Oral Hygiene Aids Research Articles

Effectiveness of a toothbrushing intervention utilizing puzzle-solving game assisted with visual aids among adolescents: A single-blind randomized controlled trial

BackgroundMaintaining good oral hygiene through effective toothbrushing is crucial for preventing dental issues in adolescents. Conventional oral health education (OHE) and video demonstration approach are passive means of OHE, that often fail to engage this age group. This study introduced an innovative approach to OHE by combining jigsaw puzzle and visual aids to improve oral health outcomes among adolescents.ObjectiveTo assess the effectiveness of Jigsaw Puzzle-assisted Visual Reinforcement (JPVR) technique on toothbrushing knowledge, practices, and clinical oral health parameters compared to conventional OHE and video demonstration among adolescents.Material and methodsThis single-blind randomized controlled trial involved 195 adolescents aged 12-15 years randomly allocated to three groups: conventional OHE (control), video demonstration and JPVR. Interventions were administered, and assessments were carried out at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months. Prior to the start of the study, the oral hygiene aids used were standardized. Outcomes were measured using a self-designed, validated closed-ended questionnaire to assess the toothbrushing knowledge and practices. This was followed by clinical examination carried out using gingival and plaque indices by a blinded examiner.ResultsAt baseline, groups had comparable knowledge, practices, and clinical parameters. At 3 months, the JPVR group demonstrated significantly higher knowledge, better practices, lower plaque, and reduced gingival scores compared to other groups.ConclusionsThe JPVR technique improved toothbrushing knowledge, practices, and clinical oral health parameters among adolescents. This approach fostered active learning and knowledge retention and is a cost-effective strategy for promoting positive oral health outcomes among children.

A Questionnaire Based Study on Awareness of Sanitization of Tooth Brushes in Indian Population and Their Disinfection with an Oral Hygiene Aid Sterilizer: A Clinical and In-Vitro Study.

Abstract: Oral diseases are a major public health concern, owing to their high prevalence and their relationship with systemic health. Oral health maintenance can only be accomplished with proper tooth brushing & tongue cleaning. Toothbrushes are kept in places which is a hub of contaminants. They should be correctly stored, disinfected and changed at regular intervals. Aims: Our study focuses on awareness of disinfection of toothbrushes among general population and invention of a newer device that not only keeps the toothbrush moisture free but also germ free: Oral Hygiene Aid Sterilizer (OHA-S). Methods and Material: A cross sectional questionnaire based study of sample size 100 was conducted in which samples were randomly selected and distributed with a questionnaire form. All the study participants were asked to brush their teeth with the tooth brush provided. After brushing, the contaminated bristles were disinfected in the newer device: OHA-S and were observed under phase contrast microscope. Statistical analysis used: Randomized control trial Results: Survey results showed that 61% of general population was unaware of sanitization of toothbrushes. The remaining being aware, almost 72% did not perform sanitization on daily basis. Also, there was a significant decrease in microbial flora of the bristles which were sanitized using OHA-S when observed under the phase contrast microscope Conclusions: As majority of population failed at sanitizing oral hygiene aids daily, OHA-S was effective in not only making the oral hygiene aids moisture free but also in reducing the amount of microbial load which is the main causative factor for periodontal diseases .

Innovations in oral hygiene tools: a mini review on recent developments

BackgroundThis review examines advancements in oral hygiene aids and their impact on gingival and periodontal health. As periodontal diseases are widespread, effective hygiene is vital. Enhancements in traditional tools and innovations have improved oral hygiene status. Clinical evidence confirms these innovations improve gingival and periodontal health, though proper use and patient adherence are crucial.MethodologyA comprehensive literature search was conducted using MeSH terms like “Gingivitis/prevention & control*”, “Dental Plaque/prevention & control*”, “Dentifrices”, “Electrical Equipment and Supplies*”, “Toothbrushing”, “Equipment Design”, “Anti-Infective Agents/therapeutic use”, “Oils, Volatile/therapeutic use”, “Dental Devices, Home Care”, “Dentifrices*/therapeutic use”, “Vibration”, “Gingivitis*/drug therapy”, “Gingivitis*/prevention & control”, “Gingival Hemorrhage/prevention & control”, “Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology”, “Chlorhexidine/pharmacology”, “Mouthwashes/pharmacology”, “Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology”, “Mouthwashes/therapeutic use”, “Anti-Infective Agents, Local*/therapeutic use”, “Mouthwashes/chemistry*”, “Plant Extracts/therapeutic use*”, “Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate/therapeutic use*”, “Treatment Outcome”, “Oral Hygiene/methods”, “Toothpastes/therapeutic use*”, “Hyaluronic Acid/therapeutic use”, “Chronic Periodontitis*/therapy”, “Periodontal Attachment Loss/therapy”, “Probiotics*/therapeutic use”, “Oral Hygiene*”, “Periodontal Index” and so on. This search utilized PubMed and Google Scholar, restricted to English-language publications from 2018 to 2024. The screening process involved reviewing titles, abstracts, and keywords, focusing on randomized clinical trials only. Inclusion criteria focused on novel innovations in conventional oral hygiene methodologies. A total of 86 randomized clinical trial articles met the inclusion criteria.ResultsRecent innovations in traditional oral hygiene tools have markedly enhanced oral hygiene levels and patient compliance. These newer innovations demonstrate substantial efficacy in plaque control and gingival health. Clinical outcomes underscore their pivotal role in improving oral hygiene standards, promoting reduced gingivitis and enhanced patient adherence to oral care regimens.ConclusionAdvanced oral hygiene aids significantly improve gingival and periodontal health. However, patient adherence and correct usage are crucial for their optimal performance. Incorporating advanced oral hygiene aids into daily practices is essential for achieving optimal periodontal health, and continuous education is necessary to ensure their effective use.

Perception of Caregivers about Oral Health Services for Institutionalized Older Adults: A Mixed Method Study.

In India, the absence of formal training in geriatric dentistry and the lack of recognition of it as a speciality contributes to the deterioration of oral health in the older adults. India lacks specific oral healthcare policies for older adults. Additionally, caregivers' perspective in old age homes regarding oral healthcare services remains underexplored, necessitating further studies in this context. A mixed method study was conducted, and the quantitative component focused on assessing the oral health status of institutionalized older adults and caregivers' perceptions using a questionnaire. The qualitative part evaluates caregivers' perceptions of providing oral healthcare services for older adults through in-depth interviews. Mean DMFT among institutionalized older adults was 15.52±8.23. More than 50% of caregivers perceived that the oral health status of institutionalized older adults was fair. Barriers to oral health services include autonomy, difficulty in traveling, lack of financial support, lack of knowledge and time. Approaches to enhancing oral health services for institutionalized older adults include oral health education for older adults and their caregivers, monthly dental visits to the institution, utilization of portable dental chair services, collaboration with dental colleges/dental clinics, distribution of oral health education materials, and provision of oral hygiene aids. Findings from our study indicate the need to collaborate with dental institutions to provide oral health services in old age homes, to improve the oral health status of older adults and caregivers' knowledge.

Oral Irrigation Devices: A Scoping Review.

Self-performed oral hygiene is essential for preventing dental caries, periodontal, and peri-implant diseases. Oral irrigators are adjunctive oral home care aids that may benefit oral health. However, the effects of oral irrigation on oral health, its role in oral home care, and its mechanism of action are not fully understood. A comprehensive search of the literature revealed no existing broad scoping reviews on oral irrigators. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a comprehensive systematic review of the literature on oral irrigation devices and identify evidence gaps. The Joanna Briggs Institute and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines were utilized to prepare the review. Four databases and eight gray literature sources were searched for English publications across any geographical location or setting. Two hundred and seventy-five sources were included, predominantly from scientific journals and academic settings. Most studies originated from North America. Research primarily involved adults, with limited studies in children and adolescents. Oral irrigation was safe and well-accepted when used appropriately. It reduced periodontal inflammation, potentially by modulating the oral microbiota, but further research needs to clarify its mechanism of action. Promising results were reported in populations with dental implants and special needs. Patient acceptance appeared high, but standardized patient-reported outcome measures were rarely used. Anti-inflammatory benefits occurred consistently across populations and irrigant solutions. Plaque reduction findings were mixed, potentially reflecting differences in study designs and devices. Oral irrigators reduce periodontal inflammation, but their impact on plaque removal remains unclear. Well-designed, sufficiently powered trials of appropriate duration need to assess the clinical, microbiological, and inflammatory responses of the periodontium to oral irrigation, particularly those with periodontitis, dental implants, and special needs. Patient-reported outcome measures, costs, caries prevention, and environmental impact of oral irrigation need to be compared to other oral hygiene aids.

Reason for Preference of Toothpaste among Buyers – A Cross-sectional Survey

Abstract Background: The most efficient method to prevent dental disease is by maintaining proper oral hygiene. The most commonly and widely used oral hygiene aids are toothbrush and toothpaste. This questionnaire aims to assess, analyze, and associate the reason for preference of toothpaste among buyers. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1022 participants. A combined 12 questionnaire (open and close ended) was framed along with demographic data and distributed through Google Forms. It was validated for content validity and reliability. The data were compiled and subjected to descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. Results: Among 1022 participants, 48.6% participants choose their toothpaste by themselves and they were not using toothpaste according to their oral problems. Only 6% use dentist-recommended toothpaste and 57.7% choose low-cost toothpastes. There was a poor significant association between the preference of toothpaste and their purpose or oral problem with P < 0.05. Conclusion: Even though there are different kinds of toothpaste available in the market according to oral health problem people still does not consider it important still choose toothpaste based on interest and choice. Less consumers use dentist-recommended toothpaste.

The effectiveness of water jet flossing and interdental flossing for oral hygiene in orthodontic patients with fixed appliances: a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundOrthodontic treatment presents challenges with plaque accumulation around brackets, archwires, and elastics, leading to retained plaque and gingival inflammation. Conventional toothbrushing may not be enough, requiring additional oral hygiene aids like interproximal brushes, dental flosses, and water flossers. Limited research exists on comparing water flossing and interdental flossing in orthodontic patients. Therefore, this study aims to assess their effectiveness in maintaining oral hygiene during active orthodontic treatment.MethodsA single-blind, randomized, parallel clinical study recruited orthodontic patients with full-mouth brackets and archwires. Thirty participants were randomly assigned to either water jet flossing or interdental flossing groups. All participants were instructed to brush twice daily with a provided toothbrush and toothpaste and use the assigned intervention once daily at night. Clinical measures, including the Gingival Bleeding Index (BI), Plaque Index (PI), and Gingival Index (GI), were recorded at baseline and day 14. Descriptive statistics and statistical tests were performed using SPSS software.ResultsThe water jet flossing group demonstrated a slightly higher, albeit non-significant, benefit in plaque removal (median difference of 6.79%%, P = 0.279) and bleeding reduction (median difference of 5.21%%, P = 0.172) compared to the interdental flossing group after two weeks. Both groups showed significant reductions in gingival bleeding index and plaque index from baseline to the 2-week follow-up. The interdental flossing group had median mean percentage differences of 16.13%% (plaque index) and 23.57% (gingival bleeding index), while the water jet flossing group had median percentage differences of 21.87% (plaque index) and 32.29% (gingival bleeding index). No significant changes in gingival index grades were observed in either group.ConclusionBoth water jet flossing and interdental flossing were effective in reducing plaque accumulation and gingival bleeding among orthodontic patients. While no significant differences were found between the two methods, water jet flossing showed a potential advantage. Further research is needed to validate its effectiveness, assess long-term impact, and understand its benefits for orthodontic patients.

A systematic review of the association between food insecurity and behaviours related to caries development in adults and children in high-income countries.

To synthesize and appraise the evidence regarding the relationship between food insecurity and behaviours associated with dental caries development in adults and children in high-income countries. A systematic review including observational studies assessing the association between food insecurity and selected dietary (free sugar consumption) and non-dietary factors (tooth brushing frequency; use of fluoridated toothpaste; dental visiting; oral hygiene aids; type of toothbrush used; interdental cleaning frequency and mouthwash use) related to dental caries development in adults and children in high-income countries. Studies specifically looking at food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic were excluded. Searches were performed in MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health and Scopus from inception to 25 May 2023. Two authors screened the search results, extracted data and appraised the studies independently and in duplicate. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (with modifications for cross-sectional studies). Vote counting and harvest plots provided the basis for evidence synthesis. Searches identified 880 references, which led to the inclusion of 71 studies with a total of 526 860 participants. The majority were cross-sectional studies, conducted in the USA and reported free sugar consumption. Evidence for the association between food insecurity and free sugar intake from 4 cohort studies and 61 cross-sectional studies including 336 585 participants was equivocal, particularly in the sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption post-hoc subgroup, where 20 out of 46 studies reported higher SSB consumption in food insecure individuals. There was consistent, but limited, evidence for reduced dental visiting in adults experiencing food insecurity compared to food secure adults from 3 cross-sectional studies including 52 173 participants. The relationship between food insecurity and dental visiting in children was less clear (3 cross-sectional studies, 138 102 participants). A single cross-sectional study of 3275 children reported an association between food insecurity and reported failure to toothbrush the previous day. This review did not identify clear associations between food insecurity and behaviours commonly implicated in the development of dental caries that would explain why individuals experiencing food insecurity are more likely to have dental caries than those who have food security. There was some evidence of decreased dental visiting in adults experiencing food insecurity. Common methodological weaknesses across the evidence base related to the selection of participants or control of potentially confounding variables. Consequently, the quality of evidence for all outcomes was downgraded to very low. More research is needed to explore access to oral hygiene products and household environments conducive to habitual oral self-care in food insecure populations.

Oral health assessment and treatment needs of 12- and 15-year-old children residing in tribal welfare and private hostels - A comparative study.

Oral health is an integral part of general health. Providing oral health care facilities and creating awareness about the oral health problem in under-served children and communities may lead to a better oral-health-related quality of life of the individual. The present study aims to assess and compare the oral health status and treatment needs of 12- and 15-year-old children residing in tribal welfare hostels and other private hostels of Bhopal district, Madhya Pradesh. The present descriptive cross-sectional study consisted of a total sample size of 800 children, 400 in each group (tribal welfare hostel and private hostel groups). Oral health status and treatment needs were assessed using World Health Organization proforma 1997. Oral health behavior including health of teeth and gums, oral hygiene aids, brushing frequency, consumption of sweets in between meals, and present general and oral health was assessed. Utilization of dental services was also assessed using a pre-designed questionnaire, which was completed by the study participants. Statistical analysis was carried out using Chi-square test. Significant differences were noted between the groups in regarding oral health behaviors and visit to a dentist during the past 12 months (P = 0.002*), which were lower in tribal children. Tribal children were having higher dental fluorosis as compared to the private hostel children (P = 0.043*). Decay in permanent teeth (P = 0.006*) and missing of permanent teeth (P = 0.05*) were higher among tribal children. The present study revealed a poor oral health status and treatment needs of tribal children. Tribal children were having higher dental fluorosis as compared to the private hostel children. Decay in permanent teeth and missing of permanent teeth were higher among tribal children. Oral health behaviors and utilization of dental services were lower in tribal children. Good oral health has a definitive influence on general health and thus contributes to self-image and social interaction.

Effectiveness of Moringa oleifera Mouthwash in Young Adults as an Anti Plaque Agent – An Interventional Study

Background: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the oral cavity’s supportive structures, including gums and surrounding bone. Herbal mouthwashes have phytopharmacological agents such as Moringa oleifera (MO), and the use of herbal mouthwash has increased. Moringa mouthwash has potential for oral health due to its biocompatibility and anti-inflammatory effect. This study compares the effect of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) and moringa mouthwash on plaque and its reduction. Methodology: The in vitro tests included the determination of minimum inhibitory concentration using broth dilution and agar diffusion. This interventional study included 25 individuals with more than 1 plaque score. The study was conducted for 2 months with a washout period of 2 weeks between the use of both mouthwashes. The Quigley–Hein Plaque Index of the study subjects was recorded at the designated baseline and after 28 days of use throughout the study period. The statistical test used was the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and the level of significance was considered to be <0.05. Results: The results showed that the reduction in the mean plaque scores from baseline to day 28 was statistically significant in the moringa-based mouthwash. Similarly, the index scores showed a statistically significant reduction following the use of the moringa-based mouthwash when compared with the gold-standard chlorhexidine mouthwash with P = 0.00. The comparison showed that MO offered the same improvement as CHX. Conclusion: The current study aimed to provide an insight role of MO mouthwash as a possible adjunctive oral hygiene aid and its inhibitory effect on plaque reduction when compared to CHX.

Combined Efficacy of Advanced Oral Hygiene Aids and Active Reminders in Maintaining the Oral Hygiene of Patients with Fixed Orthodontic Appliances: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Objectives To evaluate the efficacy of water irrigating devices, powered toothbrushes, and active repeated oral hygiene reminders on oral hygiene of fixed orthodontic patients. Materials and Methods This was a randomized, examiner-blind clinical trial involving fixed orthodontic appliance patients. Patients were recruited within six months of bonding on both the arches. Eighty patients were randomly assigned to four groups; groups 1 and 3 subjects received standard oral hygiene procedures and used manual orthodontic toothbrushes, and subjects in groups 2 and 4 used powered toothbrushes and water irrigators for oral hygiene maintenance during the study period. In addition, repeated oral hygiene reminders via SMS were sent to subjects in groups 1 and 2, whereas groups 3 and 4 subjects received only oral motivation. The principal investigator assessed the plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI) at baseline (T0) and after 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks, that is, T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively. Results Group 2 and group 4 subjects showed statistically significant reduction in PI ( p < .001) and GI ( p < .001) scores at the end of study interval; however, the magnitude of decrease was less in group 4 in comparison to group 2. Intergroup comparisons between group 1 versus group 3 and group 2 versus group 4 were made to evaluate the efficacy of reminders. Statistically significant reduction was observed in group 2 as compared to group 4 at T4 ( p < .001) when compared to T1 ( p < .87). Conclusion Using powered toothbrushes and oral irrigators resulted in a statistically more significant reduction in plaque and gingivitis scores than conventional procedures. Active reminders had a catalytic effect in improving the oral hygiene.

The effects of scaling and root planing plus home oral hygiene maintenance in Stage I/II periodontitis population: A 24-week randomized clinical trial.

To compare the effects of powered and manual toothbrushing following scaling and root planing on bleeding on probing and other clinical indicators of periodontitis. This was a randomized, examiner-blind, parallel-design, 24-week clinical study. Eligible subjects were 18-75 years of age with Stage I or II periodontitis. All subjects received scaling and root planing (SRP) within 28 days of enrollment. Thereafter, subjects were randomized to twice daily at-home use of either a powered toothbrush (PTB) or a manual toothbrush (MTB). Randomization was balanced for gender and periodontitis stage. No other oral hygiene aids were permitted. Subjects were evaluated every 4 weeks for the following measures: bleeding on probing (BOP), surface plaque (MPI), probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level until Week 24. Of 328 randomized subjects, 299 subjects completed the study. For BOP at Week 24, the Least Squares (LS) Mean, standard error (SE) reduction from baseline was 0.24 (0.01) for the PTB group and 0.02 (0.01) for the MTB group, resulting in a statistically significant treatment difference of 0.22 (0.01), p-value < 0.0001. There were also concomitant reductions in MPI and PPD at Week 24, resulting in statistically significant (p-value < 0.0001) LS Mean (SE) treatment differences of 0.86 (0.04) and 0.24 (0.01), for MPI and PPD, respectively. When combined with SRP, daily home oral hygiene maintenance including a powered toothbrush significantly reduced clinical symptoms of periodontitis and surface plaque levels compared to a manual toothbrush in a Stage I/II periodontitis population. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04254770).

Gingivitis and Toothbrush Contamination

ral diseases can be controlled by reducing the microbial count in the oral cavity and this can be achieved by maintaining proper oral hygiene. Toothbrushes are the most commonly used oral hygiene aid to prevent the dental and other oral diseases. To evaluate the association between gingivitis and contamination statues of toothbrush, effectiveness of disinfectants and d uration of using the toothbrushes. The study was conducted on 63 patients and their toothbrushes. Gingival status of participants were evaluated by measuring the gingival index then the patients were asked about the duration of using his/her toothbrush and asked to bring his toothbrush for assessment of contamination status with regards to(Staphylococcus aureus) as well as for evaluation of efficacy of two types of disinfectants. The toothbrush samples were collected and subjected to quantitative assay of microorganisms. The efficacy of chlorhexidine (0.2%) and sodium hypochloride (1%) were assessed at 1, 2 and 3 hours. The data were compared by using student T test, ANOVA and LCD test and t- test. The gingival in dex was higher with patients using the toothbrushes for longer duration, the S.aureus was isolated from all tooth brushes as well as the degree of contamination was increased with increased the duration of use. The chlorhexidine and sodium hypochloride were effective in decontamination of toothbrushes but their efficacy was reduced with increasing the period of using the toothbrush. The gingivitis might be exacerbated by prolong using of toothbrushes, contamination correlated directly with duration of using the toothbrushes and efficacy of disinfectant inversely correlated to duration of use.

Mechanical plaque removal in step-1 of care.

Maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine is essential for taking care of our mouths, ensuring healthy teeth, and achieving fresh breath. Patient education on oral hygiene is an important component of their overall treatment. Firstly, patients should be informed about the direct connection between bacteria in dental plaque and oral diseases. It is important for patients to understand that these conditions can be treated, but the success of treatment greatly depends on their level of oral hygiene. This journey begins by selecting the appropriate toothbrush and mastering the correct brushing technique to effectively remove dental plaque while avoiding any potential damage to the gums. In addition to toothbrushes, there are other devices available for comprehensive dental cleaning, such as floss, interdental sticks, interdental brushes, and oral irrigators. These aids are particularly beneficial for eliminating dental plaque from hard-to-reach areas. Moreover, tongue brushing or tongue scraping can effectively reduce breath odor and tongue coating. Currently, self-care recommendations for dental implants are primarily based on existing knowledge regarding natural teeth cleaning. Evidence-based recommendations are derived from comprehensive systematic evaluation of various oral hygiene aids.

Impact of periodontitis on oral health-related quality of life of patients with psoriatic arthritis.

Since oral health issues can have a negative influence on a person's physical functioning, social status, and wellbeing, oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) becomes an indispensable part of overall health. Previous published studies report that periodontitis (PD) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) have a significant negative impact on OHRQoL. Based on these findings, it would be reasonable to assume that patients with coexisting PsA and PD would see a comparable or maybe synergistic effect on their OHRQoL. Hence, the aim of the present study is to evaluate the OHRQoL and its impact among subjects with concurrent PsA and PD. The present study was a comparative, cross-sectional investigation. A total of 200 participants were categorized into four groups- PD-PsA (n=50), PsA (n=50), PD (n=50), and healthy controls (n=50). Demographic data and periodontal parameters-plaque index, sites with gingival bleeding, probing pocket depth, gingival recession, and clinical attachment level were recorded for all the four groups. Number of mobile teeth due to periodontitis was recorded for the PSA-PD and PD groups. OHIP-14 questionnaire was administered to all the four groups. Collected data was then subjected to statistical analysis. The severity of OHIP-14 summary scores was highest in the PsA-PD group (18.06±11.22) followed by the PD group (17.02±9.99) and lowest in the healthy group (6.32±5.59) (p<.0001). The scores of all the domains- oral pain, oral function, orofacial appearance and psychological impact were highest among the PsA-PD group followed by the PD group (p<.0001). The combined interaction of PsA and PD on the OHRQoL was statistically significant (F=6.33, p=.012). Results of the multiple linear regression analysis indicated that there was a moderate collective significant effect between age, past dental visit, frequency of daily tooth brushing, use of other oral hygiene aids, and OHIP-14 (F(3,196)=13.08, p<.001, R2=0.17, adjusted R2=0.15). The negative impact on OHRQoL was highest in the patients with concurrent presence of PD with PsA followed by those with PD alone. While the summary scores and dimensional scores of OHIP-14 were insignificant when patients with PsA-PD and PD alone were compared, these scores were significantly higher in patients with PsA-PD than patients with PsA alone.

Knowledge on Oral Hygiene Maintenance of Children Aged 6 to 9 Years Attending at the OPD of a Tertiary Care Dental Hospital in Dhaka City

Background: Knowledge from pre-primary school about the prevention of dental caries is better before the disease process has starte. Objective: The purpose of this study was to observe the knowledge of oral health maintenance among the children of 6 to 9 years old such as regular tooth brushing, uses of oral hygiene aids and dental attendance to maintain their good oral health for a life time. Methodology: This cross-sectional study conducted in Dhaka Dental College and Hospital, Bangladesh study was carried out from October 2019 to September 2020. A total of 175 participants children aged 6-9 years attending at the OPD with dental Caries in Dhaka Dental College Hospital were the study population. The study population were Included Children aged 6 to 9 years in Dhaka dental college and hospital who were available and wished to participate. The questionnaire was used in this study pre-tested before the data collection, data was collected using semi-structured questionnaire by face-to-face interview. Results: A total of 175 participants children aged 6 to 9 years attending at the OPD with dental Caries in Dhaka Dental College Hospital were the study population. The knowledge according to the correct method of tooth brushing to keep healthy teeth which were significant with their age and education. The study revealed the knowledge according to the correct method of tooth brushing to keep healthy teeth which were not significant among both gender (P=0.000038) and level of education (P=0.00001). The knowledge according to cleaning teeth and mouth after each meal to keep healthy teeth which were significant only with their age (P=0.00027) and same as knowledge according the to relation of food or drinks with healthy teeth which were significant with their age(P=0 .00729) and education significant level (P=0.001185), the knowledge according to poor oral health causes of dental problem which were significant with their education level (P=0.002524) and knowledge to the necessity of dental check-up at least once in year which were significant with their age(P=0.04237) and education level (P=0.002524). Conclusion: In conclusion, it is found that a significant association between the education level and age of children have good knowledge of oral health hygiene to prevent dental caries among the young children who are more prone to develop the diseases. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Microbiology, January 2023;17 (1):15-20

A Comparative Evaluation of Flax Seed and Coconut Oil Pulling Therapy on Plaque-Induced Gingivitis: A Preliminary Report

Oil pulling is a traditional shown promising result in controlling bleeding and reducing inflammation of periodontium. Hence, the present study was aimed to compare and evaluate the efficacy of flax seed and coconut oil as an anti-inflammatory agent with chlorhexidine gluconate in the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis. The randomized controlled clinical trial involved 45 participants divided into three groups, each with 15 participants. Clinical parameters like Plaque index (PI), Gingival index (GI), Sulcular Bleeding Index (SBI) were assessed at baseline, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software 22.0. Results showed a significant decrease in pre- and post-treatment clinical parameters, indicating that flax seed and coconut oil pulling used as adjunctive oral hygiene aids were effectively decreased plaque formation and gingivitis.

Impact of smartphone application ‘Dent-O-Xpert’ on oral health related knowledge, attitude and behavior of young adults – A randomized control trial

BackgroundMaintaining optimal oral health requires a combination of knowledge, awareness, and consistent behavioral practices. Smartphone technology has revolutionized various aspects of modern life, including healthcare. The widespread smartphone usage in India offers an opportunity to study its positive influence on oral health behaviors. Aimto assess the impact of smartphone application “Dent-O-Xpert” on oral health-related knowledge, attitude, and behavior among young adults. MethodsThe randomized double-blind controlled trial involved 168 young adults aged 18–25 from professional institutions in Indore, India. The intervention group received oral health education through “Dent-O-Xpert” smartphone application with educational content, interactive modules, reminders and personalized recommendations, while the control group received traditional oral health sessions. Primary outcome measure including knowledge, attitude, behavior, and oral hygiene were evaluated through validated questionnaires and clinical examinations at baseline, 1 month, and 2 months. The data were analyzed using SPSS-23. ResultsThe Dent-O-Xpert group showed significantly improved oral health knowledge scores at both follow-ups. By second follow-up visit, both plaque and oral hygiene scores were significantly reduced in Dent-O-Xpert group (0.25 ± 0.4) compared to control group (0.71 ± 0.48). Tooth-brushing frequency (96.4 %), brushing techniques (59.5 %), timely toothbrush changes (97.6 %), and use of supplementary oral hygiene aids (31–35.7 %) improved in the Dent-O-Xpert group. Attitudes toward oral health care were also more positive in this group. No significant changes in oral health behavior and attitude were observed in the control group. Conclusionthe study findings indicate that Dent-O-Xpert smartphone application is effective in improving the oral health related knowledge, attitude and behavior.

Comparison of the Efficacy of Different Oral Hygiene Aids in Maintaining Periodontal Health in Patients With Gingivitis.

Background Gingivitis is a common oral health condition characterized by inflammation of the gingiva, which, if left untreated, can progress to more severe forms of periodontal disease. Effective oral hygiene practices play a crucial role in managing gingivitis, but the comparative efficacy of different oral hygiene aids remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of various oral hygiene aids in maintaining periodontal health in patients with gingivitis, considering gender and the degree of gingivitis as potential influencing factors. Methods A total of 120 participants with gingivitis were enrolled in this study. The participants were randomly assigned to one of four groups, each utilizing a different oral hygiene aid: Group A (toothbrush), Group B (electric toothbrush), Group C (brushing along with the use of an interdental brush), and Group D (brushing along with the use of a water flosser). All participants received toothpaste for use with their respective oral hygiene aids. Periodontal health parameters, including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding on probing (BOP) score, were assessed at baseline and after a specified duration of oral hygiene intervention. Also, the microbial count for Streptococcus, Actinomyces, Porphyromonas, Fusobacterium, and Veillonella species was evaluated. Results No significant differences in periodontal health outcomes were observed between males and females in any of the oral hygiene aid groups. Similarly, no significant differences were found among the mild, moderate, and severe gingivitis groups within each oral hygiene aid group. The microbial count also has no statistical significance except for streptococcus species. These findings indicate that the efficacy of the tested oral hygiene aids was comparable across genders and different degrees of gingivitis. Conclusion The findings of this study suggest that the tested oral hygiene aids were effective in maintaining periodontal health in patients with gingivitis, irrespective of gender and the degree of gingivitis. These results have implications for oral healthcare professionals in their recommendations to patients regarding oral hygiene practices. However, it is important to consider the limitations of this study, including the relatively small sample size and the specific oral hygiene aids tested.

Using Promotional Strategies to Increase the Use of Miswak among Teenagers in Saudi Arabia

Miswak is a chewing stick that has been used in Muslim communities across the world for over 1,500 years as an oral hygiene aid. There is evidence to support its clinical effectiveness in plaque management when used alone or in conjunction with a conventional toothbrush. However, evidence of its deleterious effects on periodontal health is equivocal. To study culturally acceptable strategies for promoting oral health practices and preventing illness among adolescents in Saudi Arabia, advertisements were assessed for their ability to engage and open up new communication channels for oral health messages. The aim is to encourage adolescents to adopt the habit of using miswak to improve their oral hygiene, wherever they may be. The data for this study was collected from 116 teenage respondents from Saudi Arabia. The mean age of the study participants was 16.66 ± 0.943 years, with a median age of 17 and a range from 12 to 17. The study included 66 males (56.9%) and 50 females (43.1%). Furthermore, the overall mean assessments of both advertisements were negative due to several problems with the design and use of pictures in the ads. The analysis of this study show that a more standardised method of advertisement is required to properly gain the attention of this generation of adolescents in Saudi Arabia. In addition, the individuals who took part in the research believed that social media is the most suitable venue for conveying messages promoting miswak. To be able to communicate effectively about oral health messaging, one must first have a solid understanding of the advertising messages that are relevant to oral health, as well as the influence of religion. Another prerequisite for the creation of effective advertising is knowledge of media platforms and the impacts that these platforms have on the behaviour of teenagers. Successful communication could make youths in Saudi Arabia likelier to use miswak.