Search Results (228)

Background/Objectives: Dental caries is the most prevalent oral condition worldwide. Consequences of untreated dental caries (CUDC) can range from pulp damage and soft tissue ulceration due to root debris to more severe issues, such as fistulas and abscesses. Rural communities might be more vulnerable to CUDC because of lower socioeconomic status, poorer access to healthcare, and lower education levels. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the prevalence of CUDC in rural and urban areas in schoolchildren aged 8 to 12 years in the State of Mexico. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the PUFA index, considering the presence of pulp involvement (P), soft tissue ulcerations due to root remnants (U), fistulas (F), and abscesses (A). The independent variable was the geographic area (rural or urban), and the covariates were nutritional status, hyposalivation, having one’s own toothbrush, and having received topical fluoride in the last year. Logistic regression models were fitted, calculating odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: The prevalence of CUDC (PUFA > 0) was 42.9% in rural areas and 25.9% in urban areas. Residing in a rural area (OR: 2.15, 95% CI 1.38–3.34, p = 0.001), hyposalivation (OR: 1.93, 95% CI 1.11–3.37, p = 0.020), and professional fluoride application (OR: 0.15, 95% CI 0.07–0.32, p < 0.001) were associated with the prevalence of CUDC. Conclusions: To prevent caries and its clinical consequences due to the lack of treatment, it is important to promote timely care seeking and access to dental care services, considering the conditions of each geographic area. Full article

Objectives: Digitalization has revolutionized dentistry, introducing advanced technological tools that improve diagnostic accuracy and access to healthcare. This study aims to examine the effects of integrating digital technologies into the dental field, analyzing the associated benefits and risks, with particular paid attention to the therapeutic relationship and decision-making autonomy. Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, complemented by Google Scholar for non-indexed studies. The selection criteria included peer-reviewed studies published in English between 2014 and 2024, focusing on digital dentistry, artificial intelligence, and medical ethics. This is a narrative review. Elements of PRISMA guidelines were applied to enhance transparency in reporting. Results: The analysis highlighted that although digital technologies and AI offer significant benefits, such as more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatments, there are associated risks, including the loss of empathy in the dentist–patient relationship, the risk of overdiagnosis, and the possibility of bias in the data. Conclusions: The balance between technological innovation and the centrality of the dentist is crucial. A human and ethical approach to digital medicine is essential to ensure that technologies improve patient care without compromising the therapeutic relationship. To preserve the quality of dental care, it is necessary to integrate digital technologies in a way that supports, rather than replaces, the therapeutic relationship. Full article

Oral health during pregnancy is essential for maternal and child well-being, as hormonal and physiological changes increase women’s susceptibility to oral diseases. Despite the recognized importance of prenatal dental care, adherence to dental services remains a challenge in the public health context. This study aimed to analyze oral health and the use of dental services during pregnancy through the perception of pregnant women. It represents the qualitative phase of a mixed-method study conducted with 25 pregnant women (with and without dental care) receiving prenatal care in the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). Participants were selected through saturation sampling, and data were collected via semi-structured interviews, followed by content analysis. The findings revealed four major themes: barriers and facilitators to dental care, changes during pregnancy and oral health. Discomfort from oral changes was a common concern. Barriers included misinformation, fear, cultural beliefs, and service organization. In contrast, facilitating factors were identified, such as care prioritization, support from healthcare teams, health education, and access through SUS. This study concludes that emotional, cultural, and contextual aspects shape the use of dental services during pregnancy. Access through SUS is perceived as an important facilitator, which simultaneously presents organizational weaknesses that need to be addressed. Full article

Introduction: Dental caries and molar–incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) are prevalent conditions affecting children’s oral health, with functional, aesthetic, and psychosocial implications. In Spain, previous studies have highlighted geographic and sociodemographic disparities in their distribution, particularly among rural and migrant populations. Objective: To characterise oral health status, in terms of caries and MIH, among 6–7-year-old children from the towns of Palos de la Frontera, Mazagón, and San Bartolomé. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 229 children recruited from public primary schools. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, and behavioural data were collected through clinical examination and interview. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate logistic regression. The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Huelva. Results: The prevalence of caries (DMFT ≥ 1) was 53.3%, with mean DMFT and dft indices of 1.78 and 0.31, respectively. MIH affected 32.8% of the cohort, with a predominance in the first permanent molars (teeth 36 and 26). Multivariate analysis identified independent predictors of caries: African (OR = 7.47; 95% CI: 2.84–23.8) and European (OR = 4.56; 95% CI: 1.26–22.3) parental origin, poor oral hygiene (OR = 3.07; 95% CI: 1.60–6.03), and the presence of MIH (OR = 3.20; 95% CI: 1.64–6.42). The municipality of San Bartolomé was associated with a higher risk of MIH (OR = 2.90; 95% CI: 1.21–7.45). Conclusions: The high prevalence of caries and MIH in the Condado-Campiña district, exceeding national averages, reflects oral health inequities linked to social determinants (migrant origin, locality) and clinical factors (MIH, oral hygiene). Targeted preventive interventions are urgently needed in high-risk populations, including culturally tailored education and policies ensuring equitable access to dental care services. Full article

Background/Objectives: Migraine affects approximately 3–10% of school-aged children and up to 28% of adolescents, with prevalence increasing during adolescence. For pediatric specialty providers, increased awareness of this condition may influence patient care. This study examined pediatric dentists’ education, clinical exposure, and perceived knowledge gaps related to pediatric migraine, with the goal of identifying barriers to recognition and referral, as well as informing future training to support accurate diagnosis and interdisciplinary care. Methods: A 28-item electronic questionnaire was distributed to all members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, including pediatric dentists and postgraduate pediatric dental residents, assessing knowledge, beliefs, clinical experience, and interest in further training regarding pediatric headache/migraine management. Respondents with and without previous training were compared in terms of general understanding using t-tests; a linear regression model analyzed predictors of provider awareness regarding links between oral conditions and headache/migraine. Results: Among 315 respondents, the mean self-perceived awareness score was 2.7 ± 1.3 (on a 0–5 scale). The most frequently identified contributing factors were clenching (73.7%), bruxism (72.4%), and temporomandibular disorders (65.7%). Nearly all respondents (95.2%) reported no formal education on headache/migraine prevention, yet 78.1% agreed on the importance of understanding the relationship between oral health and headache/migraine. Respondents with prior training were significantly more aware (p < 0.001) than those without prior training. Educating families (p < 0.001), frequency of patient encounters with headache (p = 0.032), coordination with healthcare providers (p = 0.002), and access to appropriate management resources (p < 0.001) were significant predictors of providers’ awareness. Conclusions: Pediatric dental providers expressed strong interest in enhancing their knowledge of headache/migraine management, highlighting the value of integrating headache/migraine-related education into training programs and promoting greater interdisciplinary collaboration. Full article

Background: In Canada, despite universal healthcare coverage, dental care remains predominantly privately financed, creating financial barriers that prevent many from accessing essential services. This case study is part of a larger initiative, the One Smile Research program, which evaluates the impact of cost-free dental care on the oral health and overall well-being of individuals who have been unable to access dental services in the past two years due to financial constraints. Participants in the program receive necessary dental care and attend follow-up appointments to assess the long-term effects of continuous cost-free care. Clinical Case: This mixed-methods case report focuses on a 26-year-old male participant and integrates a qualitative semi-structured interview with clinical and self-reported data, providing an in-depth understanding of his experiences. Results: Clinical outcomes demonstrated the effectiveness of the provided dental treatments, while self-reported measures indicated improved oral health, satisfaction with dental appearance, enhanced psychosocial well-being, increased self-esteem, reduced dental anxiety, and better oral hygiene habits. The qualitative interview identified three key themes reflecting positive experiences with the program: ease of admission, staff kindness, and overall well-being improvement. The integration of both quantitative and qualitative analyses revealed significant advancements in both objective and subjective measures, particularly regarding overall well-being. Conclusions: The continuity of cost-free dental care effectively addressed the participant’s oral health and overall well-being, with most benefits sustained even at the two-year follow-up. These individual-level outcomes offer preliminary insight into the potential advantages of universal dental coverage within the Canadian healthcare system. Full article

This study presents the findings of an academic extension project focused on promoting oral health and diagnosing oral lesions in institutionalized elderly individuals. The project involved visits by students and faculty to two nursing homes in southern Brazil. Data collection included extraoral and intraoral clinical examinations and educational activities such as lectures and the distribution of printed materials on oral and denture hygiene. According to caregiving staff, oral hygiene, including denture cleaning, was generally performed once daily during morning showers. A total of 118 older adults (68 males and 50 females; mean age 76.1 ± 8.6 years) were examined. Forty-nine used dentures, of whom only 24 (49%) reported satisfaction with their prostheses. In total, 42 oral lesions were identified, mainly angular cheilitis (8), inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia (7), irritation fibroma (7), frictional hyperkeratosis (7), prosthetic stomatitis (5), actinic cheilitis (3), traumatic ulcers (3), and leukoplakia (2). Educational sessions also targeted caregivers, offering practical guidance for improving hygiene practices. The results underscore the need for better oral care and improved access to dental services for institutionalized elderly populations. Academic extension activities play a valuable role in health promotion and in training future professionals in elderly care. Full article

Background/Objectives: Miscarriage is a common pregnancy complication that significantly impacts individuals’ health due to its physical and psychological effects. This study aimed to investigate the association between periodontal health and hematological parameters in women who experienced miscarriage before the 20th week of gestation, and to assess the potential predictive value of these parameters for miscarriage risk by comparing them with those of women with an uncomplicated pregnancy course. Methods: This study was a prospective case–control and cross-sectional study. It included a total of 82 participants, comprising 41 women with miscarriage and 41 healthy pregnant controls. The periodontal examinations included measurements of the Gingival Index (GI), Plaque Index (PI), Probing Depth (PD), Clinical Attachment Loss (CAL), and Simplified Calculus Index (SCI). Additionally, complete blood counts (CBCs) were obtained from all participants. Appropriate statistical analyses, including non-parametric, correlation, logistic regression, and ROC analyses, were conducted, with the significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: The primary outcome measure was CAL as an indicator of periodontal disease severity and its association with miscarriage risk. Additional outcomes included Plateletcrit (PCT), the Platelet Count (PLT), and the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) to evaluate systemic inflammatory responses and their correlations with periodontal parameters. CAL was significantly elevated in the miscarriage group (p < 0.001) and emerged as the strongest predictor of miscarriage risk (OR = 0.0537, p < 0.001, AUC = 0.8691). PCT was significantly higher in the miscarriage group (p = 0.017) and positively correlated with the GI (p = 0.041), suggesting a link between systemic inflammation and periodontal health. Conclusions: Considering this study’s limitations, CAL was the strongest predictor of miscarriage, while PLT and PCT had some discriminative power. Collaboration between obstetricians and dentists can facilitate early diagnosis and intervention by promoting routine oral health check-ups before and during pregnancy. Additionally, integrating oral health assessments into prenatal care and developing public health policies could enhance access to dental services during both preconception and pregnancy periods. Full article

Flourishing in children is an indicator of positive development in the areas of emotional, social, and cognitive development. Using a recent dataset from the US National Survey of Children’s Health, this study investigates the association between access to a quality healthcare system and flourishing indicators in school-aged children with autism. The outcome variable describes the proportion of children aged 6–17 with autism meeting the flourishing criteria, which include measures related to learning, resilience, and self-regulation. The main independent variable includes six core indicators for school-aged children and adolescents, which assess whether the family feels like a partner in their child’s care, the child has a medical home, receives regular medical and dental preventive care, has adequate insurance, has no unmet needs or barriers to accessing services, and has prepared for transition to adult healthcare. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the relationships between various independent variables and the outcome of interest. The results show that children with autism who receive comprehensive and coordinated care are more likely to flourish compared to those without such care for five of these six indicators, while controlling for sex, race, parental education, household income, self-reported autism severity, general health status, and the number of adverse childhood experiences. Children with autism are more likely to flourish when their families and healthcare providers work together effectively. Addressing gaps in the quality care system is essential for developing holistic approaches that empower children with autism to thrive and reach their full potential. Supportive health policies and effective coordination between families and healthcare providers are crucial for fostering the flourishing of children with autism, ensuring comprehensive, individualized, and continuous care. Full article

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition in children that typically involves challenges in cognition, behavior, and communication. While many children with ASD exhibit significant impairments in both verbal and non-verbal communication, the severity and nature of these difficulties can vary widely. In addition to its impact on overall health, ASD also affects oral health, leading to increased vulnerability to dental disease. Aim: This narrative review aims to summarize key oral health challenges and care strategies for children with ASD, focusing on clinical risks, behavioral barriers, caregiver roles, and effective interventions. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using four databases—PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar—as well as relevant study registries where applicable. Peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2010 and 2024 were identified using keywords and their synonyms, such as autism spectrum disorder, children, oral care, dental practitioners, and parents. Studies were included based on relevance to oral health challenges and interventions in children diagnosed with ASD. Results: Children with ASD experience a range of sensory sensitivities, attention deficits, hyperactivity, and behavioral resistance, which significantly hinder the performance of adequate oral hygiene practices. These challenges contribute to a lack of effective dental prophylaxis and limited access to regular preventive care, ultimately resulting in poorer oral health outcomes and reduced oral health-related quality of life. Conclusion: Due to the multifaceted characteristics of ASD, children with this condition face significant barriers in accessing appropriate and individualized oral care. This increases their risks of developing oral health disorders, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts between caregivers and dental professionals to improve oral health outcomes in this vulnerable population. Full article

(1) Background: Advancements in dental imaging technologies have significantly transformed diagnostic and surgical practices. The integration of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) is enhancing clinical precision, streamlining workflows, and redefining dental education. This review examines the evolution, applications, and future potential of these technologies in modern dental practice. (2) Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted, synthesizing findings from recent studies on digital radiography, CBCT, AI-assisted diagnostics, 3D imaging, and involving simulation tools (AR/VR). Peer-reviewed journal articles, systematic reviews, and clinical studies were analyzed to explore their impact on diagnosis, treatment planning, surgical execution, and training. (3) Results: Digital and 3D imaging modalities have improved diagnostic accuracy and reduced radiation exposure. AI applications enhance image interpretation, automate clinical tasks, and support treatment simulations. AR and VR technologies provide involved, competency-based surgical training and real-time intraoperative guidance. Integrating 3D printing and portable imaging expands accessibility and personalization in care delivery. (4) Conclusions: The integration of CBCT, AI, AR, and VR represents a paradigm shift in dentistry, elevating precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes. Continued research, standardization, and ethical practice will be essential for widespread adoption and maximizing clinical benefits. Full article

This case study presents the long-term management of a 14-year-old male diagnosed with 18q deletion syndrome, also known as de Grouchy Syndrome, highlighting the challenges of treating rare chromosomal disorders in rural Romania. Background and Clinical Significance: 18q deletion syndrome, also known as de Grouchy syndrome, is a chromosomal disorder caused by the deletion of a part of the long arm of chromosome 18. This syndrome is seen in one out of 10,000 live births. The main features of the syndrome are short stature, hearing loss, hypotonia, mental retardation, endocrine disorders, and autoimmunity. Case Presentation: The patient’s condition was initially suspected at birth due to abnormal features and was later confirmed through genetic testing, revealing a 46,XY,del(18) karyotype. Key clinical features include craniofacial dysmorphism, delayed growth, congenital cardiac anomalies, developmental delay, severe neurological impairment, and multiple comorbidities such as endocrine dysfunction, dental anomalies, and orthopedic deformities. Despite early interventions such as cardiac surgery, the patient’s management has been challenged by limited access to specialized care. Conclusions: The case underscores the importance of timely genetic testing, early multidisciplinary care, and the role of family support in managing complex disorders. This report also addresses the gaps in healthcare accessibility in rural settings and emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure and genetic services. By comparing this case with the existing literature, the study explores the variability in clinical presentations of 18q deletion syndrome and advocates for more precise genetic testing to better understand its phenotypic spectrum. The patient’s ongoing challenges with medical and socio-economic factors emphasize the critical need for coordinated care and family support in managing rare genetic conditions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Oral health and diabetes are closely linked through shared inflammatory, behavioral, and socioeconomic factors. This study examined the determinants of oral health outcomes and oral-health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in Romanian diabetic patients using Andersen’s Behavioral Model. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in early 2025 among 79 diabetic patients at a public clinic in Western Romania. Data were collected through questionnaires, clinical oral exams, and the OHIP-14 instrument. Variables were analyzed using Andersen’s Behavioral Model and standard statistical tests, including regression and correlation analyses. Results: Participants had a mean age of 61.2 years; 86.1% had type 2 diabetes and 13.9% type 1. Over 49% reported gingival bleeding, and 38% experienced dental sensitivity. Regression analysis identified limited awareness (OR = 2.21, p = 0.033) and low income (OR = 1.89, p = 0.041) as significant predictors of periodontal symptoms. OHIP-14 scores were weakly correlated with glycemic control (r = 0.17) and dental sensitivity (r = 0.16) but not with objective periodontal parameters. Rural residence, lower education levels, and poor awareness were associated with reduced service utilization and poorer perceived oral health. Conclusions: This study highlights the impact of behavioral, clinical, and socioeconomic factors on oral condition and OHRQoL. Oral health should be integrated into chronic disease care, with prevention-focused strategies aimed at improving access and reducing disparities, especially in older and rural populations. Full article

Background/Objectives: Children with Down syndrome are predisposed to various oro-dental conditions, which can impact their oral-health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and overall well-being. Given their critical role, parents’ and caregivers’ perceptions are essential for understanding the challenges in oral care access and quality. This narrative review aimed to synthesise the available evidence on parental and caregiver perceptions regarding oral health, OHRQoL, and dental care access for children with Down syndrome. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, covering studies published between January 2015 and January 2025. The search included the keywords “Down syndrome”, “oral health”, “oral health-related quality of life”, “caregivers”, “parents”, “dental care access”, and “special needs children”. Thirteen studies were included after applying eligibility criteria, which selected original research focusing on the target population and themes. Results: The findings highlighted that oral health significantly affects the quality of life of children with Down syndrome, influencing their functional, emotional, and social well-being. Caregivers often reported a gap between perceived and clinically observed oral health. Barriers to dental care access included insufficient training of dental professionals, financial constraints, systemic limitations, and perceived biases. Variations across different countries also revealed the influence of cultural and healthcare system factors. Conclusions: Oral health plays a critical role in the lives of children with Down syndrome and their families. Strengthening caregiver education, improving communication, validating adapted OHRQoL instruments, and enhancing dental professionals’ training in special needs care are crucial steps to ensure equitable and family-centred oral healthcare. Full article

Aim: This study aimed to determine the oral health profile of children with autism spectrum disorder and to analyze the impact of their oral health status on their personal quality of life and the quality of life of their families. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional online study was conducted on 121 parents. A self-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, parents’ perceptions of their child’s oral health, oral hygiene practices, and access to dental care. Additionally, the Parental–Caregiver Perceptions Questionnaire (P-CPQ-16, 16 items) and the Family Impact Scale (FIS-8, 8 items) were employed. The data were analyzed descriptively and using the Mann–Whitney U test and the Kruskal–Wallis H test. Results: No significant differences were found in FIS-8 and P-CPQ-16 scores between parents and children based on their sociodemographic characteristics. However, a significant association was observed between P-CPQ-16 and FIS-8 total scores and the type of used dental care (general dental practice vs. adapted practice and general anesthesia, p ≤ 0.001), dental visit frequency (regular vs. occasional, p < 0.05), child cooperation level during dental visits (cooperative vs. uncooperative, p ≤ 0.001), and dental care access challenges (p < 0.05). Parents reported a high prevalence of poor oral health in their children: the experience of tooth decay (48.1%), malocclusion (47.1%), bruxism (38.8%), bad breath (34.7%), and toothache (28.8%) in the previous 12 months. Most children brushed their teeth daily (89.3%), often with the help of their parents (44.6%). The most frequently reported difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene was the children’s unwillingness to cooperate (62.8%). Conclusions: Poor perceived oral health in children with autism spectrum disorder is significantly linked to a lower quality of life for both them and their families, especially when access to dental care is difficult and there is a lack of cooperation. Addressing these barriers and the high prevalence of oral health problems through tailored strategies is critical to improving children’s well-being. Full article