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Introduction: Restoring a proximal lesion in primary tooth has met with many challenges which has led to evolution of many materials. An alternative to Glass Ionomer Cements which has fluoride releasing capacity, offers good bond strength and is esthetic have been long looked for.Aim: This study aimed to compare the clinical performance of GIC and Cention N in proximal restorations of primary molars.Materials and Methodology: A prospective study was conducted on 154 primary molars in patients aged between 5 and 8 years using a split-mouth design. Patients were divided into two groups. Control group restored with GIC and study group received Cention N. Both groups were assessed at baseline 3, 6 and 9 months according to Ryge criteria and data was statistically analysed using Fisher's Exact.Results: Statistically significant difference was found between GIC and Cention N restorations for color match at baseline and color stability at 3 months (P < 0.001), while the other parameters did not show any significant difference among the two restorative materials.Conclusion: Cention N can be used as a suitable alternative to GIC for restoring Class II restorations in primary molars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Saliva being an important biological fluid of our body contains both specific and nonspecific protective factors which form an integral part of our immune system. Salivary proteins play a substantial role in protecting humans against infection. Their level in oral cavity is subject to constant variations which is dependent on various factors.Purpose: The purpose of the study was to compare the levels of salivary proline-rich proteins (PRPs), glycoproteins, amylase bands, and salivary pH in children with early childhood caries before and after treatment using gel electrophoresis.Materials and Methods: The whole salivary pH, mean protein concentrations, and electrophoretic profiles of the salivary proteins were measured using sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in both pre- and posttreatment groups. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 15.0 software. Chi-square test and independent t-test were used to further compare the results.Results: The results were statistically significant in all the groups. There was variation in pre- and posttreatment values seen.Conclusion: Salivary proteins (glycoproteins, PRPs, and amylase) establish an imperative defense mechanism as antimicrobial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper primarily focuses on the importance of use of xylitol among school children. Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the salivary and dental plaque pH changes after consumption of sugared and sugar-free (xylitol) chewing gums in children. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 school children were selected for this study and were divided into two equal groups and given both chewing gums for the experiment. Results: Children consuming the sugar-free (xylitol) chewing gum showed a marked increase in the pH of saliva and plaque when compared to their counterpart. All these values had a significant difference of P = 0.0001. Conclusion: Xylitol is a safe allnatural sweetener which helps to reduce tooth decay. It plays a unique role in preventive strategies for better health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]