Mean Plaque Index Research Articles

Progression of Periodontal Disease in Individuals with Cleft Lip, Alveolus and Palate: 8-Year Longitudinal Study

Objective: To compare the progression of periodontal disease of sextants in individuals with cleft lip, alveolus and palate. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal, cross-section study was performed following the STROBE Statement. The sample included the study was conducted on 30 individuals, of both genders, aged 22 to 53 years, with cleft lip, alveolus and palate. The following clinical parameters were evaluated: measurement of probing depth of the sulcus or Periodontal pocket (PD), Clinical Attachment Level (CAL), Gingival Index (GI), plaque index (PI), buccal Gingival Recession (GR) in six sites of all teeth, except for the third molars. Analysis of the variation of clinical parameters of each tooth over the study period in relation to its sextant was performed by the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn test. The variation of clinical parameters during the study period and the age of individuals were correlated using the Spearman correlation test. All tests considered a significance level of 5%. Results: The following means were found: PD 2.4 mm, CAL 2.6 mm, GI 0.9, PI 1.0 and BR 0.3 mm. There was increase in the mean PD and CAL (p<0.001) and reduction of mean PI and GI (p<0.001) over time, yet the variation between sextants was not statistically significant. Conclusion: During the study period, there was progression of periodontal disease in all sextants, without difference between the upper anterior sextant, cleft area and the others, suggesting that the cleft, per se, is not a risk factor for periodontal disease. Clinical relevance: the epidemiology and progression of periodontal disease in individuals with cleft lip and palate must be understood in order to establish effective therapeutic approaches.

Association between COVID-19 stress, coping mechanisms and stress-related oral conditions among Egyptian adults: a cross-sectional study

The present study investigated the association between COVID-19 stresses and oral conditions including gingivitis, oral hygiene, oral ulcers, and dry mouth. This was a cross-sectional study that collected data from adults in community settings in Alexandria, Egypt, between October 2021, and February 2022. Gingival condition and oral hygiene were assessed using the gingival and plaque indices. Participants were asked if they experienced oral ulcers during the past week and dry mouth during the past year. COVID-19 fears and coping were assessed using the COVID Stress Scale (CSS), and the Brief Resilience Coping Scale (BRCS), respectively. Oral health behaviors were assessed using the World Health Organization questionnaire. Regression analyses were used to assess the association between the dependent variables (clinically assessed gingival and plaque indices, reported presence of oral ulcers, and dry mouth) and explanatory variables (CSS and BRCS) after adjusting for confounders (COVID-19 status, oral health behaviors, smoking, age in years, sex, and highest educational level). The response rate was 88.8% (373/420). The mean (SD) age = 39.26 (11.45) with 74.3% females and 49.3% reporting completing high school or higher education. The mean (SD) plaque and gingival indices were 1.59 (0.66) and 1.39 (0.59), respectively. Only 20.1% reported the presence of oral ulcers and 41.6% reported xerostomia. Lower plaque score was associated with higher COVID-19 contamination fears (B = − 0.03, 95% CI − 0.05, − 0.02) and higher compulsive checking and reassurance-seeking (B = − 0.02, 95% CI − 0.03, − 0.009). Lower gingival score was associated with higher COVID-19 contamination fears (B = − 0.02, 95% CI − 0.03, − 0.002). Higher odds of reporting dry mouth were associated with greater fear of COVID-19 socioeconomic consequences (AOR = 1.05, 95% CI 1.001, 1.09), and lower coping scores (AOR = 0.93, 95% CI 0.88, 0.99). The findings suggest an association between COVID-19 specific stresses and stress-related oral conditions and shed light on the possible link between mental and oral health, emphasizing the importance of integrated planning of care services.

Clinical Evaluation of Short Tuberosity Implants among Type 2 Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Patients: A 5 Year Follow-Up.

Aim: To assess clinical and radiographic parameters including bleeding on probing (BoP); probing depth (PD), plaque index (PI) and crestal bone loss (CBL) around short tuberosity implants (STI) supporting fixed partial dentures in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and non-diabetics. Material and Methods: Participants with T2DM and without T2DM with at least one STI (6 mm) posteriorly restored with a fixed partial denture splinting premolar implant were included. A questionnaire collected demographic details including gender, age, duration of diabetes, habits of brushing, the total number of dental implants and location, implant loading after placement, restoration type, and family history of DM. Clinical and radiographic assessment of peri-implant parameters, i.e., bleeding on probing (BoP), probing depth (PD), plaque index (PI), and crestal bone loss (CBL) was performed. The restorative success of STI was determined by no sensation of the foreign body, lack of pain and dysesthesia, lack of infection, no radiolucency around the implant, and no mobility. The Kruskal–Wallis test was used for statistical analysis. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Twenty-five T2DM (19 males and 6 females) and 25 non-diabetic (18 males and 7 females) participants were included. The number of STIs in T2DM was 41, whereas in non-diabetic it was 38. At 1 year follow-up, mean PI% in T2DM participants was 18.9% (19.2–21.4%) and in non-diabetics it was 17.6% (16.3–18.5%). The mean PD was recorded in diabetics (1.3 ± 5.0 mm) and non-diabetics (1.1 ± 3.2 mm). The BoP value in diabetics was 44.9% (39.8–46.4%) and 28.2% in non-diabetics (17.2–24.6%). At 5 years of follow-up, the mean PI% range in T2DM participants was 26.18% (25.4–29.1%) and 24.42% in non-diabetic (20.1–25.5%). The mean PD in millimeters around STI in T2DM was observed to be 2.3 ± 4.8 mm and 1.4 ± 3.4 mm in non-diabetics. In addition, BoP in diabetic participants was 39.54% (27.7–42.1%) and 24.42% in non-diabetics (20.1–25.5%). A total of six STIs failed, i.e., two in the non-diabetic and four in the T2DM group. Conclusions: Patients with T2DM have poor periodontal (BoP, PD, CBL) and restorative peri-implant parameters around STIs when compared to healthy (non-diabetic) participants at five years of follow-up. For long-term stability, glycemic control is pivotal along with following good plaque control.

Electromyographic evaluation of masseter and temporalis muscle activity after periodontal surgery: A prospective clinical trial

ObjectivesFollowing periodontal treatment, tooth supporting structures are restored to functionality and hence improve muscle activity. In this study, we aimed to investigate the influence of periodontal disease on muscle activity by electromyography and the subjective perception of periodontal therapy through the Oral Impact on Daily Performance (OIDP) questionnaire. MethodsSixty subjects with moderate to severe periodontitis were included. Periodontal condition was re-evaluated 4–6 weeks after non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT). Subjects with persistent probing pocket depths ≥5 mm were designated for flap surgery. All clinical parameters were recorded at baseline, 3 months and 6 months after surgery. The activities of the masseter and temporalis muscles were measured by electromyography and OIDP scores were recorded at baseline and 3 months. ResultsThe mean plaque index scores, probing pocket depths, and clinical attachment levels were reduced from baseline to 3 months. Mean EMG scores were compared at baseline and 3 months post-surgery. The mean OIDP total score prior to and after periodontal therapy was significantly different. ConclusionThere was a statistically significant correlation between clinical parameters, muscle activity and a patient's subjective perception. Therefore, it can be concluded that successful periodontal flap surgery led to improvements in masticatory efficiency and subjective perception, as determined by the OIDP questionnaire.

Comparative efficacy of coconut oil-pulling therapy versus 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthrinse on dental plaque and gingival health

Introduction: Periodontitis is an inflammatory microbial disease caused by complex of microbes. Prevention and control of periodontal disease must be based on the regular and complete removal of bacterial plaque n. Various modes of mechanical and chemical means of plaque control exist Conventionally, essential oils have also been used to cure many oral conditions. Many oils have been investigated for their effectiveness as anti plaque and anti gingivitis agents. Very few studies have used coconut oil or this purpose. Aim: The present study was undertaken with the aim to investigate the efficacy of virgin coconut oil pulling therapy versus 0.2% CHX mouthrinse and their effect on clinical parameters and total microbial load in salivary sample of periodontally healthy volunteers. Material and Methods: A total of 30 periodontally healthy volunteers with the age range of 18–45 years were randomly divided into two groups:-Group 1:virgin coconut oil mouthrinse (Plant Lipids®, Cochin, India) and Group 2: 0.2% CHX mouthrinse (Clohex Plus®, Dr Reddy's, India). Clinical parameters such as Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), and Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI) were recorded for all the subjects. An unstimulated salivary sample was collected in a sterile calibrated bottle and sent for baseline examination of oral microbial load. Subjects were asked to perform oil pulling in (Group 1) and 0.2% CHX rinse in (Group 2) in front of the instructor and were asked to continue for rest of the trial period in the same manner. Results: The mean PI at day 10, day 21, and day 30 was significantly more among coconut oil than CHX group. The mean CFU at day 10, day 21, and day 30 was significantly more among coconut oil than the CHXgroup. Conclusion: Both the study groups showed reductions in PI, GI, and GBI scores, higher reductions were seen in the CHX group. It was observed that CHX and virgin coconut oil were effective against microorganisms, thus causes a reduction in CFU and thus serve as a good alternative.

Correlation between BMI and Oral Health Status (DMFT, PI, mSBI, and Salivary 1,5-AG) among the Pediatric Population in Saudi Arabia: A Clinico-Biochemical Study.

The study aimed to investigate the association of varying body mass index (BMI) with oral health status among children aged 5–14 years and correlate the concentration of salivary levels of 1,5-AG with varying BMI, dental caries, and periodontal disease. This cross-sectional study was conducted on subjects aged 5 to 14 years. The children were recruited from the Pediatric Dental Clinic, College of Dentistry, Majmaah University, by convenient sampling method. Sociodemographic details and clinical parameters, including body mass index (BMI), DMFT/def (deciduous decayed tooth (d), deciduous extracted tooth (e), deciduous filled tooth (f), permanent tooth decayed (D), permanent missing tooth (M), and permanent filled tooth (F)), plaque index (PI), and modified sulcular bleeding index (mSBI), were evaluated. Salivary 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) was analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for all the subjects. Statistical analyses performed using SPSS v. 27 (IBM Statistics, Chicago, IL, USA) and the Kruskal–Wallis and chi-square tests were used for comparisons. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient was used to examine the association between the study subjects’ independent variables, BMI, and caries activity. The mean def score, PI, and mSBI scores were higher in obese children. PI score, mSBI score, and salivary concentrations of 1,5-AG between the BMI categories were statistically significant (p < 0.001). The study emphasizes promoting preventive oral health regimes, health awareness campaigns, and nutritional educational programs among the pediatric population.

Oral health status in a Lebanese geriatric population.

The sustained growth of older people and the epidemiological shift from communicable to chronic health problems have attracted increased attention to geriatric wellbeing, including oral health. To evaluate the oral health of urban community-dwelling older people and identify their priority oral health needs. We recruited 352 adults aged ≥ 65 years in 2015 from social organizations and primary healthcare centres in Beirut and its suburbs. Older people underwent dental examination including the decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) score, gingival health [plaque index (PI) and Periodontal Screening and Recording (PSR)], and dental functional units (FUs). Sociodemographic data were gathered through a structured questionnaire in a face-to-face interview. The participants were stratified into 3 age groups, and according to restoration with partial, complete and no dentures. Statistical analyses included the Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis and χ2 tests to explore the oral health status by sociodemographics. Missing teeth contributed most to high DMFT score. Mean PI and root caries indices were high. Mean FU scores were low, but higher in women and in complete denture wearers. Lower numbers of remaining mandibular anterior and maxillary posterior teeth, higher DMFT scores, but better periodontal status (lower PSR scores) were found in the older age groups. The more educated participants exhibited the healthier scores. We observed poor oral health, particularly missing teeth and low FUs, in older people, warranting interventions to integrate oral health within the scope of geriatric general health.

Assessment of role of tetracycline fibres in chronic periodontitis patients

Background: Tetracycline has been used to treat periodontal disease due to its unique ability to reduce degeneration of collagenous matrix. The present study was conducted to assess role of tetracycline fibres in adjunct to scaling and root planning. Materials &amp; Methods: 40 patients of chronic periodontitis were divided into 2 groups pf 40 each. Group I underwent scaling and root planning whereas group II patients underwent scaling and root planning followed by local application of tetracycline gel. Patients were recalled regularly at 1 month, 3 months and 6 months to assess plaque index, gingival index and Probing pocket depth. Results: The mean plaque index 1 month was 0.54 and 0.42, at 3 months was 0.72 and 0.54 and at 6 months was 0.76 and 0.60 in group I and II respectively. Gingival index was 0.44 and 0.28 at 1 month, 0.52 and 0.40 at 3 months and 0.68 and 0.56 at 9 months in group I and II respectively. Probing pocket depth at 1 month was 1.50 and 1.20, at 3 months was 1.46 and 1.38 and at 6 months was 1.40 and 1.24 in group I and II respectively.

Clinical investigation of the effects of oral health education in children with Down Syndrome

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of oral health education, which includes parents on children with Down Syndrome (DS). Material and Methods: The present study included 35 children with DS. Oral hygiene education was given through a program that included parents. The oral hygiene and periodontal health status of all the children were clinically assessed using clinical index measurements such as Bleeding on Probing (BOP), Gingival Index (GI) and Plaque Index (PI) at the baseline, 1st month, 3rd month and 6th month after oral health education programme. Statistical analyses were performed. Results: All the mean PI, GI and BP measurements showed a statistically significant decrease according to the baseline mean values (p&lt;0.05). Moreover, oral hygiene education, in which parents are involved, the fact that the clinical measurements on the posterior teeth are higher than on the anterior teeth. Results clearly indicate the difficulty of brushing on the posterior teeth in children with special needs. Conclusion: Oral health education has been determined to be rather effective on all clinical measurements. Scientific studies and educational programs in which sufficient information is provided to parents about oral health should be encouraged.

Primary Teeth Supported Fixed Prosthesis-A Predictable Treatment Alternative.

Background: Individuals with tooth agenesis often present a significant clinical challenge for dental practitioners. This retrospective study evaluated clinical and radiological long-term functional and esthetic outcomes following restoration using primary teeth to support fixed all-ceramic prosthesis in patients with teeth agenesis. Methods: Patients with teeth agenesis and at least one year follow-up were included. Examinations included panoramic X-ray, clinical examination and family history records. Only primary teeth without permanent teeth underneath were chosen. All ceramic fixed restorations were used. All data were collected from patient files. Outcome parameters included: restoration parameters (restoration survival, restoration fractures, restoration detachment, restoration replacement, and secondary caries), plaque index, and gingival index. Results: The study included 58 porcelain restorations inserted in 25 individuals; mean age 12 ± 2.1 years (range 10–19 years); mean number of missing teeth 12.3 ± 9 (range 6–12). Mean follow-up 48 ± 6 months (range 12–60 months). All restorations survived up to last follow-up, rendering a survival rate of 100%. Restorations outcome—porcelain chipping (9%), detachment (2%), no restoration replacement nor secondary caries, mean gingival index—0.7 ± 0.5 and mean plaque index—0.9 ± 0.3. Conclusions: In tooth agenesis, restoration using primary teeth to support fixed all-ceramic prosthesis is a viable treatment alternative.

Effect of Khat Chewing on Gingival Health of Patients with Fixed Orthodontic Appliances: A Controlled-Clinical Trial

This clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effect of Khat chewing on the gingival health of patients with fixed orthodontic appliances (FOAs) by measuring some periodontal parameters before and during 6-time intervals of orthodontic therapy. It also aimed to evaluate this effect regarding gender. The study included 39 Yemeni orthodontic patients with a mean age of 25.7±4.5; divided into two groups, a control (non-chewers) with a mean age of 25.81±4.3 and an experimental (chewers) group with a mean age of 25.61±4.8. An examination sheet was used for data collection, including the patient’s personal information, oral health status, and three periodontal parameters: plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and pocket depth (PD). These data measurements were analyzed using SPSS v.24. The study showed an increase in mean plaque, gingival, and pocket depth indices at all-time visits after the appliance insertion compared to all patients’ pre-treatment status. It indicates that Khat chewing harms all periodontal parameters during the orthodontic treatment period. Mean PI, GI and PD were lower in female patients than male patients after the appliance insertion. The khat chewing process mechanically removes the dental plaque, decreasing PI and GI, while PD was worse in Khat chewers than non-chewers. Finally, it is recommended that chewing Khat should be avoided during orthodontic therapy.

Assessment of effect of probiotics to nonsurgical treatment of chronic periodontitis

Background: Periodontal disease represents an inflammation of both soft and hard tooth-supporting tissues which is regarded as one of the major causes of tooth loss worldwide. The present study was conducted to assess effect of probiotics to nonsurgical treatment of chronic periodontitis. Materials &amp; Methods: 48 patients of chronic periodontitis of both genders was included. In all patients, bacterial cultures and clinical evaluation were recorded in 70 sites in patients. After scaling and root planning (SRP), oral hygiene measures were reassured, and sites were divided into 2 groups 35 sites each. Group I received SRP only and group II received SRP and subgingival delivery of 1 ml of probiotic L. Results: Out of 48 patients, males were 23 and females were 25. The mean plaque index showed score 3 at baseline was seen in 35 in group I and 35 in group II. At 3 months score 1 was seen in 17 in group I and 35 in group II, score 2 in 18 in group I. At 6 months, score 2 was seen in 17 in group I and 25 in group II and score 3 in 18 in group I. and 10 in group II.

Hyaluronic Acid Gel as Adjunct to Scaling and Root Planing Versus Scaling and Root Planing Alone in Treatment of Intraosseous Defects in Chronic Periodontitis Patients

Context: Wound healing and associated tissue regeneration process are significant to successful outcomes during periodontal therapy. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is one of the important promoting factors that facilitate cell migration and differentiation during this process. Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of HA as a therapeutic bone regenerant in conjunction with scaling and root planing in the treatment of intra-osseous defects in chronic periodontitis patients. Settings and Design: The present study was planned as a randomized controlled trial on chronic periodontitis patients aged between 25 and 55 years comprising 120 sites with clinically confirmed intrabony pockets ≥5 mm. Materials and Methods: The patients were allocated to two groups using simple randomization process as Group A, wherein mechanical disruption of plaque biofilm was followed by placement of HA gel (HA gel) and Group B, wherein scaling and root planing alone were used as a treatment modality. The clinical parameters recorded at baseline and on follow-up visits after 4 and 6 weeks of the procedure included gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL). Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS statistics 17 (Chicago, USA). A comparison of different parameters within the group was made using unpaired t-test, while a comparison between the groups was made using paired t-test. P &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: On intragroup comparisons, for GI, there was seen a statistically significant decrease in the mean GI scores at different time intervals in both the groups (P &lt; 0.001 for both Group A and Group B for baseline vs. 4th week and baseline vs. 6th week comparisons, while P = 0.04 for Group A and P = 0.008 for Group B for 4th week vs. 6th week comparisons). For PI, there was seen a statistically significant decrease in the mean PI values at different time intervals in Group A and B except from the 4th- to 6th-week interval. For PPD, there was seen a statistically significant decrease in the PPD at different time intervals in Group A (P &lt; 0.001 for Group A for baseline vs. 4th-week and baseline vs. 6th-week comparisons, while P = 0.01 for 4th week vs. 6th-week comparison), though, for Group B, statistically significant only when compared from baseline versus 6th week (P = 0.006). For CAL, the results were statistically significant in the baseline versus 4th-week and baseline versus 6th-week interval while insignificant in the 4th-week to 6th-week interval in Group A while on the contrary, the results were statistically significant only in the baseline to 6th-week interval in Group B and insignificant in the baseline versus 4th week and 4th week to 6th-week interval. On intergroup analysis, the results were statistically significant for all the parameters at the 4th- and 6th-week interval (P &lt; 0.001), though, insignificant at baseline. Conclusion: HA gel in conjunction with scaling and root planing aided regeneration of bone in intraosseous defects in chronic periodontitis patients, leading to significant improvement in the clinical parameters recorded.

The role of keratinized mucosa width as a risk factor for peri-implant disease: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and trial sequential analysis.

BackgroundStudies have examined the benefit of having keratinized peri‐implant mucosa width with mixed results.PurposeThis study examines whether the lack of a prespecified (2 mm) amount of keratinized mucosa width (KMW) is a risk factor for peri‐implant diseases.MethodsA systematic electronic and manual search of randomized or nonrandomized controlled or noncontrolled clinical trials was conducted. Qualitative review, quantitative meta‐analysis, and trial sequence analysis (TSA) of implants inserted at sites with <2 mm or ≥2 mm of KMW were analyzed to compare all the predetermined outcome variables. The level of evidence concerning the role of KMW in peri‐implant health was evaluated via the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system guide.ResultsNine studies were included in the qualitative analysis and four in the meta‐analysis and TSA. No significant inter‐group difference (p > 0.05) and a low power of evidence were found for probing depth, soft‐tissue recession, and marginal bone loss. A significant difference favoring ≥2 mm KMW had a lower mean plaque index (MD = 0.37, 95% CI: [0.16, 0.58], p = 0.002) (3 studies, 430 implants, low‐quality evidence). GRADE system showed very low and low quality of evidence for all other outcome measures.ConclusionBased on the available studies, the impact of amount of KMW (either <2 mm or ≥ 2 mm) as a risk factor for developing peri‐implant disease remains low. Future control studies with proper sample size and longer follow‐up are needed to further validate current findings.

Clinical efficacy of hydroxyapatite toothpaste containing Polyol Germanium Complex (PGC) with threonine in the treatment of dentine hypersensitivity

IntroductionThis study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy of a hydroxyapatite toothpaste containing a Polyol Germanium Complex with threonine in treating dentine hypersensitivity. The study also seeks to monitor the quality of life of the treated dentine hypersensitivity sufferers. Materials and methodsThis study is a randomized clinical trial with a total of 120 patients with dentine hypersensitivity. All participants were divided into three groups: patients assigned to the GARDA SILK toothpaste; patients receiving the conventional fluoride toothpaste for comparison purposes, and patients asked to brush their teeth without toothpaste. The modified Quigley-Heine Plaque Index was assessed at the baseline and after treatment. Sensitivity was assessed at baseline, 3, 7 and 14 days using the air stimulus (Schiff Index). The impact of dentine hypersensitivity on the quality of life was assessed before and after the treatment with the Russian version of the Dentine Hypersensitivity Experience Questionnaire (DHEQ). ResultsAfter 14 days of treatment, the mean Plaque Index scores in Groups 1 and 2 did not exceed 1 and averaged 0.72 ± 0.249 and 0.86 ± 0.213, respectively. In Group 3, the mean Plaque Index was significantly higher (1.04 ± 0.070, p < 0.05). The mean Schiff sensitivity scores in Group 1 decreased to 2.45 ± 0.42 at 3 days, 1.84 ± 0.26 at 7 days, and 1.02 ± 0.34 at 14 days. Group 2 exhibited smaller reductions in the Schiff index at all time points. In this group, Schiff scores dropped to 2.67 ± 0.28 after 3 days, 2.34 ± 0.44 after 7 days, and 1.93 ± 0.36 after 14 days. ConclusionThe GARDA SILK hydroxyapatite toothpaste with a threonine-containing Polyol Germanium Complex (PGC) is effective in maintaining good oral hygiene, reducing dentine hypersensitivity, and improving the quality of life of dentine hypersensitivity sufferers.

Association of Dermatoglyphic Patterns with DMFT Score, Salivary pH and Plaque Index Score: An In-Vivo Study

Background: Dental caries, although of infectious origin along with its multiple predisposing factors, may have a genetic predisposition. This study was executed to evaluate the association of dermatoglyphics as a genetic predictor of the susceptibility of participants to acquire dental caries considering environmental factors such as salivary pH, Decayed, Missing and Filled Permanent (DMFT) Score and Plaque Index Score. Methods: 531 student volunteers of a dental college were included in the study. Thumbprint patterns of the thumbs of their respective dominant hands were analyzed. DMFT Index, Plaque Index Score and Salivary pH for each subject was recorded. Statistical analysis was executed using nonparametric chi-square tests, correlation coefficients and measures of central tendencies. Results: The predominant thumbprint pattern seen was loop type followed by whorl and arch type with 52%, 31% and 17% of occurrence and a salivary pH of 7, 5 and 6 respectively. The Chi-Square tests concluded that whorl type of thumbprints show association with increased DMFT score. Mean and median plaque index score was considerably higher in the individuals with a whorl type of thumbprint. Conclusion: There was distinct association between pattern of thumbprints and prevalence of dental caries. Whorl type thumbprint could prove itself as a genetic predictor towards increased caries incidence.

Association between oral clefts and periodontal clinical measures: A meta-analysis.

To conduct a systematic review and to evaluate the clinical parameters for periodontal diseases in individuals with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P). The authors searched six indexed databases without any linguistic limitation through July 2021. The eligibility criteria were observational studies that compared the periodontal clinical measures of individuals with CL/P to those without CL/P. A meta-analysis was conducted using random-effects models with inverse variance weighting. The literature search generated 1277 records, and 40 full-text articles were reviewed. Twenty-three studies comprising 3235 individuals from four continents fulfilled our selection criteria. The meta-analysis revealed a significant difference in mean plaque index scores (MD=0.31, 95% CI=0.22, 0.41), gingival index scores (MD=0.50, 95% CI=0.24, 0.77), and periodontal pocket depth (MD=0.64, 95% CI=0.12, 1.16) between individuals with and without CL/P. A slight increase in clinical attachment loss was detected among individuals with CL/P; however, such an increase may have little clinical significance. As age is positively related to periodontal disease progression, and individuals with CL/P are more likely to present with more plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation, clinicians should reinforce preventive dental care from an early age.

Menopozun sağlıklı ve periodontitisli kadınlarda kortizol, alfa-amilaz, dopamin ve prolaktin seviyeleri üzerine etkisi: kesitsel bir çalışma

Aim: In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of menopause on serum levels of cortisol, alpha-amylase, dopamine, and prolactin in women with periodontitis and healthy controls.Methods: The study included a total of 80 women. Patients were diagnosed according to the 2017 World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions criteria. The clinical examination included plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment loss (AL) measurements. The systemic levels of cortisol, alpha-amylase,dopamine, and prolactin were measured biochemically. Data were analyzed statistically. Results: The mean participant age was 44.32±3.23 (range: 33–55) years. The mean PI was 0.98±0.10, GI 0.94±0.31, PD 2.59±0.23 mm, and AL 2.65±0.16 mm. While prolactin levels were statistically significantly lower in menopausal women (p&amp;lt;0.05), the changes in cortisol, alpha-amylase, and dopamine levels were not significant (p&amp;gt;0.05). Levels of cortisol, dopamine and prolactinwere found to be significantly high in women with periodontitis (p&amp;lt;0.05).Conclusion: It was found that menopause had no effect on the clinical periodontal parameters and levels of cortisol, alpha-amylase, and dopamine in women with periodontitis and healthy controls.However, menopause was associated with decreased prolactin levels, independent of the presence of periodontal disease.

Association between the caregivers' oral health literacy and the oral health of children and youth with special health care needs.

AimPrevious studies have shown that children of caregivers with low oral health literacy (OHL) had more untreated caries than children of caregivers with adequate OHL. However, there is a paucity of information on this relationship among children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN). Accordingly, this study aims to assess the association between the caregivers’ OHL and the oral health status of CYSHCN.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in four schools dedicated for CYSHCN. A 48-item questionnaire gathered information about the demographic and socioeconomic factors, the child/adolescent’s medical condition, dental characteristics, caregiver self-efficacy and the child’s dental attitude. The Comprehensive Measure of Oral Health Knowledge (CMOHK) questionnaire was used to assess the caregivers’ OHL. The Löe & Silness gingival index (GI) and the Silness & Löe plaque index (PI) were used to assess gingival health and plaque levels, respectively. Directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) were utilized for the selection of the appropriate set of confounding variables for regression analysis. The mean score differences and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated to quantify the associations of the various covariates with oral health outcome variables.ResultsThis study included 214 child/caregiver dyads. Most participants were physically disabled (56.1%) followed by children with hearing difficulty (9.8%) and congenital anomalies/syndromes (7.9%). The mean PI and GI of the children was 1.26±0.52 and 1.30±0.47, respectively. The median CMOHK score was 12 and the respondents were dichotomized based on the median value. Low caregiver oral health conceptual knowledge was significantly associated with higher PI scores (β [95% CI] = -0.26 [-0.41, -0.13]; p<0.001. Older participants (12-21-year-olds) had significantly higher plaque scores compared with younger participants (6-12-year-olds) (β [95% CI] = 0.33 [0.18, 0.51]; p<0.001). Participants who brushed their teeth twice or more daily had significantly lower (β [95% CI] = -0.15 [-0.43, -0.01]; p = 0.046). Conceptual knowledge score was not significantly associated with GI.ConclusionThis study found lower caregiver OHL levels to be associated with higher plaque scores for their child.

COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF THE EFFICACY OF 4% MANGOSTEEN GEL AND 1% CHLORHEXIDINE DIGLUCONATE GEL IN MANAGEMENT OF PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC GINGIVITIS: A RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL

To clinically evaluate &amp; compare the efficacy of 4% Mangosteen Gel and 1% chlorhexidine digluconate gel in managing patients with chronic gingivitis. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 patients with an age group of 20-45 years diagnosed with generalized plaque-induced gingivitis were selected for this clinical trial once attaining their informed consent. A thorough case history was chronicled comprising plaque index (P.I.), gingival index (G.I.) and Sulcus bleeding index (SBI) at baseline; then full-mouth scaling and polishing (SAP) was performed by a solitary attuned examiner. Patients were then randomly assigned into two groups using a computer-generated random numbering sequence system. Patients in group A received 4% Mangosteen Gel, and group B received 1% chlorhexidine digluconate gel for home application. The post-treatment follow-up examination for P.I., G.I. and SBI changes were assessed after 14 days and 21 days and compared with baseline data. Results: In both the groups, the mean plaque index, gingival index and sulcus bleeding index scores were significantly decreased after the 14th and 21st day compared to baseline scores. There was no significant difference between the groups, but only in group B, there was a substantial difference in SBI scores observed on day 21. Conclusion: 4% Mangosteen Gel and 1% chlorhexidine digluconate gel were clinically effective when used as an adjunct to SAP in managing patients with gingivitis. Hence, 4% Mangosteen Gel can be considered an alternative to 1% chlorhexidine digluconate gel without any side effects in managing generalized plaque-induced gingivitis.