Showing papers in "International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry in 2010"

Molar incisor hypomineralization: prevalence, severity and clinical consequences in Brazilian children

Abstract: Sao Paulo State Univ, Araraquara Sch Dent, Res Dept Pediat Dent, UNESP Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Trends in paediatric dental caries by poverty status in the United States, 1988-1994 and 1999-2004.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 132–143 Background. Recent reports have suggested that dental caries among some young children is increasing in the United States. Aim. To describe changes in paediatric caries prevalence by poverty status in the United States. Design. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data for children aged 2–11 years for 1988–1994 and 1999–2004 were used. Results. Caries in the primary dentition increased among poor and non-poor boys aged 2–8 years (45–53% and 23–31%, respectively) and among non-poor boys aged 2–5 years (13–21%) from 1988–1994 to 1999–2004. Caries experience also increased on buccal-lingual, mesio-distal, and occlusal primary dental surfaces among poor children aged 2–8 years and this increase may be attributed to an increase in the number of dental surfaces restored. In the mixed dentition, caries remains relatively unchanged. Caries continues to decline in the permanent dentition for many children, but is increasing among poor non-Hispanic whites aged 6–8 years (8–22%) and poor Mexican-Americans aged 9–11 years (38–55%). Conclusions. For many older children, caries continues to decline or remain unchanged. Nevertheless, for a subgroup of younger children, caries is increasing and this increase is impacting some traditionally low-risk groups of children.

Empirical evidence of the relationship between parental and child dental fear: a structured review and meta-analysis.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 83–101 Background. The relationship between parental and child dental fear has been studied for over a century. During this time, the concept of dental fear as well as methodological approaches to studying dental fear in children have evolved considerably. Aim. To provide an overview of the published empirical evidence on the link between parental and child dental fear. Design. A structured literature review and meta-analysis. Results. Forty-three experimental studies from across the six continents were included in the review. The studies ranged widely with respect to research design, methods used, age of children included, and the reported link between parental and child dental fear. The majority of studies confirmed a relationship between parental and child dental fear. This relationship is most evident in children aged 8 and under. A meta-analysis of the available data also confirmed an association between parental and child dental fear. Conclusion. The narrative synthesis as well as the meta-analysis demonstrate a significant relationship between parental and child dental fear, particularly in children 8 years and younger.

Factors affecting dental fear in French children aged 5-12 years.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 366–373 Background. While dental anxiety is often correlated with prior negative dental experience, prevention of dental anxiety should in theory include early exposure to the dental setting. Objective. We set out to evaluate factors affecting dental fear in French children. Methods. Dental fear was evaluated using a visual analogue scale (DF-VAS) in a group of 1303 French children (681 boys and 622 girls) aged 5–11 years (mean: 8.12 years, SD: 1.42 years). Indicators of caries and oral hygiene were evaluated on dental examination. Indicators of well-being related to oral health, dental experience, and oral health education were collected via a structured interview. Results. Dental fear was scored low in 75.7% (DF-VAS 0–3), moderate in 16.7% (DF-VAS 4–6), and high in 7.6% (DF-VAS 7–10). DF-VAS decreased statistically with experience of a prior dental visit. Children who had at least one decayed tooth presented a higher level of dental fear than those with no decay, while children with fillings were significantly less anxious than those without previous dental care. Conclusions. This study shows that for children aged 5–12 years, prior experience of the dental setting can act as a positive component of dental fear.

British Society of Paediatric Dentistry: a policy document on management of caries in the primary dentition.

Abstract: Dental caries is still one of the most prevalent diseases of children in the United Kingdom. Although a significant decline in caries experience in children has been observed over the last few decades, this improvement ceased in the primary dentitions of younger children in the early 1980s and since then the only change has been an increasing polarisation with more of the disease occurring in a smaller proportion of the population. This situation has been compounded by a reduction in the proportion of dental caries treated by fillings, particularly in the younger age groups. The British Society of Paediatric Dentistry believes that dental services in the United Kingdom are failing to meet the needs of many younger children and urgent steps must be taken to improve the standard of dental health among this vulnerable group.

Oral health‐related quality of life of children with oligodontia

Abstract: Objectives. To assess the functional and psychosocial impact of oligodontia in children aged 11–14 years. Methods. Children aged 11–14 years with oligodontia were recruited from orthodontic clinics when they presented for orthodontic evaluation. All completed a copy of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire for 11- to 14-year olds, a measure of the functional and psychosocial impact of oral disorders. Information on the number and pattern of missing teeth for each child were obtained from charts and radiographs. Results. Thirty-six children were included in the study. The number of missing teeth ranged from one to 14 (mean = 6.8). Just over three-quarters of the subjects reported experiencing one or more functional and psychosocial impacts ‘Often’ or ‘Everyday/almost everyday’. Correlations between scale and sub-scale scores and the number of missing teeth were weak and nonsignificant. Conclusions. Children with oligodontia experience substantial functional and psychosocial impacts from the condition. When compared with other clinical groups, children with oligodontia appear to have worse oral health-related quality of life than children with dental decay and malocclusion, but better oral health-related quality of life than children with oro-facial conditions.

Clinical evaluation of 3Mix and Vitapex as treatment options for pulpally involved primary molars

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 214–221 Objective. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic success of 3Mix and Vitapex® for root canal treatment of pulpally involved primary molars. Methods. Fifty teeth from 37 healthy children aged 3–8 years with pulpally involved primary molars needing root canal procedures were treated with 3Mix or Vitapex® before restoration with stainless steel crowns. The research employed a prospective single-blinded randomized design. The subjects were followed up clinically and radiographically at 6 and 12 months, respectively. The outcome was compared using a Z-test with a significance level of 0.05. Results. Both groups showed 100% and 96% clinical success at 6 and 12 months, respectively. At 6 months, radiographic success of 3Mix and Vitapex® was 84% and 80%, respectively, and at 12 months, radiographic success of 3Mix and Vitapex® was 76% and 56%, respectively. Considering the radiographic findings at the end of 6 and 12 months, no statistically significant differences were found between the two groups (P = 0.356 and 0.068, respectively). Conclusion. 3Mix and Vitapex® can be used as a root canal treatment agent in pulpally involved primary teeth.

Maxillary dental anomalies in children with cleft lip and palate: a controlled study.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 442–450 Objective. To evaluate the prevalence of dental abnormalities of the primary and permanent maxillary dentitions in children affected by unilateral (UCLP) and bilateral (BCLP) cleft of the lip and palate. Methods. One hundred and fifty-six Caucasian patients (64 females and 92 males) affected by non-syndromic UCLP or BLCP were selected. A control sample of 1000 subjects (482 males and 518 females) without CLP was selected. All comparisons were carried out by means of z-tests on proportions. Results. The prevalence rate for missing primary lateral incisors in UCLP subjects was 8.1% and it was 27.9% for the permanent lateral incisors. In BLCP subjects, the prevalence rates were 17% for the primary lateral incisors and 60% for the permanent lateral incisors. The second premolar was absent in 5.4% of UCLP subjects and in 8.8% in the BCLP sample. The statistical analysis revealed significant differences for the prevalence rates of all dental anomalies compared with the control group except for second premolar agenesis. Conclusions. In both UCLP and BCLP subjects the most prevalent missing teeth were the lateral incisors. The dental anomalies occurred predominantly in the cleft area, thus suggesting that the effect of the cleft disturbance is more local than general on the dentition.

A comparison of the sialochemistry, oral pH, and oral health status of down syndrome children to healthy children

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 235–241 Background: The aetiology of low caries incidence in Down syndrome (DS) children is not entirely clear Aim To compare sialochemistry and oral mucosal pH between Down syndrome children with caries (DS-Ca) and caries free (DS-CaF), and healthy children with caries (C-Ca) and caries free (C-CaF) Design The study group comprised 70 children with DS (mean age 441 ± 19 years); 32 healthy children (mean age 922 ± 27 years) served as control Groups were further subdivided according to caries status: DS-Ca, DS-CaF, C-Ca and C-CaF Sialochemistry analysis included calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), potassium (K), and chloride (Cl) Mucosal pH, plaque and gingival indices (PI and GI), and caries status were recorded Results DMFT/dmft were significantly lower in the DS group Cl and Ca levels were significantly higher in the DS-Ca compared to the C-Ca and the C-CaF children Na and K were significantly higher in DS-Ca group compared to DS-CaF group PI and GI were significantly higher in DS-C children compared to DS-CaF children Conclusions DS may manifest itself in the salivary glands Consequently, different electrolyte salivary environment may form, leading to lower caries rates among DS children

Oral health in preschool children with cerebral palsy: a case-control community-based study.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 330-335 Objectives. To assess and compare the oral health status of preschool children with and without cerebral palsy (CP). Methods. Preschool children with CP (72) were recruited from 23 Special Child Care Centers in Hong Kong. An age (+/-3 months) and gender matched sample of preschool children from mainstream preschools were recruited as the control group. Dental caries status, gingival health status, tooth wear, developmental defect of enamel, malocclusion, dental trauma and oral mucosal health were assessed and compared between the two groups. Results. Significant differences in gingival health status were found between children with and without CP (mean plaque index scores, P = 0.001 and mean gingival index scores, P 0.05), prevalence of enamel defects (P > 0.05) and dental trauma (P > 0.05). Conclusions. Differences of oral health status exist among preschool children with and without CP. Preschool children fare worse in terms of gingival health, tooth wear, oral mucosal health and malocclusion.

Dental behaviour management problems: the role of child personal characteristics

Abstract: Aim: This study aimed to investigate the role of dental fear (DF) and other personal characteristics in relation to dental behaviour management problems (DBMP).Design: A study group of 230 patients ...

Dentinogenesis imperfecta in children with osteogenesis imperfecta: a clinical and ultrastructural study.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 112–118 Aim. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) and dentinogenesis imperfecta (DI) from both a clinical and histological point of view, particularly clarifying the structural and ultrastructural dentine changes. Design. Sixteen children (6–12 years aged) with diagnosis of OI were examined for dental alterations referable to DI. For each patient, the OI type (I, III, or IV) was recorded. Extracted or normally exfoliated primary teeth were subjected to a histological examination (to both optical microscopy and confocal laser-scanning microscopy). Results. A total of ten patients had abnormal discolourations referable to DI: four patients were affected by OI type I, three patients by OI type III, and three patients by OI type IV. The discolourations, yellow/brown or opalescent grey, could not be related to the different types of OI. Histological exam of primary teeth showed severe pathological change in the dentin, structured into four different layers. A collagen defect due to odontoblast dysfunction was theorized to be on the base of the histological changes. Conclusions. There is no correlation between the type of OI and the type of discolouration. The underlying dentinal defect seems to be related to an odontoblast dysfunction.

The longevity of different restorations in primary teeth.

Abstract: Background and aim. This paper reviews three published papers and adds results from a fourth study which aimed to determine which restorative material would be the best alternative(s) to amalgam (AM) in primary teeth. Design. All studies had a practice-based design and were part of the routine treatment of children and adolescents. The clinicians were assigned which materials to use in a randomised matter in the first three studies which lasted for 7–8 years. In the fourth study conducted 4 years after the initial studies, the clinicians were free to select the restorative materials. Results and conclusions. Resin modified glass ionomer (RMGI) and compomer (COM) restorations showed similar longevity compared with AM, whereas conventional GI restorations showed significantly shorter longevity. The studies indicated that the ‘new and improved’ materials based on in vitro tests did not always show enhanced clinical properties. In the last study, where clinicians freely selected the restorative materials they used in their practices, seven used COM, one used conventional GI materials and one used a combination of the two types of material.

Factors increasing the caries risk of second primary molars in 5-year-old Dutch children.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 151-157 Background: Caries is still a prevalent condition in 5-year-old children. At present, knowledge regarding some aetiological factors, like deciduous molar hypomineralization (DMH), is limited. Aim: To investigate aetiological factors both directly and indirectly associated with caries in second primary molars. Design: Of 974 children invited to participate in the study, 386 children were examined clinically with visual detection of caries. Only carious lesions determined to have reached the dentine were recorded. Information about tooth brushing frequency, education level of the mother, and country of birth of mother and child, was collected by means of a multiple-choice questionnaire. Parents of 452 children filled in the questionnaire. Complete clinical and questionnaire data were available for 242 children. Statistical analysis of the effect of the independent variables was undertaken using the Pearson's chi-squared test. Results: Deciduous molar hypomineralization (P = 0.02) and the country of birth of the mother (P < 0.001) were positively associated with caries prevalence. Conclusions: Deciduous molar hypomineralization and the country of birth of the mother play a role in the prevalence of dental caries. These aetiological factors associated with childhood dental caries need to be investigated further in longitudinal clinical trials. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 BSPD, IAPD and Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Trends in dental caries in 1- to 4-year-old children in a Brazilian city between 1997 and 2008.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 125–131 Objective. The objective of this study was to assess trends in dental caries prevalence and severity in 1- to 4 year-old children living in Diadema, Brazil, over a 11-year period, from 1997 to 2008. Methods. In 2008 an epidemiological oral health survey was carried out and the results on caries were compared with five cross-sectional studies carried out using the same methods and criteria in 1997, 1999, 2002, 2004, and 2006 in the same city. In all surveys, children were randomly selected from those attending a National Day of Children’s Vaccination. Calibrated dentists carried out the clinical examination using WHO criteria. Caries trends were assessed by time-lag analysis. In total, 5348 children were examined in the six surveys over the 11-year period. Results. Time-lag analysis showed a marked and statistically significant decline in the prevalence (χ2 for trends: P < 0.001) and severity (Kruskal–Wallis: P < 0.001) of dental caries between 1997 and 2008. Conclusion. In conclusion, the last cohort of preschool children in Diadema had much better dental caries status than those in 1997.

Linking the clinical presentation of molar‐incisor hypomineralisation to its mineral density

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 353–360 Background. The in vitro methods used for the assessment of the severity of molar-incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) are not available for clinicians faced with questions regarding the severity in clinical cases, and the best management approach. Aim. To assess whether there is a relation between the severity of the defects in MIH enamel (represented by reduction in the mineral density) and the clinical presentation (represented by the colour of the defect and its laser fluorescence). Design. The colour of enamel was recorded (normal, white, yellow or brown) in specific areas for ten extracted first permanent molars with MIH defects and ten extracted sound teeth. Laser fluorescence (LF) and mineral density (MD) were measured for the same areas. A mixed model, using sample/tooth as a random effect, was used to estimate the relationship between the MD and the colour-coding, and between the MD and LF readings. Results. The between-samples correlation coefficient for the colour coding and the MD was 0.99 (P < 0.001), and 0.83 (P < 0.001) for the LF and MD. Conclusions. The degree of staining of MIH enamel, as assessed visually or by LF, may be used clinically to reflect the severity of the defect.

Danish dentists' and dental hygienists' knowledge of and experience with suspicion of child abuse or neglect.

Abstract: Background. Studies from several countries have shown that knowledge of child protection matters among the dental team is inadequate. No such data are available from Denmark. Aim. To describe dental teams perception of their role in child protection matters. Design. A previously used questionnaire regarding the role of the dental team in child protection was adopted to Danish terminology, and mailed to a sample of Danish dentists and dental hygienists. Results. A total of 1145 (76.3%) returned a questionnaire with valid data; 38.3% reported to have had suspicion of child abuse or neglect. Of those who reported a suspicion, 33.9% had reported their suspicion to social services. This was more frequent for dentists than for dental hygienists, and more frequent for respondents working in the municipal dental service than in private practice. Most frequently reported barriers towards referring suspicion to social services were uncertainty about observations, fear of violence in the family towards the child, and lack of knowledge regarding referral procedures. The majority of the respondents expressed a need for further education. Conclusions. Members of the dental team in Denmark do not seem to fill their role sufficiently in child protection matters, and perceive a need for undergraduate and continuing postgraduate training. Language: en

Oral health in pre-school children with asthma - followed from 3 to 6 years

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate caries and its determinants in preschool children with and without asthma, followed from 3 to 6 years METHODS AND SUBJECTS: Caries, plaque, and

UK National Clinical Guidelines in Paediatric Dentistry. Treatment of traumatically intruded permanent incisor teeth in children

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010 Summary. The process of guideline production began in 1994, resulting in first publication in 1997. Each guideline has been circulated to all Consultants in Paediatric Dentistry in the UK, to the Council of the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry, and to people of related specialties recognised to have expertise in the subject. The final version of the guideline is produced from a combination of this input and thorough review of the published literature. The intention is to encourage improvement in clinical practice and to stimulate research and clinical audit in areas where scientific evidence is inadequate. Evidence underlying recommendations is scored according to the SIGN classification and guidelines should be read in this context. For those wishing further detail, the process of guideline production in the UK is described in the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 1997; 7: 267–268.

Caries risk profiles in schoolchildren over 2 years assessed by Cariogram.

Abstract: Background. Caries risk assessment is an important tool in clinical decision making. Aim. To evaluate longitudinal changes in caries risk profiles in a group of schoolchildren in relation to caries development. Design. The Cariogram model was used to create caries risk profiles and to identify risk factors in 438 children being 10-11 years at baseline. The assessment was repeated after 2 years and the caries increment was recorded. The frequency of unfavourable risk factors were compared between those considered at the lowest and the highest risk. Results. Fifty percent of the children remained in the same risk category after 2 years. One third of the children were assessed in a higher-risk category while 18.4% showed a lower risk. Those with increased risk compared with baseline developed significantly more caries than those with an unchanged risk category. The most frequent unfavourable risk factors among those with high risk at baseline were high-salivary mutans streptococci and lactobacilli counts as well as frequent meals. Conclusion. Half of the children showed a changed risk category after 2 years, for better or for worse, which suggests that regular risk assessments are needed in order to make appropriate decisions on targeted preventive care and recall intervals. (Less)

A comparison of inhalation sedation agents in the management of children receiving dental treatment: a randomized, controlled, cross-over pilot trial.

Abstract: Aims. First, to compare the relative effectiveness of inhalation sedation using (A) nitrous oxide and oxygen with (B) nitrous oxide, sevoflurane, and oxygen in the management of children receiving dental extractions. Secondly, to determine patient and guardian preference between the two sedation techniques. Materials and methods. A randomized, controlled, double-blinded, cross-over, pilot clinical trial was undertaken. Thirty patients aged 6–15 years, ASA category I or II, who required two identical dental extractions with inhalation sedation were recruited. At the first session, patients were randomly allocated to receiving treatment with sedation Method A or B. At the second session, the alternative sedation protocol was employed. Results. Overall, 80% of patients successfully completed treatment at both appointments. There was no statistically significant difference between either the success rate of the two methods or in guardian preference between the two modes of sedation. There was a statistically significant difference in patient preference in favour of Method B. Conclusions. The results from this pilot study would suggest no increased benefit, in terms of treatment completion, from the additional use of sevoflurane in combination with nitrous oxide and oxygen. There was, however, a small but significant patient preference in favour of nitrous oxide with sevoflurane and oxygen.

Oral health in 12‐ to 17‐year‐old athletes participating in the German Special Olympics

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 451–457 Background. There is a lack of actual data regarding oral health in children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities. Aim. To evaluate the oral health in adolescents with intellectual disabilities participating in the German Special Olympics games 2008. Methods. A free voluntary dental examination was offered to the participating athletes. Dental examinations were performed according to WHO criteria by dental clinicians. In addition, information about the athletes’ oral hygiene habits was collected. Results. The number of adolescent athletes aged between 12 and 17 years who had their teeth examined was 160. On average they were 15.3 years old. Caries prevalence was 58.1% and the mean DMFT was 2.3. The mean number of fissure sealed teeth was 2.5. About half of the participants showed signs of gum inflammation. The proportion of the adolescents living at home with their parents was 88%. More than 90% of them brushed their teeth by themselves without assistance. Conclusions. Adolescents with intellectual disabilities seem to have benefited from various caries preventive measures which had been introduced during the last two decades in Germany but still have a poorer oral health than the general population. More specific prevention programmes seeking close cooperation with parents, custodians, and caretakers should be developed.

Remembering and repeating childhood dental treatment experiences: parents, their children, and barriers to dental care.

Abstract: Background. Despite improvements over the past two decades, caries and its treatment remain a problem for Scottish children. Aim. To investigate how the reported childhood dental care experiences of a group of Scottish parents impacted upon the dental treatment they accessed for their children. Study design. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 parents of varied age and social background whose children were referred to Dundee Dental Hospital for the assessment of dental extractions. Parents were encouraged to discuss their own and their child’s experiences of dental care. The interview data were systematically coded using key theme headings, and summary charts constructed to facilitate the analysis. Results. A sense of ‘uneasiness’ pervaded the parents’ comments and perceptions of the dental care provided for their children. This was conceptualized as parents ‘remembering in words’ and ‘repeating through actions’ their own childhood dental experiences. They remembered and repeated their childhood experiences by delaying dental treatment for themselves and their children. Conclusions. Acknowledging the influence of parental dental experience would help ensure that parents of young children access routine care for their children and themselves.

Two years survival rate of Class II ART restorations in primary molars using two ways to avoid saliva contamination

Abstract: AIM To compare the survival rates of Class II Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) restorations placed in primary molars using cotton rolls or rubber dam as isolation methods. METHODS A total of 232 children, 6-7 years old, both genders, were selected having one primary molar with proximal dentine lesion. The children were randomly assigned into two groups: control group with Class II ART restoration made using cotton rolls and experimental group using rubber dam. The restorations were evaluated by eight calibrated evaluators (Kappa > 0.8) after 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. RESULTS A total of 48 (20.7%) children were considered dropout, after 24 months. The cumulative survival rate after 6, 12, 18 and 24 months was 61.4%, 39.0%, 29.1% and 18.0%, respectively for the control group, and 64.1%, 55.1%, 40.1% and 32.1%, respectively for the rubber dam group. The log rank test for censored data showed no statistical significant difference between the groups (P = 0.07). The univariate Cox Regression showed no statistical significant difference after adjusting for independent variables (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION Both groups had similar survival rates, and after 2 years, the use of rubber dam does not increase the success of Class II ART restorations significantly.

Characterization of enamel in primary teeth by optical coherence tomography for assessment of dental caries.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 158–164 Background. Caries is a disease that affects both primary and permanent dentitions, therefore new methods of caries diagnosis need to be tested on primary teeth as well as on permanent teeth. Aim. This study reports the application of optical coherence tomography (OCT) to characterize sound dental structure and detect natural caries of human primary teeth. Design. Six primary teeth were sectioned into thin slices (∼1.5 mm), and analysed perpendicular to the enamel surface by two home-made OCT systems operating around 1280 and 840 nm. The generated images were compared with histology as the gold standard. Results. We demonstrated the efficacy of the OCT technique to measure the depth of the enamel layer, whose result was statistically compared with histology (P = 0.823; P > 0.05) with good agreement. We also determined, through measurement of contrast values, an increase in backscattered intensity of the order of two to three times between sound and caries regions. Conclusions. We employed OCT generated images to characterize the enamel layer. The technique showed great potential to be used on paediatric dentistry clinical on early caries detection with no pain, as it is a noninvasive method.

Dental agenesis in Kallmann syndrome individuals with FGFR1 mutations

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 305–312 Background Kallmann syndrome (KS) is a rare genetic disorder characterised by central hypogonadism with a lack of sense of smell and in some cases renal aplasia, deafness, syndactyly, cleft lip/palate, and dental agenesis To date, five genes for KS have been identified: KAL1, located on the X chromosome, and FGFR1, PROKR2, PROK2 and FGF8, which are involved in autosomally transmitted forms of KS Aim The study characterised the dental ageneses of individuals with KS associated with mutations in the FGFR1 gene Design Six individuals displaying dental agenesis were included Clinical and radiological dental evaluations as well as medical anamneses were carried out Results Microdontia, screwdriver-shaped mandibular incisors, thin molar roots, and patterns of dental agenesis in both dentitions were observed One to nine teeth were missing, most frequently, in descending order, lateral mandibular incisors, second premolars of upper and lower jaws, and lateral maxillary incisors The pattern of dental agenesis is associated with four new mutations in the FGFR1 gene Conclusion: Dental agenesis may be a clinical feature of Kallmann syndrome caused by a mutation in the FGFR1 gene These findings highlight the role that odontologists can play in the early diagnosis and treatment of gonadotropic deficiency

A clinical evaluation of two glass ionomer cements in primary molars using atraumatic restorative treatment technique in India: 1 year follow up.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 410–418 Aim. To compare the clinical performance of two glass ionomer cements, Amalgomer CR and Fuji IX in small and medium cavities prepared using Atraumatic restorative treatment approach in India. Study design. One hundred school children in the age group of 4–9 years who had bilateral matched pair of carious lesions in primary posterior teeth were included. A split mouth design was used in which two materials were randomly placed in contralateral sides. The performance of the restorations was assessed after 1 year using Frenken’s criteria (1996).Survival analysis of restoration was done using chi-square test. Results. The survival rate of Amalgomer CR and Fuji IX class I restorations were 97.4% and 94.9%, respectively. In class II cavities 95.1% and 88.5% of Amalgomer CR and Fuji IX restorations were successful. Amalgomer CR and Fuji IX showed a success of 94.2% and 92.3% in small sized class II cavities. Amalgomer CR showed a 100% success for medium sized class I and II restorations. Whereas Fuji IX showed a 100% and 66.7% success in medium sized class I and II cavities. Conclusion. The clinical performances of both materials were satisfactory at the end of 1 year and ART is suitable procedure to be done in a dental clinic for children.

Implications of gluten exposure period, CD clinical forms, and HLA typing in the association between celiac disease and dental enamel defects in children. A case-control study.

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 119–124 Background. The association between coeliac disease (CD) and dental enamel defects (DED) is well known. Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of DED in children with CD and to specifically find the association of DED and gluten exposure period, CD clinical forms, HLA class II haplotype. Design. This study was designed as a matched case–control study: 250 children were enrolled (125 coeliac children – 79 female and 46 male, 7.2 ± 2.8 years and 125 healthy children). Data about age at CD diagnosis, CD clinical form, and HLA haplotype were recorded. Results. Dental enamel defects were detected in 58 coeliac subjects (46.4%) against seven (5.6%) controls (P < 0.005). We found an association between DED and gluten exposure period, as among CD subjects the mean age at CD diagnosis was significantly (P = 0.0004) higher in the group with DED (3.41 ± 1.27) than without DED (1.26 ± 0.7). DED resulted more frequent (100%) in atypical and silent CD forms than in the typical one (30.93%). The presence of HLA DR 52-53 and DQ7antigens significantly increased the risk of DED (P = 0.0017) in coeliac children. Conclusions. Our results confirmed a possible correlation between HLA antigens and DED.

Long-term follow up of root canal treated primary molars

Abstract: International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 207–213 Background. Root canal treatment (RCT) is commonly performed to preserve primary molars with an infected or necrotic pulp. Aim. This study evaluates the long-term effects of RCT in primary molars on the development and eruption of their permanent successors. Methods. This is a retrospective study of treatment of pulpectomised primary molars in a public dental clinic. All teeth were treated by the same operator using the same material (Endoflas F.S.) and the same method. Records of 194 patients with 242 pulpectomised primary molars (124 in 97 boys and 118 in 97 girls) met the inclusion criteria. The children’s age at the time of treatment ranged from 5 to 11 years (mean 6.72). Follow-up time ranged from 6 to 113 months (mean 33.5). Results. Eight (3.3%) of the 242 primary molars presented a new radiolucent defect or enlargement of existing periapical radiolucency. Of the 106 molars followed until eruption of the permanent successor, none had radiographic pathological signs. Of 17 permanent teeth evaluated clinically, three were erupted into a rotated alignment, and one premolar presented hypocalcified defect in the enamel. Conclusions. Failure of root canal treatment in primary molars may be evident from development of new radiolucent defects or enlargement of existing defects. No relationship was found between RCT in the primary molars and the appearance of enamel defects or the ectopic eruption of following permanent teeth.

Effectiveness of a presentation on infant oral health care for parents

Abstract: Purpose. The aim of this study was to evaluate an infant oral health education programme, using a pre–post test design, for parents attending a paediatric clinic. Methods. The subjects were parents attending the well baby appointments at 3, 6, and 9 months of age. The study participants were men and women, all with an infant between 3 and 12 months of age. A 16 question assessment in the form of a questionnaire was completed immediately before and after the introduction of a 30 min educational intervention in the form of a PowerPoint presentation and a video of infant oral hygiene for parents. The parents completed the questionnaire twice (pre–post test design) in the same visit. Recruited parents attended only one presentation. The presentation educated parents about infant oral health and provided anticipatory guidance. Results. Forty-seven parents or caretakers participated in the study. On the pre-test 28% had a score of 70% or less, and on the post-test 87% got a score of 88% or better. On the pre-test, 72% had a score of 70% or higher, and on the post-test 87% got a score of 88% or higher. Most parents (80%) reported that the presentation was helpful and indicated that the information would change the way they care for their baby’s teeth at home. Conclusion. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of a 30 min PowerPoint and Video presentation in improving the oral health knowledge of parents caring for an infant.