP‐9 levels were found to be higher in individuals with serum 25(OH)D < 10 ng/mL, in both the healthy and gingivitis and periodontitis groups, compared to those with 25(OH)D ≥ 10 ng/mL. Nevertheless, a statistically significant distinction was observed exclusively within the gingivitis and periodontitis groups. Correlation analysis and robust regression analyses provided additional evidence supporting the predictive role of periodontal disease status and vitamin D concentration in local MMP‐9 levels. These associations remained significant after adjusting for age and sex in robust regression analysis (p = 0.002). Furthermore, the inclusion of periodontal clinical parameters in the regression analysis revealed notable associations of clinical attachment loss with local MMP‐9 levels, along with periodontal disease status and serum vitamin D concentration (p < 0.001).ConclusionThe findings of our study suggest a potential mechanistic relationship between serum vitamin D levels and periodontitis.PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARYVitamin D deficiency is a widespread issue globally due to urban living, less outdoor time, seasonal changes, aging, and sunscreen use, leading to inadequate sun exposure. Low vitamin D levels are linked to several health problems, including hypertension, diabetes, heart diseases, and periodontal diseases, which affect the gums and bones around teeth and can cause tooth loss if untreated. Although the link between vitamin D and periodontal disease is unclear, it may involve the enzyme matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9). Our study examined 200 people, dividing them into two groups based on vitamin D levels. We assessed their gum health and measured MMP‐9 levels in their gingival crevicular fluid, a liquid that seeps out from the tiny space between gums and teeth. We found that people with lower vitamin D levels had higher MMP‐9 levels, especially those with gum disease. Our analysis showed that both vitamin D levels and gum health significantly impact MMP‐9 levels, with gum health being the more influential factor. Maintaining good gum health and adequate vitamin D levels is crucial for managing MMP‐9, an enzyme critical for tissue remodeling during healing and inflammation. However, excessive MMP may rapidly destroy periodontal tissues.

Intensive Oral Hygiene Interventions during Therapy of Acute Leukemia May Result in Detrimental Outcomes: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Objectives There are no standard guidelines on oro-dental care during induction therapy of acute leukemia (AL). This study aimed to assess the effect of intensive oral hygiene practice on oral mucositis, infection, and disease outcomes compared to standard clinical practice. Materials and Methods Newly diagnosed patients with AL were randomized to receive either standard oral hygiene protocol (group A, n = 92) or comprehensive oral hygiene protocol (group B, n = 91). In group A, the oral hygiene indexes were measured by the dentist at baseline and at the end of treatment. In group B, weekly monitoring of oral hygiene indexes by the dentist and interventions in the form of oral cavity inspection, probing for gum health, and use of a soft toothbrush and education on oral hygiene practices were carried out. Results The frequency of mucositis was higher in group B (60%) than in group A (40%; p = 0.09). There was no difference in the median Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S; 0.5 vs. 0.6) and Silness and Loe plaque index (0.4 vs. 0.25) between the groups. The local (11 vs. 1%; p = 0.005) and systemic infection rate (82.2 vs. 65.2%; p = 0.009) were higher in group B than in group A. Conclusion This study failed to show the superiority of a comprehensive oral hygiene protocol compared to standard protocol in reducing oral mucositis in patients receiving induction therapy for AL. We hypothesize that frequent intervention in the oral cavity may lead to the dissemination of infection.

The Effect of Flossing Techniques on Gum Health and Caries Prevention

Gum health and caries prevention are important aspects in maintaining overall oral health. Flossing technique or the use of dental floss is known as one of the effective methods for cleaning areas between teeth that are not reached by a toothbrush. This study aims to analyze the effect of flossing technique on gum health and caries prevention. This study used an experimental method involving 100 respondents who were divided into two groups, namely the group that routinely flossed and the control group that only relied on a toothbrush. Data were collected through gum health examinations using the gingival index and caries detection through clinical examinations for 3 months. The results showed that the group that routinely flossed experienced a significant decrease in the level of gum inflammation compared to the control group. In addition, the flossing technique was also proven effective in reducing plaque formation between teeth, which is the main factor causing caries. In conclusion, the flossing technique has a positive effect on gum health and can play an important role in caries prevention. Therefore, the use of flossing is recommended as part of an oral hygiene routine to support optimal dental and gum health.

Evaluation of the Effect of Socioeconomic Status on Oral Hygiene Habits

Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of socioeconomic status on oral hygiene habits. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was conducted on 709 adult individuals (330 females, 379 males) who applied for routine examinations at Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University Faculty of Dentistry. Evaluation was performed on participants' sociodemographic characteristics, socioeconomic statuses, and oral hygiene habits. Questions directed at the participants encompassed oral hygiene habits, frequency of dental examination, gum health, prevalence of restorations and prostheses, as well as educational level, occupation, and monthly income. The 'Modified Kuppuswamy Socioeconomic Status Scale' was used for assessing participants' socioeconomic status. Data from the study were analyzed using the Pearson Chi-square test (p=0.05). Results: Statistically significant differences were observed when evaluating tooth brushing habits among socioeconomic groups (p

Effectiveness of Chlorhexidine and Aloe Vera Mouthwash in Patients With Periodontal Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Aloe vera has gained significant attention in clinical research, and promoting natural substances is a prevailing trend in dentistry. This study compares the effectiveness of aloe vera mouthwash and 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash in reducing plaque accumulation and gingivitis. A single-masked trial included 270 volunteers who were systemically healthy and aged between 18 and 45 years. The participants were randomly assigned to three groups: Group A (the test group) received aloe vera mouth rinse, Group B (the positive control group) received a placebo (distilled water), and Group C (the negative control group) received 0.2% chlorhexidine. Clinical indicators, which include the plaque index (PI) by Sillness and Loe in 1964 and the gingival index (GI) by Loe and Sillness in 1963, were evaluated at baseline, day 15, and day 30 for all three groups. Participants were directed to rinse their mouths with the specified mouthwash twice daily for 30 days. Significant reductions in the GI and PI were observed in both aloe vera and chlorhexidine mouthwashes, with a statistical significance of p<0.001. The placebo mouthwash also showed reductions in both the GI and PI, with a significance level of p<0.001. Post hoc analysis revealed no significant differences between the aloe vera and chlorhexidine groups for the GI and PI, with p-values of 0.6 and 0.8, respectively. Aloe vera has proven equally effective as chlorhexidine in reducing plaque and gingivitis. This makes it a viable alternative for treating and preventing gingivitis, appealing to those preferring natural, holistic oral care. Incorporating aloe vera mouthwash into daily routines offers an effective, natural solution for maintaining gum health.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Periodontal Diseases Among First-Year Undergraduates of Different Faculties of Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth University.

Introduction Periodontal diseases, encompassing gingivitis and periodontitis, are prevalent and complex conditions with significant implications for overall health, particularly in India. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding periodontal diseases among first-year undergraduate students across various faculties at Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University, Karad. Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 200 students from the medical, dental, physiotherapy, pharmacy, and nursing faculties. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-squared test were utilized for data analysis. Results They revealed suboptimal oral hygiene practices among participants, with only 30% reporting twice-daily tooth cleaning. Additionally, less than half of the participants used soft toothbrushes and fluoridated toothpaste. Notably, 40% had never visited a dentist. While 86% recognized the correlation between gum and systemic health, significant proportions had experienced symptoms of gum disease. Dental first-year undergraduate students have a better understanding, attitude, and practices toward periodontal diseases, while nursing first-year undergraduate students displayed the lowest KAP scores compared to other faculties. Conclusion The first-year dental students demonstrated a better understanding, attitude, and behavior towards periodontal diseases compared to students in other faculties. Our study emphasizes the necessity of incorporating oral and periodontal health education into both healthcare professional curricula and those of higher secondary school students. Such educational programs will empower individuals to enhance their oral and systemic health. Moreover, equipping medical and paramedical practitioners with proper knowledge of periodontal health will ultimately lead to improved oral health outcomes for the general population.

Comparative Analysis of Dental Diseases in Domestic Cats Fed Different Diets in Canada

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the comparative analysis of dental diseases in domestic cats fed different diets. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: In studying domestic cats on different diets, it's clear that those eating dry kibble or dental-specific foods tend to have better dental health than those on wet diets. Dry food's abrasive texture helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, whereas wet diets provide less mechanical cleaning, leading to higher risks of dental diseases like periodontal issues and gingivitis. Dental-specific diets with added oral health benefits play a key role in maintaining gum health and reducing plaque. Veterinary advice stresses the importance of these diets along with regular dental care for overall feline health and wellbeing. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social learning theory, health belief model &amp; biological theory of aging may be used to anchor future studies on comparative analysis of dental diseases in domestic cats fed different diets. Veterinarians and pet owners should be informed about the significant role of diet in maintaining feline dental health. Policy initiatives could advocate for clearer labeling and educational campaigns regarding the dental health benefits of specific cat diets.

Antioxidants: Their role in oral health- A short review

Antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining good oral health by preventing and treating a variety of oral diseases. Periodontal disease, oral cancer, and tooth decay are all conditions that can be prevented or treated with the help of antioxidants. Antioxidants help neutralize the free radicals that cause cellular damage and inflammation, which can contribute to the development of these diseases. Antioxidants reduces inflammation in the gums and improve overall gum health, protect against the harmful effects of carcinogens that can cause oral cancer, and prevent tooth decay by neutralizing the acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. Some common sources of antioxidants include fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, which are rich in vitamins C and E, as well as other beneficial compounds such as carotenoids and flavonoids. By including antioxidant-rich foods in our diets and practicing good oral hygiene, we can help protect our teeth and gums from damage and maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.

The effectiveness of scaling therapy on periodontal indexes in adolescents with fixed orthodontic appliances: a prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT Background Although fixed orthodontic therapy offers numerous advantages, inadequate adherence to specific guidelines can lead to negative consequences, primarily affecting the gums. To enhance periodontal health, several surgical and non-surgical approaches, including scaling, have been employed.The purpose of this clinical study was to evaluate the adjunctive role of scaling therapy on (the improvement of gum health parameters among patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment(FOT) during the period of 6 months. Methods In this interventional study,78 patients were randomly assigned to either case or control groups. Oral hygiene techniques were taught to both groups. Periodic scaling was done were performed at three times (1,3 and 6 months) after the starting of orthodontic treatment in the intervention group. Periodontal indices were measured and compared at baseline and all follow-up times between groups. The data were analysed with the repeated measure test at the significant level of 0.05 in the SPSS software (ver.22). Findings This study was conducted on 78 patients with a mean age of 21 ± 9 years old, including 37 women and 41 men that assigned to two equal groups of 39. The results of repeated measured analysis showed that the mean of GI and BOP indices increased significantly during the follow-up period of the study in the control group, but a non-significant decrease was obtained in the intervention group. But, the average of Pl.I index decreased significantly during the follow-up period in the intervention group, compared to the control group. Conclusions Scaling as an adjunct therapy helps to improve clinical periodontal parameters in patients undergoing FOT.

Efficacy of scaling therapy on gum health in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances

Efficacy of scaling therapy on gum health in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances

Periodontal Health and Its Association with Age and Trimester in Pregnant Women Visiting Hospitals of Prime Foundation

Immune system and trimester-specific hormonal changes that affect the mother and baby during pregnancy raise the hazards to dental health. Objective: To use the Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN) Index to evaluate expectant mothers' periodontal health and its association with age and trimester. Methods: The research used a descriptive cross-sectional survey in a number of healthcare settings, including outpatient departments for gynecology and dentistry at many hospitals were conducted from January 2022 to December 2022. 384 pregnant patients were evaluated utilizing a specially created questionnaire and the CPITN Index by non-probability sequential sampling. IBM-SPSS Statistics 23.0 was used for statistical analysis, whereby associations between age, trimester, and CPITN scores (p-value &lt; 0.05) were investigated using chi-square tests. Results: The groups with the largest representation in the third trimester (68.8%) and 18–22 (33.6%) were found to be the majority in the age distribution. The majority (59.9%) had a CPITN score of 0, age and trimester has significant association with CPITN scores (p-value&lt;0.05). Conclusions: The study among pregnant women visiting hospitals of Prime Foundation highlights significant associations between periodontal health and trimester, with younger age groups and the third trimester predominantly represented. Most participants exhibited normal gum health, while notable proportions showed calculus and pocket depth issues, underscoring the relevance of these factors in periodontal health during pregnancy.

Efficacy of scaling therapy on gum health in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances

Efficacy of scaling therapy on gum health in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances

Association of Dental Caries, Periodontal, and Nutritional Status with Body Mass Index among Incarcerated Women in Central Jail, Karachi, Pakistan.

Objective: To determine the association body mass index and the status of dental decay and gum health in women serving prison sentences. Methods: A cross-sectional investigation took place at the Central Jail for Women, Pakistan, spanning from January 2021 to February 2022. The study included all incarcerated women and those awaiting trial aged between 18 and 65 years, while individuals who declined participation were excluded. Con- venience sampling was employed, and each participant underwent examinations for dental caries and periodontal status. Sample size was calculated by considering the total number of women in prison to be 205, keeping the margin of error as 5%, and a confidence level of 95%, a sample size of 134 was calculated. Oral health was measured through DMFT index. Body mass indexes were re- corded by measuring the height and weight of the participants. Furthermore, nutritional habits includ- ing height, weight, source of food and frequency of food were also documented. Oral health conditions were evaluated in 131 women currently serving prison sentences. Results: About 23.7 % (n=31) were overweight and 6.1% were obese. Total 71.7% (n=94) of women had at least one decayed tooth, 63 (48.1%) had at least one missing tooth, and 7 (5.3%) had at least one filled tooth. The logistic regression analysis indicated a significant association between being overweight and the DMFT score, with an Exponentiation of B of 1.19 and a 95% confidence interval ranging from 1.03 to 1.38. The associated p-value was 0.021. Conclusion: It was found that high BMI was significantly associated with higher DMFT score. The re- sults of this study drives the attention of clinicians and researchers towards the unidentified health needs of incarcerated women. Among other medical conditions, sensitization to oral hygiene and oral health must also be prioritized. Further efforts should be directed towards making oral health acces- sible to the incarcerated population.

Periodontal Health Knowledge and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Caribbean Adults.

To identify the relationship between periodontal health knowledge and oral health-related quality of life among Caribbean adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a representative sample from 3 Caribbean cities (weighted N = 1805). Participants completed a questionnaire on oral health knowledge, hygiene habits, and other practices, as well as the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) questionnaire. The associations between knowledge and habits and OHIP-14 score and its tertiles were evaluated using negative binomial and multinomial logistic regression models, respectively, adjusting for confounders. Odds ratios and regression coefficients were reported. Participants reporting none, little, and adequate knowledge about gum health had higher odds of being in the worst tertile for OHRQoL, compared to those reporting "good knowledge" (ORnone vs good = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.59-3.54; ORlittle vs good = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.19-2.78; ORadequate vs good = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.11-2.57). Participants reporting toothbrushing ≥ twice/day were less likely to be in the worst tertile for OHRQoL, compared to those brushing less often (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.48-0.92). Self-reported gum bleeding was associated with double the odds of being in the worse tertile (OR = 2.03, 95% CI: 1.60-2.58). According to the findings of this study, periodontal health knowledge is associated with reduced OHRQoL in Caribbean Adults. In addition, the frequency of brushing and the self-reported gum bleeding was related to a worse quality of life (QoL) level.

A STEPwise Approach for Oral Hygiene Behavior of Schoolchildren in Romania.

This research analyzes the dental hygiene habits of schoolchildren from parents' perspectives, using the STEPS approach recommended by the World Health Organization. The key points of oral health care in children include the role of the family in encouraging and maintaining proper oral hygiene practices. This study aimed to assess the oral hygiene practices of schoolchildren with on-site dentists in Romania. Additionally, it sought to establish correlations between these behaviors and the educational levels of the adults with whom they live with. The participants were selected from the zero grade to the eighth grade, totaling 3843students. Statistical analysis involved the application of Fisher's Exact Test and Z-tests with Bonferroni correction. Multinominal and binominal logistic regression models were employed to predict the impact of parents' education on children's oral health status and behavior. The oral health status of children evaluated by parents as poor was more frequent in children whose parents had a primary or gymnasium education (p < 0.001). Female adults with a university education evaluated the gum health of their children as very good to a much greater extent (41.7%, p < 0.001). Regarding the use of auxiliary means, the majority of parents with a university education mentioned that their children use dental floss (26.4% females/27.4% males) (p < 0.001), compared to those with primary education, where the percentage was only (1.2% males/3.5% females) (p < 0.001). The results of this study highlight that the education level of the adults with whom the children live with influences the perception of the teeth and gums health status, the frequency of oral hygiene, the use of fluoride toothpaste, and auxiliary brushing aids.

Antibacterial and clinical effectiveness of a mouthwash with a novel active system of amine + zinc lactate + fluoride: a randomized controlled trial

ObjectivesTo support the daily oral hygiene of patients experiencing gum inflammation, a new mouthwash was developed containing an amine + zinc lactate + fluoride system. In vitro and clinical efficacy was assessed using traditional methods as well as using novel site-specific and subject-specific analyses of the clinical data.Materials and methodsThis mouthwash was evaluated in a 12-h biofilm regrowth assay against a negative control mouthwash and in a 6-month plaque and gingivitis clinical study as compared to a negative control mouthwash. Analyses of healthy versus inflamed sites, visible plaque versus non-visible plaque sites, as well as subject-level evaluations bring new perspectives to the overall performance of this mouthwash and its significance from a patient outcome perspective.ResultsStudies demonstrated that this new mouthwash provided long-term (12-h) antibacterial activity after single application in vitro and reduced clinically all plaque and gingivitis parameters after 3 months and 6 months of use when compared to the negative control mouthwash. Examination of site-level and subject-level data determined that this mouthwash significantly increased the number of healthy sites in the oral cavity and significantly improved the gum health of subjects in the study, as compared to the negative control mouthwash.ConclusionsIn vitro and clinical research has demonstrated the antibacterial and clinical benefits of this mouthwash containing an amine compound + zinc lactate + fluoride system.Clinical relevanceOur subject-specific and site-specific analyses provide the dental practitioner with tools that can be used to guide patients who suffer from gingivitis toward optimal product selection and use.Clinical trial registrationThe trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (reference no. NCT05821712).

Efficacy of scaling therapy on gum health in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances

Efficacy of scaling therapy on gum health in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances

Modificări gingivale în sarcină-manifestări clinice și recomandări practice

Fluctuations in female hormones have a complex infl uence on gum health. Pregnancy greatly infl uences the health of the whole body, including the gingival tissues, and correlates with a high degree of carious and gingival damage. Performing regular dental check-ups to keep plaque under control, along with maintaining personalized hygiene at home, can lessen the impact and risks of hormonal fl uctuations on the gums.

CONCEPT OF MUKHA SWASTHYA (ORAL HYGIENE) WITH AYURVEDIC PER-SPECTIVE

Background: Mukha is an Anga who is exposed to several risk factors on a regular basis, hence Mukha Swasthya (oral hygiene) is becoming more and more significant. Tobacco chewing, smoking, and other habits have increased the prevalence of oral cavity diseases. In Ayurveda, Dantdhawana, Kavala, Gandusha, and various other remedies are mentioned to maintain Mukha Swasthya. Ayurvedic classical texts prescribe Dan-tadhwana by Datuna (Chewing Sticks) in the morning and after every meal to prevent mouth ailments. Kavala comprises swishing a certain oil or herbal decoction in the mouth for a particular duration, whereas Gandusha involves retaining a larger quantity of liquid in the oral cavity for a longer period of time. Both treatments pro-mote comprehensive cleansing by eliminating dirt, pollutants, and potentially hazardous germs from the mouth and throat. Material and Method: This review paper has been taken from different Ayurvedic classical textbooks, Text-books of Swasthavritta, and various modern and Ayurvedic research papers from PubMed, Google scholar, SCI etc. Discussion: Ayurveda defines Dantdhawana vidhi as routine oral hygiene maintenance procedure in Dinachar-ya, including Kavala, Gandusha etc. Similar to this, modern practices like tooth brushing and gargling help to maintain oral hygiene to become healthy and free of diseases. These practices enhance dental health, reduce plaque formation, prevent cavities, alleviate halitosis, and promote gum health. Dantadhawana with its antimi-crobial, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-strengthening properties, may contribute to improving oral hygiene and gum health. On the other hand, in Kavala and Gandusha, the swishing action and the prolonged contact of the liquid with the oral tissues enhance the absorption of these beneficial compounds, aiding in the removal of pathogens and the restoration of oral balance. Result: A vital sign of general health, happiness, and quality of life is good oral health. Dental caries, periodon-tal disease, tooth loss, oral cancer, orodental trauma, noma, and congenital impairments including cleft lip and palate are just a few of the illnesses and problems it covers. In Charaka Samhita, Dantadhawana is mentioned as the subset of Dincharya, whereas it was referenced by Acharya Sushruta in the section on cures (Chikista Sthana) and Ashtanga Hridaya primarily mentioned its preventive aspects. In various studies, it is found that Dantadhawana makes natural whitening of teeth, improves oral hygiene, Strengthen teeth and gum. Whereas Kavala and Gandusha help in reduction of harmful bacteria, makes breathe fresh, enhances oral health, nourish oral tissues.

Help patients improve their gum health at home.

Help patients improve their gum health at home.