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Background: Poor oral health is associated with adverse health, social and economic consequences for pregnant women. While dental professionals promote good oral health within the dental practice context, more broadly, women in the antenatal period face poor oral health outcomes. Therefore, this study explored dental professionals' perceptions of their role in managing the oral health of pregnant women and identified the barriers and facilitators to improving maternal oral health. Methods: This study employed a descriptive qualitative method utilizing semi‐structured interviews. Convenience and snowball sampling were used to recruit 13 dental professionals from Tasmania, Australia, comprising dentists (n = 10), oral health therapists (n = 2) and dental therapist (n = 1). Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Three major themes were constructed from the interviews: (1) dental professionals' oral health care of women during pregnancy; (2) perceived challenges to maternal oral health; and (3) proposed strategies to improve maternal oral health. Conclusions: Findings suggest dental professionals' competence in maternal oral health, but that several barriers, such as dental care access and maternal factors, hinder oral health outcomes. To address these barriers, oral health policies that support interprofessional collaboration, professional training and evaluation of existing community oral health programmes are needed. © 2024 Australian Dental Association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health of astronauts during and after the return from long-haul space missions is paramount. There is plethora of research in the literature about the medical side of astronauts’ health, however, the dental and oral health of the space crew seem to be overlooked with limited information in the literature about the effects of the space environment and microgravity on the oral and dental tissues. In this article, we shed some light on the latest available research related to space dentistry and provide some hypotheses that could guide the directions of future research and help maintain the oral health of space crews. We also promote for the importance of regenerative medicine and dentistry as well highlight the opportunities available in the expanding field of bioprinting/ biomanufacturing through utilizing the effects of microgravity on stem cells culture techniques. Finally, we provide recommendations for adopting a multidisciplinary approach for oral healthcare during long-haul space flights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tooth loss is a common problem that affects many people worldwide. Exploring knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among patients can identify barriers and challenges in following recommended practices, providing valuable insights for dental healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers. This study aimed to explore the KAP of patients with dental arch deficiencies regarding tooth loss and dentures. Methods: This web-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with dental arch deficiencies using a self-designed questionnaire. Result: 3166 valid questionnaires were included. Participants' mean KAP scores were 6.84 ± 2.27 (possible range: 0 ~ 12), 39.4 ± 3.72 (possible range: 9 ~ 45), and 27.7 ± 4.36 (possible range: 8 ~ 40), respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that knowledge (OR = 1.383), employed (OR = 1.805), family history (OR = 2.158), and treatment (OR = 1.683) were independently associated with attitude. Moreover, knowledge (OR = 1.239), attitude (OR = 1.250), female (OR = 0.619), age (OR = 0.967), college/bachelor (OR = 0.373), and master and above degree (OR = 0.418), employed (OR = 0.554) or student (OR = 0.434), with 10,001–20,000 Yuan household income per month (OR = 0.492), have been married (OR = 0.609), smoking (OR = 0.595), drinking (OR = 0.397), disease duration (OR = 0.972), with family history (OR = 1.676), and with treatment (OR = 3.492) were independently associated with practice (all P < 0.05). Conclusion: Patients with dental arch deficiencies have insufficient knowledge, positive attitudes, and moderate practice toward tooth loss and dentures, which might be affected by multiple demographic factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMaterials and MethodsResultsConclusion\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONTo understand the oral health attitudes, knowledge, and practices among non-dental professionals caring for patients with spinal cord injuries, as well as the barriers and facilitators to oral care across acute and rehabilitation hospital settings.This study was a descriptive qualitative study. Nine focus groups with spinal cord injury clinicians from two Sydney hospitals were conducted (n = 35). A thematic analysis was undertaken.Four themes were constructed: understanding the impact of spinal cord injuries on oral health and wellbeing; limited support in the spinal cord injury unit to promote oral care; strategies that enable oral care promotion; and recommendations to expand scope in oral care and education. Although most clinicians considered oral health to be important there was a lack of guidelines to support standardised oral care practices. Barriers included lack of time, limited oral care resources, low priority and difficulty in accessing treatment. Staff were receptive to an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to oral care.This Australian first study provides insight into spinal cord injury clinicians’ knowledge and practices of oral care. The findings will help guide future research in developing appropriate models of care to promote oral health among patients with spinal cord injuries.Individuals with a spinal cord injury are at an increased risk of irregular oral hygiene practices and poor oral health compared to those without a spinal cord injuryProviding access to training and development of a model of care for oral health promotion to support non-dental health professionals working with individuals with a spinal cord injury can improve access to early intervention oral health careImplementing targeted training for staff, developing clear guidelines or protocols, and piloting an integrated multidisciplinary model of care could be potential future solutions to close this gap in care.Individuals with a spinal cord injury are at an increased risk of irregular oral hygiene practices and poor oral health compared to those without a spinal cord injuryProviding access to training and development of a model of care for oral health promotion to support non-dental health professionals working with individuals with a spinal cord injury can improve access to early intervention oral health careImplementing targeted training for staff, developing clear guidelines or protocols, and piloting an integrated multidisciplinary model of care could be potential future solutions to close this gap in care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is an increasing proportion of older people in the population worldwide, with a large group being dependent on the care of others. Dependent older people are more vulnerable to oral diseases, which can heavily impact their quality of life (OHRQoL) and general health. Objective: The purpose of this systematic review was to comprehensively assess interventions to improve oral health or guarantee access and adherence to dental treatment of dependent older people. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and clinical trial registries. Two reviewers performed the selection, data extraction, risk of bias evaluation using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and assessment of certainty of the evidence. When possible, we conducted a meta‐analysis to calculate effect estimates and their 95%CIs. Primary outcomes were OHRQoL, oral/dental health, and use of the oral care system. Results: We included a total of 30 randomised clinical trials assessing educational and non‐educational interventions for community‐dwelling older people (n = 2) and those residing in long‐term care facilities (n = 28). Most studies assessed oral hygiene and showed that interventions may result in a reduction in dental plaque in the short term (with low certainty of evidence), but there is limited evidence for long‐term effectiveness. Only one study assessed OHRQoL, and none evaluated changes in the use of the oral health care system. Conclusion: Our findings do not provide strong conclusions in favour of any specific intervention, mainly due to study quality and imprecision. There is limited information about the long‐term effect of interventions, and further research is needed, especially targeting community‐dwelling older people. PROSPERO ID: CRD42021231721. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment outcome measures are critical in the decision making of best practices in the OFC field. OFC consortium working groups provided standardization of outcome measures based on previous treatment outcome studies. However, the implementation of such standardization in OFC centres worldwide is unknown. This study presented mapped outcome measures in cleft care using a structured review method complemented by quantitative overview of the relevant published research to provide initial guidelines for the implementation of treatment outcome standardization. A scoping review of the literature of treatment outcomes in cleft care following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines was performed. The selected indexed paper in outcome measures mapped following the international consortium in standard set of outcome measures in cleft care. Three hundred and sixty‐five articles were filtered. The most discussed domains of cleft care were dental and oral health, appearance and speech/communication. Overall, the majority of publications were produced in high‐income countries. The current review indicates that there are inequalities of treatment outcome studies among the domain of cleft care. In addition, there are also inequalities of published articles from HIC versus LMIC in treatment outcomes. This information can be used to develop targeted interventions aimed at encouraging cleft centres worldwide to adapt standardized outcome measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study investigates the association between dental insurance, income, and dental care access for Canadian children and youth aged 1 to 17 years. It contributes to a baseline understanding of oral health care use before the implementation of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Data and methods This study used data from the 2019 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth (n=47,347). Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models were employed to assess the association of dental insurance, adjusted family net income, and other sociodemographic factors on oral health care visits and costrelated avoidance of oral health care. Results A large percentage of children under the age of 5 had never visited a dentist (79.8% of 1-year-olds to 16.4% of 4-year-olds). Overall, 89.6% of Canadian children and youth aged 5 to 17 had visited a dental professional within the past 12 months: 93.1% of those who were insured and 78.5% of those who were uninsured. Insured children and youth had a 4.5% cost-related avoidance of dental care, contrasting with 23.3% for uninsured children and youth. After adjustment for sociodemographic variables, children and youth with dental insurance were nearly three times more likely (odds ratio [OR]: 2.94; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.60 to 3.33) to have visited a dental professional in the past 12 months than uninsured children and youth. Having dental insurance (OR: 0.19; 95% CI: 0.16 to 0.21) was protective against barriers to seeing a dental professional because of cost. There was a strong income gradient for both dental service outcomes. Interpretation The study emphasizes the significant association of dental insurance and access to oral health care for children and youth. It highlights a significant gap between insured and uninsured children and youth and points out the influence of sociodemographic and income factors on this disparity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study explores the link between dental insurance, income, and oral health care access among seniors (aged 65 and over) in Canada. It contributes to the understanding of oral health care among seniors before the implementation of the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Data and methods This study uses data from the 2019/2020 Canadian Health Survey on Seniors (n=41,635) to report descriptive statistics and logistic regression model results and examine factors associated with seniors living in the community and access to oral health care services. Results At the time of the survey (2019/2020), 72.5% of seniors in Canada reported having had a dental visit in the past 12 months, with 83.0% of insured and 65.3% of uninsured seniors reporting visits. Seniors reporting excellent or very good oral health had a higher prevalence of visits (79.2%) compared with those with good, fair, or poor oral health (62.3%). Among seniors who had not visited a dental professional in three years, 56.3% deemed it unnecessary, and 30.8% identified cost as the major barrier. After sociodemographic characteristics were controlled for, insured seniors were more likely to have had a dental visit in the past 12 months (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 2.27; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.03 to 2.54) and were less likely to avoid dental visits because of cost (OR: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.28) compared with their uninsured counterparts. Interpretation This study underscores the role of dental insurance in seniors’ oral health care access. While insurance is associated with seniors’ access to oral health care services, the study also emphasizes the need to consider social determinants of oral health such as income, gender, age, level of education, and place of residence when assessing oral health care access for seniors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study examines the association of dental insurance with oral health care access and utilization in Canada while accounting for income and sociodemographic factors. It contributes to a baseline of oral health care disparities before the implementation of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Data and methods This retrospective study of Canadians aged 18 to 64 years is based on data from the 2022 Canadian Community Health Survey. Multivariable logistic regression was employed to evaluate the association of dental insurance with the recency and frequency of dental visits, as well as avoidance of dental care because of cost. Results Overall, 65.7% of Canadians reported visiting a dental professional in the previous year: 74.6% of those with private insurance, 62.8% with public insurance, and 49.8% uninsured. Cost-related avoidance of dental care was 16.0%, 20.9%, and 47.4% for the privately insured, publicly insured, and uninsured, respectively. After adjustment, adults with private (odds ratio [OR]=2.54; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.32 to 2.78) and public (OR=2.17; 95% CI: 1.75 to 2.68) insurance were more likely to have visited a dental professional in the last year compared with those without insurance. Similarly, both private (OR=0.22; 95% CI: 0.20 to 0.25) and public (OR=0.22; 95% CI: 0.17 to 0.29) insurance holders showed a significantly lower likelihood of avoiding dental visits because of cost when compared with uninsured individuals. Interpretation This study showed the significant association of dental insurance with access to oral health care in Canada, contributing to setting a critical benchmark for assessments of the CDCP’s effectiveness in addressing oral health disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Interprofessional education (IPE) is essential for healthcare students to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams. This study aimed to identify the effect of IPE programmes in nursing care and oral healthcare on dental and nursing students' perceptions of interprofessional collaboration. Methods: The study included 101 third-year dental and 98 fourth-year nursing students. The participants were divided into mixed-professional groups of four (2 dental and 2 nursing students). They participated in nursing care and oral healthcare training programmes that included student-on-student training and discussion groups. Questionnaires regarding perceptions of interprofessional collaboration were distributed to the participants before and after the programmes to compare the programmes before and after and between the dental and nursing students. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test and chi-square test were used to compare the data. Results: Data from 79 dental students (42 males and 37 females) and 89 nursing students (4 males and 85 females) who completed both questionnaires were used for the comparisons. Perceptions of the differences between the approaches of different health professionals to nursing care, the roles of other professionals, and the need for multiprofessional collaboration improved significantly among both dental and nursing students after the programmes. Although the perception of their ability to communicate with unfamiliar or new people improved significantly only among the nursing students, other perceptions of their ability to communicate did not improve for either group. More dental students than nursing students chose nursing trainings as good programmes to participate in with other professional students, while more nursing students than dental students chose oral care trainings as good programmes. Many students commented that they learned about nursing and oral healthcare skills as well as the importance of teamwork and communication with other professionals. Seven students commented that they were more motivated to become dentists and nurses. Conclusions: This study showed that IPE programmes for nursing care and oral healthcare might be effective at helping students understand other professionals and promoting multiprofessional collaboration. However, further studies are needed to develop IPE programmes to improve attitudes and abilities related to interprofessional communication skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Oral injuries such as oral soft tissue lacerations and contusions can occur in basketball by mechanisms such as running into other players or falling. Given a high enough impact force, dental injuries such as tooth fractures and avulsions can occur. Previous research has studied the different types of oral injuries as well as the mechanisms that cause them. Yet, the mechanisms resulting in dental injuries have remained unexplored. The aims of this study were to investigate the distribution of different oral injuries within each injury mechanism and evaluate which mechanisms were most likely to lead to a dental injury. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS). Subjects who experienced oral injuries from basketball between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2022 were included in this study. The independent variable was the injury mechanism. The dependent variable was the dental injury outcome (yes/no). Multivariate logistic regression was used to measure the association between the injury mechanism and the dental injury outcome. A p <.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: This study included 4419 subjects who experienced oral injuries (national estimate, 138,980). Approximately 14.7% of oral injuries were dental injuries. Subjects experiencing collisions with objects such as walls or the basketball hoop (odds ratio (OR), 4.39; p <.001), falls (OR, 3.35; p <.001), or contact with the basketball (OR, 1.77; p =.006) had significantly higher odds of sustaining a dental injury relative to those experiencing contact with another player. Conclusions: Basketball players experiencing contact to the mouth have high odds of sustaining a dental injury. An understanding of injury mechanisms is important for medical teams to manage these injuries and for coaches to educate athletes on safe and proper playing styles. Furthermore, healthcare providers and basketball staff should encourage athletes to wear mouthguards to reduce the risk of traumatic dental injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As described in the first paper of this two-part series, increasing difficulties in recruitment and retention of dentists and dental care professionals (DCPs) in general dental practice in the UK is affecting delivery of NHS dental services. There is a significant risk to the future dental workforce supply which will affect access to dental care and worsen oral health inequalities. Understanding what factors contribute to job satisfaction and prevent job dissatisfaction of dental professionals would be useful in managing recruitment and retention issues. The aim of this literature review was to identify factors which contribute to job satisfaction of DCPs in general dental practice. Database searching was conducted systematically through PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Ovid, and the National Grey Literature Collection. Eleven relevant articles were identified, which were qualitatively analysed using Herzberg's motivation-hygiene theory as an analysis tool. Unfair remuneration is a major contributor to dissatisfaction of DCPs, but job satisfaction could be promoted through increased recognition, variety of work, and opportunities to progress. Dental contract reform in the UK should aim to minimise factors contributing to dissatisfaction and increase factors which increase satisfaction, including the development of an acceptable remuneration model for NHS dentistry that facilitates skill mix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) may be well positioned to facilitate dental visits during pregnancy for low‐income women. We sought to compare receipt of dental visits during pregnancy for women who received prenatal care at an FQHC versus a non‐FQHC setting. Methods: We analyzed Michigan Medicaid administrative data for all live birth deliveries between April 2018 and December 2020. We used billing data to categorize the predominant setting for prenatal care as occurring at a FQHC or a non‐FQHC and claims data to identify dental visits during pregnancy (in the 9 months prior to delivery). We employed bivariate and multivariate analyses to explore the relationship between setting for prenatal care and dental visits during pregnancy. Results: Women who received prenatal care at an FQHC versus non‐FQHC had a higher proportion of dental visits during pregnancy (31.85% vs. 19.37%, p < 0.0001). In multivariate analyses, the strongest predictors of having a dental visit during pregnancy were FQHC prenatal care setting, having a dental emergency visit, having ≥3 prenatal visits, and having Medicaid coverage throughout pregnancy. Hispanic or Black race/ethnicity and 2020 delivery year were predictors of a lower likelihood of a dental visit. These predictors were consistent for the overall population and for the subset who had no dental visits pre‐pregnancy. Conclusion: Medicaid‐enrolled women who receive prenatal care at an FQHC are more likely to have a dental visit during pregnancy than their counterparts who receive prenatal care in a non‐FQHC setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic reduced access to medical services and led to an increase in complications and exacerbation of many diseases that occurred during and after the pandemic, including deterioration in oral health. One of the main oral health indicators is the index of the number of decayed, extracted, and filled primary teeth (deft) or decayed, extracted, and filled permanent teeth (DEFT). The aim of this study was to determine whether restricted access to dental services during the COVID-19 pandemic led to a deterioration in oral health among schoolchildren. METHOD: Data of oral systematic examinations before (school year: 2018-2019) and after (school year: 2021-2022) the pandemic were used for the study. Systematic oral examinations were conducted for all primary school students from the first to ninth grades at Murska Sobota Public Health Center, and the number of decayed, filled, and extracted (due to caries) primary and permanent teeth were recorded for each student. The deft and DEFT index values before and after the pandemic were calculated and compared for students in first (age range: six to seven years) to fifth (age range: 10-11 years) grades and students in fifth to ninth (age range 14-15 years) grades, respectively. RESULTS: We found that the median deft index of the whole population before the pandemic was 3, whereas it was 2 afterwards (p < 0.01). For students in the first and second grades, the median deft index was 3 before the pandemic and 2 afterwards (p = 0.01), and for students in the third grade, it was 4 (p = 0.02) before the pandemic and 2 afterwards (p < 0.01). The median DEFT index of the whole population was 1 before the pandemic and 0 afterwards (p < 0.01). For students in the seventh, eighth and ninth grades, the median DEFT index values were 1, 2 and 2, respectively, before the pandemic and 0, 0 and 1, respectively, afterwards (p < 0.01 for seventh and eighth grades and p = 0.02 for ninth grade). CONCLUSION: The results of our study showed a lower deft/DEFT index after the pandemic, which could be explained by increased health and hygiene awareness during the pandemic, as children/parents were mostly responsible for maintaining good oral health. Limited access to dental services does not necessarily imply poor oral health (Tab. 1, Ref. 25). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted routine and preventive dental services until precautions could be implemented to limit virus transmission. Access to services for dental emergencies was maintained. The objective of this study was to describe the reported need for, access to, and receipt of oral health care in Canada during the first year of the pandemic. Data and methods The 2021 Survey on Access to Health Care and Pharmaceuticals During the Pandemic collected information from Canadians aged 18 years and older. Respondents were asked whether they needed (routine) dental care in the previous 12 months, whether they received that care, whether they experienced any mouth or tooth pain (indicative of a dental emergency), and whether and how COVID-19 affected service access. Results Of the 44.5% of Canadians who reported needing dental care in the 12 months before the survey, 5.8% did not receive the care they reportedly needed. Almost 20% of those with a reported need had their appointment cancelled, rescheduled, or delayed because of COVID-19, and this was more common for individuals with unmet dental care needs (46.9%) than it was for those who had received dental care (17.1%). For those requiring more urgent care, 23.3% of Canadians experienced pain in their mouth or teeth in the previous 12 months. Among those with dental pain, 64.2% sought treatment, and the majority (86.4%) received the treatment they needed. One-third (33.2%) avoided care for their dental-related pain because of fear of contracting COVID-19. Interpretation During the first year of the pandemic, many Canadians experienced cancelled or delayed dental services or did not receive the oral health care services they reportedly needed. Ongoing monitoring could help determine whether these COVID-19 service interruptions will have lasting effects on Canadians' oral health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The goals of this study were to identify oral self-care behavior and knowledge among dental students at Basrah Dentistry College and laypersons, as well as to assess the effectiveness of knowledge in improving oral hygiene performance in our culture. Materials and methods. Students and laypersons completed a self-administered questionnaires in their dormitories that included information on age, gender, tooth cleaning material, and frequency of tooth cleaning. The questionnaire was based on Google form questions found on the internet. Result. The total of 281 persons from both dental students & laypersons participated in the study. All the questionnaires were returned after the completion and were analyzed. The study shows that there is a small deference between dental students and laypersons due to the availability of many sources of information nowadays such as dental clinics, internet and TV. Dental students perform better in oral hygiene than laypersons, which is undoubtedly owing to the lectures they receive in their studies and the setting of practical work in the college clinic, which makes them more interested and motivated. Conclusion. The outcome of the study is that there is a little high level of knowledge about oral self-care procedures in dental students than in laypersons. So there is a need to educate the laypersons to increase their concern about oral hygiene and a need to provide dental students with the knowledge of how to instruct the laypersons that will visit their clinic in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to develop a model instrument for implementing family oral health care services with a holistic approach. The study employs a qualitative approach with an explorative qualitative design. The research sample consists of 14 participants, including academic dental and oral therapists, namely dentists, dental therapists, and public health experts. Sample selection is done using purposive sampling technique. Data is collected through Focus Group Discussion (FGD) using a pre-designed set of questions. FGD is conducted in two sessions, each with 7 participants. The FGD results are recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. An initial draft of the family oral health care service implementation instrument model is formulated based on the FGD results. Subsequently, this draft is validated by an expert panel consisting of academic dental professionals, dentists, dental therapists, and public health experts through a Zoom meeting. The research findings indicate that developing a model instrument for implementing family oral health care services with a holistic approach is a crucial step in enhancing the quality of dental health services. The instrument model should encompass aspects of prevention, treatment, and dental health education, illustrating the interaction among family members, dental health practitioners, and environmental factors influencing family dental health. The implementation of the family oral health care service instrument model with a holistic approach is expected to enhance the knowledge and skills of dental therapists in providing effective and optimal care to patients and their families, especially in a home environment. Commitment is required to ensure strict adherence to these guidelines, providing consistent and high-quality care to every family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to examine dental providers' familiarity with and attitudes toward alternative payment models (APMs) in a value-based care (VBC) delivery model. The authors analyzed responses to questions pertaining to VBC and APMs from a survey conducted between March and April 2021. Responses were stratified by age, race, practice location, practice type, and provider specialty using descriptive and inferential analysis, including Pearson chi-square or Fisher exact test. Analyses were performed using statistical software, with P < 0.05 indicating statistical significance. The sample consisted of 378 dental providers (women, n = 211). The majority (n = 321) worked in private practice; 170 were general dentists and 41 were pediatric dentists. Public health practitioners were more likely than private practitioners to report being familiar with VBC strategies and APMs (P < 0.003). Older providers were less interested than younger providers in participating in risk-sharing agreements (P< 0.049), while those practicing in urban locations were more likely to consider participating in partial (P < 0.001) and full capitation models (P < 0.014). Hispanic dentists and public health practitioners were more likely (P < 0.025 and P < 0.015, respectively) than other respondents to report that VBC arrangements would lead to more equitable outcomes. While some dental providers understood APMs and reported using them, survey respondents in general were unfamiliar with both VBC and APMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Distance between dentistry and medicine is a traditional and historical obstacle that affects multiple levels of the health system, especially the health policies to improve health service quality. Changes in dental education, especially involving the adoption of integrative health models in professional development, are considered essential for reducing this gap. We aimed to show a dental curriculum focused on special care as a tool for medicine‐dentistry integration. Methods: In this study, we present a new proposal for an undergraduate dental curriculum in which topics related to special care are addressed transversally and are the core for interdisciplinary integration of oral health with systemic health. We also describe how themes related to dental home care and hospital dentistry were included in this course as basic professional competencies. Results and Conclusion: This initiative is aligned with the global trend to adopt educational systems that contribute to the reduction of health care inequalities and improve health service quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The spread of COVID-19 has posed significant challenges for dental professionals worldwide. The aims of the present study were twofold: (i) to study the attitudes, emotional responses, and worries among the dental personnel; and (ii) to look for the ability of dental personnel to experience posttraumatic self-growth as a result of the distress caused by the pandemic. Method and materials: A cross-sectional online survey using an anonymous questionnaire was performed simultaneously in Israel, Canada, and France during the initial lockdown period. Results: Israeli dental practitioners were less worried about their physical health, mental health, or relationships with family and friends than their Canadian and French counterparts. The Canadian dental practitioners were most committed and most willing to treat their patients, as well as most concerned about not being able to treat patients in the same personal way as before the lockdown. French dental practitioners showed the highest level of fear to treat patients. There were no differences in dental practitioners' levels of anxiety, depression, or posttraumatic growth among the countries. Dental practitioners' posttraumatic growth was significantly associated with worries regarding their physical health. Conclusion: Responses of dental personnel to the COVID-19 pandemic varied worldwide. Despite the differences, evidence exists that some of the dental practitioners' worries and concerns are associated with psychologic growth as a result of the pandemic. Better understanding and acknowledgment of dental personnel's worries and concerns can facilitate growth and enable positive functioning under the continuous situation of uncertainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the advancements and developments in implant dentistry over the past 24 years. The author emphasizes the importance of implant therapy being predominantly provided in primary care and highlights how it can positively impact patients' quality of life. The article also emphasizes the need for sound case selection, care planning, and a team approach to ensure successful implant outcomes. The author encourages readers to share the article with colleagues and to consider implant dentistry as a valuable opportunity to contribute to patient well-being. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: This study aims to estimate prosthetic dental treatment costs and demonstrate that more accurate clinical cost information can be reached by using the time-driven activity-based costing method in a medical faculty hospital. Materials and Methods: The research is a retrospective descriptive study that analyzes and assesses financial, administrative, and medical data. The population of the study is comprised of the prosthesis department of a dental hospital in 2019. Time Driven Activity Based Costing method was applied for the cost estimation of dental prosthesis treatment. Results: After estimating the cost of the treatment, results were compared to the social security institution payment amount for dental prosthesis treatment, and total dental prosthesis treatment costs were calculated as $133.22. Conclusions: The research findings indicate that the Time Driven Activity Based Costing approach provides more precise insights into the cost structure of dental practices and can be easily adopted by other healthcare providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dentistry in India is facing many challenges owing to the increase in the number of dentists and meager job opportunities. As a majority of dental procedures are aerosol generating, the pandemic caused a huge impact on dental practice and education. Further, the risk of transmission of SARCoV-2 virus is high as the dentists work in close contact with the oral cavity. Thus, this study aims to explore the impact of COVID-19 on dental practice in Kerala. Methodology: A qualitative study was conducted among 31 dentists and 6 key administrative officials in Kerala through in-depth interviews, strictly adhering to the COREQ guidelines. The interviews were transcribed, translated, and analyzed manually. Results: Following inductive thematic analysis, seven themes emerged on "Impact of COVID-19 on Dentistry;" (1) Negative Impact of COVID-19 on Private Dental Clinic's Income, (2) Negative Impact of COVID-19 on Government Dental Health Centers, (3) Negative Impact of COVID-19 on choice of Dental treatment Procedures, (4) Negative Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Education, (5) Positive impact of COVID-19 on Private Dental Clinics, (6) Positive Impact of COVID-19 on Professional Dental Associations, and (7) Positive impact of COVID-19 on dental health-care planning and timely implementation to assure the quality of care in future. Conclusion: A secured financial mechanism for dental practitioners, strong dental administration setup, increasing the quality of dental care by continuing the existing COVID treatment practices and improving the quality of dental education by implementing a strict protocol for conducting online classes, and employing more dentists, and dental auxiliaries in government health-care centers were identified as the measures to safeguard dentistry, especially during a pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Efforts to progress oral healthcare reform can be challenging with competing interests of governments and service providers to achieve the intended outcomes. The value‐based health care approach has been adopted in many areas of healthcare but has had limited applications to oral healthcare systems. Dental Health Services Victoria, an Australian state government funded entity, commenced its journey to value‐based health care in 2016, to shift away from traditional dental service models that reward activity and volume towards a stronger emphasis on value and outcomes. Aims: To maintain the value‐based health care agenda focus, Dental Health Services Victoria developed three key principles, which can be adopted by other organisations engaged in reforming oral healthcare, to improve the oral health for the population it serves. Materials & Methods: In 2018, Dental Health Services Victoria developed a value‐based health care framework, which has informed strategic organisation priorities for action. In 2023, the following three key principles are identified as being essential to support the operationalisation and development of effective models of oral healthcare: Principle 1 – Care is co‐designed with the person or population Principle 2 – Prevention and early intervention are prioritised. Principle 3 – Consistent measurement of health outcomes and costs are embedded. Discussion: The exploration of the three key principles is an important communication tool to translate value‐based health care into practice with key stakeholders. Further work is required to socialise them to within dental teams. Conclusion: Organisations looking to commence the value‐based health care agenda can apply Dental Health Services Victoria's three key principles as a first step. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Dental Hygiene is the property of Canadian Dental Hygienists Association 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.)

Objective: The UK National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines recommend that care staff who provide daily personal care to residents: "Understand the importance of residents' oral health and the potential effect on their general health, well‐being and dignity." The aim of this study was to explore residents' views and perspectives of dental care in care homes in order to understand how to deliver this care. Method: Care homes were identified using care home inspection reports for Wales, the UK. Care homes for older people with residents having mental capacity to consent were invited to participate. Data were collected using semi‐structured one‐to‐one interviews with care home residents, care home managers and oral healthcare leads. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analysed using a thematic approach to data. Analysis was assisted by NVivo 10 software. Data collection was completed when no new themes emerged. Results: This analysis presents findings from 26 interviews with residents, across five care homes. Going into care was associated with a loss of identity. Having teeth and looking after teeth (natural teeth or dentures) was part of keeping that identity. All prioritised privacy, pride and independence above effective oral hygiene. Oral hygiene was viewed as a very private event. Carers adapted oral care, to balance time constraints, care, privacy and dignity. Teeth were a part of personal pride to the extent that two residents said they did not want to die without dentures in their mouths. Conclusion: Whilst oral care is important to residents, dignity and privacy are often more important; care routines and practices are adapted around this. Carers need to adopt an individualised, pragmatic and sensitive approach to oral care to account for personal dignity when looking after residents to be able to provide appropriate oral care in accordance with guidance. Members of the dental team need to support carers to provide effective oral care, which allows dignified and effective care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental therapists have a vital role to play in the provision of dentistry in the UK. This article examines the role of dental therapists in carrying out aesthetic dentistry in the UK dental practice setting. Patient access through collaborative working, especially through a shared care model, referral, and direct access will be discussed. In addition, two clinical cases are presented to demonstrate the provision of aesthetic anterior dental restorations by dental therapists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issue Addressed: Dental caries is highly prevalent in very young Australian and New Zealand children. Health professionals other than registered dental professionals can help prevent early childhood caries, promoting oral health to assist families establish preventative oral health habits at a child's early age. This review identifies oral health promotion (OHP) delivered by nondental health professionals in Australia and New Zealand involving very young children. Methods: Databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Emcare, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest, Google Scholar, TROVE) and digital libraries were searched between 2001 and 2021 for eligible studies and grey literature. Studies with a focus on preventative oral health strategies in a primary health care context were included. Results: The review identified 76 studies. Seven met the inclusion criteria, and were conducted in Australia across metropolitan, rural, and remote settings. Studies that successfully engaged nondental health professionals to promote oral health to families reported a positive change in oral health practices among very young children. Delivering OHP during a child's early life stage positively influenced their oral health outcomes. Conclusions: Integration of dental and primary health care increased access to oral health care and advanced positive oral health outcomes for children. With adequate training, resources, and support mechanisms, nondental health professionals can deliver oral health strategies that facilitate behaviour change in parents to improve children's oral health. So What? Health promotion generates enabling conditions that support and empower families to improve and maintain their oral health. Nondental health professionals can play a crucial role promoting oral health for very young children and improving equitable access to preventative oral health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Enfermería Investiga: Investigaciin, Vinculación, Docencia y Gestiin is the property of Revista Enfermeria Investiga 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.)

Background: To investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the patients’ attendance/distribution patterns within different departments and the perception of the dental team providing dental services during the COVID-19 outbreak in a private dental clinic. Moreover, the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on dental professionals next to the role of personal protective equipment in the prevention of infection in the corresponding teams was simultaneously investigated. Methods: A clinic located in the northern part of Tehran was selected. Forty-four dentists with 48 staff members were involved in treatment teams. Preventive strategies, i.e., personnel/operator/patient management comprising full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), high–volume evacuation suctions, primary screening questions, pulse oximetry, the patient’s body temperature measurement as well as administrative controls, e.g. disinfection of surfaces and using stairs instead of lifts, were implemented to manage the prevalence of disease and analyze the impact of COVID-19 on the distribution/attendance patterns of patients. Results: During 6 months, a 26% reduction in the number of patients was observed after the pandemic; however, men’s and women’s distributions were not affected. The department of orthodontics reported a 6% increase in new cases whereas the department of pediatric dentistry revealed the least changes in the number of patients. In the departments of operative dentistry, prosthodontics, oral/maxillofacial surgery, and periodontics, the number of patients was reduced by 10- 30%. In addition, three dentists and four staff members were affected by COVID-19 during the mentioned period. Conclusion: It seems that the potential for COVID-19 transmission in dental clinics is relatively low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of glass ceramic masses based on lithium disilicate, used by pressing technology (pressed ceramics), represents a very interesting alternative, and above all extremely effective for obtaining totally physiognomic prosthetic restorations. But, for the manufacture of such pressed ceramic prosthetic restorations, it is necessary not only a very good collaboration between the dental office and the dental laboratory, but also a very good professional training of all the members who make up the dental medical team: prosthodontist, dental nurse and dental technician. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether the persistent high-frequency noise produced by dental equipment could cause hearing impairment among the dental professionals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Method and materials: This cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the hearing capacity of 90 randomly selected dental practitioners from different specialties working in the UAE. The participants were approached in their workplace and their hearing capacity was evaluated using the pure tone audiometer. Results: Twenty dental practitioners suffered from hearing impairment, which constitutes 22.2% of the studied sample. At high frequencies, left ears were more affected than right ears, but this was not statistically significant. There was a direct relationship between working hours per week and the hearing capacity, but this did not reach a statistically significant level. The lowest hearing capacity was detected in males at a significantly lower value compared to females. Conclusions: Positive correlation was found between years of experience and reduced hearing capacity among dental practitioners. In addition, males had a significantly higher median count of severely affected hearing frequencies compared to females. Online pure tone audiometric testing is an easy, cost-effective tool that can be used to self-assess the hearing capacity of dental professionals, and it is recommended to perform this test annually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article emphasizes the importance of oral care for children, highlighting the role that parents play in maintaining good oral hygiene. It suggests that oral care should start as early as six months of age and emphasizes the significance of regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits. The article also discusses the prevention of oral diseases, such as cavities and gum disease, and provides tips for treating common dental injuries. Additionally, it mentions the benefits of fluoride and offers guidance on choosing an appropriate toothbrush for children. Overall, the article emphasizes the importance of establishing positive oral health habits early in life to ensure lifelong oral health. [Extracted from the article]

PURPOSE The Teaming and Integrating for Smiles and Health (TISH) Learning Collaborative was developed to help health care organizations accelerate progress in integrating delivery of oral and primary care. By providing expert support and a structure for testing change, the project aimed to improve the early detection of hypertension in the dental setting and of gingivitis in the primary care setting, and to increase the rate of bidirectional referrals between oral and primary care partners. We report its outcomes. METHODS A total of 17 primary and oral health care teams were recruited to participate in biweekly virtual calls over 3 months. Participants tested changes to their models of care through Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles between calls. Sites tracked the percentages of patients screened and referred, completed the TeamSTEPPS (Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety) and Interprofessional Assessment questionnaires, and provided qualitative feedback and updates in storyboard presentations. RESULTS On average, with implementation of the TISH Learning Collaborative, sites displayed a nonrandom improvement in the percentages of patients screened for hypertension, referred for hypertension, referred to primary care, and referred for gingivitis. Gingivitis screening and referral to oral health care were not markedly improved. Qualitative responses indicated that teams made progress in screening and referral workflows, improved communication between medical and dental partners, and furthered understanding of the connection between primary care and oral care among staff and patients. CONCLUSIONS The TISH project is evidence that a virtual Learning Collaborative is an accessible and productive avenue to improve interprofessional education, further primary care and oral partnerships, and achieve practical progress in integrated care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of West China Journal of Stomatology is the property of Sichuan University, West China College of Stomatology 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 aim of this study was to verify the perception of the oral health team regarding work safety and aspects related to changes in dental practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. A descriptive, exploratory, quantitative, and qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted using an electronic questionnaire sent via email to health professionals (n = 197) affiliated with the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS), from December 2020 to September 2021, in a municipality located in the northeast of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The variables of interest were sociodemographic characteristics and those related to the professionals' perception of oral health care during the pandemic and its impact on these workers' occupational safety. Descriptive statistics were performed, and the absolute and relative frequencies of quantitative variables were calculated, whereas lexical analysis was performed for textual content using the descending hierarchical classification (CHD). Out of the total sample, elective and urgent/emergency care was provided by 58.95% (n = 56); physical barriers were absent between the teams in 54.74% (n = 52); minimally invasive techniques were applied in 71.58% (n = 68); personal protective equipment (PPE) was replaced in 81.05% (n = 77) between appointments; and occupational safety was reported by 49.47% (n = 47). Textual analysis showed a decrease in appointments and consultations, with a longer interval between appointments. The professionals noticed changes in dental practices during the pandemic, mainly regarding the use of PPE, the type of treatment performed, the number of treated patients, and the greater time interval between consultations. The physical infrastructure of health units and the availability of PPE to patients needed some adjustments. A significant number of workers felt safe in providing dental care during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of RGO: Revista Gaúcha de Odontologia is the property of RGO: Revista Gaucha de Odontologia 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.)

A case study of a 62-year-old patient who needs to be treated conservatively because of a clear previous periodontal disease restored with an implant. Topics include patient satisfied with the aesthetics restored with an individual zirconium abutment and a zirconium crown; and designing bridges and crowns with modern materials in every patient case of the interdental spaces of the pontics.

Sally Khawaja details the fascinating history of the Gillies Unit at Queen Mary's Hospital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This qualitative study of dental professionals and patients with periodontal disease: (1) explored their knowledge and perceptions on the impact of periodontal disease on systemic health and quality of life (QoL); (2) assessed their familiarity with QoL instruments used to measure the impact of periodontal disease. Methods: In‐depth semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews were conducted with 10 dental professionals and 10 patients selected using purposive sampling. Audio recordings of the interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded and analysed using NVivo software (version 11, QSR International), followed by an inductive thematic analysis of the data. Results: Three themes were identified for the dental professionals: (1) knowledge of periodontal disease, systemic health and QoL; (2) experience in managing patients with periodontal disease to improve their QoL; (3) perceived value of having a disease‐specific QoL instrument for periodontal disease. Three themes were identified for patients with periodontal disease: (1) knowledge of periodontal disease, systemic health and QoL; (2) experience and perception of how periodontal treatment can improve QoL; (3) perceived value of having a disease‐specific QoL instrument for periodontal disease. Both groups were knowledgeable about the relationship between periodontal disease, systemic health and QoL and had experienced how periodontal treatment could improve QoL. Both groups also agreed that a disease‐specific QoL instrument for periodontal disease would be beneficial. Conclusions: Both the dental professionals and patients with periodontal disease were aware of the relationship between periodontal disease, systemic health and QoL, including the benefits of periodontal treatment in improving QoL. The value of developing a disease‐specific QoL instrument for periodontal disease was recognized by both groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates factors effected to oral health and well-being among elderly in rural community of Thailand, during COVID-19 pandemic and post COVID-19, March 2020 to June 2022. With a mix-method approach, 3,560 questionnaire, and we in-depth interviewed 58 of key informants. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistic and multiple regression, content analysis for qualitative data. Results shown that most (57%) of elderly were unable to eat normal food. They had a oral health of as poor for 47%, and only 28.5 % of them had access to dental health services, and not improve their well-being. Espectaily, functional limitations dominated followed by psychosocial and pain/discomfort-related limitations. In addition, Internal factors such as pool oral health, positive emotion, negative emotion, and external factors, social support, socio-economic, access to services factors were a significant predictor of subjective well-being (p<0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Elderly Hmong ethnic people in rural and remote communities in Thailand have a higher burden of oral health problems and poorer access to dental services than non-ethnic groups. Oral health offers clues about an individual's overall health since problems in the mouth can affect the rest of the body. Objective: To study the oral health care behaviors and the association between related factors and oral health care. Materials and Methods: In the present study population-based, cross-sectional study, questionnaires were made by researchers from reviewing the literature, and in-depth interviews were conducted. Four hundred elderly Hmong people from rural areas located in lower northern Thailand participated in February 2021. First, the sample size was calculated by the Khazanie (1996) formula. Then, multi-stage random sampling using stratified random sampling of the Hmong populations in four provinces of northern Thailand was conducted along with simple random sampling of each province. Results: Data analyses involved descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression was used for the data analyses using the stepwise method. The results showed that participants had an overall moderate level of oral health care behavior at 65.5%. Age, congenital disease, knowledge, perception of benefits, perceived barriers of oral disease, social support from family, and the use of oral herbs were predictive oral health care behaviors (p<0.05). Seven variables can predict the oral health care behaviors of elderly Hmong people at 50.3% (R²=0.503, adjusted R²=0.494). Conclusion: The present study found that medical conditions had a negative effect on oral health care behaviors. These results could be used as guidelines to arrange additional activities for elderly Hmong people and integrate primary care alongside the oral health care. For further study, applying health promotion theories can be considered to encourage elderly Hmong people to exhibit positive behaviors. The use of an experimental design to assess the effects of a program focusing on the modification of seven predictors for changing oral health care behaviors among elderly Hmong people should also be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Continuity of patient care is important in healthcare as it can enhance service provision and improve patient outcomes. However, there is little research into continuity of patient care in the oral health professions. This study investigated dental and oral health therapists' perceptions of continuity of patient care and the importance they placed on it. Methods: Fourteen therapists from the Otago/Southland region of New Zealand participated in one of three audio-recorded focus groups. Data were transcribed verbatim, then analysed using a general inductive approach. Results: Four major themes emerged from the data: autonomy, time management, patient and parent rapport, and job satisfaction. Therapists working in the public sector, compared with those working in the private sector, experienced a lack of continuity of patient care, and this impacted on the level of autonomy they experienced. Loss of autonomy was a major issue for therapists as it led to job dissatisfaction. The lack of continuity of patient care also impacted negatively on therapists' time management and clinical learning. Participants stated that patient rapport, trust, and compliance improved with consistent continuity of patient care, and this affected the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes for patients. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the need to address the lack of continuity of patient care and autonomy experienced by the public sector therapists in the Otago/Southland region of New Zealand. Alternative models that promote continuity of patient care should be considered; these may have the potential to improve patient experience, as well as improve job satisfaction for dental and oral health therapists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The framework has been mapped out by four working groups - representing dentists, dental hygienists & therapists, dental nurses & orthodontic therapists, and dental & clinical dental technicians - working together through a programme board and reference group. Graph The College of General Dentistry has published new guidelines on mentoring in implant dentistry. She was elected to the FGDP's board in 2020 and serves on the College's Membership Affairs Committee, Professional Affairs Committee and Membership Admissions Panel. B is the College's Patient Representative, and was previously a member of the Faculty of General Dental Practice's Lay and Patient Panel (2016-17) and its Patient Representative (2017-21). [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Effective communication can aid in improving oral healthcare measures such as treatment outcomes and satisfaction of edentulous patients (EDPs) toward the treatment process. The triangle of communication (ToC) involves communication between the dentist, dental technician (DTech), and EDPs. This research aimed to explore the ToC between dental professionals (DPs) and patients undergoing complete denture prostheses (CDP) treatment in Fiji. Materials and Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted among DPs under purposive sampling where focus group discussions were conducted at the four dental prosthetic clinics in Fiji. A semi-structured questionnaire with open-ended questions was applied to participants virtually via Zoom. The collected data were collated and analyzed manually using thematic analysis. Results: A total of 28 DPs participated in the study. Three themes were identified while exploring the ToC from DPs' perspectives on CDP treatment and care in Fiji: staff communication—dentist and DTech, ToC and information sharing (dentist–DTech and EDPs), and stage-by-stage procedural checks for CDP between DPs. Effective collaboration between dentists and DTechs is an essence of a successful CDP treatment outcome. Most DPs agreed to undergo continuous communication throughout the treatment to keep EDPs engaged throughout the treatment process. In addition, stage-by-stage procedural checks in dental clinics as well as in dental laboratories improved the quality of CDPs. Conclusion: DPs highlighted predominantly the ToC between DPs and EDPs when receiving CDP treatment in Fiji as an essential tool for effective DP and patient engagement. Discussions should be complemented with the use of verbal, nonverbal, and written modes together with the utilization of interpreters to improve CDP treatment and care in Fiji. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Limited research has focused on self-reported oral health in older Thai individuals. Objective: We explored the factors associated with self-reported oral health among older adults residing in rural Thailand. Methods: This cross-sectional study included males and females aged ≥ 60 years living in Phon Thong district, Roi Et province, a rural area in northeast Thailand. This community-based study was conducted between May 2021 and December 2021. A trained interviewer administered a face-to-face interview questionnaire. Study data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's chi-squared test, and binary logistic regression. Results: In total, 249 older individuals completed the interviews. Most study participants were aged ≥ 67 years (55.8%), with a mean age of 66.92 years. Pearson's chi-squared test showed statistically significant associations between self-reported oral health and age (P = 0.035) and chewing ability (P = 0.005). The multivariate binary logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations between self-reported poor oral health and older age (AOR = 0.290, 95% CI: 0.091– 0.925) and chewing discomfort (AOR = 4.032, 95% CI:1.119– 14.56). We observed no significant associations between self-reported oral health and sex, toothbrushing frequency, and speaking ability. Conclusion: Younger respondents with chewing discomfort were more likely to self-report poor oral health. In rural areas, nonprofessional health providers can use a single-item self-reported oral health question as a simple tool for evaluating oral health status in the elderly. Moreover, dental health education programs are needed to help older individuals improve their oral self-care, access dental services, and achieve appropriate oral function. Such programs are essential for promoting good oral health in this population, particularly among "younger" elders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the disparities in access to dental services in underserved communities and the impact it has on oral health outcomes. It highlights the barriers faced by these communities, such as inadequate financial resources, lack of insurance coverage, and limited availability of dental professionals. Cultural and linguistic hurdles also contribute to the problem. The article suggests strategies to address these disparities, including creating culturally sensitive healthcare delivery methods, implementing community-based programs for oral health promotion, and expanding access to affordable dental care. It emphasizes the need for policy changes, increased oral health literacy, and community empowerment to improve dental healthcare outreach. The article also mentions novel oral care delivery models, such as telehealth technology and community involvement projects, as potential solutions. It emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders to improve access to oral health care for marginalized communities. Overall, the article calls for action to reduce oral health disparities and ensure equitable access to dental services for all. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: Integration of smartphones has overcome barriers in traditional education; this trial aimed at exploring this ubiquitous platform in oral health education. A smartphone application promoting preschooler's oral health was designed and its effectiveness was compared with that of common oral health education delivered in paediatric dental settings. Methods: This controlled clinical trial was performed on preschooler–mother dyads referring to the clinic of Tehran School of Dentistry in 2019–2020. Initially, the dyads were randomly partitioned to application intervention or common training groups. The mothers answered an interviewer-administered questionnaire on paediatric dentistry knowledge, attitude and practice regarding children's oral health; modified plaque index (m-PI) and modified gingival index (m-GI) of children were measured. Subsequently, the smartphone application was installed for application intervention group and an educational pamphlet and verbal explanations were given to common training group. In 1-month and 3-month follow-ups, the questionnaires and clinical measurement were re-done. A generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to investigate the effect of training methods. Results: Among the participants 51 dyad attended baseline and follow-up assessments. The preschoolers mean age was 4.6 ± 1.2 years and 54.4% were girls. Both trainings improved mothers' knowledge and practice regarding children's oral health and reduced children's m-PI and m-GI (p < 0.050). The 3-month follow-up revealed a better m-GI in application intervention group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Considering the greater improvement of paediatric gingival status in the application intervention group, it appears that smartphone applications may provide a promising tool for more prolonged impacts in children oral health care. Trial registration: IRCT, IRCT20131102015238N3. Registered 28 July 2019 https://en.irct.ir/trial/40933 [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]