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Clinical Corner: Pearls From Local Dentists

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

"Clinical Corner: Pearls from Local Dentists" is a section of the WMDDS Bulletin where local dentists share clinical wisdom for fellow practitioners. This edition discusses Caring for Patients with Cleft Lip and Palate.

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 …

An Unusual Case Of Bilateral Upper And Lower Oral Cavity Cysts In A Newborn, Frances Rodriguez Lara, Jillian L. Chen, Jennifer N. Shehan, Jessica R. Levi

HCA Healthcare Journal of Medicine

Background

Oral mucosal lesions in newborns have a broad differential diagnosis, ranging from benign, transient conditions to potential early signs of systemic disease. Most of these lesions are resolved without intervention, but delayed recognition can lead to complications, such as airway obstruction. Early identification is crucial for appropriate management. This case report discusses an unusual presentation of multiple oral mucosal cysts in a newborn, emphasizing the challenges of diagnosis and management.

Case Presentation

A 1-day-old male was evaluated at Boston Medical Center for cystic oral lesions identified during newborn screening. The infant was born at 36 weeks and 2 days’ …

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.

Discrepancies In Pediatric Oral Health, Tyler B. Truong

Student Scholar Symposium Abstracts and Posters

In 2024, data was collected by the CDC on untreated tooth decay. From that data, children living in low-income households had an estimated 18.8% of tooth decay untreated, almost triple the amount when compared to children from middle to high income households (6.6%). As the income disparity continues to grow in the US, it is critical that we implement strategies to aid lower income communities in providing their children with proper oral hygiene tactics. In order to understand how communities can help promote healthy oral hygiene for their children, a survey of dentists from various areas was conducted to see …

Dental Findings Associated With Dandy Walker And Orofacial Digital Syndrome, Cailey C. Schell, Robin Onikul, Neena Patel, Jenna Sparks, Amy Burleson

Posters

Dandy Walker Syndrome is a rare congenital brain malformation in which the cerebellum does not fully develop. The cerebellum is responsible for controlling movement and balance and is located at the back of the brain1. Clinical symptoms associated with this syndrome include developmental delays, hydrocephalus, eye abnormalities and dental abnormalities including malformed or missing teeth1. Orofacial Digital Syndrome is another rare genetic disorder characterized by a combination of abnormalities affecting the face, mouth, hands and feet2. Clinical features of this syndrome include cleft lip, cleft palate, syndactyly, polydactyly, hypodontia and supernumerary teeth2. This presentation discusses a 9-year-old female patient who …

Dental Rehabilitation Of Pediatric Patient With Ellis-Van Creveld Syndrome: Case Report, Emma Kojima Dds, Robin Onikul, Neena Patel, Jenna Sparks, Amy Burleson

Posters

Ellis-van Creveld Syndrome, also known as Chondroectodermal dysplasia, is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the EVC and EVC2 genes4. This syndrome is characterized by polydactyly of the hands, short limbs, ectodermal dysplasia, and congenital heart defects. Because Ellis–van Creveld syndrome affects all three embryonic layers, it presents with a range of oral manifestations, including absence of the mucobuccal fold, a serrated alveolar ridge, multiple labial frenula, abnormalities in tooth morphology, and congenitally missing teeth1. This report details a 20-month-old female who presented to the Children’s Mercy Dental Clinic in May 2019 for comprehensive dental care. The …

Evaluation And Treatment Of Pediatric Pre-Eruptive Intracoronal Resorption, Sophia Rosen, Robin Onikul, Neena Patel, Jenna Sparks, Amy Burleson

Posters

Pre- eruptive intracoronal resorption (PEIR), also known as “pre-eruptive caries,” is a dental condition characterized by the resorption of dental tissue prior to the eruption of the tooth.1PIER is typically found adjacent to the dentin-enamel junction, within the occlusal dentin of the tooth.2PIER may be referred to as “occult” or hidden caries due to the presence of sound enamel and is often an incidental finding on routine radiographs.3PEIR is often misinterpreted as traditional caries due to its radiographic appearance,3however requires careful evaluation for determination of treatment and long term success. Case report: This case report details a 13 year old …

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 …

Micro-Ct Evaluation Of Root Canal Transportation And Centering Ability In Mesial Canals Of Mandibular First Molars, Selen Ince Yusufoglu, Esma Saricam, Mert Ocak, Ferhat Geneci, Burak Bilecenoğlu

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: This study aimed to evaluate canal transportation, centering ability, structure model index (SMI), surface area, and root canal volume changes in the mesial canals of mandibular first molars using micro-CT.

Methods: Twenty-four mandibular first molars with two separate mesial canals and moderate curvature were included. Teeth were scanned using micro-CT before instrumentation and randomly divided into three groups (N = 8). Root canals were prepared using OneShape, OneCurve, and Rotate file systems, followed by post-instrumentation micro-CT scanning (10µm/pixel resolution). Changes in canal volume, surface area, transportation, centering ability, and SMI were analyzed at the apical, middle, and …

In Silico Model Of Musa Acuminata Stem As An Anticancer On Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Against Egfr, Nevrila Dewi Rachmayani, Amy Nindia Carabelly, I Wayan Arya Krishnawan Firdaus, Maharani Laillyza Apriasari, Juliyatin Putri Utami

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is characterized by overexpression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Citral, eucalyptol, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), which are derived from Musa acuminata, have shown anticancer activity. This study evaluated the potential of citral, eucalyptol, and CAPE from Musa acuminata as anticancer agents for OSCC by targeting EGFR using an in silico approach.

Methods: Potential biological activity was predicted using Prediction of Activity Spectra for Substances (PASS) Online. Molecular docking was conducted with AutoDock Vina, and BIOVIA Discovery Studio was used to analyze binding affinity, interaction types, and bond …

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 …

Oral Rehabilitation Of A Pediatric Patient With A Dental Anomaly: A Case Report, Enas Almasri, Mohamed Altinawi, Shadi Azzawi, Imad Katbeh, Anas Abdo

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Objective: Tooth fusion is an uncommon dental abnormality, occurring in 0.1% of permanent dentition. Fusion of a normal permanent tooth and a supernumerary tooth is unusual. This case report delineates a multidisciplinary strategy for the management of a child with a fused tooth and a concomitant supernumerary tooth. The objective is to progressively illustrate the aesthetic and functional restoration of a smile impacted by a dental fusion abnormality.

Case Report: A 9-year-old boy was referred to the pediatric dental clinic with the chief complaint of a large upper anterior tooth. Intraoral and radiographic investigations showed fusion of the permanent maxillary …

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.

Beyond Sugar: Nutrient Patterns And Dental Caries Risk In Us Children Using Explainable Machine Learning, Sydney M. Sorensen, Bailey Axelrad, Shilpa Bhandi, Frank W. Licari, Shankargouda Patil

Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

The Mouth As A Mirror: A Parent- Hygienist’S Ethical Reflections On Oral Healthcare And Pompe Disease, Anika Atkins Ma, Rdh

Journal of the American College of Dentists

This reflective narrative explores the ethical tensions and emotional realities of a dental hygienist who is also the parent of a child with Pompe disease. Drawing from personal experience and care ethics philosophy, the author examines how traditional clinical frameworks—centered on autonomy, beneficence, and protocol— often fall short when addressing the needs of medically fragile children. The piece weaves in the work of care ethicists and pastoral ministry to embrace the philosophy of caregiving as presence, to suggest that oral healthcare must evolve to include responsiveness, context, and relationship-based decision-making. Through the dual lens of provider and parent, the narrative …

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 …

Using Laughter As A Tool In Pediatric Dentistry, Stephen Ghezzi Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores the physiological and psychological benefits of humor in pediatric settings. Laughter counteracts the "fight or flight" response by releasing dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which reduce stress hormones and muscle tension. It also triggers oxytocin, fostering trust between patients, caregivers, and staff. The author encourages practitioners to use lightheartedness, such as "dad jokes," to mitigate the anxiety often associated with procedures like restorations or extractions. By shifting the body into "rest and digest" mode, laughter improves the overall well-being of the dental team and patients alike.

Pediatric Dentists’ Best Practices When Treating Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: A National Survey, Samita Gumber Bds, Mds, James R. Boynton Dds, Ms, Larry B. Salzmann Dds, Rodney J. Vergotine Bchd, Msc(Dent), Faapd, Fiadt, Fabpd, Ficd, Marita R. Inglehart Dipl. Psych., Dr. Phil., Dr. Phil. Habil

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This national survey evaluates how pediatric dentists manage patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While most practitioners collect data on oral hygiene and verbal communication, fewer assess social interaction or sensitivity-related characteristics. The study suggests using supplemental intake forms to plan appointments based on individual needs and functioning levels. Key accommodations reported include behavior guidance, modified appointment times, and operatory adjustments. Results indicate that increased professional experience with ASD correlates with more comprehensive data collection and a higher perceived value of that information. Ultimately, partnering with parents is vital for creating successful dental encounters for children with ASD.

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 …

What About Our Teen-Age Patients?, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial advocates for "mentally treating" teenage patients, specifically those around 14 years of age, as adults. By respecting their concerns and allowing age-appropriate decisions, clinicians can enhance a teen's dental IQ and self-esteem. This approach fosters confidence, communication, and independence, encouraging patients to take accountability for their treatment outcomes. Respectful dialogue leads to better compliance with home care, such as using rotary brushes or wearing retainers. Ultimately, treating teenagers with empathy and valuing their opinions helps them blossom into responsible adults while building lasting professional bonds.

Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization: Diagnosis, Management, And Treatment, Giovana Anovazzi Medeiros Dds, Msc, Phd, Bahareh Enghiad Dmd, James R. Boynton Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is a qualitative developmental enamel defect affecting at least one permanent first molar. Characterized by high porosity and reduced mineral content, MIH leads to hypersensitivity, post-eruptive breakdown, and increased caries susceptibility. The etiology is multifactorial, typically occurring between birth and four years of age. Management depends on severity, ranging from topical fluorides and sealants for mild cases to stainless-steel crowns or extractions for severe instances. Because porous enamel facilitates bacterial penetration and pulpal inflammation, achieving effective local anesthesia is often difficult, necessitating individualized behavioral management and early intervention to preserve tooth structure.

A Comprehensive Analysis Of The Accurate Diagnosis Of Chronic Non-Bacterial Osteomyelitis Of The Jaw In Young Patients: An Assessment Of Clinical And Laboratory Data, Alexander Yu Kugushev, Andrey V. Lopatin, Suzan Dagher

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Objectives: Chronic non-bacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) is a rare autoinflammatory bone disorder predominantly affecting pediatric and adolescent populations. The clinical presentation is heterogeneous, with persistent pain and swelling representing the most frequent and often initial symptoms. These manifestations are commonly localized to the mandible, although involvement of other skeletal sites, including long bones, clavicle, and vertebrae, may occur in more advanced cases. Beyond localized symptoms, some patients exhibit mild systemic features such as low-grade fever, fatigue, or malaise; however, these systemic signs are generally less pronounced than those observed in infectious osteomyelitis. The diagnostic evaluation of CNO is intricate and necessitates …

Management Of Anterior Teeth Affected By Molar Incisor Hypomineralization Using Resin Infiltration Technique: A Case Report, Atika Bouabid, Selsebil Laajimi, Yamina Elelmi, Fatma Masmoudi, Ahlem Baaziz

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Background: Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is a developmental enamel defect affecting first permanent molars and often incisors, presenting unique restorative challenges. In line with minimally invasive dentistry, the “Würzburg concept” promotes conservative management strategies with resin infiltration.

Objectives: This case report investigates the impact of modifications to the ICON resin infiltration protocol on esthetic outcomes and adhesion in MIH-affected anterior teeth.

Method: Three clinical cases involving MIH lesions on anterior teeth were treated using the Icon® resin infiltration system by DMG (Hamburg, Germany).

Results: Preconditioning hypomineralized enamel with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite followed by resin infiltration enhances the physical integrity of composite …

Investigate The Role Of Tgfβ3 In Regulating Irf6 And Δnp63 In Periderm Desquamation, Nam Ha

Theses & Dissertations

Introduction: Failure in palatal fusion during palate development results in cleft palate, one of the most common birth defects in the US. During the final phases of palatogenesis, the palatal periderm (a protective cell layer that prevents premature fusion and adhesion with oral epithelium) must be removed, also known as desquamation. This process is a prerequisite for establishing the midline seam in the fused palate. Previous studies have shown that transforming growth factor-β3 (TGFβ3) plays an irreplaceable role in palate development in mice. Our previously published mechanistic models outline the role of TGFβ3 and its downstream signaling cascade involving proteins …

Musculoskeletal Disorders In Dentistry: An Insight Into Dental Techniques And Practices, Mehwash Kashif, Aman Ashar, Amna Rehman, Abdul Aleem, Sidra-Tul-Muntaha Hashmi, Muhammad Yousuf Ali

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Objective: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are common workplace hazards in dentistry resulting from poor ergonomics and static postures, which lead to back, neck, and upper limb (shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand) problems among dentists, resulting in harm to their health, productivity, and career. This study aimed to assess the frequency of MSDs, risk factors related to MSDs, and awareness of ergonomics among clinicians. Methods: Data were collected from 400 dental professionals, including house officers, postgraduate trainees, general dentists, and teachers/consultants, each with at least 12 months of practice. Data were collected using a structured, closed-ended questionnaire. Before data collection, ethical approval …

Attitudes Of New York State Pediatric Dentists Toward Treating Hasidic Patients, Gideon Turk Dmd, Michelle Goldstein Dmd

The New York State Dental Journal

Purpose: This survey investigated variations in practices among pediatric dentists and dental residents in New York State concerning the treatment of Hasidic, Haredi or Ultra-Orthodox Jewish (HHUOJ) patients.

Methods and Results: The 16-question survey was distributed to 641 AAPD pediatric dentists and residents via email. Results were analyzed across six variables using the Mann-Whitney U Test. Statistically significant differences were observed in the responses to 14 of 16 questions.

Conclusion: The study revealed statistically significant variations in various aspects related to the treatment of HHUOJ patients, suggesting the need for further education among providers in New York State.

Management Of A Periapical Cyst In An 8-Year-Old Patient With Challenging Etiology: A Case Report With Three-Year Follow-Up, Nancy Nochahrly, Claire El Hachem, Josephine El Balaa, Elie Khoury, Christelle Abdel Nour, Marlene Khoury

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

The success of pulp therapy in primary teeth depends on accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Periapical inflammation due to bacterial infection or pulpal necrosis can result in granulation tissue and may activate epithelial rests of Malassez, leading to a periapical cyst. In large cysts, especially in children, marsupialization is preferred to preserve developing teeth and minimize damage to surrounding structures. This case report describes an 8-year-old presenting with spontaneous pain in the lower right jaw. Radiographic examination revealed a round welldefined radiolucency over 1 cm around tooth #84 with root canal treatment and #85 with pulpotomy, with dental bud displacement. …

A Clinical Investigation Of The Correlation Of Black Stains With Oral Cavity Ph And Dental Caries Presence In Children: A Cross-Sectional Study, Maguy Sfeir, Nada Chedid

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Introduction: Black stains (BS) on teeth often lead to dental visits in children due to their esthetic impact. Beyond cosmetic concerns, black stains may play a role in oral health, potentially suggesting a lower risk of dental caries through the regulation of oral microbiota and pH levels. Understanding the association of black stains with oral pH and caries presence can offer insights into protective and preventive strategies in pediatric dentistry.

Objectives: the purpose of this study is to assess the correlation between black stains, oral cavity pH, and the presence of caries in a sample of 6-to 8- …