bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral health‐related quality of life of children with neutropenia
Authors: Cheretakis Chrisovalantou , Locker David , Dror Yigal , Glogauer Michael
Published: March 2008

This study evaluated the oral health‐related quality of life (OHQoL) in children with neutropenia. Twenty‐seven children with neutropenia were compared to 33 healthy, age‐matched control subjects. Previously validated age‐specific, multidimensional and self‐reporting child OHQoL questionnaires were used. Overall and subscale scores were compared between the two groups. Respondents in the group of children with neutropenia reported that their disease had a significant impact on their oral health in terms of oral symptoms (p<0.0001), functional limitations (p<0.0001), and social well‐being (p<0.0001). In global ratings, they rated their oral health to be markedly worse than that of the healthy subjects (p<0.0001). However, there was no difference between the groups in the extent to which their oral condition affected their lives overall. These results, along with responses to individual measures of social and emotional well‐being, suggest that children in this group with neutropenia have psychologically adapted to the oral health challenges they experience because of their condition.
A child with 18p‐syndrome: a case report
Authors: Naudi Antoniella Busuttil , Fung Diane E.
Published: March 2008

18p‐ syndrome is caused by the deletion of all or a portion of genetic material on the short (p) arm of chromosome 18. It was first described in 1963 and since then there have been a variety of clinical characteristics associated with this syndrome. The patient described presented with learning difficulties, epilepsy, a characteristic round face and anti‐mongoloid slant to the eyes. Orally he had a single maxillary central incisor and a high caries rate which necessitated comprehensive dental treatment under general anesthesia.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy — a dental healthcare program
Authors: Mielnik‐Blaszczak Prof. Maria , Malgorzata Borowska
Published: March 2008

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetically determined disease. The chief characteristic of this clinical syndrome is a progressive degeneration of particular groups of muscles. Initially there is physical impairment, contractures, and muscular atrophy. Subsequently, the disease immobilizes the patient (ages 9 to 14 years) and severe respiratory failure occurs due to chest and vertebral column deformity. We present principies for the dental care of patients with DMD. It is important to introduce dental and prophylactic treatment at a very early age for children with DMD.
A review of the oral health of individuais with disabilities in Puerto Rico and among U.S. Hispanics
Authors: Waldman H. Barry , Perlman Steven P. , dei Valle Lydia M. Lopez
Published: March 2008

More than 51 million U.S. civilian noninstitutionalized residents have some form of long‐lasting disability, including almost 1 million residents of Puerto Rico. The goal of this report is to review available data in an effort to stimulate recognition of the oral health needs of Puerto Rican residents with disabilities.

The authors conducted a review using a series of U.S. Census Bureau reports to develop comparative relationships between Puerto Rican residents, the total U.S. population and the total U.S. Hispanic population. The review compared the proportion of these groups with disabilities, the proportion of the population who live below the poverty threshold, and oral health status.

The review of available government and private agency data for the general population indicates that the percentage of Puerto Rican residents with disabilities is greater than the percentage of the total U.S. population and the total U.S. Hispanic population. In addition, compared to the total U.S. population, a greater percentage of total U.S. Hispanic children is living in poverty, has unmet dental needs, is uninsured for health services, and has not visited dentists for extended periods. Particulariy limited information is available regarding the oral health needs and services for Puerto Rican residents with disabilities.

It is essential for future government and private agency surveys and reports to emphasize the economic status of the Puerto Rican population, recognize the distribution of particular disabilities among the various racial/ethnic populations, and increase general attention to the oral health of the residents of Puerto Rico with specific concerns regarding individuals with disabilities.
The use of stock fluoride trays in the management of soft tissue trauma in children who are comatose
Authors: Lindemeyer Rochelle G.
Published: March 2008

Pediatric patients who are comatose may develop a neuropathological chewing or clenching reflex that results in self‐inflicted injury to the soft tissues of the oral cavity. An early and quick response to these problems may minimize the extent of soft tissue trauma. The use of a stock fluoride tray in the hospital management of a pediatric patient who was neurologically impaired and unconsciously traumatizing his oral soft tissues is described. This treatment modality may serve as an initial or interim device in managing pediatric patients with uncoordinated mandibular movements or clenching. In some instances, given the sometimes self‐limiting nature of this problem, fluoride trays may serve as the sole mode of treatment.
Fitting complete dentures after multiple tooth extraction in a patient with severe dementia
Authors: Fujisawa Toshiaki , Yokoyama Atsuro , Muramatsu Masumi , Kimura Yukifumi , Kurozumi Akihiro , Kobayashi Ichizo , Sano Hidehiko , Totsuka Yasunori , Fukushima Kazuaki
Published: March 2008

Complete dentures were constructed after tooth extraction for a 71 ‐year‐old uncommunicative patient with Alzheimer's disease. Although she had never previously used them, her husband requested the fitting of complete maxillary and mandibular dentures. Thirteen teeth were extracted under local anesthesia and intravenous sedation (IVS), followed by impression‐making under IVS. Denture fabrication and adjustment were carried out under mild physical restraint. A tissue conditioner was applied to the fitting surface of the denture base followed by regular denture adjustments. The time required for the patient to eat a meal decreased from 90 minutes without dentures to 30 minutes with dentures due to an improvement in swallowing. Important factors in the successful fitting and use of dentures in this patient were the use of IVS to control behavior during treatment, the treatment plan focused on painless denture use, and oral care by the patient's husband.
Eagle's syndrome masquerading as pain of dental origin. Case report
Authors: Aral I. Levent , Karaca I. , Güngör N.
Published: March 2008

Eagle's syndrome, also known as elongated styloid process, is a condition that may be the source of craniofacial and cervical pain. It is infrequently reported but is probably more common than generally considered. The symptoms related to Eagle's syndrome can be confused with those attributed to a wide variety of facial neuralgias and/or oral, dental and TMJ diseases. In this paper, a case of Eagle's syndrome masquerading as pain of dental origin is presented and the literature is reviewed.
Effect of tooth‐related factors on the shear bond strengths obtained with CO2 laser conditioning of enamel
Authors: Shahabi S. , Brockhurst P. J. , Walsh L. J.
Published: March 2008

Carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers are capable of producing surface irregularities in human enamel which resemble those resulting from etching of enamel with orthophosphoric acid. This report presents the results of a laboratory study which examined the effect of selected tooth‐related variables on shear bond strength between a current generation bonding agent (Scotchbond MultiPurpose) and acid‐etched or laser‐conditioned human enamel. There were no significant differences in shear bond strength between human maxillary central incisor teeth, first premolars, and third molars in either the acid etch or laser‐conditioned groups. Polishing of enamel to give a flat surface increased the shear bond strength obtained with acid etching, but did not alter significantly bond strengths achieved with laser conditioning. There was a tendency for a higher bond strength with acid etching, but not with laser conditioning, in porcine molar enamel compared with human molar and bovine incisor enamel. In terms of the mode of operation of the laser, the repetitively pulsed mode resulted in a two‐fold improvement in shear bond strength compared with the single pulse mode. These results indicate that shear bond strengths in the order of 10 MPa can be obtained reliably on human teeth using laser conditioning with pulsed modes in the absence of any other preparation of the natural enamel surface.
Medical emergencies in dental practice and choice of emergency drugs and equipment: A survey of Australian dentists
Authors: Chapman P. J.
Published: March 2008

This is a report of a postal questionnaire survey of 1250 general dental practitioners regarding occurrence of medical emergencies and their choice of emergency drugs and equipment. The response rate was 65 per cent and the results showed that about one in seven practitioners had had to resuscitate a patient. The most common medical emergencies were adverse reactions to local anaesthetics, grand mal seizures, angina pectoris and hypoglycaemia (insulin shock). Nearly all respondents (96 per cent) believed that dentists need to be competent in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, just over a half (55 per cent) felt they were competent in CPR on graduation and a similar, figure (57 per cent) felt they could perform effective single person CPR for five minutes. Almost twothirds (64 per cent) had undertaken CPR courses since graduation. Additionally, the most commonly kept emergency drugs were oxygen (63 per cent) and adrenaline (22 per cent), while the most commonly kept emergency equipment was a manual resuscitator (recoil bag‐valve‐mask type) which was kept by 27 per cent of the practitioners.
Analysis of workplace injuries in a dental school environment
Authors: McDonald R. I. , Walsh L. J. , Savage N. W.
Published: March 2008

Workplace injuries at the University of Queensland Dental School during the period 1992–1994 were assessed to determine their incidence, and the associated indirect costs, causal factors, and appropriate preventive strategies. Overall, dental chairside assistants experienced a higher incidence of injuries than students both on a per worker and per time basis. Of the injuries with a low risk of cross‐infection, burns and scalds from sterilizing equipment, and eye injuries in laboratories were the most common. This emphasizes the importance of wearing appropriate protective equipment in areas outside the treatment zone, and the need for signage and education. Common causes of sharps injuries were burs left in handpieces, two‐handed needle recapping, and cleaning of probes in the sterilizing room. Changes to techniques and equipment would prevent such incidents. A range of factors which contribute to the calculation of indirect costs following injuries in the dental workplace are identified.
Incidence of inflammation in completely impacted lower third molars
Authors: Yamaoka Minoru , Tambo Akihiro , Furusawa Kiyofumi
Published: March 2008

The influence of ageing and the contact of the adjacent tooth on purulent inflammation associated with the completely impacted lower third molar was assessed in 26 patients with clinical symptoms of infection out of 800 patients who had roentgenographically‐confirmed completely impacted lower third molars. These 26 patients were 23 years of age or older. The 9 with pain alone ranged from 25 to 44 years of age, whereas the 17 patients with inflammation ranged from 29 to 67 years of age, and non‐contact to adjacent tooth was associated with purulent inflammation in older patients, indicating completely impacted lower third molars may cause pain only until 45 years of age; but purulent inflammation occurs even in the group of non‐contact to adjacent tooth after 45 years of age. The authors recommend that a completely impacted lower third molar should be removed if the risk factors of advanced age and contact with the adjacent tooth are present.
Riga‐Fedes syndrome: Natal or neonatal teeth associated with tongue ulceration. Case report
Authors: Buchanan Susan , Jenkins Christopher R.
Published: March 2008

A case of natal teeth associated with traumatic ulceration to the ventral surface of the tongue (Riga‐Fedes syndrome) in a four week old boy is presented. On radiographic examination, two teeth, present at birth, were found to be early erupted deciduous lower central incisors. A family history of natal teeth, all involving both lower deciduous central incisors associated with trauma to the tongue during suckling, was elicited. The ulceration healed over a period of four weeks using an innovative conservative treatment regime, involving the use of Stomahesive Wafer. Four months later the only sign of any previous pathosis was a fibrous scar on the ventral surface of the tongue.
Enamel demineralization during orthodontic treatment. Aetiology and prevention
Authors: Chang H. S. , Walsh L. J. , Freer T. J.
Published: March 2008

The aetiology of enamel demineralization during fixed orthodontic treatment and its sequelae are discussed. A summary is given of the various methods available to assess the risk of demineralization prior to active treatment. The best preventive strategy would appear to be an assessment of risk factors prior to banding, coupled with fluoride rinses, regular reinforcement of oral hygiene, and dietary advice throughout the course of treatment.
An evaluation of bond strengths of denture repair resins by a torsional method
Authors: Thean H. P. Y. , Chew C. L. , Goh K. I. , Norman R. D.
Published: March 2008

Chemical cure resin materials are generally used in the repair of dentures. Different repair resins used may yield different results. The bond strength of three autopolymerizing resins were evaluated using a torsional test method. The results showed that Palapress and Caulk resins had a higher repair strength than Rapid Repair resin.
A case of chronic severe neutropenia: Oral findings and consequences of short‐term granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor treatment
Authors: Hastürk Hatice , Tezcan Ilhan , Yel Leman , Ersoy Fügen , Sanal Özden , Yamalik Nermin , Berker Ezel
Published: March 2008

Neutropenia is an absolute decrease in the number of circulating neutrophils in the blood which results in susceptibility to severe pyogenic infections. Various oral findings such as periodontitis, alveolar bone loss and ulceration may be seen in neutropenic patients. A case is presented of a 6 year old girl with chronic, probably congenital, severe neutropenia with frequent respiratory tract infections, recurrent oral ulcerations and significant periodontal breakdown resembling prepubertal periodontitis. She was given granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF) treatment which resulted in an increase in granulocyte count within two weeks and resolution of the neutropenic ulceration. It is suggested that G‐CSF together with dental care regimens is a promising treatment model in chronic severe neutropenia cases presenting with oral manifestations.
Minocycline and oral pigmentation
Authors: Cockings Josephine M. , Savage Neil W.
Published: March 2008

Minocycline is a semisynthetic tetracycline used in the treatment of inflammatory acne because of its broad spectrum of activity, less common development of resistant organisms, and its anti‐inflammatory effects. A number of adverse reactions are reported, including skin and oral pigmentation. This paper details the pharmacology of minocycline and describes the pigmentation and likely mechanisms active in both hard and soft tissues. Oral pigmentation usually involves the hard tissues only and presents typically as a discrete band occupying the central zone of the alveolar mucosa and palate. As with other sites, it may persist following withdrawal of the drug. Early recognition by the dental practitioner may allow an alternative form of therapy to be sought, minimizing the likelihood of a longterm aesthetic problem.
Reducing the incidence of unerupted palatally displaced canines by extraction of deciduous canines. The history and application of this procedure with some case reports
Authors: Jacobs Stanley G.
Published: March 2008

The procedure of extracting the deciduous canine to reduce the incidence of the unerupted palatally displaced canine was first described in 1951, and an article solely devoted to the technique appeared in 1959. The procedure then virtually vanished until 1981. A prospective study published in 1988 created the first widespread interest in the method which now appears in major texts. Why the procedure succeeds is uncertain. In the 1950s nonresorption of the deciduous canine was thought to cause palatal deflection of its successor and therefore it appeared appropriate to extract the obstructing deciduous tooth. It has been estimated that the technique should be successful in approximately one in three of all cases in the population aged 10 to 13 years. The earlier the detection the better the prognosis, because the unerupted canine frequently moves more mesially with time. Before the procedure is attempted it is important to discuss possible outcomes with the patient. Three successfully treated cases are illustrated. The first conformed with the guidelines of having an uncrowded maxillary arch and being aged between 10 and 13 years. The second was aged 15 years 2 months at commencement. An unsuccessful surgical exposure of the permanent canines followed by extraction of the deciduous canines was carried out in the third case.
Candida‐associated denture stomatitis. Aetiology and management: A review: Part1. Factors influencing distribution of candida species in the oral cavity
Authors: Webb B. C. , Thomas C. J. , Willcox M. D. P. , Harty D. W. S. , Knox K. W.
Published: March 2008

Candida species are yeasts and within the oral cavity, Candida albicans is the most frequently isolated. There is clear evidence that C. albicans adheres to oral surfaces including acrylic dentures and mucosa. The mechanisms of attachment differ, with candidal adhesion to inert surfaces under the control of hydrophobic and electrostatic forces and adhesion to mucosa dependent on a number of complex ligand‐recognition systems. Other factors within the oral environment such as saliva, pH, bacteria and hyphal formation have been shown to influence adhesion of candida species to surfaces in the mouth.
Identification of stroke prone patients by panoramic radiography
Authors: Friedlander Arthur H. , Friedlander Ida Kreinik
Published: March 2008

Stroke (cerebrovascular accident, CVA) is the third leading cause of death and an important cause of hospital admission and long term disability in Australia. Atherosclerotic lesions at the bifurcation of the common carotid artery are the most common cause of stroke. On occasion these lesions are partially calcified and visible on a conventional panoramic dental radiograph. The atheroma may appear either as a nodular radiopaque mass or as two radiopaque vertical lines within the soft tissues of the neck at the level of the lower margin of the third cervical vertebra (C3). These opacities are separate and distinct from the hyoid bone and variably appear above or below it. Dentists should scrupulously review the panoramic radiographs of all individuals over age 55 with medical histories of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesteraemia and coronary artery disease, or whose behaviour includes smoking, ethanol abuse, or dietary indiscretion coupled with overweight and a sedentary lifestyle which are known to be associated with atherosclerosis and stroke.
Chondrosarcoma of the maxilla. Case report
Authors: Anil S. , Beena V. T. , Lal P. M. , Varghese Bobby J.
Published: March 2008

Chondrosarcoma is a rare malignant neoplasm of the jaws. The diagnosis of this lesion is mainly based on the histopathological appearance. A case of chondrosarcoma of the maxilla is reported. The origin of this rare tumour in the maxilla, a bone with exclusive membranous ossification, is discussed.
The effect of the mismatch between the core diameter of self‐threading dentine pins and the pinhole diameter
Authors: Bione H. M. , Wilson P. R.
Published: March 2008

This laboratory study incorporated the use of three different sized twist drills to prepare pinholes in extracted upper molar teeth. The diameter of each pinhole was measured. A pre‐measured selfthreading pin was then placed in each pinhole. The amount of strain created during pin placement (placement strain), the temperature rise during pin placement, the amount of strain remaining (residual strain) within the tooth structure after pin placement and the removal force (retention) were recorded for each pin.

The results showed that, during the placement of a self‐threading dentine pin, the difference between the pincore diameter and the pinhole diameter was an important parameter. This difference determined the amount of strain created during pin placement, the temperature rise during pin placement, the amount of strain remaining within the tooth structure after pin placement and the retention of the pin. The placement strain, temperature rise, residual strain and retention were all greater when the pin core diameter exceeded the pin hole diameter.
Sodium hypochlorite and its use as an endodontic irrigant
Authors: Clarkson Roger M. , Moule Alex J.
Published: March 2008

Sodium hypochlorite has been used as an endodontic irrigant for more than 70 years, and is now one of the most common solutions for this purpose. The chemical properties and production of commercial sodium hypochlorite are reviewed. Domestic bleaches and an infant sanitizer are compared from the point of view of cost and ease of use—Milton being recommended where a 1% solution is required. The cost of syringes and needles for endodontic irrigation is many times greater than the hypochlorite they contain, and total annaul practice costs for hypochlorite are low. Brief quidelines for clinical use, storage, handling and disposal are included.
Comparison of health behaviour and oral/medical conditions in non‐insulin‐dependent (type II) diabetics and non‐diabetics
Authors: Kawamura Makoto , Fukuda Setsuko , Kawabata Kunio , Iwamoto Yoshifumi
Published: March 2008

One hundred and two dentate patients with type II diabetes mellitus and 98 non‐diabetic subjects were examined for oral conditions and metabolic state. Self‐reported health behaviour was analysed. From factor analysis four factors emerged: general health behaviour (GHB), perceived fatigue (PF), diet control (DC) and regular diet (RD). In diabetics PF, DC and RD were significantly higher than that in non‐diabetics. Patients with diabetes were more likely to control their disease through a programme of decreased kilojoule intake leading to weight management. However, they tended to tire. The mean gingivitis index was significantly higher (p<0.01) among diabetics (2.39) than among nondiabetics (1.99). The number of missing teeth was significantly higher (p<0.01) for diabetics (6.7) when compared with non‐diabetics (4.3). On the other hand, aetiological factors (plaque, calculus) and the level of dental health behaviour as expressed in the HU‐DBI scores were similar. Probing pocket depth did not differ statistically between groups. The increasing number of missing teeth in diabetics may primarily result from severe periodontitis with tooth mobility or deep pockets. Findings in this study suggest that the difference in the severity of periodontitis between diabetics and non‐diabetics was significant although aetiological factors and the level of dental health behaviour were similar.
Dermal psoriasis involving an oral split‐skin graft. case report
Authors: Dimitrakopoulos Ioannis , Lazaridis Nikolas , Scordalaki Anna
Published: March 2008

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease which very rarely affects the oral cavity. It has many forms of expression on cutaneous and mucosal surfaces. This paper describes an unusual case of psoriasis with oral involvement affecting the skin graft used to reconstruct an oral mucosal defect. Diagnosis was based on clinical and microscopic findings and confirmed by the concurrent cutaneous disease.
Service provision trends between 1983–84 and 1993–94 in Australian private general practice
Authors: Brennan David , Spencer A. John , Szuster Fearnley
Published: March 2008

Patterns of service provision are expected to change over time, reflecting the dynamics of factors such as oral health status and trends in population demographics. The aim of this study was to identify trends in service provision over time. Data were collected from a random sample of Australian dentists in 1983–84, 1988–89, and 1993–94. Changes observed between 1983–84 and 1993–94 included a trend towards increased proportions of patients in older age groups, restorative care (from 40.2 per cent to 37.7 per cent) and prosthodontic care (9.3 per cent to 8.0 per cent) and increases in diagnostic (from 38.7 per cent to 46.0 per cent), preventive (20.9 per cent to 7.1 per cent), and crown and bridge services (3.1 per cent to 4.7 per cent) per visit. Other services such as orthodontic and general/miscellaneous services showed increases over the first half of the study period, but these did not continue between 1988–89 and 1993–94. The total number of services per visit increased over the study period for adult patients. These findings indicate changing patterns of practice over time, consistent with an increasing orientation towards prevention of disease and maintenance of a natural dentition.
Computer generated mandibular model: Surgical role
Authors: Abbott John R. , Netherway David J. , Wingate P. G. , Abbott Amanda H. , David David J. , Trott James A. , Yuen T.
Published: March 2008

A life‐size nylon model of a traumatized mandible was produced from CT scan data by the process of laser sintering.

The model was used for pre‐operative planning and for production of surgical aids in order to facilitate the restoration of a large bony defect.

Vascularized iliac crest bone was harvested, titanium implants placed and the bone then grafted to the mandible.
Fibrous dysplasia of the jaw bone: A review of 15 new cases and two cases of recurrence in Jamaica together with a case report
Authors: Ogunsalu C. , Smith N. J. D. , Lewis A.
Published: March 2008

The authors reviewed 15 new cases of fibrous dysplasia of the jaw bone and two cases of recurrence seen in Jamaica between 1980 and 1995. Only cases which had a histological confirmation of fibrous dysplasia were included. The clinical behaviour and radiological findings of these cases were studied from the case files, either at the Cornwall Regional Hospital or the Kingston Public Hospital in Jamaica.
Root morphology of the maxillary first premolar in Singaporeans
Authors: Loh H. S.
Published: March 2008

Extracted teeth were collected from clinical procedures performed in the Faculty of Dentistry, National University of Singapore. A selected sample of 957 maxillary first premolars were subjected to visual examination and digital radiography. There was a higher incidence of two‐root form (50.6 per cent) than previously reported for the Singaporean dentition. In the two‐root category, 307 teeth exhibited the fused‐root form (two fused roots with two root canals) and 177 were distinctively of the two‐root form (two separate roots with two root canals and two foramina). The fused‐root form was emphasized as an entity in this study. The one‐root form accounted for 49.4 per cent. No three‐root form was detected.
Pain description and severity of chronic orofacial pain conditions
Authors: Vickers E. Russell , Cousins Michael J. , Woodhouse Annie
Published: March 2008

A multidisciplinary pain centre study of 120 consecutive chronic orofacial pain patients assessed pain description and intensity ratings, gender differences, prevalence of concurrent conditions, and interinstrument relationships of the McGill Pain Questionnaire and visual analogue scale. Pain words chosen by patients to describe conditions were predominantly sensory words, and patients with concurrent conditions often listed words indicating a substantial affective component. Results showed pain intensity ratings of chronic orofacial pain conditions have similar or higher pain ratings when compared with other medical chronic pain conditions such as back pain, cancer pain and arthritis. There was a significantly higher female: male ratio (88:32) with gender playing an important but poorly understood causal role. The most frequent condition diagnosed was atypical facial pain (n=40), followed by temporomandibular disorder (n=32), atypical odontalgia (n=29) and pathology of the orofacial region (n=19). Temporomandibular disorder was present in 75 of the 120 subjects, as the sole pain complaint (n=32) or as an associated secondary condition (n=43), indicating concurrent pain conditions exist and may be related. There were significantly higher total pain scores of the McGill Pain Questionnaire in patients with multiple conditions compared with patients with a single condition. The visual analogue scale showed a significant correlation to the number of words chosen index of the McGill Pain Questionnaire for orofacial pain.
Current concepts in oral cancer
Authors: Sugerman Philip B. , Savage Neil W.
Published: March 2008

Over 750 new intra‐oral squamous cell carcinomas are registered in Australia each year. In this article, the authors review the epidemiology, aetiology, genetics and spread of intra‐oral squamous cell carcinoma. The mechanisms of field cancerization are discussed. The prevention of intra‐oral squamous cell carcinoma is highlighted and future treatments are presented.
Dye‐assisted diode laser ablation of carious enamel and dentine
Authors: McNally Karen M. , Gillings Barrie R. D. , Dawes Judith M.
Published: March 2008

Carious dentine and enamel from extracted human teeth were ablated using a semiconductor diode laser in conjunction with an applied dye, indocyanine green. This technique offers selective ablation with minimal risk of thermal damage to surrounding dental tissues because uptake of the dye and its irradiation by the laser together control the ablation.

In this study, various laser powers and dye concentrations were used to ablate previously extracted human teeth with moderate caries. The mass of material ablated and the temperature rise in the pulp and at the surface were recorded, and the ablated surface was examined by microscopy. The ablation was efficient and the rise in the pulp temperature slight. Ablation efficiency and surface temperature were both found to increase with laser irradiance and with dye concentration. No surface cracks or fissures were seen in electron microscope examination and the hardness of the laser‐treated surfaces was comparable to that of healthy tissue.

The dye‐assisted laser ablation technique offers considerable potential for clinical caries removal and dentine, enamel and pulp sterilization, whilst leaving healthy tissue intact. The diode laser can deliver its energy via simple optical fibre and is cheaper and much smaller than the conventional high power lasers used in other studies.
Public knowledge of the prevention of dental decay and gum diseases
Authors: Roberts‐Thompson Kaye F. , Spencer A. John
Published: March 2008

In 1992, a mail survey was conducted among South Australians aged 10 years and older to assess the knowledge of prevention of dental caries and gum diseases and to explore its variation by sociodemographic factors. The survey provided 838 completed questionnaires. Questions were asked on perceptions of importance of a number of preventive measures, the main purpose of water fluoridation and sources of information.

Respondents rated four myths for preventing dental caries as the most important: 97 per cent rated regular tooth brushing; 87 per cent rated regular dental visits; 85 per cent rated calcium in the diet; and 78 per cent rated eating fibrous foods as definitely or probably important. Only 56 per cent of respondents rated drinking water with fluoride as definitely or probably important for preventing dental caries, and only half (50.2 per cent) identified the main purpose of water fluoridation as the prevention of decay. Respondents rated regular tooth brushing (96 per cent) and regular dental visits (87 per cent) as important for the prevention of gum diseases. However, the myth of massaging the gums was rated as important by 67 per cent. Higher percentages of females, older adults and those with lower educational attainment rated the myths for preventing caries as important. Younger people were less able to specify the main purpose for fluoridation of water supplies. The persistence of myths and the low rating of the importance of scientifically efficacious measures are major challenges for oral health promotion.
Burkitt's lymphoma presenting as lower lip paraesthesia in a 24 year old Nigerian. Case report
Authors: Ugboko V. I. , Ndukwe K. C. , Adelusola K. A. , Durosinmi M. A.
Published: March 2008

An unusal case of stage D Burkitt's lymphoma in a 24 year old Nigerian female undergraduate is reported. There was a four month history of left lower lip paraesthesia followed three months later by a slowly progressive ‘pimple‐sized’ nodular mandibular swelling arising from the mental foramen region. A full‐blown, rapidly developing abdominal mass manifested only three weeks after a biopsy of the mandibular swelling. Aspiration of the latter and a histologic report of the mandibular mass confirmed Burkitt's lymphoma. The patient responded very well to appropriate chemotherapy. Clinicians should not overlook insidious jaw swellings in any adult residing in the endemic zone of Burkitt's lymphoma, in view of the fact that successful therapy is dependent on early diagnosis. Mental nerve paraesthesia is very rarely seen in Burkitt's lymphoma.
The effect on energy absorption of hard inserts in laminated EVA mouthguards
Authors: Westerman B. , Stringfellow P. M. , Eccleston J. A.
Published: March 2008

One of the suggestions for using laminated mouthguards is the inclusion of hard inserts to improve mouthguard performance. However, there is a paucity of published material on the use of such inserts and this study was designed to investigate this theory.

Hard layers of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) were included in laminated mouthguard sheets which were then subject to repeated impacts with an impact rig. Hard inserts resulted in reduced energy absorption when compared with a control sheet of the same material and approximate thickness but without the hard inserts.

Additionally, the further the hard inserts were located from the impact surface, the least reduction there was on energy absorption.
Facial and perioral molluscum contagiosum as a manifestation of HIV infection
Authors: Kolokotronis Alexander , Antoniades Demetrios , Katsoulidis Emmanouil , Kioses Vasilios
Published: March 2008

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a self‐limiting viral disease of the skin and the mucous membranes. Facial and perioral MC is seen with increasing frequency in human immunodeficiency (HIV) infection, particularly in HIV infected homosexual men. The purpose of this study was to describe clinical observations of facial and perioral MC in HIV infected patients.

One hundred and eighty HIV‐positive individuals (160 males and 20 females) were examined over a period of five years. Fifty‐eight were homosexual men and 19 were bisexual men. Fifty‐one of 180 patients at the time of the first examination had CD+4 count <200 cells/mm3 and another 63 presented loss of CD+4 cells in this level, during this period.

Three HIV infected patients (two homosexual and one bisexual) were affected with facial and perioral MC. At the time of MC diagnosis the CD+4 count was less than 200 cells/mm3 for all three patients. One patient died nine months after MC diagnosis and the other two are still alive. It is remarkable that in this study no clinical lesions were observed on other sites of the skin.
Preventive dentistry for the general dental practitioner
Authors: Walsh Laurence J.
Published: March 2008

Although the prevalence of dental caries has decreased gradually in the past three decades in the Australian population, dental caries remains the primary reason for tooth loss in Australia. At the communicy level, total health expenditure on the treatment of dental caries (and its consequences) is substantial. Accordingly, caries prevention is an important focus on both the individual and community levels. This paper outlines the principles upon which modern caries prevention is based and stresses the importance of manipulating the oral environment (in terms of salivary parameters, ions, pH and the oral flora) as a major strategy for effective long‐term caries prevention. Practical advice is provided on the correct home use of preventive agents, including chewing gums, chlorhexidine, fluorides, bicarbonate rinses and phosphopeptides.
Studies of dental root surface caries 2: The role of cementum in root surface caries
Authors: McIntyre J.M. , Featherstone J.D.B. , Fu J.
Published: March 2008

Artificial caries lesions were produced in roots of teeth using an acetate buffer system, when the layer of cementum was either normal in thickness, excessively thickened by hypercementosis, of had been removed completely. The rates of lesion progression were measured in each case using polarized light microscopy to measure lesion depth. Analysis of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) loss during the demineralizing process was carried out. The removal of cementum was found to significantly increase the initial rate of penetration of the lesion into the root, although this rate progressively reduced to a level consistent with that found in normal roots after seven days of demineralization. The overall depth remained consistently greater than that observed in normal roots, or when lesions were produced entirely within hyperplastic cementum. Chemical analysis also showed removal of cementum resulted in an initial doubling of the Ca and P lost from the root surface.

Prior direct exposure of segments of normal roots to the oral environment was found not to significantly alter the rate of artificial lesion progression, in comparison with that in the originally protected segment of the root surface.

It was concluded that an intact cementum layer has the intrinsic ability to protect the underlying dentine of exposed tooth roots against acidic demineralization and that prior exposure to the oral environment does not significantly alter this ability.
Hepatitis C infection and associated oral health problems
Authors: Coates E. A. , Brennan D. , Logan R. M. , Goss A. N. , Scopacasa B. , Spencer A. J. , Gorkic E.
Published: March 2008

Hepatitis C infection is widespread throughout the community. This study aimed to assess the status of oral health of persons infected with hepatitis C. DMFT and CPITN indices were recorded at a clinic providing priority dental care for people with hepatitis C infection. The data were compared with information from an existing survey of general dental patients. Social impact Profile questionnaire. The DMFT index differed significantly between hepatitis C and general patients. The number of decayed and missing teeth was greater in those infected with hepatitis C for all patients aged between 25 and 50 years. Although there was no significant difference in CPITN categories for subjects evaluated, a marked trend for poor periodontal health was noted for those individuals with hepatitis C. Salivary flow was reduced in 50 per cent of hepatitis C infected subjects. Social impact was significantly affected with 71 per cent of hepatitis C subjects reporting painful aching in the mouth and 56 per cent having difficulty in relaxing. In conclusion, the results from the project strongly indicate an urgent need for priority delivery of dental care for people with hepatitis C infection.
Temporary uniocular blindness and ophthalmoplegia associated with a mandibular block injection. A case report
Authors: Wilkie Gary J.
Published: March 2008

A mandibular block injection produced temporary uniocular blindness, total ophthalmoplegia, mydriasis, and ptosis of the eyelid, with diplopia developing as the sight returned. These effects lasted 25–30 minutes. The explanation offered as to the cause of the anaesthetic phenomenon is an intra‐arterial injection into the maxillary artery with backflow of anaesthetic solution into the middle meningeal artery. The instantaneous blindness results from the anaesthetic agent being carried into the central artery of the retina through an anastomosis of the ophthalmic and middle meningeal arteries via the recurrent meningeal branch of the lacrimal artery. Although of short duration, the symptoms mimic a more serious carotid artery embolus occluding the opthalmic artery. Complications of mandibular blocks have been reported in the literature, however total blindness and ophthalmoplegia are extremely rare. This case report highlights an event where individual anatomical variation of the maxillry and middle meningeal arteries has allowed anaesthetic solution to be delivered to an ectopic site.
Getting the most from rotational panoramic radiographs
Authors: Monsour Paul A.
Published: March 2008

Rotational panoramic radiographs have become an invaluable tool in modern dentistry. To use the full potential of this resource the entire radiograph must be examined in a systematic way to extract the great wealth of information available. This paper provides the framework for the development of a systematic method to examine panoramic radiographs. The essential elements are that all areas of the radiograph should be examined and that there are a number of high yield areas with regard to pathology that require special attention.
The environmental effects of dental amalgam
Authors: Chin G. , Chong J. , Kluczewska A. , Lau A. , Gorjy S. , Tennant M.
Published: March 2008

Dental amalgam is one of the most commonly used materials in restorative dentistry. However, one of its major components, mercury, is of particular concern due to its potential adverse effects on humans and the environment. In this review, the environmental impact of dental amalgam will be discussed, with particular reference to the effects attributed to its mercury component. Mercury commonly occurs in nature as sulfides and in a number of minerals. Globally, between 20,000–30,000 tons of mercury are discharged into the environment each year as a result of human activities. According to a recent German report, approximately 46 per cent of the freshly triturated amalgam is inserted as new amalgam restorations and the rest is waste. Depending on the presence of an amalgam separating unit, some of the generated amalgam‐contaminated sludge is discharged into the sewage system. Lost or extracted teeth with amalgam fillings and amalgam‐contaminated waste, such as trituration capsules and cotton rolls are discharged with the solid waste and, in most instances, are incinerated. Use of disinfectants containing oxidizing substances in dental aspirator kits may contribute to remobilization of mercury and its subsequent release into the environment. Nevertheless, dental mercury contamination is only a small proportion of terrestrial mercury (3–4 per cent), which is quite insignificant compared with industrial pollution and combustion of fossil fuels by vehicles. The environmental impact of dental mercury is mainly due to the poor management of dental amalgam waste. Proper collection of mercury‐contaminated solid waste prevents the release of mercury vapour during combustion. In addition, the use of amalgam separating devices reduces the amount of amalgam‐contaminated water released from dental clinics.
Orofacial prosthesis design and fabrication using stereolithography
Authors: Morris C. L. , Barber R. F. , Day R.
Published: March 2008

The use of stereolithography for the manufacture of implantable prostheses is relatively new. Until now, its use with regard to mandibular resection has been to produce pre‐operative models that allow more sophisticated planning of the contour and better preparation of the metallic framework to be implanted. This framework rejoins the sections of the mandible, returning some function, but providing no soft tissue support. Hence, the aesthetic results are not optimal. The aim of this study was to investigate the accuracy with which a stereolithographic model could be made to completely reunite both surfaces of the resected mandible and restore full contour. The design and fabrication of a mandibular prosthesis utilizing CAD/CAM technology and stereolithography is still in the early stages, but initial results indicate that with further research and better tools this could provide a new approach to mandibular resections, providing better aesthetic results.
Australian dentists' views on toothbrush wear and renewal
Authors: Daly C. G. , Marshall RI , Lazarus R.
Published: March 2008

The purpose of this study was to survey the views of Australian dentists on toothbrush wear, toothbrush renewal periods and recommendations to patients and to investigate the relationship between dentists' views on patients' toothbrush renewal intervals and dentists' own renewal habits. Questionnaires were mailed to 5,596 Australian general dental practitioners and replies received from 3,406 (61 per cent response rate). The majority of respondents (85.7 per cent) felt patients should renew their toothbrushes more often. However, only 45.3 per cent usually made a recommendation to their patients as to when they should renew their toothbrush and only 41.7 per cent thought patients actually followed such recommendations. Most respondents (56.6 per cent) thought the average adult patient should renew a toothbrush every two‐three months. A renewal period of one month or earlier was recommended by 23.8 per cent of dentists; four‐five months by 8 per cent; and six months or longer by 11.5 per cent. A highly significant correlation was found between the renewal periods recommended for patients and the intervals selected by the dentists for their personal brushes (p<0.001; chi‐square test). Bending and splaying of bristles was the sign identified by the majority of dentists (70 per cent) as indicating the need for a new brush. The findings suggest dentists' recommendations concerning toothbrush renewal intervals may be based on their own toothbrush renewal habits. It is also concluded that dentists think patients comply poorly with their recommendations on toothbrush renewal.
Safety issues relating to the use of hydrogen peroxide in dentistry
Authors: Walsh Laurence J.
Published: March 2008

Hydrogen peroxide is used widely in professionally and self‐administered products. Hydrogen peroxide is a highly reactive substance which can damage oral soft tissues and hard tissues when present in high concentrations and with exposures of prolonged duration. This report provides an overview of health issues relating to the use of hydrogen peroxide, with an emphasis on safety with prolonged exposure to low concentrations of peroxide products. there is good evidence for the safety of hydrogen peroxide when used at low concentrations on a daily basis over extended periods of time, in self‐administered oral health care products such as dentifrices and mouthrinses. These low concentrations neither damage oral hard or soft tissues, nor do they pose a significant risk of adverse long‐term effects. Caution should be exercised with the increasingly higher concentration peroxide products used for ‘walking’ or ‘power’ bleaching due to the possibility of chemical irritation of oral soft tissues with injudicious use. The volumes of material and application times should be controlled carefully. Thorough education of patients is particularly important with self‐applied gels because of the lack of professional supervision with such products. Such education is part of the duty of care of the dentist who supplies bleaching gels for at‐home use.