Symptoms Of Periodontitis Research Articles

Association between type 2 diabetes and periodontitis: a population-based study in the North Peru

Background Periodontitis, one of the most common forms of periodontal disease, has been linked to several cardiovascular factors including metabolic syndrome and inflammatory processes. This study aimed to determine the association between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and periodontitis in a representative sample of individuals in the north of Peru. Materials and methods Secondary data analysis using information of a population-based survey, enrolling subjects aged 35 to 69 years. The outcome was periodontitis, evaluated using a self-reported and validated 8-item questionnaire, whereas the exposure was the presence of T2DM, evaluated using results of oral glucose tolerance test and categorized into two different forms: (a) normoglycemic, prediabetes, and T2DM, and (b) without T2DM, with T2DM and <5 years of diagnosis, and with T2DM and ≥5 years of diagnosis. Poisson regression models were utilized to report prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results Data from 1606 individuals were analyzed, with a mean age of 48.2 (SD: 10.6) years, and 50.3% were women. Of these, 272 (16.9%) had prediabetes and 176 (11.0%) had T2DM (17.3% with <5 years of disease). Overall, 97.0% presented at least one symptom compatible with periodontitis, 882 (55.0%) had mild, 643 (40.0%) had moderate, and 5% had severe periodontitis. In multivariable model, those with T2DM had a higher prevalence of periodontitis (PR = 1.99; 95% CI: 1.12 - 3.54). Similarly, those with <5 years of disease had a higher prevalence of periodontitis (PR = 2.48; 95% CI: 1.38 - 4.46). Conclusions Our research confirms the association between T2DM and periodontitis, especially among those with recent diagnosis (<5 years). Symptoms of periodontitis are quite common in our study population. Our results suggest a need to periodically assess oral health in patients with T2DM.

The Effect of Acute High-Altitude Exposure on Oral Pathogenic Bacteria and Salivary Oxi-Inflammatory Markers.

Background: The environment can alter the homeostasis of humans and human microbiota. Oral health is influenced by high altitude through symptoms of periodontitis, barodontalgia, dental barotrauma, and a decrease in salivary flow. Microbiota and inflammatory state are connected in the oral cavity. This study aimed to explore the effect of acute high-altitude exposure on the salivary microbiome and inflammatory indicators. Methods: Fifteen healthy expeditioners were subjected to oral examination, recording the plaque index (PII), gingival index (GI), the simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S), and the number of teeth; unstimulated saliva samples were collected at an altitude of 1191 m (T1) and 4556 m (T2). TNF-α, sICAM1, ROS, and the oral bacterial species Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) were quantified. Results: At T2, slCAM, TNF, and ROS increased by 85.5% (IQR 74%), 84% (IQR 409.25%), and 53.5% (IQR 68%), respectively, while Pg decreased by 92.43% (IQR 102.5%). The decrease in Pg was greater in the presence of low OHI-S. The increase in slCAM1 correlated with the reduction in Fn. Individuals with high GI and OHI-S had a limited increase in TNF-α at T2. Conclusion: Short-term exposures can affect the concentration of pathogenic periodontal bacteria and promote local inflammation.

Electronic cigarettes and peri-implantitis: an umbrella review.

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are offered to consumers as a healthier option than traditional tobacco. However, the long-term effect of non-heat-burning tobacco and e-cigarettes on periodontal and peri-implantitis is unknown. The present review evaluates the impact of electronic cigarettes on peri-implantitis and compares the results with traditional cigarettes and non-smokers. Systematic/meta-analysis studies were searched in PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar until December 30, 2022. Five systematic/meta-analysis studies were identified based on the search strategy in the selected databases. The overall quality assessment of the studies showed acceptable evidence with high quality. All systematic review studies showed that compared to traditional tobacco smoke, electronic cigarettes might reduce or not change the clinical inflammatory symptoms of periodontitis and peri-implantitis, such as bleeding on probing, probing depth, peri-implant bone loss, and response to treatments. Electronic cigarettes contain nicotine, which can harm periodontal and implant health. On the other hand, a wide range of oral health consequences may be associated with using e-cigarettes. E-cigarette is a potential risk factor for the healing process and the results of implant treatment.

Association between Periodontal Disease and Oral Benign, Potentially Malignant, Malignant, and Chronic Immune-Mediated Disorders: A Clinical Study.

Background: Periodontal disease is an inflammatory, chronic, and multifactorial disease. The objective of this study is to analyze the association between periodontal disease and some disorders such as papillomas (benign lesions), lichen planus (a chronic immune-mediated disorder), leukoplakia (potentially malignant lesions), and oral cancer (malignant lesions). Methods: For this study, 42 patients were recruited whose supragingival and subgingival plaque was qualitatively analyzed using a phase-contrast microscope, which allowed for the detection of compatible bacterial flora (immobile and composed mainly of cocci) indicative of periodontal health and incompatible bacterial flora (mobile and composed mainly of spirochetes) indicative of periodontal pathology. Patients with incompatible bacterial flora were then subjected to a laser-assisted periodontal treatment with irrigation with hydrogen peroxide within the periodontal pockets (a non-surgical laser-assisted periodontal protocol which is referred to as dye-free photodynamic therapy). Results: Based on the 42 patients recruited, there was no association between oral cavity lesions and periodontal pathogenic bacteria. Four of them were found to have incompatible bacterial flora. Indeed, it was found that almost all the patients had been previously instructed in the proper techniques of home oral hygiene, and more than half of them reported that they carried out periodic check-ups by a dental hygienist. Of the four patients with signs and symptoms of periodontitis, two stated a willingness to undergo the non-surgical laser-assisted periodontal protocol and showed improvements in periodontal indices such as CAL, PPD, and BoP. Conclusions: hygienists and dentists are determining factors in the prevention of periodontal disease and for the maintenance of good oral health.

Association between type 2 diabetes and periodontitis: a population-based study in the North Peru

Background Periodontitis, one of the most common forms of periodontal disease, has been linked to several cardiovascular factors including metabolic syndrome and inflammatory processes. This study aimed to determine the association between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and periodontitis in a representative sample of individuals in the north of Peru. Materials and methods Secondary data analysis using information of a population-based survey, enrolling subjects aged 35 to 69 years. The outcome was periodontitis, evaluated using a self-reported and validated 8-item questionnaire, whereas the exposure was the presence of T2DM, evaluated using results of oral glucose tolerance test and categorized into two different forms: (a) normoglycemic, prediabetes, and T2DM, and (b) without T2DM, with T2DM and <5 years of diagnosis, and with T2DM and ≥5 years of diagnosis. Poisson regression models were utilized to report prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results Data from 1606 individuals were analyzed, with a mean age of 48.2 (SD: 10.6) years, and 50.3% were women. Of these, 272 (16.9%) had prediabetes and 176 (11.0%) had T2DM (17.3% with <5 years of disease). Overall, 97.0% presented at least one symptom compatible with periodontitis, 882 (55.0%) had mild, 643 (40.0%) had moderate, and 5% had severe periodontitis. In multivariable model, those with T2DM had a higher prevalence of periodontitis (PR = 1.99; 95% CI: 1.12 - 3.54). Similarly, those with <5 years of disease had a higher prevalence of periodontitis (PR = 2.48; 95% CI: 1.38 - 4.46). Conclusions Our research confirms the association between T2DM and periodontitis, especially among those with recent diagnosis (<5 years). Symptoms of periodontitis are quite common in our study population. Our results suggest a need to periodically assess oral health in patients with T2DM.

Protective effect of carvacrol hydrogel on the alveolar bone in rats with periodontitis.

This study aimed to investigate the protective effect and mechanism of carvacrol hydrogel on the alveolar bone in rats with periodontitis. A thermosensitive hydrogel supported by carvacrol was prepared using poloxamer and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose as matrix. SD rats were randomly divided into blank group, periodontitis group, blank hydrogel group, and low-, medium-, and high-dose hydrogel groups. The periodontitis symptoms and the CT structure of the alveolar bone were observed. The changes in liver, spleen, kidney, and periodontal tissues were observed. The related indexes of bone metabolism in serum were detected. The expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG) and nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway proteins was determined by Western blot. The levels of inflammatory factors were assessed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Carvacrol hydrogel had good slow release, biocompatibility, and cell adhesion. The periodontitis of rats in the carvacrol hydrogel group was significantly alleviated, the expression of OPG protein in gingival tissue was significantly increased (P<0.01), and the levels of receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL), receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK), NF-κB protein, and inflammatory factors were significantly decreased (P<0.01). Carvacrol hydrogel can regulate the OPG and NF-κB pathways, reduce alveolar bone absorption, and improve periodontal inflammation.

The anti-inflammatory effect of a magnoliae cortex and Zea mays L. extract mixture in a canine model of ligature-induced periodontitis

BackgroundPeriodontitis is common in dogs. It is characterized by destruction of the supporting tissues of the teeth due to the host-immune response triggered by plaque. Magnoliae cortex and Zea mays L. extract showed anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effects, respectively. This study aimed to evaluate improvement in periodontitis following the administration of Magnoliae cortex and Zea mays L. extract in dogs. Periodontitis was experimentally induced in 10 beagle dogs. Five dogs were administered 40 mg of Magnoliae cortex extract and 20 mg of Zea mays L. extract orally once per day for 2 months (MZ group), whereas the other group received empty gelatin capsules (control group). Periodontal clinical parameters, complete blood count, serum chemistry parameters, and tissue inflammatory cytokines and chemokine expression were assessed before and after combined oral extracts administration.ResultsThe complete blood count and serum chemistry results of all dogs were within normal ranges. Gingival inflammation in MZ group was significantly better than that in the control group at 4 and 8 weeks post-medication (PM; p < 0.05). The periodontal pocket depth and clinical attachment loss at 8 weeks PM in the MZ group were significantly lower than the baseline values (p < 0.05). The incidence of bleeding on probing in the MZ group was significantly lower than that in the control group at 4 weeks PM (p < 0.05). Throughout the medication period, the percentages of CD4 + and CD8 + T cells were higher and lower, respectively, in the MZ group. However, these differences were only significant at 8 weeks PM. The expression of the inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, and TNF-α and the chemokine IL-8 in the inflamed tissues was lower in the MZ group, and the two groups showed a significant difference in TNF-α expression.ConclusionsCombined administration of Magnoliae cortex and Zea mays L. extract improved the clinical symptoms of periodontal disease in dogs. This beneficial effect may be partly due to the inhibitory effects of these extracts on the inflammatory response.

Assessing the therapeutic potential of Ganoderma lucidum spore oil in alleviating periodontal tissue damage in murine periodontitis model

Periodontal disease presents a significant challenge in oral health due to its chronic inflammatory nature and subsequent degradation of tooth-supporting structures. Natural compounds have attracted attention for their potential therapeutic effects in alleviating symptoms of periodontitis (PD). In this study, we investigated the impact of Ganoderma lucidum spore oil (GLSO), a lipid component extracted from broken-walled GLS using the supercritical CO2 extraction method, on PD pathogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Treatment of human gingival fibroblasts with GLSO resulted in a significant reduction in the expression of inflammatory factors, including matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and interleukin (IL)-8, upregulated by lipopolysaccharide or IL-1β. Molecular mechanism studies revealed that the observed decrease in inflammatory factor expression may be attributed to the inhibition of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase activity by GLSO. Furthermore, intraperitoneal injection of GLSO in a ligature-induced PD mouse model led to a notable reduction in periodontal inflammation and alveolar bone loss, accompanied by decreased levels of MMP-1 and IL-8. These in vivo results support the potential therapeutic efficacy of GLSO in alleviating PD symptoms. Overall, our study provides novel insights into the beneficial effects of GLSO in PD management. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and explore the clinical applicability of GLSO as a promising therapeutic agent for PD treatment.

Association Between Periodontal Diseases and Hypothyroidism: A Case-Control Study.

Periodontal diseases are chronic inflammatory disorders influenced by systemic health of the individual. This study aimed to investigate the association between hypothyroidism and periodontal disease in a cohort of adult Saudi population. This case-control study included 201 adults with hypothyroidism on hormone replacement therapy and 188 healthy controls. The medical files of patients were reviewed to check thyroid stimulation hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) levels. Participants completed a questionnaire on demographic and health information, followed by a comprehensive periodontal examination. Pearson chi-square and binary logistic regression analyses determined associations, with a significance set at p ≤0.05. Gingivitis was found in 20.9% of cases and 58% of controls. Periodontitis stages I, II, III and IV were in general higher in cases compared to controls (23.4%, 27.9%, 21.9%, 6% in cases versus 13.8%, 17%, 9.6%, 1.6% in controls, respectively). Mean PPD and CAL values were higher in cases (5.54 ± 2.5 and 3.88 ± 3.1) than in controls (4.03 ± 1.6 and 1.72 ± 2.4). Significant associations between periodontal status and hypothyroidism were found (p < 0.0001). The periodontal status in hypothyroid cases correlated significantly with hormone replacement therapy dose and duration (p < 0.0001). The findings of the current study showed that, in a cohort of adult Saudi subjects, patients with hypothyroidism have higher prevalence and more severe periodontal disease symptoms compared to controls, suggesting significant association.

Immunometabolic rewiring in macrophages for periodontitis treatment via nanoquercetin-mediated leverage of glycolysis and OXPHOS

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease marked by a dysregulated immune microenvironment, posing formidable challenges for effective treatment. The disease is characterized by an altered glucose metabolism in macrophages, specifically an increase in aerobic glycolysis, which is linked to heightened inflammatory responses. This suggests that targeting macrophage metabolism could offer a new therapeutic avenue. In this study, we developed an immunometabolic intervention using quercetin (Q) encapsulated in bioadhesive mesoporous polydopamine (Q@MPDA) to treat periodontitis. Our results demonstrated that Q@MPDA could reprogram inflammatory macrophages to an anti-inflammatory phenotype (i.e., from-M1-to-M2 repolarization). In a murine periodontitis model, locally administered Q@MPDA reduced the presence of inflammatory macrophages, and decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the periodontium. Consequently, it alleviated periodontitis symptoms, reduced alveolar bone loss, and promoted tissue repair. Furthermore, our study revealed that Q@MPDA could inhibit the glycolysis of inflammatory macrophages while enhancing oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), facilitating the shift from M1 to M2 macrophage subtype. Our findings suggest that Q@MPDA is a promising treatment for periodontitis via immunometabolic rewiring.

Knowledge on Periodontal Diseases and Systemic Health Inter-Relationship among Nursing and Dental Surgery Technician Students in Southwest Nigeria

Background: Periodontal disease is a potential source of systemic inflammation that impacts overall health. Therefore, successful prevention and management of the disease is pivotal in avoiding systemic inflammation with its attending complications. This will involve creating awareness about its causes, early identification of symptoms and effective treatment. Objective: To assess and compare the level of knowledge about periodontal diseases and its interrelationship with systemic diseases among nursing and dental surgery technician (DST) students. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among DST and nursing students using a structured questionnaire which consisted of questions on bio-data and knowledge on periodontal-systemic diseases. Questions regarding their oral hygiene practices and dental service utilization were also asked. Data was analyzed using SPSS version21. Result: Respondents consisted of 31(10.8%) males and 257(89.2%) females with their mean age being 21.5± 2.5 years; having more nursing students 173(60.1%) compared to DST students 115(39.9%). Majority of the respondents (79%) had good knowledge on the interrelationship between periodontal disease and systemic health, with a greater level of knowledge significantly noted among the DST students (85.3%) compared with the nursing students (75%) [p= 0.041]. Similarly, the level of knowledge about symptoms of periodontal diseases was high (85%) and significantly more reported by the DST students (98.2%) compared to the nursing students (76.1%). Assessment of the respondents’ dental service utilization revealed that only 40% had ever visited a dentist, more significantly noted by the DST students (64.0%) compared to the nursing students. Conclusion: There was a good level of knowledge on periodontal-systemic interrelationship among the respondents. Their dental service utilization and oral hygiene practices were found to be fair. There is an inevitable need for interdisciplinary collaboration between nursing and dental professionals for the development of oral health curriculum for nurses to promote oral health and prevent dental diseases in the community.

Conventional diagnostic criteria for periodontal diseases (plaque-induced gingivitis and periodontitis).

This narrative review addresses conventional diagnostic criteria used in clinical practice to discriminate between periodontal health, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Visual examination of the color and texture of the periodontal tissues, assessment of plaque deposits, periodontal probing assessments, and diagnostic imaging enable the collation of information to make a periodontal diagnosis, followed by an appropriate treatment plan. The periodontal probe is an essential diagnostic tool to assess probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, and the degree of furcation involvement at multirooted teeth. When clinical signs and symptoms of periodontitis are identified, diagnostic imaging enables evaluation of the level and extent of bone destruction and bone defect morphology. The diagnostic process requires clinicians who are trained to evaluate, record, and interpret these measures. This narrative review focuses on conventional clinical diagnostic parameters which, despite their limitations, are considered the current standard of care.

Is There a Correlation Between Periodontal Disease Symptoms and the COVID-19 Vaccination?

This study aimed to investigate and compare potential associations between different COVID-19 vaccines and periodontal diseases, mainly gingival bleedingand oral malodor (bad breath). This cross-sectional study used an online questionnaire consisting of 15 questions regarding demographic information, medical history, type of COVID-19 vaccine received, history of COVID-19, and general and periodontal symptoms after vaccination. The survey was voluntary and privately accessed online using SurveyMonkey®. A total of 2000 participants from three regions of Saudi Arabia participated in the study from October 11, 2021, to October 11, 2022. Of the participants, 95.8% received at least one dose of the available COVID-19 vaccine. Oxford-AstraZeneca was the most administered (41.7%). Patients who suffered from chronic diseases or had a history of COVID-19 infection were less likely to be vaccinated (OR= 0.62, 95% CI 0.40-0.97; OR=0.62, 95% CI 0.39-0.99) compared with people with no chronic diseases or who had a history of COVID-19. The odds ratios for gingival bleeding, oral malodor, mobility, and tooth loss indicated no significant differences regarding vaccination status. COVID-19 vaccines might not affect periodontal tissue conditions. People should not avoid vaccination due to concerns with oral or general health, as the benefits of vaccination outweigh the potential side effects.

Patient awareness of the association between periodontal and systemic diseases in an academic setting.

Periodontal diseases (PD) have been increasingly associated with several systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes mellitus (DM), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study aimed to gain insight into patients' awareness of the association between PD and systemic diseases. A survey was developed to analyze patient awareness of the association between PD and systemic diseases. Descriptive and categorical variables were summarized with counts and percentages. Chi-squared tests were used to evaluate differences between variables. A linear logistical regression model was used to assess the simultaneous, independent association between each variable. Data from 161 completed surveys were analyzed. The majority of the participants (61.49%) reported awareness of symptoms of PD, but only 36.36% identified all its major symptoms. Individuals reporting awareness of the association between PD and systemic diseases was 48.4%, 31.7%, 14.9%, and 9.9% for CVD, DM, RA, and AD, respectively. Patients aged ≥51 years and males were more aware of the association between PD and CVD. Increased awareness of an association between PD and DM was observed among patients who had a higher frequency of dental visits and those with a self-reported history of DM. This study provides insight that, even with the vast amount of scientific knowledge on the inter-relationships that exist between PD and systemic diseases, most patients are still unaware of these associations. This research identified that improvement of health literacy surrounding PD, their symptoms, and their association with systemic diseases may be warranted.

Effect of Smoking Cessation Programs on Periodontal Disease Progression

ABSTRACT Background: In this research study, we delve into the effects of smoking cessation programs on the progression of periodontal disease, particularly focusing on the potential benefits experienced by individuals who successfully quit smoking. Materials And Methods: The research involved the participation of 200 individuals, all of whom were active smokers and exhibited varying degrees of periodontal disease. These participants enrolled in a comprehensive smoking cessation program that included regular counseling sessions and, when necessary, the provision of nicotine replacement therapy to facilitate smoking cessation. Over a 12-month period, the progression of their periodontal disease was systematically monitored through a series of dental check-ups and measurements of critical clinical parameters. These parameters included probing depth (PD), which assesses the spaces between teeth and gums, and clinical attachment level (CAL), which evaluates the attachment of gum tissue to tooth surfaces. Results: After 12 months of active participation in the smoking cessation program, several noteworthy results were observed among the participants. On average, participants experienced a reduction in PD by approximately 1.5 mm, indicating a shallower space between the teeth and gums and, thus, healthier periodontal tissues. In addition, the CAL improved by an average of 1.2 mm, signifying enhanced attachment of gum tissue to the tooth surface, which is essential for dental stability. Participants also exhibited a significant reduction in plaque accumulation on tooth surfaces, indicative of improved oral hygiene practices. Furthermore, gingival inflammation, a common symptom of periodontal disease, notably decreased among participants, suggesting an overall improvement in gum health Conclusion: In conclusion, this study provides compelling evidence supporting the positive impact of smoking cessation programs on the progression of periodontal disease.

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

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

Association of self-reported periodontal disease and inequities with long haul COVID-19.

In 2000, the Surgeon General's report highlighted that the mouth is a mirror for overall health of an individual and that disparities in oral health are directly proportionate to general health inequities. Among patients hospitalized due to COVID-19, diabetes and cardiovascular disease are the most common comorbidities; several studies support the association of these conditions with periodontal disease. This study's main aim is to assess the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on populations from lower socioeconomic statuses. The study also aims to assess the association of self-reported periodontal disease with COVID-19 disease course and severity. A sample population of Indiana residents with positive diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 were recruited. A validated survey tool was sent to this cohort inquiring about sociodemographic distribution; co-morbid conditions, current symptoms of "long haul COVID," course of their COVID-19 infection; history of periodontal disease, existing periodontal disease symptoms, and oral hygiene habits. 209 individuals with a history of positive COVID test were returned to the survey, and association of participant characteristics and periodontal disease-related survey items with COVID-related survey items were evaluated using chi-square tests. Lower sense of smell ratings was associated with less education (p = 0.021), being unemployed/disabled (p = 0.008), worse health status (p<0.001), more frequent bleeding gums (p = 0.031), more frequent toothache (p<0.001), lower oral health rating (p = 0.002), and vaccine status (p = 0.011). Lower sense of taste ratings were associated with older age (p = 0.018), worse health (p<0.001), more frequent bleeding gums (p<0.001), more frequent mobile or loose tooth (p = 0.010), presence of gum disease (p<0.001), more frequent loss of teeth (p = 0.013), more frequent toothache (p<0.001), worse oral health (p = 0.001), teeth lost due to gum disease (p = 0.006), and vaccine status (p = 0.001). History of hospitalization due to COVID-19 was found to be associated with a history of gum disease within the past 12 months.

ВЛИЯНИЕ СРЕДСТВ ИНДИВИДУАЛЬНОЙ ГИГИЕНЫ ПОЛОСТИ РТА НА ДИНАМИКУ ПАРОДОНТОЛОГИЧЕСКОГО СТАТУСА БЕРЕМЕННЫХ ЖЕНЩИН

Subject. The hygienic condition of the oral cavity of pregnant women, using oral hygiene products of national production.&#x0D; Objectives. Studying the influence of personal oral hygiene products on pregnant women's periodontal status.&#x0D; Methodology. The study involved 90 pregnant women in the second trimester of pregnancy with symptoms of periodontal disease. All patients filled out a questionnaire and underwent a comprehensive dental examination with the determination of the Green–Vermillion hygiene indexes, API, PMA indexes, and Orekhova–Ulitovsky's sensitivity index. Pregnant women were taught the correct technique of brushing their teeth. Furthermore, they were divided into three groups: the first group used the toothpaste of national production, the second used the toothpaste and the mouthwash of national production, and the third group was control. The control of the study was carried out in 2 and 4 weeks with repeated completion of the questionnaire and the determination of indices.&#x0D; Results. According to the survey, 72% of pregnant women noted bleeding gums and bad breath during pregnancy. Examination of the oral cavity after using the toothpaste and the mouthwash of the national production showed a significant reduction in plaque formation and a decrease in hygienic and periodontal indexes compared to the control group. &#x0D; Conclusion&#x0D; 1. Using the toothpaste and the mouthwash of the national production helped eliminate subjective sensations in pregnant women in the area of bad breath and tooth sensitivity.&#x0D; 2. The toothpaste and the mouthwash of the national production have a beneficial effect on periodontal tissues, reducing plaque formation and inflammation in pregnant women's periodontal tissues.&#x0D; 3. Using both toothpaste and mouthwash of national production appeared to be the most effective.

Therapeutic effect of aged garlic extract on gingivitis in dogs.

Periodontal disease is one of the most common dental health problems in dogs. Clinical studies in humans have shown that aged garlic extract (AGE), which contains stable and water-soluble sulfur-containing bioactive compounds, improves the symptoms of periodontal diseases. Our previous study demonstrated that oral administration of AGE in healthy Beagle dogs at 90 mg/kg/day for 12 weeks had no adverse effects such as hemolytic anemia, which is well known to occur as a result of ingestion of Allium species, including onions and garlic, in dogs. However, the therapeutic potential of AGE in canine periodontal disease remains unclear. Accordingly, we investigated the therapeutic effects of AGE in Beagle dogs with mild gingivitis. Feeding 18 mg/kg/day of AGE for 8 weeks resulted in the improvement of gingival index score, level of volatile sulfur compounds in exhaled air, and enzyme activity of periodontal pathogens without any adverse effects on clinical signs and hematological and serum biochemical parameters. Moreover, AGE increased the concentration of salivary cathelicidin, an antimicrobial peptide that contributes to the oral innate immune response. These results suggest that AGE could be a potential therapeutic agent for canine gingivitis.

The preconception health status of nongravid women aged 18 to 45 years in Arima, Trinidad: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundPreconception care (PCC) is the term used for activities and interventions designed to address and prevent problems related to pregnancy, the neonatal period and childhood. This study assessed maternal health status prior to conception in Trinidad by means of a screening tool, physical measurements, and laboratory samples.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among women aged 18–45 years at a primary care centre in Arima, Trinidad. A de novo PCC screening tool was used to assess 13 domains of high-risk pregnancy in participants. These domains included dietary details, gynaecological and obstetric histories, and genetic and vaccination histories, among others. Blood pressure, weight, height, and waist circumference were recorded, and a capillary blood sample was used to determine random blood glucose and HbA1c levels. All data were coded and entered into SPSS ver. 21.ResultsA total of 400 nongravid participants were recruited, of whom 366 were included in the final analysis. Most (96.7%) had one or more risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes. These included overweight (27%), obesity (35%), central obesity (69.4%), and impaired glucose tolerance/diabetes mellitus (IGT/DM) (26.2%). Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle and diet high in processed food/fats were self-reported by 74.9% and 88.8% of participants, respectively. Only 13.1% had planned to conceive, and of those who had no immediate plans to conceive, 76.4% were currently sexually active, and many (60.7%) did not use birth control techniques. More than half (57.1%) had never had a pap smear. On the other hand, 86.3% knew their HIV status. Self-reported percentages for vaccination were as follows: MMR (100%), tetanus (17.5%), hepatitis B (11.5%) and influenza (2.7%). The majority (82.8%) of participants had not visited the dentist in the past year, with 35.9% of these individuals reporting symptoms of periodontitis. Segments of the population had multiple risk factors; for example, 23.7% of participants were overweight or obese and had an elevated HbA1c level.ConclusionsUnexpectedly, most participants had a risk factor for an adverse pregnancy outcome, and many had multiple risk factors. There is a strong case for enhanced preconception care for women in Trinidad.