European Archives of Paediatric Dentistry最新文献

Aims: To quantitatively detect S. mutans, Bifidobacterium, and S. wiggsiae in occlusal biofilm from permanent first molars based on the Visible Occlusal Plaque Index (VOPI), and to analyse the association between their levels and the occlusal enamel caries occurrence following the diagnosis of the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS).

Study design: One hundred twenty plaque samples were collected from children aged 6-8 years and divided into four groups (n = 30 each group) according to VOPI scores (0 = no visible plaque, 1 = thin plaque, 2 = thick plaque, and 3 = heavy plaque). Scores 0 and 1 were identified by running dental probe on the groove. Scores 2 and 3 were visually identified. ICDAS scores were recorded by scoring 0-3 (0 = sound tooth surface, 1 = opacity or discoloration of enamel after air drying, 2 = visual change in enamel when wet, and 3 = localised enamel breakdown).

Methods: DNA was extracted from plaque samples and performed quantitative real-time PCR using SYBR green and specific primers for total bacteria including the 16S rRNA gene sequences conserved in all bacteria (BAC16S), S. mutans, Bifidobacterium, and S. wiggsiae.

Results: Ages of the children were different amongst VOPI groups (p < 0.001). Levels of total bacteria (p < 0.001) and S. mutans (p = 0.026) increased when VOPI increased. The ratio of S. mutans to total bacteria (p = 0.015) and the ratio of Bifidobacterium to total bacteria (p < 0.001) decreased from VOPI 0 to VOPI 3. Significant differences in total bacteria (p < 0.001) and S. mutans (p = 0.018) were detected from VOPI 0 to VOPI 2. A difference in Bifidobacterium (p < 0.001) was detected from VOPI 0 to VOPI 1.

Conclusion: Quantities of total bacteria (p < 0.001), S. mutans (p = 0.02) and ICDAS scores (p < 0.001) and VOPI scores were positively correlated. Quantities of ratio of S. mutans to total bacteria (p = 0.003) and ratio of Bifidobacterium to total bacteria (p < 0.001) and VOPI scores and ICDAS scores (p < 0.001) were negatively correlated.

Background: Non-traumatic dental conditions (NTDC) that present to the emergency department of a tertiary hospital tend to be related to dental caries, including facial cellulitis, abscess and toothache. This study aimed to report the types of dental conditions and the characteristics of children that presented to an urban tertiary hospital emergency department for NTDC.

Methods: Medical records were reviewed for children less than 19 years of age who presented to the emergency department over a 10-year period with a NTDC. Principal diagnosis, sociodemographic data and source of referral was obtained with treatment and investigations collated for those who were subsequently admitted.

Results: Across the total 4483 dental presentations, 2481 were NTDC. The most common age group was from 0 to 3 years of age (average 6.3) and 57.2% of children were male. Dental caries related diagnoses were the most common reasons for emergency department presentations. A total of 297 children were admitted for investigations and treatment.

Conclusions: Children present to emergency departments with caries related conditions more often than traumatic injuries. Targeted interventions are needed to ensure adequate oral health care access for children to avoid overburdening the emergency services in tertiary hospitals with NTDC.

Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours of Irish preschool teachers regarding the oral health (OH) of preschoolers aged 3-5 years old.

Methods: A validated 15-item questionnaire was completed by 90 preschool teachers in Dublin in January 2024. The questionnaire collected information on general demographics and assessed the knowledge and attitudes of teachers regarding early childhood OH. In addition, guided interviews were conducted to find out preschool teachers' awareness of OH training and resources, the challenges they face in organising OH education and their suggestions for improvement.

Results: Out of a cohort of 90 respondents, the mean number of questions answered correctly was 5.32 out of 9. One-third (34.4%) of the teachers said they learnt their OH knowledge from school or college, 8.9% from early childhood care training, 22.2% from their own dentist and 24.4% from other sources. Most teachers implemented OH education in some form whilst others said they had no time or resources. Qualitative data revealed a lack of formal OH training and knowledge, ideas for integrated OH activities, importance of collaboration and community engagement, barriers and challenges in implementation and need for mandatory OH training.

Conclusion: There are gaps in OH knowledge and lack of OH training for Irish preschool teachers. By identifying barriers and facilitators around OH training and resources for preschool teachers, the preschool teachers can be encouraged to create more supportive environments for improved OH.

Introduction: Traumatic Dental Injuries (TDIs) are a common oral health problem worldwide. Prompt and accurate diagnosis and treatment maximises the chances of favourable outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of Irish Dentists regarding the management of TDIs based on different trauma scenarios.

Methodology: Following ethical approval, a cross-sectional, 22-item self-administered questionnaire was distributed electronically to members of the Irish Dental Association between January and March 2024.

Results: A total of 245 complete responses were obtained, representing a 17% response rate. The results demonstrated a correlation between self-reported knowledge and number of correct answers. Overall 80% of respondents chose the correct storage medium for avulsed teeth. The majority of dentists aged > 46 years were unaware of the updated IADT guidelines. A large proportion of dentists showed inadequate knowledge with regard to the management of intruded permanent teeth (65%) and the endodontic management of an immature avulsed permanent tooth (50%). Management of intruded teeth and knowledge of root fractures was not as good as other injury types. The majority of respondents (85%) correctly answered that a tooth with negative sensibility tests following subluxation does not require endodontic treatment immediately.

Conclusions: The survey had an acceptable response rate and demonstrated overall good knowledge in the management of TDIs. However, there was still confusion over management of certain scenarios which could have negative repercussions for patients entering an unnecessary restorative cycle. There is a need to improve practitioner confidence and experience in the management of certain TDIs and improve awareness of the IADT guideline as a resource, especially in dentists with more years of experience.

Background: Bruxism is defined as the recurring muscular activity of the jaw, which is distinguished by the unconscious grinding or clenching of teeth or pushing and forcing of the lower jaw. The present study was conducted to assess sleep bruxism and its association with sleep quality, stress levels, and dental health in the paediatric population.

Methodology: 384 children aged 6-12 years were recruited for the study. Ethical approval from the institutional ethical committee and informed consent from parents and guardians were obtained. Children with systemic diseases, mental or developmental disorders, CNS-affecting medications, or those whose parents did not provide consent were not included. Bruxism was identified using the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) criteria through parental reports. Sleep quality and stress levels were assessed using AASM guidelines and the Perceived Stress Scale for Children (PSS-C). A chi-square test was applied to assess association, with a p value < 0.05 considered to be significant.

Results: The number of siblings and the mother's education level were also significantly associated. It was found that sleep bruxism is significantly associated with all parameters of sleep quality except the usage of pillows. When stress levels among children were assessed, it was found that 60 (15.6%) children had very low stress, 131 (34.1%) children had low stress, 95 (24.7%) children had average stress, 92 (24%) children had high stress, and 6 (1.6%) children had a very high level of stress. A statistically highly significant (p = 0.001) association was found between bruxism and stress levels among children.

Conclusion: The results of the present study concluded that sleep bruxism was significantly linked with sleep quality and stress levels among children, which ultimately affect dental health.

Introduction: Dental caries is the most common chronic disease worldwide, and various forms of fluoride are considered useful preventive tools. The production of nanoscale materials can significantly improve their mechanical and chemical properties. The present study compared the microhardness of primary tooth enamel after applying sodium fluoride varnish (conventional) and nano-sodium fluoride varnish.

Materials and methods: Sixty-eight sound canine teeth were selected in this experimental study. The teeth were mounted so that the buccal surface was exposed. A 3 × 3 mm square was obtained on the buccal surface of the crown of each tooth. Enamel surfaces were polished using sandpaper in the presence of water as a coolant. The samples were randomly divided into four groups (n = 17): G1, conventional 5% NaF; G2, 1% nano-NaF; G3, 5% nano-NaF; G4, control. The initial microhardness was measured. Before surface treatment with different fluoride compounds, the samples were placed in a demineralizing solution for two days, and the microhardness of all the samples was re-measured. Then G1, G2, and G3 were treated with the fluoride type specified for each group, and G4 was treated as a control (without treatment). Finally, pH cycling was applied, and the microhardness was measured again. Data were analyzed with SPSS 20, using Repeated measure ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey tests. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: Repeated measure ANOVA showed that microharness of G1, G2, G3, and G4 was statistically significant different. Tukey tests showed that the microhardness of G1, G2, and G3 were not significantly different. However, these three groups exhibited significantly more microhardness than the control group (P = 0.024, P = 0.027, and P = 0.010).

Conclusion: There was no significant differences in enamel microhardness of deciduous teeth between conventional 5% NaF,1% nano-NaF and 5% nano-NaF.

Purpose: To evaluate perceptions, attitudes, and clinical experience of Brazilian dental practitioners regarding molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH).

Methods: An online survey with 27 questions, covering professional profile data, perceptions, and knowledge on clinical management of MIH, was employed. Descriptive analyses, chi-square, Fisher's exact, and Cramer's V tests were used.

Results: Sample comprised 100 participants, equally distributed between those working in private or public sectors. Most private sector practitioners had 21-30 years of clinical experience (28%) and master's degree (50%), while most public sector practitioners had 11-20 years of clinical experience (32%) and a PhD degree (32%). Most participants (86%) recognized MIH in their practice. Statistically significant differences were observed in frequency (p = 0.001), incidence (p = 0.039), and lesion type (p = 0.043) between practitioners from both sectors. Uncertainly in management was reported by 49%, mainly in public sector. For mild MIH in incisors, no treatment was chosen (43%), and the treatment longevity was the only significant factor reported (p = 0.012). In cases of mild MIH in first permanent molars (FPMs), 51% of respondents opted to keep the affected tissue and apply fissure sealant. Glass ionomer (GI) restoration was commonly indicated for FPMs with severe MIH with moderate loss of structure and sensitivity (38%). In cases with substantial structural loss and pulpal involvement, the most chosen treatment was endodontic intervention combined with preformed crowns.

Conclusion: Brazilian dental practitioners face MIH in clinical practice. Although, public sector professionals are less confident in diagnosis and treatment, no significant differences in treatment preferences between public and private sector dental practitioners were identified.