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A 14-y-old intact female llama (Lama glama) was presented for evaluation of a right maxillary swelling of 3-mo duration. Clinically, the animal had mild nasal discharge, abnormal retropulsion of the right eye, and moderate gingival disease. An incisional biopsy of the maxillary mass revealed pleomorphic and mitotically active neoplastic spindle-to-stellate cells organized in haphazard lacunae embedded in abundant chondroid matrix. Given the poor prognosis, euthanasia was elected. Postmortem examination and sectioning of the head exposed a large solid, white, firm mass that vastly expanded the right infraorbital region, extending to the maxilla, effacing the right nasal conchae and ipsilateral zygomatic bone. Collectively, postmortem dissection, cytology, and histopathology of the primary mass supported a diagnosis of sinonasal chondrosarcoma. To our knowledge, this entity had not been reported previously in this species and should be considered a differential for facial deformities in New World camelids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gingival darkening, known as smokers' gingival melanosis or smoker's melanosis, is a benign symptom attributed to excessive deposition of melanin pigment. Melanin, responsible for skin, hair, and eye coloration, accumulates excessively, resulting in darkened gums. While not typically a severe health concern, smokers and former smokers may worry about this aesthetic change. This study aims to differentiate and categorize gingival pigmentation in smokers compared to non‐smokers using a deep learning‐based SqueezeNet. This innovative diagnostic tool holds significant promise in the medical and dental fields for assessing the presence and prognosis of such gingival pigmentations. Methods: The research utilized intraoral images obtained from patients at Saveetha Dental College. Two hundred patients exhibiting oral and gingival pigmentation were enrolled, specifically targeting those with a smoking history and excluding cases of amalgam, metallic, physiological pigmentation, intestinal polyposis, and pigmentation from food allergies. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 102 subjects were selected from the initial pool for further analysis. These subjects were classified into healthy and pigmented gingiva, displaying brownish‐black pigmentation. Intraoral photographs were captured and subjected to segmentation and annotation using a SqueezeNet for subsequent analysis. Machine learning techniques were employed for further evaluation, including random forest, logistic Regression, and naive Bayes. Results: The accuracy results indicate the performance of three different machine learning algorithms, namely random forest, logistic regression, and Naive Bayes, on predicting the presence of pigmented gingiva in smokers and non‐smokers. Using random forest, logistic regression, and Naive Bayes, respectively, it was discovered that the accuracy of pigmented gingiva in smokers and non‐smokers was 88.8% and 92.6%, 93.3% and 95.2%, 95.1%, and 95.6%. A confusion matrix and a Roc graph were produced. Conclusions: The results suggest that machine learning algorithms can be effective in predicting the presence of pigmented gingiva in different populations. The confusion matrix and ROC graph can provide further insights into the model's performance and can be used to optimize the classifier's threshold for prediction. Thus, it allows patients to self‐diagnose and doctors to diagnose in their hectic clinical routines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory periodontal diseases associated with the accumulation of dental biofilm, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, are very common and pose clinical problems for clinicians and patients. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease and when treated quickly and properly is completely reversible. Periodontitis is an advanced and irreversible disease of the periodontium with periods of exacerbations, progressions and remission. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that damages the tissues supporting the tooth in its socket, i.e., the gums, periodontal ligaments, root cementum and bone. Periodontal inflammation is most commonly triggered by bacteria present in excessive accumulations of dental plaque (biofilm) on tooth surfaces. This disease is driven by disproportionate host inflammatory immune responses induced by imbalance in the composition of oral bacteria and changes in their metabolic activities. This microbial dysbiosis favors the establishment of inflammatory conditions and ultimately results in the destruction of tooth-supporting tissues. Apart microbial shift and host inflammatory response, environmental factors and genetics are also important in etiology In addition to oral tissues destruction, periodontal diseases can also result in significant systemic complications. Conventional methods of periodontal disease treatment (improving oral hygiene, dental biofilm control, mechanical plaque removal, using local or systemic antimicrobial agents) are not fully effective. All this prompts the search for new methods of therapy. Advanced periodontitis with multiple abscesses is often treated with antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, clindamycin, or combined therapy of amoxicillin with metronidazole. However, due to the growing problem of antibiotic resistance, treatment does not always achieve the desired therapeutic effect. This review summarizes pathogenesis, current approaches in treatment, limitations of therapy and the current state of research on the possibility of application of bacteriophages and predatory bacteria to combat bacteria responsible for periodontitis. We present the current landscape of potential applications for alternative therapies for periodontitis based on phages and bacteria, and highlight the gaps in existing knowledge that need to be addressed before clinical trials utilizing these therapeutic strategies can be seriously considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Hygiene is an important area related to personal health and socialization. Regular toothbrushing can prevent painful procedures related to tooth decay and gum disease and reduce bad breath and plaque that may interfere with social and professional acceptance. Unfortunately, many individuals with disabilities do not engage in regular and thorough preventative dental hygiene, placing them at risk for oral disease. Using a multiple baseline design, three participants who independently brushed their teeth but did not brush frequently or thoroughly were taught to self‐evaluate and record using a self‐management (SM) checklist. The findings of this study suggest that SM may be a helpful method for improving the frequency and quality of toothbrushing. Outcomes regarding supporting individuals to achieve maximal independence in these essential life skills are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study investigates the health benefits of Clinacanthus nutans extracts, specifically the 95% ethanol extract and its nanoemulsified form, highlighting their potential for oral health and diabetes management. These extracts exhibit strong antibacterial activity against harmful oral bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus, which are important for preventing periodontal diseases. They also possess significant anti-biofilm properties, which help reduce dental plaque formation. In addition, the extracts inhibit the enzyme α-glucosidase, suggesting they may aid in regulating blood sugar levels in diabetes. Their anti-inflammatory effects, demonstrated by reduced nitric oxide production, indicate potential benefits for treating oral infections and inflammation. Nanoemulsification enhances the extracts' solubility, stability, and bioavailability, improving their therapeutic effectiveness. Overall, this study suggests that Clinacanthus nutans extracts, particularly in nanoemulsified form, could be developed into new treatments for oral health issues and metabolic disorders such as diabetes. Further research is needed to confirm their safety and effectiveness in clinical applications. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of Clinacanthus nutans extracts, focusing on the 95% ethanol (95E) extract and its nanoemulsified form, against oral pathogens and their bioactive effects. The findings demonstrate potent antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus, essential for combating periodontal diseases, and significant anti-biofilm properties crucial for plaque management. Additionally, the extracts exhibit promising inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase enzymes, indicating potential for diabetes management through glucose metabolism regulation. Their anti-inflammatory properties, evidenced by reduced nitric oxide production, underscore their potential for treating oral infections and inflammation. Notably, the nanoemulsified 95E extract shows higher efficiency than the conventional extract, suggesting a multifunctional treatment approach for periodontal issues and metabolic disorders. These results highlight the enhanced efficacy of the nanoemulsified extract, proposing it as an effective treatment modality for periodontal disease in diabetic patients. This research offers valuable insights into the development of innovative drug delivery systems using natural remedies for improved periodontal care in diabetic populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses significant health challenges globally, particularly in regions like the Middle East. This review evaluates the potential efficacy and safety of Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal), a traditional remedy, in managing CKD. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases including PubMed and Scopus, focusing on the biochemical, physiological, and therapeutic impacts of Gum Arabic on renal health. Gum Arabic has demonstrated antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit renal function, as shown in animal studies. Clinical trials suggest improvements in renal biomarkers, though these are limited by scope and methodology. While promising, the clinical application of Gum Arabic requires cautious interpretation due to gaps in understanding its mechanisms of action. Gum Arabic shows potential as an adjunct treatment for CKD, reflecting both traditional use and preliminary scientific evidence. Future research should focus on its long-term efficacy, safety, and underlying biochemical pathways to better guide its therapeutic use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and oral fluid have emerged as promising diagnostic tools for detecting biomarkers. This review aimed to evaluate the existing literature on using oral fluids as a source of biomarkers for bone turnover diseases affecting the jawbone. A comprehensive search strategy was executed between August 2014 and August 2024 across five major databases (Web of Science, EBSCOhost Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and PubMed) and grey literature sources. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was applied. The screening was facilitated using Rayyan at rayyan.ai and Endnote X20 software tools, culminating in the evaluation of 14,965 citations from databases and 34 from grey literature. Following rigorous scrutiny, 37 articles were selected for inclusion in this review, encompassing diseases such as periodontitis, medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ), and osteoporosis. The quality of the included observational studies was assessed using the Revised Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Non-Randomized Studies (RoBANS 2). Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), sclerostin, osteoprotegerin (OPG), and interleukin-34 (IL-34) emerged as significant biomarkers in GCF, and they were mainly from periodontitis and osteoporosis. Osteocalcin (OC), IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), OPG, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) were significant in oral fluid or saliva, and they were from periodontitis, MRONJ, and osteoporosis. These findings underscore the potential use of oral fluids, which are regarded as non-invasive tools for biomarker identification in bone turnover. Many biomarkers overlap, and it is important to identify other specific biomarkers to enable accurate diagnosis of these conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusion Key points Plain language summary Calcifying odontogenic cysts (Gorlin cysts) most commonly present centrally and have only rarely been reported in peripheral locations. The purpose of this report is to describe a new case of peripheral calcifying odontogenic cyst (PCOC) occurring in the anterior maxillary gingiva and to review the management and differential diagnosis of such a lesion.A 37‐year‐old female presented with a long‐standing submucosal nodule on the gingiva between the maxillary central incisors, with asymptomatic growth over the last three years. Following an initial incisional biopsy, a diagnosis of PCOC was established. To exclude the possibility of a central process, a corresponding small field of view cone beam CT scan was obtained and the patient returned for a 6 mm excisional biopsy to the depth of the periosteum.Results of these additional assessments supported the original diagnosis of PCOC. Following uneventful healing of the second biopsy, no recurrence or other clinical findings were noted at 1‐year follow‐up.While rare, the peripheral variant of calcifying odontogenic cyst, and other peripheral counterparts to recognized central cysts and tumors, should be considered in a differential diagnosis for a benign gingival nodule. Gingival tissue should be submitted for histologic evaluation to ensure a neoplastic process is not present. Various lesions may present on the gingiva as a “bump”; these can represent common clinical entities, such as pyogenic granuloma, peripheral ossifying fibroma, peripheral giant cell granuloma, and fibroma, or more rare conditions that may not be adequately considered in the differential diagnosis. A rarely documented case of peripheral calcifying odontogenic cyst (PCOC; Gorlin cyst) on the maxillary anterior gingiva of an adult female is reported here and compared with the few other similar PCOC cases in the literature. A biopsy of gingival lesions is always necessary to establish the correct diagnosis and provide the appropriate treatment. Various lesions may present on the gingiva as a “bump”; these can represent common clinical entities, such as pyogenic granuloma, peripheral ossifying fibroma, peripheral giant cell granuloma, and fibroma, or more rare conditions that may not be adequately considered in the differential diagnosis.A rarely documented case of peripheral calcifying odontogenic cyst (PCOC; Gorlin cyst) on the maxillary anterior gingiva of an adult female is reported here and compared with the few other similar PCOC cases in the literature.A biopsy of gingival lesions is always necessary to establish the correct diagnosis and provide the appropriate treatment.Several different lesions can appear on the gingiva (gums). Some are quite common, and some are rare. This report documents the occurrence of a new case of calcifying odontogenic cyst (Gorlin cyst), a type of cyst that has been rarely found outside the jawbone, presenting as a “bump” on the gingiva between the maxillary central incisor teeth of an adult female. Because of the patient history, a peripheral calcifying odontogenic cyst (PCOC) was not initially suspected. Following a biopsy, a PCOC diagnosis was given. The possibility of a lesion within the bone was then excluded by an X‐ray (cone beam CT) scan examination. A second, more extensive biopsy confirmed the diagnosis and the removal of the lesion. The patient had no complications or recurrence for the following 12 months. This case highlights the need to always biopsy lesions presenting on the gums to obtain a proper diagnosis and provide the correct treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is little knowledge about home care services personnel competencies and beliefs concerning oral healthcare for home-dwelling, dependent older adults. This study aims to map oral healthcare beliefs among home care services personnel, and have the following question: How do the education level, years of work experience and training in oral health have impact on home care services personnel oral healthcare beliefs? Methods: A cross-sectional study among home care services personnel working with older people receiving home care services was conducted across four municipalities in south-eastern Norway. The questionnaire consisted of background information (gender, education level, years of work experience, training in oral healthcare, employment status) and the nursing Dental Coping Beliefs scale. Ethics approval for this study was obtained from the Norwegian Centre for Research Data. Results: Two hundred and sixty-two homecare services personnel responded to the questionnaire, 16.5% males and 83.5% females; 40.5% had had training in oral healthcare. Home care services personnel believed that gum diseases and cavities can be prevented by dental flossing (61.4%) and toothbrushing (98.4%). 59% disagreed that preventing sickness and medicines from destroying teeth is impossible. However, the majority of the home care services personnel were uncertain about how oral mucosal disorders can be treated. Having more than three years of higher education was positively associated with being in higher quartiles of oral healthcare beliefs, and external locus of control, and having training in oral healthcare was positively associated with being in the lower quartiles of internal locus of control and self-efficacy dimensions. Males were more likely to be in the lower quartile of oral healthcare beliefs, which wasn't positive. Conclusion: In the population studied, the home care services personnel beliefs about oral healthcare improved with an increasing level of education and having had training in oral healthcare. This suggests that home care services personnel need more education and training in oral healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Mothers usually have the primary role in raising children and developing health-related behaviors. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between dental anxiety and oral hygiene status of mothers and children’s dental anxiety and gingival health. Methods The study included 305 children, aged 4–12 years, who came to the dentist for the first time and their mothers. All the demographic and oral hygiene information were collected through a questionnaire. The dental anxiety of the mothers and children was assessed using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) and Venham Picture Test (VPT), respectively. The oral examination of the mother and children was performed, and their PI, GI, and DMFT scores were recorded. Results While the correlation between MDAS and VPT was positive and strong in children aged 8–12, it was positive but weak in the 4–7 age group. A significant relationship was detected between the mother’s PI, GI, DMFT, and the child’s VPT score. According to the mothers’ dental anxiety, there were no statistically significant differences in PI, GI, and dmft values in children aged between 4 to 7. A moderately positive and statistically significant relationship between maternal dental anxiety and children’s DMFT was identified in children aged 8–12. Conclusions Children’s dental anxiety was significantly influenced by maternal dental anxiety, post-treatment complications experienced by the mother, and the oral health status of the mother. Trial registration Clinical Trials-ID: NCT05563532; Registration Date: 17.09.2022.

Background: Dental caries remains one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide, affecting 29.4% of the global population. Despite numerous efforts to diagnose, predict, and prevent dental caries, the incidence continues to rise. Salivary biomarkers provide a non-invasive means for early detection of various oral conditions. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a key marker, elevated in both oral and general inflammatory conditions such as diabetes, periodontitis and oral squamous cell carcinoma. Considering the emerging connection between oral and systemic health, it is worth exploring the various factors associated with this widespread disease. This study investigates the association between CRP levels and dental caries in the United States population, utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods: The study analyzed data from the 2015–2018 NHANES cycles, focusing on a nationally representative sample of individuals aged 30 years and above. Weighted multivariable negative binomial and logistic regression analyses were employed to explore the relationship between dental caries and CRP levels, adjusting for age, gender, race, education level, diabetes status, and gum disease. Results: The results of the negative binomial regression analysis demonstrated a positive association between higher CRP levels and an increased mean number of dental caries (Adjusted Mean Ratio [AMR] = 1.7; 95% CI: 1.3 – 2; P: < 0.001). The logistic regression analysis showed that individuals with higher CRP levels have a 50% increase in the odds of developing dental caries (AOR: 1.5, CI: 1.2 – 1.9; P: < 0.01). Conclusion: The results of this cross-sectional study of the U.S. population highlight the positive association between high CRP levels and increased dental caries. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the integration of oral and systemic health care. Further research is necessary to deepen our understanding of the mechanistic relationship between CRP levels and dental caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On a global note, oral health plays a critical role in improving the overall human health. In this vein, dental-related issues with dentin exposure often facilitate the risk of developing various oral-related diseases in gums and teeth. Several oral-based ailments include gums-associated (gingivitis or periodontitis), tooth-based (dental caries, root infection, enamel erosion, and edentulous or total tooth loss), as well as miscellaneous diseases in the buccal or oral cavity (bad breath, mouth sores, and oral cancer). Although established conventional treatment modalities have been available to improve oral health, these therapeutic options suffer from several limitations, such as fail to eradicate bacterial biofilms, deprived regeneration of dental pulp cells, and poor remineralization of teeth, resulting in dental emergencies. To this end, the advent of nanotechnology has resulted in the development of various innovative nanoarchitectured composites from diverse sources. This review presents a comprehensive overview of different nanoarchitectured composites for improving overall oral health. Initially, we emphasize various oral-related diseases, providing detailed pathological circumstances and their effects on human health along with deficiencies of the conventional therapeutic modalities. Further, the importance of various nanostructured components is emphasized, highlighting their predominant actions in solving crucial dental issues, such as anti-bacterial, remineralization, and tissue regeneration abilities. In addition to an emphasis on the synthesis of different nanostructures, various nano-therapeutic solutions from diverse sources are discussed, including natural (plant, animal, and marine)-based components and other synthetic (organic- and inorganic-) architectures, as well as their composites for improving oral health. Finally, we summarize the article with an interesting outlook on overcoming the challenges of translating these innovative platforms to clinics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of the elderly population is afflicted by periodontal diseases, creating a health burden worldwide. Cellular senescence is one of the hallmarks of aging and associated with several chronic comorbidities. Senescent cells produce a variety of deleterious secretions, collectively termed the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). This disrupts neighboring cells, leading to further senescence propagation and inciting chronic inflammation, known as "inflammaging." Detrimental repercussions within the tissue microenvironment can trigger senescence at a younger age, accelerate biological aging, and drive the initiation or progression of diseases. Here, we investigated the biological signatures of senescence in healthy and diseased gingival tissues by assessing the levels of key senescence markers (p16, lipofuscin, and β-galactosidase) and inflammatory mediators (interleukin [IL]–1β, IL-6, IL-8, matrix metalloproteinase [MMP]–1, MMP-3, and tumor necrosis factor–α). Our results showed significantly increased senescence features including p16, lipofuscin, and β-galactosidase in both epithelial and connective tissues of periodontitis patients compared with healthy sites in all age groups, indicating that an inflammatory microenvironment can trigger senescence-like alterations in younger diseased gingival tissues as well. Subsequent analyses using double staining with specific cell markers noted the enrichment of β-galactosidase in fibroblasts and macrophages. Concurrently, inflammatory mediators consistent with SASP were increased in the gingival biopsies obtained from periodontitis lesions. Together, our findings provide the first clinical report revealing susceptibility to elevated senescence and inflammatory milieu consistent with senescence secretome in gingival tissues, thus introducing senescence as one of the drivers of pathological events in the oral mucosa and a novel strategy for targeted interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral health is critical for total body health and well-being; however, little improvement in oral health status has occurred in the U.S. over the past 20 years. Tooth decay and gum disease remain highly prevalent, with more than 90% and 50% of adults suffering from these conditions, respectively. To combat this lack of improvement, alternative approaches to dental care are now being suggested. One such alternative therapy is probiotics for oral care. In the oral cavity, probiotic strains have been shown to reduce levels of oral pathogens, inhibit the formation of dental caries, and reduce the levels of bacteria that cause halitosis. However, as the oral care probiotic market expands, many products contain bacterial species and strains with no documented health benefits leading to confusion and mistrust among consumers and clinicians. This confusion is enhanced by the regulatory status of probiotic products which puts the onus of safety and efficacy on the manufacturer rather than a central regulatory body. The overarching goal of this review is to provide consumers and clinicians with documented evidence supporting (or refuting) the health benefits of oral care probiotics marketed for sale in the United States. This includes defining what constitutes an oral care probiotic product and a strain level analysis of candidate probiotics from the genera Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Bacillus. Additionally, prebiotics and postbiotics will be discussed. Finally, a set of considerations for consumers and clinicians is provided to empower probiotic product decision making. Together, this review will improve understanding of oral care probiotics marketed in the US for dental professionals and consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nurses are responsible to help provide key Oral Health (OH) tips to antenatal mothers. This study aims to investigate the knowledge and attitude of nurses in concerning OH in antenatal mothers. Materials & Methods: This was a cross-sectional study on 495 nurses in antenatal health care at Maternity hospital of Erbil city/Iraq from June to December 2023 used self-administered questionnaires. Sampling was done by purposive sampling method. Data were collected using an adapted questionnaire assessing nurses' knowledge through 23 items and attitudes through 6 items on a Likert scale. Also, there was a question about the source of information of the nurses related to pregnant women OH care. Results: The mean knowledge score was 34.836±3.632, and the mean attitude score was 15.036±2.551. Nurses under 35 years old had significantly higher knowledge (35.761±4.370) and attitude scores (15.619±2.505) compared to those over 35 years old (34.414±3.159 and 14.770±2.531, respectively, P=0.001). Most nurses were aware of the causes and symptoms of gum disease, but there were gaps in knowledge regarding the effects of pregnancy on gum health. Most nurses 477 (96.4%) expressed a need for training in OH screening. Conclusion: The study revealed inadequate knowledge among nurses regarding the OH of pregnant women, despite their positive attitude towards providing OH care. The knowledge and attitude of nurses was positive and significantly correlated with age, education, work experience and ward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane is one of Australia's major agricultural industries, with approximately 95% of the crop being grown in Queensland and the remainder in northern New South Wales. In the last decade of the nineteenth century, cane growers in northern New South Wales started to see a new disease that resulted not only in the death of plants but also in difficulties in the extraction of sugar. Theories about the cause abounded, but investigations by the New South Wales vegetable pathologist Nathan Cobb revealed that the disease, previously unknown to the world, was caused by a microbe in the creamy 'gum' that could be commonly found in the vascular tissues of affected stalks. He named the organism Bacillus vascularum (now known as Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. vasculorum). For some time after, the disease was known as 'Cobb's gumming disease of sugarcane'. The Australian bacteriologist Robert Greig-Smith was not convinced that Cobb had conclusively demonstrated that B. vascularum was the culprit, mainly because he did not satisfy Koch's Postulates. However, the American bacteriologist Erwin Frink Smith came to Cobb's rescue when he proved beyond doubt that B. vascularum was to blame. The disease is now known simply as 'gumming disease of sugarcane'. At the start of the decade of 1890, sugarcane growers in southern Queensland and northern New South Wales began to notice a serious disease affecting their crops. American-born Nathan Cobb, who was the New South Wales Government Vegetable Pathologist, discovered that a bacterium, now known as Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. vasculorum , was the cause of the disease. Although others were not convinced that Cobb had conclusively proved that the bacterium was the causal agent, it was for many years known as 'Cobb's gumming disease of cane'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the use of aspirin in dentistry, focusing on the treatment of gingival and periodontal diseases. Aspirin, known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anticoagulant properties, is widely used in medicine, but its application in dentistry requires a thorough understanding of the associated benefits and risks. The review discusses aspirin's mechanisms of action, its impact on periodontal health at the cellular and molecular level, and the potential for the development of topical formulations to minimize side effects. Current studies and the need for long-term research to evaluate the efficacy and safety of aspirin are also addressed. The paper identifies significant gaps in the existing literature, including the need to investigate drug interactions and tailor treatment to individual patient characteristics. In conclusion, aspirin has significant potential to improve the management of periodontal disease, but further investigation is needed to optimize the treatment protocol and ensure its safe use in dental practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chewing gum (especially sugar-free gum) has been linked to improved oral health, however there is an absence of observational research using nationally-representative data in the United States. We sought to examine the factors associated with chewing gum and its relationship with the oral health status of U.S. adults. Cross-sectional data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013–2018 cycles were used in these analyses. Primary outcomes were the odds of having gum disease, treatment for gum disease, ever being told of bone loss around teeth, root caries, caries, and restoration. Unadjusted and multivariate logistic regression models were used to investigate the relationship of chewing gum use with demographic/lifestyle factors and the oral health status of participants. 2.40% (n = 365) of adults were users of chewing gum and the average among users was 5.20 ± 0.40 g/d. Users of chewing gum were more likely to be female, younger in age, and non-Hispanic Black or Hispanic. Self-reported chewing gum use did not affect the oral health status of U.S. adults (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 0.42–2.88 for gum disease; OR: 1.34, 95% CI: 0.64–2.81 for treatment for gum disease; OR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.27–1.17 for bone loss around teeth; OR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.32–3.12 for root caries; OR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.54–1.69 for caries), except for restoration (OR: 3.54, 95% CI: 1.78–7.06), but was associated with improved diet quality (OR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.11–3.12 for a healthy eating index (HEI) of 51–59; OR: 1.96, 95% CI: 1.08–3.56 for HEI of 60–93); and decreased intakes of snacks (OR: 1.64, 1.01–2.69), and added sugars. Future observational studies that more accurately capture chewing gum usage are needed, as these analyses have several limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gingival enlargement is a common clinical sign in the gingival diseases associated with orthodontic treatment. Its biological mechanisms are not completely understood; nevertheless, the biochemical changes associated with these inflammatory and overgrowth processes could alter the post-translational protein modifications occurring in various locations within the mouth. Here, changes in the profiles of the carbonylated and phosphorylated proteins in saliva were examined in donors with gingival enlargement (seven men and seven women) and healthy donors (six men and eight women). The sociodemographic characteristics of both groups did not present significant differences. Carbonylation was measured by a quantitative immunoassay (Dot Blot), whereas the profiles of the phosphorylated proteins were visualized by SDS-PAGE with quercetin staining. Some phosphopeptides were also identified using a typical LC-MS-MS approach. Our results showed that gingival enlargement induced a significant increase in oxidative damage in salivary proteins. While a significant reduction in phosphorylation was observed at the stain level in SDS-PAGE, there was a slight increase in the number of phosphorylated proteins identified by MS in samples with gingival enlargement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mothers usually have the primary role in raising children and developing health-related behaviors. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between dental anxiety and oral hygiene status of mothers and children's dental anxiety and gingival health. Methods: The study included 305 children, aged 4–12 years, who came to the dentist for the first time and their mothers. All the demographic and oral hygiene information were collected through a questionnaire. The dental anxiety of the mothers and children was assessed using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) and Venham Picture Test (VPT), respectively. The oral examination of the mother and children was performed, and their PI, GI, and DMFT scores were recorded. Results: While the correlation between MDAS and VPT was positive and strong in children aged 8–12, it was positive but weak in the 4–7 age group. A significant relationship was detected between the mother's PI, GI, DMFT, and the child's VPT score. According to the mothers' dental anxiety, there were no statistically significant differences in PI, GI, and dmft values in children aged between 4 to 7. A moderately positive and statistically significant relationship between maternal dental anxiety and children's DMFT was identified in children aged 8–12. Conclusions: Children's dental anxiety was significantly influenced by maternal dental anxiety, post-treatment complications experienced by the mother, and the oral health status of the mother. Trial registration: Clinical Trials-ID: NCT05563532; Registration Date: 17.09.2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions Key points Gingival recession can be considered an undesirable condition that results in the exposure of the root surface. There are many techniques that can be employed to address gingival recession; however, they frequently involve a second surgical site. Other approaches have been introduced in the past to address this concern, and this case study discusses the use of a modified technique to achieve root coverage.A patient presented to the periodontics clinic with concerns regarding gingival recession. A modification to the semilunar technique was employed to address the recession, whereas double sling sutures were utilized to maintain the coronal repositioning of the flap.Maxillary central incisors initially presented with 2–3 mm of facial recession and root coverage was achieved by use of a modified surgical semilunar approach. No rebound noted over a 6‐month period, newly established gingival margin deemed clinically stable.This case study provides an alternative to addressing gingival recession in the maxillary anterior region, when <3 mm of recession is noted. Avoidance of a second surgical procedure and/or donor site is of particular benefit, as well as maintenance of the blood supply.Why is this case new information? There is insufficient evidence on the use of a modified wingspan incision design Phenotype modification with elimination of a second surgical site is most ideal for the patient. What are the keys to successful management of this case? Comprehensive diagnosis and proper case selection Meticulous flap management and adequate release to allow for repositioning without tension Appropriate use ofsuture and suturing technique. What are the primary limitations to success in this case? Thin periodontal phenotype Poor oral hygiene and plaque accumulation postoperatively Loss to follow‐up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alongside a marked increase in the population of older New Zealanders has been an increase in tooth retention: more and more older adults now have at least some of their own teeth. Understanding their oral health demands consideration of their journey along the life course. The common clinical oral conditions – dental caries ('tooth decay') and periodontitis ('gum disease') – are both chronic and cumulative, and highly socially patterned in their occurrence, being more prevalent and severe in those of lower socio-economic position. Those who have ended up with 'good oral health' in old age are those who have had the wherewithal to adapt successfully to their oral disease burden as it has accumulated over the years. In this paper, I consider the utility of the life course approach for interpreting and understanding data, and I apply its principles to a number of important observations on older people's oral health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental plaque is a sticky bacterial film that develops on teeth producing plaque as a result. If it 'is not removed with regular dental cleanings and daily brushing, it can initiate oral health issues such as gum diseases and dental caries. This study aimed to determine the prevailing bacterial species found in some patients' dental plaque cases and dental caries and to analyze the antimicrobial susceptibility of the obtained bacteria. A total of 60 samples of dental plaque were taken from patients who attended the health centres in Baghdad with different ages using cotton swabs. All gained swabs were transported to the microbiology laboratory and cultured on culture media. According to standard laboratory diagnosis protocols, primary diagnosis was performed. VITE 2 Compact Automated-System (GP (and (GN (diagnosis cards used according to manufacturer company constructions (BioMérieux)to confirm the diagnosis. Antibiotic susceptibility test was done by using antibiotic disks according to Kirby-Bauer method. Out of 60 samples, fortytwo (70%) samples showed growth on culture media, while 18 (30%) showed no growth, most of the isolates, 29 (69.0%) were Gram-positive bacteria represented by Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and only 13 (30.9%) of isolates were Gram-negative includes Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli. According to the antibiotic susceptibility test results, Grampositive bacteria showed high resistance against amoxicillin, Cefotaxim and erythromycin with percentages of 86.2%- and 89.6% respectively. Gramnegative bacteria showed high resistance against amoxicillin and erythromycin with percentages of 76.9% and 69.2% against Cefotaxim. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to analyze cytokine levels, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-10, and IL-36γ, to investigate the link between pro- and anti-inflammatory responses in periodontal conditions and assess their potential as diagnostic biomarkers for distinguishing between different types of periodontal conditions. 80 systemically healthy non-smokers (25 periodontally healthy, 25 with gingivitis, 30 with periodontitis) were included. Clinical periodontal parameters were recorded, and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were obtained. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied to determine the diagnostic value of cytokines. IL-36γ had the highest sensitivity for diagnosing periodontitis, although its specificity for identifying those without periodontitis was relatively low. The combination of IL-1β and IL-36γ was the most effective in differentiating periodontitis from periodontal health. IL-10 was found to be an acceptable discriminator for distinguishing gingivitis from healthy conditions. However, its sensitivity and specificity for identifying gingivitis were lower. The combination of the three cytokines showed the highest ability to distinguish between periodontitis and gingivitis. The levels of IL-1β, IL-10, and IL-36γ in GCF may provide insights into periodontal health and disease status. Further studies are needed to validate these results and explore the potential of these cytokines in periodontal disease management. All three of these cytokines exhibit exceptional diagnostic accuracy, particularly in distinguishing between chronic periodontitis and periodontal health. Moreover, the combination of IL-1β and IL-36γ stands out as the most accurate diagnostic indicator for periodontitis. This combination could serve as a robust biomarker panel for the early detection and monitoring of periodontal disease, potentially allowing for timely interventions to prevent disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]