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Background: Bicortical engagement is the engagement of nasal cortical plate and basal cortical plate in maxillary and mandibular esthetic zone, respectively. These are longer implants which offer osseointegration along with high osseofixation. Increased length of implant provides increased bone–implant contact offering primary stability which permits immediate loading. Aim: The aim of the study was to clinicoradiographically evaluate immediate loading in bicortically engaged long implants in maxillary and mandibular esthetic region. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients with missing teeth in esthetic region were selected for the study. Implants were placed in both arches engaging nasal cortex and basal bone wherever required. One-time definitive abutment was placed and immediate loading was done. Results: No failure was observed in the study period of 9 months. The mean insertion and reverse torque was 66.67 ± 6.794 and 41.67 ± 3.101, respectively, indicating high primary stability. No pain, discomfort, infection, or implant mobility was observed. The mean crestal bone loss changes were statistically insignificant. Conclusion: Hundred percent implant survival was observed.

Introduction: Biologic aggressiveness of OSCC (Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma), has intrigued research in various prognosticating histopathological markers over past few decades. DOI (Depth of Invasion) is one such histopathological factor which affects outcomes and was included in the AJCC 8th edition TNM staging. Pattern of Invasion (POI) has been widely reported as an adverse prognostic factor associated with higher locoregional failure and poor prognosis. However, these factors are not utilized for treatment decision making and for outcome assessment. Materials and methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 320 patients with OSCC who underwent treatment, from October 2018–February 2020. Clinic demographic details were extracted from electronic medical records. Univariate and multivariate analysis was done for the parameters. WPOI (Worst Pattern of Invasion) was correlated with all histopathological prognostic factors. Survival analysis was done using Kaplan Meier for WPOI type's I–V. DFS (Disease free Survival) was evaluated for different grades of WPOI. Results: We analyzed the results comparing, early and advanced T (Tumor) stages, cohesive WPOI I-III, non-cohesive WPOI IV-V. Univariate analysis showed a significant association of T-stage (p = 0.001), N (Nodal) -stage (p = 0.002), DOI (p = 0.008), PNI (Peri-neural invasion) (0.001) and Tumor differentiation Grade (p = 0.001). On multivariate analysis, non-cohesive WPOI (IV & V) showed significant association with grade, PNI, DOI (0.002, 0.033 & 0.033 respectively). Non-cohesive WPOI had significantly higher locoregional failures and short DFS. Conclusion: Presence of invasive WPOI is associated with advanced T stage, poor differentiation, PNI, greater depth of invasion, and higher chances of nodal metastasis. WPOI is associated with poor DFS, treatment intensification in early stage disease with WPOI type IV & V may improve survival.

Aim or Purpose: The “Value for Visits” approach, adapted from the Value Based Oral Health Care (VBOHC) Model was introduced by Monash Health Dental Services in 2020. The VBOHC model provides better oral health outcomes for MHDS‘ clients. The aim of this study was to assess the VBOHC model by reviewing and comparing courses of care outcomes before and after the model's implementation. Materials and Methods: All general courses of care (CoC) in 2019 and 2022 were audited, and a review of courses of care was conducted. The 2019 CoCs included solely patients whose treatment had begun prior to COVID-19 restrictions being imposed.Analysis involved investigating 10 CoCs for each clinician working at an MDHS dental clinic. The review did not include new staff (less than 3 months) or staff primarily working in the School Dental program. A thorough auditing was conducted into the ways in which general oral health care was provided to public patients. Results: In 2019 the total number of clients seen was 4240 with an average patient receiving 4.05 appointments over 6.37 months, and seeing 2.61 clinicians. In 2022, under the VBOHC model, the total number of clients seen was 5644. The average number of appointments to complete a CoC was 2.70 over 5.39 months. The number of clinicians seen was 1.10. Conclusions: Data showed that after implementation of the VBOHC model there was improvement in the efficiency of oral health care provision. Full implementation of the model would provide superior continuity of care, and overall better oral health outcomes for public dental patients.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate and compare the distribution of stress and displacement of teeth during mandibular arch distalization using buccal shelf screws. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three three-dimensional finite element models of mandibular arch were constructed with third molars extracted. Models 1, 2, and 3 were constructed on the basis of the lever arm heights of 0 mm, 3 mm, and 6 mm, respectively, between the lateral incisor and canine. A buccal shelf screw was placed at the area in the second molar region with the initial point of insertion being inter-dental between the first and second molars and 2 mm below the mucogingival junction. MBT pre-adjusted brackets (slot size 0.022 × 0.028”) were placed over the clinical crown's center with a 0.019 × 0.025” stainless-steel archwire on three models. A retraction force of 300 g was applied with buccal shelf screws and a lever arm bilaterally using nickel-titanium closed coil springs. The displacement of each tooth was calculated on X, Y, and Z axes, and the von Mises stress distribution was visualized using color-coded scales using ANSYS 12.1 software. RESULT: The maximum von Mises stress in the cortical and cancellous bones was observed in model 1. The maximum von Mises stress in the buccal shelf screw and the cortical bone decreased as the height of the lever arm increased. Applying orthodontic forces at the level of 6 mm lever arm height resulted in greater biomechanical bodily movement in distalization of the mandibular molars compared to when the orthodontic forces were applied at the level of 0 mm lever arm height. CONCLUSION: Displacement of the entire arch may be dictated by a direct relationship between the center of resistance of the whole arch and the line of action generated between the buccal shelf screw and force application points at the archwire, which makes the total arch movement highly predictable.

Aim: Calcium hydroxide to date is a widely used intracanal medicament during endodontic treatment. Long duration of exposure of dentin to calcium hydroxide may influence the fracture resistance and microhardness of dentin thereby affecting the tooth. The aim of this review was to identify and systematically analyze the effect of calcium hydroxide on fracture resistance and microhardness of dentin in human teeth. Methods: A PubMed and Scopus search was performed using keywords 'fracture resistance' and 'microhardness' along with Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms 'Calcium hydroxide' and 'dentin' and 'tooth' till 12th March 2022. The reference list of each selected article was also explored to identify additional articles. An inclusion criteria was set that had to be met by each study for it to be selected for the review. Only articles written in English language were included in this systematic review. The review was conducted according to the PRISMA checklist. Results: Ten in-vitro studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included in this review. The findings of majority of studies showed that an exposure duration of more than one month to calcium hydroxide decreased the fracture resistance and microhardness of dentin thereby affecting the strength of the tooth. Further, one week of exposure to calcium hydroxide did not show any significant change in fracture resistance. Conclusion: Based on the analysis of the studies included in this review, it can be concluded that increased duration of exposure of dentin to calcium hydroxide negatively affects the fracture resistance and microhardness, thereby weakening the tooth.

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of Punica granatum mouthrinse as compared to 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX) on periodontal health. Settings and Design: This was a randomized controlled trial among patients aged ≥40 years selected from the outpatient department of Sudha Rustagi College of Dental Sciences and Research. Methodology: Fifty subjects diagnosed with chronic generalized gingivitis were selected and randomly divided into two groups, i.e., P. granatum mouthrinse group and CHX group. The mouthrinse extract was prepared using peel of P. granatum fruit. Patients were advised to use their prescribed mouthwash for 21 days. Clinical evaluation was done at baseline, 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days using the gingival index and the plaque index. Statistical Analysis Used: SPSS Inc 21 software (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) was used. For inferential statistics, Friedman test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and Mann–Whitney U-test were used. Results: There was significant improvement in gingival status in both the sites. Subjects using P. granatum rinse showed significant improvement in gingival scores as compared with CHX. In contrast, P. granatum was shown not to be so effective in reducing plaque scores. Conclusions: P. granatum rinse is beneficial in improving gingival status due to its profound styptic action, with sufficient reduction in plaque scores.

Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical and microbiological effects of subgingival administration of 1% chlorhexidine gel (Chlorhexamed® 1% gel) in patients with chronic periodontitis. Settings and Design: The study was done in a parallel-arm design with a total of 30 patients with 60 sites suffering from chronic periodontitis. The patients were divided into control and experimental groups. Materials and Methods: The clinical parameters recorded were plaque index, gingival index, modified sulcular bleeding index, probing pocket depth and relative attachment level at baseline, 1 month and 3 month. Microbiological colony-forming units were assessed for Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Tannerella forsythia at baseline, 1 week, 1 month and 3 months. The control group received scaling and root planing (SRP) after baseline evaluation; however, the experimental group received the application of Chlorhexamed® gel within 48 hours after SRP. Then, the values obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Results: Both groups showed significant improvement from the baseline to 3 months in all clinical and microbiological parameters. The experimental group showed better improvement in all parameters. Conclusion: The use of Chlorhexamed® gel has proven to be an efficacious adjunct with SRP in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Objectives: This study investigates the estimation of the fluoride concentration in drinking water in Rohtak district, Haryana, and quantifies its effect on the prevalence of dental fluorosis and dental caries. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1262 school children in endemic fluoride areas of Haryana. Using simple random sampling, thirty villages from five blocks of Rohtak districts were selected, and children 6–12 years of age were examined. A questionnaire survey form was filled out to record the demographic details of the samples. Dental caries was recorded according to DMFT (D = Decayed, M = Missing due to caries only, F = Filled, T = Teeth)/deft index (d = decayed, e = extracted due to caries, f = filled, t = teeth). Assessment of Dental Fluorosis was done according to Dean's Fluorosis index, modified in 1942. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 19, and nonparametric tests were used to assess the significance. Results: The study participants included 615 males and 647 females among which Mean DMFT in the area of study ranged from 0.32 to 1.90. Mean deft in the area of study ranged from 0.34 to 1.91. The fluoride concentrations in groundwater are in the range of 0.532–8.802. Out of 1262 children examined, 655 (51.90%) children were having dental fluorosis. 607 (48.10%) of the subjects were free from fluorosis. 16.09%, 13.39%, 9.11%, and 8.16% and 5.15% were having questionable, very mild, mild, moderate, and severe form of fluorosis, respectively. Conclusion: It can be concluded that in Rohtak district, the fluoride levels in drinking water and the prevalence of dental fluorosis are high, so requiring an urgent need to improve the quality of water and institute de-fluoridation of drinking water in affected areas to lower the burden of dental fluorosis in the community.

Aim: To comparatively evaluate in vitro the cyclic fatigue resistance of different file systems based on different manufacturing technologies after exposure to NaOCl and multiple sterilization cycles. Materials and Methods: Sixty new Nickel − Titanium (NiTi) rotary files were selected and divided into five groups (n = 12) based on different manufacturing technology. These groups were: Protaper Universal (GPT) (DentsplyMaillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) Protaper Next (GPTN) (Dentsply, Tulsa, OK, USA), Twisted files (GTF) (Sybron Endo, Orange, CA, USA), Neoniti (GNL) (Neolix, France), and Hyflex CM (GHCM) (Coltene/whaledent inc., 235 Ascort Parkway, Cuyahoga falls, OH, USA). Files were sterilized in an autoclave at 121°C at 15 psi for 15 min and exposed to 5.0% NaOCl solution for 30 s before cyclic fatigue testing till instrument fracture using a standardized grooved block assembly with the artificial canal at 90° angle of curvature using a 16:1 reduction hand-piece powered by a torque-controlled motor. This whole procedure of autoclaving, immersion in sodium hypochlorite solution and rotating in a stainless steel assembly was repeated again and again until the file fractured. Results: The highest mean for the number of cycles before fracture was observed with Neoniti (GNL) and lowest for Hyflex CM (GHCM). The difference between GPT vs GTF, GPTvs GNL, GNLvs GHCM; GPTNvs GTF, GPTNvs GNL, GPTNvs GHCM; GTFvs GNL, GTFvs GHCM and GNL VS GHCM was statistically significant, whereas the difference between GPTvs GPTN was statistically nonsignificant. Conclusion: Neoniti and twisted file systems resisted the maximum number of cycles to fracture at 90° angle of curvature after exposure to 5% sodium hypochlorite solution and multiple autoclaving cycles. Hyflex CM showed the least resistance in the similar conditions.

Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate and compare the quantity of apical debris extrusion from the root canals during biomechanical preparation by various rotary (reciprocating, Protaper Next [PTN] continuous) and manual hand filing system and by means of Crown-Down and Step Back techniques. Materials and Methods: Eighty mature, human mandibular premolars with single canals were randomly divided into four groups of twenty teeth each. Each group was instrumented using one of the four instrumentation systems: Group A: WaveOne, Group B: PTN, Group C: Hand file with Crown Down, Group D: Hand file with Step Back. Extruded debris was collected in preweighed Eppendorf tubes and the extruded irrigant was evaporated. The weight of the dry extruded debris was established by comparing the pre and post-instrumentation weight of Eppendorf tubes for each group. Results: Mean comparison of groups in different instrumentation by ANOVA presented that hand file with Step-Back technique is showed maximum amount of apical extrusion debris and continuous rotary file system showed the minimum amount of extrusion debris (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The current ex vivo study demonstrated reciprocating single file WaveOne and continuous rotary multiple file system lead to significantly less debris extrusion than manual hand file techniques. Reciprocating single file WaveOne extruded more debris than continuous rotary PTN multiple file system. More amount of debris was extruded in the group with Step-Back hand filing than Crown-Down technique.

A 44-year-old woman complained of neck swelling, discomfort, and swallowing difficulties. She was admitted to the hospital on an emergency basis for incision and drainage. Deep neck space infection was diagnosed using a neck X-ray, ultrasonography, and contrast enhanced computed tomography. The successful anesthetic management of this patient at the Pacific Institute of Medical Sciences in Udaipur is presented here.

Introduction: Oral cancer is one of the ten most common causes of mortality in developing countries like India. A micronucleus (MN) is a small extra nucleus separated from the main one, generated during cellular division by late chromosomes or by chromosome fragments. Micronucleus is a potential biomarker for malignancy. Aim and Objectives: The study attempts to analyze micronuclei in buccal smear from patients with tobacco and related habits; and to determine its reliability as a biomarker for carcinogenesis. Study Design: A total of 400 consisting of normal subjects, patients with potentially malignant lesions and patients with malignant lesions were included in the study. Oral exfoliated cells were collected by scrapings of buccal mucosa of both control and study groups with a tooth brush. The scrapings collected from right and left buccal mucosa of each subject were studied under two separate slides. A total of 500 cells were examined from each slide. All the micronucleus cells located on each slide were examined again under the 100X magnification. Results: The P value for intergroup difference in average number of micronuclei in cells of buccal mucosa among all groups was

Background: Restrictions on routine dental procedures involving aerosols during COVID-19 have resulted in a significant increase in the suffering of pediatric patients. Aim: The study reported the alternative measures followed in our department using SDF during the COVID era when routine elective dental procedures were prohibited. Materials and Methods: The retrospective data of patients aged 2–13 years with carious molar teeth who were treated with silver diamine fluoride without (Group 1) or with (Group 2) caries excavation were collected. Results: One thousand and seventy-two patients (646 males and 426 females) with 2459 carious molar were treated. On follow-up assessment at 3 months, 28 teeth in Group 1 and 21 teeth in Group 2 showed progression of carious lesion using International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS II criteria). Out of these failure cases, 32 (1.8%) teeth were primary and 17 (2.5%) were permanent. Complete relief in sensitivity/pain on stimulation was reported in 2381 teeth (96.83%), whereas in 78 (3.17%) teeth, mild sensitivity/pain on stimulation was reported. The average time consumed during treatment per tooth in Group 1 was 5.04 min and in Group 2 was 5.78 min. Conclusion: SDF application can be carried out as a nonaerosol-generating procedure and is a simple technique for children and clinicians.

Background: Dental students get the chance to experience real-life situations when they are in contact with patients, from whom they learn and enhance their knowledge. As the dental students' perceived professionalism, respect for patient privacy and confidence were significantly related to patients' acceptance of student participation in their care, these social competencies should be a priority in dental curricula. Aims: The aim was to investigate patients' perception regarding dental students' role in surgical treatment procedures. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a randomly selected sample of 148 patients at our college in the department of oral surgery waiting room during the month of March 2019. Subjects and Methods: OpenEpi was used to determine sample size based on the average number of patients who attended the oral surgery department every day for 4 weeks in the month that proceeded data collection with the exclusion of weekend days. A self-administered questionnaire consisted of 17 close-ended questions to allow adult participants to answer and the guardians to answer on behalf of their children. The internal consistency of the questionnaire showed good reliability for participants during the pilot study (Cronbach's alpha: 0.86) and acceptable validity with intraclass correlation coefficient having value of 0.79. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics Windows, Version 20.0 for the generation of descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: It was found that 34.46% of the total participants did not want to allow dental student to watch them, whereas most of the participants (65.54%) would allow dental student to watch them while dental examination. A total of 86.49% believed that dental students should specifically obtain patient consent prior to becoming observers. It was observed that both genders preferred the similar gender dental student. Conclusion: The results showed that most of the surveyed patients had a positive perception of dental students as they accepted dental students' participation in their care.

Regeneration of pulp–dentin complex in an infected necrotic tooth with an open apex is possible if the canal is effectively disinfected. The purpose of this case report is to add regenerative endodontic cases to the existing literature about the use of plateletrich fibrin (PRF). Three clinically and radiographically diagnosed necrotic immature permanent teeth were treated using PRF as a scaffold for revascularization. The therapeutic protocol involved accessing the pulp chamber, irrigating copiously with sodium hypochlorite, applying a triple antibiotic paste as intracanal dressing, and then provisionally sealing it. After 3–4 weeks, the canal was cleaned and PRF was introduced in the canal that would serve as a scaffold for pulp revascularization. Mineral trioxide aggregate was used to seal the chamber and finally restored with composite. All the cases treated with PRF as a scaffold showed magnificant healing and apical end closure along with thickening of dentinal walls. On the basis of the results obtained in our case reports, we conclude that the revitalization of necrotic infected immature tooth is possible under conditions of total canal disinfection, and PRF is nearly an ideal biomaterial for pulp–dentin complex regeneration.

Background: Young children receive no dental care though they are frequently visiting AYUSH workers for routine medical check-ups. These checks-ups can be integrated with oral health to uplift the oral health status of children by taking advantage of an existing network of the workforce who has made roots into the existing society. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of educational intervention on oral health knowledge among AYUSH workers. Materials and Methods: Quasi-experimental study design was used among AYUSH workers registered under RBSK program in the Ganganagar district. A close-ended questionnaire was prepared. The intervention was carried out by a PowerPoint presentation regarding oral health after data collection. The same questionnaire was mailed again to the doctors after 1 month, with 1-week duration to respond back. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square and paired t-test using SPSS v22. Chi-square and paired t-test were used for analysis. P value was considered significant at

Introduction: Oral cancer accounts for 2–4% of all malignant tumors worldwide with the percentage going much higher in the Indian subcontinent. Many of these lesions are in the advanced stage at the time of diagnosis. Research is always on for newer techniques to improve early detection and diagnosis of oral malignancy. Oral brush biopsy is one such technique. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the clinical usefulness of two modified oral brush biopsy techniques in the early detection of oral cancer. Study Design: Two modified oral brush biopsy techniques, one performed with a baby brush spreading the cells directly on slide and then fixed and another with a specially prepared brush submerged in a liquid fixer, were performed in 24 patients having oral submucous fibrosis clinically. These were followed by punch biopsy (as a gold standard). All specimens were analyzed for cytology and histopathology manually. Results and Conclusion: Modified brush biopsy (MBB) and liquid-based cytology (LBC) both can be potential methods for early detection of oral cancer in different conditions.

Background: Procrastination is a form of self-regulation failure characterized by the irrational delay of tasks despite potentially negative consequences. The scenario among dental students is virtually unknown. Aim: The aim was to evaluate the prevalence of trait procrastination among dental students. Materials and Methodology: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted during September 2019 which included BDS final-year students and interns for assessing their procrastination trait. Lay's Procrastination Scale (LPS)-student version was used to collect desired information. The descriptive statistics were computed to evaluate the prevalence of significant procrastination (LPS score ≥60), and inferential statistics was done using SPSS (v21.0 IBM) software. Results: The results showed that interns had significant procrastination prevalence (LPS score ≥60) as compared to BDS final-year students. The procrastination trait among males was found to be at higher extent as compared to females. Conclusion: Because procrastination has been consistently reported to exert an adverse influence on the academic performance of students, the final-year students, to obviate the downscaling in their performance, tend to have significantly lesser procrastination trait than the interns and these findings highlight the need for active measures to reduce the causes and consequences of procrastination in dental education.

Background: Environment has shown a significant impact on day-to-day activities like psychological well-being, including oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among children. Aim: To assess the impact of contextual school and home environmental characteristics on OHRQoL among 11–14 years old children residing in Sri Ganganagar city. Materials and Methods: A convenience sample of 345 children aged 11–14 years old were recruited. The present cross-sectional study was conducted among school-going children in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, during November 2018–January 2019. Data were collected on demographic characteristics along with OHRQoL using Child-Oral Impacts on Daily Performances (C-OIDP) index. A prevalidated questionnaire used to collect data on contextual school and home environmental characteristics, oral hygiene, and dental caries were recorded using Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHI-S) and Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index, respectively. The data were analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics Windows, Version 21.0. (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp). Mean, standard deviation, Chi-square test, t-test, and multivariable Poisson regressions models were analyzed for this study, and the level of significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: The mean C-OIDP extent was significantly higher in 11-year-old (6.11 ± 4.53) (P = 0.008), among those who were living with single parents with a less maternal level of education (

The characteristic features of Class III malocclusion are present at an early age, usually between 3 and 5 years of age. If left untreated, the Class III malocclusion or severe anterior crossbite may worsen, with the majority of these patients ultimately requiring orthognathic surgery as adults. The treatment in all developing Class III cases should be undertaken as soon as the abnormality is diagnosed to prevent it from becoming permanent and resulting in a full-blown Class III malocclusion. It provides more pleasing facial esthetics (the lip posture and facial appearance), thus improving the psychosocial development of a child. Various treatment options available for the management of developing Class III malocclusion are as follows: (1) functional appliances such as reverse twin block, Frankel appliance, and the removable mandibular retractor; (2) orthopedic appliances such as chin cap and face mask; and (3) orthodontic appliances, namely removable maxillary expansion plate or fixed orthodontic appliance with expanded upper arch wire. A treatment plan may be chosen depending on the amount of maxillary growth restriction, mandibular plane angle, the soft-tissue profile, and the age of the patient. This article discusses the various treatment options and the decision-making for different clinical cases based on the clinical features with a description of four different treatment approaches.

Objective: This study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence of intraosseous jaw lesions among pediatrics (0–15 years of age) in a rural health-care center of Maharashtra and to determine the most common types of lesions and their distribution according to gender and anatomical site involved. Study Design: Histopathological data were collected from a database of lesions classified as intraosseous jaw lesions dated between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2015, from the archives of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Rural Dental College, Maharashtra, India. All the cases of jaw cysts and tumors among children under 16 years of age group were segregated and scrutinized further under the headings of type of pathologies, anatomical locations where they are most commonly seen, and the age/gender most pertinent to these pathologies. Results: The present study revealed that 114/3896 jaw lesions were pediatric jaw pathologies, of which odontogenic cysts were 67/114 and jaw tumors were 47/114. Among the cysts, 70% were developmental cysts and 30% were inflammatory cysts. The majority (71.6%) of the jaw cysts were found in the mixed dentition phase (7–15 years). Among the jaw tumors, 55% of them were categorized under odontogenic tumors and 45% were under fibro-osseous lesions. Similar to intraosseous jaw cysts, tumors of jaws were more prevalent under the age of mixed dentition, which was found to be 87%. Male predominance was seen and the overall male:female ratio was calculated as 1:0.52 and 1:0.5 for cysts and tumors, respectively. Mandibular posterior segment was found to be the most commonly encountered anatomical site in both the groups of cases. Conclusion: A large number of cases were recorded, which led us to a path of interrogation through which the reason for increased incidence was extracted, and it was agreed that though the pathogenesis remains the same in every individual, routine health checkups and early diagnosis may reduce the incidence and aggressiveness of pathologies, respectively, which was lacking at the rural area.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of micro-osteoperforation (MOP) over a 56-day period and to determine the influence of number of perforations on the rate of canine retraction. In addition, the amount of pain and discomfort caused by the MOP was evaluated. TRIAL DESIGN: A single-center, split-mouth, triple-blind, randomized, controlled trial. METHODS: 22 patients (18–30 years) who need fixed orthodontic treatment were recruited and randomly assigned to MOP1 and MOP2 groups. The recruited patients were divided into two groups with 1:1 allocation ratio. Randomization for the determination of experimental side and number of perforations was done using sealed envelopes. On each patient, the other side of mouth worked as control side with no MOPs. 4 months after first premolar extraction, patients in MOP1 received 3MOPs on the buccal surface of alveolar bone, whereas patients in MOP2 received three buccal and three palatal MOPs in the experimental side. The amount of canine retraction was measured every 28 days at two intervals on both sides of mouth. Pain perception was measured after 1 hr, 24 hr, 72 hr, 7 days, and 28 days of procedure. RESULTS: Result of the intra-examiner reliability using ICC is more than 0.97 (P < 0.001), indicating excellent repeatability and reliability of the measurements. The baseline characteristics between groups were similar (P > 0.05). A statistically significant difference in the rate of canine retraction on the MOP side was observed at the end of 56 days, amounting to two folds more than that of the control side. No significant difference was seen between MOP1 and MOP2 groups (P > 0.05). Mild-to-moderate pain was experienced only in first 72 hours of procedure. CONCLUSION: The study recommends that MOP procedure has substantial potential to be used as an adjunct to the routine mechanotherapy for accelerating tooth movement, as it may reduce treatment time by half in the first four weeks after the MOP procedure. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical trial registry of India (CTRI/2022/12/048181).

Aim or purpose: An increase in number of people seeking emergency care due to inability to access dental services for general care was seen during COVID-19. This drive through model was developed to screen, educate and prioritise, based on individual risks, patients who were otherwise unable to get dental care due to COVID-19 restrictions. Methods: On World Oral Health Day, 2021 dental examinations were conducted for patients while they drove through an existing COVID-19 screening clinic. The ICDAS-II index (International Caries Detection and Assessment System), score two to six, was used for caries assessment and management. Patients were categorised into three groups based on number of decayed teeth (less than three, three to six or more than six). The management criteria was based on the ICDAS score of teeth under each of the three categories. Results: A total of 247 patients were screened and educated on the day. 102 patients with ICDAS score two to four were given education and preventative treatment appointment. While 118 patients with ICDAS score five or six were identified to be at risk of dental emergency in the near future and were booked in for emergency or general treatment. Another 27 patient were given clinical priority based on their periodontal or denture related needs. Patient survey revealed a high satisfaction rate of 92%. Conclusions: This public health initiative was a great success in providing dental care to the patients during these unprecedented times who would not have had any care otherwise due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Background: Dental anxiety and fear are the major complications for both patient and dental care providers. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of dental anxiety and fear in patients visiting the dental institute with respect to their gender. Materials and Methods: In the present study, 100 patients were provided with certain questionnaire which included two sections. The first section concerning age, gender, educational level, frequency of dental visits, reasons for irregular attendance, and existence of past traumatic experience. The second section comprises modified dental anxiety scale. Data was collected and analyzed with respect to gender using the statistical analysis. Results and Conclusion: Anxiety-associated dental treatment is widespread in the study population. Dental anxiety was higher in women and in the patients with traumatic dental experiences.

Maxillary second molars are generally considered to have three roots and three or four canals. In the literature, various cases of maxillary second molars have been reported with more number of roots and root canals, but only very few cases have been reported with less number of roots and root canals. This article reports about the diagnosis and endodontic management of maxillary second molars with single root and single canal, as failure to identify such configuration may lead to poor prognosis due to excessive removal of the dentin in search of canals.

Introduction: Paediatric endodontics is part of paediatric dental practice. Teeth with infected root canals, particularly those in which the infection has spread around the apical foramen and furcation area, is a common problem in primary dentition for such conditions pulpectomy is the procedure. Pulpectomy procedure proves to be long and complicated and has remained controversial for a number of reasons. Lesion sterilization and tissue repair therapy (LSTR) is a relatively new biologic approach for carious lesions with or without pulpal and periapical involvement using a mixture of antibiotics. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiographic success of three different LSTR techniques as treatment options in primary molars requiring pulpectomy. Methods: Sixty-three primary molars of fifty children aged between 4 and 8 years with primary molars requiring pulpectomy were treated with modified 3Mix-MP antibiotic paste without removal of accessible radicular pulp (Group I), modified 3Mix-MP with removal of accessible radicular pulp (Group II) and Chloramphenicol, tetracycline and zinc oxide eugeno (CTZ) paste (Group III). The subjects were followed up clinically at one, six, and twelve months whereas radiographically at six and twelve months, respectively. Results: The results showed that clinical success rates of Group I, Group II and Group III were 90%, 90.5% and 81.8% respectively and radiographical success rates were 75%, 76.2% and 63.6% respectively after twelve months observation. Conclusion: On the basis of the overall success rates of all the three LSTR techniques, following order of performance can be inferred clinical success and radiographical success: – 3Mix-MP without removal of radicular pulp = 3Mix-MP with removal of radicular pulp >CTZ paste.

Background: Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is an esthetic setback for the patient as well as for the dentist, treatment options for MIH includes minimally invasive techniques like microabrasion which has a limited literature of its effect. Furthermore, the effect of remineralizing such as casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) agent on MIH-affected teeth is minimally studied. Aim: Comparative evaluation of the esthetic after microabrasion and microabrasion followed by Tooth Mousse Plus on hypomineralized incisors of MIH-affected patients. Settings and Design: The study was a randomized clinical trial. Materials and Methods: The study comprised Grade I MIH patients in the age strata of 7–16 years having lesions on incisors. As per inclusion criteria, 46 lesions were divided into two groups of microabrasion and microabrasion followed by CPP-amorphous calcium fluoride phosphate (ACFP). Photographs were obtained before treatment, just after treatment, and 6 months after treatment. The photographic evaluation was done using the CIE Lab scoring method. Statistical Analysis Used: ANOVA and posthoc Tukey's test were applied to compare the difference in lightness ΔL and total color change ΔE of these two groups. Results: In microabrasion group, the overall change in ΔL of white tooth discoloration came −0.9 standard deviation (SD) 7.3. In microabrasion followed by CPP-ACFP group, statistically significant difference was found between both these groups with P value of P ≤ 0.001. Conclusions: Microabrasion followed by the remineralizing agent can improve the esthetics of white tooth discoloration with time.

A case report describing the rehabilitation of a patient presenting with partially edentulous arches and compromised abutment teeth has been described. The aim of this study was to restore function and esthetics and uplift the psychological status of the patient by fabrication of a fixed removable prosthesis using the existing abutment teeth as telescopic overdenture.

Sialocele is a cavity filled with saliva, usually as a result of trauma, complication of surgery, sialolithiasis or bacterial infection residing inside the duct. Many cases of parotid sialocele have been reported in the literature, but only very few cases of parotid duct sialocele have been reported. We report a case of an unusual facial swelling over buccal mucosa at the route of Stenson’s duct with poor oral hygiene, a case of parotid duct sialocele with secondary infection and describe its diagnosis and management.

Introduction: It is common to encounter a patient who is anxious to the magnitude that precludes the possibility of provision of dental treatment. This study aims to evaluate and compare the sedative effect of oral combinations of midazolam-ketamine (MK), dexmedetomidine-fentanyl (DF), and dexmedetomidine-ketamine (DK) in a group of uncooperative children requiring dental treatment. Methodology: This was a prospective, randomized, triple-blind study where 36 children who were 3–9 year old with American Society of Anesthesiologists –I status and presenting early childhood caries were randomly assigned to: Group A – 0.3 mg/kg of M and 5 mg/kg K, Group B – 2 ug/kg of D with 3 ug/kg of F, and Group C – 2ug/kg of D with 5 mg/kg of K in 1 mL honey. Patients' blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation were recorded from the start of the procedure till discharge. Patients' behavior, sedation status, and wake-up behavior were evaluated with Modified Observer Assessment of Alertness and Sedation Scale and ease of treatment completion by Houpt scale. Results: Hemodynamic changes were statistically insignificant in all three groups. 72.8% of patients in Group A and 58.3% of patients in Group B were successfully sedated during treatment. Behavior improvement was seen in all three groups during treatment with statistically insignificant difference in behavior scores produced by Group C. Ease of treatment completion was moderately better with Group A. Conclusion: Oral DK has a comparable sedative property with oral MK combination. Oral DF promises to be a potential sedative agent for children due to its successful anxiolysis.

Mandibular canine is generally considered to have one root and one canal, but it may possess two canals and even less frequently two roots and two or three canals. This article highlights the identification and endodontic management of two cases of a rare anatomical variation in mandibular canine with two roots and two canals.

The design of orbital prosthesis to rehabilitate patients with orbital exenteration depends on the underlying clinical condition, material chosen for prosthesis, method of retention of the prosthesis, and and preference of the patient. Rehabilitation of a patient with orbital exenteration due to mucormycosis has been described by fabricating a prosthesis that used polymethyl methacrylate (to fabricate a conformer) and silicone material (to fabricate prosthetic superstructure). The two-component prosthesis was designed to attain dual mechanical retention using an anatomic undercut (conformer) and manually created mechanical undercut (prosthetic superstructure). The objective was to maintain the biological health of the underlying postsurgical tissue, longevity of the prosthesis, optimal esthetics, and adequate retention.

A thorough knowledge of root canal morphology and good anticipation of their possible morphological variations may help to prevent iatrogenic errors and ensure success. The morphology of permanent maxillary first molar has been studied extensively with more emphasis on extra number of roots and root canals; however, the presence of two canals in two-rooted maxillary first molar has rarely been documented in the literature describing tooth and root canal anatomies. This case report documents the successful endodontic management of a two-rooted maxillary first molars with two canals, which was present bilaterally.

Aim: The endodontic literature reports considerable variations in the root canal morphology of mandibular first premolars, including variations in number of roots and root canals. Additionally C-shaped canal configuration has also been documented in some case reports. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the incidence of C-shaped canal morphology in mandibular first premolars in an Indian population. Materials and Methodology: A total of 110 human mandibular left and right first premolars were collected. All teeth were subjected to CBCT exposures, made with the unit operating in continuous mode at 80 kV and 12 mA with an exposure time of 12s. CBCT images were analyzed using CS 3D Imaging Software 3.1 in the oblique cut. Result: Out of 110 teeth, five teeth (4.54%) presented with the C-shaped canal configuration. Conclusion: Limitations inherent in 2D imaging can be overcome by newer imaging techniques such as CBCT to better appreciate the variations in root canal anatomy.

Aim: The purpose of this study is to find the opinion, attitude, beliefs, and the existing knowledge of parents of Himachal Pradesh suburban city about conscious sedation. Objective: To know the effect of education of parent and prior sedation experience of the child on opinion, attitude, and knowledge of parent about conscious sedation. Methodology: A questionnaire in Hindi/English was provided to parents who accompanied their child for the treatment in the Paedodontics Department of HPGDC College Shimla. Information regarding demography, existing knowledge gained through television, the internet, opinion about the safety of the procedure, knowledge of nothing by mouth guidelines, restraints usage, and knowing their preferences of staying with the child during treatment was explored. Questions were straight yes or no type and multiple choice type. Some questions were statements and wanted the respondents to strongly agree, agree, disagree, or strongly disagree. Results and Conclusion: A total of 350 questionnaires were collected. Parents feel sedation is safe in the dental office as an adjunct to dental treatment. Education played a role in existing knowledge about sedation and perception about the safety of conscious sedation.

Introduction: Stature is the height of a person in the upright posture. Based upon the principle that the various long bones correlate positively with stature, stature correlation to skull and jaw dimensions has been frequently reported among various populations. Objective: The study was conducted to investigate the possibility of predicting the height of an individual using selected odontometric parameters as a forensic tool. Materials and Methods: The study sample consisted of 100 randomly selected subjects. Measurements of maxillary intercanine width (IC), maxillary interpremolar width (IP), and mesiodistal width of six permanent maxillary anterior teeth (CW) were made directly on the subject by means of a digital vernier caliper. Height (H) of patients was measured with anthropometer. Results: Significant correlation was observed between height and maxillary IC width (P < 0.05), whereas correlation between height and the combined width of six anterior teeth as well as IP width was found to be nonsignificant. Conclusion: The maxillary IC width can be used successfully to calculate the stature of an individual from fragmentary remains.

Introduction: Mothers play a key role in adoption of preventive strategies for an improved oral health in the first few crucial years of life of infants and young children. The purpose of the study is 2 folds: (1) to evaluate and compare the awareness and attitude (Aw-At) levels between expectant and lactating mothers toward infant oral health care and (2) to analyze the influence of maternal sociodemographic variables on their Aw-At levels toward infant oral health care. Materials and Methods: A total of 500 expectant and lactating mothers visiting the outpatient department of the government hospital in Rohtak, India, were randomly selected and interviewed through a 27-item self-designed, structured questionnaire. Mann–Whitney, Kruskal–Wallis, and Chi-square tests were applied for assessment and comparison. Results: Lactating mothers scored significantly higher than expectant mothers (P = 0.004) in awareness levels. Awareness score of mothers (26–35 years old) was also significantly higher than the younger ones (P = 0.002). Urban group had a higher attitude score than rural group mothers (P = 0.002). Working mothers scored more in both Aw-At scores (P < 0.001). The awareness scores also increased significantly with increase in educational qualification (P < 0.001) and parity of mothers. Conclusion: The study had found low awareness levels toward infant oral health care but a positive attitude among mothers. Hence, it is suggested to increase this to ensure optimal dental health for themselves and their children by educating and motivating the mothers, providing prenatal counseling, anticipatory guidance, referral by the medical personnel, and most importantly, establishing the concept of dental home.

Objectives: Inner happiness and the ability to fully receive joy is the utmost necessity to be healthy, to mature in professional life and eventually serving the mankind. Medical students are less ecstatic compared to other students in university because of concrete inculcation and work conditions. The aim of the present study was to evaluate happiness among medical students& its correlates. Materials and methodology: The study was conducted among 115 medical students of MBBS (2nd year) of Subharti Medical College, Meerut. The information was gathered by using the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire which was distributed among the MBBS second year students present during the study at Subharti Medical College, Meerut. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test were used for the analysis. Results: The happiness distribution in regards to baseline characteristic showed that 60.8% of the selected medical students were in happy group. It was found that male students (51.4%) were happier than females (48.6%). It was seen that 85.7% of medical students who were happy, had never consumed drugs and this association was found to be statistically significant. It was observed that comparatively younger siblings were happier. Those who believed in higher power or universal consciousness were found to be more contented and happier. Conclusion: Overall the medical students were found to be happy. To make a conducive environment for internal happiness, a belief in superpower was very helpful. All kind of drugs (alcohol and tobacco) should be discouraged as these may cause a temporary feeling of elation but not internal happiness.

Background: Pharmacological methods have been used as an adjunct to enhance child cooperativeness and facilitate dental treatment. Objective: Purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the effect of sedation by intranasal dexmedetomidine and oral combination drug midazolam–ketamine in a group of children with uncooperative behavior requiring dental treatment. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, randomized, double-blind study that included patients 3–9 years old with American Society of Anesthesiologists-I status. About 36 children presenting early childhood caries were randomly assigned to one of three groups studied: Group MK received intranasal saline and oral midazolam (0.5 mg/kg) with ketamine (5 mg/kg) mixed in mango juice; Group DX received intranasal dexmedetomidine (1 μg/kg) and oral mango juice; and Group C received intranasal saline and oral mango juice. Patients' heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation were recorded before, during, and at the end of the procedure. Patients' behavior, sedation status, and wake up behavior were evaluated with modified observer assessment of alertness and sedation scale. Ease of treatment completion was evaluated according to Houpt scale. Results: Hemodynamic changes were statistically insignificant in Group MK and Group DX. About 75% patients in Group MK were successfully sedated as compared to 53.9% Group DX and none of the patients in Group C. Ease of treatment completion was better with Group MK as compared to Group DX and least with Group C. Around 50% patients in Group MK had postoperative complications. Conclusion: Oral midazolam–ketamine combination and intranasal dexmedetomidine evaluated in the present study can be used safely and effectively in uncooperative pediatric dental patients for producing conscious sedation.

Aim: The aim of the study is to compare and evaluate neck node status of oral cancer patients with and without Oral Sub Mucous Fibrosis (OSMF) treated surgically. Methodology: A total of 50 patients of Indian origin who were diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) of oral cavity and had not taken any prior treatment were included in the study. Clinical examination and metastatic workup was done for all patients. Patients diagnosed with resectable primary and without distant metastasis were taken up for surgery. For all patients, resected specimens were sent for radical histopathological examination. Result: The differences in nodal involvement in T1, T2 & T3 sized lesions were non-significant, while in T4 sized lesions, a statistically significant lower incidence of nodal involvement in patients with-OSMF as compared to patients without OSMF was observed. Conclusion: Presence of N0 neck in T4 lesions in oral SCC patients with OSMF has potential implications on the present pattern of spread and treatment protocols, leading to need for further research with OSMF as independent risk factor for nodal involvement

Management of bleeding disorders poses a challenge to dentists. These conditions can be inherited, acquired, or congenital are associated with an increased risk of hemorrhage, poor wound healing, and infection. Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare autosomal recessive disease which belongs to a group of chromosome break up or DNA repair disorders. Hematologic abnormalities represent the most prevalent pathologic manifestation of FA. Herein, we report a case of FA in which various classical signs of the disease were present. We have given emphasis on oral manifestations and the role of a pedodontist in making an early diagnosis and providing comprehensive care for the maintenance of oral health of the affected individuals.

Restoration of primary incisors, which have been severely damaged by extensive caries or trauma, is a difficult task for the pediatric dentist. Primary teeth dictate the physical appearance, and their structural affects leads to loss of esthetics compromised mastication, poor phonetics, development of aberrant habits, neuromuscular imbalance, and difficulty in social and psychological adjustment of the child. Case description: This case report discusses the restoration of severely decayed primary maxillary incisors using composite resin restoration reinforced with glass impregnated post in anterior teeth in a 4-year-old male patient. The use of intracanal posts in endodontically treated teeth improves the retention of a eventual restoration. The use of impregnated fiberglass post together with flowable composite offers an alternative where all components are bonded together to form a firmly attached restoration. This technique of glass impregnated composite resin post and core has shown promising results and has presented pediatric dentists with an additional treatment option.

Introduction: Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) are very common in childhood. Majority of TDI occur at home followed by schools. The prognosis of TDIs to a great extent is dependent on prompt emergency measures taken at the site of accident. Hence, it is of paramount importance to assess the knowledge of people present at the site of accident that generally includes parents, teachers, and sports coaches. Aim of Study: The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and awareness of school teachers of Kolkata regarding management of TDIs. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 400 school teachers of Kolkata over a period of 2 months using a pretested close-ended questionnaire. The questionnaire had three parts: Part 1 contained questions on personal information, Part 2 contained questions based on two imaginary cases of trauma, and Part 3 related to their attitude toward dental trauma education. Chi-square test was done to describe the strength of the associations. Results: : The overall knowledge of school teachers regarding management of TDIs was not found to be satisfactory. It was observed that most of the teachers were in favor of taking immediate professional consultation for the emergency management, but most of them were unaware of the steps to be taken on their part to minimize complications and improve prognosis. Conclusion: Despite the lack of knowledge and awareness regarding management of dental trauma, school teachers of Kolkata had a good attitude toward management of dental trauma and its education.

The healing of hard and soft tissue in mediated by a wide range of intracellular and extracellular events that are regulated by signaling proteins. Platelets can play a crucial role in periodontal regeneration as they are the reservoirs of growth factors and cytokines which are the key factors for regeneration of bone and maturation of soft tissue. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is first generation platelet concentrate. However, the short duration of cytokine release and its poor mechanical properties have resulted in search of new material. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a natural fibrin-based biomaterial prepared from an anticoagulant-free blood harvest without any artificial biochemical modification (no bovine thrombin is required) that allows obtaining fibrin membranes enriched with platelets and growth factors. The slow polymerization during centrifugation, fibrin-based structure, ease of preparation, minimal expense makes PRF somewhat superior in some aspect to PRP.

Background: Management of furcation defects is challenging, and constantly newer therapeutic strategies are evolving. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is successfully used alone and in combination with various agents in the furcation defects. Lately, metformin (MF), a second generation biguanide has gained popularity owing to its osteogenic potential. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic effectiveness of open flap debridement (OFD) and PRF when compared to OFD + PRF + 1% MF gel in the management of mandibular Grade II furcation defects. Materials and Methods: Thirty mandibular grade II furcation defects were stratified into two groups; in one group OFD and PRF is used, and the other group had an additional MF gel with PRF in OFD. Clinical parameters such as plaque index, modified sulcus bleeding index, probing pocket depth (PD), relative vertical attachment level (RVAL), and relative horizontal attachment level (RHAL) were recorded at baseline and at 6 months. Radiovisiography and ImageJ software were used to evaluate the intrabony defect depth. Results: The OFD + PRF + MF group showed significantly higher probing PD reduction, RVAL and RHAL gain than the OFD + PRF group. Conclusions: PRF when combined with a potential osteogenic agent like MF can provide a better therapeutic benefit to a furcation involved tooth.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic success of zinc oxide (ZnO)-ozonated oil, modified 3Mix antibiotic paste, and vitapex in the treatment of primary molars requiring pulpectomy. Methods: Sixty-four primary molars of forty-three healthy children aged between 4 and 8 years with primary molars requiring root canal procedure were treated with ZnO-ozonated oil, modified 3Mix-MP antibiotic paste, and vitapex. Clinical follow up was done at 1, 6,12 months and 18 months while radiographical follow-up was done at 6,12 and 18 months, respectively. Results: The results showed that the clinical success rates of ZnO-ozonated oil, modified 3Mix-MP paste and vitapex were 95.5%,89.5% and 100% respectively and radiographical success rates were 94.4%,80.95% and 100% respectively after 18 months period of observation. Conclusion: The overall success rates of ZnO-ozonated oil, vitapex and modified 3Mix antibiotic paste were comparable.

Anterior supernumerary teeth in the permanent dentition may be supplemental or rudimentary. Rudimentary types are further classified as conical, tuberculate, and molariform. The molariform type has been only rarely reported. We report a rare variety of anterior supernumerary teeth - the molariform type, occurring bilaterally and in association with a midline supernumerary tooth. We also suggest a hypothesis for the bilateral occurrence of supernumerary teeth.

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship of the measured distance between two mandibular points (distance M-Me) to chronological age and to find out whether the absolute values of distance M-Me could be classified age-wise into a unique range, which could be directly read for predicting the stage of mandibular growth. Methods and Materials: The study sample consists of lateral cephalometric records of 65 patients (34 females and 31 males; age range: 6–21 years). Chronological age was calculated in decimal years. Lateral cephalograms were assessed by two independent examiners. Points M and Me were located on the lateral cephalograms, and linear distance between them was measured. Results: Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients showed a high correlation between chronological age and distance M-Me (0.746 for females and 0.869 for males, p < 0.01). When the values of distance M-Me were compared with chronological age, it was possible to make four age groups (for females and males separately), where each group showed a unique range of value for distance M-Me. The values increased with increasing age. Conclusions: Increase in value of distance M-Me with age, showing reduced individual variation, depicts a well-conserved linear dimension. Values of distance M-Me can be directly read for predicting the stage of mandibular growth and can be used as a valuable adjunct or substitute to chronological age.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic success of zinc oxide-ozonated oil (ZnO-OO), modified 3Mix antibiotic paste, and Vitapex in treatment of primary molars requiring pulpectomy. Methods: Sixty-four primary molars of forty three children aged between 4 and 8 years with pulpally involved primary molars requiring root canal procedures were treated with ZnO-OO, modified 3Mix-MP paste, and Vitapex. The subjects were followed up clinically at 1, 6, and 12 months whereas radiographically at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Results: The results showed that the clinical and radiographic success rates of ZnO-OO and Vitapex over 12 months period of observation were 100% whereas, for modified 3Mix-MP paste, the results were 95.8% and 79.2%, respectively. Conclusion: On the basis of the overall success rates of all the three medicaments, following order of performance can be inferred clinical success and radiographical success:- ZnO-OO = Vitapex > modified 3MIX-MP paste.

Background: A new epidemiological index is introduced for full assessment of dental caries which is known as caries assessment spectrum and treatment (CAST). “Spectrum” is considered backbone of this index as it covers from no lesion to advanced stage progression of caries. We aimed to evaluate and compare the status of caries in primary and permanent molars of 7–8-year-old schoolchildren of Shimla using CAST index and to find if any correlation exists between the status of caries in evaluated teeth. Methods: Three hundred and one schoolchildren with age group of 7–8 years were selected from schools in Shimla. CAST codes were determined for primary molars and first permanent molars. The distribution of CAST codes in the examined molars is correlated with the help of Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. The level of statistical significance was established at P< 0.05. The intraexaminer reliability was determined by the unweighted kappa coefficient. Results: Caries was assessed in 6.3%–12.3% of the permanent molars in contrast to primary molars, in which caries was near about 50%. The correlation was stronger for first and second deciduous molars for the right side of the mouth than the left side (r = 0.293 and 0.257 in the maxilla and 0.503 and 0.319 in the mandible [P < 0.001], respectively, while correlation for teeth in opposite jaws was moderate [r = 0.20–0.47]). The intraexaminer reliability was examined (k = 0.90 for the primary and 0.85 for permanent molars). Conclusion: The correlation between primary and permanent molars regarding the caries status in primary molars is weak while strongest correlation was present on the right side of the mouth for first and second deciduous molars. The study also showed the applicability of the CAST index in epidemiological surveys.