International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry最新文献

Aim and background: Indirect pulp capping (IPC) provides an approach to protect functional primary teeth up until their natural exfoliation occurs. The material used for capping must possess three essential characteristics, including biocompatibility, good sealing ability against bacteria, and support for pulp natural healing functions. The aim of this research investigation entails assessing the performance of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) putty and bioceramic putty as IPC materials within deciduous molars.

Design: The research involved 82 children from age 4 to 9 years. Teeth with carious lesions that needed IPC were divided into two different groups based on capping material, where group I contained MTA putty and group II held bioceramic putty. The evaluation of both clinical and radiological success was performed at each time point using Rajashekharan criteria on teeth that underwent IPC. The examination included checking for dentinal bridge formation. Statistical evaluation of all collected data used the McNemar Chi-squared test combined with the Pearson Chi-squared test and the independent t-test.

Results: The intergroup analysis was performed using the Pearson Chi-squared test. No failures occurred in either group based on radiological or clinical examinations at both 3 and 6 months of follow-up. At 9-month follow-up, the success rate was 100% in group I and 95.1% in group II. The difference was statistically nonsignificant. The proportion of patients who demonstrated increased dentinal bridge at the 9-month follow-up reached 97.6% in group I and amounted to 68.3% in group II, showing a statistically meaningful gap between the groups (p-value = 0.002).

Conclusion: MTA putty and bioceramic putty have proven their effectiveness for obtaining positive clinical and radiological results according to this investigation. The collected data demonstrate that bioceramic materials are effective in dentistry and provide essential information for deciding clinical pulp therapy approaches.

How to cite this article: Garg P, Sheoran N, Saraf BG, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate and Bioceramic Putty for Indirect Pulp Capping in Primary Molars: An In Vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2026;19(1):40-46.

Aim and background: In Spain, a new digital workflow protocol has been developed for patients with cleft lip and palate. This protocol involves several steps, including the creation of a double aligner tray for nasoalveolar molding (2A-NAM) and the utilization of digital intraoral scans for the movement design. The sequential process includes: intraoral scanning (IOS), virtual design (VD), digital impression (DI), 2A-NAM preparation, and analysis of anatomical changes. This process is repeated until the desired outcomes are achieved.

Case description: At just 7 days of age, records of the male child were obtained using an iTero® Element 5D intraoral laser scanner. Additionally, an extraoral record was taken to measure the distance from the commissure to the left nostril, which enables the reconstruction of the nasal stent of the tray. The resulting stereolithography (STL) files underwent digital planification using 3D NemoStudio. The degree of approximation, rotation, and inclination of major and minor segments varied for each (M) based on each individual record and the patient's specific condition. Finally, the Form 3+® 3D-printer was used to produce the VD using Formlabs® photopolymer resin. The technician then assembled the device using a Durasoft® PD splint (both hard and soft components), to which tension springs were added using wire and secured with resin. A total of five 2A-NAMs were required to achieve proper segment approximation prior to orthopedic surgery at 4.5 months of age.

Conclusion: By assessing the anatomical predictions provided by digital simulation, clinicians can make proper decisions regarding the approximation of the maxillary segments of the patient.

Clinical significance: The predictability of planned approximation movements and the absence of aligner injuries motivate the promotion of the protocol as a reliable method that facilitates pediatric dentistry and orthodontic treatment for any professional, ensuring patient safety.

How to cite this article: Rico-Lillo I, García-García VJ, Kasem K, et al. Doble Aligner Nasoalveolar Molding: A New Approach of Digital Protocol for Cleft Lip and Palate in Newborn Patients. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2026;19(1):110-119.

Background: Human dental pulp cells (HDPCs) are the primary cellular components of the pulp tissue and play a crucial role in its regenerative potential. In the context of vital pulp therapy (VPT), naturally derived herbal compounds have emerged as potential alternatives to conventional direct pulp capping agents due to their biocompatibility and bioactivity. Baicalein, a flavonoid derived from Scutellaria baicalensis, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has demonstrated anticancer, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its effects on odontogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) remain unclear.

Aim: To evaluate the effect of baicalein on the odontogenic differentiation of DPSCs.

Materials and methods: Baicalein was prepared in varying concentrations from a commercially available source. DPSCs were isolated using the explant culture method and characterized through flow cytometry for mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) markers: CD73, CD90 (positive), and CD34, CD45, and HLA-DR (negative). Cytotoxicity was assessed using the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Odontogenic differentiation and mineralization were evaluated by measuring alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineral deposition using 2% Alizarin Red S staining.

Results: Mesenchymal stem cells from explant culture were free of hematopoietic lineage. MTT assay showed no cytotoxicity at 1-50 µg/mL. Compared to control, 10 and 15 µg/mL baicalein increased cell proliferation, though higher concentrations reduced it. At 10 µg baicalein, ALP activity (p < 0.05) and mineral matrix deposition significantly increased, as indicated by darker Alizarin Red S staining. Destaining confirmed higher calcium content in the 10 µg group compared to the control.

Conclusion: Baicalein promotes odontogenic differentiation and mineralization of DPSCs at optimal concentrations, highlighting its potential as a novel bioactive agent in direct pulp capping procedures.

How to cite this article: Patil S, Pawar M, Kharat A, et al. Effect of Baicalein on Odontogenic Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2026;19(1):92-99.

Background: The "BioFlx" crowns are a new generation of crowns. They have been marketed as flexible, long-lasting, self-adapting, and life-like preformed pediatric full-coverage restorations for primary teeth that offer the flexibility and snug fit of the preformed metal crowns, and the esthetics of preformed zirconia crowns. The clinical data in the literature for this crown are still nascent and evolving.

Aim: The present study evaluated the clinical performance of the BioFlx crown.

Materials and methods: Fifty BioFlx crowns were cemented in children who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The crowns were evaluated immediately before cementation and at 6 months using the modified United States Public Health Service Ryge (USPHSR) scale.

Results: Descriptive statistics for each parameter in the study group were used for statistical purposes. The total number of crowns cemented, 50 (100%), compared to the number of dislodged crowns, 16 (32%), at 6 months in the "retention after cementation" parameter, were subjected to the Chi-square test. It revealed a p-value of 0.58, which was statistically insignificant.

Conclusion: The BioFlx crowns showed positive results concerning resistance to dislodgement before cementation, parental acceptance of esthetics, staining, gingival health, plaque retention, and occlusal wear. The results with respect to retention, though not statistically significant, require long-term clinical follow-up.

Clinical significance: This study addresses a significant gap in the clinical data regarding BioFlx crowns, a novel dental restoration material in pediatric dentistry. Marketed for their flexibility, durability, self-adaptability, and esthetic appeal, BioFlx crowns offer a comparative option to traditional preformed metal and zirconia crowns.

How to cite this article: Rao A, Mahabala KY, Tiwari S, et al. Clinical Evaluation of BioFlx Crowns for the Restoration of Primary Teeth. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2026;19(1):19-23.

Background: Ocimum basilicum, commonly known as sweet basil, has been found to possess remineralization potential on enamel caries and antibacterial activity, making it suitable for formulation as a dental varnish for caries prevention.

Aim: To evaluate the anticariogenic efficacy of O. basilicum varnish among 6-8-year-old school children.

Materials and methods: A double-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted in a government primary school in Belagavi district, Karnataka. Forty children were randomly assigned to either the O. basilicum varnish group or the fluoride varnish group. Varnish application was carried out at baseline, after 1 month, and after 3 months. International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) 1 score, number of initial carious lesions, and plaque Streptococcus mutans count were assessed at baseline and at the end of 4 months. Unpaired t-test and paired t-test were used to compare the differences within and between the groups, respectively. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: An intragroup comparison revealed statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) within the groups in ICDAS 1 score, the number of initial carious lesions, and plaque S. mutans count. The fluoride varnish group demonstrated better reduction of ICDAS 1 score (p = 0.034) and number of initial carious lesions (p = 0.006). However, O. basilicum varnish showed more reduction of plaque S. mutans count (p < 0.001) than the fluoride varnish group.

Conclusion: Ocimum basilicum varnish possesses remineralization potential and better antibacterial activity against S. mutans. Henceforth, it can be used as an alternative to commercially available fluoride varnish.

Clinical significance: The dental varnish formulated from O. basilicum has proven to have anticariogenic potential with fewer adverse effects, endorsing its incorporation in clinical practice for the prevention of dental caries.

How to cite this article: Shankkari S, Ankola AV, Sankeshwari RM, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Anticariogenic Efficacy of Ocimum basilicum Varnish and Fluoride Varnish among 6-8-year-old School Children: A Double-blind Randomized Controlled Trial. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2026;19(1):55-60.

Aims and background: Early behavioral changes in childhood can signal developmental challenges and complicate oral healthcare. Parents are key to early detection, yet their awareness is often limited. This study aimed to assess parents' knowledge, awareness, and perceptions of early behavioral changes, explore their understanding of oral health impacts, and identify gaps and barriers to timely intervention.

Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among parents visiting the pediatric dental department. The survey assessed awareness of early behavioral changes, perceived causes, and links to oral health. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results: A total of 700 parents participated, with many unaware of the signs and symptoms of early behavioral changes. While 65.71% agreed that early detection could improve dental care, only 32.43% acknowledged a direct behavior-oral health link. Key barriers included difficulty distinguishing normal from abnormal behavior, reliance on nonprofessional sources, limited access to guidance, and normalization of certain behaviors, all of which may delay timely intervention.

Conclusion: Parental awareness of early behavioral signs and symptoms remains limited. Addressing knowledge gaps and barriers through targeted education and accessible professional guidance is essential. Early recognition can improve both developmental outcomes and dental care experiences.

Clinical significance: This study highlights that many parents lack awareness of the early signs and symptoms of behavioral changes in children. By acknowledging this gap, targeted awareness programs can be developed to equip parents with the knowledge needed for timely recognition and intervention. Such efforts can enhance developmental outcomes, improve cooperation during dental visits, and ultimately lead to better oral health management in children with behavioral challenges.

How to cite this article: Gupta N, Shastri S, Kaul S, et al. When Behavior Speaks-Are Parents Listening?: A Questionnaire Study on How Parents Perceive Early Behavioral Changes among Children in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2026;19(1):85-91.

This narrative review examines the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) across three major learning paradigms-supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning (RL). The former has shown remarkable accuracy in diagnosing dental diseases, such as caries, periodontal conditions, and oral cancers; the second uses unsupervised learning techniques, such as clustering and association rule mining, to uncover hidden patterns in patient data, improving preventive care and resource allocation; and the latter uses RL techniques, such as Q-learning, deep Q-networks (DQNs), and actor-critic models, to support adaptive and personalized treatment strategies by continuously optimizing decisions based on patient feedback. From AI-driven imaging tools to algorithms encouraging oral self-care behaviors and other dental treatments, this review highlights significant developments and real-world applications. To overcome the obstacles and realize the full potential of AI and ML in dentistry, future studies and interdisciplinary cooperation will be crucial. By adopting these technologies, the dental industry can transform the delivery of oral health care and move toward a more patient-centered, data-driven, and efficient model of treatment.

How to cite this article: Sharma A, Agarwal N. Advancements in Dental Science through Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: A Comprehensive Review. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2026;19(1):120-126.

Introduction: Silver-modified atraumatic restorative therapy (SMART) is the silver diamine fluoride (SDF) treatment followed by glass ionomer cement (GIC) restoration to help arrest the progression of the caries without requiring local anesthesia and cavity preparation. There is no comparison in the literature regarding the microleakage and potential of secondary caries with the aforementioned approach. Also, recently, a new formulation of SDF, that is, SDF gel, is available in the market, which could be a better material due to its ease of application and control over area of application.

Materials and methods: This is an in vitro study that included 60 extracted human premolar teeth, divided into four groups of 15 each: group I-SDF solution (FAgamin), group II-SDF solution (e-SDF), group III-SDF gel (KEDO), and group IV-SDF + KI (KEDO). Class IV cavity preparation was done, after which SDF was applied and cavities were restored with resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC). Thermocycling, dye penetration, and sectioning were done, followed by evaluation under a stereomicroscope.

Result: Level of dye penetration at enamel and dentinal margins were measured and there was statistically significant difference in all the four groups at enamel and dentinal margins, with p-value < 0.00001 and < 0.00001, respectively.

Conclusion: Group III (SDF gel-KEDO) had least microleakage, followed by group I (FAgamin), group II (e-SDF), and group IV (SDF + KI).

How to cite this article: Solanke SH, Mistry LN, Jawdekar AM. Comparison of Microleakage of Different Silver Diamine Fluoride Formulations (Solutions and Gel) with Resin-modified Glass Ionomer Cement Restoration on Human Teeth by Dye Penetration Method Using Stereomicroscopy: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2026;19(1):67-72.

Background: Nano-silver fluoride (NSF) has emerged as a promising agent in enhancing the antibacterial and remineralizing properties of pit-and-fissure sealants. It improves the overall effectiveness and longevity of sealants in preventing dental caries.

Aim: To evaluate in vitro effects of NSF and silver diamine fluoride (SDF) pretreatment on the shear bond strength (SBS), marginal seal, and color stability of pit-and-fissure sealants compared to sealants applied directly on primary teeth.

Methods: A total of 108 freshly extracted primary teeth were randomly divided into three groups: Group I (n = 36) received NSF pretreatment before sealant application, group II (n = 36) received SDF pretreatment before sealant application, and group III (n = 36) was etched and sealed without pretreatment. The samples were assessed for SBS, microleakage, and color assessment, and subjected to statistical analysis.

Results: Shear bond strength was slightly higher for the NSF group. The intergroup comparison showed higher microleakage for group III. A significant color difference was seen between the three groups. The highest color change was seen in the SDF group.

Conclusion: Pretreatment with NSF prior to pit-and-fissure sealant application is more effective.

How to cite this article: Mareddy AR, Reddy VN, Done V, et al. Comparison of Nano-silver Fluoride and Silver Diamine Fluoride as Pretreatment Agents for Pit-and-fissure Sealants in Primary Teeth. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2026;19(1):13-18.