bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiographic interpretation and treatment decisions among dental therapists and dentists in Western Australia
Authors: Riordan Paul J. , Espelid Ivar , Tveit Anne Bjørg
Published: May 2006

Abstract All dentists and dental therapists employed in the Community Dental Services in Western Australia were invited to participate in a questionnaire study to find out about their use of radiographs and opinions and knowledge about the diagnosis of approximal caries. Replies were received from 45 dentists (95.1%) and 207 dental therapists (84.0%). Most dentists would not restore a lesion before it appeared on radiograph to have reached the dentine, while therapists were more likely to consider a restoration for a lesion just in enamel. Sixty percent of all respondents thought that a cavity was present when the radiographic lesion was confined to enamel. Fifty‐seven percent of dentists thought that an average lesion took at least 12 months to progress from outer enamel to dentine, while a majority of dental therapists thought this would take less than 12 months. Radiographs were not frequently taken by the participants. Operators' opinions about cavity formation were the most important predictor of choice of treatment. In general, these participants' responses were similar to those provided by Norwegian and Dutch respondents in similar surveys conducted 5–6 yr ago, but the present participants worked in an optimally fluoridated area and might therefore have been expected to have adopted more cautious criteria for restorative treatment. Differences between dentists and dental therapists were generally not great. The results suggest that calibration of the operators in the service would offer benefits.
Caries experience in the primary dentition of Tanzanian and Finnish 3–7‐year‐old children
Authors: Kerosuo Heidi , Honkala Eino
Published: May 2006

Abstract Caries experience of primary teeth in relation to age, sex, ethnic group, socioeconomic status and frequency of consuming sweet snacks and drinks was studied among groups of Tanzanian and Finnish 3–7‐yr‐olds, a total of 11 IK children. In all age groups the Tanzanian children had higher mean dmft scores than Finnish children did. In the Finnish group the mean dmft score was higher at age 7 than at age 3, while in the Tanzanian group no statistically significant difference in dmft scores was found between age groups. In both groups maxillary incisors and molars were the main teeth affected by caries. Frequent consumption of sweet snacks and drinks increased the risk for caries in Tanzanian but not in Finnish children. High socioeconomic status decreased the risk for caries in Finnish children but among Tanzanian children high SES was not associated significantly with the risk of developing caries. According to these results, caries experience in Tanzanian urban nursery school children was significantly higher than in Finnish children of the same age, the differences being especially high among the youngest age groups.
Caries prevalence and treatment need amongst children in an Arabian community
Authors: Al‐Khateeb Tarek Lotfy , Al‐Marsafi Akmal Ismail , O'Mullane Denis Michael
Published: May 2006

Abstract A total of 1400 Saudi Arabian children in age groups 6–12 and 15 yr in private and public schools were examined for dental caries and treatment need in the cities of Jeddah (<0.30 ppm fluoride in drinking water). Rabagh (0.77 ppm F‐) and Mecca (2.47 ppm F‐). The mean dmft in 6‐yr‐olds in private schools in Jeddah was 2.9 compared with 6.3 in public schools (p < 0.001). The d component accounted for 65% of the total dmft in private schools and 76% in public schools in Jeddah. The mean dmft values in private and public schools in Rabagh were 1.5 and 2.8 respectively and 2.7 and 2.8 in Mecca; the d component accounted for approximately 65% in all groups. The figures for permanent teeth in 12‐ and 15‐yr‐olds show similar trends with caries levels being the highest in public schools in Jeddah: approximately 60% of the total DMFT was attributable to the D component in both school types in all three cities. Most of the treatment required in all three cities comprised one‐ or two‐surface fillings. The need for treatment was significantly higher in public schools.
Relationship between general health, social factors and oral health in women at the age of retirement
Authors: Norlén Per , Östberg Henrik , Björn Anna‐Lisa
Published: May 2006

Abstract Relationships between some medical, psychological, social factors and oral health were analyzed within a comprehensive study of women around the age of retirement. The study was performed in Malmö in 1985–1986 and included 165 women retiring from work between 851201 and 870131. Women in qualified professional positions and with high prosperity indices had on average significantly more remaining teeth and were less often edentulous than the others. The same applied to unmarried women compared to divorcees and widows. There were significant correlations between full blood glucose and serum urate concentrations and number of teeth. DFT and DFS. The mean number of prescribed drugs was negatively related to the number of remaining teeth and high drug consumption was positively related to oral dryness. Women complaining of strain, overwork, restlessness and difficulty in relaxing reported more often problems with oral dryness. Oral dryness was also related to high blood values of calcium, urate and triglycerides, while the serum levels of cholesterol were low. There were no differences between smokers and non‐smokers concerning any of the studied tooth‐related variables, oral dryness, hypertension or bodyweight. The results indicate a close relationship between general health, social factors and oral health.
Salivary levels of mutans streptococci, lactobacilli, yeasts, and root caries prevalence in non‐institutionalized elderly dental patients
Authors: Beighton D. , Hellyer P. H. , Lynch E. J. R. , Heath M. R.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Root caries prevalence was recorded for a consecutive sample of dental patients (n = 146), aged over 55 yr and with at least 12 natural teeth. The mean root DFS score of the males (n = 49) was 6.34 ± 4.55 and for the females (n = 97) 3.76 ± 3.31 (p < 0.001). The salivary levels of mutans streptococci, lactobacilli, and yeasts were determined in addition to salivary How rate and buffering capacity. Subjects with > 1 root DPS had significantly higher salivary levels of mutans streptococci, lactobacilli, and yeasts. They also had fewer teeth and more exposed root surfaces. In step‐wise multivariate analyses the factors significantly related to the root FOPS score were the number of exposed root surfaces, number of teeth, sex and salivary yeast levels (R2= 0.41). In the multivariate analyses salivary levels of mutans streptococci were not significantly related to any clinical measurement of root caries experience due to the greater strength of association between the root DFS score and salivary levels of yeasts. Subjects prescribed medicines with a reported xerostomic effect had significantly fewer active root lesions than those not prescribed such medicines and salivary levels of all microorganisms studied were significantly elevated in subjects prescribed medications containing sucrose.
Approximal caries diagnosis using fiber‐optic transillumination: a mathematical adjustment to improve validity
Authors: Verdonschot E. H. , Bronkhorst E. M. , Wenzel A.
Published: May 2006

Abstract Several studies were conducted recently to evaluate the use of Fiber‐Optic Trans‐Illumination (FOTI) in the diagnosis of approximal carious lesions. All these studies utilized radiographic readings to validate the FOTI diagnoses. Other investigations studied the value of radiographic readings using more solid validating techniques, which made it possible to judge the true state of decay, such as histology, cavity preparation and microradiography. In this study, data from both types of studies were used to estimate the validity of FOTI diagnosis of approximal caries relative to the true status of decay through correction for radiographic misclassification. The results indicate that particularly the sensitivity of FOTI diagnosis has yet to be determined.
Vertical angulation of the X‐ray beam and radiographic diagnosis of secondary caries
Authors: Tveit Anne Bjørg , Espelid Ivar , Erickson Robert L. , Glasspoole Eileen A.
Published: May 2006

Abstract The purpose of this study was to assess to what extent angulation of an X‐ray beam could affect the quality of diagnoses of caries adjacent to restorations with different radiopacities. Amalgam and composite class II restorations with and without secondary caries were done in extracted teeth. The teeth were radiographed using four different vertical angulations – 0, 5, 10, and 15°. Eight dentists diagnosed caries lesions on these radiographs. The best diagnostic outcome was found for the composite restorations radiographed at 10° vertical angulation. Diagnosis was generally better for lesions marginal to composites compared to amalgams. The quality of secondary caries diagnosis in connection with amalgam was not significantly affected by variations in vertical angulation from 0 up to 15°.
Optimism‐pessimism dimension and dental anxiety in children aged 10–12 years
Authors: Neverlien Per Otto , Johnsen Tom Backer
Published: May 2006

Abstract This study explored the relationships between Previous Denial Experience (PDE), Corah's Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS), the Dental Anxiety Question (DAQ), dispositional optimism as measured by the Life Orientation Test (LOT), and Clinical Behavioral Rating (CBR). The main purpose of the study reported here was to investigate the possible usefulness of the optimism‐pessimism dimension in predicting clinical dental anxiety. 163 children aged 10–12 yr participated in the investigation. The results indicate that both self‐reported dental anxiety and optimism‐pessimism were unique contributors to prediction of behavioral ratings of dental anxiety.
Salivary levels of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in dentate 80‐ and 85‐year‐old Swedish men and women
Authors: Köhler Birgitta , Persson Margareta
Published: May 2006

Abstract The number of Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, and lactobacilli in whole stimulated saliva was examined in 130 dentate 80‐ and 85‐yr‐old persons. 88.5% were positive for mutans streptococci and 29% carried > 106 cfu per ml saliva. S. mutans was most frequently isolated and was found in 114 persons (88%) alone or in combination with S. sobrinus. S. sobrinus was detected in 33 persons (25%), who also showed significantly higher salivary numbers of both mutans streptococci and lactobacilli than persons from whom S. sobrinus was not isolated. The S. sobrinus carriers also had significantly lower stimulated saliva secretion rates than the non‐carriers. 95% of the subjects had detectable levels of lactobacilli in saliva with 35% having > 105 cfu per ml saliva. When the subjects were divided into classes according to the number of intermaxillary contacts, i.e. the Eichner classification, the distribution of subjects with high and low salivary counts of cariogenic bacteria varied. Thus fewer subjects belonging to Eichner class A showed higher salivary numbers of mutans streptococci (14% had > 106 cfu/ml) as well as lactobacilli (21% had > 105 cfu/ml) than, for example, subjects belonging to Eichner class B (26% had > 106 cfu/ml of mutans streptococci. 35% had > 105 cfu/ml of lactobacilli). Subjects who carried a removable denture(s) had significantly higher salivary numbers of both mutans streptococci and lactobacilli than subjects without removable dentures.
Analysis of oral health information in the Spanish mass media
Authors: Noguerol Blas , Follana Mariano , Sicilia Alberto , Sanz Mariano
Published: May 2006

The purpose of this study was to evaluate oral health information delivered by the Spanish mass media. The study was composed of two parts. In a quantitative study three media were selected: Press. radio, and television. The study was carried out between December 1987 and March 1988. and the media with largest numbers and audience were selected. Information variables were: politics economy‐labor culture‐education interviews events‐reports sports leisure publicity health oral health miscellaneous. The mass media studied dedicated a very small percentage of their space/time to health information, with a clear predominance of oilier themes such as publicity, politics, and sports (17/1). In relation to oral health, results were even more significant because the space time dedicated to health in relation to oral health was 180/1 (P < 0.01). Most of (he oral health lime was given via promotional or politico‐professional issues (P < 0.05). In a qualitative study all available information relating in any way with oral health was selected from a survey of all written news by the non‐specialized Spanish press that appeared during 1 yr (Jan 1987 Jan 1988). Reports dedicated to education were only 170(31.48%) of the total (540) oral health reports. From 170 reports dedicated to oral health. 33 (19.41%) presented some sort of error and 137 (80.59) had an adequate educative content. Caries was the topic more frequently covered. 77.06% of the data, in contrast to periodontal disease, dealt with by only 33.53%. The qualitative level of data using a Score Level Index (SLI) was 42.73% of the highest possible level. Implications for public health dentistry are discussed.
Approximal caries and frequency of bitewing examinations in Swedish children and adolescents
Authors: Gröndahl Hans‐Göran , Lith Agneta , Jönsson Gunnel , Persson Yvonne
Published: May 2006

The aim of this study was to assess the number of, and time intervals between, bitewing examinations performed on a group of Swedish patients between 3 up to and including 18 yr of age and to relate them to the accumulated posterior approximal caries experience of the patients as found in the last bitewing examination before age 19. The patients showed a marked variability in approximal caries experience. 25% accounted for about 1% of the total number of carious lesions and restorations accumulated up to age 19 while 25% accounted for 60%. From age 9 up to age 18 more than 75% of the patients were subjected to at least one bitewing examination annually. Between 10 and 15 yr of age more than 90% received annual radiographic examinations. Mean number of bitewing examinations was 10.4 and the average lime interval between bitewing examinations was 1 1.5 months. 11% of the variation in the number of bitewing examinations and 11% of the variation in average time intervals between bitewing examinations could be explained by the number of lesions and restorations in the approximal surfaces of the patients accumulated up to age 19.
Predicting development of approximal dentin lesions by means of past caries experience
Authors: Lith Agneta , Gröndahl Hans‐Göran
Published: May 2006

The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy in predicting future development of approximal dentin lesions using radiographically observed numbers of restored and carious surfaces at age 13 as diagnostic criteria. ROC curve technique was applied employing the development of at least one new dentin lesion from age 1 3 to age 15 and 18 respectively, as validating criterion. Two groups of patients were considered, residing in communities with water fluoride content of 0.2 ppm and 1.2 ppm. respectively. Results showed that the development of dentin lesions could be predicted with an accuracy similar to that of many other dental radiographic procedures. This implies that it ought to be possible to use previous caries experience as a means of individualizing the scheduling of future radiographic procedures.
Caries prevalence in primary teeth as a predictor of early fissure caries in permanent first molars
Authors: Raadal Magne , Espelid Ivar
Published: May 2006

The study aimed to examine the validity of employing the caries experience of the primary dentition for predicting early caries in the permanent first molar fissures. Subjects consisted of 192 children who were followed for 2 yr, 91 of whom were pursued for a further year, all receiving semiannual check‐ups. The caries prevalence in the primary dentition (dmft). excluding incisors, was recorded at baseline, which was the year the children became 6. Fissure caries in the permanent first molars was recorded as being confined to enamel or dentin, based on findings during cavity preparation. The correlation between dmft and the number of intact permanent first molars was –0.368 and –0.337 after 2 and 3 yr observation respectively. When the children were grouped according to their dmft, a statistically significant relationship was found between the dmft and the number of intact molars in each individual. The positive and negative predictive values as well as the sensitivity and specificity of different dmft values were calculated, and the relationship between them illustrated by the use of ROC curves. Even if there are no specific dmft values which seem obviously favorable for the purpose, these data give information relevant in planning for large scale use of fissure sealing in preventing early fissure caries in permanent first molars.
Efficacy of APF treatments without prior tooth cleaning targeted to high‐risk children
Authors: Olivier Marie , Brodeur Jean‐Marc , Simard Paul L.
Published: May 2006

A clinical field trial was conducted, over a 2‐yr period, to evaluate the efficacy of bi‐annual APF gel topical applications without previous prophylaxis in reducing dental caries among high‐risk children living in non‐fluoridated communities. 488 children 6 yr old. presenting at least three cavities on proximal surfaces of their primary teeth, were randomly assigned to two groups. The experimental group received bi‐annual topical APF gel applications and the control group received a placebo. All treatments were given at school without any prior tooth cleaning. The APF gel provided a 34.3% reduction in caries incidence (P‐value = 0.03) among the children with 3–14 cavities on their primary teeth at the beginning of the study. However, the treatment did not show any efficacy in reducing caries incidence among the higher‐risk children having initially more than 14 cavities. These findings suggest that the efficacy of APF gel applications without previous prophylaxis varies according to the individual risk of the subjects and that more comprehensive programs should be targeted to very high‐risk children.
Discrepancy between need for prosthodontic treatment and complaints in an elderly edentulous population
Authors: Mojon Philippe , MacEntee Michael I.
Published: May 2006

Most reports indicate that about two‐thirds of the elderly population have poor oral health but that only about one‐third complain of a problem. The reason for this discrepancy has never been explained adequately. The objective of this study was to estimate the need for prosthodontic treatment in an edentulous elderly population, and to identify factors associated with complaints, needs for treatment, and the use of dentures. Interviews and examinations were conducted to determine the oral health and dental concerns among 269 residents of longterm cure facilities in Vancouver. The need for prosthodontic treatment was considered under theoretical, clinical, and practical conditions, and related to various factors that might help to predict this need. During the interview, about half (54%) of the sample identified a problem, and X3% of the subjects were either using a denture with a major fault or were missing a denture. Seventeen percent of the sample would not benefit from treatment because of a severely resorbed residual ridge, while the presence of a complaint combined with a prosthodontic need indicated that about one‐third (36%) would seek and benefit from treatment. The proportion of subjects with complaints was larger among the more educated subjects, and among those who had been recently to a dentist. It was not possible to predict the need for treatment from any of the socioeconomic factors considered. No significant association was observed between the need for treatment and the complaints, and many subjects seemed to be resigned to their discomfort or had unrealistic expectations from their dentures.
Comparison of intra‐examiner reproducibility in scoring caries in primary teeth of two scoring systems used to monitor caries progression
Authors: Solanki Geetesh C. , Sheiham Aubrey
Published: May 2006

The investigation was designed to compare the reproducibility of scoring systems proposed by Pitts (1), and Murray & Majid (2), when used to monitor caries progression in primary teeth. A sub‐sample of the posterior bitewing radiographs of 301, 5‐yr‐old children from a Duraphat clinical trial were re‐examined. The difference in the reproducibility of the two methods was not significant (P<0.05). The concern regarding the effect on reproducibility of using scoring systems with subdivisions of enamel when measuring caries progression in primary teeth appears to be unfounded.
The University of North Carolina Caries Risk Assessment study: further developments in caries risk prediction*
Authors: Disney Judith A. , Graves Richard C. , Stamm John W. , Bohannan Harry M. , Abernathy James R. , Zack Denis D.
Published: May 2006

Over 4000 first and fifth grade children from the areas surrounding Aiken, South Carolina, and Portland, Maine, participated in a 4‐yr study to develop caries risk assessment models. The predictors used at baseline included detailed clinical examinations, salivary microbiological tests, and sociodemographic and dental behavior data. Mean 3‐yr caries increments in South Carolina were twice those in Maine. For the four risk assessment models (two grade cohorts at two sites) specificity values averaged 0.83 and sensitivity values averaged 0.60. Clinical predictors such as prior DMFS, pit and fissure morphology, and predicted caries risk status were the major contributors to the models.
Variation of posterior approximal caries incidence with consumption of sweets with regard to other caries‐related factors in15–18‐year‐olds
Authors: Sundin Birgitta , Granath Lars , Birkhed Dowen
Published: May 2006

The aim of this study was lo analyze the relationships between caries incidence and a number of caries‐related factors in 15‐ 18‐yr‐olds, in order to estimate the explanatory value of consumption of sweets under different conditions. Sixty‐nine 18‐yr‐olds were interviewed about consumption of sweets and other sugar‐containing products during the past 3 yr. Data on oral hygiene, salivary counts of mutatis streptococci and lactobacilli. salivary How rate and oral sugar clearance time were collected when the individuals were 15 and 18 yr old. Caries incidence for the 3‐yr period was expressed as a percentage of the number of caries‐free approximal surfaces of premolars and molars at the age of 15. Simple linear correlations between caries incidence and the different variables showed that lactobacilli count ranked first (r = 0.26), sweets second (r = 0.25), and mutans streptococci count third (r = 0.24). The r value for caries incidence and consumption of sweets increased in subgroups with combinations of poor oral hygiene, a high intake of other sugary products and a low salivary flow rate (r = 0.67 0.70). In conclusion, consumption of sweets should still be considered an important caries‐related factor and particularly harmful when oral hygiene is poor and consumption of other sugary products is high.
Caries experience in subjects18–22 years of age after 13 years’discontinued water fluoridation in Okinawa
Authors: Kobayashi Seigo , Kawasaki Koji , Takagi Okiuji , Nakamura Munetou , Fujii Nobuo , Shinzato Mamiko , Maki Yoshinobu , Takaesu Yoshinori
Published: May 2006

The purpose of this study is to compare the stale of teeth in young adults who had consumed fluoridated water from birth to5–8 yr of age with the subjects who had non‐fluoridated water. The sample consisted of 117 18 22‐yr‐old female nursing school students. The data obtained in dental examinations were sorted according to their place of residence, and then divided into groups depending on whether their place of residence had been supplied with fluoridated water or not. The fluoride concentration in the water had been 0.7–1.0 ppm in the six water supply systems which were under the control of the US military base. In the subjects who had fluoridated water, the following differences were found when compared to the control subjects: missing teeth and highly progressed caries occurred less frequently; significantly lower caries prevalence was present on free smooth and approximal surfaces; the overall DMFT differences in favor of the fluoridated subjects were small and non‐significant.
Comparison of the effectiveness of three different methods in detection of changes in gingivitis in the primary dentition
Authors: Tinoco Neyde M. B. , Gjermo Per
Published: May 2006

The pattern of distribution and development of gingivitis is different in children and adults. Also the anatomy in the primary dentition is different from that in the permanent dentition. Indices to measure gingival inflammation and changes in this condition have been designed for the permanent dentition and may not necessarily perform adequately in the primary dentition. The purpose of the present study was to assess the association between indices commonly used in adults and to compare their ability to detect changes in gingivitis in children. The correlation between the Gingival Index and percent bleeding units (scores 2 and 3) was r = 0.93, while provoked bleeding from the interdental area correlated only weakly with the two. However, the non‐bleeding papilla index seemed to more effectively detect changes in the gingival condition induced by professional cleaning. Since gingivitis usually is less severe in the primary dentition than in the permanent dentition, it may be of importance to use an index with high sensitivity in studies where effect of interventions is to be evaluated in children.
Puberty‐associated gingivitis
Authors: Tiainen Leena , Asikainen Sirkka , Saxén Leena
Published: May 2006

In a 2‐yr follow‐up study gingival condition was related to oral hygiene and different stages of puberty in SN 14‐yr‐old Finnish schoolchildren. Visible plaque and gingival bleeding after probing were determined from six teeth, at four sites each. Bitewing radiographs were taken from the molar areas. These examinations were repeated 2 yr later. The pubertal stage of the subjects was determined at the age of 14 by the school physician based on the classification of Tanner according to breast development (M) in girls and genital development (G) in boys. All subjects were in the somatic period of puberty at the time of the baseline examination. No radiographically detectable bone loss was found in either of the examinations. “There was no difference in the gingival bleeding tendency at various pubertal stages when all subjects were included or when boys and girls were compared separately. Instead, a highly significant correlation was found between gingival bleeding and visible plaque, both at the baseline and 2 yr later. The results indicate that from the age of 14 to 16 the influence of oral hygiene on the gingival condition may be more important than that of the rising level of steroid hormones.
Prevalence of dental anxiety in an adult population in a major urban area in Sweden
Authors: Hakeberg Magnus , Berggren Ulf , Carlsson Sven G.
Published: May 2006

The aims of the study were to describe the level of dental anxiety in a representative sample of an adult population, to evaluate different demographic variables in relation to dental anxiety, and to compare two measurement scales of dental anxiety. A random sample of residents (n = 830) of the city of Gothenburg (population 432000) was selected for a telephone survey. The survey comprised different questions concerning demographic variables, dental care habits, and the level of dental anxiety. The methods of measurement of dental anxiety were a 10‐point dental Fear Scale (FS) and the Corah Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS). A total of 620 interviews were completed giving a response rate of 74.7%. 41.4% of the respondents were males. 58.6% females. Females were significantly more likely to report a high dental anxiety compared with males. The prevalence of high dental anxiety in the sample as measured by the FS and DAS was 6.7% and 5.4% respectively. The correlation between the FS and DAS was 0.81. The distribution of high dental anxiety and age showed a clearly and significantly higher portion of dental anxiety in the age group 20 39 yr compared to both younger and older groups. The effect of dental anxiety on regularity of dental visits revealed a significant difference as measured by the FS. No significant correlation was found between denial anxiety and educational level or income. A majority of the respondents (82 95%) expressed a desire for establishment of a special dental fear treatment clinic without need for referral.
Assessment of quality of public oral health care on the basis of patient records
Authors: Vehkalahti Miira , Rytömaa Inkeri , Helminen Seppo
Published: May 2006

The quality of public oral health care, especially the quality of preventive treatment in relation to patients' oral health, was investigated. The population studied consisted of 367 subjects representing the 15‐yr‐olds living in Helsinki in 1986. Data were taken from the patients’oral health charts, obtained from municipal dental clinics. Clinical examination of the teeth and periodontium had been adequately documented in 98% of cases. In 84% of eases, status recordings matched those recorded previously. Preventive treatment, on the whole, seemed insufficient and stereotyped. Of all patients 55%, and of those in high risk groups only 57≃60% had had a topical application of fluoride at least once during treatment. Periodontal treatment was insufficient and did not correlate with recorded clinical findings. The results indicate that (he concept of prevention and its selective use had not been fully adopted as routine.
Dental needs of the elderly in residential care in Newcastle‐upon‐Tyne and the role of formal carers
Authors: Merelie Denise Lynn , Heyman Bob
Published: May 2006

Interviews were carried out on 61 formal carers from 41 residential homes and 379 elderly residents from 35 homes. Formal carers were questioned about their own dental health and arrangements made to maintain the dental health of the residents. Only 46% of carers attended a dentist regularly although the majority knew that teeth and dentures should be examined regularly. Carers arranged most of the dental treatment received by residents. The percentage of residents from each home receiving treatment ranged from 0% to 52%. Residents judged by formal carers to be capable of participation were interviewed and a 40% stratified random sub‐sample was examined. 96% of residents stated that they would only attend a dentist if they were experiencing problems. However, among residents reporting problems (25% of the sample), only a third wished to see a dentist. This proportion rose to half when treatment was offered. The reported barriers to seeking dental treatment included the resident's belief that he or she was coping satisfactorily, transport difficulties and ill health. Denture and oral hygiene were poor and dentures cleaned by staff were no cleaner than those cleaned by residents. A random sample of residents judged by formal carers to be confused were also examined. The condition of their teeth and dentures was similar to that of non‐confused residents.
University of North Carolina Caries Risk Assessment Study: comparisons of High Risk Prediction, Any Risk Prediction, and Any Risk Biologic models
Authors: Beck J. D. , Weintraub J. A. , Disney J. A. , Graves R. C. , Stamm J. W. , Kaste L. M. , Bohannan H. M.
Published: May 2006

The purpose of this analysis is to compare three different statistical models for predicting children likely to he at risk of developing dental caries over a 3‐yr period. Data are based on 4117 children who participated in the University of North Carolina Caries Risk Assessment Study, a longitudinal study conducted in the Aiken, South Carolina, and Portland. Maine areas. The three models differed with respect to either the types of variables included or the definition of disease outcome. The two “Prediction” models included both risk factor variables thought to cause dental caries and indicator variables that are associated with dental caries, but are not thought to be causal for the disease. The “Etiologic” model included only etiologic factors as variables. A dichotomous outcome measure – none or any 3‐yr increment, was used in the “Any Risk Etiologic model” and the “Any Risk Prediction Model”. Another outcome, based on a gradient measure of disease, was used in the “High Risk Prediction Model”. The variables that are significant in these models vary across grades and sites, but are more consistent among the Etiologic model than the Predictor models. However, among the three sets of models, the Any Risk Prediction Models have the highest sensitivity and positive predictive values, whereas the High Risk Prediction Models have the highest specificity and negative predictive values. Considerations in determining model preference are discussed.
Dental caries, sugar consumption and restorative dental care in12–13‐year‐old children in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Akpata E. S. , Al‐Shammery Abdullah R. , Saeed Hassan I.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – A 3‐day dietary history was obtained from 363 Riyadh schoolchildren aged 12–13 yr, after which their dentitions were examined for dental caries. About 16–31% of the children were caries‐free and the mean DMFT varied between 1.67 and 2.43. However, in those with at least one tooth decayed, missing or filled, the mean DMFT remained constant at about 3, irrespective of age or gender: and most of the carious teeth were unrestored. There was a statistically significant relationship between DFS and the frequency of sugar consumption on the first 2 days of the dietary diary. It is suggested that the management of dental caries in the children must include the control of dietary sugar.
General dental practitioners' evaluation of the need for extraction of asymptomatic mandibular third molars
Authors: Knutsson Kerstin , Brehmer Berndt , Lysell Leif , Rohlin Madeleine
Published: May 2006

Thirty general dental practitioners were asked to evaluate the need for extraction of asymptomatic mandibular third molars. Thirty‐six mandibular third molars with equal distribution of angular positions, impaction status, males and females and age groups were selected. To estimate the consistency of the evaluation, the 36 cases were duplicated so that, in all, 72 teeth were evaluated. The number of molars proposed to he extracted by the observers varied from 0 to 26, There was no third molar which all observers agreed should be extracted. The two molars which most observers, 25 and 23 of altogether 30 observers, proposed to be extracted were partially covered by soft tissue. The decision not to extract two molars was unanimous. Both of these were completely covered by hone tissue and positioned vertically. The mean overall infra‐observer agreement for the therapeutical decision was 92%, with a range of 69–100%. The length of professional experience of the observer did not influence the evaluation whether or not to extract. We conclude that there is a great variation among general dental practitioners regarding their evaluation on the need for removal of asymptomatic mandibular third molars.
Comparative study of oral health status between Scottish and Japanese schoolchildren aged6–11 years
Authors: Yonemitsu Masami , Sutcliffe Philip
Published: May 2006

This study was carried out to examine and compare the differences in oral health status between Scottish (Fife) and Japanese (Motoyoshi) primary schoolchildren, and also to analyse some factors concerned with the differences found. It was observed that caries experience is higher in Motoyoshi than in Fife, despite Fife schoolchildren having poorer oral cleanliness and consuming snacks more frequently. However, Fife children had more fissure sealants and brushed their teeth more frequently with fluoridated dentifrice than did Motoyoshi children. The sugar content of snacks consumed by Motoyoshi children was higher than that of the Scots. Gingivitis (PMA positive rate) was higher in Fife than in Motoyoshi, and it was also noted that Fife children were less independent than Motoyoshi children in their daily behaviour.
Dental caries experience and prevalence of children afraid of dental treatment
Authors: Bedi Raman , Sutcliffe Philip , Donnan Peter , Barrett Nicola , McConnachie John
Published: May 2006

The aim of this study was to examine the clinical outcome with regard to dental caries of high self reported dental anxiety in a group of Scottish secondary schoolchildren. 1103 children participated in the study, mean age 14 yr (sd 0.35 yr), and the prevalence of high dental anxiety was 7.1% (95% CI = 5.6%, 8.6%). When these children were compared with their contemporaries their DM FT and all its components were higher but only the mean MT reached statistical significance after adjusting for gender and social class. Children with a high dental anxiety were 62% more likely to have at least I missing tooth due to caries. In addition this group when compared to the rest of the study population, had a significantly lower mean number of teeth fissure scaled and a lower proportion of children with sealants. No similar trend was obvious for children who had a high general Tear. The dentally anxious more accurately perceived their treatment need and were more likely to defer, cancel or not turn up for dental appointments.
Clinical correlates of dental anxiety among older adults
Authors: Locker David , Liddell Andree
Published: May 2006

Most studies of the relationship between dental anxiety and oral health status have used subjective rather than clinical indicators of oral health. In this paper we examine differences between older adults who are and are not dentally anxious using a broad range of clinical measures. The data show that dentally anxious individuals were more likely to be edentulous, and among the dentale, had more missing and fewer filled teeth. As a result, dentally anxious dentale subjects were more likely to need prosthodontic treatment. They were also more likely to need immediate treatment for the relief of pain and infection and periodontal care. There was evidence to suggest differences in patterns of dental treatment between those who were and were not dentally anxious and some evidence consistent with the hypothesis that aging influences the relationship between dental anxiety and oral health status.
Caries development after termination ot a fluoride rinsing program
Authors: Heidmann J. , Poulsen S. , Arnbjerg D. , Kirkegaard E. , Laurberg L.
Published: May 2006

In a municipality near Copenhagen, Denmark, where fortnightly fluoride rinses with 0.2% neutral sodium fluoride had been performed for more than a decade, 1306 children from kindergarten through 6th grade were stratified by school and grade and randomly distributed into two groups. One group continued the fluoride rinses, the other group had the fluoride solution replaced with distilled water. Both solutions were slightly flavored. 1083 children completed the 3‐yr trial. Caries was recorded clinically by the dentists in the municipal dental service using the diagnostic criteria for the Child Dental Health Services, and on bitewing radiographs by one of the authors applying the criteria developed by Grøundahl. et al. Permanent molars and premolars were included in the study. Clinically, caries increment in the two groups was the same with pits and fissures containing 94% of the DMFS. According to the radiographs, caries progression in the water group was higher than in the fluoride group. This difference was statistically significant for the surfaces erupting during the study (P <0.05).
Dental health behavior in fathers of young families in Finland
Authors: Hyssälä Liisa , Oikarinen Kyösti , Rautava Päivi , Paunio Päivi , Sillanpää Matti
Published: May 2006

The purpose of this study was to examine dental health behavior in young fathers by means of a questionnaire for subjective evaluation of dental status, frequency of caries and visits to the dentist. Cariogenic diet was estimated by the consumption of sweets, confectionery and soft drinks. The participation rate 18 months after the birth of the family's first child was 73.1%. The mean age of the respondents was 28.1 yr (range 17–49; SD 4.6). When background factors were considered, it was observed that cariogenic diet was more often mentioned by participants from the lower social groups. The standard of the wife's knowledge level was an important indicator of dental care behavior in the fathers. If the wife's knowledge level was high, the father assessed the future condition of his child's teeth as good.
Validity of a patient self‐completed health questionnaire in a primary care dental practice
Authors: Fenlon Michael R. , McCartan Bernard E.
Published: May 2006

1500 patient medical histories derived from self‐completed health questionnaires alone and from a combination of questionnaire, structured interview by a dentist, and selective reference to family doctors were compared. In 4.25% of cases, the questionnaire medical history was significantly deficient. Such questionnaires yield an inadequate medical history when used on their own.
Prevalence of non‐cavitated and cavitated carious lesions in a random sample of 7‐9‐year‐old schoolchildren in Montreal, Quebec
Authors: Ismail Amis I. , Brodeur Jean‐Marc , Gagnon Pierre , Payette Martin , Picard Daniel , Hamalian Talia , Olivier Marie , Eastwood Brian J.
Published: May 2006

This report describes the prevalence of non‐cavitated and cavitated carious lesions in 911 randomly selected children in grades one through three on the Island of Montreal. Quebec, Canada. The criteria for diagnosis were developed for a longitudinal epidemiological study of restorative treatment decisions by dentists practising under a provincial dental insurance program for children. The intra‐ and inter‐examiner reliability correlation coefficients of the two examiners were excellent (Kappa 0.80). The most frequent carious lesion found in the examined children were non‐cavitated carious lesions (incipient) within 1.5 of the gingival line on smooth tooth surfaces, and stained or non‐cavitated carious lesions on pits and fissures. Out of 911 children in the study, 19.6% had sealants. Children whose parents completed a university education had a significantly lower prevalence of non‐cavitated and cavitated carious lesions and fillings, and a significantly higher mean number of sealants than children whose parents had only primary school education. Education status of the parents was a significant risk marker of children with high caries experience and these children had a significantly higher mean number of non‐cavitated carious lesions. This study has found that non‐cavitaled carious lesions arc significantly more prevalent than cavitated carious lesions in children.
Risk indicators and potential risk factors for caries in 5‐year‐olds of different ethnic groups in Amsterdam
Authors: Verrips G. H. , Frencken J. E. , Kalsbeek H. , ter Horst G. , Filedt Kok‐Weimar T. L.
Published: May 2006

The aim of this study was threefold: first, to assess the oral health of Turkish. Moroccan. Surinamese, Dutch and “other” 5‐yr‐old children living in Amsterdam; second, to identify risk indicators for caries, in addition to ethnicity: and third, to identify potential risk factors related to differences in caries experience in these children. Results showed the mean dmfs scores of Turkish and Moroccan children to be much higher than that of the Dutch and Surinamese children; 8.1 and 8.2 versus 3.6 and 3.4, respectively. The educational level of the parents and the gender of the children were important risk indicators, in addition lo ethnicity. The age of the child at which the parents had started lo brush their child's teeth, the use of fluoride tablets and the regularity of the brushing behavior in the past could be identified as potential risk factors.
Relationship of microbial and salivary parameters with dental caries in Brazilian pre‐school children
Authors: Bretz Walter A. , Djahjah Carlos , Almeida Rui S. , Hujoel Philippe P. , Loesche Walter J.
Published: May 2006

Caries examination and collection of paraffin wax‐Stimulated saliva samples were performed in 37 children.3–6 years old in a child‐care facility at the Vidigal shim, Rio de Janeiro. Brazil. The levels of mutatis streptococci and lactobacilli in saliva were estimated by the Cariescreen and by the Dentocult tests and the saliva secretion rate was determined. Statistical analysis was performed on surface‐based and patient‐based caries prevalence rates (SBCPR and PBCPR) and related to bacterial and salivary parameters. The results show that 31 of the 37 children were caries active. The SBCPR for the primary dentition was 6.7%± 1.0%. Occlusal surfaces were the most affected by decay. Regression analysis revealed that mutans streptococci salivary levels were significantly associated with the SBCPR (P= 0.0001). Similarly, lactobacilli salivary levels were significantly associated with the SBCPR (P= 0.0001). No significant association could be found between the saliva secretion rate and the SBCPR. When regression analysis was used to model dependence of the SBCPR on both organisms, the mutatis streptococci and lactobacilli salivary levels were significantly associated with the SBCPRs (P= 0.0021 and 0.01 18. respectively), and salivary levels of these organisms accounted for 57% n of the SBCPR variability. These findings indicate that the levels of mutans streptococci and lacto‐bacilli in saliva are significantly related to the SBCPRs on the primary dentition of these children.
Restorative treatment thresholds and agreement in treatment decision‐making
Authors: Kay Elizabeth Jane , Nuttall Nigel Michael , Kniil‐Jones Robin
Published: May 2006

It has been recognised for many years that treatment decision‐making among dentists often shows wide variation. This study sought to examine the effect of dentists’stated treatment thresholds as a source of variation between them, Twenty dentists made 360 treatment decisions about the approximal surfaces of extruded teeth seen in simulated bitewing radiographs. They also stated their personal treatment thresholds, i.e. the depth of lesion which they intended to restore. One hundred and ninety pairwise comparisons of treatment decisions showed that only 16% of the dentist pairs showed substantial agreement. Dentist pairs who reported that they held the same interventive threshold achieved exactly the same mean level of agreement in treatment decision‐making as dentist pairs who disagreed about the appropriate threshold for restorative intervention. The study suggests that restorative thresholds which are reported to be used by dentists may be poorly correlated with the number of positive treatment decisions actually made.