Oral Health Challenges Research Articles

Exploring and enhancing the accessibility of children's oral health resources (called HABIT) for high risk communities

BackgroundWithin the city of Bradford in West Yorkshire, South Asian and Eastern European communities have an increased risk of childhood tooth decay, especially among families with Limited English Proficiency. Tooth decay is preventable, with national guidelines advocating home-based behaviours (toothbrushing with fluoride toothpaste and reducing sugar intake). In England, Health Visitors have opportunities to undertake oral health conversations during universal visits for children aged 0–24 months. The HABIT (Health visitors delivering Advice in Britain on Infant Toothbrushing) intervention provides structured oral health conversations, underpinned by complex intervention methodology. A feasibility study found HABIT acceptable to parents, feasible to deliver and led to improvements in home-based behaviours. However, the reach of this original study was limited to those proficient in English. This new study focused on exploring and enhancing the accessibility of the HABIT intervention to parents with Limited English Proficiency.MethodTwenty-four parents participated in interviews and focus groups, with 21 requesting support from interpreters. Community centres and WhatsApp were used to maximise inclusivity. Interviews and focus groups, followed a topic guide and the “Think Aloud” technique, were professionally transcribed, managed in NVivo, and thematically analysed. Team discussions facilitated analytical rigour. Recruitment continued until data saturation.ResultsThree themes were developed: (1) Navigating linguistic barriers; (2) Engagement through visuals; and (3) Addressing oral health challenges. Parents employed diverse strategies to interpret resources, including Google Translate, as well as family and wider community members. Consequently, the HABIT resources were modified to include simple text, subtitles, and translation tools. Parents highlighted the benefits of shorter oral health messages with clear visuals to help understanding, and this strategy was applied across all resources. Challenges surrounding children's resistance to toothbrushing, high sugar intake within their wider families and communities, and limited dental access were all raised. The HABIT resources were updated to address these challenges.ConclusionCollaborative community engagement has enhanced the HABIT resources, enabling access for high-risk communities to preventive oral-health programmes thereby promoting health equity.

Geriatric Oral Health and Quality of Life Among the Indigenous Irula Tribes of Tamil Nadu.

This study aims to assess the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among the Irula tribes and to know the factors influencing quality of life among the elderly irula tribes of Tamil Nadu. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Northern district of Tamil Nadu, including 486 Irula individuals aged 65 and above. Participants were selected using a multistage sampling method. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, including the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) to evaluate OHRQoL. The study tool covered demographics, medical history, and oral health issues. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 23, with logistic regression applied to account for confounders. The sample primarily consisted of individuals aged 65-69 years (55.6%), with a predominance of females (76.3%). The majority were Hindu (94.9%) and lived in nuclear families (88.3%). Educational levels were low, with 66.5% being illiterate. Most participants were agricultural laborers (64.6%) and had low monthly incomes. GOHAI results revealed that many respondents faced significant oral health challenges, including difficulties with eating, speaking, and discomfort. Multivariate analysis showed that educational level significantly affected OHRQoL, with higher education correlating with better quality of life. Arthritis was associated with poorer OHRQoL, while other health conditions did not show significant impacts. The study highlights severe oral health issues among the Irula community, with significant physical and psychological impacts. Educational attainment plays a crucial role in OHRQoL, while arthritis notably affects quality of life. The findings emphasize the need for targeted oral health interventions and increased awareness in tribal communities to improve overall health outcomes. Further research in larger populations is necessary to comprehensively understand and address geriatric oral health needs.

Impact of systemic diseases on oral health and facial surgery outcomes

Systemic diseases have a profound influence on oral health and maxillofacial surgical outcomes, presenting challenges that require comprehensive management. Diabetes mellitus is a prominent example, with its impact on periodontal health and healing processes being well-established. Elevated blood glucose levels in diabetic patients impair immune response, reduce collagen synthesis, and delay wound healing, increasing the risk of periodontitis and postoperative complications following surgical interventions such as dental implants. Similarly, cardiovascular diseases exacerbate the inflammatory response linked to periodontal disease, potentially worsening both oral health and systemic conditions, thus complicating the recovery process after maxillofacial surgery. These patients often face heightened risks of infections and slower healing, partly due to the frequent use of anticoagulant medications, which can interfere with surgical procedures. Immunocompromised individuals, such as those with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) or undergoing chemotherapy, also experience significant oral health challenges, including higher susceptibility to oral infections and delayed tissue repair. Reduced immune function and mucosal integrity make it difficult for these patients to recover effectively after maxillofacial surgery, increasing the risk of complications such as infection and wound dehiscence. Moreover, osteoporosis, a systemic condition characterized by reduced bone density, affects the success of dental implants and bone grafting procedures. The decreased bone quality in osteoporotic patients compromises the ability to achieve stable osseointegration, leading to higher implant failure rates and additional surgical challenges. Addressing these complex interactions between systemic health and oral conditions requires an interdisciplinary approach, integrating medical and dental care to enhance treatment outcomes. Proper management of systemic diseases, along with individualized dental and surgical protocols, is essential to improving the prognosis for patients with concurrent systemic and oral health issues.

Exploring the Link between Xerostomia and Oral Health in Mental Illness: Insights from Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia.

The relationship between mental disorders and oral health is complex, involving behavioral, biological, and psychosocial factors. This review aims to investigate the impact of mental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, on oral health outcomes. A comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted to analyze the oral health outcomes associated with each mental disorder. The focus was on examining dietary habits, oral hygiene behaviors, physiological changes, and medication side effects that contribute to oral health issues. The findings indicate that individuals with ASD often exhibit unique dietary habits and reduced oral hygiene capabilities due to sensory sensitivities, leading to a higher prevalence of dental caries and periodontal diseases. Depression and bipolar disorder are associated with physiological changes such as reduced saliva production and poor oral hygiene behaviors, increasing the risk of oral health problems. Medications used for these conditions exacerbate issues like xerostomia, further elevating the risk of dental diseases. Schizophrenia poses additional challenges, including cognitive impairments and medication side effects that hinder effective oral care, heightening susceptibility to oral diseases. This review highlights the specific oral health challenges associated with different mental disorders and emphasizes the need for tailored dental care strategies that integrate mental health considerations. The study contributes to the literature by demonstrating the unique oral health impacts of these disorders. However, the findings are limited by the scope of available cross-sectional data and the absence of longitudinal studies. Future research should focus on longitudinal and intervention-based studies to explore causal relationships and develop effective treatments.

Oral health and dental care challenges in scleroderma-perspectives of dentists, rheumatologists and patients.

The oral healthcare challenges of people living with scleroderma are poorly understood, yet frequently reported. This mixed methods study aimed to investigate oral health and dental care challenges associated with scleroderma from the perspective of dentists, rheumatologists and patients. Dentists, rheumatologists and scleroderma patients in the UK completed a survey about their experiences of oral health, dental care and quality of life. People with scleroderma were also interviewed. We conducted descriptive analysis of quantitative data and used thematic analysis to examine qualitative data. A total of 95.5% of patients reported oral and dental manifestations of scleroderma (ODMS); 57.1% reported high physical impacts, 53.8% high psychological impacts and 47.7% high social impacts. Only 13% of patients were informed of ODMS at diagnosis. No dentist or rheumatologist felt fully confident in managing ODMS. The most frequent suggestion for improvement among patients and dentists was increased information for dentists. We identified three key themes: significant negative impact on quality of life, barriers to accessing dental care and characteristics of good dental care. ODMS are prevalent issues, constituting a significant burden on quality of life. Rheumatologists should inform scleroderma patients of ODMS and embed oral health inquiries into annual reviews. Communication between medical and dental practitioners should be encouraged to facilitate early identification and management of ODMS.

Oral health in obese children common findings, prevention, treatment and outcome

Childhood obesity is a significant global public health issue, closely linked to various oral health challenges, including dental caries, periodontal disease, and malocclusion. Obese children are more prone to these dental problems due to dietary habits that include high sugar and carbohydrate intake, poor oral hygiene practices, and systemic inflammation. This review explores the common oral health issues faced by obese children and emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies and tailored treatment approaches. Preventive measures include promoting healthy dietary habits, improving oral hygiene practices, and ensuring regular dental check-ups. Dietary modifications, such as reducing the intake of sugary snacks and beverages, play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay and other dental problems. Educating children and caregivers about proper brushing and flossing techniques and the use of fluoride toothpaste and dental sealants further supports oral health. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and management of dental issues, with professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and appropriate restorative and periodontal therapies being integral components of care. The outcomes of these comprehensive treatment strategies are generally positive, leading to improved oral health and overall quality of life for obese children. Multidisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers, including dentists, pediatricians, and nutritionists, is essential to develop effective care plans that address both obesity and oral health. This integrated approach ensures that obese children receive holistic care that promotes lifelong healthy habits, reducing the risk of future dental and systemic health problems. The review underscores the necessity of a concerted effort to address the intertwined issues of obesity and oral health in children, highlighting the potential for significant health improvements through targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Oral And Dental Evaluation Of Bone Marrow Transplant Patients: A Retrospective Observational Study

This retrospective observational study aims to evaluate the oral and dental conditions of 100 bone marrow transplant (BMT) patients. The study assessed oral pathologies, including root canal treatments, extractions, squamous cell carcinoma cases, oral prophylaxis procedures, and restorations. The findings provide valuable insights into the oral health challenges faced by BMT patients, emphasizing the need for specialized dental care and preventive measures in this vulnerable population

Oral health care in Europe: A study with a focus on Romania

Oral health is fundamental to overall health and well-being, closely linked to quality of life, social equity, and economic productivity. This comprehensive study explores the complex landscape of oral health care across Europe, with a particular focus on Romania—a country facing significant oral health challenges. My objective is to provide a thorough examination of oral health disparities, preventive strategies, innovative treatments, and policy recommendations to guide future efforts in improving oral health outcomes. This report aims to serve as an invaluable resource for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and public health advocates dedicated to advancing oral health care across Europe.

Navigating Barriers to Oral Health Challenges Faced by Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scoping Review.

This article identifies the multifaceted challenges that hinder optimal oral health among children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While dental care is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, children with ASD encounter unique obstacles that often go unnoticed. Drawing from a comprehensive review of existing literature and insights from healthcare professionals, this article explores the sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, and behavioral issues that contribute to suboptimal oral hygiene in this demographic. We also discuss the critical role of caregivers, dentists, and educators in addressing these challenges, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and tailored strategies to improve the oral health of children with ASD. By shedding light on these obstacles, this article aims to foster a more inclusive and holistic approach to oral healthcare for children with ASD, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life.

SPECIAL CARE DENTISTRY FOR DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED CHILD

Special Care Dentistry (SCD) is a discipline focused on enhancing oral health for individuals with diverse impairments, including physical, sensory, intellectual, and medical conditions. It highlights the significant prevalence of disabilities in India and globally, as well as the complex nature of disability according to the WHO International Classification of Functioning. It discusses the extended lifespan of Children with Special Healthcare Needs (CSHCN) due to medical advancements, which necessitates tailored dental care to manage associated oral health challenges. Despite global efforts to improve oral health, disadvantaged and disabled populations continue to face disparities. It concludes by outlining the scope of a forthcoming library dissertation, which aims to review prevalent oral conditions among individuals with special needs and propose general care recommendations to address their unique challenges in accessing dental treatment.

Oral health in obese children common findings, prevention, treatment, and outcome

Childhood obesity is a significant global public health issue, closely linked to various oral health challenges, including dental caries, periodontal disease, and malocclusion. Obese children are more prone to these dental problems due to dietary habits that include high sugar and carbohydrate intake, poor oral hygiene practices, and systemic inflammation. This review explores the common oral health issues faced by obese children and emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies and tailored treatment approaches. Preventive measures include promoting healthy dietary habits, improving oral hygiene practices, and ensuring regular dental check-ups. Dietary modifications, such as reducing the intake of sugary snacks and beverages, play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay and other dental problems. Educating children and caregivers about proper brushing and flossing techniques and the use of fluoride toothpaste and dental sealants further supports oral health. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and management of dental issues, with professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and appropriate restorative and periodontal therapies being integral components of care. The outcomes of these comprehensive treatment strategies are generally positive, leading to improved oral health and overall quality of life for obese children. Multidisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers, including dentists, pediatricians, and nutritionists, is essential to develop effective care plans that address both obesity and oral health. This integrated approach ensures that obese children receive holistic care that promotes lifelong healthy habits, reducing the risk of future dental and systemic health problems. The review underscores the necessity of a concerted effort to address the intertwined issues of obesity and oral health in children, highlighting the potential for significant health improvements through targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Craniosynostosis: orofacial and oral health perspectives with masticatory insights

BackgroundCraniosynostosis (CS), premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures, leads to abnormal skull development, impacting both facial esthetics and oral function. This study aimed to evaluate the specific orofacial and oral health characteristics, including masticatory performance, in Thai patients with CS.MethodsA comparative study was conducted with Thai CS patients aged 6–17 years and a control group of healthy individuals with similar age distribution. Assessments included craniofacial morphology, oral health status, and masticatory performance. Intergroup comparisons utilized appropriate statistical tests.ResultsThe study included 24 CS patients with a mean age of 10.11 ± 2.98 years and 30 controls. CS patients exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of various oral conditions compared to controls: cleft palate (20.8%), anterior open bite (41.7%), anterior crossbite (54.2%), posterior crossbite (50%), combined anterior–posterior crossbite (45.8%), dental crowding in both maxilla and mandible (50% and 45.8% respectively), congenitally missing teeth (50%), supernumerary teeth (12.5%), and eruption failure (54.2%). Furthermore, CS patients exhibited significantly higher caries prevalence and susceptibility, alongside poorer oral hygiene, compared to controls. Regarding jaw relationships, CS patients exhibited a significantly higher proportion of Angle's Class III malocclusion (50%) compared to the control group, where Class I malocclusion was predominant (50%). Masticatory performance, assessed using the two-color gum mixing ability test, showed significantly higher hue variance in CS patients (0.12 ± 0.07) compared to the control group, indicating reduced chewing performance.ConclusionThis study underscores the significant orofacial and oral health challenges faced by children with CS, including a high prevalence of malocclusions, dental anomalies, elevated caries experience, and compromised masticatory function. These findings emphasize the importance of tailored interventions and comprehensive oral healthcare strategies to address the unique needs of this population and improve their overall quality of life.

Assessment of oral health status and treatment needs among visually impaired children in Vadodara city: An observational study

ABSTRACT Background: Maintaining optimal oral health is crucial for all children, but it holds particular significance for visually impaired children (VIC). Neglecting oral health can lead to a myriad of issues such as dental caries, gum disease, traumatic dental injuries (TDI), and even systemic health problems. Therefore, tailored interventions are essential to ensure their well-being and life quality. Aim: The current research aimed to assess the oral health status and treatment needs among VIC. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional survey was conducted on 300 VIC in Vadodara city between September 2022 and December 2022. The oral examination was done in the respected school in the daylight with a normal sitting chair. Oral health status was checked according to the World Health Organization criteria (2013). Malocclusion was checked according to Angle’s classification of malocclusion. Descriptive statistical analysis was used. Results: The prevalence of dental caries was found to be 65%. 70% of children showed periodontal condition. TDIs among VICs were 40%. There is a high prevalence (91%) of Class I malocclusion. Most of the children require prompt treatment. Conclusion: The study reveals alarming dental health issues among VIC in Vadodara. With 65% experiencing dental caries, 70% displaying periodontal conditions, and 40% suffering from TDI, the oral health challenges are significant. Furthermore, a striking 91% exhibit Class I malocclusion. These findings underscore an urgent need for comprehensive dental care and tailored interventions to address the substantial oral health disparities in this vulnerable population. Immediate attention and specialized treatment plans are crucial to improving their overall well-being and quality of life.

Menopause and Oral Health: Clinical Implications and Preventive Strategies

ABSTRACT Menopause, occurring typically between the ages of 45 and 55 years, marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and is characterized by the cessation of menstruation and a significant decline in estrogen and progesterone production. These hormonal changes impact various aspects of health, including oral health. This review explores the clinical implications of menopause on oral health and outlines preventive strategies. Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to xerostomia (dry mouth), periodontal disease, burning mouth syndrome (BMS), oral mucosal changes, altered taste sensation, and osteoporosis-related oral health issues. Xerostomia results from decreased salivary flow, increasing the risk of dental caries and oral infections. Periodontal disease is exacerbated by estrogen deficiency, leading to bone loss and increased tooth mobility. BMS, characterized by a chronic burning sensation, and oral mucosal atrophy are linked to hormonal fluctuations. In addition, altered taste perception and osteoporosis further complicate oral health management. Effective prevention and management strategies include regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene practices, and tailored treatments such as fluoride treatments, saliva substitutes, and hormone replacement therapy. Nonpharmacological approaches such as stress management and lifestyle modifications also play a role. This review emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, involving dental and medical professionals, to address the complex oral health challenges faced by menopausal women. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and implementing evidence-based preventive measures can significantly enhance the oral health and overall well-being of menopausal women.

A rural teledentistry care experience: a geriatric approach to assessing oral health status and treatment needs in older adults from a Mapuche community in Chile.

Limited attention has been given to oral health challenges faced by older Indigenous populations, especially in rural settings, where disparities exist. This study aims to assess oral health in a rural Mapuche community in southern Chile, utilizing geriatric technology support, and exploring the connection between geriatric health and oral well-being to fill a gap in this context. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 76 independent older adults from a rural Mapuche community who required dental care. Assessments were in a remote care setting gathering extensive data including comprehensive geriatric assessments, medical and dental conditions using a geriatric teledentistry platform (TEGO®). Statistical analysis involved descriptive analysis, logistic regression, and both multiple correspondence analysis and k-means cluster analysis. The sample comprised individuals with limited formal education and a high degree of vulnerability. Geriatric assessments unveiled cognitive deterioration, frailty, depression risk, and multimorbidity. A distribution of the DMFT index, number of remaining teeth, number of occluding pairs, number of teeth with restorative needs and other relevant clinical findings was conducted based on sociodemographic, and medical-geriatric-dental characteristics, and additionally, a Multinomial Logistic Regression Analysis of Dentition Variables in Relation to Geriatric Assessments was performed. The dental burden was substantial, with an average DMFT index of 25.96 (SD 4.38), high prevalence of non-functional dentition (89.3%), periodontal disease (83%), xerostomia (63.2%) and oral mucosal lesions (31.5%). Age, lower education, depression, daily medication number and sugary consumption frequency were associated with a decreased average number of teeth (p < 0.05). Multiple correspondence analysis and k-means cluster analysis identified 4 clusters, with the edentulous and functional dentition groups being the most distinct. This study uncovers a substantial dental burden and intricate medical-geriatric conditions interlinked among Indigenous older adults in a rural Chilean Mapuche community. The implementation of a geriatric technological ecosystem in the community enabled the resolution of less complex oral health issues and facilitated remote consultations with specialists, reducing the necessity for travel to health centers. This underscores the need for innovative dental public health initiatives to address health disparities and improve the overall well-being of older Indigenous adults.

Evaluation of Primary and Secondary Stability of Endosseous Dental Implants With and Without the Use of Platelet-Rich Fibrin: A Clinical Study.

This clinical study investigates platelet-rich fibrin's (PRF) impact on dental implant stability, addressing global oral health challenges and limitations of traditional methods. Emphasizing osseointegration's pivotal role, the study explores PRF's potential in enhancing implant stability, assessing it through resonance frequency analysis (RFA) and implant stability quotient (ISQ). The hypothesis suggests PRF may improve both primary and secondary stability, aiming to uncover clinical benefits in dental implant procedures Materials and methods: The study involved 24 subjects from the Department of Periodontics outpatient clinics with a meticulously designed methodology. This included a pre-surgical protocol with oral prophylaxis, impressions, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) analysis. PRFpreparation utilized a minimally invasive venipuncture technique. Implant placement followed a two-stage surgical protocol, assessing primary stability with MEGA ISQ (Ostell). Post-surgery, patients received instructions and underwent recall for secondary stability after three months. Clinical parameterssuch as plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), implant probing pocket depth (IPPD), sulcus bleeding index (SBI), and implant stability (IS)were systematically recorded. Robust statistical analyses, usingIBM SPSS Statistics for Windows v20.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, USA) software, incorporated Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests for group and within-time point comparisons, with a significance level of p<0.05. This comprehensive study yields nuanced insights into the impact of PRF and implant procedures on key clinical parameters, contributing significantly to the field. This study compared dental implants with and without PRFin 24 patients. Both groups showed significant improvements in the PI, GI, and SBI. The PRF group exhibited higher ISin the third and sixth months, while IPPDwas lower in the PRF group in the sixth month. The findings of the study highlight a positive impact on implant stability contributing to better implant outcomes.

A review of oral health promotion programmes in Eastern Mediterranean Region

Background: Oral health conditions, such as dental caries, periodontal disease, tooth loss, dental fluorosis, dental trauma, and oral cancer, are prevalent in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region. However, there has been no systematic review of oral health promotion interventions in the region. Aims: To review existing literature on oral health promotion programmes in the Eastern Mediterranean Region and recommend improvements for the future. Method: We reviewed on PubMed and Google Scholar 61 articles published in the Eastern Mediterranean Region between 2010 and 2023. Quality assessment of included studies was performed using established criteria. We used the content analysis approach to create appropriate themes from the studies and to document meaningful conclusions about oral health promotion. Results: Majority of the studies were cross-sectional, a few were randomized controlled, quasi-experimental, longitudinal studies, or reviews. Oral health problems identified included poor oral health knowledge, dental caries, periodontal disease, tooth loss, dental fluorosis, and oral cancer. Although oral disorders were common in most of the countries, very few have implemented oral health promotion programmes. Conclusion: We recommend prioritization of oral health promotion programmes in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to tackle the diverse oral health challenges. To be effective, such programmes should be region- and context-specific. More studies on oral health promotion are needed in the region.

Clinical Efficacy of Extracellular Vesicle Therapy in Periodontitis: Reduced Inflammation and Enhanced Regeneration.

Periodontitis, a prevalent inflammatory condition, affects the supporting structures of teeth, leading to significant oral health challenges. Traditional treatments have primarily focused on mechanical debridement, antimicrobial therapy, and surgery, which often fail to restore lost periodontal structures. Emerging as a novel approach in regenerative medicine, extracellular vesicle (EV) therapy, including exosomes, leverages nano-sized vesicles known for facilitating intercellular communication and modulating physiological and pathological processes. This study is a proof-of-concept type that evaluates the clinical efficacy of EV therapy as a non-surgical treatment for stage I-III periodontitis, focusing on its anti-inflammatory and regenerative potential. The research involved seven patients undergoing the therapy, and seven healthy individuals. Clinical parameters, including the plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing depth, and attachment level, were assessed alongside cytokine levels in the gingival crevicular fluid. The study found significant improvements in clinical parameters, and a marked reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines post-treatment, matching the levels of healthy subjects, underscoring the therapy's ability to not only attenuate inflammation and enhance tissue regeneration, but also highlighting its potential in restoring periodontal health. This investigation illuminates the promising role of EV therapy in periodontal treatment, advocating for a shift towards therapies that halt disease progression and promote structural and functional restoration of periodontal tissues.

Analyzing Oral Health Conditions in Sex Workers-A Comparative Retrospective Clinical and Radiographic Study.

This study highlights the oral health condition of female sex workers (SWs), who face increased risks associated with habits such as excessive alcohol and tobacco use. These behaviors heighten the likelihood of issues like oral cancer and dental diseases, underscoring the need for targeted health interventions. The study examines the oral health disparities between SWs and the general population (GP). A retrospective study analyzed the health records of 40 SWs and 40 controls matched by age and gender who were examined between 1 January 2020 and 30 May 2023. Intra-oral and panoramic radiographs, alongside clinical examination, were used to evaluate missing teeth, periodontal bone support, and caries. T-tests and chi-square tests were used to compare dental health indicators. A comparative analysis of these 80 patients revealed significant disparities: SWs had a higher incidence of missing teeth (5.8 ± 7.3 vs. 0.7 ± 1.4, p < 0.01) and caries (6.1 ± 6.2 vs. 0.8 ± 1.2, p < 0.05) compared to the GP. The DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth) index was notably higher in SWs (16.1 ± 8.09) than in the GP (7.95 ± 5.48, p < 0.001). Additionally, 12% of SWs used removable dentures, unlike the GP. This study underscores significant oral health challenges in SWs, emphasizing the need for targeted healthcare strategies to improve their health conditions.

Effectiveness of Oral Health Education and Interventions in Improving Oral Health Outcomes in Type II Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Prospective Study.

Introduction Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of oral health education and intervention in improving oral health outcomes in type 2 DM (T2DM) patients. Methods The present study was conducted in the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology between February 2023 and August 2023 at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals in Chennai, India. All of the patients in the study had T2DM with oral manifestations. This study enrolled 105 participants, of whom 63 were female and 42 were male. A standard pro forma was given to all the participants, and the findings were recorded. The pro forma comprises different oral manifestations, blood glucose levels, the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index, and Russell's periodontal index. The results were then statistically analyzed. Results This study of 105 individuals with T2DM (60% females and 40% males) revealed significant oral health challenges: 33% had periodontitis, 20% had gingivitis, 5% had lichenoid reactions, 23% had xerostomia, 11% had halitosis, and 8% had candidiasis, illustrating diabetes' impact on dental health. Following appropriate, tailor-made treatment for individual patients, such as scaling, root planning, oral hygiene education, pharmacotherapy, and post-intervention, the prevalence of complications notably decreased by 61%. A total of 7% of patients had gingivitis, 11% had periodontitis, 12% had xerostomia, 4% had halitosis, 2% had candidiasis, and 1% had lichenoid reactions, respectively. This highlights the importance of regular oral care positively impacting diabetes patients, with 61% experiencing improved oral health and 39% experiencing no improvement. Conclusion This study provides compelling evidence for the effectiveness of oral health education and interventions in improving oral health outcomes in T2DM patients. This approach offers a promising strategy for managing the oral health complications associated with diabetes and improving this population's overall health and well-being.