Regular Dental Check-ups Research Articles

A case-control study on oral health knowledge and dental behavior among individuals with developmental delays in Jordan: caregiver perspective

Aimthe aim of this study is to assess oral health knowledge and dental behavior among individuals with developmental delays intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in comparison with individuals without (IDD) in Jordan.MethodsA case–control study was conducted among 317 caregivers of individuals with IDD (n = 168) and control (n = 149) groups, which involved the completion of the questionnaire. A closed-ended, validated self-designed questionnaire was distributed. The questionnaire included questions addressing participants’ oral health knowledge and behavior. Convenience sampling was used to select the caregivers from centers associated with IDD by collecting data from nearby locations. Using SPSS® software Version 22 with a 0.05 level of significance data were analyzed. A Chi-square test and contingency-table analysis were performed on the data.ResultsCaregivers for individuals with IDD in Jordan were less knowledgeable about different oral health aspects than control group (P value < 0.05). Fewer individuals in the IDD caregiver group brushed their teeth once or twice daily (83.2%), compared to the control group (93.3%). Only 22.6% of the IDD participants could brush their teeth without assistance. On the other hand, the IDD group consumed significantly less sugary foods and soda than the control group (P value < 0.05).ConclusionThe lack of knowledge among IDD caregivers in Jordan is critical which can result in poor oral health outcomes for this vulnerable population. Increasing the knowledge level for the IDD caregivers on the specific needs for IDD individuals is highly important to enhance their understanding of oral health and improve their quality of life. Caregivers with IDD should receive training programs given by oral health professionals about the need for regular dental check-up and effective oral hygiene care reduce the risk of having dental problems and oral disease.

Oral Health and Systemic Disease: A Systematic Review of the Impact of Dental Care on Overall Health

Oral health is increasingly recognized as a critical component of overall health, with research highlighting its potential impact on various systemic diseases. This systematic review examines the current evidence on the association between oral health, particularly dental care, and systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, focusing on studies published from 2016 onward. Studies indicate that periodontal disease and other oral health issues may contribute to systemic inflammation, a common factor in many chronic conditions. Specifically, findings suggest that managing oral health can have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, glycemic control in diabetic patients, and respiratory function, as well as reduce risks for adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, while associations are evident, causality remains difficult to establish, and further longitudinal research is needed to clarify these relationships. This review underscores the importance of incorporating dental care into holistic health approaches, advocating for greater collaboration between dental and medical professionals. Public health initiatives promoting regular dental check-ups and preventive care may play a crucial role in improving overall health outcomes.

Examination of oral health quality of life and patient satisfaction in removable denture wearers with OHIP-14 scale and visual analog scale: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundOral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) is a term that encompasses conditions such as oral health status, living conditions, and function. OHQoL can change with the varying health conditions of the same individual. Many patients cannot afford implants or have anatomical limitations and therefore use traditional removable dentures. There are comparatively few studies investigating OHRQoL and denture satisfaction that include the patients’ sociodemographic data, denture satisfaction and related questions.AimThis study aimed to investigate OHRQoL and patients’ satisfaction with three types of dentures: upper and lower complete dentures, upper and lower partial dentures, and upper complete lower partial dentures.MethodsThe study was conducted between January 2022 and June 2023, with 150 patients using removable dentures. Patients’ age, gender, education level, place of residence, smoking status, reasons for tooth loss and visiting the clinic, type of denture and the duration of denture use were recorded. Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) and patient satisfaction with dentures as measured on a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were used to assess patients’ satisfactions with OHRQoL and dentures respectively. Descriptive statistics, the Shapiro-Wilk normality test, the Mann-Whitney non‐parametric test and the Kruskal-Wallis test were used.ResultsStatistically significant differences were found between gender, prosthetic type, usage duration and OHIP and VAS scores (p < 0.05). Women’s OHIP scores were higher than men’s, patients using complete dentures had higher scores than those using partial dentures in both jaws, those using dentures for less than 1 year had higher scores than those that had used them for more than 1 year. The analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in OHIP and VAS scores based on age, education level, and place of residence (p > 0.05).ConclusionsPatients may find it easier to adapt to removable partial dentures compared to complete dentures. Therefore, in prosthetic planning, dentists should prioritize preserving existing teeth. Regardless of the type of prosthesis, patients adapt to their prostheses over time, leading to increased satisfaction with prolonged use. Since individuals do not have a habit of visiting the dentist when there is no known problem, dentists should encourage patients to attend regular dental check-ups.

The critical intersection of mental health and oral health in severe mental disorders.

To highlight the critical need for integrated healthcare approaches for individuals with severe mental disorders and poor oral health. Review and discussion of factors contributing to elevated DMFT (decayed, missing, and filled primary teeth) indices in individuals with severe mental disorders. Higher DMFT indices are reported in individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder due to medication side effects, cognitive impairments, and socio-economic challenges. Emphasis on the necessity of combining mental and dental health services through regular dental check-ups, specialized education programs, and professional collaboration. Integrated healthcare strategies are essential to improve overall patient care and well-being for those with severe mental disorders.

Oral health status, self-perceptions, and risk awareness among young adult users of electronic cigarettes in Pakistan.

The use of electronic cigarettes (ECs) has surged globally, particularly among young individuals. This study aimed to assess the perceptions of vaping-related oral health risks, clinical oral health status, and self-perceived dental and periodontal conditions among young adult users of ECs in Pakistan. A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2023 to March 2024, recruiting 142 young users of ECs. Intraoral examinations assessed Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index, Oral Hygiene Index Simplified (OHI-S), Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI), Plaque Index (PI), and dental stain. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, oral health behaviors, vaping habits, and perceptions of impact of vaping on oral health were gathered through a self-administered questionnaire. Associations between EC use and various oral health variables were analyzed using the chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests. Mean DMFT was 5.66 (SD=2.20). Poor oral hygiene (29.6%) and severe dental staining were prevalent. Most participants (76.1%) brushed once daily, while only 34.5% attended regular dental check-ups. Gingival bleeding and plaque accumulation were observed in 47.2% and 35.3% of participants. Around 66% reported daily EC use, with 80.3% initiating vaping before the age of 18 years. Most common reason for vaping was perception that ECs are safer than traditional smoking (31.7%). Participants' perceptions of vaping-related oral health risks were relatively low, with 45% associating vaping with tooth decay, 48% with gum disease, and 58.5% with tooth staining. Tooth brushing frequency, vaping frequency (per day), and time since vaping started, were significantly associated with oral clinical indicators (p<0.05). The education level was the only variable significantly associated with vaping-related risk perception (p<0.05). The study reveals that oral health awareness among young vapers is low, with many starting EC use at a young age and exhibiting poor oral health behaviors. Misconceptions about the safety of ECs compared to conventional cigarettes may contribute to increased vaping.

Association between total functional tooth unit score and hemoglobin A1c levels in Japanese community-dwelling individuals: the Nagasaki Islands study.

It is widely recognized that periodontal disease is associated with diabetes mellitus. Periodontal disease is accompanied by inflammation of the periodontal tissue, impaired masticatory function, and the presence of periodontopathic bacteria, all of which may affect glycemic control. However, the exact relationship between these factors and glycemic control has not yet been established. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between periodontal disease-related factors and glycemic control in Japanese community-dwelling individuals. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 671 participants aged 29-92 (65.3 ± 12.1) years, using data from the Nagasaki Islands Study. Participants underwent routine medical examinations, including body mass index (BMI) and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. Information on the participants' demographics (age and sex) and whether they were on diabetes medications, had an exercise habit, consumed alcohol, engaged in late-night eating, had regular dental checkups, and smoked was obtained using a self-administered questionnaire. Dental examinations were performed to examine dentition status, probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level (CAL), and bleeding on probing. Functional tooth units (FTUs), defined as pairs of occluding posterior teeth, were used as an indicator of occlusal support area. Saliva samples were collected and levels of two species of periodontopathic bacteria (Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans) were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction. We analyzed the association between HbA1c levels and variables related to periodontal status, masticatory function, and salivary levels of periodontopathic bacteria. Bivariate analysis showed that HbA1c levels were significantly associated with age, sex, exercise habit, BMI, diabetes medications, CAL, salivary P. gingivalis level, number of teeth, and three FTU subcategories. In the multiple regression analysis, age, BMI, diabetes medications, and total FTU score (i.e., including natural teeth, implant-supported artificial teeth, fixed prostheses, and removable dentures) remained associated with HbA1c levels (B = 0.23, 0.14, 0.52, and - 0.12; p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.008, respectively). In this community-based cross-sectional study, total FTU was significantly associated with HbA1c levels, independent of other risk factors. This suggests that reconstructed occlusal support areas, including dentures, are associated with glycemic control in the older population.

Knowledge, Attitude, And Oral Hygiene Practices Among Law Students In Chengalpatu District: A Cross‑Sectional Study

Introduction: poor oral health can have a profound effect on the quality of life. The experience of pain, endurance of dental abscesses, problems with eating and chewing, embarrassment about the shape of teeth or about missing, discoloured or damaged teeth can adversely affect people's daily lives and wellbeing. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the oral hygiene and dental health knowledge of government law college, chengalpatu district, law students. Materials and methods: thirty questions about fundamental knowledge, mindset, and practice were given to one hundred and fifty law students at the government law college in chengalpatu district, tamilandu india. Microsoft excel was used to tabulate the data, and the statistical package for the social sciences programme was used for statistical analysis. Results: of the participants in this study, only 39.4% were aware that regular dental check-ups were necessary. 8.5% of participants made two annual visits to the dental clinic andof the individuals, 57% had never been to a dental facility. Dental health education is important, according to 65.5% of participants, and it may be important, according to 21.8%. The results indicated a statistically significant association between the participant's year of law degree and the responses, as determined by inferential statistics using the pearson chi-square test. Conclusion: the study's findings indicate that law students' understanding of oral health care and proper oral hygiene is adequate. But the learned knowledge needs to be applied in day-to-day activities. This can be accomplished by altering their perspective on maintaining good dental hygiene

The relationship between pneumonia and dental visits in patients with cerebral palsy: A nationwide registry-based cohort study in Taiwan

Background/purposeIn general, improving oral health can reduce the risk of pneumonia. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to investigate the risk of pneumonia between cerebral palsy (CP) cohort and non-CP cohort as well as the association of pneumonia with the number of dental visits in CP patients in Taiwan. Materials and methodsWe identified 10,544 patients who were diagnosed with CP between 2010 and 2019 from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. 63,264 individuals who had never been diagnosed with CP were captured and matched in a 6:1 ratio. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was adopted to assess the hazard ratio (HR) of pneumonia between CP cohort and non-CP cohort. ResultsOur findings demonstrated that CP cohort had 2.619-fold risk for pneumonia as compared with non-CP cohort after adjustment (95 % CI = 2.574–2.813, P < 0.0001). Cox regression analysis indicated that the CP group had significantly higher incidence risk of pneumonia (log rank P < 0.0001). Higher risks of pneumonia in CP patients were associated with younger age, and lower urbanization level. Some comorbidities as well as history of pneumonia had the higher aHR for pneumonia within 180 days prior to index date. In addition, there was a positive association with the more than two dental visits for the decrease 0.887-fold incidence of pneumonia in CP-cohort as compared with no dental visit (95 % CI: 0.799–0.984). ConclusionTaken together, CP patients had a higher risk of pneumonia. Dental visits are beneficial for preventing the risk of pneumonia in CP patients. The patients with CP should receive regular dental checkup.

Oral Health Problems Among Flemish and Dutch Nursing Home Residents Assessed by Nondental Caregivers Using the Novel Oral Health Section for Inclusion in interRAI.

Oral health of older adults in nursing homes is poor, which can negatively affect general health and well-being. Most oral health problems are preventable with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Caregivers can help improve residents' oral health through regular oral health assessments. The interRAI instrument used in Long-Term Care Facilities to evaluate older adults' health and well-being, has the potential to integrate oral care into general care planning. The recently optimized Oral Health Section for inclusion in the interRAI instruments (OHS-interRAI) enables nondental caregivers to identify residents requiring help with oral hygiene and/or a dental referral. This study reports the first data obtained using the OHS-interRAI, describing the oral health situation of older adults in Flemish and Dutch nursing homes. In this cross-sectional study, interRAI Long-Term Care Facilities data, including OHS-interRAI data, were collected from October 2020 to January 2023 and analyzed from 417 and 795 persons aged 65 years or older in Flemish and Dutch nursing homes, respectively. Most common oral health problems were poor oral hygiene and compromised teeth. Differences in oral health were found between Flemish and Dutch residents. Flemish residents had significantly more problems with chewing, dry mouth, oral and denture hygiene, and tongue condition than their Dutch counterparts. They also had a higher need for help with oral hygiene (19.4% vs 14.0%), and a dental referral (36.8% vs 20.9%). Older adults in Flemish nursing homes (20.3%) had significantly fewer dental check-ups than those in Dutch nursing homes (73.5%). The use of the OHS-interRAI by nondental caregivers identified at least one-third of the residents requiring help with oral hygiene and/or a dental referral. By means of trigger algorithms (Collaborative Action Points), the OHS-interRAI enables the integration of oral care into general care planning.

Long-term success of inlay and onlay procedures in dental repairs

Inlays and onlays are vital restorative techniques in dentistry, offering a conservative alternative to full crowns while preserving more of the natural tooth structure. These restorations, typically made from ceramic or composite resin materials, provide both aesthetic and functional benefits and are increasingly favored for their durability and longevity. In contrast to direct restorations, inlays and onlays are fabricated outside the mouth, allowing for greater precision and a more customized fit. The clinical success of these restorations largely depends on factors such as material choice, bonding technique, and patient-related variables like oral hygiene and habits. Ceramic materials are particularly noted for their resistance to wear and their ability to closely mimic the natural appearance of teeth, making them an attractive option for both patients and clinicians. Composite resins, while slightly less durable, offer a cost-effective alternative with satisfactory long-term results. Proper bonding techniques and high-quality materials are essential for ensuring the durability of inlays and onlays, with many restorations lasting over a decade. Patient-related factors also play a significant role in the success of inlays and onlays. Effective oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and the avoidance of habits like bruxism are essential for maintaining the integrity of these restorations over time. Despite the challenges and technical demands associated with their placement, inlays and onlays are highly successful when properly executed, offering patients a durable, aesthetically pleasing solution for dental repairs. The discussion of this review focuses on the critical elements that influence the long-term success of inlays and onlays, including material selection, clinical technique, and patient management, highlighting their effectiveness as a restorative option in modern dentistry.

Knowledge and Attitude of Dentists towards Teething and Essential Treatment for Teething Toddlers: A Questionnaire Study

Introduction Tooth eruption is the physiological process of movement of teeth from inside the jaw to their position in functional occlusion in the oral cavity. This process starts on average at 6 months of age and can cause local inflammatory symptoms, as well as signs and symptoms in the general health of babies and children.  Methodology The purpose of the cross-sectional questionnaire study was to assess the knowledge and attitude of dentists toward teething and essential treatment for toddlers. Validated questionnaire on google forms was circulated among the participants via social media. Data from Google forms was entered into excel sheets and SPSS 23 software was used for inferential analysis.  Results Of the 301 dentists assessed, the study included 54.5% females and 45.5% males, mostly general practitioners aged 26-30 years. Of the participants, 99% were aware of teething, with 89.7% encountering patients. Common symptoms were chewing objects (80.4%) and swollen gums (77.1%). Teething occurs at 4- 7 months for 7-8 days. 84.7% recognized eruption problems. 73.4% considered hematoma self-limiting. 82.1% knew pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. Advice included teething rings (80.7%) and distraction (77.1%). 96% recommended regular dental check-ups. 97.7% felt CDE was needed, and 99.3% wanted better parental guidance on teething management.  Conclusion The results of the present study help conclude that included dentists had good level of knowledge and attitude toward teething of toddlers.

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

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

The effect of Previous Dental Treatments on Dental Anxiety in Children Aged 4-12

Objective: The patient’s cooperation is crucial for the success of dental treatment. In addition to previous treatments, various factors such as socio-economic status, age, gender, and oral hygiene can influence dental anxiety. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of previous dental treatment experiences on dental anxiety. Material and Method: Children aged 4-12 years who applied for dental treatment, along with their families, participated in the study. During their children’s dental treatment, families completed a survey form containing sociodemographic data and information about previous dental treatments. Before the procedure, children were shown five pictures from the Facial Image Scale and asked to choose the picture that best represented their current emotion. The degree of cooperation during the procedure was assessed using the Frankl Behavior Scale. The interaction of patients’ dental anxiety with various factors was analyzed. ANOVA post-hoc analysis and Tukey’s test were used for multiple comparisons of normally distributed variables among continuous variation variables. Kruskal-Wallis post-hoc analysis and the Mann-Whitney U test were used for variables that did not follow a normal distribution. Results: Dental anxiety was found to be higher in girls and younger age groups, although this difference was not statistically significant. According to the Frankl scale, children who attended routine dental check-ups and had previous dental treatment experiences had higher scores, regardless of whether the previous treatment was favorable or unfavorable. Based on the Facial Image Scale, it was observed that children with no previous dental treatment selected more positive faces, whereas children with negative dental treatment experiences selected more negative faces. Conclusion: Previous dental treatment experiences and routine check-ups significantly impact reducing dental anxiety by familiarizing the child with the clinical environment and the dentist, as well as by reducing the need for invasive dental procedures. Therefore, to eliminate the negative effects of dental anxiety, preventive dental treatments should be emphasized by bringing children to regular dental check-ups at an early age, thus minimizing the need for invasive dental treatments.

Managing dental and skeletal development in patients with hemifacial microsomia

Hemifacial microsomia (HFM) is a congenital condition characterized by the underdevelopment of one side of the face, impacting the ear, mouth, and jaw areas. This anomaly, second only to cleft lip and palate in prevalence, presents significant challenges in dental and skeletal development. Early diagnosis, primarily through advanced imaging techniques such as 3D computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is crucial for identifying the extent of anomalies and planning effective interventions. The condition involves complex dental issues including malocclusion, missing teeth, and delayed dental eruption, necessitating early and targeted orthodontic treatments. Functional appliances, space maintainers, and braces are commonly used to guide dental arch development and correct alignment, leveraging the natural growth phase of the patient. Surgical interventions play a pivotal role in managing severe skeletal deformities. Preventive strategies, including regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene practices, and preventive treatments such as fluoride applications and dental sealants, are vital in minimizing complications and ensuring long-term oral health. Educating patients and their families on the importance of oral hygiene and routine dental care is crucial for maintaining dental health and preventing future issues. Continuous monitoring and follow-ups allow for timely adjustments to treatment plans, enhancing the effectiveness of interventions and supporting optimal growth and development. Overall, the management of dental and skeletal anomalies in hemifacial microsomia involves a combination of early diagnosis, orthodontic and surgical treatments, and preventive care, all of which are integral to improving outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals.

Assessment of dental hard tissues and periodontium in children with hemophilia

Relevance. Children suffering from hemophilia primarily receive dental care when they present with acute tooth pain or exacerbation of an existing condition. Due to the rarity (orphan nature) of hereditary coagulopathies, dentists often lack the experience and knowledge to utilize modern methods of prevention and treatment for this patient category. Additionally, the lack of regular dental check-ups for children with hemophilia often leads to a high level of oral morbidity and a need for specific treatments, as indicated by literature data.Materials and methods. The primary methods used to assess oral health in children with hemophilia included detailed questioning, detection of carious lesions in dental hard tissues, assessment of oral hygiene, and the condition of periodontal tissues.Results. Among pediatric patients with hemophilia, poor oral hygiene was associated with a high prevalence of carious lesions (100%) and very high caries intensity values (8.8, ranging from 7 to 11). Additionally, there was a relatively high prevalence of gingival inflammation, accompanied by pronounced gingival bleeding. A direct correlation was identified between the level of oral hygiene and the degree of gingival bleeding in children aged 6-17 years with hemophilia. The deterioration of dental indicators corresponded to the severity of hemophilia, the primary disease in these children.Conclusion. The study demonstrated that pediatric patients with hemophilia, particularly those with moderate to severe forms, had significantly worse indicators of oral hygiene, dental hard tissues, and gingival health compared to generally healthy children. The results indicate the necessity for dental monitoring and rehabilitation for children with hemophilia to detect and effectively treat oral diseases at early stages.

Mood Disorder and Oral Health

Mood disorders collectively represent one of the most common mental illnesses. Patients with mood disorders are more likely to have various physical illnesses compared to the general population. Of these diverse physical illnesses, poor oral health conditions are common, but they are often neglected in the care of mood disorders. This review examines the currently available evidence that altogether shows that oral disease both is common in patients with mood disorders and affects the course of mood disorders. In particular, oral disease is found to be common in patients with mood disorders, and patients with mood disorders put less effort toward oral hygiene than the general population. Symptoms of mood episodes, comorbid tobacco, alcohol, and substance use, diet, and pharmacological agents for mood disorder are all factors that could worsen oral health by worsening oral hygiene care. Etiological associations have also been suggested. Severe mood disorders can worsen oral health, and poor oral health could worsen mood disorder by increasing chronic low-grade inflammation. Mental health professionals should remain aware of the importance of oral hygiene in the clinical course of mood disorders and they should advise their patients to do regular dental checkups. [ Psychiatr Ann. 2024;54(8):e226–e229.]

Oral health-related knowledge, attitude and practices among nurses: a hospital-based questionnaire survey from a tertiary healthcare setting in Faridabad, India

BackgroundNurses play an integral part in the comprehensive delivery of healthcare services and contribute significantly to the success of public health initiatives. The knowledge, attitude and practices of nurses in...

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

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

Analysis of Psychological Distress and Dental Anxiety in Patients Attending Dental Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The COVID-19 epidemic has affected all facets of patient care, including dentistry services, and placed hitherto unheard-of demands on healthcare systems throughout the world. More and more emphasis is being paid to psychological discomfort and dental anxiety that epidemic patients face when seeking dental care. The purpose of this research was to examine the psychological distress and dental anxiety levels of patients receiving dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic in a tertiary care setting between 2021 and 2022. For this study, 300 patients with regular dental checkups were selected as a convenience sample. Self-report questionnaires measuring dental anxiety and psychological discomfort were filled out by participants. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data once demographic information was gathered. The majority of participants experienced psychological anguish (66.7%) and dental anxiety (73.3%) at moderate-to-severe levels. When compared to pre-pandemic values, there was a substantial increase in psychological distress (P < 0.001) and dental anxiety (P < 0.001) throughout the pandemic period. Current research shows how the COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the mental health of patients receiving dental care, underscoring the need of catering to patients' mental health needs in dental practices during public health emergencies.

Menopause and Oral Health: Clinical Implications and Preventive Strategies

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