Oral Hygiene Practices Research Articles

Optimizing mHealth Interventions for Children's Oral Hygiene: A Factorial Trial.

Behavioral interventions can improve children's oral hygiene practices. The multiphase optimization strategy (MOST) offers a framework to prepare, optimize, and evaluate behavioral interventions. This optimization trial tested 3 intervention components-brief motivational interviewing (MI), storytelling videos (STVs), and oral health promotion messages (OHPMs)-in enhancing mother's self-reported brushing of their preschool children's teeth. A total of 128 mothers with children <5 y old were included in a 23 factorial trial. The primary outcome was children's plaque accumulation, assessed using the modified Plaque Index of Silness and Löe, with scores ranging from 0 to 3. The secondary outcome was mothers' self-reported frequency of brushing their children's teeth, categorized as at least once daily or less than once daily. Mothers were randomized to 8 experimental conditions based on combinations of on-off levels of the 3 components. Linear regression and generalized linear regression with logit link function were used to assess the impact of the components and their interactions on plaque score and daily toothbrushing after 3 mo. Multiple imputation was used for missing values. The principle of effect hierarchy guided the selection of components for inclusion in the optimized package, giving priority to main effects and 2-way over 3-way interactions. Plaque was reduced from mean = 1.8 at baseline to mean = 1.5 and daily toothbrushing increased from 50.8% to 69.5% after 3 mo. MI led to non-significantly less plaque and non-significantly more daily toothbrushing. Combining OHPMs and STVs together without MI canceled each other. Neither the main effects nor the 2- or 3-way interactions significantly affected the 2 outcomes. Individual or combined components did not significantly reduce plaque or increase daily toothbrushing. MI had the greatest promise for behavior change, and the m-oral health components need modification before they can be combined with MI in a health promotion package.

Technology-enabled anticipatory guidance and peer support in empowering parents to prevent early childhood caries: a randomized controlled trial

IntroductionDental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases of childhood. Early childhood caries (ECC), defined as onset of dental caries before 6 years of age, is preventable and reversible in the early stages with proper interventions. The purpose of the study is to assess the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of technology-enabled anticipatory guidance and peer support in empowering parents to establish good diets, feeding and oral hygiene practices to prevent ECC.Methods and analysisMother-child dyads will be recruited from pre-natal clinics and post-natal wards of a tertiary care hospital in Singapore. The control group will receive conventional oral health education materials while the intervention group will join four rounds of online parent empowerment sessions focusing on anticipatory guidance and peer-support. Mothers will complete a questionnaire and food frequency checklist when their child turns 12, 24 and 36 months; each child will undergo an oral examination at the age of 24 and 36 months. Chi-square tests and two-sample t-tests, or their non-parametric equivalents will be used to compare proportions of children with caries by decayed, missing and filled teeth (dmft) and decayed, missing and filled surfaces (dmfs) scores between groups. Effect sizes and their confidence intervals will be calculated along with number needed to treat. Multivariable analyses will be carried out to assess the effect of the intervention on primary outcomes (caries incidence at 24 and 36 months) and secondary outcomes (including parental efficacy, child’s oral health behaviours and oral hygiene status, quality of life). Cost-effectiveness analyses will also be carried out.Ethics and disseminationThe study was approved by Domain Specific Review Board (DSRB 2024/00244). Results will be published in international peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration numberThe trial was retrospectively registered on ClinicialTrials.gov (NCT06558955) around the time of the commencement of patient recruitment, but prior to the commencement of any intervention.

Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study of Oral Health and Hygiene Practices Among Pregnant Women

Background: Hormonal, vascular, and behavioral changes during pregnancy can negatively impact a woman’s oral health, resulting in conditions such as gingivitis, dental sensitivity, and caries. Although oral health is critical during pregnancy, it remains frequently overlooked. In this study, the oral health status and hygiene practices of pregnant women attending two university hospitals in southern Italy were evaluated. Methods: A cross-sectional cohort study was conducted with 72 pregnant women. Data were collected through an anonymous questionnaire that evaluated oral hygiene habits, dental visits, and oral pathologies, followed by a clinical examination. The examination included the assessment of the Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth (DMFT) index and the Oral Hygiene Index (OHI) scores. Results: Among the participants, 61% were in their 9th month of pregnancy. The mean DMFT score was 7.9, and the mean OHI score was 3.6. Only 19.4% of participants had visited a dentist in the past 6 months, while 97.2% reported brushing their teeth just once per day. Gingival bleeding was reported by 72.2% of the women, and 38.9% experienced dental sensitivity, with both conditions worsening during pregnancy. Conclusions: The need for greater oral hygiene education and regular dental care during pregnancy is highlighted in this study. Integrating oral health maintenance into prenatal care programs is essential for preventing pregnancy-related oral diseases and promoting maternal and fetal well-being.

Childhood obesity, sugar, and Early Childhood Caries: the sweet trap.

What drives our irresistible attraction to foods like chocolate, fries, or a warm apple pie? Sugar intake triggers the brain's dopamine system, creating a sense of reward that unconsciously conditions a preference for foods that satisfy cravings. Over time, this weakens attraction to healthier, low-fat and low-sugar foods. This response shares characteristics with addiction, sparking the concept of "food addiction." For early humans, this reward-driven behaviour was advantageous, motivating them to seek high-calorie foods essential for survival when food was scarce. Today, however, it fuels a global surge in obesity and diabetes the real "killer" of our times. Additionally, a study on fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) found that a sugar-heavy diet reduces sensitivity to sweetness, leading to increased consumption. This phenomenon, like "desensitisation" in humans, suggests that high sugar intake may promote obesity by altering taste perception and reward circuits [May et al., 2019]. The link between sugar-rich diets, obesity, and public health is a critical concern for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the sustainability of the western healthcare system. A 2024 study published in BMJ [Lara-Castor et al., 2024] revealed that from 1990 to 2018, the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) in children and adolescents (aged 3-19) from 185 countries rose by 23%, paralleling a global rise in obesity rates in this age group (Fig. 1). The findings highlighted a range of consumption levels influenced by factors like age, parental education, and urban living; however, the overall increase calls for national and targeted approaches to reduce SSB intake. Exactly like the prevalence of overweight (including obesity) among children and adolescents aged 5-19 has risen dramatically from just 8% in 1990 to 20% in 2022. While just 2% of children and adolescents aged 5-19 was obese in 1990 (31 million young people), by 2022, 8% of children and adolescents were living with obesity (160 million young people) [GBD 2019 Risk Factors Collaborators 2020; Okunogbe et al., 2022] (Fig. 2) [Ritchie and Roser, 2017]. Establishing good habits early is vital, as children are highly receptive to new behaviours. Notably, paediatric prevention begins even in the womb [Paglia 2017; Paglia, 2019]: a 2021 Canadian study [Laforest-Lapointeet al, 2021] linked maternal consumption of artificial sweeteners during pregnancy to an increased risk of infant obesity. By examining the gut microbiomes of 100 infants, researchers found that artificial sweetener intake could influence infant gut health and body mass index in the first year of life. The effects of sugar thus begin before birth and extend into early childhood. In Italy, added sugars are often introduced into infants' diets before 12 months, and delayed oral hygiene practices worsen the risks. Parental obesity further correlates with a higher incidence of Early Childhood Caries (ECC), emphasizing the need to address sugar consumption and health habits from prenatal to early childhood stages [D'oria, Bettocchi et al., 2024] Addressing the roots of obesity and diet-related diseases in young populations is therefore crucial and early intervention is key. In Italy, the government is attempting to curb sugar consumption through the so-called "sugar tax," introduced in the 2020 Budget Law. The tax was initially set to take effect on January 1st, 2021; but was postponed to January 1st, 2022. Then to January 1st, 2023; again to January 1st, 2024, and recently postponed once more to January 1st, 2025…Hoping next year will finally be the one!

Caregivers&amp;apos; Awareness and Behavior Impacting the Oral Health of Pediatric and Adolescent Patients with Disabilities

This study aimed to analyze the dental caries experience and dental care utilization of pediatric and adolescent patients with disabilities, and to investigate the impact of various factors and the role of caregivers on their oral health. Patients aged 4 - 18 years and their caregivers were enrolled. Data on caregivers’ oral health management practices and perceptions, as well as patients’ toothbrushing frequency and use of dental floss, were collected. Clinical examinations measured the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT/dmft) index and plaque index (PI). Among the 141 participants, the most common types of disabilities were autism spectrum disorder (45.4%) and intellectual disabilities (26.2%). Caregivers provided complete assistance with tooth brushing for 49.6% of patients, and 63.8% reported brushing their teeth twice daily. Patients with intellectual and multiple disabilities had a relatively high DMFT/dmft index. A higher level of caregiver assistance during tooth brushing was associated with a lower DMFT/dmft index. Increased frequency of tooth brushing and flossing correlated with lower PI and DMFT/dmft index. The availability of specialized care centers for individuals with disabilities was important for 89.4% when choosing a dental clinic. The main barriers to dental visits were dental anxiety (46.1%) and a lack of specialized dentists (41.8%). Caregiver involvement and regular oral hygiene practices significantly impact the oral health of pediatric and adolescent patients with disabilities. There is a need for specialized care centers, healthcare professionals, and government financial support for the care of patients with disabilities.

Oral hygiene practices in pediatric intensive care units: a scoping review

Objective: To explore and map the literature on oral hygiene (OH) practices in pediatric patients admitted to Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICU). Methods: The Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage methodological framework for scoping reviews was conducted using Pubmed, Bireme, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases. Clinical trials reporting OH practices in PICU and published in English language were included. Non-interventional studies, case reports and studies with neonates, adolescents or adults were excluded from the review. Results: The 11 included studies indicate that OH has been integrated into protocols for the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) or into prevention bundles. The most common agent used for OH in mechanically ventilated children was 0.12% chlorhexidine. There is not enough evidence to support a safe and uniform protocol for OH in children admitted to PICU. Conclusion: A gap regarding OH in non-ventilated children was found in the literature. Further studies are needed to support the development of a uniform, safe, effective and evidence-based OH protocol for children in PICU.

Birth order, daycare attendance, and childhood socioeconomic status in relation to gingivitis: a cross-sectional study in Turkish young adults

AimBirth order, sibship size, breastfeeding, daycare attendance, and delivery method are known to influence the development of gut microbiota and the immune system, affecting the risk of many infectious diseases. This study aims to explore the impact of these factors, along with socioeconomic background and familial factors, on gingivitis and oral hygiene practices in early adulthood among the Turkish population.Materials and methodsPatients were diagnosed using periodontal clinical and radiographic assessments, adhering to the 2017 World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions. The study included 18-year-old individuals diagnosed with either generalized gingivitis or clinical gingival health. Data collected included sociodemographic factors, birth order, sibship size, delivery methods, breastfeeding duration, daycare attendance, and oral hygiene behaviors. Binary logistic regression was employed to analyze the associations between these factors and the presence of generalized gingivitis.ResultsA total of 178 individuals were evaluated, including 124 with generalized gingivitis and 54 with clinical gingival health. Daycare attendance was significantly associated with gingival health. Among those with gingival health, 55.6% had attended daycare, whereas only 29% of participants with generalized gingivitis had attended daycare. Conversely, 71% of those with generalized gingivitis did not attend daycare, compared to 44.4% in the gingival health group (p = 0.001). Univariate logistic regression identified a significant association between daycare attendance and a reduced risk of generalized gingivitis (Odds Ratio [OR] = 0.327, p = 0.001). Later birth order was associated with a reduced risk of gingivitis (OR = 0.470, p = 0.037). Sibship size, delivery methods, and breastfeeding duration showed no clear associations with gingivitis (p > 0.05).ConclusionsThe findings indicate a potential association between oral health status in adulthood and early childhood exposures, such as daycare attendance and birth order. Further research is necessary to confirm these associations and elucidate the mechanisms involved, even though these factors may contribute to gingival health in early adulthood. These insights may enhance our understanding of how early-life exposures relate to oral health outcomes and suggest that considering such factors could be beneficial in future oral health management strategies.Trial registrationTrial registration is also available at clinicaltrail.gov.Clinical Trials-ID: NCT06240247.Registration Date: 22.01.2024.

Assessing the Impact of Community-Based Oral Health Education Programs on Dental Hygiene Practices and Oral Health Outcomes in Rural Populations

ABSTRACT Background: Community-based oral health education programs are essential in improving dental hygiene practices and oral health outcomes, particularly in rural populations where access to dental care is limited. This study assesses the impact of such programs on dental hygiene practices and oral health outcomes in rural communities. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 6-month oral health education program conducted in five rural villages. A total of 300 participants, aged 18-60 years, were selected through stratified random sampling. The intervention included bi-weekly educational sessions on oral hygiene practices, proper brushing techniques, and the importance of regular dental check-ups. Data on dental hygiene practices were collected through structured questionnaires at baseline and post-intervention. Oral health outcomes were assessed using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index and gingival health was evaluated through gingival index scores. Results: Post-intervention analysis showed a significant improvement in dental hygiene practices among participants, with 75% reporting regular brushing compared to 45% at baseline. The mean DMFT score decreased from 5.2 to 3.8 (P &lt; 0.05), and the average gingival index score improved from 2.1 to 1.4 (P &lt; 0.05). Additionally, the frequency of dental check-ups increased by 40%, indicating a positive behavioral shift in the community. Conclusion: Community-based oral health education programs significantly improve dental hygiene practices and oral health outcomes in rural populations.

Correlation of Parental and Child Dental Plaque Levels: A Clinical Study

Objective: This clinical study aimed to explore the correlation between dental plaque levels in parents and their children. Specifically, the study examined differences in plaque correlation between mother–child and father–child pairs and evaluated the role of parental education in influencing children’s oral hygiene practices. Materials and Methods: A total of 196 subjects were recruited, comprising 49 mother–child and 49 father–child pairs, with children aged 6 to 15 years. Dental plaque was assessed using the O’Leary Plaque Control Record, applying a liquid plaque discloser and explorer. The plaque index was calculated as the percentage of dental surfaces with visible plaque relative to the total surfaces examined. Results: The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between the parental plaque index (IP_PARENTS) and the children’s plaque index (IP_CHILD) (p &lt; 0.001), indicating a strong relationship. While the father’s plaque index (ID_PARENTS(FATHER)) showed a marginally positive effect on IP_CHILD (p = 0.0589), the interaction between father identification and IP_PARENTS had a significant negative impact (p = 0.0344), suggesting that paternal influence on children’s plaque levels may vary. The model accounted for 28% of the variability in IP_CHILD (pseudo R2 = 0.2758). Conclusions: The analysis demonstrated a significant association between parental and child plaque levels, with minor differences observed between maternal and paternal influence. No significant effects were found for the age or gender of the children. Overall, increased plaque levels in parents were associated with higher plaque levels in their children, with slight variations depending on the parent’s role.

Clinical effectiveness of picture exchange communication system (PECS) on 5- to 7-year-old children's oral health.

To assess the impact of the picture exchange communication system (PECS) on oral hygiene motivation and practices in healthy children aged five to sevenyears. A total of 160 healthy children aged five to seven years were included in this study. At the first visit, the participants' guardians were asked to answer a questionnaire focussing on the sociodemographic, and the oral hygiene habits of the participants. All participants received a clinical examination to assess their dental caries experience using the ICDAS score, gingival condition using the gingival index (GI), and the amount of accumulated dental plaque using the Turesky Modification of the Quigley-Hein Plaque Index (TQHI), followed by comprehensive explanation of the proper oral hygiene protocol. The participants were randomly divided into two equal groups; the PECS group and the control group. The participants were re-assessed after 6months. The collected data were statistically analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 23 at a p-value ≤ 0.05. By the end of the follow-up period, the PECS group reported significantly greater adherence to regular tooth brushing (p = 0.006) with a frequency higher than twice per day (p < 0.000) and no need for parental motivation (p < 0.001), and had significantly lower mean GI and TQHI scores (p < 0.000). Most of the participants' guardians reported that the PECS cards were useful for use and that they would continue to use them 66/76 (86%). The PECS was found to be effective in motivating children to adhere to proper tooth-brushing practices, as reflected by improvements in their oral health status and gingival condition.

Independent contributions of nuclear and extended families to risk of early childhood caries among children from low socio-economic status in India.

The family is a fundamental unit of society and provides care to the needs of its members. This study aims to assess the independent contributions of nuclear and extended families through direct and indirect pathways towards the risk of early childhood caries among 5-year-old children from low socio-economic status families in Central India. Cross-sectional study with two-stage sampling of 313 randomly selected school children. The American Association of Pediatric Dentistry criteria were used for diagnosing early childhood caries (ECC) and severe early childhood caries (S-ECC). It was hypothesised that the type of family would impact ECC and S-ECC by acting on individual-level variables such as frequency of cleaning teeth, dietary patterns, and utilisation of dental services. Examiner-administered interviews collected information about demographic details and oral hygiene practices. Generalized structural equation modelling (GSEM) examined the relationship between exogenous variables, including nuclear and extended families with ECC and SECC. Path coefficients and the standard error with a 95% confidence interval were reported. ECC and SECC were present among 186 (59.4%) and 47 (15%) children. Nuclear families, more frequent between meal sugar consumption and lower utilization of dental care were associated with ECC (odds ratios of 2.43, 2.78, and 8.65, respectively (p⟨ 0.001)). Nuclear families were also associated with SECC. Type of family directly (p⟨ 0.001) and indirectly (p⟨ 0.05) predicted ECC via three or more times sugar consumption and lower utilization of dental services. Nuclear families were associated with ECC and SECC among children. Health professionals need to understand the influence of the type of family and the associated pathway to tackle and reduce the burden of ECC.

Implementation and Effectiveness of a Nurse-Led Oral Hygiene Program for Schoolchildren: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

Good oral hygiene is essential for schoolchildren's well-being. However, lack of knowledge, negative attitudes, and poor oral hygiene practices may predispose to oral-related diseases. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a nurse-led oral hygiene program on schoolchildren's knowledge, attitudes, and practices. A quasi-experimental design with pre-and-post-test was used. Using the convenience sampling technique, we recruited 400 schoolchildren, aged 11-12 and in grades 5-6, from two primary schools in Egypt. The study was conducted from September 2022 to May 2023. The Oral Hygiene Program served as the primary intervention. This program contains health education topics (e.g., the importance of oral hygiene, techniques for effective tooth brushing, and dietary choices that promote dental health). Three visits were conducted (Visit 1: introduction of the program purpose and objectives and pre-test scores collection, Visit 2: implementation of oral hygiene topics, and Visit 3: post-test scores collection). We used three self-report instruments (Oral Health Knowledge Questionnaire, Hiroshima University's Dental Behavioral Inventory, and Oral Health Practice Questionnaire) for pre- and post-test. Paired T test and Pearson correlation analysis were used for data analysis. After the intervention program, the oral hygiene program effectively enhanced schoolchildren's knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The post-intervention mean scores were 7.83±0.488 (knowledge), 6.63±1.7 (practices), and 9.33±1.1 (attitudes). High statistically significant differences were noted between schoolchildren's oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices before and after implementing the program (p=0.000). There were enhancements in the level of knowledge, with improved positive attitudes and satisfactory practices among schoolchildren after the implementation of the oral hygiene program. Integrating oral hygiene programs into the general curriculum in primary schools and training school nurses, caregivers, and teachers in implementing oral hygiene programs could improve oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices for preventing oral problems.

PREVALENCE OF DENTAL CARIES AMONG SMOKERS OF A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL OF LAHORE

Dental caries is a common chronic oral health condition globally, with an increased prevalence among smokers. Smoking contributes to caries risk by affecting saliva production, oral microbiota, and oral hygiene practices. In Pakistan, where smoking is prevalent. Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence of dental caries among smokers attending a tertiary care hospital in Lahore. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, from January to July 2024. The sample included 100 adult smokers aged 18 years and above. Data on demographics, smoking frequency, oral hygiene practices, and dental caries were collected using structured interviews and clinical examinations. Caries severity was assessed using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, were conducted to explore associations between smoking habits and caries prevalence. Results: The majority of participants were aged 26-35 (30%), with 35% smoking 6-10 cigarettes daily. Oral hygiene practices were suboptimal, with only 25% brushing twice daily, and 15% reporting no regular hygiene routine. The prevalence of dental caries was strongly correlated with smoking frequency and duration. Participants smoking more than 21 cigarettes daily had an 80% caries prevalence, while those with a smoking history of over 16 years had a mean DMFT score of 7.6. These results align with previous studies linking smoking with higher caries risk and severity. Conclusion: The study highlights a high prevalence of dental caries among smokers, with significant associations between smoking frequency, duration, and caries severity. These findings underscore the need for preventive dental health interventions, including smoking cessation programs and targeted oral hygiene education, to mitigate the burden of dental caries in this high-risk population.

Comparative study about the efficiency of interactive methods of oral health education in organized children’s groups

Introduction: Oral health education aims to inform and develop, among the population, a hygienic, sanogenic behavior, in order to maintain general health, oral health, harmonious development and strengthening of the body, its adaptation to the environmental conditions. Aim of the study: to comparatively evaluate the effectiveness of interactive methods of oral health education in groups organized by children. Material and methods. The clinical data of this study is based on the examination of 164 children aged 12. Depending on the oral health education methods applied, the children were divided into 2 groups. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the applied oral health education methods, questionnaires were developed, which the children completed individually until and after ending the educational program. Results. As a result of the implementation of interactive methods to promote oral health, children’s hygiene knowledge was completed. The level of motivation in self-care of the oral cavity increased and the state of oral hygiene improved. Moreover, the average value of the Oral Hygiene index decreased by 0.52 points.Conclusion. Interactive oral health education methods have a positive impact on children’s awareness of good oral hygiene practices.

Oral self-care practices, oral health status and treatment needs in diabetic and non-diabetic patients undergoing orthodontic treatment

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia resulting either from defects in insulin secretion, action, or both, affecting almost all tissues in body, including those in oral cavity and hence the aim of this study is to assess oral self-care practices, oral health status and treatment needs of diabetic and non-diabetic patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 120 each diabetic and non-diabetic patients ranging from 14-35 years undergoing orthodontic treatment. Data was collected using pre tested questionnaire for oral self-care practices and WHO proforma (1997) was used for assessing oral health status and treatment needs. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 17. Results: The present study revealed that there was not much difference in the oral hygiene practices among both groups. Percentage of oral mucosal lesions, Pocket formation, Loss of Attachment and mean DMFT was high among diabetic group when compared to non-diabetics. Conclusions: Since the prevalence of periodontitis is more among diabetic, the oral hygiene practices have to be improved. The oral complications of diabetes can be prevented by combined effect of dentist and the Physician by emphasizing the patients for periodic review to dentist for improving the oral health.

Effect of malocclusion severity on oral health and its correlation with socioeconomical status in Iranian adolescents

BackgroundThis study aimed to assess the effect of malocclusion severity according to the Index of Treatment Need (IOTN) on oral health (dental caries and gingivitis), and its correlation with socioeconomic status (SES) in Iranian adolescents.MethodsThis descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on adolescents between 10 and 16 years in Tehran city, who underwent clinical dental examination. The Dental Health Component (DHC) of the IOTN was used to assess the severity of malocclusion. The DMFT index was calculated to assess dental caries, and the gingival index (GI) was calculated for gingival health assessment. For oral hygiene assessment, the Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHI-S) was calculated, and a questionnaire was used.ResultsTotally, 306 adolescents participated in this study. The frequency of IOTN grades was 88 (28.8%), 89 (26.1%) ,49 (16%), 60 (19.6%), and 29 (9.5%) for grades 1 to 5, respectively. The multinomial logistic regression showed that by an increase in OHI-S score, the odds of having IOTN grade 4 compared to grade 1 increased. Postgraduate parental level of education decreased the odds of having IOTN grade 4 compared to grade 1. Furthermore, there was an inverse correlation between oral hygiene practice and the odds of having IOTN grade 5 compared to grade 1.ConclusionsMalocclusion may hinder oral hygiene practice, and resultantly increase plaque accumulation. This risk may be amplified in children with lower SES, highlighting the need for preventive and educational oral health programs.

Determinants of oral health among Iranian soldiers: a structural equation modeling study

BackgroundMilitary personnel often face unique challenges in maintaining optimal oral health. This study investigated the oral health status, caries experience, and associated factors among a sample of Iranian soldiers, employing a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach to explore the complex interplay of socioeconomic and behavioral determinants.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 658 male soldiers aged 18–30 years from three military barracks in Fars province, Iran. Data were collected through a structured instrument and clinical oral examinations. The study employs the DMFT index, which measures caries experience based on decayed, missing, and filled teeth, along with the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) to assess overall oral health status. Structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the complex relationships between socioeconomic factors, oral health behaviors, and oral health outcomes.ResultsThe mean DMFT score was 3.57 ± 5.91, and the mean OHIS score was 0.56 ± 1.42. SEM analysis revealed that socioeconomic status (SES) indirectly influenced DMFT and oral hygiene scores, mediated by drug use, oral hygiene practices, dietary sugar consumption, and dental visit frequency. Lower toothbrushing frequency was significantly associated with higher DMFT (Estimate = -0.064, p < 0.001) and OHIS scores (Estimate = -0.637, p < 0.001). Drug use (smoking, qalyan, alcohol) was linked to poorer oral health outcomes, while more frequent dental visits were associated with lower DMFT and OHIS scores.ConclusionThis study reveals the complex interplay between socioeconomic conditions, oral health behaviors, and oral health outcomes among Iranian soldiers. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address modifiable risk factors and improve access to preventive dental care within military settings. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to elucidate further the causal pathways between these factors and oral health outcomes in military populations.

Survey on Patient Perception of At-Home Bacterial Biofilm Control in Relation to Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Health.

Bacterial biofilm control around dental implants is critical for the health of the peri-implant soft tissue and longevity of dental implants. The patient's role in regular biofilm removal around dental implants is just as important as that of the dental hygienist. The purpose of this study is to identify the relationship between at-home dental implant care and patients' perceptions of peri-implant soft tissue health. A 15-item paper survey was distributed to adult patients undergoing professional dental hygiene maintenance at a specialty dental practice within a 3-month period and had at least one dental implant. Survey items included participant demographics, patient-reported adjunctive aids for dental implants and patient perceptions of dental implant oral hygiene practices and peri-implant soft tissue health. There was a statistical difference between time spent cleaning dental implants and peri-implant soft tissue health. An association was found between patients who reported spending more time cleaning their dental implants and less bleeding (p = 0.046/54%), gingival inflammation (p = 0.026/58%) and gingival tissue redness (p = 0.036/53%). Additionally, patients who more frequently underwent professional dental hygiene maintenance perceived less gingival inflammation (p = 0.001/66%). To promote peri-implant soft tissue health and reduce oral biological complications, best practice guidelines should be implemented, including optimal at-home dental implant care and regular professional dental hygiene maintenance.

The Effects of Electrolytic Technology Toothbrush Application on the Clinical Parameters and Bacteria Associated with Periodontal Disease in Dogs.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of electrolytic and nonelectrolytic toothbrushing on dogs' oral health and the presence of common bacteria associated with periodontal disease. Periodontal disease in dogs is a common problem worldwide. A toothbrushing procedure is recommended to prevent periodontal disease, with additional benefits if electrolytic toothbrushes are used in dog oral hygiene practices. A total of 26 dogs were enrolled in this eight-week study and were divided into two groups-treatment and control. Daily toothbrushing was performed on all dogs using the same dog toothbrush, with the power source disengaged in the control group. Oral examination was conducted on anesthetized dogs before and at 4 and 8 weeks after commencing the study, with sampling for bacterial analysis. This study was designed to be blind for owners, veterinarians, and laboratory staff. Improvements in the average gingival index (from 0.55 to 0.31) and calculus index (from 0.55 to 0.38) in the treatment group were recorded. In the control group, after an initial improvement in the plaque index (from 0.97 to 0.53), at week 8, it significantly rose to 1.21 (p < 0.05). Relative bacterial abundance revealed a reduction in all four tested bacteria in the treatment group, while in the control group, Campylobacter rectus levels rose by 3.67 log2 compared to before the study and at week 8. No adverse effects were recorded in either group.

Oral Health Status Among Deaf Children in Cuttack City: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Aim The aim was to assess the oral health status of hard-of-hearing children using the WHO Oral Health Assessment Form for Children 2013 and to evaluate their dietary and oral hygiene practices using the Oral Health Questionnaire given by the same. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted among 90 hard-of-hearing children aged five to 19 yearsin Cuttack city. The World Health Organization oral health assessment form 2013 for children was used for data collection. Type-III clinical examination were carried out usinga mouth mirror, explorerand WHO periodontal probe. The resulting data were entered into Excel sheets (Microsoft, Redmond, WA, USA) and transferred to SPSS version 25 software (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA).The chi-square test and multiple logistic regression analysis were used. Results Forty-nine children were aged between 13-16 years of age. Most of them had profound level of hearing loss (68%). The prevalence of dental caries was found to be 76.9% and 82.4% suffered from gingival bleeding. The logistic regression analysis demonstrated a significant association between the level of hearing loss and dental caries presence (p = 0.027), suggesting that children with higher levels of hearing loss may be more prone to dental caries. However, age (p = 0.882) and gender (p = 0.859) did not exhibit significant associations with dental caries presence. The age group has a significant association with gingival bleeding (p = 0.001), while gender shows a borderline significance (p = 0.090). However, the level of hearing loss does not appear to be significantly associated with gingival bleeding (p = 0.556). Conclusion In this study, the oral health status of these children was found to be considerably poor. There is a considerable need for treatment and prevention of oral disease among this population.