Journal of Contemporary Dental Sciences

Oil Pulling in Dentistry. A Review

Nabila Abdelkarim — 2025-09-30

Background: Oil pulling (OP) is an ancient Ayurveda technique that has gained popularity as a contemporary non-pharmacological alternative to conventional mouthwashes. Previously traditionally performed for its supposed antibacterial and detox properties, OP involves swishing sesame, coconut, and sunflower oil in the mouth to remove toxins and promote oral health. Anecdotal benefits are claimed for plaque removal and gum condition, but scientific evidence is poor and inconsistent. The review critically examines the clinical, scientific, and historical evidence base of OP and contrasts its efficacy with conventional oral hygiene regimens. It examines its impact on oral microbiota, plaque development, halitosis, and gingival inflammation and assesses patient compliance and dentists’ knowledge of its utility and limitations. Methods: This narrative integration of literature combines the latest literature on OP mechanisms and oral health application. A search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar was conducted for studies published from 2010 to February 2025. Meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and randomized controlled trials that examined OP’s antibacterial effect, reduction in plaque, and halitosis control were considered. There was no systematic method or risk of bias assessment. Results: OP is shown to significantly reduce plaque, control halitosis, and improve gingival health but is less effective compared to chlorhexidine mouthwash. Coconut and sesame oils are antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory in nature, but OP does not contribute substantially to enamel remineralization or act as an alternative to fluoride therapy. Conclusion: OP must be viewed as an adjunct oral hygiene procedure and not as a substitute for brushing, flossing, and the use of fluoride. Additional trials are required to develop standardized protocols and clinical guidelines.
Keywords: Ayurveda, chlorhexidine, fluoride mouthwash, gingival inflammation, halitosis, oil pulling, oral hygiene, plaque control

Oral Health Knowledge, Attitude, Practice Among a Sample of Saudi Orthodontic Patients. A Cross Sectional Survey Study

Hazim Mohamed Rizk — 2025-09-30

Background: Orthodontic treatment involves realignment of teeth and dentofacial structures using orthodontics appliances. During the treatment, it is mandatory for the patient to recognize and apply oral hygiene to prevent irreversible damage to the teeth and periodontium that might occur during the orthodontic treatment course. Aim: To assess the knowledge, awareness, attitude, and practice of patients regarding oral hygiene maintenance of patients undergoing fixed orthodontic appliance treatment. Methods: Out of 450 patients selected, 317 responded with a response rate 70.5%, in the Qassim region and other Saudi regions (Al-Jawf/Aseer/Eastern/Jazan/Mecca/Northern/ Riyadh/Tabuk). Inclusion criteria are patients undergoing fixed orthodontic appliance treatment, with the age group of 13–25 years, willing to participate were selected for the study. All participants were given a questionnaire containing 21 questions based on the knowledge, attitude, and practices of oral hygiene. Their responses were tabulated, and analysis was performed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) statistics version 20 (SPSS Inc. Chicago, IL, USA). Results: Participants who completed the survey, 71% were females compared to 29% males. More participants who completed the questionnaire belonged to the Qassim region (67.5%) compared to other Saudi regions (32.5%). The participants had good knowledge (Qassim region 41.6% and other Saudi regions 45.6%), Fair attitude (Qassim region 50% and other Saudi regions 46.8%), and poor practice of oral hygiene (Qassim region 43.9% and other Saudi regions 53.4%) during orthodontic treatment. A statistically significant correlation was found between patients’ knowledge and practice (P ˂ 0.05). The knowledge and attitude of females toward oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment was higher than males with no statistically significant differences (P = 0.246). Females’ oral hygiene practice during orthodontic treatment was found to be better than males and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.021). Conclusion: Most of the participants (male/ female) had the awareness about the importance of oral hygiene maintenance during orthodontic treatment; however, very few of them had a positive attitude toward oral hygiene maintenance and only few of them practiced it.

Advancements In Tooth Transplantation and Reimplantation Techniques. A Review

Reem Hussain — 2025-09-30

Background: The evolution of tooth transplantation and reimplantation has been significantly influenced by technological advancements, including cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), advanced biomaterials, and digital planning. These innovations have enhanced procedural precision, improved success rates, and increased patient satisfaction. However, despite these advancements, challenges remain in optimizing long-term clinical outcomes and standardizing treatment protocols. Aim: This study aims to comprehensively assess and analyze the latest advancements in tooth transplantation and reimplantation techniques, evaluating their impact on clinical success and patient outcomes. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and PubMed to identify peer-reviewed articles, reviews, and clinical studies published between 2007 and 2024. The inclusion criteria focused on studies investigating the role of CBCT imaging, digital planning, and biomaterials in enhancing transplantation and reimplantation procedures. Results: The findings reveal a transformative shift from conventional techniques to technology-driven approaches, leading to increased precision in case selection, surgical planning, and post-operative management. The integration of CBCT imaging has significantly improved preoperative assessment, while digital workflows have optimized procedural accuracy and predictability. Moreover, the use of advanced biomaterials has enhanced graft integration and long-term success rates. Conclusion: The incorporation of CBCT, digital planning, and biomaterials has revolutionized tooth transplantation and reimplantation, improving clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. However, further research is needed to establish standardized protocols and long-term efficacy, ensuring consistent success across diverse clinical settings.

Chronic Traumatic Ulcer Of The Tongue : Two Case Reports Highlighting Diagnostic Challenges And Malignancy Mimicry

Imran Mohtesham — 2025-09-30

This case report highlights a traumatic ulcer mimicking oral squamous cell carcinoma. Oral ulcers, commonly caused by trauma, often present diagnostic challenges. Two male patients, aged 25 and 90, reported painful solitary lingual ulcers resembling malignancy. A biopsy was performed, leading to significant regression and complete healing. Initially misdiagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma, the ulcers required careful clinical evaluation, medical history review, and additional investigations for accurate diagnosis. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis, emphasizing biopsy’s role in both diagnosis and healing. This report highlights the importance of biopsy in distinguishing traumatic ulcers from malignancy and facilitating proper management.

Rehabilitation With Partial and Complete Tooth supported Overdentures Using Zest Attachments . A Case Report

Mohammed Khalid Alsaegh — 2025-09-30

Complete or partial tooth-supported overdentures offer several advantages over traditional dentures, including better stability and retention, preservation of remaining alveolar bone, and enhanced sensory input from periodontal receptors. These benefits contribute to improved function, psychological well-being, and overall patient biological health. The use of extra coronal attachments allows for a secure connection while permitting some degree of movement, which helps distribute stress more evenly and enhances the comfort and functionality of the denture. This article describes a clinical case report of rehabilitating a partially edentulous patient and fabrication of a tooth-supported maxillary partial overdenture and mandibular complete overdenture using Zest attachments.