Aim: The study aimed to compare the design of reduced extended denture bases (RIOD) with that of fully extended denture bases for implant overdentures (FIODs).
Materials and methods: A within-subject study design was carried out, involving 20 completely edentulous participants aged from 50 to 70 years who received newly constructed complete dentures. Four parallel implants were installed in the interforaminal region according to a guided surgical and delayed loading protocol. Each participant was provided with an implant overdenture (IOD) retained by a bar attachment and two different overdenture designs: Firstly, an FIOD, then an RIOD. Each participant wore each type of overdenture for a period of 3 months prior to evaluation. The following outcome measures were evaluated: Patient satisfaction, oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), and chewing efficiency. Comparison of outcome scores between the two occasions was done using paired sample t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: The RIOD design exhibited significantly higher scores in certain domains of patient satisfaction, such as comfort, function, and overall satisfaction compared to the FIOD design. However, the OHRQoL scores were significantly lower (a higher quality of life) for the RIOD design in all domains, including functional limitation, physical pain, psychological discomfort, physical disability, psychological disability, social disability, and handicap. Additionally, the RIOD design exhibited significantly higher chewing efficiency compared to the FIOD design (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: The RIOD design may be a more favorable option in cases where mandibular implant-supported overdentures are indicated, providing a better balance of comfort and function compared to FIOD.
Clinical significance: Clinicians should carefully consider the advantages of reduced extensions when designing mandibular implant-supported overdentures, as this may be a more beneficial choice for patients in terms of improving their overall experience and functional performance. How to cite this article: Ibrahim AM, Alokda MM, Elgamal M. Patient Satisfaction, Oral Health-related Quality of Life, and Masticatory Efficiency of Bar-retained Implant-supported Mandibular Overdentures with Reduced Denture Base Extensions. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(10):988-995.
Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the root and canal anatomy of mandibular (MAND) second premolars in a southern Saudi population using high-resolution cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging and the recent coding system.
Materials and methods: A total of 856 MAND second premolars from 614 CBCT scans were retrospectively analyzed. These scans were evaluated in axial, coronal, and sagittal planes. Then, the MAND second premolars were classified according to root number and canal configuration using the coding system developed by Ahmed and Dummer. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess associations among canal anatomy, gender, and age. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The majority of MAND second premolars exhibited the single-root with a single canal (1TN1) configuration, which was observed in 834 (97.43%) of the sample. Moreover, most teeth (847, 98.95%) had a single root, and two-rooted (8, 0.93%) and three-rooted (1, 0.12%) cases were rare. No statistically significant differences were found between males and females or among different age-groups (p > 0.05), although the 30-40 age-group exhibited the largest anatomical variation.
Conclusion: The present CBCT-based study concluded that the 1TN1 canal configuration is the most prevalent in MAND second premolars. While the most predominant is a single root with a single canal, the study also confirms the existence of complex anatomical variations. Gender and age-group did not have a statistically significant impact on root canal anatomy.
Clinical significance: Accurate knowledge of MAND second premolar morphology is essential for successful endodontics. Population-specific data and CBCT with a recent coding system enhance diagnosis and support better clinical outcomes. How to cite this article: Alelyani AA. Root Canal Morphology of Mandibular Second Premolars in a Saudi Population: Cone-beam Computed Tomography Analysis with a Recent Coding System. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(10):970-976.
Aim: The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of kinesio taping (KT) in reducing postoperative pain, swelling, and improving mouth opening following the surgical removal of mandibular third molars.
Materials and methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 66 participants split into two groups of 33 each undergoing surgical removal of a third molar. Preoperative mean mouth opening and swelling scores were recorded for all patients prior to surgery. Postoperatively, the study group received KT, while the control group did not. Both groups were assessed for postsurgical pain, swelling, and mouth opening for 1 week. Data were recorded and statistically analyzed.
Results: On postoperative day 2 and day 7, the study group's mean pain scores were 4.82 ± 7.2 and 1.56 ± 0.50, respectively, while the control group's scores were 7.32 ± 0.81 and 2.21 ± 0.69. Mean swelling scores for the study group were 129.51 ± 6.61 and 126.09 ± 6.65, compared to 142.91 ± 8.64 and 134.99 ± 8.16 in the control group. The interincisal opening was 36.94 ± 8.15 and 40.88 ± 7.31 in the study group, and 26.12 ± 4.22 and 36.59 ± 5.47 in the control group. All outcomes showed statistical significance with p < 0.05.
Conclusion: Kinesio taping is effective in reducing postsurgical symptoms, including pain, facial swelling, and limited mouth opening.
Clinical significance: This study highlights the need for nonpharmacological interventions to minimize postoperative morbidity following the surgical removal of mandibular third molars. Kinesio taping shows promise as a practical and effective method to improve patient recovery. How to cite this article: Jaiswal S, Neeli A. Effect of Kinesio Taping in Reducing Pain, Swelling and Trismus after Surgical Removal of Third Molar: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(10):1006-1010.
Aims: To assess the effect of dental application of oral probiotics containing Streptococcus salivarius K12 and Lactobacillus brevis CD2 on preventing secondary bacterial pneumonia in patients with severe COVID-19.
Materials and methods: In this randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 60 patients with severe COVID-19 were randomly assigned to receive a 7-day course of oral gel containing S. salivarius K12 (2 billion colony-forming units) and L. brevis CD2 (4 billion colony-forming units) every 8 hours, or placebo, starting on the first intensive care unit (ICU) day. Gel applications were performed by a dentist. The primary outcome was bacterial pneumonia, whereas the secondary outcomes were survival and the 14-day illness-severity status.
Results: Fifty patients completed the 7-day experiment. In which, 26 patients received probiotics (mean age: 58.7 years old, 81% men) and 24 patients received a placebo (60.5 years old, 71% men). The incidence of secondary bacterial pneumonia was 35% for probiotics and 54% for placebo [relative risk: 0.64 (95% CI: 0.34-1.22)]. Compared with placebo, patients treated with probiotics showed similar rates of ICU death [hazard ratio: 1.37 (95% CI: 0.56-3.35)]. The 14-day illness-severity status did not differ between groups.
Conclusion: In this phase II trial of patients with severe COVID-19, oral probiotics containing S. salivarius K12 and L. brevis CD2 did not prevent secondary bacterial pneumonia.
Clinical significance: Intensive care unit patients with COVID-19 are prone to secondary bacterial pneumonia. Probiotics against oral pathogens might prevent lung colonization and avoid pneumonia. How to cite this article: Lauxen JR, Callegari-Jacques SM, Mombelli AS, et al. Oral Probiotic Containing Streptococcus salivarius K12 and Lactobacillus brevis CD2 for Preventing Bacterial Pneumonia in Severe COVID-19: Randomized Clinical Trial. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(10):931-937.
Aim: The presence of microbial contaminants in the dental unit waterline poses a potential risk for both patients and healthcare personnel. This study aimed to conduct a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the microflora in the dental unit waterline of dental clinics in Mangaluru city.
Methods: Water samples were collected from a total of 16 private dental clinics across Mangaluru. For the quantitative assessment, bacterial counts were determined using standard culture media, and the automated identification of the isolated bacterial species was done for qualitative assessment. Following the standards proposed by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Dental Association (ADA), grading was done as a bacterial count below 500 CFU/mL was classified as unsatisfactory. The data was recorded, and statistical analysis was performed on the same.
Results: The bacterial counts were found to range between 37 CFU/mL and 690 CFU/mL. The majority of isolated microorganisms included Bacillus species, Pseudomonas species, and non-fermenting Gram-negative bacilli. Although most tested samples had bacterial counts within acceptable limits, the various isolated bacterial species emphasized their ability to cause potential health hazards even at lower concentrations.
Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that there were no major microbial contaminants in the dental unit waterline of dental clinics in Mangaluru. However, the presence of varied microorganisms, even though in low concentrations, raises the threat of potential contamination.
Clinical significance: This study indicates that the presence of fewer, yet varied concentrations of microbes can still pose the threat of contamination, and hence it underscores the need for regular supervision and disinfection of the dental unit waterlines in routine clinical practice. How to cite this article: Mense U, Shetty MK, Shetty K, et al. Qualitative and Quantitative Evaluation of the Microflora in Dental Unit Waterline of Dental Clinics in Mangaluru: A Cross-sectional Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(10):1001-1005.
Aim: The current investigation aimed to assess the impact of dietary factors on the shear bond strength and color stability of three different bonding materials on orthodontic brackets.
Materials and methods: Ninety human single-root premolars that were extracted due to orthodontic treatment reasons were utilized in the present investigation. Based on the various bonding agents used, all 90 samples were randomly divided into three distinct groups with 30 samples in each group: Group I: Brackets bonded with Transbond XT, group II: Brackets bonded with Proseal sealant, group III: Brackets bonded with RelyXTM Unicem. Baseline data were recorded, and for 15 days, the 15 samples from every group were immersed in Coca-Cola and coffee for 15 minutes, three times a day, with 2-hour breaks in between, respectively. They were maintained in artificial saliva at other times. A spectrophotometer was used to assess the color stability of bonding materials in compliance with the International Commission on Illumination (CIELAB) protocol. Shear bond strength was measured using a universal testing machine. Data was recorded and statistically analyzed.
Results: After being immersed in Coca-Cola, the least color change was found in group I (1.98 ± 0.06 to 3.14 ± 0.01), followed by group II (1.84 ± 0.10 to 8.28 ± 0.12) and group III (1.92 ± 0.04 to 9.06 ± 0.08). After being immersed in coffee, the least color changes were found in group I (1.98 ± 0.06 to 4.28 ± 0.02), followed by group II (1.84 ± 0.10 to 9.44 ± 0.06) and group III (1.92 ± 0.04 to 9.96 ± 0.14). The maximum shear bond strength after immersion in Coca-Cola was found in group I (13.38 ± 0.16), followed by group II (11.20 ± 0.24) and group III (10.92 ± 0.20) and after immersion in coffee was in group I (14.02 ± 0.10) followed by group II (12.48 ± 0.04) and group III (11.88 ± 0.02).
Conclusion: The current investigation concluded that the Transbond XT group showed superior shear bond strength and good color stability compared to the Proseal sealant group and RelyXTM Unicem group.
Clinical significance: Considering bonded brackets are frequently used in fixed orthodontic therapy, it is crucial to establish an adequate amount of contact between the bracket and the enamel surface. By identifying color stability and bond strength in different coloring solutions and bonding materials used for braces, this study can help patients and clinicians get better treatment outcomes. How to cite this article: Parida P, Sreedharan S, Sam G, et al. Influence of Dietary Components on Color Stability and Shear Bond Strength of Different Bonding Agents on Orthodontic Brackets. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(10):950-953.
Aim: This study aims to determine the morphological variations of mandibular lingual foramina (LF) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the Salvadoran population.
Materials and methods: We collected data from 300 CBCT scans to examine medial lingual foramina (MLF) and lateral lingual foramina (LLF). The study included 151 women and 149 men over the age of 18 years with intact dentition, and the scans were performed using the Orthophos SL 3D system. Two trained observers made all the measurements. The data were analyzed using the analysis of variance (ANOVA), Tukey's test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and the Mann-Whitney U tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.
Results: In total, the authors identified 1,195 LF in the evaluated CBCT scans, comprising 699 MLF and 496 LLF, with a higher prevalence observed in men. A significant difference was found regarding the higher presence of MLFs in the 18-44 age-group (p = 0.013). The diameters of MLFs were measured at 0.63 ± 0.21 mm in women and 0.64 ± 0.17 mm in men (p = 0.298). The lengths were 8.78 ± 1.44 mm in women and 9.66 ± 3.51 mm in men (p = 0.002). No significant differences were noted based on their age-group. Additionally, a larger diameter of MLFs was associated with a lower number of foramina (p < 0.001), and this relationship was similarly observed with length (p = 0.01). The largest MLF diameters were noted in the supraspinous and interspinous positions (p = 0.001), while the most extended lengths were found in the interspinous and infraspinous positions (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: This study highlights the practical implications of understanding the morphological variations in LF. The authors found that all participants had MLFs, with men aged 18-44 years exhibiting fewer foramina. This knowledge is crucial for dental professionals as it can help them to anticipate and manage the potential higher risk during surgical interventions for this demographic due to the potential for larger diameters and lengths located in more superior positions along the bone rim.
Clinical significance: Dentists should understand that the morphological variations of MLF can differ significantly within a given population. Additionally, there is a lack of research in Central America, which restricts clinicians and radiologists from accessing crucial information. This knowledge gap may hinder their ability to recognize these variations, potentially leading to complications that could jeopardize dental treatments and patient health. How to cite this article: Guevara-Ayala SJ, Pinel-Ordoñez BE, Llaguno-Rubio JM, et al. Morphological Variations, Number, and Position of Lingual Foramina Using Cone-beam Computed Tomography: A Cross-sectional Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(10):996-1000.
Introduction: Orthodontic treatment with fixed braces promotes plaque accumulation, leading to increased microbial count and deterioration of periodontal status. Volatile sulfur-producing organisms also increase, contributing to halitosis. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of oil pulling, regular brushing, normal saline mouthrinse, and chlorhexidine (CHX) in treating halitosis and its impact on pathogenic microorganisms in orthodontic patients.
Materials and methods: Forty patients aged 14-20 years were randomly divided into four groups: CHX, oil pulling, normal saline, and regular brushing. Halitosis and oral hygiene were evaluated using five parameters: anaerobic bacteria count in culture, organoleptic technique, breath analyzer, gingival index (GI), and plaque index (PI). Data were gathered at baseline, 10, and 20 days after the initiation of treatment. The ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for the statistical analysis, with p < 0.05 serving as the significance level.
Results: Both GI and PI showed statistically significant improvement in CHX and oil pulling groups at the end of the intervention, with p < 0.05. The organoleptic and breath analyzer scores demonstrated significant differences across all groups between the intervention periods. The CHX group showed a significant reduction in anaerobic bacterial count at 10 days, but at 20 days, oil pulling was more effective in reducing anaerobic bacterial count.
Conclusion: Oil pulling and regular saline can be used as viable substitutes for CHX in order to improve oral hygiene and lessen halitosis in individuals receiving fixed orthodontic treatment. How to cite this article: Narayanan A, Gnanasambandam V, Anbarasu P, et al. Halitosis Reduction and Oral Hygiene Improvement: A Study of Chlorhexidine, Oil Pulling, and Saline in Orthodontic Patients with Braces. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(10):983-987.
Aim: This research sought to compare and correlate the salivary thiocyanate (SCN) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels of smokers with those of non-smokers in periodontitis patients.
Materials and methods: Forty systemically healthy male patients were recruited and assigned into four groups of 10 patients each. Group I composed of periodontally sound non-smokers with probing pocket depth (PPD) not more than 3 mm and absence of clinical attachment loss (CAL) represented the control group, group II incorporated smokers with the same periodontal criteria as mentioned for group I, group III consists of non-smokers with PPD and CAL of more than 3 mm (moderate to severe chronic periodontitis) with bleeding on probing, and smokers with the same periodontal criteria as mentioned for group III formed group IV. Unstimulated pooled saliva was collected and stored at -20°C for assessment of the levels of thiocyanate and LDH using a UV spectrophotometer. All the data were analyzed by SYSTAT 12 statistical software system.
Results: According to the findings, smokers with and without periodontitis (group II and group IV) had significantly higher levels of SCN and LDH when compared to non-smokers with chronic periodontitis (group III) and healthy controls (group I), with a p-value of 0.001. It was shown that there was a statistically significant positive connection (r = 0.683) between smoking and the levels of thiocyanate and LDH in the saliva (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Cigarette smoking increases levels of SCN and LDH enzyme activity, leading to further progression of periodontitis.
Clinical significance: Saliva, an easily collected and noninvasive sample, contains valuable markers, like SCN and LDH, of periodontal disease derived from systemic and local sources. In this study, the salivary biomarkers were assessed using upfront biochemical techniques that are widely used in various scientific fields because of their versatility, quantitative capabilities, speed, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. How to cite this article: Seshadri PR, Syed NK, Ahmed MM, et al. Quantitative Assessment of Levels of Salivary Thiocyanate and Lactate Dehydrogenase Enzyme Activity in Smokers with Periodontitis. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(10):954-958.

