Showing papers on "Oral hygiene published in 2001"

Aspiration pneumonia: dental and oral risk factors in an older veteran population.

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To investigate the importance of medical and dental factors in aspiration pneumonia in an older veteran population. DESIGN: Prospective enrollment of subjects with retrospective analysis of data. SETTING: Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic, inpatient ward, and nursing home. PARTICIPANTS: 358 veterans age 55 and older; 50 subjects with aspiration pneumonia. MEASUREMENTS: Demographic and medical data; functional status; health-related behaviors; dental care utilization; personal oral hygiene; comprehensive dental examination; salivary assays including IgA antibodies; and cultures of saliva, throat, and dental plaques. RESULTS: Two logistic regression models produced estimates of significant risk factors. One model using dentate patients included: requiring help with feeding (odds ratio (OR) = 13.9), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (OR = 4.7), diabetes mellitus (OR = 3.5), number of decayed teeth (OR = 1.2), number of functional dental units (OR = 1.2), presence of important organisms for decay, Streptococcus sobrinus in saliva (OR = 6.2), and periodontal disease, Porphyromonous gingivalis in dental plaque (OR = 4.2), and Staphylococcus aureus presence in saliva (OR = 7.4). The second model, containing both dentate and edentulous patients included: requiring help with feeding (OR = 4.7), COPD (OR = 2.5), diabetes mellitus (OR = 1.7), and presence of S. aureus in saliva (OR = 8.3). CONCLUSION: This study supports the significance of oral and dental factors while controlling for established medical risk factors in aspiration pneumonia incidence.

Nonsurgical periodontal therapy

Abstract: Regular home care by the patient in addition to professional removal of subgingival plaque is generally very effective in controlling most inflammatory periodontal diseases. When disease does recur, despite frequent recall, it can usually be attributed to lack of sufficient supragingival and subgingival plaque control or to other risk factors that influence host response, such as diabetes or smoking. Causative factors contributing to recurrent disease include deep inaccessible pockets, overhangs, poor crown margins and plaque-retentive calculus. In most cases, simply performing a thorough periodontal debridement under local anesthesia will stop disease progression and result in improvement in the clinical signs and symptoms of active disease. If however, clinical signs of disease activity persist following thorough mechanical therapy, such as increased pocket depths, loss of attachment and bleeding on probing, other pharmacotherapeutic therapies should be considered. Augmenting scaling and root planing or maintenance visits with adjunctive chemotherapeutic agents for controlling plaque and gingivitis could be as simple as placing the patient on an antimicrobial mouthrinse and/or toothpaste with agents such as fluorides, chlorhexidine or triclosan, to name a few. Since supragingival plaque reappears within hours or days after its removal, it is important that patients have access to effective alternative chemotherapeutic products that could help them achieve adequate supragingival plaque control. Recent studies, for example, have documented the positive effect of triclosan toothpaste on the long-term maintenance of both gingivitis and periodontitis patients. Daily irrigation with a powered irrigation device, with or without an antimicrobial agent, is also useful for decreasing the inflammation associated with gingivitis and periodontitis. Clinically significant changes in probing depths and attachment levels are not usually expected with irrigation alone. Recent reports, however, would indicate that, when daily irrigation with water was added to a regular oral hygiene home regimen, a significant reduction in probing depth, bleeding on probing and Gingival Index was observed. A significant reduction in cytokine levels (interleukin-1beta and prostaglandin E2, which are associated with destructive changes in inflamed tissues and bone resorption also occurs. If patient-applied antimicrobial therapy is insufficient in preventing, arresting, or reversing the disease progression, then professionally applied antimicrobial agents should be considered including sustained local drug delivery products. Other, more broadly based pharmacotherapeutic agents may be indicated for multiple failing sites. Such agents would include systemic antibiotics or host modulating drugs used in conjunction with periodontal debridement. More aggressive types of juvenile periodontitis or severe rapidly advancing adult periodontitis usually require a combination of surgical intervention in conjunction with systemic antibiotics and generally are not controlled with nonsurgical anti-infective therapy alone. It should be noted, however, that, to date, no home care products or devices currently available can completely control or eliminate the pathogenic plaques associated with periodontal diseases for extended periods of time. Daily home care and frequent recall are still paramount for long-term success. Nonsurgical therapy remains the cornerstone of periodontal treatment. Attention to detail, patient compliance and proper selection of adjunctive antimicrobial agents for sustained plaque control are important elements in achieving successful long-term results. Frequent re-evaluation and careful monitoring allows the practitioner the opportunity to intervene early in the disease state, to reverse or arrest the progression of periodontal disease with meticulous nonsurgical anti-infective therapy.

Risk factors for cancer of the oral cavity and oro-pharynx in Cuba.

Abstract: In terms of worldwide levels, Cuba has an intermediate incidence of cancer of the oral cavity and oro-pharynx. We studied 200 cases of cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx, of whom 57 women (median age = 64) and 200 hospital controls, frequency matched with cases by age and sex, in relation to smoking and drinking history, intake of 25 foods or food groups, indicators of oral hygiene and sexual activity, and history of sexually transmitted diseases. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were obtained from unconditional multiple logistic regressions and adjusted for age, sex, area of residence, education, and smoking and drinking habits. In the multivariate model, high educational level and white-collar occupation, but not white race, were associated with halving of oral cancer risk. Smoking ≥30 cigarettes per day showed an OR of 20.8 (95% CI: 8.9–48.3), similar to smoking ≥4 cigars daily (OR = 20.5). Drinking ≥ 70 alcoholic drinks per week showed an OR of 5.7 (95% CI: 1.8–18.5). Hard liquors were by far the largest source of alcohol. Increased risk was associated with the highest tertile of intake for maize (OR = 1.9), meat (OR = 2.2) and ham and salami (OR = 2.0), whereas high fruit intake was associated with significantly decreased risk (OR = 0.4). Among indicators of dental care, number of missing teeth and poor general oral condition at oral inspection showed ORs of 2.7 and 2.6, respectively. Number of sexual partners, marriages or contacts with prostitutes, practice of oral sex and history of various sexually transmitted diseases, including genital warts, were not associated with oral cancer risk. 82% of oral cancer cases in Cuba were attributable to tobacco smoking, 19% to smoking cigars or pipe only. The fractions attributable to alcohol drinking (7%) and low fruit intake (11%) were more modest. Thus, decreases in cigarette and cigar smoking are at present the key to oral cancer prevention in Cuba. © 2001 Cancer Research Campaign http://www.bjcancer.com

Association between oral malodor and adult periodontitis: a review

Abstract: Background Bad breath has a significant impact on our daily social life to those who suffer from it. The majority of bad breath originates within the oral cavity. However, it is also possible that it can come from other sources such as gastric-intestine imbalance. The term "oral malodor" is used to describe a foul or offensive odor emanating from the oral cavity, in which proteolysis, metabolic products of the desquamating cell, and bacterial putrefaction are involved. Recent evidence has demonstrated a link between oral malodor and adult periodontitis. The process of developing bad breath is similar to that noted in the progression of gingivitis/periodontitis. Oral malodor is mainly attributed to volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) such as hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan and dimethyl sulfide. The primary causative microbes are gram-negative, anaerobic bacteria that are similar to the bacteria causing periodontitis. These bacteria produce the VSC by metabolizing different cells/tissues (i.e., epithelial cells, leukocytes, etc.) located in saliva, dental plaque, and gingival crevicular fluid. Tongue surface is composed of blood components, nutrients, large amounts of desquamated epithelial cells and bacteria, suggesting that it has the proteolytic and putrefactive capacity to produce VSC. One of the challenges in dealing with oral malodor is to identify a reliable test for detecting bad breath. Aims The purposes of this review article were: (1) to correlate the relationship between oral malodor and adult periodontitis; (2) to analyze current malodor tests and discuss available treatment regimens.

Chewing sticks: Timeless natural toothbrushes for oral cleansing

Abstract: It is generally accepted that oral hygiene maintenance through regular removal of dental plaque and food deposits is an essential factor in the prevention of dental caries and periodontal disease. Methods for oral hygiene vary from country to country and from culture to culture. Despite the widespread use of toothbrushes and toothpastes, natural methods of tooth cleaning using chewing sticks selected and prepared from the twigs, stems or roots from a variety of plant species have been practised for thousands of years in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas. Selected clinical studies have shown that chewing sticks, when properly used, can be as efficient as toothbrushes in removing dental plaque due to the combined effect of mechanical cleaning and enhanced salivation. It has also been suggested that antimicrobial substances that naturally protect plants against various invading microorganisms or other parasites may leach out into the oral cavity, and that these compounds may benefit the users by protection against cariogenic and periodontopathic bacteria. Some clinical epidemiological studies are in support of this, and many laboratory investigations have suggested the presence of heterogeneous antimicrobial components extractable using different chemical procedures. A few recent studies have identified some of the active antimicrobial compounds. Today, chewing sticks are still used in many developing countries because of religion and or tradition, and because of their availability, low cost and simplicity. The World Health Organization also encourages their use. The Year 2000 Consensus Report on Oral Hygiene states that chewing sticks may have a role to play in the promotion of oral hygiene, and that evaluation of their effectiveness warrants further research.

Periodontal risk assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning.

Abstract: The prevention and treatment of the periodontal diseases is based on accurate diagnosis, reduction or elimination of causative agents, risk management and correction of the harmful effects of disease. Prominent and confirmed risk factors or risk predictors for periodontitis in adults include smoking, diabetes, race, P. gingivalis, P. intermedia, low education, infrequent dental attendance and genetic influences. Several other specific periodontal bacteria, herpesviruses, increased age, male, sex, depression, race, traumatic occlusion and female osteoporosis in the presence of heavy dental calculus have been shown to be associated with loss of periodontal support and can be considered to be risk indicators of periodontitis. The presence of furcation involvement, tooth mobility, and a parafunctional habit without the use of a biteguard are associated with a poorer periodontal prognosis following periodontal therapy. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a thorough evaluation of data that have been systematically collected by: 1) patient interview, 2) medical consultation as indicated, 3) clinical periodontal examination, 4) radiographic examination, and 5) laboratory tests as needed. Clinical signs of periodontal disease such as pocket depth, loss of clinical attachment and bone loss are cumulative measures of past disease. They do not provide the dentist with a current assessment of disease activity. In an attempt to improve the ability to predict future disease progression, several types of diagnostic tests have been studied, including host inflammatory products and mediators, enzymes, tissue breakdown products and subgingival temperature. In general, the usefulness of these tests for predicting future disease activity remains to be established in terms of sensitivity, specificity and predictive value. Although microbiological analysis of subgingival plaque is not necessary to diagnose and treat most patients with periodontitis, it is helpful when treating patients with unusual forms of periodontal disease such as early-onset, refractory and rapidly progressive disease. There appears to be a strong genetic component in some types of periodontal disease and genetic testing for disease susceptibility has potential for future use, but more research is needed to determine its utility for use in clinical practice. Treatment of the periodontal diseases may be divided into four phases: systemic, hygienic, corrective and maintenance or supportive periodontal therapy. Regardless of the type of treatment provided, periodontal therapy will fail or will be less effective in the absence of adequate supportive periodontal therapy.

Longitudinal periodontal tissue alterations during supportive therapy. Findings from subjects with normal and high susceptibility to periodontal disease.

Abstract: Aim The aim of the study was to evaluate disease progression during supportive periodontal therapy in (i) a group of 225 subjects with "normal" (NG) and (ii) a group with high susceptibility (HSG; n= 109) to periodontal disease (based on their baseline disease status). Material and methods The following variables were recorded at the baseline examination (1 year after they received non-surgical periodontal therapy) and at the re-examination after 12 years of maintenance: number of teeth, plaque, probing pocket depth, probing attachment level, bone level in full mouth radiographs. All assessments were performed in a standardized manner and by well-trained and calibrated examiners. Supportive periodontal therapy was delivered 3-4 x per year and included repeated oral hygiene instruction and debridement. In addition, sites that bled on probing and had a PPD value of > or = 5 mm received subgingival instrumentation. Results A comparison between the findings at baseline and after 12 years revealed that in the NG, most subjects maintained their periodontal condition unchanged during the maintenance period; only a few subjects experienced tooth loss and the figures describing the mean amount of bone and attachment loss were small (0.5 mm and 0.3 mm respectively). The HSG patients experienced some tooth loss and also lost significant amounts of bone and attachment during the 12 years of SPT. Thus, in this group of subjects, the mean overall PAL loss amounted to 0.8 mm, i.e., 0.06 mm/tooth surface/year. In the NG, the overall attachment loss was significantly smaller: 0.5 mm, i.e. 0.04 mm/tooth surface/year. Conclusion In subjects with a high susceptibility for periodontal disease who had been treated for this condition by non-surgical means, an SPT program including regularly repeated oral hygiene instruction and subgingival debridement, made it possible to maintain bone and attachment levels at a reasonably stable level over a 12-year period. A similar SPT provided to a group of subjects with normal susceptibility to periodontal disease, on the other hand, prevented almost entirely major tooth, bone and attachment loss.

Fundamentals of breath malodour.

Abstract: Breath malodour is a condition that has health and social implications. The origin of breath malodour problems are related to both systemic and oral conditions. The advice of dental professionals for treatment of this condition occurs with regularity since 90% of breath odor problems emanate from the oral cavity. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the etiology of breath odor, its prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for the condition.

Oral hygiene measures and promotion: review and considerations.

Abstract: Current mechanical and chemotherapeutic approaches to oral hygiene aim to modify the oral microflora to promote healthy periodontal and dental tissues. Current oral hygiene measures, appropriately used and in conjunction with regular professional care, are capable of virtually preventing caries and most periodontal disease and maintaining oral health. Toothbrushing and flossing are most commonly used, although interdental brushes and wooden sticks can offer advantages in periodontally involved dentitions. Chewing sugar-free gums as a salivary stimulant is a promising caries-preventive measure. Despite new products and design modifications, mechanical measures require manual dexterity and cognitive ability. Chemotherapeutic supplementation of mechanical measures using dentifrices, mouthrinses, gels and chewing gums as delivery vehicles can improve oral hygiene. The list includes anticalculus, antibacterial and cariostatic agents. For the population at large to make effective use of these oral hygiene measures, oral hygiene promotion needs to be implemented. Considerations include the role of parents, school and the media for children and the workplace, social environments, nursing homes and trained carers for adults and the elderly. Community oral hygiene promotion must attempt to maximise opportunities for oral health for all and reduce inequalities by removing financial and other barriers. Oral health approaches should be tailored to lifestyles and abilities of children, adults and the elderly in order to enable them to make decisions to improve personal oral hygiene and oral health.

A study of the dental treatment needs of children with disabilities in Melbourne, Australia.

Abstract: A selected population of children with disabilities in Melbourne, Australia, was studied with reference to their oral disease and treatment needs. A total of 300 children (aged 9-13 years), 150 attending special developmental schools (SDS) and 150 attending special schools (SS), received an oral examination and the parent/guardian completed a questionnaire. Six levels of function were defined, based on the child's independence for five self-care activities (brushing teeth, feeding self, dressing self, walking and performing toilet). The caries experience of children in the SS was lower than in SDS (d + D: 1.3 +/- 1.6 versus 1.5 +/- 2.4; dmft + DMFT: 2.0 +/- 2.3 versus 2.5 +/- 3.1); those attending SDS had higher unmet preventive and restorative needs. Significant associations were seen between the number of decayed teeth, the dmft + DMFT index, and the level of function (p < 0.005). Periodontal disease was prevalent; significant associations were seen between periodontal status, the need for periodontal therapy, and the level of function (p < 0.005). Assessment of the level of function by staff could assist in triaging individuals for urgent dental examination. Despite 41 per cent of children requiring simple treatment, the preventive and treatment needs of many remained unmet. Following examination, diagnosis and treatment planning by a dentist, much of the preventive, simple treatment and oral health promotion could be performed by trained dental auxiliaries. An epidemiological survey followed by the implementation and evaluation of a long-range public dental health care plan for children and adolescents with disabilities is needed urgently.

Oral mucosal lesions and risk habits among men in an Italian study population

Abstract: A randomly selected study population of 118 male subjects (> or = 40 years) living on the Mediterranean island of Pantelleria (southwest of Sicily, Italy) was examined for the presence of oral mucosal lesions, with particular emphasis on the early diagnosis of oral precancerous and cancerous lesions. The study population was interviewed for socioeconomic and behavioural information, and clinically examined using WHO criteria. The prevalence of oral mucosal lesions observed, and data obtained about oral hygiene, tobacco smoking, alcohol drinking and exposure to actinic radiation, were analysed. Alcohol drinking was the most common habit in the study population (73%), followed by tobacco smoking (58.5%, of whom 96% were cigarette smokers). Only 3% showed good oral hygiene and 25% were edentate. Oral lesions were observed in 81.3% of the study group, mainly coated tongue (51.4%), leukoplakia (13.8%), traumatic oral lesions (traumatic ulcers and frictional white lesions) in 9.2%, actinic cheilitis (4.6%), and squamous cell carcinoma in one case (0.9%). Statistically significant associations were found between the prevalence of coated tongue and tobacco smoking (P<0.0001), and between the prevalence of actinic cheilitis and tobacco smoking/alcohol drinking (P<0.05). Analysis of clinical and anamnestic data underlined the effective presence, in the population examined, of the behavioural risk factors for oral precancerous and cancerous lesions, and the lack of cultural motivation towards primary prevention activities, such as the elimination of risk habits.

Dental erosion in children: A literature review

Abstract: Epidemiological studies have shown that the prevalence of dental erosion in children varies widely between 2 and 57%. Changes seen in dental erosion range from removal of surface characteristics to extensive loss of tooth tissue with pulp exposure and abscess formation. Symptoms of dental erosion range from sensitivity to severe pain associated with pulp exposure. The etiology of dental erosion is dependent on the presence of extrinsic or intrinsic acid in the oral environment. Extrinsic sources of acids in children include frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks, and acidic medications. Regurgitation of gastric contents into the mouth, as occurs in gastroesophageal reflux, is the most common source of intrinsic acid in children. A multitude of factors may modify the erosion process, such as saliva, oral hygiene practices, and presence or absence of fluoride. When dental erosion is diagnosed, it is important to investigate and identify the acid source, and to determine if the process is ongoing. The aim of treatment is to eliminate the cause of acid exposure, and to minimize the effects of acid exposure where it is not possible to remove the acid source. Restoration of the dentition involves stainless steel crowns to restore lost vertical dimension, and composite resin for esthetics.

The influence of margins of restorations of the periodontal tissues over 26 years.

Abstract: Aim The purpose of this investigation was to examine the long-term relationship between dental restorations and periodontal health. Material and methods The data derived from a 26-year longitudinal study of a group of Scandinavian middle-class males characterized by good to moderate oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. At each of 7 examinations between 1969 and 1995, the mesial and buccal surfaces were scored for dental, restorative and periodontal parameters. The mesial sites of premolars and molars of 160 participants were observed during 26 years (1969-1995). A control group with 615 sound surfaces or filling margins located more than 1 mm from the gingival margin in all 7 surveys was compared with a test cohort with 98 surfaces which were sound or had filling margins located more than 1 mm from the gingival margin at baseline (1969) and had a subgingival filling margin 2 years after (1971). Results and conclusions The study confirmed the long held concept that restorations placed below the gingival margin are detrimental to gingival and periodontal health. In addition, this study suggests that the increased loss of attachment found in teeth with subgingival restorations started slowly and could be detected clinically 1 to 3 years after the fabrication and placement of the restorations. A subsequent "burn-out" effect was suggested.

The relationship between erosion, caries and rampant caries and dietary habits in preschool children in Saudi Arabia

Abstract: Summary. Objectives. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible association between dental erosion and caries, and variables including socio-economic status, reported dietary practices and oral hygiene behaviour, in a sample of children in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study including dental examination and questionnaire survey was carried out at a number of kindergartens. Sample and methods. A sample of 987 children (2–5-year-olds) was drawn from 17 kindergartens. Clinical examinations were carried out under standardized conditions by a trained and calibrated examiner (MAM). Information regarding diet and socio-economic factors was drawn from questionnaires distributed to the parents through the schools. These were completed before the dental examination. Results. Of the 987 children, 309 (31%) showed signs of erosion. Caries were diagnosed in 720 (73%) of the children and rampant caries in 336 (34%). Vitamin C supplements, frequent consumption of carbonated drinks and the drinking of fruit syrup from a feeding bottle at bed- or nap-time when the child was a baby, were all related to erosion. Consumption of carbonated drinks and fruit syrups was also related to caries but they were part of a larger number of significant factors including socio-demographic measures and oral hygiene practices. Conclusions. There was no clear relationship between erosion and social class, or between erosion and oral hygiene practices; the reverse was true for caries. Dietary factors relating to both erosion and caries and/or rampant caries were found in this sample of children.

Comparative efficacy of an antiseptic mouthrinse and an antiplaque/antigingivitis dentifrice: A six-month clinical trial

Abstract: Background The efficacy of an essential oil–containing antiseptic mouthrinse (Listerine Antiseptic, Pfizer) and an antiplaque/antigingivitis dentifrice (Colgate Total, Colgate-Palmolive) has been demonstrated in numerous double-blind clinical studies. This study was conducted to determine their comparative efficacy. Methods Three hundred sixteen subjects with mild-to-moderate gingival inflammation and plaque received a dental prophylaxis and began their randomly assigned brushing and rinsing regimen in an unsupervised setting. Subjects brushed for one minute and rinsed with 20 milliliters for 30 seconds twice daily for six months. The three groups were L (control toothpaste/Listerine rinse), T (Colgate Total toothpaste/control rinse) and P (control toothpaste/control rinse). Results Subjects in the L and T groups demonstrated statistically significantly lower ( P P Conclusion Although the Listerine Antiseptic and Colgate Total antiplaque/antigingivitis products produced similar, clinically significant reductions in gingivitis (as measured by MGI and BI), Listerine, when used in conjunction with a fluoride dentifrice and usual oral hygiene, provided a greater benefit in reducing plaque. Clinical Implications When considering an antiplaque/antigingivitis product to recommend to patients, clinicians should consider Listerine Antiseptic, in conjunction with usual oral hygiene, if more rigorous plaque control is desired.

Effects of academic stress on oral hygiene – a potential link between stress and plaque‐associated disease?

Abstract: Background: While there seems to be a common belief that psychosocial stress affects oral hygiene behavior, this assumption has rarely been proved. The present study thus aims to analyse stress effects on oral hygiene. Material and Methods: 16 matched pairs of medical students each consisting of 1 student participating in a major academic exam and 1 control without current academic stress, were formed on the basis of baseline plaque levels. At baseline, a professional tooth cleaning was performed. On the last day of exams, students answered questionnaires about oral hygiene during the exams and were afterwards asked to attend for a 2nd dental examination, of which they had no prior knowledge. Results: On the last day of exams, approximately 6 weeks after professional tooth cleaning, 20.9±18.3% of control students’ sites but only 10.5±9.3% of exam students’ sites were found to be free of any plaque (p=0.022). Differences were most obvious at oral, as compared to vestibular, sites. Exam students reported a reduction in thoroughness (p=0.019) but not of frequency of oral hygiene behavior. Conclusion: The study strongly supports the assumption that psychosocial stress may induce neglect of oral hygiene and increase of plaque accumulation.

The oral health of psychiatric in-patients in South Wales.

Abstract: Little information is available regarding the oral health of hospitalized psychiatric patients. The aims of the study were: to quantify the oral health status and identify dental treatment needs of hospitalized psychiatric patients in South Wales; and to compare the oral health of subgroups within the population by their age, psychiatric diagnosis, psychotropic medication use, and length of stay. The total patient population of the hospitals involved in the study was 469, and 326 subjects (70%) took part in the study. The mean age of the subjects was 71.1 years, with 265 long-stay and 61 short-stay patients. Forty-seven percent of patients had a psychiatric diagnosis of dementia, 23% of schizophrenia, and 19% of depressive illness. The examination included assessment of oral hygiene, periodontal condition, and prevalence of caries. The treatment needs of the population were also determined. It was found that 63% of the population was edentulous. The mean DMFT score was 19.1 +/- 7.9 (SD). Comparison with the DMFT of the general population showed a similar level of decay, fewer filled teeth, and more missing teeth in the study population. The oral hygiene of the dentate population was poor, and there was little periodontal disease. Treatment needs were mainly for scaling and polishing. There were no significant differences found between subgroups within the population.

Self-preventive oral behavior in an Italian university student population.

Abstract: Background, aim: The aim of this study was to assess the oral hygiene attitude and the professional preventive examination compliance in Italian university students. Method: A sample of 202 students attending the University of Bologna was randomly selected and interviewed about their preventive oral health attitude and compliance. All students reported using toothpaste and most of them (92.1%) brushed their teeth at least 2× a day using artificial, medium stiffness bristles. The toothbrush was generally (81.6%) replaced within 3 months. Few subjects (14.9%) said they used dental floss daily or utilized other devices. A majority of subjects (59.9%) had a dental examination within the year previous to the interview. Cluster analysis was performed. Results: 4 groups were identified with homogeneous oral hygiene behavior and compliance toward professional preventive examination. Only one cluster, representing 33.6% of the sample, showed consistent frequency and modalities of oral hygiene habits. The other clusters seemed to be defective with interproximal cleaning procedures and compliance toward professional preventive care. Since the sample was characterized by a young, urbanized, homogeneous group with a high educational level and frequently from an upper middle class social status, the analysis probably gives a supra-estimation of the positive behavior. Conclusion: It is rational to suppose that strategies to promote dental service utilization, patients’ compliance and a professional style oriented toward prevention may be useful to improve the oral health condition in the young adult Italian population.

A prospective study on sucrose consumption, visible plaque and caries in children from 3 to 6 years of age.

Abstract: OBJECTIVES As data on the association of sugar consumption and dental caries in the industrialized countries give mixed results, we prospectively studied this association in 135 healthy Finnish children (71 boys, 64 girls). METHODS The dental health and oral hygiene of the children was first examined at the mean age (+/-SD) of 37.4 (+/-2.1) months and again at 73.7 (+/-2.6) months. On both occasions the parents were interviewed about the child's sweet intake and toothbrushing habits, and sucrose consumption was analyzed using 4-day food diaries. RESULTS The proportion of children with caries experience, enamel and dentin lesions combined, increased from 16% to 40%. Daily sucrose intake of children who developed caries by 6 years of age, whether expressed as absolute (g) or as relative (E%) amounts, was already higher at 3 years of age than that of children who stayed caries-free (P<0.05 and P<0.03, respectively). Furthermore, children who used sweets more than once a week at 3 years of age, consumed more sucrose 3 years later (P<0.01) than those who used sweets once a week or less. The proportion of children with a combination of a sweet intake more than once a week and visible plaque, increased (P<0.05) during the follow-up. The risk ratio of children with the combined risk habit at 3 years of age to develop carious lesions by 6 years of age was 1.7 compared to the rest of the children (95% confidence interval 0.9-3.0). CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the manifestation of dental caries at 6 years of age seemed to be associated with a higher daily sucrose intake that had started already at 3 years of age. Moreover, a combination of sweet intake more than once a week and visible plaque at 3 years of age may be predictive of dental health 3 years later.

A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial of a Dental Health Education Program for 10-year-old Children

Abstract: Objective: Using a cluster randomized trial, this study tested the effectiveness of a dental health education program designed to improve the oral hygiene and dental knowledge of 10-year-old children. Methods: Thirty-two primary schools in the northwest of England participated. After a baseline assessment of plaque and the completion of a dental knowledge questionnaire by the children, the schools were allocated randomly to active or control groups. Children in schools allocated to the active group received the dental health program, which consisted of four one-hour lessons. After four months the children were examined clinically and scored for plaque, and a second questionnaire was administered. The schools in the control group were then allocated randomly to receive the program or not over the following three months, the program being withdrawn from the schools who initially received it. A further assessment of plaque was made and a questionnaire administered seven months after the baseline of the study. Results: The active groups had 20 percent and 17 percent lower mean plaque scores than the control group at four and seven months (P<.001). The children's knowledge of which type of toothbrush should be used and the role of disclosing tablets improved in the initial test group when compared with the control group and this was retained over the second part of the study. Conclusion: The children receiving the program had significantly lower mean plaque scores and greater knowledge about toothbrushes and disclosing tablets than the control children who had not received the program.

A controlled study of oral self-care and self-perceived oral health in type 2 diabetic patients.

Abstract: A controlled study was carried out in mid-Sweden with the aim of comparing oral self-care and self-perceived oral health in 102 randomly sampled type 2 diabetic patients with that of 102 age-and-gender-matched non-diabetic controls. Oral health variables were also related to glycemic control (HbA1c), duration, anti-diabetic treatment, and late complications. Questionnaires were used to collect data on oral self-care and self-perceived oral health. Diabetes-related variables were extracted from medical records. Eighty-five percent of the diabetic subjects had never received information about the relation between diabetes and oral health, and 83% were unaware of the link. Forty-eight percent believed that the dentist/ dental hygienist did not know of their having diabetes. Most individuals, but fewer in the diabetic group, were regular visitors to dental care and the majority felt unaffected when confronted with dental services. More than 90% in both groups brushed their teeth daily and more than half of those with natural teeth did proximal cleaning. Subjects in the diabetic group as well as in the control group were content with their teeth and mouth (83% vs 85%. Those with solely natural teeth and those with complete removable dentures expressed most satisfaction. Sensation of dry mouth was common among diabetic patients (54%) and subjects with hypertension exhibited dry mouth to a greater extent (65%) than those who were normotensive. Our principal conclusion is that efforts should be made to give information about diabetes as a risk factor for oral health from dental services to diabetic patients and diabetes staff.

Major depressive disorder: Psychopathology, medical management and dental implications

Abstract: Background Major depressive disorder, or MDD, is a psychiatric illness in which mood, thoughts and behavioral patterns are impaired for long periods. The illness distresses the person and impairs his or her social functioning and quality of life. MDD is characterized by marked sadness or a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities, and is accompanied by weight change, sleep disturbance, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, physical impairment and a high suicide rate. In 2000, the World Health Organization, or WHO, identified MDD as the fourth ranked cause of disability and premature death in the world. WHO projected that by 2020, MDD would rise in disease burden to be second only to ischemic heart disease. The disorder is common in the United States, with a lifetime prevalence rate of 17 percent and a recurrence rate of more than 50 percent. Conclusions MDD may be associated with extensive dental disease, and people may seek dental treatment before becoming aware of their psychiatric illness. MDD frequently is associated with a disinterest in performing appropriate oral hygiene techniques, a cariogenic diet, diminished salivary flow, rampant dental caries, advanced periodontal disease and oral dysesthesias. Many medications used to treat the disease magnify the xerostomia and increase the incidence of dental disease. Appropriate dental management requires a vigorous dental education program, the use of saliva substitutes and anticaries agents containing fluoride, and special precautions when prescribing or administering analgesics and local anesthetics. Clinical Implications Dentists cognizant of these signs and symptoms have an opportunity to recognize patients with occult MDD. After confirmation of the diagnosis and institution of treatment by a mental health practitioner, dentists usually can provide a full range of services that may enhance patients' self-esteem and contribute to the psychotherapeutic aspect of management.

Periodontal conditions in 70-year-old women with osteoporosis.

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to examine the periodontal conditions in an age cohort of 70-year-old women and compare an osteoporosis group with a control group with normal bone mineral density. 210 women 70 years old and randomly sampled from the population register of the community of Linkoping were examined. Bone mineral density (BMD) of the hip was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. 19 women were diagnosed with osteoporosis (BMD below 0.640 g/cm2 in total hip). 15 of them accepted to participate in the study. As a control group 21 women with normal bone mineral density (BMD exceeding 0.881 g/cm2) were randomly selected from the initial population. The clinical examination included registration of the number of remaining teeth, dental plaque and periodontal conditions. The radiographic examination included a dental panorama and vertical bite-wing radiographs. The subjects also answered a questionnaire about their general health, age at menopause, concurrent medication, smoking and oral hygiene habits. The results from this study showed no statistically significant differences in gingival bleeding, probing pocket depths, gingival recession and marginal bone level between the women with osteoporosis and the women with normal bone mineral density. In conclusion, the present randomly selected and controlled study of osteoporotic and non-osteoporotic women, showed no statistically significant differences in periodontal conditions or marginal bone level. As periodontitis as well as osteoporosis are associated with age, our study of a well-defined age cohort is of interest, but the results should be interpreted with caution since the compared groups are small.

Oral hygiene and postoperative pain after mandibular third molar surgery.

Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between oral hygiene before surgery and pain, inflammation, and trismus after the surgical removal of 190 impacted lower third molars. Study Design: Patient hygiene was assessed by the simplified oral hygiene index. The maximum active interincisal oral opening was determined before surgery by using a millimeter scale, from the upper incisive edge to the lower incisive edge. Pain and inflammation were in turn recorded in written form by each patient 2, 6, and 12 hours after the operation and every day thereafter for 7 days. Results: Maximum postoperative pain was recorded 6 hours after extraction, with peak inflammation after 24 hours. The patients with the poorest oral hygiene reported higher pain levels throughout the postoperative period and more analgesic consumption in the first 48 hours. In contrast, oral hygiene appeared to exert no influence on either trismus or inflammation. Conclusions: Poor oral hygiene before the surgical removal of 190 impacted lower third molars is correlated with greater postoperative pain. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2001;92:260-4)

Dental care of autistic children within the non-specialized Public Dental Service.

Abstract: Children with an autistic disorder may need more dental care and may also be more difficult to treat than healthy children. This study compared oral health in autistic and healthy children. Also explored was the dental management of autistic children within the non-specialized Public Dental Service. The study was designed as a case-control study with all cases of autistic disorders aged 3-19 years identified within a primary care area in southwest Sweden. One dentist did a clinical investigation of cases and one control per case. The patients, or their parents, answered a questionnaire. 28 patients were identified and 20 (71%) agreed to participate in the study. Cases and controls had a similar prevalence of fillings, caries, gingivitis and degree of oral hygiene. However, the need of orthodontic treatment seemed to be greater among the autistic children. According to a standardised assessment, autistic children were less able to cooperate in the dental treatment. Approximately 30% of the cases had occasionally been subjected to specialized dental care. The results of this study indicate that the care provided to autistic children within the non-specialized Public Dental Service is satisfactory, provided that there is access to a paediatric dentist when necessary.

Oral health status and dental service use of adults with learning disabilities living in residential institutions and in the community.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To investigate the oral health status of adults on Sheffield's Learning Disability Case Register, and their reported use of dental services. DESIGN A short questionnaire interview of subjects with learning disabilities or their carers followed by a standardised epidemiological examination, by one trained and calibrated examiner. SETTING Residential homes, day centres or community homes of people with learning disabilities in Sheffield. SUBJECTS A 20% random sample of adults (18-65 years) on the register. RESULTS A response rate of 209 (67%) was achieved, 62% (n=130) of whom were living in the community. People living in residential care were significantly older (43.2 years) than those based in the community (36.3 years) (P<0.05). Both groups had similar mean DMFT scores; however, adults living in the community had significantly more untreated decay (DT = 1.6) and poorer oral hygiene than their counterparts in residential care (DT = 0.7). Adults in residential care had significantly more missing teeth (MT = 10.1) than those in community care (MT = 7.5). General and community dental services were the main providers of dental care. Subjects living in the community were significantly less likely to have a dentist and to use community dental services than their residential counterparts; they were more likely to attend only when having trouble. CONCLUSIONS Adults with learning disabilities living in the community have greater unmet oral health needs than their residential counterparts and are less likely to have regular contact with dental services. Commissioners and providers of dental services have a responsibility to ensure that the health of adults with learning disabilities is not compromised by 'normalisation'.