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Background: Ocular health is significant as undetected and untreated eye conditions can lead to vision loss and blindness. Usually, dentists, dental assisting staff, and patients undergoing frequent dental corrections are likely affected by eye injuries. Methods: This survey aimed to evaluate eye safety protocols in the dental fraternity. A prevalidated questionnaire was given to practicing graduate and postgraduate dentists to obtain details of the eye safety protocol they adopted. Results: A total of 150 dentists approached; only 125 chose to participate in the survey and answered our questionnaire. Although most dentists used eye protection for themselves, primarily personal eyeglasses and face shields, eye injury was quite common in them. Conclusion: Data from this study revealed that the use of eye safety practices among the respondents could be improved. Clinicians should be aware that they are responsible for providing adequate eye protection for themselves and their assisting staff and patients. Keywords: Dental procedures, dental surgeons, eye safety, goggle use, Author(s): Vijayalaxmi Nimma [1]; Maitri Bayani [1]; Amara S. Lingam (corresponding author) [2]; Easwaran Ramaswami [1]; Lavanya Reddy [3]; Sonali Kadam [1] INTRODUCTION According to World Health Organization, ocular health [...]

Background: Mucormycosis is a potentially lethal fungal infection, and the risk of secondary infections is more in patients with COVID-19. This may be because of pre-existing comorbidities or the immunosuppressive treatment taken during the COVID-19 infection. Early diagnosis is of utmost importance for patient survival. Aims and Objectives: This study was designed to grade the patients of rhino-orbital-maxillary mucormycosis in post-COVID-19 patients in a structured way based on the symptoms and clinical and radiographic findings and to find a correlation with various predisposing factors. Materials and Methods: A total of 102 patients with confirmed rhino-orbital-maxillary mucormycosis and a history of COVID-19 recovery, who understand the protocol and can give informed consent, were included in the study. Results: In the present study, 73.5% were found to be males and 26.5% were found to be females. The 31–40 age group was more affected among males, and the 41–50 age group was among females. The most common associated comorbidity was found to be uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Out of 102 patients, 53.9% patients reported being in grade II, followed by 33.3% in grade III, and 12.7% in grade I. Conclusion: The grading system of rhino-orbital-maxillary mucormycosis was found to be significant; hence, it can be used for the early diagnosis and prevention of severe consequences.

Background: Determination of gender from unidentified skeletal residue remains an arduous task in a forensic setting and for medico-legal assessment. The use of mandible in the field of human identification is less explored. Therefore, this study was done to analyze sexual dimorphism by identifying the relative location of mandibular canal and the mandibular and mental foramina using cone beam computed tomography images in a sample of south Indian inhabitants. Materials and Methods: This study was done on one hundred twenty cone beam computed tomography images (sixty males and sixty females) with an age range of twenty to sixty years. In these images, eight measurements were performed: six measurements in the coronal view and two measurements in the axial view. The variables between the sexes were compared using a student's t-test with level of significance of < 0.05. Results: All the eight variables were significant in predicting gender (P < 0.05). The mean values of all the measurements were higher in males except for one measurement which was higher in females. A logistic formula was obtained with all the variables to predict gender. Conclusion: The mandibular canal and the foramina showed significant differences among males and females of the study population. Therefore, the location of the mandibular canal and mental foramina can be used for gender determination in the study population.

Introduction: Saliva lacks the drama of blood, the sincerity of sweat and the emotional appeal of tears, yet it is the ‘sine qua non’ of the oral cavity and can prove to be the most important fluid playing a vital role in forensics. Saliva deposited on the skin by the act of biting and licking can be an important source of forensic evidence. Saliva has an enzyme α-amylase, containing tryptophan which is an important aromatic amino acid constituent. This when excited at 254 nm gives a characteristic emission spectrum at 345-355 nm. Fluorescent spectroscopy method was used to detect enzyme α-amylase in forensic identification. Aim: To detect dried saliva on the human skin by fluorescent spectroscopy. Materials and Methods: This study was planned and conducted at IICT (Indian Institute of Chemical Technology) Hyderabad. It includes 20 saliva samples of volunteers, where in the investigator took a swab from the skin of the ventral surface of forearm deposited by licking on the arm and was diluted in 0.1M Potassium Chloride (KCl), which were randomly selected from the population. A control sample of water was deposited on the contralateral arm. Each sample was excited at 254 nm and emission spectrum of both saliva and water samples were recorded. Results: The emission spectra of 20 swab samples taken from dried saliva were characterised at the primary peak of 340 to 350 nm whereas the emission spectrum of water as a control was recorded at 360 nm. Conclusion: The presence of emission spectrum at 340–350 nm with excitation at 254 nm proves to be a strong indicator of saliva detection by Fluorescent Spectroscopy, deposited on the human skin and hence detection of saliva helps in further forensic investigation for identification of suspect.

Objective: To assess the oral and dental manifestations in nondiabetic and diabetic uraemic patients who were undergoing haemodialysis and to estimate and compare the salivary pH in these two groups. Material and Methods: Ninety Seven uraemic patients who were undergoing maintenance haemodialysis were included in the study. Subjective and objective findings were evaluated and recorded in a specially designed proforma. Predialytic unstimulated whole salivary pH was recorded by using pHmeasuring strips. Dental health assessment consisted of DMFT and CPITN indices. Results: A subjective oral manifestation of dysguesia was found to be more significant in non-diabetic patients (p

ABSTRACT: Graft versus host disease (GVHD or GHz) is a pathological condition in which cells from the transplanted tissue of a donor initiate an immunologic attack on the cells and tissue of the recipient. Generally, transfer of tissues between normal individuals usually results in the recognition and destruction (rejection) of the foreign tissue in a host-versus-graft reaction but immunologically competent cells contained in the transplanted tissue or graft can result in immunologic recognition in the other direction, initiating a graft-versus-host (GVH) reaction. GVHD is a serious, life-threatening disease and it is major complication of bone marrow transplant. The bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside the large bones in the body that makes blood cells and platelets. GVHD may happen in the (short term) acute, or (later after transplantation) chronic, in which case a wider range of organs can be involved.

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of Transcutaneous Electric Nerve stimulation (TENS) on whole salivary flow rate in healthy adult subjects and to find out whether the protocol utilized for collection of saliva influence the quantity of saliva stimulated. Materials and Methods: Using an extraoral TENS applied over parotid glands stimulated whole saliva flow rate in fifty healthy adult subjects was measured Collection of TENS stimulated saliva was performed on day 1 after collection of unstimulated saliva, on day 2 only TENS stimulated saliva was measured. The data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis using paired ‘t’ test. Results: Thirty nine patients on day one and thirty six patients on day two out of 50 (75 % of the subjects tested) responded to TENS therapy with an increase of stimulated whole saliva flow rate .There was a reduction in quantity of TENS stimulated saliva on day one and two with a difference of 4% which statistically significant with p value 0.009. Conclusions: Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) as an extra-oral device can be considered as a safe, non-pharmacological measure in order to achieve an increase of the rate of unstimulated saliva. Further studies should be conducted to evaluate the possibility of using TENS in relieving the symptoms of xerostomia.

Introduction: Thyroid carcinoma represents less than 1% of all cancers. The first line of treatment for thyroid cancer is partial/ total thyroidectomy. High-dose Iodine131 therapy using Iodine radioisotopes is commonly used in patients with well differentiated thyroid carcinoma after total thyroidectomy. In this process, the non-thyroidal tissues, such as, salivary gland, stomach and breast tissues also take up radioactive iodine. Salivary gland scintigraphy is widely accepted as a sensitive and valid method for evaluation of salivary gland dysfunction after Radioactive Iodine131 Therapy (RIT). Aim: To assess and compare the salivary flow rates, relative uptake and ejection fractions in parotid and submandibular glands just before and one month after Iodine131 therapy. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 24 patients diagnosed with well differentiated thyroid carcinoma who underwent partial/total thyroidectomy and were due for radioactive iodine therapy. These patients were divided into two groups based on the lesion based dosimetry (Group A: 60-100Gy; Group B: 100- 150Gy). Salivary gland assessment was done by salivary gland scintigraphy before and after RIT. Statistical Analysis: The data collected was tabulated and statistically analysed using SPSS software version16 using paired t-test and individual sample t-test. Results: A statistically significant difference in the uptake percent and ejection fraction percent in the parotid and submandibular glands before RIT and one month after RIT was observed in the study. Conclusion: We inferred from the study that there was an overall decrease in uptake percent and ejection fraction percent one month post RIT in both parotid and submandibular glands. Also, a statistically significant difference was noted in the uptake and ejection fraction percent between Group A and Group B concluding the fact that the damage is dose related.

Background: The use of technology in the form of smart phones and other electronic media in day to day life has become an integral part of life today. Technology today is seeing a paradigm shift towards better inter-professional communications which can help doctors, patients and the masses as a whole. Putting these technological advancements to good use evolves as a major milestone in medicine/ dentistry in the form of telemedicine/teledentistry. Aim: The present study was aimed at knowing the knowledge and awareness of teledentistry among dental professionals of a dental college in India. Settings and Design: The study was conducted in a dental college in India and was circulated among dental professionals. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was prepared to assess the knowledge and awareness of teledentistry and was circulated among dental professionals in a dental college. The data thus collected was statistically analysed and results obtained. Statistical analysis: The data collected was statistically analysed using SPSS software. Results: A total of 406 persons responded to the questionnaire. In the present study it was found that the knowledge and awareness about teledentistry was very low among post graduates (7.23%) and interns (9.38%) when compared to I & II BDS while most of them agreed that teledentistry is a practice of dentistry through various media options with limited application in dentistry without a legal issue. Conclusion: In the present study, it was apparent that most of the respondents were lacking adequate knowledge and awareness on teledentistry. Hence, there is an immense need to create awareness among dental professionals on teledentistry as the future lies in technological advancement. Tele dentistry can mark the beginning of a new era in dentistry. This can be achieved by conducting CDE programs and awareness campaigns/programs which helps in various levels.

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of aloe vera gel in the treatment of oral lichen planus when compared with triamcinolone acetonide. Method and Materials: A randomized, double-blind, clinical trial was designed. The study sample constituted 40 patients (23 males and 17 females) who were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group A patients received aloe vera gel, while group B patients received triamcinolone acetonide. Results: Forty patients were included in the study. Most of the sample presented with erosive (n = 18) and atrophic (n = 14) variants of oral lichen planus. When clinical signs and symptoms were observed after 8 weeks of therapy, it was determined that aloe vera gel was more effective than triamcinolone acetonide in the treatment of oral lichen planus. Conclusion: Aloe vera gel can be considered a safe alternative treatment for oral lichen planus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the oral and dental manifestations in nondiabetic and diabetic uraemic patients who were undergoing haemodialysis and to estimate and compare the salivary pH in these two groups. Material and Methods: Ninety Seven uraemic patients who were undergoing maintenance haemodialysis were included in the study. Subjective and objective findings were evaluated and recorded in a specially designed proforma. Predialytic unstimulated whole salivary pH was recorded by using pH-measuring strips. Dental health assessment consisted of DMFT and CPITN indices. Results: A subjective oral manifestation of dysguesia was found to be more significant in non-diabetic patients (p<0.008). Statistically, a high significance was observed with mucosal petechiae in 31.9% patients of diabetic group .The overall DMFT score was significantly higher in diabetic group. A moderate significance was found with a CPI score of 5 (p<0.015). The pH of saliva was significantly higher among diabetic patients. Conclusion: The diabetic subjects who were on haemodialysis were at a high risk for developing periodontal disease and they exhibited a potential threat for dental decay and xerostomia. A lower salivary pH and a poor glycaemic control may affect their oral health. Further research is required to clarify the combined influence of diabetic nephropathy on oral health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The study aims to determine the frequency of positioning errors, record the number of diagnostically inappropriate images, and assess the quality of panoramic radiographs., Materials and Methods: In this study, a total of 2629 patients for whom orthopantomogram were selected out of 3900 new patients between August 2020 and June 2021. The positioning errors of the radiographs were evaluated and categorized into ten groups. The quality of the radiographs is further assessed as "Excellent," "Diagnostically Acceptable," and "Diagnostically Unacceptable.", Results: Out of the total radiographs, 32.8% had no errors, and 77.2% of the radiographs had one or more positioning errors. The radiographs were analyzed in detail, and the errors found in the panoramic radiographs were recorded. The most common positioning error observed in the radiograph was error 8, failure to place the tongue close to the palate., Conclusion: The results and evaluation inferred that attention to patient positioning and focusing on reducing diagnostically indecent images could improve the quality of panoramic radiographs. Proper instructions to the patient, patient preparation, appropriate positioning of the patient, and the technician's skill plays a vital role in reducing diagnostic errors in Panoramic Radiography., Competing Interests: None

Background: India is one of the largest and most populated country in the world, with over one billion inhabitants. Of this number, it is estimated that around 23.9 lakh people are currently suffering with HIV. People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) require increasingly competent and compassionate health care, including oral health care., Objectives: The present study was conducted with the objective of evaluating the response of dental health care professionals (staff and students) in willingness to provide treatment to HIV/AIDS patients and whether the training and education provided to them is sufficient to handle such patients, or whether there is necessity for advanced curriculum to be implemented., Materials and Methods: An anonymous survey with the permission from ethical committee of dental institution was conducted with the use self-administered questionnaire eliciting information on self-rated HIV/AIDS knowledge, attitudes, infection control practices, occupational risk perception and willingness to treat HIV/AIDS patients., Results: An increase in level of knowledge was observed with the increase in year of study from first BDS to post graduation and MDS staff. It was observed that interns and post graduate students were willing to treat patients with HIV/AIDS. Staff of the institution showed greater concern to undergo training to provide efficient treatment to patients with HIV/AIDS., Conclusion: It was concluded that there was a positive attitude and willingness of staff and students to treat a patient suffering with HIV/AIDS. Also, there was willingness and interest of the staff and students of the dental institution to participate in training programmes to provide better and more efficient treatment to HIV/AIDS patients.