Oral and Dental Hygiene

The journal Section on Oral and Dental Hygiene covers all aspects related to oral and dental hygiene, as well as preventive dentistry, providing a comprehensive platform for the dissemination of high-quality scientific evidence in this rapidly evolving field. It encompasses original research articles, systematic reviews, and interdisciplinary contributions addressing biological, chemical, and mechanical factors that influence oral health environments, with important implications for both oral and systemic health outcomes.

Particular emphasis is placed on the critical evaluation of both novel and established preventive strategies, including oral hygiene practices, enamel remineralization approaches, the use of probiotics in oral health modulation, and adjunctive non-pharmacological therapies aimed at maintaining or restoring oral ecosystem balance. Contributions adopting a multidisciplinary and One Health perspective are especially encouraged, recognizing the interconnectedness between human health, environmental factors, and microbial ecosystems.

The scope of this Section includes, but is not limited to, the study of the oral microbiome and its role in dysbiosis, the prevention and management of dental caries and periodontal diseases, and infection control protocols in dental settings. Additional topics of interest comprise the safety, efficacy, and biocompatibility of dental materials; the use of fluoride and alternative preventive agents; and innovations in digital dentistry, including the application of deep learning and artificial intelligence tools to improve diagnostics, risk prediction, and personalized preventive strategies.

Furthermore, this Section promotes research on oral health across the lifespan, including pediatric and geriatric populations, as well as oral health education, behavioral interventions, and strategies to reduce health disparities. Special attention is also devoted to the relationship between oral and systemic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and sustainable practices in dentistry, such as dental waste management and environmental impact assessment.