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Introduction: The outbreak of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has influenced every aspect of life. Healthcare professionals, especially dentists, are exposed to a higher risk of getting infected due to close contact with infected patients primarily through aerosol generated procedures. This study aimed to assess the awareness and risks of getting infected among dentists in the western region of Saudi Arabia, while working during the current novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. In addition, dentists’ knowledge about various practice modifications to combat COVID-19 cross infection and spread were evaluated. Materials and Methods: A total of 329 participants including 123 males and 196 females responded to an online questionnaire consisting of 30 questions, which was circulated among all kinds of dental healthcare professionals through social media and e-mails after obtaining approval from the institutional ethical committee. Results: Chi square tests revealed significant differences when comparing the responses of the participants based on qualification with regard to key responses related to awareness and practice perceptions such as HEPA filters, pulse oximeter, wearing an N-95 mask, using a face shield, a High volume suction and rubber dam.(p

Background: Both periodontal disease and hypertension individually, have been found to be linked to certain blood groups. However, the association of the blood groups to abnormal blood pressure and co-existing periodontal disease has not yet been explored. The objective of this study was to explore a possible association, if any among the three conditions. Materials and Methods: In this pilot project, a total of 300 patients were screened initially, of which, 270 patients (205 males and 65 females) with mean age range of 34.5 years from various ABO blood groups, with gingivitis / periodontitis were selected and their blood pressure was measured in a standardized manner with a digital automated BP monitor. Patients with any systemic disease or condition or consuming any kind of medications and smokers were excluded from the study. The data thus obtained was statistically analyzed to assess prevalence and associations. Results: Overall, blood group O(29.26%) reported the highest number of patients with abnormal blood pressure in the presence of periodontal disease followed by B(18.89%) and A(17.03%). No association was found with abnormal blood pressure and blood groups in the individual gingivitis and periodontitis groups. However, a significant association with abnormal blood pressure in males over females in blood group A and B in the gingivitis group and in blood group A in the periodontitis group was observed.(P

Objective: Sound periodontal foundation of abutment teeth is essential for successful restorative therapy and also for long-term success of prosthodontic restorations. Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) has been a popular choice of novel esthetic material in fixed prosthodontics over the last few decades. The present study aimed to assess the long term effect and tissue responses of fixed partial prosthesis using PFM material on vital and non- vital abutments on the periodontal parameters both clinically and radiographically. Methodology: Following ethical committee approval, the study group comprised of 86 abutment teeth in 41 systemically healthy patients (24 males and 17 females) aged between 18 – 45 years who had received 3 unit fixed prosthesis made of PFM, having equigingival margins using vital and non-vital abutments. The following parameters were assessed at baseline, phase 1, 3 and 4 (1 year follow up) – CAL, Probing depth, Distance between CEJ/ cervical crown margin and alveolar crest of the abutment teeth (radiograph). Results: Statistical analysis carried out by SPSSV22 software revealed no significant changes in probing depth and CAL (p>0.05) and significant changes in radiographic bone levels (p0.05) with non vital abutments. However, significant differences were observed between vital and non vital abutments with regard to probing depth at the end of 2years, CAL and radiographic bone levels at 6months, 1 year and 2 years (p