Journal of Contemporary Dental Sciences

Pharmacological Behavior Management in Pediatric Dentistry: A Comprehensive Review

Mohamed Tharwat Salama (Author) — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Abstract: Pediatric dentistry plays a crucial role in managing children with special healthcare needs or dental anxiety. Successful treatment requires effective behavior management during dental procedures. This review examines the safety, efficacy, and appropriate applications of pharmacological methods used in pediatric dentistry, including nitrous oxide, oral sedatives, nasal sedation/intranasal mucosal sedation, intravenous (IV) sedation, and general anesthesia. Nitrous oxide is commonly used for moderate anxiety due to its rapid onset and minimal recovery time. Oral sedatives, such as benzodiazepines, achieve a deeper level of sedation but require a longer onset and recovery period. Nasal sedation provides a rapid and non-invasive alternative to traditional sedation methods, particularly in pediatric patients. General anesthesia is used when a child cannot cooperate due to extreme anxiety or medical conditions, while IV sedation is preferred for complex procedures or highly anxious children. Recent advances in sedation protocols have led to more personalized, safer, and effective treatment approaches. Background: Dental anxiety is prevalent in children, often leading to avoidance of essential dental care and poor oral health. Pharmacological sedation plays a critical role in alleviating anxiety and improving treatment outcomes. Nitrous oxide is ideal for brief treatments due to its rapid action and short duration. Oral sedatives, including benzodiazepines, provide deeper sedation but require longer preparation and recovery times. Nasal and intranasal mucosal sedation offer an effective, rapid alternative, especially in pediatric patients with difficult venous access or those who are needle-averse. General anesthesia is used for severe cases of anxiety or medical conditions, while IV sedation is preferred for more invasive treatments. Recent improvements in sedation safety protocols allow for customized approaches to meet individual child needs. Conclusion: Pharmacological sedation is necessary in pediatric dentistry, improving outcomes by reducing anxiety and personalizing treatments to ensure safety and effectiveness

Perceptions of Preventive Dentistry's Economic Value: A Study Among Jeddah’s Dental Professionals and the General Population

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Background: A main concern in preventive dentistry is the lack of awareness on the importance of preventive oral health care and the economic influence of applying these measures when compared to seeking treatment only when needed. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and knowledge of dental professionals and the general population regarding the economic value of preventive dentistry. Methods: A survey questionnaire was distributed to assess the respondents’ socio-economic attributes, dental health knowledge, awareness of the cost of dental care services, and attitude towards preventive dental treatment. The level of knowledge was measured using an additive method, and the reliability of the variables was analyzed using the Cronbach alpha model. The relationships of the variables were measured using Chi-square test, independent t-test, and one-way ANOVA with the Least Significant Difference test as Post-Hoc analysis. Results: The knowledge scores with respect to education levels, types of residency, income, employment status and their involvement in the dental field were all found to have statistically significant differences. Those in high socio-economic standing and those associated with the dental field agree that regular dental visits can save more money than visiting dentists only when needed. Conclusion: This study defined the relationship between the respondents’ socio-economic status and their knowledge of the economic cost of preventive dentistry and subsequent attitude towards it. The general population is well-informed on the economic value of preventive dentistry; however, the problem lies with the application of this knowledge.

Evaluation of Soft Tissue Parameters around Titanium and Zirconia Implants in the Anterior Region: A retrospective Study

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Background: Recent advancements in dental implant materials have highlighted zirconia as a promising alternative to traditional titanium implants. The soft tissue response is crucial for the long-term success and esthetics of dental implants. Therefore, this study aims to compare soft tissue thickness, pocket depth, bleeding on probing, and gingival color around zirconia and titanium implants. Methods: This retrospective cohort study enrolled 60 patients one year post-implant placement, conducted at King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Dentistry (KAU-FD) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from April to October 2024. Soft tissue parameters (thickness, pocket depth, bleeding on probing) around zirconia and titanium implants were measured using a UNC-15 periodontal probe. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 27. Results: Significant differences were found between zirconia and titanium implants in terms of soft tissue thickness (p=0.031), color (p<0.001), and bleeding on probing (p=0.004). Zirconia implants were associated with thinner soft tissue (53.8%) compared to titanium implants (73.5% thick tissue). All patients with titanium implants experienced color changes, while 82.1% of zirconia patients reported no change. Additionally, all titanium implant patients had bleeding on probing, whereas none of the zirconia implant patients did. Conclusions: Zirconia implants appear to be reliable replacements for situations wherein titanium is not a feasible choice or where aesthetics are a priority. Further research is recommended to continue exploring the long-term outcomes and potential advantages of zirconia implants in diverse patient populations.

Public preconceptions, perceptions, and misconceptions about dental implants: A cross-sectional survey

Ahamad Alhusein, Rami Anshasi, Mohammed Yehya (Author) — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Background: Appraising patient expectations about dental implants affects the overall treatment aftermath. This study highlights perceptions of paramount importance in implant success. Purpose: This cross-sectional study aims to acquire the public’s primary perceptions about dental implant therapy. Methods: A 10-item questionnaire was circulated to a random community sample of 454 participants who visited dental clinics in Northern Jordan. The questionnaire covered sociodemographic parameters and perceptions items. Results: The survey revealed several key misconception. Around half of the respondents believed implants could not be placed immediately after tooth extraction, reflecting a lack of awareness about immediate implant placement techniques. 8% of the sample, especially the lower education bracket, thought only individuals who had lost all their teeth could receive implants. This indicates a misunderstanding of the broad applications of dental implants, which can be used to replace individual teeth, not just full arches. About 23% viewed implant treatment as risky, painful, and associated with prolonged recovery times. 33.3% of the sample had a belief that implants impose dietary restrictions. This belief was more likely pronounced among men and younger public. 6% agree that implants are less durable than other treatment options. Additionally, 23% thought implants do not require special aftercare and 5.3%, especially the younger respondents, underestimated the qualifications necessary for performing the procedure. Around 3%, particularly the seniors and middle-aged adults viewed implants as functionally poor and not cost-effective. Conclusion: Though a fair level of awareness exists among most of the subjects in this study, some assume various unrealistic perceptions.

Patterns of Mental Foramen and Anterior Loop in Patients Attending Qassim University. A CBCT-based cross-sectional study.

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Background: The mental foramen is a crucial anatomical landmark in the lower jaw, providing a passage for nerves and blood vessels. Variations in its location, shape, and size can impact dental procedures and surgical outcomes, with global variations affecting approximately 60% of the population. Understanding these variations is essential to reduce surgical risks and improve patient outcomes in dental practices. Objective: The study aimed to identify the pattern of mental foramen and anterior loop in patients attending Qassim University, using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to assess its prevalence, classification, and distance from the mandibular border. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at the College of Dentistry, Qassim University, with 371 participants selected by simple random method. Data collection involved CBCT scans evaluated independently by a radiologist and a maxillofacial surgeon, with inter-examiner agreement ensured through calibration. Statistical analysis used SPSS® software version 21, with chi-square and Fisher's exact tests for significance, and the Kappa test for inter-observer bias. Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional ethics committee. Results: The study involved 340 participants, with 68.8% males and 31.2% females. The most prevalent right-side classification was Type I (52.6%), followed by Type II (31.8%) and Type III (15.6%). The left side showed a similar distribution with Type I at 48.8%, Type II at 31.5%, and Type III at 19.7%. Most mental foramina were directed upward (93.8% on the right side and 93.5% on the left side). The most common pattern for the mental foramen was the straight pattern (67.5%), with the anterior loop (18.8%) and perpendicular patterns (13.7%) being less common. Conclusion: The study found significant variations in mental foramen patterns, the most common being the straight pattern. Although there was no significant association between gender and classification, a significant association was observed between bilateral occurrence and left-side classification.