Tertiary Care Dental Hospital Research Articles

Molecular Detection of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus in Dental Plaque Samples in Children Aged Six to Nine Years.

Context Dental caries is a widespread threat, usually in children, although it has been observed at other stages of life. Various pieces of literature have confirmed the prevalence of S treptococcus mutans and S treptococcus sobrinus in the progression of the disease. However, establishing procedures to detect these species remains a challenge, posing a barrier to treatment plans. Aim The aim of this study is to detect the species in dental plaque samples from children aged six to nine years by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and correlate their prevalence in various dentitions. Material andMethods This is an observational analytical cross-sectional study conducted in a tertiary care dental hospital. After sample isolation, microbiological processing was performed, genomic DNA was isolated, and PCR run was performed using specific primers to detect the species. SPSS for Windows Version 17 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) and Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA, USA) were used to perform statistical analysis. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The technique could identify S. Mutans and S. Sobrinus in a short turnaround time. The frequency of S. mutans and S. sobrinus infections was higher in individuals with dental caries. Conclusions Molecular detection via PCR is a reliable, economical, and less time-consuming method for detecting S. mutans and S. sobrinus in dental plaque samples.

Self-Perceived Halitosis and Related Factors Among the Mask-Wearing Population During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Delhi, India: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction Halitosis (oral malodor) is a common health condition throughout the world. In India, data on self-reported halitosis and related factors is limited. Mouth mask usage has been made compulsory after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This could possibly alter oral microflora and environmentand contribute to halitosis. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of self-perceived halitosis (SPH) among mask-wearing patients visiting a tertiary care dental hospital in Delhi, India. Methods A cross‑sectional study was conducted among a convenience sample of 300 patients visiting a tertiary care dental hospital in the capital of India. SPH status was measured using a self-designed and structured questionnaire containing socio-demographic factors, mask-related habits, and self-perceived oral health status. Statistical analysis was done using Jamovi software (The jamovi project,Sydney, Australia) version 1.8. Descriptive analysis followed by a chi-square test and a multivariate logistic regression test was applied. Results Bad breath was perceived by 86 study subjects. Of the participants,16.7% felt that they had bad breath before the pandemic, and 38% of the participants had an increased perception or feeling of bad breath since regular mask usage. Of the participants,42.7% felt that they had an increased feeling of dryness in the mouth post-pandemic. SPH status was associated with mask usage frequency (p<0.001), change (p<0.001)and type of mask (p=0.004), increased feeling of dryness (p<0.001), frequency of toothbrushing (p<0.001), self-reported oral disease (p=0.007), and dental treatment in the past 12 months (p=0.005). Conclusion The SPH status of the study population was associated with mask-related habits and self-reported oral health status. The findings highlight the importance of possible amendments in preventive and curative care for patients with halitosis post-COVID-19 pandemic.

Clinico pathological study of Odontogenic cysts and tumors in a Tertiary care Dental hospital of Nepal

Background: Diagnosis of odontogenic cysts and tumours requires detailed clinical, radiographical, and histopathological findings. Fourth edition WHO 2017, classification of Head and Neck lesions, reclassified odontogenic cysts and tumours. Objectives: To know relative frequency of odontogenic cysts and tumours according to WHO 2017 classification and to know their clinico-pathological characteristics in selected population of Nepal. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was done in 163 biopsies. Data were obtained conveniently from records of patients diagnosed with odontogenic cysts and tumours from April 2014-2021. Cases with complete clinical details were included whereas non-odontogenic cysts, oral soft tissue, and salivary gland lesions were excluded. Reclassification according to WHO 2017 classification was done. Age, gender, site, clinical presentations, and histological type were analysed using SPSS v.21. Results: In total of 163 biopsies, 120 (73.62%) cases were of odontogenic cysts and 43 (26.38%) cases were of odontogenic tumours. The mean age of occurrence for cysts was 33.35 ± 16.67 years and for tumours was 28.91 ± 13.96 years. Radicular cyst (49/120, 40.83%) and conventional ameloblastoma (23/43 53.48%) were the commonest cysts and tumours. Male (67/120, 55.83%) and female (24/43, 55.81%) predisposition was seen in cysts and tumours. Mandibular middle and posterior region were commonly affected in both cysts (58/162, 35.8%) and tumours (38/53, 71.7%). Conclusion: Increased frequency of radicular cysts and conventional ameloblastoma were appreciated with male predisposition in tumours and female predisposition in cysts. Both cysts and tumours were common in second to third decade of life affecting middle and posterior region of mandible.

Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders among Patients Attending the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology of a Tertiary Care Dental Hospital: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study.

Despite oral cancer being a common cancer in Nepal, little is known about oral potentially malignant disorders which have a high likelihood of malignant transformation. This study aims to find out the prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders among patients attending the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology of a tertiary care dental hospital. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 611 patients from 14th January, 2021 to 15th July, 2021 at the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology of a tertiary care centre after receiving ethical clearance from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: 2306202002). Convenience sampling was done. Patients aged 18 years and above were enrolled into the study. Follow-up cases and patients requiring emergency treatment were, however, excluded. All demographic data, cancer and dietary history and clinical examinations were recorded. Descriptive analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 22.0. Point estimate was done at a 95% Confidence Interval for frequency and percentages for binary data. Among 611 total participants, the prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders was found to be 26 (4.25%) (2.65-5.85 at a 95% Confidence Interval), where males were 19 (73.07%), females were 7 (26.92%), and 23 (88.46%) of them had history of consuming various forms of tobacco, areca nut, and alcohol. The prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders in this hospital-based study was found to be lower than previous studies conducted in similar settings. Nepal; oral cancer; prevalence; tobacco.

Estimating the Need for Sedation in Patients with Dental Anxiety and Medical Complexities Reporting to Tertiary Care Dental Hospital Using the IOSN Tool.

Objectives To provide consistent method for assessment of sedation need among patients undergoing dental treatment based on specific risk factors that is dental anxiety, medical status, and treatment complexity of needed dental treatment using IOSN (indication of sedation need) tool for assisting the clinician in decision making process. Methods A total of 237 patients aged ≥12, ASA I and II were enrolled in the study. A structured questionnaire comprising of three sections was distributed among the participants. Section 1 comprises details about age, gender, literacy level, occupation, monthly income, and previous dental treatment history. Section 2 is based on Modified Dental Anxiety Scale which is a questionnaire comprising of five questions ranging from “not anxious” to “extremely anxious.” The third section was based on using the IOSN tool comprising three components: MDAS (Modified Dental Anxiety Scale) rank score, Systemic Health (ASA status) rank score, and treatment complexity rank scores. The total of three scores was then computed to determine the total rank score which suggested the sedation need. History of past traumatic dental experiences was also inquired from each patient. Results A total of 237 patients aged ≥12, ASA I and II were enrolled in the study, out of which 56.1% were female. Statistical analysis was conducted by using the IBM SPSS Statistics 23 software. Based on the MDAS score, 47/237 (19.8%) participants were found to be highly anxious related to dental procedures. 34.6% of the participants showed to have a high sedation need while performing a dental procedure. The sedation need was found to be significantly associated with the female gender with a significant p value of (p=0.016), higher education status (p=0.016), and history of previous traumatic dental experience (p < 0.001). Conclusion A simple assessment tool can enable clinicians in their decision making to identify patients in need for dental treatment under sedation based on patient-specific risk factors such as past traumatic dental experiences. Need for sedation can be assessed by information on patient anxiety level towards dental treatment, medical history, and complexity of planned dental treatment. The IOSN tool is a simple and quick assessment tool that can be applied for preprocedural assessment of sedation need for dental treatment.

Scanning Electron Microscopic Comparative Analysis of Smear Layer Removal using Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid and Chitosan Activated by Ultrasonics and Diode Laser

Context: The inorganic component of the smear layer is traditionally removed using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Aims: This study was done to compare the ability of smear layer removal by ultrasonic activation and diode laser activation of EDTA with Chitosan – which is a novel nanoparticle-based chelating agent. Settings and Design: Prospective in vitro experimental study conducted in a tertiary care Dental college and hospital for 6 months. Subjects and Methods: Seventy-five mandibular premolars with single canal were decoronated to standardize the root length to 14 mm. Canals were prepared up to Protaper F3 and the specimens were randomly divided into three groups and two subgroups based on the irrigation protocol. Group A (Normal saline), Group B1 and B2 (ultrasonically activated–EDTA and Chitosan, respectively), Group C1 and C2 (Diode laser-activated– EDTA and Chitosan, respectively). Samples were processed for scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis. Photographs were taken in the apical, middle, and coronal thirds. Data were collected using Gutmann's scoring criteria. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test (P &lt; 0.05). Results: Diode laser-activated EDTA had the highest efficacy of smear layer removal at the coronal third. In the middle and apical third, ultrasonically activated EDTA had the highest efficacy. Conclusions: Chitosan may be considered as an alternative to EDTA, in the removal of smear layer considering the drawbacks of EDTA.

Cost Calculation of a Tertiary Care Referral Dental Center Using Activity-Based Costing Method

Background: Economic evaluations in dentistry provide policymakers with information to facilitate efficient resource allocation. Dentistry involves multiple activities for one treatment outcome. This original research aims to calculate direct treatment and indirect costs for dental services provided at tertiary care referral dental center. Materials and Methods: The present original study reporting is done based on using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards statement in dentistry, the basic dental services provided are divided into direct (revenue-generating) and indirect cost centers (nonrevenue generating) using activity-based costing (ABC) method. The total cost generated is calculated by aggregating the sum of direct and indirect cost incurred and unit cost is calculated by dividing total cost obtained by the number of units. Data are analyzed using Microsoft Excel worksheet. Results: Cost calculated using ABC method differed significantly from the tariff method. The major cost components varied are human resources (848,000 INR), capital costs (3,008,500 INR), and material costs (200,000 INR). Conclusion: At a tertiary care dental hospital level, we must provide patient's perspective care that is respectful of and responsive to individual patient preferences, needs, and values and ensuring that patient values guide all clinical decisions. By taking correct economic managerial decisions using ABC and budgeting the resources to dental services, the community can approach with true patient costs at an acceptable level of quality and at the least possible cost.

Determination of Most Frequent Emergencies in Patients with Fixed and Removable Orthodontic Appliances at Tertiary Care Dental Hospital

OBJECTIVES: To determine the frequency of emergencies in patients with fixed and removable orthodontic appliances at tertiary care dental hospital. METHODOLOGY: A questionnaire was designed for this descriptive cross-sectional study to be filled by the clinician (L3/L4 FCPS resident) at the end of addressing every orthodontic emergency. Sampling was done under consecutive non-probability protocols. Descriptive statistics were applied to determine the frequency of different orthodontic emergencies, and Pearson’s chi-square test was applied to determine association of emergencies with gender and etiology of emergency (patient related vs operator related). Data was analyzed on SPSS version 20. RESULTS: A total of 175 patients reported with orthodontic emergencies. The sample comprised 38.3% males and 61.7% females. Most frequent orthodontic emergency reported was deboned brackets in fixed appliances, while the most common emergency in removable appliances was traumatic PNAM. A statistically significant association (Pearson’s Chi Square=4.74, Cramer’s V=0.165, p=0.029) was seen for removable and fixed appliance emergencies with males and females. CONCLUSION: Most frequent fixed appliance orthodontic emergencies were deboned brackets while for removable appliance emergencies were trauma due to PNAM. Emergencies with removable appliances were mostly due to the operator related factors, while in fixed appliances patient related factors were dominating.

Factors Affecting Awareness of Oral Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study from a One-Day Free Consultation Camp in Karachi

Background: Oral cancer is currently one of the major public health problems globally. Awareness of the risk factors of oral cancers may result in patients seeking medical advice earlier, which in turn can lead to early detection and a better prognosis of such lesions. Literature also reports lack of awareness to be the most common barrier to care-seeking by oral cancer patients. Objective: To determine oral cancer awareness and its associated factors among dental outpatients in a tertiary care hospital in Karachi. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care dental hospital in district Malir, Karachi, from January 2019 to June 2019. After checking eligibility and taking verbal informed consent, the participants were interviewed using a questionnaire to assess their oral cancer awareness. Data were analyzed on SPSS version 20. Crude and adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval were computed using binary logistic regression to determine the association of demographic characteristics with awareness. Results: The median age of study participants was 37 (IQR=45-29) years whereas 105 (65.2%) of them were female. The mean awareness score of the participants was 8.94±2.71. Moreover, only 34 (21.1%) participants had adequate awareness whereas 127 (78.9%) had inadequate awareness regarding oral cancer. In a multivariable model, education of the patients was found to be associated with adequate awareness regarding oral cancer. Conclusion: It was concluded that certain gaps exist in the awareness of dental outpatients regarding oral cancer, and apart from the education, none of their demographic characteristics significantly influenced it.

Determination of Reference Intervals for Platelet Parameters using Sysmex XN-1000 among South Indian Population

Introduction: Reference intervals are important for interpretation of clinical laboratory tests. The platelet parameters are recently reported newer haematological parameters and serve as clinically valuable biomarkers. It provides further information on platelet morphology and proliferation kinetics. The lack of information from manufacturers about the geographical reference ranges for the Complete Blood Count (CBC) parameters highlights the need for laboratories to establish reference intervals. Aim: To determine the reference interval for platelet parameters using Sysmex XN-1000 haematology analyser in South Indian population. Materials and Methods: The present retrospective recordbased study was carried out during July 2021 to September 2021 and the data was retrieved from a continuous 12-month period (November 2018-October 2019) in the haematology laboratory at a tertiary care dental hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. The data of CBC parameters were retrieved from the Sysmex XN-1000 analyser and a total of 1,883 reports labelled as negative/ unflagged were included in the study. The reference intervals for platelet parameters which include Mean Platelet Volume (MPV), Platelet Distribution Width (PDW), Platelet Large Cell Ratio (P-LCR) and Plateletcrit (PCT) for male and female subjects were compared using the Mann-Whitney U-test. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare between the different age groups using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 software. Results: The data for the platelet parameters are shown as median, with statistically significant difference in the reference interval for all the parameters (p&lt;0.001). There was no significant difference in age divided reference intervals, except for PCT (p=0.04) PDW was found to be 9-16.4 fL for males and 9.1-16.6 fL for females (p&lt;0.001). Similarly, MPV was 9-12.3 fL for males and 9-12.6 fL for females (p&lt;0.001); P-LCR was 16-42.1% for males and 16.6-43% for females (p&lt;0.001); and PCT was 0.15- 0.36% for males and 0.14-0.41% for females (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: The study has determined the reference interval for platelet parameters with respect to age and gender in area specific population and these results can be utilised for other laboratories using the same analyser system for south Indian population.

Feasibility of the novel ‘Tobacco-Free Hospital’ model and its compliance assessment at a tertiary care hospital of New Delhi, India

Tobacco is one of the biggest threats to the public health. Tobacco harms not only human health but also the environment. The Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) was implemented in India in 2003. Compliance of these laws in public places is mandatory. This study presents an innovative model to make hospitals tobacco-free. The aim is to assess the effectiveness of implementation of tobacco-free hospitals among security guards, tobacco users, and key observers visiting a tertiary care dental hospital through a comprehensive strategy. An exploratory study was conducted in three phases. Structured training was organized for all security guards (n = 25) along with pre- and post-assessment using a validated questionnaire. All the patients and attendants entering the hospital were screened for tobacco products by security guards. Those patients who were carrying tobacco products to the hospital (n = 107) were interviewed using a validated questionnaire. Opinions of key observers (n = 223) who witnessed the event were also recorded. Descriptive statistics (means, frequency distribution) and inferential statistics (Chi-square test) were calculated. At the baseline, only 20% security guards were aware about tobacco legislations, whereas after 1 month, more than 80% security guards were aware about the laws. Around two-third of study participants of both the groups were aware of COTPA Section 4. Approximately 33.6% of tobacco users and 58.4% of key observers were aware of COTPA Section 6b. Forty tobacco users in the study availed tobacco cessation services of the hospital. Every staff should be a torch bearer of tobacco control. The study highlights a comprehensive approach of integrating hospital staff and linking vital cessation services by implementing Sections of COTPA.

Patient’s expectation of orthodontic treatment attending tertiary care dental hospital in Kathmandu

Introduction: Understanding of patient’s expectation and attitude towards orthodontic treatment plays an importantrole towards a successful treatment outcome and behavioral management. Materials and Method: All the patients (270) attending department of Orthodontics in Nepal Medical College for the first time were included in the study. The descriptive study is done. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain the socio-demographic information and responses to questions on their expectation of orthodontic treatment. Results: Majority of the respondents had higher expectations on aesthetic outcome of orthodontic treatment than the functional outcomes. They expected to have better smile, teeth straightened and have confidence socially. The lowest mean scores were obtained in the domains of improvement in career and making speech easier. Females had significant higher scores than male participants in all domains explored with the mean highest score in the domain of better smiles; while the highest male mean score was in the domain of straightened teeth. Conclusion: To achieve successful orthodontic treatment result, patient cooperation is necessary. Agreeing with the patient on realistic expected treatment outcomes by the orthodontist before the treatment is required so that they are not disappointed with the final appearance.

Measurements of Dimensions of Nasopalatine Canal Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Patients Reporting to A Local Tertiary Care Dental Hospital in Lahore

Objective: To measure the mean length and width of NPC in patients reporting to Fatima Memorial hospital Lahore, for implant surgery. Methods: This crossectional study was conducted at Department of Periodontology, Fatima Memorial Hospital, Lahore. Fatima Memorial Hospital is a tertiary care dental hospital affiliated with University of Health Sciences. After taking informed written consent history was taken, clinical examination was done and CBCT from SIRONA CBCT machine will be taken to assess the outcome i.e the mean length and width of NPC. Result: Total of 72 patients requiring CBCT for dental procedures were included. 38 patients were males (52.8%) &amp; 34 patients were females (47.2%) with the mean age of 40.944+7.507 years. The mean length and width of Nasopalatine canal (NPC) was 8.787+1.534 mm and 3.919+0.738 mm respectively. Conclusion: Significant differences in nasopalatine canal length and width were observed among the patients and CBCT was useful in determining nasopalatine canal length and width before implant placement Key words: Cone-Beam Computed Tomography; nasopalatine canal, length, width

Co-Relation of Gingival Biotype (Periodontal Phenotype) with Width of Keratinized Gingiva in Maxillary Anterior Teeth in Patients Reporting to a Local Tertiary Care Dental Hospital

Objective: To find out the correlation of gingival biotype with width of keratinized gingiva in maxillary anterior teeth in patients at tertiary care dental hospital presenting for routine periodontal care. Materials And Methods: In this crossectional study, a total of 87 patients were observed in department of Periodontology, Fatima Memorial Hospital College of Medicine and Dentistry Lahore. The gingival biotype (gingival thickness) were determined by using the transparency of the periodontal probe through gingival sulcus. The width of the keratinized gingiva was measured by measuring the distance between the most coronal point of the gingival margin and the mucogingival junction measured at the midpoint of the vestibular face of the teeth using a Michigan O periodontal probe with William’s markings. Results: In this study mean age was 38 years with SD ± 10.88. Forty six percent patients were male and 54% patients were female. Mean width of keratinized gingiva was 4.22mm ± 1.10 while mean gingival biotype was 1.5 mm ± 0.65. The correlation coefficient r=0.277 shows a positive correlation of width of keratinized gingiva with gingival biotype Conclusion: The study concluded that there is a positive correlation of gingival biotype with width of keratinized gingiva in maxillary anterior teeth. Keywords: gingival biotype, width of keratinized gingival, maxillary anterior teeth

Extra canal in permanent maxillary first molar in patients undergoing root canal treatment at a tertiary care dental hospital, Nepal

Background: Permanent maxillary first molar normally has three root canals but it can have extra root canals for which several studies were done in many parts of the globe. However, this type of study to explore extra canal is lagging in the context of Nepal. Objectives: The objective was to determine the percentage of extra canal in permanent maxillary first molar in patients undergoing root canal treatment and to compare the same between male and female. Methods: The descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of conservative dentistry and endodontics of People’s Dental College and Hospital from 20th December 2019 to 20th December 2020 after receiving ethical approval from Nepal Health Research Council on 18th December 2019 (ERB protocol No 888/2019) . One hundred and eighty permanent maxillary first molar teeth without root canal calcification were enrolled. Convenient sampling was done. Access opening was done and all canal orifices were located and recorded. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0 with frequency table. Chi-square test was used for inferential statistics. Results: Out of 180 teeth, extra canals were present in 44(24.4%) having more numbers in male than in females. Extra canal was present in the mesiobuccal root. Conclusion: Extra canal in the permanent maxillary first molar is present in Nepalese population with greater number in male than in female. Thus, exploration of the pulp chamber in search of an extra canal is necessary to prevent failure of root canal treatment.

Evaluation of perceptions of tobacco cessation among the individuals attending a tertiary care dental hospital: A mixed methods design

Evaluation of perceptions of tobacco cessation among the individuals attending a tertiary care dental hospital: A mixed methods design

Oral Mucosal Lesions' propensity as an Outcome Eventuated by Exhaled Carbon Monoxide (CO) Levels and Nicotine Dependency.

Objective:This study aims to assess the correlation of exhaled CO and nicotine dependence with the occurrence of oral mucosal lesions while also taking into consideration socio-demographic, clinical and anthropometrical characteristics of participants. Methods:An observational cross-sectional study was carried out among smokers who visited the tobacco cessation center at Tertiary Care Dental Hospital in Goa, India. An intra-oral soft tissue examination for detecting presence of oral mucosal lesions followed by a questionnaire-based interview for the measurement of exposure, sociodemographic factors, body mass index, cooking habits and nicotine dependence was conducted. The exhaled CO levels were measured with a CO breath analyzer. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 20.0 Descriptive statistics were calculated and multivariable analysis was done to assess the association of different variables with oral mucosal lesions and carbon monoxide levels. p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results:Of the 173 subjects enrolled in the study, 69.36% were without any lesions while 30.63% were diagnosed with some lesion. In the regression analysis, the variables of physical activity (present vs absent OR: 5.808), exhaled CO levels (OR: 1.098) and nicotine dependence (mild vs moderate OR: 6.518) were significant risk factors influencing the presence of oral mucosal lesions. Usage of both cigarettes and bidis by smokers exhibited highest mean exhaled CO values of 19.67±1.506 ppm. Exhaled CO levels were significantly higher in smokers who were overweight (14.96±9.14 ppm), physically inactive (13.98±8.26 ppm), highly nicotine dependent (20.67±8.30) and used coal for cooking (12.55±8.17). Conclusion:A robust correlation between exhaled CO levels, nicotine dependence and incidence of oral mucosal lesions was established. The multifactorial tenacity of exhaled CO which is affected by smoked tobacco as well as variables such as physical activity, BMI, cooking habits and type of smoking habit should be noted.

Evaluation of Perceptions of Tobacco Cessation among the Individuals Attending a Tertiary Care Dental Hospital - A Mixed Methods Design.

Introduction:In India every year, an estimated 1 million people die from tobacco-related illnesses, which could have been avoided by stopping tobacco use. This study aimed to determine the tobacco dependence and perceptions about tobacco cessation among the patients attending a tertiary care dental hospital. Methods:A mixed-methods study was conducted among the individuals visiting the dental hospital. Self-administered questionnaires were used to record quantitative data on the current and past tobacco history, tobacco dependence, and quit attempts. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to collect qualitative data on the perceptions on tobacco quitting. Results:About 52% of participants had made an attempt to quit tobacco in the past. The majority of the smokers (82.7%), smokeless tobacco (SLT) users (71.3%), and dual users (83.1%) reported being in the contemplation phase of quitting tobacco. SLT users (12.3%) reported to have taken action in the past to quit tobacco compared to 9.6% smokers, and 1.4% of dual users. Doctors advise, motivation from family and friends motivated the participants to quit tobacco. The risk perception of tobacco use was reported as death, cancer, dental diseases, systemic diseases like chest congestion, cough, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and general body weakness. However, some of the participants were unaware of the methods to quit tobacco, some had misconceptions that shifting to other forms of tobacco and alcohol could help in quitting, and considered SLT to be less harmful than smoking forms.Conclusion:Majority of the participants were willing to quit tobacco and had taken measures to quit in the past. There is a need to increase the awareness among the tobacco users about the health risk of tobacco use, and motivate them to utilize the existing cessation services available.

Earrings: An Obscured Source of Cross- Contamination in Dental Clinics of India

Purpose: This study aimed to check for the bacterial contamination of earrings worn by female dentists involved in direct patient care.&#x0D; Method: This cross-sectional microbiological study was carried out among female dentists working in clinical departments of a tertiary care dental hospital. A questionnaire concerning awareness regarding the donning of ornaments as possible source of contamination was administered. It also included questions on measures taken to prevent cross contamination through earrings and methods for disinfection of earrings used if any. Two swabs from each participant were taken, one from the earring and other from the underlying skin site using a sterile microbial swab moistened in saline. The samples were then dispensed into 1 ml of sterile water by vortexing for 45s. The vortexed sample was then inoculated onto Blood Agar. The inoculated plates were incubated for 24 hours at 37˚C aerobically. Further examination was done for the count of bacteria, type of bacteria and antibiotic sensitivity.&#x0D; Result: In total 90 swabs, 45 each from earring and underlying skin were cultured for microorganisms. All the (100%) samples were positive for bacterial contamination. The swabs obtained from underlying skin sites were found to have significantly higher microbial load. (p-value = 0.008). Sixty two percent (62%) of the participants were aware of earrings being a possible source of contamination and 55% had the knowledge that ornaments are supposed to be removed while working in patient clinics. Only 5% practiced removing the ornaments which included bangles/bracelets, rings and watches. None reported to have removed earrings while working in clinics.&#x0D; Conclusion: The results of this study show that earrings are potential source of cross contamination in a dental setting. This can act as nidus for colonization of bacteria and possible source for nosocomial infections and pathogenic transmission.

English

BACKGROUND During the lockdown period of COVID-19 pandemic, dental colleges in Bangalore, India, had switched to online dental education and when the cases started to decline, the dental colleges finally welcomed students on campus in November 2020 following the Government directions. Majority of the dental procedures produce droplets and aerosols in a dental practice. In this context, the standard protective measures are not enough in the daily dental practice during this pandemic. Dental professionals, students in particular should be aware of the main symptoms of COVID-19, its mode of transmission and precautions to be adopted in the dental practice so as to break the chain of infection. The purpose of the study was to investigate the perception regarding COVID-19 among the dental students of a dental teaching institution in Bangalore city. METHODS An online questionnaire was created to assess the perception about COVID-19 among dental students. Total enumeration method was followed, and undergraduates, interns and post graduate students of a tertiary care dental hospital participated in the online survey. chi-square goodness of fit test was used to compare the differences in the distribution of respondents and independent chi- square test was used to do the comparison in the difference of responses towards the study questionnaire between the students studying in different undergraduate years; with level of significance set at P &lt; 0.05. RESULTS About 380 dental students participated in the online survey; correct response rate was slightly higher among clinical dental students than pre-clinical students. Educational and training programmes related to COVID-19, infection control and practices were implemented at the institution for the dental professionals in the academic level. CONCLUSIONS The perception about COVID-19 among pre-clinical dental students were slightly lower than the clinical students. KEY WORDS Clinical, COVID-19, Dental Students, Pre-Clinical