bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dentist and patient opinions about the ideal dentist and patient ‐developing a compact questionnaire
Authors: Lahti Satu , Tuutti Heikki , Hausen Hannu , Kääriäinen Rislo
Published: May 2006

The aims of the study were to determine what according to lay people and dentists in the Kuopio and North Karelia provinces of Finland characterizes the ideal dentist and the ideal patient and to develop a proper questionnaire for further studies in dentist‐patient relationship. A questionnaire containing 124, five‐class Likert scale statements and questions about background variables was sent in November 1988 to a representative sample of lay people and to all dentists in these regions. To extract areas of preferences for both dentists and patients, and to select questions for further studies on dentist‐patient relationship, factor analysis was applied to the data. Similarities and differences in the opinions of dentists and patients were also evaluated by single statements. According to factor analyses, the perceptions of dentists and patients were in general similar, communicativeness and informativeness being the most important traits of dentists and activeness, compliance and motivation being the most important trails of patients. However, differences were also found which should be taken into consideration when teaching dentists about the dentist‐patient relationship. Based on the current results we also propose a compact questionnaire to be used in further studies.
Coronal caries and restorations in an elderly population in Germany
Authors: Strübig Wolfgang , Depping Matthias
Published: May 2006

In an epidemiologic study, the dental health status of elderly persons in Germany was investigated. A total of 458 persons aged 60 yr and over participated in the study, with 89 persons being residents of old‐people's homes. With a mean DMFS score of 87.3, the mean number of manifest caries was low (1.2) and the standard of conservative and prosthetic care high. Of a mean number of 17.75 filled surfaces, 59.6% were surfaces with crowns. Dental health is a social problem. The mean number of caries cavities was 10 times higher in institutionalized elderly persons of low social class than in non‐institutionalized persons of the same age. Finally, initiatives to improve oral and dental hygiene in all age groups examined in this study are urgently required.
Determinants of variation in dental caries experience in primary teeth of Hong Kong children aged 6–8 years
Authors: Evans R. Wendell , Lo Edward C. M. , Darvell Brian W.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – A representative sample of Hong Kong children aged 6–8 yr was examined for dental caries, and data on possible explanatory variables for dmft were obtained from questionnaires. Variation in dmft was partially accounted for by the effect of some demographic variables and other variables having a socioeconomic base. Girls had a lower dmft index than boys, and being born in Hong Kong rather than elsewhere (that is, China) was also associated with a lower dmft index. Better dental status was strongly associated with increasing educational level of the mother, monthly household income, and with an increasingly positive perception of the questionnaire respondent's own dental status. Preschool dental visits and enrolment in the School Dental Care Service were associated with higher dmft indices. Altogether, 22.5% of the variance in dmft was explained. It was concluded that 1) demographic and socioeconomic factors significantly affect dmft variation in Hong Kong, 2) the mother's role in determining the dental status of her child is probably important, and 3) further elucidation of the variation in dmft will depend on the analysis of data pertaining to dietary and oral hygiene practices during the preschool years and to an analysis of tooth morphology, fluoride exposure, and microbiologic, salivary, and genetic factors.
The clinician's ability to identify caries risk subjects without saliva tests – a pilot study
Authors: Isokangas Pauli , Alanen Pentti , Tiekso Jaakko
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The average clinician's ability to identify caries risk children without any saliva tests was studied in field conditions. The results suggest that a clinician can reach a high level in prediction of future caries occurrence through the use of clinical and sociodemographic information routinely available al annual clinical examinations.
Prevalence of dental caries and gingivitis in a population of Mexican schoolchildren
Authors: González Mireya , Cabrera Raúl , Grossi Sara G. , Franco Francisco , Aguirre Alfredo
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The prevalence of dental caries and gingivitis was assessed in schoolchildren of the Tlalpan region in Mexico City. A total of 700 children (age range: 11–17 yr) of both sexes were examined. The sample population included children attending the Middle‐School System, where two shifts are run (A.M. and P.M.). Decayed, missing and filled surfaces (DMFS), and Gingival Index (GI) were recorded for all existing teeth. Analysis of the data showed that mean DMFS scores increased with chronological age in both genders, were higher in the P.M. session, and more elevated in females. Similarly the mean GI scores also increased with age, and were higher in the P.M. session. In contrast to the DMFS scores, males presented higher GI scores than females at all age intervals. The results of our study indicated a distinctively high prevalence of caries and gingivitis in Mexican schoolchildren.
Simulation study of methods to detect periodontal associations when they are inconsistent among subjects
Authors: Cohen M. E.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – Most statistical methods used to evaluate associations between indices of clinical periodontal diseases and purported prognostic markers test for effects across subjects. If associations exist within only a subset of subjects, however, associations may be masked, particularly in small studies. This issue was explored by using simulation to study four methods for detecting periodontal associations. Built into the simulations was the possible biological reality that a non‐zero association between the two variables of interest (squared correlation coefficients, ρ2, ranged from 0.1 to 0.9 depending on simulation), measured at 16 sites per subject, did not exist in all of 10 hypothetical subjects. The four methods for testing the null hypothesis that ρ= 0, or a related hypothesis; were: (1) Sites, analysis based on 160 sites incorrectly considered independent observations; (2) Subjects, analysis based on one score for each of 10 subjects; (3) Each subject, separate analyses based on sites within each of 10 subjects, family‐wise type I (α) error corrected for multiplicity, and (4) the Each Subject method where P‐levels were estimated using permutation procedures rather than t‐distributions. Each Subject methods were found to have greater relative power (although there are differences in null hypotheses) under conditions of heterogeneity in p and are considered to be particularly relevant in exploratory periodontal research when the primary interest is establishing the existence of a relationship, even if in only a subset of subjects.
A radiographic study of dental health in adult patients with dental anxiety
Authors: Hakeberg Magnus , Berggren Ulf , Gröndahl Hans‐Göran
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The objective of this study was to compare the dental health in a group of 90 patients with severe dental fear (FP), aged 20–41 yr, with that of a matched control group of ordinary dental patients (OP). All registrations were made from radiographic intraoral full mouth surveys. Mean number of missing teeth among FP and OP patients was 4.4 and 2.5, respectively. On average. FP patients had 19.5 decayed surfaces compared to 7.9 in OP patients. Mean number of filled surfaces was 13.1 and 8.1 in OP and FP patients, respectively. FP patients, on average, had significantly more periradicular bone lesions as well as pronounced marginal bone loss than OP patients. This study showed that dental fear patients in general have a substantially deteriorated dental health compared to ordinary dental patients. Moreover, different dental care habits were evident between FP and OP patients. A progressive severity in dental disease pattern was found among FP patients.
Norwegian adults' perceived need for coping skills to adjust to dental and non‐dental life events
Authors: Haugejorden Ola , Rise Jostein , Klock Kristin S.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – Limited attention has been paid to the importance which adults attach to dental, as opposed to other, life events. Consequently, the purpose of the present study was to determine how Norwegain adults rate the need for adjustment to cope with losing teeth or getting dentures, relative to some other life events, and to study effects of age, gender, level of education, place of residence, smoking, drinking and exercise habits. A representative, simple random sample of 400 residents of the County of Hordaland aged 20‐69 yr received a mail questionnaire plus one reminder requesting demographic information and completion of a 48‐item Social Readjustment Rating Questionnaire (SRRQ) in May 1990. The mean age of the 284 who responded (71%) was 41.1 yr (SD= 13.5 yr). The replies to the SRRQ were given on a graphic rating scale with end points “not difficult at all” (0 cm) and “more difficult than anything” (20 cm). Mean values were calculated and used to rank the life events. “Losing one or more teeth” was ranked 30 (m̄= 11.8; SD = 5.6) and “getting dentures” 33 (m̄= 13.8; SD = 5.5). “Losing one or more teeth” was on a par with life events like “trouble with other relatives” (m̄= 11.7). “Getting dentures” occupied a position between “trouble with wife/husband” (m̄= 14.3) and “wife/ husband stopping work” (m̄= 13.8). Multiple Classification Analysis revealed significant effects of education on “losing one or more teeth”; and of age, sex and education on “getting dentures” (P<0.05). Furthermore, it was found that these two dental life events required an above average degree of readjustment according to the Social Readjustment Rating Questionnaire.
Effects of cannabis smoking on oral soft tissues
Authors: Darling M. R. , Arendorf T. M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The oral effects of cigarette smoking have been well documented but the effects of cannabis smoke on the oral environment have been poorly documented. Three‐hundred cannabis/tobacco/methaqualone smokers were examined. Two control groups consisting of 152 tobacco‐ and 189 non‐smokers respectively were examined similarly. Health of the oral tissues and oral dryness was recorded. Lesions present included leukoedema, leukoplakia and numerous others. The only significant differences between lesions and conditions noted in cannabis users and controls occurred with respect to leukoedema, dry mouth and traumatic ulcer.
Anxiety about dental hygienist treatment
Authors: de Jongh Ad , Stouthard Marlies E. A.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – Although dental anxiety is a well investigated phenomenon in dental health care, remarkably little is known about anxiety reactions related to treatment carried out by the dental hygienist. In the present study anxiety reactions were measured among 101 patients attending the dental hygienist. General level of anxiety was assessed through the PAQ (Photo Anxiety Questionnaire; Stouthard, De Jongh & Hoogstraten, 1991), whereas an additional questionnaire was used to obtain information about specific stimuli and situations that might provoke anxiety in the dental hygienist situation. The results indicated that during dental hygienist treatment only 15% of the patients experienced no feelings of anxiety. Another 15% of the patients reported that a visit to the dental hygienist was more distressing than dental treatment. The level of anxiety appeared to be strongly related to a number of stimuli and situations, with actual pain (78%) and expected pain (67%) major anxiety provoking factors. The relation between pain and anxiety was highly significant, with highly anxious patients having more fear for pain than their low anxious counterparts. Also feelings and sounds of instruments, patient's helplessness and perceived lack of control over what happens were identified as important contributors to anxiety for the dental hygienist treatment. The results of this study suggests that treatment by the dental hygienist is a distressing event for many patients.
Effects of non‐response on estimates derived from an oral health survey of older adults
Authors: Locker David
Published: May 2006

Abstract – A major source of bias in health surveys is non‐response on the part of those selected to take part in a study. In a survey of the oral health of older adults in Ontario, Canada, we used an initial telephone survey based on random digit dialling with a personal interview and clinical examination follow‐up. The telephone survey was completed by 3033 individuals (78.0%) of those sampled. The follow‐up was completed by only 907 (30.0%) of these subjects. Nevertheless, there were no major differences in the characteristics of those completing the telephone survey and those subsequently participating in the follow‐up. Non‐response bias analysis indicated that differences between crude and adjusted estimates of the prevalence of oral conditions were small and the effect of non‐response on estimates of the relationship between socioeconomic status and oral health in this population were also small. These results indicate that response rates lower than those conventionally regarded as acceptable do not necessarily compromise the results of epidemiological studies.
Use of health care services in two rural communities in Tanzania
Authors: Sarita Paulo T. N. , Tuominen Risto
Published: May 2006

Abstract – This study was undertaken to investigate the pattern of utilization of medical and dental health care services in rural Tanzania. Two hundred adults, 91 men and 109 women aged 20 or over, were interviewed. Nearly all subjects reported using modern dental and medical health care services. Home remedy was the only indigenous method of treatment used for dental problems while for medical problems a traditional healer was the most commonly used indigenous alternative. The use of both indigenous and modern health care services was significantly lower for dental than for medical problems (P < 0.05). It seems that the pattern of utilization of health care services differs for medical and dental problems. This should be taken into account when planning comprehensive health care services for rural African societies.
Transmission of mutans streptococci to infants following short term application of an iodine‐NaF solution to mothers' dentition
Authors: Dasanayake Ananda P. , Caufield Page W. , Cutter Gary R. , Stiles H. M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – In a randomized clinical trial, six applications of an I2‐NaF or a placebo solution were administered to the mothers' dentition at the time of tooth emergence of her infant, to evaluate its effect on transmission of mutans streptococci (MS) to the infant. MS and other bacterial levels were periodically monitored in 48 mother‐infant pairs until the child's third birthday. There were significant reductions in maternal salivary MS (P=0.04), lactobacilli (P=0.04), total streptococci (P= 0.002), and total cultivable organisms (P= 0.004) immediately following treatment. In children, 3‐yr incidence of MS colonization and the time of acquisition of MS or the caries experience did not differ significantly between the two groups. We conclude that short‐term application of I2‐NaF to the maternal dentition of predentate infants significantly lowers MS, lactobacilli, total streptococci, and total cultivable bacteria in mothers' saliva, but does not influence the incidence and the time of acquisition of MS or the caries experience in children.
Cross validation of a Brazilian version of the Dental Fear Survey
Authors: Cesar Jose , de Moraes Antonio Bento A. , Milgrom Peter , Kleinknecht Ronald A.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The Dental Fear Survey (DFS), a paper and pencil instrument for assessing dental fear and avoidance, has been widely used and validated in fear studies in the US. However, before such instruments are used in countries and cultures dissimilar to the one in which it was developed, they should be cross‐validated in that culture. The present study is an examination of the DFS response characteristics in a group of 374 Brazilian university students. Factor analysis of the DFS revealed three factors essentially identical to those found among university students in the US and in Singapore, as well as among US adult dental patients. Higher DFS scores were significantly associated longer intervals since last dental visit. These results are taken as evidence that the DFS performs in this Brazilian sample very much as it does in other samples; and is thus, a valid indicator of dental fear at least among Brazilian university students.
Extent and Severity of periodontal destruction based on partial clinical assessments
Authors: Papapanou Panos N. , Wennström Jan L. , Johnsson Tommy
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The aim of the present study was (i) to identify the 10 approximal tooth sites that provide Extent and Severity estimates of clinical attachment loss which are maximally coherent to the full mouth scores, and (ii) to evaluate the applicability of such a partial recording system. Data from two subject samples, comprising 192 subjects aged 30–64 yr (sample A) and 175 subjects aged 35–80 yr (sample B), were involved in the development and the evaluation of the system, respectively. Approximal probing attachment loss (PAL) measurements were available from all subjects. A PAL value of > 1 mm was required for a tooth site in order to qualify for the Extent and Severity computations. A full mouth bivariate Extent and Severity Index (FESI) was firstly calculated for every subject in sample A. Multiple regression models applied on data derived from the same sample identified the 10 approximal tooth sites which provided the best correlation to the full‐mouth scores (correlation coefficients between partial and full mouth scorings of Extent and Severity 0.85 and 0.88, respectively). All tooth types were found to be represented in this set of sites and the ratio of mesial/distal sites was 6/4. The applicability of a partial recording system (PESI) based on these sites was evaluated in sample B. Fully comparable estimates between PESI and FESI values were obtained, but the degree of correlation varied at different ages. Further adjustments by means of regression models failed to increase the validity and reliability of the PESI. It was concluded that the proposed partial recording system is robust and warrants further evaluation in epidemiologic studies of destructive periodontal disease.
Juvenile periodontitis – pattern of progression and relationship to clinical periodontal parameters
Authors: Albandar Jasim M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The present investigation was carried out 1) to identify subjects with juvenile periodontitis (JP) in a group of schoolchildren from a community with a high prevalence of periodontal diseases and with no access to preventive dental care, and 2) to study the clinical features of the disease and the progression pattern during a period of 1 yr, and the relationship of JP to clinical periodontal parameters. The periodontal condition of a group of 502 Iraqi schoolchildren (260 girls and 242 boys) was assessed radiographically and clinically at baseline. Children showing 3 mm arc‐shaped angular radiographic bone loss at the proximal surfaces of two or more first molars and who showed clinical attachment loss at the same sites were regarded as JP patients. A second group of children with no signs of JP were randomly chosen from the study material. One year later, the JP and the non‐JP groups were re‐examined radiographically and clinically to assess plaque, gingivitis and presence of calculus. The results showed that nine children (1.8%) had JP. The ratio of girls to boys was 3.5:1, and of localized to generalized forms 2:1. Mesial surfaces of first molars were more often affected than distal surfaces. Clinical assessments showed a more profound loss than was depicted radiographically. All JP patients exhibited evidence of periodontal disease progression during the following year. There were no differences between JP and non‐JP children with respect to gingival inflammation, dental plaque, or calculus deposits on teeth. It was concluded that the present findings are consistent with the view that plaque and plaque‐retaining factors may predispose to the high rate of periodontal support loss usually seen in JP patients.
Dental status of 12‐year‐olds treated in private practice and a school dental service
Authors: Riordan Paul J. , Dalton‐Ecker Laura , Edwards Tegwyn S.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – Different ways of service provision frequently lead to different services being provided. In the School Dental Service (SDS) in Western Australia, all 5–15‐yr‐olds are eligible for care free of charge and most avail themselves of the service. The parents of some children choose to use private dentists (typically copaying about 50% of the cost) and their children do not attend the SDS. This study aimed to compare the dental status of 12‐yr‐olds who attended private dentists with that of matched children enrolled in the SDS. Non‐enrolled 12‐yr‐olds in Perth (F– 0.8 mg/l) were identified and asked to provide background information and participate in clinical examinations. Each non‐enrolled participant was matched with a classmate of the same sex. Of 184 non‐enrolled children, 100 actually participated. Data on caries experience (DMFT and DMFS), fissure sealants and gingival health (CPITN) were collected by clinical examination. Analyses used Wilcoxon's signed rank, categorical and t‐tests and simple linear regression. Caries prevalence was lower in non‐enrolled children (0.31) than in enrolled (0.47). Caries experience was also lower in non‐enrolled children (mean DMFT 0.71 vs. 0.95, ns). Enrolled children had more FT than non‐enrolled (Wilcoxon, P = 0.059) but the mean number of DT in each group was 0.14. Enrolled children had somewhat fewer fissure sealants than non‐enrolled children but in enrolled children there was an apparent (P = 0.056) inverse relationship between number of fissure sealants and DMFT scores; this was not the case in the non‐enrolled group, suggesting better targeting of fissure sealants in the SDS. More than half of both groups had CPITN score 2, suggesting that gingival health was a potential problem in the children. The finding of lower caries experience in non‐enrolled children may be due to confounding by social class or other uncontrolled factors, but it may also be a consequence of more aggressive use of operative treatment among SDS clinical operators several years ago. Gingival health was a problem in both groups. Better targeted fissure sealants and more effective oral hygiene instruction for all children are indicated by the results.
Assessment of diagnostic accuracy in caries detection: an analysis of two methods
Authors: Verdonschot Emiel H. , Wenzel Ann , Bronkhorst Ewald M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The quality of a diagnostic tool for caries detection is usually evaluated by quantification of observer performance using sensitivity and specificity values calculated from data obtained from ordinal caries depth rating scales. The application of Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis has been restricted to the use of confidence rating scales. The aim of this investigation was to study the appropriateness of ROC analysis using caries depth ratings by comparing sensitivity and specificity values to parameters of diagnostic performance obtained by ROC analysis. In two recent reports, sensitivity and specificity values were utilized to express diagnostic accuracy of observer performance from specified caries diagnostic systems. The raw data from these investigations were subjected to ROC analysis in the current study. The results illustrated that ROC analysis, producing estimates of sensitivities for all specificities, yielded more comprehensive measures of diagnostic performance than single values for sensitivity and specificity. In particular, the area under the ROC curve constituted a clearly interpretable parameter representing the quality of diagnostic performance.
Oral health status of a long‐term‐care, veteran population
Authors: Weyant Robert J. , Jones Judith A. , Hobbins Melody , Niessen Linda C. , Adelson Richard , Rhyne Robert R.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates the largest, integrated health care system in the United States of America. The projected need for long‐term‐care in the VA health care system parallels an expected increase in need for care in the United States, but precedes the need for care in the general population by 25–30 yr. The VA's Office of Dentistry, in an effort to estimate the resource requirements of this swelling group of veterans, initiated in 1986–7 an oral health survey of long‐term care patients. The overall goals were to describe the oral health status of VA nursing home care units (NHCU) residents and to develop a methodology for estimating future dental health services utilization. This study describes the oral health status of the study population.

Demographic and oral health data were collected for 650 long‐term care residents of six VA NHCUs between October 1986 and July 1987. Data were collected on sociodemographic status, medical history, dental caries, periodontal diseases, oral soft tissue pathology, and the presence of dental prostheses. Caries and periodontal disease were evaluated using the United States National Institute of Dental Research Survey of Employed Adults and Seniors protocols. The oral health status of the population is described using DMF and ESI indices, the prevalence of oral lesions, levels of tooth loss, oral hygiene scores, and the status of existing dentures.

Findings show moderate levels of untreated dental caries and periodontal disease and significant tooth loss which increased with age. A need for preventive therapy, restorative dentistry, conservative periodontal therapy, and prosthodontic care was evident. Soft tissue oral pathologies were rare and frequently related to prostheses use. The subject's overall willingness for care was high. Subjects were found to have a high number of medical comorbidities, and one third of all subjects had to be excluded from the periodontal examination for medical reasons or non‐cooperation.
A retrospective analysis of the costs associated with the treatment of nursing caries in a remote Canadian aboriginal preschool population
Authors: Milnes Alan R. , Rubin Charles W. , Karpa Mark , Tate Robert
Published: May 2006

Abstract – Nursing caries is a specific form of rampant dental caries affecting the majority of preschool aboriginal children who live in the Province of Manitoba, Canada. Since the majority of these individuals live in remote regions of the province access to denial treatment is difficult, resulting in long delays in the provision of treatment and, most likely, significant morbidity associated with dental pain and oral infection. Travel to distant centres for treatment under general anesthesia by pediatric dentists has become the usual method by which treatment is provided to the majority of affected children. We believed that this was an expensive method of providing these necessary services and our purpose was to document all costs associated with the treatment of nursing caries in this population. We analyzed the records of 884 children who were treated for nursing caries between 1980 and 1988 in Manitoba and collected data for costs in the following categories: travel, lodging, medical, dental, hospital and nursing. Our results show that the remote band groups had significantly higher costs (P < 0.001) than groups which were located closer to treatment centres. The costs which accounted primarily for this significant difference were travel and medical costs associated with hospitalization and the administration of general anesthesia. Our results support the need for the redeployment of resources on the basis of regional need and the development of community‐based preventive programs and treatment programs which will significantly reduce the incidence of nursing caries in preschool Canadian aboriginal children.
Factors influencing the effectiveness of sealants – a meta‐analysis
Authors: Llodra Juan Carlos , Bravo Manuel , Delgado‐Rodriguez Miguel , Baca Pilar , Galvez Ramon
Published: May 2006

Abstract – Meta‐analysis of published studies was applied to analyze the effectiveness of fissure sealants in preventing dental caries. Studies were identified by a MEDLINE search, supplemented by a hand search of the references in the articles recovered. All articles were assessed on the basis of quality, and were combined with the Mantel‐Haenszel method. The prevented fraction in the exposed population (PF) was estimated using pooled relative risk. Heterogeneity of the effect and publication bias were also analyzed. Twenty‐four studies were included in the meta‐analysis. The overall effectiveness of autopolymerized fissure sealants was 71.36% (95% confidence interval 69.69‐72.94%). Effectiveness in preventing caries decreased with time, and increased when drinking water was fluoridated (82.69% vs 72.28%). Heterogeneity was significant in most cases, and was further studied with multiple linear regression analysis. It is concluded that autopolymerizing sealants should be used. More research is needed to compare the effectiveness of dental hygienists and dentists in applying sealants.
Mutans streptococci and caries prevalence in preschool children
Authors: Thibodeau Edward A. , O'Sullivan David M. , Tinanoff Norman
Published: May 2006

Abstract – Numerous studies have reported a correlation between mutans streptococci levels and dental caries. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between salivary mutans streptococci levels and caries in preschool children of low socioeconomic status. A total of 462 Head Start children, mean age 3.8 yr (range 2.0‐5.3 yr), were examined by the modified method of Radike. Saliva samples from 458 of these children were collected with tongue blades and impressed onto mutans streptococci selective agar. Children's mutans streptococci levels were categorized as low (0 CPU), moderate (1–50 CPU) or high (>50 CPU), and the mean dmfs was 0.40, 1.92 and 4.88, respectively. All study groups (Black, Hispanic and White) had infection rates of approximately 83%; however, 39.1% of Black children had high mutans streptococci levels compared with 28.4% of White children. Pit/fissure caries was the most prevalent disease type in children with moderate or high mutans streptococci levels, although White children in the high group had significantly less of this pattern than Blacks and Hispanics. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for the high mutans streptococci group were 91.3%, 57.5%. 69.3% and 86.3%. Results from this study indicate that differences between Black, Hispanic and While preschool children may influence caries activity within populations that have similar mutans streptococci infection levels and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Prevalence of malocclusion in high school students in Japan according to the Dental Aesthetic Index
Authors: Ansai Toshihiro , Miyazaki Hideo , Katoh Yasuhiro , Yamashita Yoshihisa , Takehara Tadamichi , Jenny Joanna
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) was used to evaluate malocclusion in Japanese high school students (n= 409, ages 15–18 yr). The purpose of this study was to obtain basic data concerning malocclusion in Japanese high school students. This study used a sample of students from randomly selected urban and rural high schools in Japan's Kyushu district. The DAI scores for urban and rural high school students, as well as the total DAI scores from these two areas were significantly higher than that of American high school students. These results showed that the number of students with an acceptable dental appearance among Japanese high school students is significantly lower than among American high school students. This indicates a higher need for orthodontic treatment among Japanese high school students.
Factors connected with alveolar bone resorption among institutionalized elderly people
Authors: de Baat Cees , Kalk Warner , Hof Martin van't
Published: May 2006

Abstract – In this socio‐dental investigation among 175 institutionalized somatically disabled edentulous elderly people correlations are described between the test subjects' degree of alveolar bone resorption, their gender and age, their duration of edentulousness, and the number of complete dentures worn. All test subjects were interviewed by dental students and clinically examined by dentists. The mandibular alveolar bone resorption was significantly stronger in women than in men and stronger in people who had been edentulous longer. The longer the test subjects had been edentulous and the greater their degree of mandibular alveolar bone resorption was, the more mandibular dentures they had worn. This study among institutionalized elderly people provides for the most part the same results as a previously presented study among much younger people. Obviously, in these respects there are no differences between these groups.
Mouth dryness as reported by older Floridians
Authors: Gilbert Gregg H. , Heft Marc W. , Duncan R. Paul
Published: May 2006

Abstract –Thirty‐nine percent of 600 community‐dwelling older Floridians (mean age of 78 yr) reported having mouth dryness. Seventy‐nine percent of respondents reported at least one medical condition, 57% were taking at least one prescribed or over‐the‐counter medication, and 33% were taking at least one potentially xerostomic medication. Reported mouth dryness was highly associated with the number of potentially xerostomic medications. After stratification by medication usage, age, diabetes, arthritis, perceived medical health, and dependence in physical functioning were significantly associated with mouth dryness. Persons with dry mouth were also more likely to have reported dental symptoms, signs of dental disease, sensory changes, and other oral symptoms. Ten percent of those who reported mouth dryness also said that their mouths felt dry when eating a meal, 10% said that they had difficulties swallowing foods, and 15% of persons with dry mouth also said that the amount of saliva in their mouths was too little. Sixty‐five percent of persons with dry mouth reported doing one or more dryness‐related behaviors. These results suggest that the prevalence of xerostomia was high, and the impact of dry mouth on individuals’daily behaviors was significant.
Factors affecting caries experience in French adolescents
Authors: Tubert‐Jeannin Stéphanie , Lardon Jean‐Pierre , Pham Emmanuel , Martin Jean‐Louis
Published: May 2006

Abstract– Three hundred French 14–15‐yr‐old adolescents were randomly selected. They were examined clinically and caries experience was determined by using the DMFS index. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate children's habits using a self‐administered questionnaire, to clarify the actual influence of well‐known factors such as fluoride exposure, diet, oral hygiene and socioeconomic factors on caries experience and to stress those factors of primary importance. A multiple regression analysis revealed the variables which significatively contributed to explain DMFS scores in a final model: Age, sex, frequency of sweet consumption, use of standard or high fluoride toothpastes, bleeding during toothbrushing, living in St Yorre (F–=0.45 mg/1). At at time when caries experience is decreasing, it seems that fluoride supply, snacking and oral hygiene are still independent and significant determinants of caries experience in French adolescents.
Age and order of eruption of primary teeth in Spanish children
Authors: Ramirez Olga , Planells Paloma , Barberia Elena
Published: May 2006

Abstract – A longitudinal study on primary tooth eruption was performed in 114 Spanish children in two Primary Care Centers over 3 yr. Data from periodic observations and data collected by previously instructed parents was studied. Ages of tooth eruption were calculated for both sexes. Comparison between the two sides of the jaws showed a nonsignificant tendency towards earlier left side eruption. Comparison between maxillary and mandibular showed a significant earlier mandibular eruption for central incisors and second molars and a significant earlier maxillary eruption for lateral incisors. Comparison between sexes showed a tendency towards earlier eruption in boys for all teeth, significant only for mandibular central incisors, maxillary and mandibular lateral incisors and mandibular canines. Order of tooth eruption and its most frequent changes were also studied. When these findings were compared to studies performed in other populations it was concluded that ages and order of primary tooth eruption in Spanish children are similar to those found in other populations.
Evaluation of an area‐based measure as an indicator of inequalities in oral health
Authors: Locker David , Ford John
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The literature on inequalities in health provides convincing evidence that lower socioeconomic groups have poor oral health when compared to higher socioeconomic groups. Since conventional measures of socioeconomic status such as occupation, income and education have a number of weaknesses which may limit their ability to describe and explain health inequalities, alternatives in the form of area‐based measures are increasingly being used. In this paper, a conventional measure, household income, and an area‐based measure of socioeconomic status arc compared in terms of their ability to identify inequalities in oral health. The data used in the analysis were taken from a telephone interview survey of the oral health of older adults in the province of Ontario, Canada. While household income proved to be a marginally better predictor of these inequalities than the area‐based measure, the latter had a number of distinct advantages from an epidemiological and planning perspective. Moreover, it identified variations in measures of oral health that were independent of household income, and the region of the province in which subjects lived.
Multifactorial modeling for root caries prediction: 3‐year follow‐up results
Authors: Scheinin Arje , Pienihäkkinen Kaisu , Tiekso Jaakko , Holmberg Stig , Fukuda Masaomi , Suzuki Akira
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The study was part of a series aiming at the development of caries tests. The initial material (n= 104, age range 47‐79 yr, mean 62 yr) was reduced to 96, who were observed for 3 yr. During the follow‐up four subjects died, all due to myocardial infarction, and four refused to participate. Thorough oral examinations wove conducted at the baseline, I‐ and 3‐yr registrations; coronal and root surface caries were registered separately according to WHO classification. The tests included salivary mutans streptococci, lactobacilli, candida/yeasts, secretion rate, buffer effect and sucrase activity, and quantitation of visible plaque. The association between prospective root caries increment and several tests was significant. Multifactorial modeling resulted in the combination of Past Root Caries Experience (OR 12.8), Lactobacilli (OR 8.6) and Candida (OR 2.8). At screening, the criterion “two or three positive tests” of these yielded acceptable accuracy (77.1) and a relative risk of 3.3.
Enamel formation and the effects of fluoride
Authors: Limeback Hardy
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The exact biochemical events which result in enamel lesions from excess fluoride ingestion are still unknown. A number of effects of fluoride on enamel organs and on the enamel matrix components of developing teeth are, however, known. These are briefly reviewed, making reference to more recent studies. Two major influences of chronic, low‐level fluoride exposure are proposed: fluoride interferes with the processes responsible for the efficient removal of organic matrix components, resulting in protein retention and disorganized enamel crystal formation, or fluoride disrupts the activities of the enamel organ cells which indirectly interferes with normal crystal formation.
Review of fluoride exposures and ingestion
Authors: Levy Steven M.
Published: May 2006

Abstract – The literature on fluoride intake/ingestion was reviewed critically to determine the current exposure to fluorides for children living in non‐fluoridated and fluoridated areas in North America. Fluoride from all sources except mouthrinses and professionally applied topical fluorides was considered, including ingestion from foods and beverages, as well as intake from the use of fluoride dentifrice and dietary fluoride supplements. Data from all of these sources were used to produce estimates of mean daily ingestion. Studies consistently have identified substantial variation in ingestion among individuals. These analyses demonstrated that a substantial proportion of individuals had exposure or ingestion well beyond that of the mean for each source, and often 10‐20% received up to several times as much exposure as the mean. Some children probably ingest sufficient fluoride from a single source to exceed the “optimal” fluoride intake recommended from all sources, and are therefore at increased risk of fluorosis. This review highlighted the substantial variation and complexity of fluoride ingestion. Appropriate consideration of these aspects is warranted in efforts to ensure a margin of safety favoring dental caries prevention while limiting objectionable fluorosis.
Individualizing recall intervals in child dental care
Authors: Wang Nina J. , Holst Dorthe
Published: May 2006

Abstract Individualizing and extending recall intervals for children have been recommended in Norway to target resources efficiently. Recall intervals were changed for children aged 3–18 years in Drammen from 1991. Clinical time spent by dentists and dental hygienists, dental health status and length of recall intervals were registered from 1990 to 1993. For the child population, the mean recall interval changed from 12.5 to 13.7 months and the annual time spent per child was reduced by 14% from 1990–91 to 1992–93. Adjusted for the decline in number of new decayed teeth, the reduction in time spent was 11%. Children with intervals of 17 to 20 months had fewer new decayed teeth and their care required less personnel time than other children. For children with new decayed teeth, time spent for dental care was not associated with recall interval, while for children without new decayed teeth, longer recall intervals were associated with shorter time for dental care. The variation in number of decayed teeth and time spent for dental care was substantial at all intervals. Individualizing and extending recall intervals to some extent targeted resources at children with more dental disease. However, in the short run, inequality in dental health persisted. Limited extension of recall intervals did not interrupt the long‐term trend toward better dental health in the children and substantial resources were saved in the dental services.
Dentists' attitudes toward frustrating patient visits: relationship to satisfaction and malpractice complaints
Authors: Mellor Anthony C. , Milgrom Peter
Published: May 2006

Abstract A 22‐item questionnaire measuring physician frustration in communicating with patients was adapted to dentists, and its reliability and validity assessed, in a sample of 289 English dental surgeons in general practice in Greater Manchester. Subscales were derived assessing the concepts of unpleasant dentist feelings, lack of communication, patient non‐compliance, patient control, and practice or organization with Cronbach's alpha ranging from 0.59 to 0.77. Three of five sub‐scale scores (unpleasant feelings, lack of communication, and practice organization) were significantly greater for dentists who had official malpractice complaints to insurers. Similarly, all five subscores were greater for dentists who reported larger numbers of unsatisfactory visits and expressed greater dissatisfaction with dental practice.
Prevalence study of oral mucosal lesions in a selected Cambodian population
Authors: Ikeda Noriaki , Handa Yujiro , Khim So Po , Durward Callum , Axéll Tony , Mizuno Teruhisa , Fukano Hideo , Kawai Tsuyoshi
Published: May 2006

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of oral mucosal lesions in a selected Cambodian population to obtain pilot data useful in planning an oral health data base for the country. Due to unstable conditions in Cambodia, the validity of population data related to present census information is highly questionable. Therefore, prior to this investigation a census registration was carried out using local health workers as registrars in nine villages of a commune. In the period July 4–31, 1991, a total of 1319 individuals (953 women, 366 men, 15–99 yr) were examined by one oral surgeon in the nine villages of Kok Trop Commune. Kandal Stung District, southwest of the capital Phnom Penh. Clinical diagnoses were based on WHO criteria. Information on smoking habits, betel nut chewing habits, and alcohol use was collected by 4 Khmer dental personnel. In total, 71 lesions were recorded in 64 (4.9%) individuals. Leukoplakia was found in 1.1%, lichen lesions in 1.8%, candidosis in 1.4%, submucous fibrosis in 0.2%, cancer in 0.1%) and other diagnoses in 0.8%. The prevalence of leukoplakia was 2.2% and 0.6% among men and women respectively, a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). There were significantly more smokers (P < 0.01) among subjects with leukoplakia (64.3%) than among those without this lesion (28.6%). All subjects with lichen lesions were women. The age‐adjusted relative risk for developing lichen among betel nut chewers as compared to non‐chewers was 3.3. This study has provided information on epidemiological aspects of oral mucosal lesions, including the relationship to etiological factors such as tobacco smoking and betel nut chewing, which might prove valuable in planning future oral health studies and implementing preventive programmes in Cambodia.
Conformational Analysis, Solvent-Accessible Surface and Geometric Extent of Inhibitors and Substrates
Authors: Froeyen Matheus , De Winter Hans , Herdewijn Piet
Published: May 2006

Peptide ligands are known to often bind in an extended conformation to maximize the contact surface with the receptor. The complementarity of shape and surface is a very important factor contributing to the stability of a ligand receptor complex. In this communication we try to answer the following questions: What is the influence of conformation on the surface area? Do ligands maximize their contact surface with the receptor to increase stability of the complex?
Synthesis of Novel Conformationally Locked Carbocyclic Nucleosides Derived from 3-(Hydroxymethyl)bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane-2,5-diol
Authors: Hřebabecký Hubert , Masojídková Milena , Dračínský Martin , Holý Antonín
Published: May 2006

(1R*,2R*,3R*,4R*,5R*,6S*)-3-Amino-5-(benzyloxy)-6-(hydroxymethyl)bicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-ol (18) was prepared in seven easy steps from benzyl (1R*,2S*,3S*,4S*)-3-(benzyloxy)bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-ene-2-carboxylate (10). Reaction of amine18with ethylN-((2E)-3-ethoxymethacryloyl)carbamate afforded 1-[(1R*,2R*,3R*,4R*,5S*,6R*)-6-(benzyloxy)-3-hydroxy-5- (hydroxymethyl)bicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-yl]-5-methylpyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione (21) and after deprotection by transfer hydrogenation, free thymine analogue22. The thymine derivative21was converted to 2,3'-anhydronucleoside26. Treatment of the benzyl derivative18with sodium in liquid ammonia led to amine19, which was used as key intermediate for the construction of (1R*,2R*,3R*,4R*,5R*,6S*)-3-(6-chloro-9H-purin-9-yl)-6-(hydroxymethyl)-bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane-2,5-diol (28) and (1R*,2R*,3R*,4R*,5R*,6S*)-3-(2-amino-6-chloro-9H-purin-9-yl)-6-(hydroxymethyl)bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane-2,5-diol (33). Ammonolysis of28led to 6-amino-9H-purine derivative29. 6-(Dimethylamino)-9H-purine analogue30and 6-(cyclopropylamino)-9H-purine analogues31and34were prepared by aminolysis of corresponding chloropurine derivatives.