Dental Public Health and Education Commons^™

Gentle Beginnings: Innovative Use Of Melatonin And Triclofos Sodium For Uncooperative Children-An Invivo Study, Rohan Shrivastava, Sonal Gupta, Charu Aggarwal, Akil Prawin S.S

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Objectives: To compare the pre- and post-use of oral melatonin and oral triclofos as oral sedative drugs on anxiety, sedation, and cognitive and psychomotor function to perform satisfactory dental treatment on uncooperative children.

Methods: A total number of 100 patients aged between 4 and 9 years who were scheduled for dental treatment were randomly divided into two groups, Group I and Group II, and administered melatonin and triclofos sodium, respectively, to determine changes in anxiety, cognitive, psychomotor, and sedation scores pre- and post-treatment. Data were analyzed using an unpaired/paired t-test, and P < 0.05 was contemplated as statistically significant.

Results: Post-treatment assessments revealed a significant reduction in …

Employing Artificial Intelligence For Non-Invasive Diagnosis Of Craniofacial Deformities: A Systematic Review Of Non-Ionizing Radiation Methods, Nurul Mutmainnah, Harun Achmad, Lusy Damayanti

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Introduction: Craniofacial deformities, like craniosynostosis and plagiocephaly, require early diagnosis, but traditional methods like CT scans use harmful ionizing radiation. Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a non-invasive, radiation-free alternative, using 2D and 3D imaging for accurate diagnosis, improving safety and accessibility, especially in remote areas.

Objective: This review evaluates the use of AI in diagnosing craniofacial deformities without ionizing radiation, focusing on its strengths, limitations, and challenges in clinical implementation.

Methods: The literature was searched across five databases—PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Wiley, and Cochrane—over the last decade, following PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria were AI-based, non-invasive imaging techniques for craniofacial deformities. The …

Special Care Clinic At Lsu School Of Dentistry, Francis Martello Dds

New Orleans Dental Association News

The new LSU Special Care Clinic is fully functioning and helping to train dental and dental hygiene students in how to best care for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The clinic is located on the second floor of the Administration Building, thanks to new dean, Dr. John Gallo. A soft (and snowy!) opening in January 2025 was followed by a grand opening on May 9th. The clinic is staffed by first through fourth-year dental students, with leadership from members of the Special Care Dentistry Association (SCDA) student chapter.

Evaluation Of An Audiovisual Educational Tool With Reinforcement Messages For Orthodontic Patients: A 6-Month Randomized Controlled Trial, Laura Restrepo Quijano, Maria Paula Vasco Gomez, Natalia Hurtado Velasquez, Luis Fabian Benitez Moreno

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: Orthodontic treatment increases the risk of bacterial plaque accumulation; therefore, oral hygiene education is essential to prevent complications, but its impact is usually limited when it is not reinforced with effective tools. This study aims to evaluate an audiovisual educational tool with reinforcement messages, compared with a verbal explanation about the proper use of the orthodontic oral hygiene kit.

Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial that included 62 patients randomly assigned to an intervention group: 31 patients who received an educational video plus three reinforcement messages via WhatsApp, and a control group: 31 patients who received …

Perspectives On An Unconventional Partnership Between Occupational Therapists And Pediatric Dental Professionals, Marissa Holsonback, Reeti Douglas, Leslie Gazdeck

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Pediatric clients with disabilities are at increased risk for dental problems, including periodontal disease. Developmental delay and sensory processing dysfunction hinder acceptance of the stimulating dental environment and engagement in oral care routines at home. This health disparity is magnified by many dental professionals’ lack of training and confidence with children who have special needs. The holistic occupational therapy scope of practice is inclusive of oral care, pediatric diagnoses, sensory integration, and behavior management, allowing occupational therapists to collaborate with pediatric dental professionals to address the oral health disparity. This perspective manuscript provides occupational therapists with an evidence-supported understanding of …

Lsu Health New Orleans School Of Dentistry Welcomes Esperanza Academy For Give Kids A Smile Day

New Orleans Dental Association News

LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry (LSUSD) reinforced its long standing commitment to community oral health by welcoming approximately 120 first, second, and third graders from Esperanza Academy for this year’s Give Kids a Smile Day—a national initiative dedicated to expanding access to dental care and oral health education for children

The article showcases the event services, activities, contributors, and fun photos full of costumes.

J Mich Dent Assoc February 2026

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association delivers news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It remains the main publication reaching Michigan dentists and is available worldwide through ADA Commons.

The February 2026 (Volume 108, No. 2) issue of the Journal is published in a digital format to provide updates and insights for Michigan's oral health community and MDA members. Print editions occur every other month beginning with January.

This issue includes feature articles on Risk Management and 2025 Servant Leadership as well as a clinical reprint …

J Mich Dent Assoc January 2026

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association delivers news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It remains the main publication reaching Michigan dentists and is available worldwide through ADA Commons. The January 2026 (Volume 108, No. 1) issue of the Journal is published in a print format to provide updates and insights for Michigan's oral health community and MDA members. Print editions occur every other month beginning with January.

This issue includes feature articles on Pediatric Dentistry and 2025 Life Membership recipients.

Regular monthly contributions include:

• Editorial …

Effect Of Sdf Application Versus Diode Laser Irradiation On Incipient Carious Lesion’S Progression In Primary Molars: A Randomize Clinical Trial, Islam Yehia, Noha Samir Kabil, Basma Gamal

Dentistry

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of two different preventive measures a) Silver diamine (SDF) application, b) Diode laser irradiation, on caries progression of incipient carious occlusal lesions in primary second molars. This clinical trial included two equal study groups of patients, for applying; Group I: SDF application, Group II: Diode laser irradiation, the included second primary molars for intervention were selected with incipient carious lesions graded by International Caries Detection & Assessment System (ICDAS)with scores (0,1,2). The involved molars were followed up for 3, 6, 12 months and ICDAS scores were graded to check for caries progression …

Oral Hygiene Practices, Treatment Needs And Barriers To Dental Care Among Adolescents Attending Special Education Schools In Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Nur Hafizah Nor Wira, Noraida Mamat, Maryani Mohamed Rohani, Aimi Kamarudin, Sofia Anis

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the oral health practices, status, and treatment requirements of adolescents with special healthcare needs attending special education schools in Selangor, Malaysia. The adolescents’ parents perceived challenges to oral healthcare were also established. Methods: The current study employed a cross-sectional approach involving 131 adolescents with varying special needs. The participants were between 13 and 18 years old and fulfilled the pre-determined inclusion criteria. The participants’ parents supplied information on sociodemographic, oral health practices, and possible obstacles to dental care through an online survey form. The oral examination on decay, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT), simplified …

Development Of Preventive Dental Guidelines In The Primary Healthcare Setting In Egypt: A Delphi Method, Basant Mehriz

Theses and Dissertations

This study addresses the critical need for standardized preventive dental care guidelines within Egypt's primary healthcare system amid the rising burden of oral diseases. Through a systematic two-phase methodology combining a comprehensive literature review and a Delphi consensus-building process engaging 35 dental professionals, the research established priorities for contextually appropriate preventive measures. The consensus framework revealed strong support for clinical interventions (mean of 83% agreement), particularly fluoride-based prevention; community initiatives (mean of 83%), especially school-based programs; policy measures (mean of 77%) such as workforce and educational development, though with variable support for taxation and social determinants approaches. Statistical analysis demonstrated …

Natal And Neonatal Teeth In Mississippi Newborn, Keona Sanders, Anna Mcdowell, Dr. Sarah Mccrary

Undergraduate Research Conference

Title: Natal And Neonatal Teeth In Mississippi Newborns

Submission Type: Semester Long Research/ Oral Presentation

Abstract: In recent years, we have seen a growth in Mississippi infants being born with or growing teeth at an earlier stage. This may be caused by several things, like gestational age, maternal age, or possibly the mother’s diet. We are now looking for common similarities between these infants to see what the possible cause may be. Although this may not seem detrimental, this is still very harmful for infants, causing diseases like Riga Fede Disease. This is a disease that is caused by mandibular …

Comparison Of Untreated Caries And Caries-Risk Improvement In An Elementary-School-Based Comprehensive Dental Care Program, John-Vincent Quiao D.D.S., Gavin To, Dahea Ham, Courtney H. Chinn Dds, Mph, Elizabeth Best M.P.H., Rose Amable D.D.S.

The New York State Dental Journal

Purpose: This retrospective chart review explored differences in initial exam caries-risk assessment and mean change in untreated carious teeth at 18-month recall.

Methods: Five years of clinical records from two school site locations were reviewed. Bivariate analysis (t-test) was used.

Results: A total of 150 charts satisfied the inclusion criteria. Average caries-risk score at initial exam was significantly higher in Asians compared to non-Asians.

Conclusions: Findings demonstrate that Asian subjects show a higher initial risk assessment score. There was no significant difference in untreated caries by treatment location, which demonstrates the efficacy of school-based programs.

N Y State Dent J April 2025

The New York State Dental Journal

In the April 2025 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• Treatment Options for Pre-eruptive Intracoronal Resorption of Permanent Teeth: A Report of Two Cases
• Successful Treatment of a “Pedo-Endo” Lesion in a Primary First Molar
• Comparison of Untreated Caries and Caries-Risk Improvement in an Elementary-School-Based Comprehensive Dental Care Program

This issue includes regular columns with regional news impacting the New York membership including: editorial and perspectives columns, legal, association activities, component news, continuing education opportunities, and classifieds.

Current Concepts In Prenatal Dental Care: A Narrative Review, Adam Lawlor

Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Assessment Of Dental Anxiety And Fear In A Group Of Children And Adolescents With Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (Mih), A Comparative Cross Sectional Study, Jumana Adel Alshafei, Osama Ibrahim El-Shahawy, Randa Youssef, Eman Alaa

Future Dental Journal

Introduction: patients with Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation are highly susceptible to caries and hypersensitivity because of the altered morphology and structure of the enamel prisms, which can result in complication in management during the treatment.

Aim: the aim of the study was to assess the Dental Fear and Anxiety in a group of Egyptian children and adolescents with MIH.

Subjects and methods: the study was a comparative cross-sectional study included 200 Egyptian children and adolescents aged from 6 to 17 years old ,100 patients diagnosed with MIH and 100 as a control group attending the Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health …

Oral Health-Related Quality Of Life: A Cross-Sectional Comparison Between Dental And Non-Dental Students At Newgiza University, Fayrouz Sayed Saber, Mohamed Sabry, Alaa Nawar, Mayar El Weik

Future Dental Journal

Introduction: Evaluating oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among Egyptian dental students can broaden the traditional focus on dental criteria to include social, emotional, and functional aspects. This perspective shift is vital as background knowledge influences both perceptions and behaviors regarding oral health. Comparing OHRQoL between dental and non-dental students is crucial for understanding these differences.

Aim: This study aims to compare the oral health related quality of life and oral hygiene measures between a group of dental and non-dental students at Newgiza University.

Methods: During the Oral Health Day at Newgiza University, the short form of the Oral …

Find Your Brave Spot!, Jessica R. Bentoski D.D.S., M.S., F.A.A.P.D.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This introduction emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear, both in pediatric patients and within personal and professional growth. The author reflects on the rewarding experience of helping children manage dental anxiety and encourages peers to find their "brave spot" to embrace challenges and opportunities in dentistry. Highlighted articles in the issue focus on practical approaches for treating children with special needs and the importance of prenatal care for establishing a foundation for oral health. The message celebrates mentorship, leadership, and the joy of serving young patients.

N Y State Dent J January 2025

The New York State Dental Journal

In the January 2025 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• The Open Apex Challenge: A Case Series
• Pathological Changes in Soft Tissues Associated with Radiographically Normal Impacted Teeth
• Bridging the Dental Care Gap: Addressing Oral Health Disparities in New York State Nursing Homes
• Dental Management of a Talon Cusp on a Permanent Incisor in Traumatic Occlusion

This issue includes regular columns with regional news impacting the New York membership including: editorial and perspectives columns, legal, association activities, component news, continuing education opportunities, and classifieds.

Approaches To Care For Children With Special Needs In Dental Settings: Desensitization And Teledentistry, Hannah Bergeron D.M.D., M.S., Chia-En Tsai D.D.S., Giovana Anovazzi D.D.S., M.Sc., Ph.D., James R. Boynton D.D.S., M.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Children with special health care needs (SHCN) are at a heightened risk of developing chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or cognitive conditions that significantly affect their oral and general health. These children often encounter significant barriers to receiving adequate dental care, which contributes to neglected oral health needs. Common challenges include increased risk of dental diseases due to medication use, oral hygiene difficulties, and dietary restrictions. Newer strategies aimed at overcoming these barriers include the use of dental social stories, desensitization techniques, and teledentistry.

Social stories offer a structured way for parents to help prepare children for their dental visits. Desensitization …

Outcome Of Vital Pulp Therapy Using Mta And Biodentine In Permanent First Molars With Or Without Pulpitis In Pediatric Patients, Daniel Nho Dmd, Ms, Susan Paurazas Dds, Ms, Mhsa, Mazin Askar Bds, Ms, Salwa Atwan Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Purpose: This study evaluated the outcome of vital pulp therapy (VPT) in permanent first molar teeth using Biodentine (Septodont, Saint Maur des Fosses, France) or ProRoot MTA (Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties, Johnson City, Tenn.) in pediatric patients. Methods: Permanent first molar teeth with or without a history of pulpitis from patients aged 7 to 14 years old were treated at the Graduate Endodontic Clinic from September 2007 to August 2022. A retrospective cohort clinical trial was conducted. VPT was performed on a total of 22 teeth. There were 13 teeth in the Biodentine (BD) group and nine teeth in the …

J Mich Dent Assoc October 2024

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists. The October issue's key content includes:

• Clinical Feature on Endodontics and Vital Pulp Therapy
• Practice Management Feature with Tips on Surviving the Death of a Partner
• An update on Advocacy

Va Dent J January, February & March 2023

Virginia Dental Journal

In the January, February and March 2023 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• An Interview with Dr. Richard Roadcap: Virginia Dental Journal Editor (2007 – 2023)
• Through the Looking Glass: The Fantastical World of Oral Pathology
• Treatment Access and Outcomes for Craniofacial Care: Patient and Parent Perspectives
• Cheiloscopy
• We’re Taking on the Fight tor Fairness and Transparency: We Need More Dentists to Join the Fight
• Serving the Petersburg Community: VDA Foundation Collaboration with Central Virginia Health Services

This issue includes regular columns with regional news impacting the Virginia membership including: editorial and perspectives columns, legal, association activities, …

Listening To The Unsaid: Utilizing Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (Proms) To Manage The Dental Anxiety Of A Special Child, Asiya Attar, Kasturi Shukla

Patient Experience Journal

This article is the journey of a dentist who adopted the additional role of a healthcare manager and embarked on a transformative journey to enhance the realm of pedodontics. The story describes how the care process and related experiences were improved for a special child who came anxious and worried to a dental office for treatment and returned with better outcomes. Dental anxiety is a known barrier to smooth dental care which is further amplified in children and more so for the special children. In addition to providing the best treatment, we ensured a worry-free environment to release the anxiety …

Early Intervention With Clear Aligners: A New Frontier In Paediatric Dentistry, Ritika Tiwari, Ajay Ht Rao, Sharan S. Sargod, Sundeep K. Hegde, Raksha K. Ballal, Shazma Sharief

Manipal Journal of Medical Sciences

Clear aligner therapy (CAT) has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional braces, offering a more discreet and comfortable option for orthodontic treatment, particularly in growing patients. This technique uses a set of clear, specially designed plastic trays that gradually force teeth into place. Although transparent aligners are frequently used by adults, their use in children has increased significantly, especially for those with mixed dentition (ages 6–12). Since it enables orthodontists to treat occlusal and functional problems before they worsen, this stage of dental development is essential for early intervention. The benefits of clear aligners include enhanced face and dental …

Success Of Early Childhood Caries After Treatment With Silver Diamine Fluoride Compared To Conventional Glass Ionomer Restoration. A Systematic Review, Sara H. Younis, Afnan M. Elkordy, Nouran M. Alshazly

Future Dental Journal

Abstract

Aim: To compare the success rate regarding esthetics, parenteral satisfaction, and oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL) after treatment of early childhood caries with Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)compared to conventional Glass ionomer Restoration (CGI).

Materials and Methods: We conducted a systematic review following PRISMA statement by searching on the following electronic databases: PubMed, Cochrane.

Results: From the studies included in this systematic review, two studies showed significant difference in color stability between SDF and CGI. Two studies showed no significant difference in parental satisfaction with either SDF or Glass Ionomer. Regarding the Oral Health Related Quality of Life, …

Comparison Of Alignment Duration Between 0.018” And 0.022” Slot Brackets In Non-Extraction Orthodontic Adult Patients: (A Randomized Clinical Study), Omar Hazem Abouwafia, Hala Munir Abdel Majeed, Mona Salah Fayed, Nouran Fouad Seif-Eldin

Future Dental Journal

Abstract:

Introduction: Orthodontist tend to use one of the 2 bracket slot sizes available either the 0.018” or 0.022” bracket slot. Till now there is no reliable scientific evidence that indicates if any of them has a superior effect on the duration of teeth alignment. The aim of this study is to compare alignment duration between 0.018 and 0.022-inch bracket slot systems.

Subjects and methods: 14 Eligible participants having an age range of 14-22 years were randomly allocated to 2 groups (7 in each group). Group I: 0.018-inch and Group II: 0.022-inch slot (American orthodontics Mini master Roth prescription …

Measuring Accuracy Of Dolphin Imaging Software In Predicting Upper Jaw Soft Tissue Profile Changes In Class Ii Adult Patients Treated With Extraction Versus Non-Extraction., Amr Amin Arif, Esam Nasef, Amira Aboalnaga

Future Dental Journal

Abstract

Objective: To assess the accuracy of Dolphin Imaging software in predicting upper jaw profile changes in class II patients treated by extraction and non-extraction.

Methods: The records of 60 Class II div 1 patients were selected; 30 patients treated by extraction of upper first premolar and 30 patients treated by non-extraction. The Pre- and post-treatment lateral cephalometric x-rays of each patient were traced using Dolphin software. The actual hard tissue changes due to treatment were calculated and installed into the prediction module to generate the predicted profile. The soft tissue measurements of the actual post-treatment and predicted profiles were …

Increasing Oral Health In A Midwest Elementary School: Quality Improvement Project, Dee Young

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Marginalized communities experience barriers to accessing oral healthcare in the United States (US). Due to this, many children are left to use the emergency department (ED) for dental care. The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project was to improve oral health services access in children at one suburban Midwest elementary school. The objectives of this project were: a) to improve the efficiency of students registering in Fall 2023 to access available oral health exam services, b) to increase the number of students who receive an oral health exam compared to the number in the previous school year. …

Perceptions Of Oral Health-Related Care For Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scoping Review, Ismail Nabil Albhaisi, Shahida Mohd-Said, Yan Jia Lim, Tuti Ningseh Mohd-Dom, Ahmad Shuhud Irfani Zakaria, Colman Patrick Mcgrath

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Objective: This review aimed to seek insights into the challenges faced by caregivers and children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) when performing and accessing oral care and their recommendations to overcome the matter. Methods: Six electronic databases were used to search for published English full articles using a standardised strategy and grouped using thematic analysis as findings to the study’s goal. Results: The initial screening found 46 relevant articles, but 21 were deemed eligible. Studies were mostly observational (18 crosssectional surveys and 3 case-controls), retrieving data from online or face-to-face surveys and insurance health info. The perceptions …