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The routine use of standardized diagnostic terminologies (DxTMs) in dentistry has long been the subject of academic debate. This paper discusses the strategies suggested by a group of dental stakeholders to enhance the uptake of DxTMs. Through unstructured interviewing at the 'Toward a Diagnosis-Driven Profession' National Conference held on 19 March 2016 in Los Angeles, CA, USA participants were asked how enthusiastic they were about implementing and consistently using DxTMs at their work. They also brainstormed on strategies to improve the widespread use of DxTMs. Their responses are summarized by recursive abstraction and presented in themes. Conference participants were very enthusiastic about using a DxTM in their place of work. Participants enumerated several strategies to make DxTMs more appealing including: the use of mandates, a value proposition for providers, communication and education, and integration with EHRs and existing systems. All groups across the dental healthcare delivery spectrum will need to work together for the success of the widespread and consistent use of DxTMs. Understanding the provider perspective is however the most critical step in achieving this goal, as they are the group who will ultimately be saddled with the critical task of ensuring DxTM use at the point of care.

IntroductionThe management of unidentified decedents suspected to be undocumented migrants is a growing humanitarian crisis in Africa. Identification of the dead and the right of the family to know the fate of a decedent is a fundamental human right. Forensic odontology methods can provide helpful and assisting information in the identification even in challenging low-resource settings. South Africa and other countries that are part of significant migration routes face the problem of unidentified decedents.DiscussionThe fundamental application of forensic odontology relies on the availability of good antemortem dental records. The state of dental records was reported to be suboptimal in South Africa and other African countries. Incorporating forensic odontology into the undergraduate training in the 23 dental schools in Africa will increase the understanding of the value of maintaining accurate dental records and potentially facilitate collaboration with dentists and forensic odontologists in cases where dental features can be used for identification. South Africa offers postgraduate training in forensic odontology, and prospects for research in Africa need to be explored.ConclusionThe development of a forensic odontology career path and research prospects will provide African countries with the potential for building multidisciplinary teams to assist in solving the challenge of unidentified decedents.

This retrospective analysis of longitudinal data was developed to determine which types, combinations, and intensities of topical fluorides more effectively prevent new caries-related restorations and extractions in high caries risk adults. We included data from October 1, 2008, through June 30, 2018, from electronic dental and medical records and pharmacy database from the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans who were eligible for continuing and comprehensive care, met the criteria of high caries risk (received 2 or more caries-related restorations within a 365-d period), and had 3 y of follow-up were included. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated the odds of caries-related treatment during the 1-y observation period, controlling for age, gender, race and ethnicity, illness burden (Selim comorbidity index), use of prescription medications, attendance at dental prophylaxis appointments, number of caries-related restorations during the index year, and time between first and last caries-related restoration during the index year. The study sample included 68,757 veterans, who were primarily male (91.5%), were White (73.6%), had a mean age of 59.2 ± 13.5 y, and had significant medical comorbidity as measured by the Selim index (3.7 ± 2.4 physical and 1.3 ± 1.2 mental diagnoses). They had 10.8 ± 6.3 prescription VA drug classes, took 0.6 ± 0.8 strong anticholinergic medications, and had 3.9 ± 2.6 teeth restored due to caries during the index year. Adjusted multivariable logistic regression models showed veterans who received a varnish or gel/rinse fluoride intervention versus no fluoride had an approximately 29% decreased odds of receiving caries-related treatment during the observation period (gel/rinse adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.67–0.76; varnish AOR = 0.71; 95% CI, 0.67–0.75). The receipt of a varnish and gel/rinse did not demonstrate statistically better odds than each intervention alone (AOR = 0.69; 95% CI, 0.64–0.75). A dose–response effect was observed. Two-plus applications of varnish versus none (AOR = 0.73; 95% CI, 0.69–0.77) and 2-plus applications of gel/rinse versus none (AOR = 0.71; 95% CI, 0.67–0.75) were more effective than 1 application of either modality versus none. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate cephalometric parameters of orthodontic population in an urban setup in Odisha using Steiner's, Tweed's and Rakosi's analysis and compare it with the established Caucasian norms. Methodology: Pre-treatment patient records from a dental hospital were collected. Lateral cephalograms of the normal and supernormal sample were traced. Cephalometric features relating to various facial hard tissue that determine balance and harmony were measured using Steiner's, Tweed's and Rakosi's analysis. The values obtained were compared with the established Caucasian norms. Comparison of mean values were done via independent sample t test and ANOVA. Subsequently post hoc Tukey's was used to establish the significance of the mean difference of all the variables used. Results: Significant differences were obtained for lower incisor to NB, mandibular plane angle, FMA, FMIA, articular angle, basal plane angle, inclination angle, Rakosi Jarabak ratio and interincisal angle. Conclusion: Fundamental variations were seen in various parameters. Perception of lay persons can be of aid to the clinician in assembling commendations for alternative treatment plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Palatal rugae are individual features which are important for personal identification. Present study determines the rugae characteristics and their age-related changes in both sexes. Material and Methods: Palatal rugae status (number, length, thickness, shape, direction, unification) of 323 subjects (180 females/143 males) within the age range of 20-79 years were recorded from their dental casts, divided into four sectors on the right and left sides of the palate and statistically analysed. Results: The results reveal that there were no statistically significant differences for rugae number distribution due to the sex and right/left sides of the palate (p-value> 0.05 for both analysis). The frequencies of rugae with regard to shape, direction and unification characteristics revealed statistically significant differences (p-value< 0.05). When means were compared within age groups; number, length and thickness of rugae showed statistically significant differences in relation with age (p-value< 0.05). Conclusion: Age can be assessed by examining the palatal rugae, as its number decreases, length shortens, thickness gets thinner by ageing (p-value< 0.05). Therefore, rugae can be accepted as complementary evidence for forensic odontologists especially for age assessment of edentulous cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purposes of this study were to determine the success and failure rates of root canal treatment and determine factors affecting the success and failure of root canal treatment performed by undergraduate students at the Faculty of Dentistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand, from May 2015 to April 2020. Data of 176 anterior teeth and premolars from dental treatment records and radiographs were collected and evaluated. Digital periapical radiographs were evaluated by the Periapical index (PAI) score system. The treatment outcome was assessed based on the clinical and radiographic findings. Factors affecting the outcome were analyzed using the Chi-square test and logistic regression model. The recall rate was 32.8%. The overall success rate was 84.1%, whereas the failure rate was 15.9%. The multivariate analysis identified that factors affecting outcome were the presence of pre-operative periapical lesion size < 5 mm (P=.025), periapical lesion size > 5 mm (P=.005), and the occurrence of occlusal trauma (P=.040), with odds ratios of 0.18, 0.13, and 0.09, respectively. The teeth without periapical lesions had a better success rate than those with lesions. The occlusal trauma is an important factor in prolonging periapical healing of root canal treated teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This retrospective study has aimed to examine the distribution of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) request records in a dental faculty from 2011 to 2021 according to gender, diagnosis, the clinic making the request, and the year. In this study, archive records of 8214 CBCT images between January 2011 and January 2021 at Dicle University Faculty of Dentistry were examined. The findings showed that, in the last 10 years, the clinics requesting CBCT images were Oral, Dental, and Maxillofacial Surgery (48.6%), Orthodontics (20.4%), Oral, Dental and Maxillofacial Radiology (10.8%), Private Clinics (7.3%), Periodontology (4.3%), Pediatric Dentistry (2%) Endodontics (0.5%), and Restorative Dentistry (0.2%). CBCT was preferred for implant treatment planning (45.18%) and position of the embedded tooth (14.89%). In the evaluation made on CBCT request records of 8214 patients, 20 different reasons for request were identified. It was observed that CBCT images were mostly requested for implant treatment planning in the Oral, Dental and Maxillofacial Surgery clinic and CBCT requests were seen to increase from 2011 to 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to evaluate the risk factors for failures of direct class II restorations performed at Kuwait University Dental Center (KUDC). This study retrospectively analyzed 103 dental records of patients who received Class II direct restorations of at least 2 surfaces at the Kuwait University comprehensive dental care clinic. Electronic data collection was done using Microsoft Forms software. Success or failure of a procedure was assessed by accessing the progress notes from digital dental files. Restorations were considered as failed restorations when a new restoration was placed in the same tooth number, including ≥1 surfaces of the previous restoration. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. To investigate the impact of factors on restoration survival, a multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed. Significant differences between selected groups were determined with Kaplan-Meier statistics and log-rank tests where P value < 0.05 is considered statistically significant. Factors such as endodontically treated teeth and the type of restorative material used were found to be significant predictors for restoration failures. Factors such as caries risk and periodontal status including oral hygiene were found to be non-statistically significant. Emphasis on the knowledge in modern tendencies in restorative procedures is useful to guide dental schools to improve their teaching methodology. In addition, documentation of the reasons for the placement and replacement of direct restorations is important to prevent potential failures and facilitate future clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to identify the impact of fears from dental interventions because the fears lead to the suspension of therapeutic treatment and deterioration of oral health. The present study was conducted from February 2019 to February 2022 in Albania. The sample is composed of 180 participants, of which 40% were males and 60% were females. The participants' age range varied from 15 to 55 years old. Many of the patients 70% of them had high dental fear to receive orthodontic treatments and dental fillings, 59% of them had high dental fear to receive dental implants, and most respondents 74% of them had an extreme fear of the tooth extractions. 64% of participants surveyed stated that had gingivitis and 61% of them declared that had dental caries, compared to 53% of patients who had tooth extractions. On the basis of the data analysis, tooth extractions and dental caries had a significant impact on the high blood pressure with a P-value < .0001. The results suggest improving the dental service in Albania because providing an appropriate dental treatment reduces fear and serves as an instrument for solving oral problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate and compare the amount and rate of space closure and tooth tipping during orthodontic space closure toward a recent vs healed first premolar extraction site. The mandibular arches of 23 patients were included. Treatment plans included lower first premolar extractions. After reaching 0.019 × 0.025-inch stainless-steel archwires (SSAW), patients were subdivided into two groups (Group 1: space closure was carried out toward a healed first premolar extraction space and Group 2: space closure was carried out immediately after first premolar extraction). Elastomeric power chain from second molar to second molar was used to close lower extraction spaces. The following time points were defined: T1: just before space closure; T2–T4: 1–3 months after initial space closure. Records consisted of dental study models. The amount and rate of extraction space closure were evaluated at each time point. In Group 1 (healed socket), a total amount of 1.98 mm (coronally) and 1.75 mm (gingivally) of space closure was achieved. The rate of space closure was 0.66 mm/month coronally and 0.58 mm/month gingivally. In Group 2 (recent socket), the total amount of space closure was 3.02 mm coronally and 2.68 mm gingivally. The rate of space closure was 1.01 mm/month coronally and 0.89 mm/month gingivally. Differences between the two groups were significant (P <.01). Tipping of adjacent teeth during space closure was similar in both groups (P >.05). In the lower arch, the amount and rate of space closure toward a recent extraction site were higher than that toward a healed extraction socket with similar tipping of teeth in both groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unmet dental needs are still at the highest rate in patients with special health care needs (SHCN) owing to their physical conditions, lack of cooperation, anxiety and dental fear. This study was aimed to investigate the differences in characteristics and outcomes of dental treatment between general anesthesia (GA) and non-pharmacological approach (NP) in patients with SHCN. This study reviewed the dental chart records of SHCN patients from 2005 to 2019. The dental chart records were divided into two subgroups: GA and NP groups. The demographic data, recall behavior and treatment outcomes were analyzed and compared between groups. The comparisons between groups were analyzed by Pearson's chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test and Mann–Whitney U test at a significant level of 0.05. Two hundred and sixty-one patients aged 2.2–43.1 years with mean age 14.22 ± 8.64 years old were included. The proportion of cases treated under GA (62%) and NP (38%) was 1.6:1. General anesthesia group had significantly higher in mean ages, caries experience, definitely negative behavior and treatment needs than NP group (P < 0.001). Moreover, recall rates in GA group were significantly lower than NP group (P < 0.001) without a significant difference in regularity. New caries occurrence (P = 0.015) with faster rate (P = 0.035), and behavior changes was significantly found in GA group (P = 0.007) after 24 months of recall. Patients with SHCN who were at older age and had high caries experience with definitely negative behavior and numerous treatment needs were more justifiably for GA. A significant new caries occurrence with faster rate tended towards SHCN patients who underwent GA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of RSBO: Revista Sul-Brasileira de Odontologia is the property of UNIVILLE and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Odontológica Colombiana is the property of Universidad Nacional de Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Odontológica Colombiana is the property of Universidad Nacional de Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Oral health in Aotearoa New Zealand has improved in the last seven decades, but improvements among young children have stagnated in the last two. Four out of ten 5-year-olds are affected by caries and many pre-schoolers require dental treatment under general anaesthesia. We analysed data from two longitudinal studies, the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study and the Christchurch Health and Development Study. We compared their methods, cohort characteristics and childhood oral health findings and discuss their implications for policy, research, and practice. Age 5 dmft was obtained in the Dunedin Study from clinical examinations, and from School Dental Service records in the Christchurch Study. Findings were consistent with respect to childhood socioeconomic status, exposure to community water fluoridation, and maternal education. Despite overall improvements, caries rates remain relatively unchanged: dmft in these cohorts, measured in the 1970s–1980s, resemble New Zealand's statistics for 5-year-olds in the 2000s. Notwithstanding the steep caries decline observed over the years, the caries distribution has shifted, whereby the greatest severity of disease is now concentrated among a smaller group of the most deprived children. Early childhood caries appears to be a useful indicator of deprivation that should inform interventions for those in greatest need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Sweden´s first multidisciplinary children's advocacy centre (CAC) was founded in 2005 as a collaborative practice between child protection services, the legal system and health care in response to police‐reported child abuse. CACs were introduced in the county of Skåne in 2007. The aim of the study was to describe the health of children investigated at the CAC in Lund, and to examine whether the CAC model of collaboration responded to the healthcare needs of these children. Methods: All children aged 0–17 years investigated at the CAC in 2015 were included in this retrospective study. We reviewed the CAC files and the children's medical and dental records from one year prior to, until one year after their assessment at the CAC. Results: Our review of the medical and dental records (n = 298) showed a high prevalence of mental, dental and physical ill‐health. After the CAC joint meeting, only 1% of the children were referred for a medical examination and 4% for a focused forensic evaluation. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates limitations in the CAC process in responding to extensive health issues of the young victims of crime. We suggest mental, dental and physical health assessments to be statutory in CACs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The primary purposes were to examine dental records of Norwegian adolescents' with and without self-reported history of restraint for information about oral health (DMFT), total scheduled time in the Public Dental Service (PDS) (dental appointments, cancelled and missed appointments), and reluctant behaviour and/or dental fear and anxiety (DFA). Another purpose was to explore their dental records for information recorded by the dentist concerning the use of restraint. Methods: Data on patient-self-reported history of restraint and DFA were collected in a population-based cross-sectional survey of 17-year-olds in the PDS in Hordaland, Norway, 2019. Patients were divided into two groups: self-reported restraint group (N1 = 26) and self-reported non-restraint group (N2 = 200). Data on oral health and dental treatment, total scheduled time of the PDS, reluctant behaviour or DFA, and information on the use of restraint were extracted from the dental records written by non-specialist dentists using a pre-set protocol covering the period from 2002 to 2019. Results: A total of 206 dental records were analysed. Adolescents with self-reported history of restraint (n1 = 18) had higher DMFT and greater descriptions of reluctant behaviour and/or DFA, and total scheduled time compared with the self-reported non-restraint group (n2 = 188). The use of restraint was recorded in the dental records of one patient from the self-reported restraint group and in two patients from the self-reported non-restraint group. Conclusions: The adolescents with self-reported history of restraint had higher DMFT, higher scheduled time attending the PDS, and had more descriptions of reluctant behaviour and/or signs of DFA compared with the self-reported non-restraint group. The patient records contained limited information concerning restraint, and there were significant discrepancies between patient-self-reported history of restraint and the recording of restraint by the dentist in the patients' records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic disrupted health care services. Previous reports estimated reductions in demand and supply of dental care services, but actual changes have not been reported. The present report depicts a perspective of trends in claims from private dental practice in the United States during 2019 and 2020. Methods: Private dental insurance paid claims data from a data warehouse (encompassing 66+ carriers in the United States) were obtained for children and adults (treatments identified by their American Dental Association Code of Dental Procedures and Nomenclature [CDT]), encompassing a 5% random sample of all records between January 2019 and December 2020. A market‐based treatment classification placed CDT codes into one of four categories based on the likelihood of being associated with urgent/emergency care. Results: Claims for 3.8 million patients constituted the 5% random sample for analyses. Substantial drops in the provision of treatment items were quantified for a large segment of private dental insurance plans at a national level, showing differential impacts in dental care categories. Conclusions: Week‐by‐week, detailed descriptions of demand/availability changes in dental care throughout the first year of the 2020 SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic were obtained through contrasting perspectives in 2019. Provision of dental care and associated impacts fluctuated over time subject to treatment urgency, but also modified as the weeks/months of dental office lockdowns ebbed in and out of the dental market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Online CPD approx. 1h 30m View webinar: https://bit.ly/3fvYjet Creating a positive patient safety culture in dentistry This CGDent webinar, recorded in January 2023, provides the tools required to develop a patient safety culture in practice. Online CPD approx. 1h 30m View webinar: http://bit.ly/3wWahmM Volunteering in dentistry: how to get involved This on-demand CGDent webinar explores the variety of volunteering opportunities available in dentistry, both in the UK and abroad, and looks at how you can get involved. Online CPD approx. 1h 30m View webinar: https://bit.ly/3DpEw8w Mentoring in implant dentistry Recorded in March 2023, this webinar examines CGDent's I Mentoring in Implant Dentistry: Good Practice Guidelines i and discusses what can be expected from the mentor and the mentee. [Extracted from the article]

This study examined stability and change of Norwegian dental health care workers' mandated reporting of suspected child maltreatment from 2014 to 2019 as well as the influence on reporting practices from regional, sociodemographic- and attitudinal factors. It was hypothesised that those factors associate independently with reporting practices across the survey period. In 2014 a census of 1542 dental health care workers employed in the public dental health care service (PDHS) were invited to participate in an electronic survey and 1200 (response 77.8%) consented to participation. Corresponding figures in 2019 were 1791 and 1270 (response 70.9%). Of the 1200 participants in 2014, 591 participated in 2019 (follow up 49.3%). A total of 58% and 25.7% of the dental health care workers confirmed ever reporting and avoidance of reporting in both survey years whereas 24.6% and 17.2% changed the status of ever- and avoiding reporting across time. The likelihood of being a stable reporter was greatest in experienced participants, those living in eastern parts of Norway and confirming professional obligations to report. At the population level, 59.6% and 79.5% confirmed ever reporting of suspected maltreatment in 2014 and 2019. Corresponding figures for confirmed avoidance of reporting were 33.9% and 37.9%. Reporting of suspected child maltreatment is maintained at a relatively high level and varies by socio-demographic and attitudinal concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Within medicine, it is common to use risk prediction tools towards clinical decision making. One of the most widely accepted assessment tools is the American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA PS) classification. Oral and maxillofacial procedures performed in an ambulatory setting would be considered low risk for the procedure itself. However, little is known concerning the impact of ASA PS on surgical outcomes. The aim of the present research was to evaluate the effect of ASA PS classification on early implant failure (EIF). Methods: Retrospective cohort study based on dental records. All treatments were performed by experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons and experienced prosthodontists. Inclusion criteria: ASA physical status 1,2,3, consecutive individuals. Variables included the following: age, gender, implant location, implant length, implant width, smoking, and early implant failure. Results: Univariate tests at the patient level showed no statistically difference between the different classifications of ASA PS (1,2,3). Multivariate model using logistic regression at individual level showed that two factors were found to be associated with an increased risk for EIF—augmented bone and implant brand. Conclusions: ASA PS 3 is not a contraindication for implant-supported prostheses. EIF in ASA PS 3 is not significantly different from ASA PS 1,2. In contrast, factors such as bone augmentation and implant brand might be significant risk factors for EIF, regardless of ASA PS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This retrospective study evaluated the performance of posterior composites after up to 33 years of clinical service and investigated factors associated with the risk of failures over time including patient- and tooth-related variables. Patients who received at least one Class I or Class II direct composite restoration in a private office in 1986–1992 and had follow-up appointments were included. Failures and interventions over time were investigated using the dental records. A follow-up clinical recall was carried out in 2020. Two scenarios were considered: restorations that did not require any intervention (success) or restorations that were repaired and still functional (survival). Multivariate Cox regression analyses and Kaplan-Meier curves were performed using success and survival rates (p < 0.05). One hundred patient records and 683 restorations were included. A total of 353 failures were reported (success rate= 48%). Main reasons for failure were fracture and secondary caries. Most interventions after failures were repairs. Replacements were registered in 183 cases (survival rate= 73%). Annual failure rates were below 2.5% (success) and 1.1% (survival). Larger restorations and maxillary molars had higher failure risks. No significant differences in success rates among different resin composites was observed. A typical observation in this sample of restorations was the presence of moderate to advanced signs of aging, including marginal and surface staining, wear, chipping, changes in anatomical shape and translucency. Clearly aged restorations were still clinically satisfactory. Significance: This long-term, practice-based study indicates that resin composites can be used to restore posterior teeth with a long-lasting durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unconventional state associated with acute dental problems may lead people to seek emergency visits for dental care and abandon routine dental services. The aim of this study was to analyze the emergency dental visits of pediatric patients in the National Health Insurance (NHI) of Taiwan in 2020. Data on the population and medical records of NHI were obtained from the websites of Ministry of the Interior and the NHI Administration. The pediatric dental patient data were divided into 3 age groups (0–4, 5–9, and 10–14 years) to investigate and analyze emergency dental visit records claimed in 2020. In Taiwan, the two most common oral diseases of children treated in emergency dental visits were diseases of pulp and periapical tissues, and gingivitis and periodontal diseases. Children in the 5-9-year age group had the highest number of emergency dental visits per 10,000 people (12.68 visits), followed in a descending order by all patients in the overall population (12.01 visits), children in the 0-4-year age group (9.65 visits), and children in the 10-14-year age group (7.13 visits). The male pediatric patients usually had higher number of emergency dental visits than female pediatric patients. We conclude that some children seek for dental emergency cares but do not continue to receive routine dental cares, especially in children of the 0-4-year age group. Therefore, it is imperative to continuously raise public awareness of emergency dental visits and reduce the use of dental health insurance resources incorrectly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de la Asociación Odontológica Argentina is the property of Asociacion Odontologica Argentina and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The present study aimed to evaluate the performance of a Faster Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (R-CNN) algorithm for tooth detection and numbering on periapical images. The data sets of 1686 randomly selected periapical radiographs of patients were collected retrospectively. A pre-trained model (GoogLeNet Inception v3 CNN) was employed for pre-processing, and transfer learning techniques were applied for data set training. The algorithm consisted of: (1) the Jaw classification model, (2) Region detection models, and (3) the Final algorithm using all models. Finally, an analysis of the latest model has been integrated alongside the others. The sensitivity, precision, true-positive rate, and false-positive/negative rate were computed to analyze the performance of the algorithm using a confusion matrix. An artificial intelligence algorithm (CranioCatch, Eskisehir-Turkey) was designed based on R-CNN inception architecture to automatically detect and number the teeth on periapical images. Of 864 teeth in 156 periapical radiographs, 668 were correctly numbered in the test data set. The F1 score, precision, and sensitivity were 0.8720, 0.7812, and 0.9867, respectively. The study demonstrated the potential accuracy and efficiency of the CNN algorithm for detecting and numbering teeth. The deep learning-based methods can help clinicians reduce workloads, improve dental records, and reduce turnaround time for urgent cases. This architecture might also contribute to forensic science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To determine and compare the frequency of endodontic emergencies (EE) with other dental conditions in patients attending Qamar Dental Hospital (QDH), Karachi during first wave of COVID-19 pandemic. METHODOLOGY:The dental records of all the dental patients (n= 1824) who attended the QDH during first wave of COVID-19 Pandemic peak were retrieved and divided into 3 groups based on diagnostic conditions:1) - non-emergency (NE), 2)- Emergency endodontic (EE), and 3) - Emergency non-endodontic (ENE). The age groups were also divided into 3 group of 0 to 25, 26 to 50, and >50. Categorical variables were reported as %. Chi-square test was used to find inter-group difference. p <0.05 was regarded as significant. RESULTS: Dental records of 1823/1824 patients were analysed. Results suggested that 54.6% of the patients were females and 50.1% of patients belonged to age range 0 to 25. Moreover, 1040 (57%) patients suffered with EE conditions, and 805 (77.4%) with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. Analysis showed that significantly higher number of females and patients with age < 50 suffered with EE as compared to males and age >50 (p <0.05). Significantly higher number of patients aged >50 years had ENE conditions as compared to 0 to 25 age group (p= 0.007) CONCLUSIONS: Emergency endodontic conditions, especially symptomatic irreversible pulpitis was most prevalent during COVID-19 pandemic. This condition was experienced more by females and patients of age group <50 years. Efficient allocation of resources and cross-training is recommended to facilitate treatment of such patients during the pandemics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The available literature on the orthodontic treatment of patients with rare disorders is extremely scarce. The aim of this study was to analyze the diagnosis and orthodontic treatment of a group of 94 individuals with rare diseases, referred for orthodontic evaluation to a university special care dentistry center (University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain). We created a control group of 94 systemically healthy individuals, paired by sex and age range. For all participants, we recorded their dental and skeletal abnormalities, oromotor dysfunctions and the characteristics of their orthodontic treatment. Some of the morphological and functional abnormalities were more prevalent in the rare disorders group than in the control group, including dental agenesis, microdontia, enamel defects, maxillary hypoplasia, overbite, cleft lip/palate, mouth breathing, atypical swallowing, lingual/labial interposition, labial incompetence, modified consistency diet, bruxism, and muscle tone abnormalities. Compared with the control group, the 56 patients with rare disorders who underwent orthodontic treatment required more desensitization sessions, used mixed appliances (fixed and removable) more often and for longer periods and had more frequent complications, such as gingivitis, caries, mucosal ulcers and recurrent debonding of the device. In conclusion, for selected patients with rare disorders, it is feasible to perform orthodontic treatment, whose planning will be determined by the dental-skeletal abnormalities and oromotor dysfunctions. Although complications are more frequent, they can typically be solved without having to stop treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between anatomical variations and the fungus ball (FB), and the association between odontogenic etiologies and the maxillary sinus FB. Methods: We analyzed the clinical records of 66 patients who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery for FB. The anatomical variations determined were nasal septal deviation (NSD) and direction, presence of Onodi and Haller cell, concha bullosa and lateral recess of the sphenoid sinus. Further, dental X-ray records were reviewed to detect any possible odontogenic etiologies in patients with maxillary sinus FBs. Results: There were 41 female and 25 male patients. Positive fungal culture was found in 60 patients (91%) and the causative fungus was Aspergillus species in all cases. The correlation between NSD and localization of the maxillary sinus FB was statistically significant (p=0.0409). Maxillary sinus FB was more common on the concave side of the NSD. Presence of dental pathologies was significantly associated with maxillary sinus FB compared to the healthy side (p=0.0011). For sphenoid sinus FB, NSD was detected in a similar number for both the affected and unaffected side and there were no significant correlations (p>0.05). However, the relationship between sphenoid sinus FB and presence of lateral recess was significant (p=0.0262). Conclusion: Our study revealed that the maxillary sinus FB was more common on the concave side of the deviated septum. Also, dental pathologies or a presence of dental treatment history were associated with maxillary sinus FB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical and dental records of Veterinary Dental Specialties and Oral Surgery were searched to identify dogs that received full metal prosthodontic crowns on canine teeth, using a feather or knife edge preparation between 2005 and 2017. A total of 160 teeth in 84 dogs were included in the study. Current follow-up by telephone, electronic mail, or electronic messaging was conducted, in addition to thorough record review for in-person recheck examinations. Treatment was considered successful if the prosthodontic crown was in place and no further or additional injury to the tooth had occurred at the time of reexamination, owner contact, or patient death. Tooth fracture apical to the prosthodontic crown occurred in 2 (1.25%) cases, bond failure between the tooth and the cement or the cement and the crown occurred in a single case (0.625%), and one metal crown required replacement after 3 years due to wear (0.625%), for an overall failure rate of 2.5%. These results suggest that feather preparation of the margin is at least as, if not more, successful as the more commonly accepted and performed chamfer margin, and thus is a successful, practical and durable option for prosthodontic crown treatment in dog canine teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regular and robust audit of conscious sedation practice is key to the delivery of safe and effective patient care in all clinical settings. Analysis of outcomes will help to highlight any necessary modifications to procedures and techniques. The Intercollegiate Advisory Committee for Sedation in Dentistry (IACSD) states that conscious sedation procedures must be the subject of robust and regular audit in which every member within the team takes part.1 This completed audit cycle highlighted the efficacy of intravenous (IV) midazolam in anxious patients undergoing oral surgical procedures and the suitability for its use in the primary care setting. No patient safety concerns or complications were recorded in this audit and midazolam was administered within the recommended dose range. By the conclusion of two audit cycles, all clinicians providing intravenous sedation within the service were aware of the missing elements in sedation record-keeping and were able to complete accurate contemporaneous records before, during and after conscious sedation, ensuring the continuous delivery of high-quality, safe, and patient-centred care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to retrospectively identify the prevalence, patterns, and accident types of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) in children with primary teeth in Vienna, Austria. Material and methods: The investigation was conducted as a retrospective overview study including all children with TDIs in primary teeth at the University Dental Clinic of Vienna (Austria) between 2014 and 2016. Dental records including age, gender, location of trauma, type of trauma, cause of TDI, and location of traumatic incident were obtained. Furthermore, the time of presentation and the time span between TDI and initial treatment were evaluated. Results: The sample comprised TDIs in 243 patients with 403 primary teeth. In a ratio of 1:1.45, boys were significantly more involved than girls. Upper central and lateral incisors were most frequently affected (n = 371, 92.1%). Dislocations were the most common type of injury (n = 298, 74%) with subluxations being the most prevalent form (n = 85, 28.5%). In 23% (n = 92), fractures were observed. The majority of traumatic incidents occurred at home (88.5%). Conclusion: The injury characteristics are comparable to what has previously been reported in other studies in pediatric populations. Clinical relevance: TDIs are a prevalent event in children worldwide and incisors are the most affected teeth in the primary dentition. Thus, dental practitioners should be able to handle these injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Repeated dental treatment of patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities under general anesthesia (GA) often becomes necessary. This study aimed to identify potential risk factors predictive of repeated dental treatment under general anesthesia. Materials and methods: Data of adult patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities receiving dental treatment under GA within a time period of 7 years were analyzed (n = 203, mean age: 41.0 ± 14.9 years). All patients received comprehensive dental treatment (professional tooth cleaning, periodontal therapy, composite restorations, and/or extractions); patients receiving extractions only for emergency dental care were not included as a second intervention for restorative treatment often followed. Demographic, anamnestic, oral health, and treatment factors were obtained from dental records. Duration of intervals without dental treatment under GA was assessed using Kaplan–Meier statistics. Potential predictive factors were tested using univariate and multivariate cox regression analyses. Results: Thirty-five patients (17.2%) received a second and five patients (2.5%) a third dental treatment under GA during that period. In the univariate analysis, patients' age, living situation, and nutrition were associated with repeated GA. In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, only nutrition remained significant. Risk for repeated treatment increased if patients were tube-fed (HR: 7.54, p = 0.001) or received pureed/liquid food (HR: 4.32, p = 0.007) compared to nutrition without limitation. Conclusion: In adult patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities, nutrition affects the risk for repeated dental treatment under GA. Clinical relevance: Identification of risk factors making repeated dental treatment under GA of patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities more likely is essential to adjust preventive measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cracked teeth frequently require protective adhesive restorations. This long-term, longitudinal retrospective clinical study aimed to evaluate the factors influencing the success and survival rates of cracked teeth with crack lines (CLs) in different directions when restored early with onlays or full-coverage crowns. The dental records of 71 patients with a total of 86 cracked teeth with different pulpal and periapical diagnoses and with follow-ups spanning over 1–11 years were included. Data regarding the demographics; clinical symptoms and signs; bruxism; occlusal interferences; eating habits; pulpal and periapical diagnoses; number, direction, location, and extent of CLs; probing depth; and coronary condition before and after the placement of definitive restorations were collected. Univariate associations between tooth survival and explanatory variables were assessed. The long-term survival rate was estimated using Kaplan-Meier analysis and the log-rank test. A multivariate analysis was performed using Cox regression analysis. The overall success rate was 93.0%, and the overall survival estimates of cracked teeth restored early were 98.6%, 94.9%, and 55.9% at the 1-, 5-, and 11-year follow-ups, respectively. The direction of the CLs did not influence the survival of the tooth. No significant association was observed between the type of tooth, probing depth, root canal treatment, and tooth loss (P >.05). The multivariate analysis showed that previously treated cracked teeth (P <.05), the provision of onlay restorations (P <.05), and the placement of posts (P <.05) had higher correlations with tooth loss. Additionally, the placement of full-coverage crowns resulted in lower tooth loss compared with the placement of onlays (P <.05). Previous endodontic treatment in teeth that subsequently develop CLs has a negative impact on the survival rate of the teeth. Moreover, early placement of full-coverage crowns should be implemented for cracked teeth regardless of the direction or the number of CLs because it is associated with a higher cracked tooth survival rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enamel defects (i.e. hypoplasia, diffuse and demarcated opacities), in particular Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH), are alterations of dental enamel with underlying implications in affected children. A proper diagnosis and clinical dental records are needed to improve clinical management of enamel defects in primary health setting. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of enamel defects in 6-year-old children attending to Family Health Centres in Talca city and comparing the clinical diagnosis with that registered by general dental practitioners (GDPs) on the clinical dental records. Children (n=318) were evaluated by a calibrated examiner using the modified DDE index criteria. Almost half of children had enamel defects (47.5%; n=151). The proportion of children affected by demarcated opacities (36.8%; n=117) was higher than those effected by hypoplasia (13.8%; n=44) and diffuse opacities (12.6%; n=40). MIH prevalence was 19.8% (n=63) and 22% (n=14) of MIH-affected children presented the severe form. Clinical dental records registered by GDPs recorded 6.6% (n=10) of enamel defects, but the type of defect was not consistent with the clinical examination undertaken by the calibrated examiner. These findings suggest that enamel defects are prevalent in the studied population, but only few cases were registered in clinical dental records. To achieve diagnosis consensus, the registration section for enamel defects in the clinical dental record at Family Health Centres may need some improvement. Further diagnostic training for GDPs working in the public sector may also be necessary.

Dental identification is a pillar of disaster victim identification (DVI). Dental identification is accurate, efficient, inexpensive, and accepted in courts of law. The (known) antemortem (AM) dental charts and radiographic images acquired from the dentist of the missing person are evaluated, processed, and compared to post mortem (PM) findings present in the dentition or fragments of the dentition of the deceased individual. These comparisons evaluate and assess individuating restorative dental work, dental anatomical areas of concordance, spatial relationships of teeth one to another, and occasionally calculate the degree of "uniqueness" of either or both of the AM and PM dentition compared to known population databases. In a multiple fatality incident, odontologists may utilize age stratification to assist other means of identification. Computer comparison algorithms using recorded data can indicate possible matches between AM and PM data sets. Following clinical assessment, collection of post mortem tooth specimens for DNA profiling generation may be undertaken. This paper will highlight modern and efficient use of these tools. The framework for how dental identification in these incidents is currently managed is presented. The authors propose a change to this approach that moves away from interpretive subjective assessment toward comparisons based largely on objective data. The aim of this paper is to highlight the benefits of minimizing subjective decisions and maximizing objective data in the dental DVI process while simultaneously reducing risk to clinical personnel and minimizing costs by reducing the number of clinicians required onsite., (© 2023 American Academy of Forensic Sciences.)

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a forensic odontologist working remotely could accurately undertake forensic dental identifications using videos produced by non-dental forensic staff operating an intra-oral video camera (IOVC). The study's aims were to assess the accuracy and time taken to perform remote forensic dental identifications in this manner., Materials and Methods: Eight cadavers from the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification (CAHID), University of Dundee, UK, were examined by a forensic odontologist via a traditional dental examination. Their dental condition was recorded to serve as ante-mortem records for this study. Videos of each dentition were produced using an IOVC operated by a medical student. Post-mortem records were produced for each dentition from the videos by a remote second forensic odontologist who was not present at the traditional dental examination. The ante-mortem and post-mortem records were then compared, and identification was classified as positively established, possible or excluded., Results: Established identifications were positively made in all eight cases although there were some non-critical inconsistencies between ante-mortem and post-mortem records. Before the second opinion, 85.6% of the teeth per study subject were charted consistently. After the second opinion, the percentage of consistency increased to 97.2%. Each video on average was about 4.13 minutes in duration and the average time taken to interpret and chart the post-mortem dental examination at the first attempt was 11.63 minutes. The time taken to chart from the videos was greater than is typical of a traditional dental examination., Conclusion: This pilot study supports the feasibility of undertaking remote dental identification. This novel "tele-dental virtopsy" approach could be a viable alternative to a traditional post-mortem dental examination, in situations where access to forensic dental services is difficult or limited due to geographical, logistical, safety, and/or political reasons., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work., (Copyright© 2024 IOFOS This work is published and licensed by International Organization for Forensic Odonto-Stomatology.)

Purpose: This report aims to describe the restorative outcome of 5,491 implant-supported single crowns, fixed partial dentures, and splinted restorations that were prescribed or had implants placed during the study period. Timing of the complications and the relationship between the complications and different factors (practitioner, patient, and restoration) are examined.Materials and Methods: Dental clinicians qualified in or before December 2004, registered in Victoria, and placing and/or restoring implants in private practice were invited to participate in the study. Data extraction was conducted by two trained and calibrated research assistants with specific training in implant terminology and previous research experience extracting data from dental records. Prostheses average time observed/in function was calculated using the difference between the definitive restoration date and the patient record examination date or the date of implant/restoration lost. Both descriptive statistics and generalized linear mixed modeling were used to describe the restorative complications.Results: Over the study period a total of 499 mechanical complications were recorded. Single-implant crowns had the largest sample size (n = 4,760) and a recorded complication rate of 2.56 per 100 prostheses per year. The majority of screw loosenings recorded in this study were inadequately described. In single-implant crowns, abutment screw loosening occurred at a rate of 0.07 per 100 per year while unspecified screw loosening occurred at a rate of 0.53. Lateral screw loosening was more common in lateral screw-retained implant crowns (1.06) than decementation was in cement-retained implant crowns (0.57). Esthetics (0.25), veneer chipping or fracture (0.41), and food packing/contact point issues (0.53) also represent significant portions of the restorative complications. Each type of complication presented with a slightly different timing profile. Clustering within the first year was common. The ratio of screw loosening between the group who prescribed between 1 and 100 during the study period and those who prescribed more than 501 implant restorations was 1:0.15 (P = .005). Patients with operator-reported attrition had double the rate of veneer fracture (P = .005). Contact point issues were approximately three times more common in the posterior segment (P = .001).Conclusion: During the period of January 2005 to December 2009, screw loosening, lateral screw loosening, decementation, esthetic complication, veneer chipping or fracture, and food packing/contact point issues were recorded at different rates for different types of prostheses in the private practices included in this study. Clusters of several complications within the first year were observed. For single-implant crowns, screw-loosening complications were less frequent in the more experienced group. Operator-reported attrition was related to higher rate of veneering material fracture. More contact point complications were found in the posterior regions of the oral cavity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document from the Ontario Dentist journal provides answers to common questions related to professional and government affairs in dentistry. One question addresses what dentists should do if a patient refuses radiographs, stating that it is the patient's right to consent or decline. Another question discusses the responsibility of notifying patients about a change in practice ownership, with the selling dentist being responsible for initial notification. The document also briefly mentions the retention period for stone models and provides contact information for the ODA's Professional and Government Affairs Department. [Extracted from the article]

Teledentistry is an emerging field in the branch of dentistry that utilizes technology to provide dental care and services remotely. It is a comprehensive approach that combines telecommunications technology, digital imaging, and electronic health records to connect dental professionals with patients who are unable to access conventional dental practices. This remote platform allows for the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning of various oral health conditions, without the need for in-person visits. The adoption of teledentistry has been motivated by several factors. Firstly, it addresses the issue of limited access to dental care, especially in remote or underserved areas where the density of dental offices is low. Through teledentistry, patients can receive timely consultations and advice, improving their access to oral health care. In addition, teledentistry facilitates reaching patients who have mobility issues, transportation challenges or cannot leave their homes due to risk factors or pandemics. Moreover, it allows dental professionals to collaborate and consult with specialists, expanding their expertise and treatment options. The use of teledentistry can also lead to cost savings for both patients and professionals by reducing unnecessary visits and improving patient journeys by reducing long waiting lists. In conclusion, teledentistry is a promising approach to extend dental care beyond traditional practices. It enhances access, convenience, cost-effectiveness and quality of care, while presenting new challenges such as data security in terms of technology. As technology continues to advance and health-care evolves, teledentistry is expected to play an increasingly significant role in oral health-care delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Forensic odontology is one of the crucial contender of forensic medicine. Medical and dental professionals with appropriate knowledge of forensic Odontology will be able to identify and produce right data at right time which will help in criminal investigation. Knowledge and awareness of medical and dental students is significant factor that influences quality of medicolegal reports like certification of age, determination of race and sex. Hence reasonably good knowledge and skill regarding forensic odontology should be known to them. Aim of the study is to assess knowledge and awareness of forensic odontology among medical as well as dental graduates and undergraduates. Study design: Cross-sectional observational study conducted among 1000 medical and dental students of Jawaharlal Nehru Medical college and Vishwanath Katti Institute of Dental Sciences, Belagavi, India in month of May 2022. A predesigned pre-validated multiple choice questionnaire containing 16 questions was used in the study. Data was analysed and results were expressed in percentage. Results: Most of the participants could correctly answer basic knowledge based questions but only few could answer in depth knowledge questions. 94 % of participants were of opinion that there is need for maintaining dental records. But only 18 % were aware of period for maintenance of dental records. 12 % of students knew that amelogenin gene can be used in determination of sex and only 13 % participants were of dimerjian's method of age estimation from teeth. Conclusion: This study shows that participants had positive attitude and basic knowledge of forensic dentistry but lacked in depth knowledge. Structured skill modules should be included in the curriculum and implemented appropriately so that both medical and dental students gets hands on training in field of forensic dentistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heavy casualties associated with mass disasters necessitate substantial resources to be managed. The unexpectedly violent nature of such occurrences usually remains a problematic amount of victims that urgently require to be identified by a reliable and economical method. Conventional identification methods are inefficient in many cases such as plane crashes and fire accidents that have damaged the macrobiometric features such as fingerprints or faces. An appropriate recognition method for such cases should use features more resistant to destruction. Forensic dentistry provides the most appropriate available method for the successful identification of victims using careful techniques and precise data interpretation. Since bones and teeth are the most persistent parts of the demolished bodies in sudden mass disasters, scanning and radiographs are unrepeatable parts of forensic dentistry. Forensic dentistry as a scientific method of human remain identification has been considerably referred to be efficient in disasters. Forensic dentistry can be used for either "sex and age estimation," "Medical biotechnology techniques," or "identification with dental records," etc. The present review is aimed at discussing the development and implementation of forensic dentistry methods for human identification. For this object, the literature from the last decade has been searched for the innovations in forensic dentistry for human identification based on the PubMed database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This paper presents digital educational material in forensic odontology, including dental identification after multiple fatalities and dental age estimation from different age groups. Material and method: Electronic patient records consisting of intraoral scans of the dentition, digital radiographs, photographs and written dental records were collected. Exercises in age estimations contained digital radiographs and photographs of ground tooth sections, with digital measuring tools and tables according to age groups. The teaching material was organised as a module in an electronic Learning Management System with external links to all relevant teaching material. Results: For the identification exercises, intraoral scans and the latest digital radiographs simulated the postmortem examination of the deceased. For comparison, all other radiographs, photographs and dental records were available as antemortem material. The exercise was to match postmortem findings with the antemortem records using the Interpol standard and reconciliation. Age assessment of children used designated tables to grade tooth development on digital radiographs. For adults, non-destructive methods, digital radiographs, photographs and measuring tools were used. Discussion: The teaching concept was hybrid, but it can easily be adapted as a fully digital exercise. The instructions and written material can be translated into different languages. The level of difficulty in the exercises can be adjusted according to the participant's level of knowledge. Conclusion: The educational material embraces the new possibilities for digitalisation and intraoral scanning. This might be a valuable tool for motivating and engaging the students in their participation and understanding of the subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]