Private Dental Clinics Research Articles

Strategic changes and challenges of private dental clinics and practitioners in Israel: adapting to a competitive environment

BackgroundIn the 21st century’s digital age, health organizations face challenges from reduced public healthcare spending, creating a competitive market that impacts healthcare management. The struggle is hardest for small organizations, such as private clinics. Competing under unfavorable conditions, these small businesses must run as independent, profitable units in a government-regulated market where they are subject to numerous restrictions yet receive no financial support. In a world of increasing dependence on digital technologies, these small businesses must adopt competitive business models and be adaptive and flexible in embracing change.MethodsThis qualitative study is based on a thematic qualitative analysis of 20 in-depth, 45-minute-long interviews with dentists and owners of private dental clinics in various specialties. The study employs the strategic change model to examine how dentists who run private dental clinics implement new strategies and technologies to adjust to changes and create a competitive edge.ResultsSix main categories emerged from the analysis of the interviews: changes in the organization’s environment; instituting and assimilating changes; obstacles in embracing change; added value obtained from embracing the change; quality of care and service; and cost-benefit considerations. The categories were map and evaluated in light of the strategic change model. The analysis indicated that digital strategies have been only partially adopted, suggesting an absence of a cohesive, long-term strategic vision for the organizations.ConclusionsThe study explored the actions, perceptions, and challenges of adapting to a competitive digital market in dental private clinics. Based on these insights, recommendations have been provided for global change management, aiming for a sustainable and stable healthcare system that benefits the broader community.

Remineralizing capacity of zinc oxide eugenol sealer following the addition of nanohydroxyapatite-tyrosine amino acid: An in vivo animal study

ObjectiveAlthough several sealers have been developed, the zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) sealer is still used in many private dental clinics. This study aimed to compare the biocompatibility and remineralizing capacity οf ZOE sealer with the addition of nanohydroxyapatite-tyrosine amino acid. MethodsThis study was conducted on Twenty rabbits. The rabbits were divided into four groups based on the test observation period (3, 7, 21, and 28 days) following surgical implantation. General anesthesia was administered to each rabbit, and a subcutaneous incision of approximately 1±0.5 cm was made along the symphyseal area of the mandible of each rabbit. Four bone cavities were generated in the interdental space of the lower jaw between the central and molar teeth of each rabbit, with one longitudinal subcutaneous incision. The ZOE sealers were mixed according to the manufacturer's guidelines and directly inserted within the cavities generated at the end of each test period. The animals were sacrificed, and bone biopsy was carried out at the site of testing. The biopsy samples were obtained and subjected to histological analysis using a low-power light microscope (Olympus C ⅹ 21, Japan) and immunohistochemistry using Ki67 antibody. ResultsThe collected information was examined by parametric statistical tests using SPSS software version ‘‘22.” One-way ANOVA and post-hoc Duncan’s tests were used to measure the significance among various groups, with statistical significance set, when “P≤0.01”. ConclusionThe 20% mixed endodontic sealer displayed excellent outcomes compared to other experimental groups, as identified by higher new bone formation at every evaluation period.

A study on the Prescription Pattern of Antifungal Drugs in Aden-Yemen

Background: Fungal infections are more common in tropical zones; they can be simple, complicated, or even fatal. Studying the prescribing pattern can help physicians provide rational medical care and appropriate patient compliance. The current study aimed to determine the prescription patterns of antifungals in three departments and the distribution of fungal disease to help in developing policies and stewardship in using antifungal medications. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted over 6 months from March to October 2023. Potential participants were approached in Governorate and private pharmacies, and dermatologic, gynecologic, and dental clinics. Results: The total number of collected prescriptions was 250. The analysis of the demographic characteristics of the involved patients showed that about 166 (66.4%) of the patients were females and 84 (33.65%) were males. Most of the patients are in the age group (19-35 years). Most of the fungal infection was vulvovaginal candidiasis 64(25.6%), Tinea versicolor 38(15.2), Tinea cruris 30(12%), oral candidiasis 21 (8.4 %), Tinea corporis (8.4%) then Tinea pedis and skin candidiasis had equal number 19 (7.6%), followed by tinea capitis 12 (4.8%) and onychomycosis 12 (4.8%). The most prescribed oral medicines were Itraconazole 66 (26.4%), followed by Fluconazole 56 (22.4%), Terbinafine 28 (11.2%), Ketoconazole 29 (11.6%) and Griseofulvin 13 (5.2%). The topical medicines prescribed were as follows: Ketoconazole 98 (39.28%), Clotrimazole 46 (18.4 %), Terbinafine 36 (14.4%), and Miconazole 33 (16.4%). The majority of patients (75%) received a combination of topical and systemic oral therapy. While (25 %) were treated by only topical agents.

Cross-cultural adaptation of the Arabic version of the oral health values scale.

The study aimed to adapt the original English-language oral health values scale (OHVS) to the Arabic culture and to test its psychometric properties. The original OHVS was translated into Arabic language and pre-tested using cognitive interviewing. The psychometric properties of Arabic OHVS were examined in a sample comprising 416 Libyan adults aged 18-70 years, recruited from the main public and private dental clinics in Benghazi. The participants' demographic information, oral health behaviour, perceived oral health, the Arabic version of the OHVS (A-OHVS), dental neglect scale, oral health-related quality of life, oral health literacy, simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S), and decayed, missing, and filled teeth index (DMFT) were collected. Psychometric properties were tested using content validity, construct validity, discriminating validity, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and floor as well as ceiling effects were examined. The Arabic OHVS was successfully and smoothly developed. It showed an acceptable level of equivalence to the original version, The A-OHVS presented an overall Cronbach's Alpha of 0.74 and the average score was 40.02, ranging between 26 and 54. All hypotheses predefined to test construct validity were confirmed. The bivariate correlation between A-OHVS and other health indicators shows a significant positive correlation between A-OHVS and oral health literacy (p = 0.000). On the other hand, statistically significant negative correlations were observed between A-OHVS and dental neglect and quality of life (p≤ 0.001) as well as DMFT and OHI-S (p ≤ 0.001). Floor or ceiling effects were not observed. The A-OHVS was shown to be a valid and reliable tool for assessing oral health values in the Arabic-speaking population.

Tissues response and bone-forming capacity of zinc oxide–eugenol sealer following the addition of nanohydroxyapatite-tyrosine amino acid: An in vivo animal study

Abstract Introduction: The zinc oxide–eugenol (ZOE) sealer is used till now in many private dental clinics although many sealers have been developed. The current study aimed to compare the biocompatibility and remineralizing capacity of ZOE sealer following the addition of nanohydroxyapatite-tyrosine amino acid. Materials and Methods: Twenty rabbits were used in this investigation, and they were divided into four groups based on the test observation period (3, 7, 21, and 28 days) following surgical implantation. General anesthesia was given for each rabbit with a subcutaneous incision of about 1 cm ± 0.5 cm made along the symphyseal area of the mandible of each rabbit. Each rabbit had four bone cavities generated in the interdental space of the lower jaw between the central and molar teeth, with one longitudinal subcutaneous incision. The ZOE sealers were mixed and directly inserted within the cavities as follows: ZOE alone on the central area of the right side of the jaw (Group A), 10% nHAp and Tyrosine mixed ZOE at the molar area (Group B), empty cavity (−ve control) located at the central area of the left side of the jaw (Group C) and 20%/nHAp and Tyrosine mixed ZOE located at the molar area on the left side of the jaw (Group D). Animals were scarified and bone biopsy samples from the tested parts were collected. Histological analysis was performed using a low-power light microscope and immunohistochemistry using runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) antibody. Data were statistically analyzed utilizing the SPSS software. One-way analysis of variance was used and the post hoc test Duncan’s test was utilized to measure the significance among various groups at P ≤ 0.01. Results: The inflammatory process decreased over time for all experimental groups, associated with an increase in granulation tissue formation which was gradually decreasing over time to permit an increase in new blood vessels and new bone formation for all experimental groups that increased with time. Group D displayed the highest levels of new bone formation. Runx2 antibody expression declined progressively, particularly in Group D on 28 days. Conclusion: Superior new bone formation and biocompatible properties were demonstrated by the 20% nHAp and tyrosine mixed ZOE sealer.

Radiographical examination of pulp stone distribution by cone beam computed tomography

Aims: The present study aimed to ascertain the association between pulp stone production and tooth type, jaw, arch orientation, and dental status in a Turkish subpopulation in the southern region of Turkiye by analyzing cone beam computed tomography images. Methods: The study included a retrospective examination of cone beam computed tomography images obtained at Gaziantep Private Dental Clinic and Gaziantep University Faculty of Dentistry between 2014 and 2020 for various purposes, and a recording of teeth with pulp calcification in the pulp chamber. The study did not include any teeth that had root canal therapy or porcelain crowns. Data was gathered from radiographs of people in the 19-90 age range. In all, 1676 teeth had pulp stones found in them. To compare proportions, two proportion z-tests were employed. Results: Male individuals possessed 774 teeth with pulp stones, while female individuals possessed 902 teeth with the same condition. The prevalence of pulp stones in first and second molar teeth (1092, 65.16%) is statistically farther than central and lateral incisors (238, 4.2%), canine (207, 12.35%) and premolar (139, 8.29%). The rate of pulp calcifications is statistically higher; in intact (1065, 63.54%) teeth compared to the teeth with filling materials (443, 26.43%) and teeth with caries (173, 10.32%); in the maxilla (874, 52.15%) compared to mandible (802, 47.85%). Pulp stone occurrence was higher on the right side (888, 52.98%) than on the left side (788, 47.02) (p

Patient safety culture perceptions among dentists in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia

ObjectiveSafe patient care can help reduce treatment costs, morbidity, and mortality. This study aimed to assess dentists’ perceptions of patient safety culture and related factors in the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia.MethodsThis cross-sectional study used a sample of 271 dental professionals working in private and public dental hospitals and clinics in the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia. The Safety Attitude Questionnaire (SAQ), a validated tool consisting of 36 items on a 5-point Likert scale, was used to assess dentists’ perceptions of patient safety culture. The score of SAQ ranges from 0 to 100 and a cut-off ≥ 75 is considered a positive attitude toward patient safety culture.ResultsThere were 53.9% males and 46.1% females in the study with a mean age of 35.56 ± 6.87 years. Almost half of the participants (52%) attended a course on patient safety and 22.1% experienced medical error in the last month. The mean score of the SAQ of the sample was 65.14 ± 13.03 and the patient safety score was significantly related to the marital status (P = 0.041), attendance of patient safety course (P < 0.001), and experience of medical error (P = 0.008). The highest mean score (73.27 ± 20.11) was for the job satisfaction domain, followed by the safety climate domain (67.69 ± 16.68), and working conditions domain (66.51 ± 20.43). About one-quarter of the participants (22.5%) demonstrated positive attitudes toward patient safety culture. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that dental professionals who attended a patient safety course were 4.64 times more likely to demonstrate positive attitudes toward patient safety than those who did not attend a course (P < 0.001).ConclusionThis study showed that patient safety culture was significantly related to the attendance of safety courses, marital status, and experiencing medical error. About one out of four dental professionals demonstrated a positive attitude towards patient safety culture which was significantly associated with the attendance of the safety course.

The Relationship between Tooth Brushing Techniques and Gingival Status in Patients Who Wear Fixed Orthodontics at a Private Dental Clinic in Makassar City

Background: Dental and oral hygiene is an important factor that must be maintained by orthodontic users. An effort to maintain healthy teeth and mouth is by brushing your teeth. Patients who use a deaf orthodontic device must be able to maintain their oral cavity to avoid the onset of caries and marginal gingivitis. Because there is a relationship between the brushing technique and gingival status in patients who wear fixed orthodontics. Research objectives: To find out the relationship between tooth brushing techniques and gingival status in patients who wear fixed orthodontics at a private dental clinic in Makassar City in 2024. Methods: The type of research used in this study is quantitative research using a survey approach. Survey research is a research method that takes samples from a population. The data and information collected by the researcher came from respondents. Results : The results of the study were obtained that there were several patients who had gingival status with different categories, including the mild category as many as 5 gingiva indexes, and the moderate category as many as 4 gingiva indexes, while the severe category had 4 gingiva indexes. It can be seen that orthodontic users are very susceptible to experiencing poor oral hygiene caused by respondents who do not maintain their oral hygiene. Conclusion : There is a relationship between the tooth brushing technique and gingival status in patients who wear fixed orthodontics at a private dental clinic in Makassar City in 2024.

Association between oral hygiene knowledge and practices among older dental patients attending private dental clinics in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

BackgroundEnsuring optimal oral hygiene is crucial for preserving the well-being of hard and soft tissues within the oral system. A lack of proper oral hygiene can have a detrimental impact on an individual’s health, leading to conditions such as caries and periodontitis. Therefore, this study investigated the association between the knowledge and practices of older patients in oral hygiene in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was carried out on 111 older patients who presented at purposively selected dental clinics in Addis Ababa. A convenience sampling method was used to recruit study participants. The data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. The questionnaire included information related to the patient’s knowledge and practices related to oral hygiene. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to investigate the associations between independent and dependent variables. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated, and variables with a p value < 0.05 in the multivariate analysis were considered significant.ResultsThe median age of the study participants was 70.31 years (65–100). Inadequate oral hygiene knowledge was found in 53.15% of the participants, while more than three-quarters (83.78%) of the older participants practiced poor oral hygiene. Older patients with good oral hygiene knowledge were 7.6 times more likely to practice good oral hygiene practices (AOR, 7.6; 95% CI (2.05–27.9)).ConclusionsPoor oral health is significantly associated with various health problems, particularly in older people. This study examined the relationship between oral health knowledge and practices in older dental patients and revealed insufficient knowledge and practices among participants. The results showed a notable link between oral health knowledge and practices in this demographic group, highlighting the need for support to improve oral health status. Organizations should increase awareness among older patients to improve their oral health status.

ПЕРСПЕКТИВЫ ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЯ ИСКУССТВЕННОГО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТА В УПРАВЛЕНИИ СТОМАТОЛОГИЧЕСКОЙ КЛИНИКОЙ

A rapidly developing technology - artificial intelligence - is actively being introduced into the life of modern people. One of the promising areas of its application is dentistry. Artificial intelligence can be used to improve the efficiency of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of oral diseases. This allows dentists, both public and private clinics, to work more efficiently and accurately. The process of treatment of all dental diseases is accelerated, making it more comfortable for patients. In addition, the quality of treatment and prosthetic results improves. The main goal of any dental clinic is to improve the quality of life of patients. But sometimes, interruptions in cellular communications and computer equipment, incomplete knowledge of the use of technology by receptionists, and a fairly large amount of medical documentation that a dentist needs to fill out negatively affects the provision of dental services. In turn, the management of a dental clinic is simplified. Aim of the work. Conduct a survey of the heads of private and public dental clinics in St. Petersburg on the readiness to use artificial intelligence in the institution, as well as a review of domestic and foreign literature sources to analyze the need to implement artificial intelligence in the work of dental clinics. Material and methods. A survey was conducted in St. Petersburg of the heads of 6 private and 6 state dental clinics using a developed questionnaire, as well as a review of available Russian and foreign scientific literature over the past 5 years, which allows for a more complete assessment of the programs based on artificial intelligence offered by many companies and developers to improve the concept of management and quality of patient service in dental clinics. Results and discussion. The use of artificial intelligence in the dental services management system not only helps save time and material resources, but also creates convenience for patients when making an appointment with a dentist, and improves the quality of provision of all types of dental services. Conclusions. The prospects for introducing artificial intelligence into dental clinic management are enormous. But its integration into this area of medicine requires the continuation of medical and sociological research and the creation of regulatory frameworks.

Practices of Dental Care and Treatment Provided to Pediatric Patients in Private Dental Clinics in Lahore, Pakistan

&lt;p&gt;Background and Objective: With the high prevalence of dental caries among children in Pakistan and the limited availability of pediatric dentists, dental care is provided majorly by general dentists. This study aims to determine the preventive dental care provided to pediatric dental patients by general dentists in private practice settings in Lahore.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 185 general dentists working in private dental clinics in Lahore, utilizing an online validated questionnaire designed by the authors and distributed through email and WhatsApp using a purposive sampling technique. Data were analyzed using statistical software, and p-value of 0.05 was taken as significant.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Results: Most respondents (73.5%) reported the unavailability of pediatric dentists in their clinics. About one-third of the respondents always chose to refer their child to a pediatric dentist. About 48.1% of the general dentists were &amp;ldquo;somewhat aware&amp;rdquo; of the behavioral management techniques. Pediatric-specific dental treatment services were more frequently provided in clinics where a pediatric dentist was available. Fillings were the most frequent (90.8%) treatment services, along with extractions (79.5%), pulpectomies (69.2%), and pulpotomies (65.9%). Notably, 74.1% of the general dentists had not attended any workshop or course in pediatric dentistry.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Conclusion: General dentists in private practices provide minimal dental treatment to pediatric patients, with a significant number lacking formal training in pediatric dentistry. This highlights the need for formal training programs to improve the quality of pediatric dental care.&lt;/p&gt;

Periodontal Health Knowledge Levels among Libyan Adult Patients Attending Public and Private Dental Clinics: A Comparative Study

Background: Periodontal diseases can result in premature tooth loss; However, early detection, adherence to oral hygiene practices, and regular prophylaxis can help prevent or minimize the severity of periodontal diseases. Additionally, increased awareness and knowledge about periodontal health can positively influence behaviors related to oral health. Objectives: This study aimed to assess and compare the level of knowledge about periodontal oral health among patients attending public and private dental clinics and to investigate the relationship of their knowledge with Socio-demographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess periodontal health knowledge among Libyan adults. Researchers interviewed 180 adults aged 18 years and older face-to-face. The study focused on demographic factors such as age, gender, education level, occupation, and clinic type. Additionally, a chi-square test was used to explore differences in periodontal health knowledge between patients attending public and private dental clinics, considering age, gender, education, and occupation Results: Socioeconomic status correlates with knowledge about periodontal signs, symptoms, etiology, and prevention. Females, those with higher education, and better economic status had significantly higher periodontal health knowledge. Knowledge increased with occupation level. The 41-60 age group and university-educated individuals demonstrated higher periodontal health knowledge. Females in public clinics were more aware of etiology than males. In private clinics, both genders showed an inverse association regarding the same question, with higher periodontal knowledge found among males. Conclusion: The study showed differences in periodontal knowledge among patients attending different types of dental clinics, with variations based on age, gender, education, and occupation. Better socio-economic status is associated with better knowledge.

Use of CBCT and panoramic radiography in the prediction of alterations in sensivity of the inferior alveolar nerve in third molars: A retrospective cross-sectional study

ObjectivesWe investigated which type of orthopantomography (OPG) was best able to predict neurological alterations of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) during extraction of a lower third molar (3 M). MethodsWe analysed cone beam computed tomographies (CBCTs) that were performed at a private dental clinic in Cartagena, Spain over five consecutive years. The CBCTs, together with their corresponding OPGs, had been prescribed for the surgical extraction of a lower 3 M. ResultsWe analysed a total of 342 CBCTs and their corresponding OPGs. After explaining the risk of changes in the IAN sensitivity, 37 patients refused to undergo surgical extraction. The incidence of sensitivity alterations in the 332 dental extractions was 62 (19%): 44 were paraesthesias of the IAN, and 18 were associated with darkening of the root and interruption of the cortical line. ConclusionWhen an OPG revealed darkening of the root and interruption of the cortical line, the risk of contact between the lower 3 M and the IAN—that is, the probability of changes in IAN sensitivity—increased by over three-fold.

Oral Hygiene Practices and Oral Health Knowledge among Adult Orthodontic Patients: A Best Practice Implementation Project

Orthodontic therapy is associated with a more significant accumulation of dentobacterial plaque and impaired oral hygiene, which increase the risk of developing dental caries and periodontal disease. Therefore, it is crucial to educate orthodontic patients about proper oral hygiene maintenance and oral health before and during treatment. The aim of this pilot study was to implement evidence-based best practices related to oral hygiene in adult orthodontic patients and improve compliance. In addition to evaluating oral hygiene practices, another goal of the project was to assess the knowledge of orthodontic patients regarding oral health. Questionnaires with seven pre- (before) and post-test criteria (90 day after implementation) were developed based on the best evidence available. This project was conducted in a private dental clinic in Split, Croatia, and included 45 patients. The baseline audit showed a gap between clinical practice and the best evidence. Three criteria achieved a high compliance baseline, while after implementation, there were substantial improvements in compliance for all. The everyday use of mouthwash improved from 17.8% at baseline to 66.7% at follow-up, as did the use of interdental aids, which increased from 55.6% to 91.1%. Statistically significant differences were found in the total score for oral health knowledge between the baseline (6.67 ± 1.74) and the follow-up audit (7.78 ± 0.56, p ≤ 0.001). The strategies developed in this project were effective in providing essential information to adult orthodontic patients and improving compliance with evidence. Guidelines on this topic should be designed to assist orthodontists and patients in maintaining oral health and oral hygiene.

Survival analysis of dental implants placed in a private practice. A multicenter prospective cohort study.

This prospective cohort study aimed to assess the predictability and survival rates of dental implant treatment in edentulous patients while identifying potential factors contributing to implant failure. A total of 80 outpatients, receiving 166 dental implants between September 2015 and November 2017 in two private dental clinics, were included in this study. Patient and implant characteristics, surgical procedures, primary stability, prosthetic rehabilitation, failure analysis, and survival rates were analyzed. The majority of patients (53.75%) received a single implant for treating single-gap edentulism, with 6.25% requiring implants for fully edentulous jaws. Most implants (66.87%) were Avinent Ocean IC implants with specific design features. Surgical placement primarily occurred in healed pristine bone (78.31%), immediate implants in fresh extraction sockets (19.88%), and bone regeneration was simultaneous in 15.66% of cases. While 54.82% of implants achieved primary stability over 35Ncm, none exceeded 45Ncm, and only 4.82% failed to attain primary stability. Prosthetic rehabilitation revealed that 13.25% received immediate loading prostheses. During follow-up, four implants failed, resulting in a 2.41% failure rate, with bruxism (HR: 96.62; P< 0.001) and absence of primary stability (HR: 23.54; P< 0.001) significantly associated with implant failure. The cumulative survival rate at 24 months was 97.44%. This study demonstrates the high predictability and survival rates of dental implant treatment in edentulous patients, consistent with established standards. Factors such as bruxism and primary stability may impact early implant failure. Dental implants remain a reliable treatment option, boasting a 97.44% cumulative survival rate at 24 months. Further research is required to explore implant failure indicators and multifactorial influences. Key words:Dental implants, survival, edentulous patients.

Prevalence and patterns of third molar impaction among Ethiopians in Addis Ababa: a retrospective pilot study

Tooth impaction is a condition in which a tooth does not reach its normal position and is often observed in the third mandibular molar due to inadequate space. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and configuration of the impacted third molars with an emphasis on angular orientations in a sample of the Ethiopian population. This cross-sectional study included a retrospective analysis of 291 patient records and orthopantomography data from the archives of a private dental clinic in Addis Ababa, during the study period from December 2020 to November 2022. Demographic details and data on the position and level of the impacted third molars were evaluated using the Winter classification. Data were analyzed for frequency distribution. The prevalence of impacted third molars was 22% (n = 64), with a greater incidence on the right side (60.9%) and a higher frequency in the mandible (67.2%). Vertical angulation (32.8%), followed by mesioangular angulation (31.2%), was the most common impaction pattern. The results highlight the need for improved treatment protocols for third molar impaction, emphasizing the prevalence in the mandible and the importance of addressing vertical impaction. Regular dental check-ups are essential for assessing third molar impaction and planning appropriate management. These data can inform policymaking and treatment considerations for impacted third molars in the Ethiopian population.

Sociodemographic factors impacting the spatial distribution of private dental clinics in major cities of Peoples Republic of China

ObjectivesInvestigate the geographical distribution of private dental practices in major Chinese cities and analyze the variables influencing this distribution. MethodsThis study used Python to extract various types of Point of Interest (POI) data spanning from 2016 to 2022 from the AutoNavi map. A 1km*1km grid was constructed to establish the study sample. Additional spatial pattern data, including nighttime lighting, population, and air quality data, were integrated into this grid. Global Moran's I index was used to analyze the spatial autocorrelation. The spatial lag model was used to explore the influencing factors of private dental practice distribution. ResultsThis study reveals a specific clustering pattern for private dental practices in major Chinese cities. The primary influencing factors include nighttime lights, population density, and housing prices, suggesting that dental practices are typically concentrated in highly developed regions with dense populations and high housing costs. Additionally, we discovered that patterns vary across different metropolises, with the most pronounced clustering patterns and substantial inequalities found in the most developed areas. ConclusionsThis study establishes that factors such as regional development and population density positively correlate with private dental practice. Additionally, it reveals a strong mutual correlation in the clustering of dental practices, which does not show a substantial correlation with public resources. Finally, it suggests that the spatial heterogeneity pattern implies a rising necessity to tackle inequality issues within urban areas as economic development progresses.

Digitally planned surgical crown lengthening: a novel bone reduction strategy to correct a gummy smile.

This report describes the bone reduction guide which was digitally obtained to improve diagnosis, treatment outcome and follow-up. Treatment of gingival smiles due to altered passive eruption should include interdisciplinary planning and smile design to facilitate the prediction of treatment outcome. Crown lengthening surgery can be supported by digital tools to improve surgical planning and follow-up. A 30-year-old female patient was referred to a private dental clinic seeking solutions for her gingival smile. Based on the anatomical crown length, a smile design was created, and the patient was presented with a simulated smile before treatment. In the surgical phase, a full-thickness flap was raised in the upper jaw to achieve the desired outcome. Using cone-beam computed tomography to determine cementoenamel junction for smile design and treatment planning brings many benefits. Patients and clinicians can foresee treatment results. From there, appropriate changes can be made. The bone reduction guide is designed to rest on the bone to help the clinician cut the bone accurately and thoroughly follow the established plan.

Modelling the national economic burden of non-surgical periodontal management in specialist clinics in Malaysia using a markov model.

Non-surgical periodontal treatment is the mainstay of periodontal treatment. In Malaysia, the prevalence of periodontal disease is substantial among adults with almost half of them having periodontitis. Therefore, we estimated the economic burden of non-surgical periodontal treatment in specialist clinics in Malaysia. Relevant data from multiple data sources which include national oral health and health surveys, national census, extensive systematic literature reviews, as well as discussion with experts, were used to estimate the economic burden of non-surgical periodontal management in specialist clinics in Malaysia in 2020. This estimation was done from the oral healthcare provider's perspective in both public and private sectors using an irreducible Markov model of 3-month cycle length over a time horizon of one year. In 2020, the national economic burden of non-surgical periodontal treatment during the first year of periodontal management in specialist clinics in Malaysia was MYR 696million (USD 166million), ranging from MYR 471million (USD 112million) to MYR 922million (USD 220million). Of these, a total of MYR 485million (USD 115million) and MYR 211million (USD 50million) were the direct oral healthcare cost in public and private dental clinics, respectively. The findings of this study demonstrated substantial economic burden of non-surgical periodontal management in specialist clinics in Malaysia. Being a life-long disease, these findings highlight the importance of enforcing primary and secondary preventive measures. On the strength and reliability of this economic evidence, this study provides vital information to inform policy- and decision-making regarding the future direction of managing periodontitis in Malaysia.

DETECTION OF BIOFILM PRODUCTION FOR ORAL BACTERIAL ISOLATES AND IT’S IMPACT ON DENTAL CARIES OCCURANCE

Background and aims: Microorganisms are known to be involved in the formation of biofilms. These biofilms are often seen in the oral cavity, tooth surfaces, prosthesis surfaces, attached oral mucosa, dental implants, etc. These are capable of causing dental caries or gingivitis, and most of them are also known to possess a higher ability to cause dental caries than non-biofilm-producing bacteria. This study was conducted to detect the biofilm formation in bacterial isolates from the oral cavity of patients attaining dental clinics in the Faculty of Dentistry, Sana’a University. In addition, the study examined the association between DMFT, decay, missing teeth due to caries, and filled teeth in the permanent teeth and the degree of bacteria ability to produce biofilm. Materials and Methods: Biofilm production was performed on 294 oral bacteria isolates from 100 patients who visited dental clinics run by Sana'a University's Faculty of Dentistry and private dental clinics. Biofilm-forming oral bacteria were detected by the tissue culture plate (TCA) method. The impact of biofilm production was correlated with the DMFT index of the tested patients. Results: Out of 294 isolates, biofilm formation was seen in 285 isolates (96.9%) by the TCP method. 21.4% of the iosolates showed a weak ability to produce biofilms, 72.4% showed moderate positivity, and only 3.1% showed strong positivity for biofilm production. Most S. aureus strains showed moderate and strong biofilm production (93.8% and 4.2%, respectively); S. mutans had 86.6% of strains with moderate biofilm production and 1.2% with strong biofilm production, while other streptococci had less biofilm production capacity. The DMFT index for the Yemeni patients included in the study was 5.9±2.4; there was a higher mean±SD (6.2±1.9) of DMFT for weak biofilm-producing bacteria with a difference equal to 3.5, 95% CI=1.4-4.2 (p=0.0001); for moderate biofilm-producing bacteria (6.9±2.5, difference=3.5, 95% CI=1.8-5.2, p=0.0001); and for strong-producing biofilms (mean±SD=6.2±2.9, p=0.03). Conclusion: In conclusion, a higher DMFT was observed in biofilm producers than in non-biofilm producers. The prime biofilm producers were S. aureus, S. mutans, and E. coli. Peer Review History: Received 6 December 2023; Revised 30 January 2024; Accepted 26 February; Available online 15 March 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Ahmad Najib, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Makassar, Indonesia, ahmad.najib@umi.ac.id Dr. Mohsen Ali Al-Hamzi, Thamar University, Factuality of Dentistry, Yemen. mohsenalhamzi@gmail.com