Journal of Contemporary Dental Sciences

Implant-Supported Full Mouth Rehabilitation Utilizing Dynamic Abutments for Non-Axial Implants

2025-07-08T17:34:19+03:00

This clinical report describes a full mouth rehabilitation using implant-supported fixed prostheses in a 63 year-old completely edentulous female. The placement of the maxillary implants tended to result in improper angulation, prompting the use of dynamic abutments to correct the unfavorable orientation and ensure proper screw access for the final prosthesis. Definitive prostheses fabricated in monolithic zirconia were selected for durability, biocompatibility and pleasant optical properties. The full mouth rehabilitation process included creating diagnostic wax arrangements, taking impressions and occlusal adjustments to define and illustrate functional and aesthetic relationships. Definitive prostheses were finally seated with patient approval after positive comments about aesthetics and functionality, and a sense of satisfaction with the over-all final result. This clinical case displayed the possibility of dynamic abutments for non-axial implants and provided a successful functional, durable and aesthetic prosthesis with both advanced materials and technology. Ongoing follow-up care and regular maintenance for the patient may give the best possibility for establishing the long-term success of implant-supported restorations.

Knowledge and Attitude of Health Specialties Students Towards Psychological and Depression Medicines on Oral Health

2025-07-30T12:16:14+03:00

Abstract: Background: Oral health is a combination of social, psychological, and physiological factors that are critical for our quality of life. Many commonly prescribed antidepressants and antipsychotics are somehow associated with profound oral health side effects. While dental professionals are well-educated in these effects, the awareness among other health specialty students remains unclear. Since they are involved in patient care and medication prescription, their knowledge in this point is crucial. The study seeks to assess knowledge and awareness levels about the impact of psychological and depression medicines on oral health. Additionally, it aims to evaluate their confidence in discussing these effects with patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study using a structured questionnaire among 351 health specialty students, excluding dental students. The data were analyzed to determine knowledge and attitude levels and differences among specialties. Results: The study found that most health specialties students had moderate knowledge of the oral side effects of psychotropic drugs, especially antidepressants and antipsychotics. Female students and those in private universities generally scored higher. A strong positive correlation was observed between knowledge and attitude, indicating that improving knowledge may enhance attitudes. However, gaps remain in understanding specific drug effects like bruxism and xerostomia, highlighting the need for better interdisciplinary education. Conclusions: Different attitudes toward antidepressants and antipsychotic medicines are common among health specialty students. It is therefore necessary to improve their knowledge levels towards the impact of such drugs on oral health.

Are Dental Schools Prepared for Disease X? A Case Study Addressing Dental Student's Anxiety and Concerns.

2025-07-30T12:07:56+03:00

Background: This study aims to compare dental students' anxiety levels before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, it seeks to assess their concerns about potential future threats, such as a hypothetical disease with similar or more severe impacts than COVID-19, referred to as 'Disease X, 'and identify the most effective methods to support them during such challenging times. Methods: The present descriptive observational study was conducted from October 2019 to February 2023, with a sample size of 329 participants. One hundred dental students completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Adults (STAI-AD), a widely used psychological instrument for measuring anxiety, before (n=51) and after (n=49) the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, 229 students responded to an online questionnaire addressing their concerns about the re-emergence of pandemics or disease X. The anxiety scores were analyzed using a t-test and the survey using descriptive statistics and a t-test, providing a comprehensive understanding of the student's mental health and concerns. Results: Our findings reveal a significant increase in anxiety scores after the COVID-19 pandemic (P<0.0001), underscoring the profound impact of the pandemic on dental students. The majority of students (56%) took a proactive approach and suggested the development of an emergency curriculum plan, including online courses (57%) and virtual preclinical and clinical training (51%), as the most effective strategies to address their concerns about the re-emergence of a pandemic. Conclusions: The pandemic increased the anxiety of dental students, and many of them are concerned about the recurrence of future pandemics or disease X.

Reasons for Tooth Extraction in Patients Attending the Specialized Dental Center in Medina

2025-10-08T10:42:27+03:00

Objective:

This study investigated the reasons for tooth extractions among Saudi patients attending a dental institution and evaluated these causes in relation to demographic factors

Materials and methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Dental Specialized Center in Madina, Saudi Arabia. The study included 1,866 patients (898 males, 968 females) who underwent tooth extractions between January 2021 and December 2023. Data collected included patient demographics and reasons for extraction, categorized into six groups. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.

Results and Discussion:

Of the 1,866 participants, 51.9% (n=968) were female and 48.1% (n=898) were male. The predominant age group was 21-30 years (27.65%). Dental caries was the primary reason for extraction (62.6%, n=1,168), with a higher prevalence among females (56.0%) compared to males (44.0%). Periodontal disease was the second most common cause (16.9%, n=315), predominantly affecting males (62.2% vs 37.8% in females).

Conclusion:

Dental caries remains the primary cause of tooth extraction in Saudi patients, followed by periodontal disease, with distinct age and gender-related patterns.

Dental Health and Oral Hygiene Behaviors Among Adults with Depression Symptoms in Saudi Arabia.

2025-11-03T09:55:26+03:00

Background: Oral diseases remain among the most common non-communicable conditions worldwide, imposing a significant public health and economic burden. Emerging evidence suggests an association between depressive symptoms and adverse oral health outcomes. However, data from Saudi Arabia are limited. Objectives: The study aims to assess the relationship between depression symptoms and oral health outcomes among adults in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between June and August 2020, with 655 adult participants. Data included sociodemographics, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) to screen for depressive symptoms, and self-reported oral health outcomes. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed using SAS (SAS OnDemand for Academics). Results: Of 655 participants, 146 (22.3%) reported depression symptoms. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables and chronic disease indicators, depressive symptoms were significantly associated with fair/poor oral health (aOR = 2.97 [1.97–4.48]), oral aches (aOR = 2.08 [1.39–3.12]), dental caries (aOR = 1.75 [1.17–2.61]), and periodontal disease (aOR = 1.82 [1.20–2.76]) compared with those with no depression (p-value < 0.05). Participants with depressive symptoms were more likely to feel embarrassed about their oral health (aOR = 3.62 [2.41–5.46]) and to report difficulty at work or school (aOR = 3.06 [1.63–5.72]). Limited access to dental care within the past year was also significantly associated with depressive symptoms (aOR = 1.99 [0.34–2.96]; p < 0.05). Conclusions: Adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and chronic disease indicators, depression symptoms are associated with poor/fair oral health, mouth ache, and dental caries. These findings highlight the need for integrated oral and mental health interventions and improved access to preventive dental services.