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Background: Chat-generative pretrained transformer (ChatGPT) has the potential to offer personalized, effective learning experiences for students, creating realistic virtual simulations for hands-on learning. Objectives: Assessment of efficiency of ChatGPT against subject experts for assessment in BDS curriculum. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among students of a dental college, in accordance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. A self-administered, validated questionnaire was used for Short Answer Questioning (SAQ) and critical questioning. Group comparison was done through an independent sample t-test and statistical significance through the Pearson Chi-square test. A P value of 0.05). At the same time, group comparison for critical reasoning revealed that the mean score obtained by Group 1 in critical reasoning was 4.68 ± 0.24, and for Group 2, it was 2.09 ± 1.10. The difference in mean scores between the two groups was statistically significant. Conclusion: Instead of treating artificial intelligence as a threat, dental educators need to adapt teaching and assessments in dental education for the benefit of learners while mitigating its dishonest use.

Context: PhD is one of the programs pursued by faculty working in health sciences institutions. It is valuable to know about the perceived challenges and support available for the faculty to pursue PhD. Aims: The aim was to study the factors affecting the pursuit of PhD by faculty employed in institutions offering medicine and dentistry in the state of Karnataka. Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey conducted among 366 faculty across 22 medical and 12 dental institutions. Subjects and Methods: The questionnaire was administered online after content and face validation. Statistical Analysis: The Mann–Whitney U-test and Spearman’s correlation coefficient were used. Results: Knowledge creation (86.1%), personal career advancement in the form of promotions (75.5%), and contribution to the health of society or community (73.8%) were generally perceived as the motives to pursue PhD. Work commitments in the department (80.6%) and lack of appropriate academic position after completing PhD (79.5%) were identified as the major factors obstructing the enrollment for PhD. Respondents reported that the scientific rigor of research might be undermined by career-related motives (70.7%). Routine professional activities like clinical work (72.7%) and academic work (71.9%) were reported to be adversely affected while pursuing PhD. 68.8% of faculty believed that a PhD holder would be a better researcher. Conclusions: Both personal and altruistic motives influence the pursuit of PhD. Many factors hinder the pursuit of PhD and the conduct of quality research. Institutional support may enhance the enrollment.

Introduction: Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an important part of our lives owing to increased data availability and improved power of computing. One of the recently launched modalities of AI, ChatGPT, is being enormously used worldwide for different types of tasks. In medical context, its use is being explored for clinical queries, academia, research help, etc. Further, literature suggests that parents seek information about health of their children using different Internet resources and would surely turn toward ChatGPT for the same, as this chatbot model is easy to use, generates “one” response, and is available without any subscription. ChatGPT generates a response using text cues and applying different algorithms on prepublished literature but is still in its naïve state; hence, it is imperative to validate the generated responses. Accordingly, we planned this study to determine the clarity, correctness, and completeness of some Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about child’s oral health, from a mother’s perspective. Methods: The study design was a vignette-based survey and included a set of 23 questions, for which ChatGPT was interviewed from the perspective of an imaginary parent. The answers responded by ChatGPT were copied “verbatim,” and a Google survey form was designed. The survey form was validated and then sent to 15 pediatric dentists, and the responses were mainly collected on the Likert’s scale with a provision of one open-ended question aiming to determine “what they would have added” to this generated response as an expert in the field. Results: The responses on Likert’s scale were condensed and values ≥4 were considered ‘adequate and acceptable’ while scores ≤3, were considered ‘inadequate’. The generated responses and comments mentioned by different respondents in the open-ended question were critiqued in reference to the existing literature. Conclusion: Overall, the responses were found to be complete and logical and in clear language, with only some inadequacies being reported in few of the answers.

Introduction: Identifying obstacles that prevent the adoption and implementation of statistical techniques (STes) could enlighten policymakers’ decisions and pave the way for fostering the attainment of predetermined targets in the health-care sector, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and the transformational period in the health-care sector, including dental services. Aims: The study aimed to identify and discuss the challenges preventing the adoption of statistical thinking (STk) and statistical techniques in dental service organizations in Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: The study applied a mixed design to investigate the researched case. An exploratory approach was used to obtain an initial understanding of the case, explore it, and find factual evidence of its structure, dynamics, and context. On the other hand, an explanatory approach was employed to address inquiries of the mechanisms and rationales behind a specific event. This study employs a triangulation concept, combining survey results and a comprehensive examination of charts, reports, and documentation to unravel the intricate operational performance and decision-making (DM) facets. Results and Discussion: The survey, conducted over two time points with 57 and 49 participants, revealed a positive trajectory in crucial elements, notably a two-fold improvement observed in the STk factor. The regression analysis validated these trends, revealing numerical shifts in several elements and robust model fitting. Documentation analysis, spanning 120 documents, 23 reports, and 13 interview papers, enriched our understanding of the organizational landscape. The initial identification of 208 codes was thematically refined, encapsulating diverse challenges ranging from workforce dynamics to data quality and facility management. The discussion encompasses findings on organizational efficacy, resource constraints, structural inflexibility, and challenges in managerial DM. It highlights systemic inefficiencies, unbalanced demand-support dynamics, and consequences on service quality and stakeholder satisfaction. Conclusion: The study explored the adoption of new healthcare management systems in Saudi Arabia, focusing on STk and STes integration, and highlights significant cultural advancements.

Background: The attitudes of dental students to study a particular specialty of dentistry in post-graduation are of great importance as these facilitate workforce planning in the dental sector. Aim and Objective: To assess the attitude of dental students towards choosing periodontology as their future career and to explore demographic variables that affect their choice. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey based on a questionnaire was conducted, including students of the third and fourth years and interns of the dental college. Twenty-seven questions, graded on a Likert scale (5-point) were included in the questionnaire, and the responses were categorised via three attitudes: negative (score 0–21), neutral (score 22–44) and positive (score 45–64). The Chi-square test for proportions was used to examine the differences between groups. Results: Among 114 participants, 53 (46.5%) were males and 61 (53.5%) were females. One-third of the respondents had a positive attitude towards selecting periodontology as their future career, and the majority had a neutral perspective, with a few students having a negative attitude (20.2%). Out of the total, 34.2% of respondents had a positive attitude, and 45.6% showed a neutral attitude or perspective. Conclusion: Efforts should be intensified, and undergraduate (UG) students should be motivated by broadening the scope of the field in the UG curriculum by the dental council so that the students show considerable interest in pursuing the field as their future career.

Introduction: Researchers must concentrate their focus on whether patients understand various treatment options available among removable complete and partial denture patients and whether they are aware of the maintenance protocol of the prosthesis. Materials and Methods: All the patients who completed removable partial or complete denture treatment in a period of 6 months were included in the study. Collected data were statistically analyzed using Chi-square test at a significance level of P < 0.05. Results: Awareness needs to be increased regarding the treatment options available for removable complete and partial denture treatment causes because many subjects in this study were only aware of the removable partial denture and complete denture treatment for missing teeth and not the other options, especially among individuals in the lower socioeconomic group. Conclusion: The findings indicate that awareness needs to be increased regarding the functions of prostheses such as esthetics and phonetics because many subjects in this study were only aware of the masticatory function performed by prosthesis.

BACKGROUND: Cyberbullying is an act of bullying that is conducted through the use of technology in an online mode such as over social media platforms or via text-based messages. It is an intentionally repeated aggressive activity in which harm is inflicted on a person using electronic media. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and pattern of workplace cyberbullying in undergraduate students inmedical and dental streams. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study used a mixed explanatory cross-sectional study design by making use of a structured questionnaire for the survey. This “two-phase” mixed design utilized qualitative data for the explanation of quantitative observations. The selected study subjects were three hundred undergraduate medical and dental students. To obtain data, an electronically fabricated questionnaire (i.e. Google Form) consisting of open- and closed-ended questions was distributed. All questions were designed for studying prevalence and patterns of cyberbullying that had been experienced by the victims. Obtained data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science software version 20.0 (SPSS v20.0) based on a Likert-based questionnaire scale in which responses were recorded in “yes” or “no” format. The statistical tool employed was the “Chi-square” test. RESULTS: On analysis of the level of knowledge, 92% of the study sample was aware of cyberbullying as different from the physical form of bullying. The most commonly employed tools for handling cyberbullying were conferencing (0.66% of cases) and disciplinary tools (5% of cases). 14.33% of cases involved the use of investigations, and 2.66% made use of victim counseling. Most of the students, along with their parents (89%), were of the opinion that teachers must have active participation in cyberbullying cases. On statistical comparison, the P-value was found to be less than 0.05. CONCLUSION: In the present study, cases of cyberbullying were found to be less prevalent in medical and dental undergraduate students although there was knowledge regarding this form of bullying in studied participants.

Managing the massive losses associated with large-scale disasters requires significant resources. The unexpected violence of these events generally remains a matter of casualties that urgently need to be identified in a reliable and cost-effective manner. To overcome these difficulties, many researchers have attempted to develop automated methods; moreover, a few recent research have investigated the applicability of artificial intelligence (AI)-based methods using skull, dental, and maxillofacial forensic imaging. In this review, we speculate on the advancement and potential of AI in Dental and Maxillofacial imaging that can help simplify person or victim identification and speed up the process with good accuracy. Using a few prefix search phrases, an online literature search was conducted (AI, Forensic, Skull, Dental, Imaging, Radiology) to identify papers about the advancement of AI in forensic dentistry in all kinds of radiographs, including two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) radiographs, cone beam computed tomography (CT) and CT. Most of the studies reported that automated methods of human identification based on 2D and 3D Dental and Skull radiographs using a convolutional neural network showed to assist in the fast and accurate identification by expertise evaluating a lot of images and quickly coming up with potential matches for identification. We advocate the application of AI techniques in the identification of individuals. However, there is a need to continue research with emphasis to validate models in skull identification.

Introduction: People with uncontrolled diabetes are at significant risk of developing several oral health-related problems. Prevention and treatment of oral diseases in diabetic patients require persistent daily self-care at home and regular dental visits. Aim: The aim of this was to assess the level of knowledge and attitude of diabetic patients toward oral health in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, survey, and facility-based study was conducted at the Endocrine and Diabetic Center in Buraydah, Saudi Arabia. A simple random sampling technique was used and included male and female patients and excluding those with gestational diabetes. Each patient received a questionnaire containing four domains: sociodemographic data, oral health knowledge, general health knowledge, and oral health attitude. Results and Discussion: Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) ran a detailed descriptive analysis. A sample size of 173 Saudi diabetic patients participated in this study (68 [39.3%] male and 105 [60.7%] female). Surprisingly, 75.7% did not know their diabetic type, 73.4% brush their teeth at least once daily, and 87.3% have never used interdental flossing. Just 38.2% knew diabetic patients were at a higher risk of developing oral disease. Furthermore, 19.7% have had their dentists educate them about the effect of diabetes on their oral health, and only 13.3% stated that their physicians had educated them about the relationship between diabetic status and oral health. It is paramount to ensure the role of dentists and physicians in educating patients, as most of the sample was unaware of the relationship between diabetes and oral health. Furthermore, interdental flossing is essential for dental home care and periodontium health. Most diabetic patients in this sample do not floss and must be educated about its importance. Conclusion: Integrated dental visits for diabetic patients, in coordination with their physician, may avoid further oral and general health complications.

Introduction: “Burnout syndrome (BS)” is a work-associated condition which is frequently observed in medical professionals, especially students. Extra-curricular activities (ECAs) are one of the coping techniques that students employ to deal with stress and exhaustion. Goal: The study's goal is to evaluate dental students' levels of burnout and how it correlates with their participation in ECAs. Materials and Procedures: In South India, a dentistry school conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire research with its students. Both the regular and supplemental batches of students from the first year through the fifth year (internship) were included. The “Maslach Burnout Inventory Student Survey”, which has 15 items in three areas—”Emotional Fatigue (EE), Cynicism (CY), & Professional Efficacy (PE)”—was used to assess burnout. A 5-point Likert scale was used to grade each response. Poisson log linear model and the Mann–Whitney U test were employed. The threshold for statistical significance was 5 out of 100. Results: Four hundred participants were finalized after the criteria. Over 80% of the participants were women students as in accordance with the routine proportion of the dental students. The participants' average age was 22.1 ± 12 years. Burnout was seen in nearly 20% of subjects. Significant variation was seen for all the three domains of the burnout when they were compared against the ECA (P = 0.019(EE), 0.003(CY), and 0.005(PE)). Conclusion: It is safe to say that among the participants, burnout is a common occurrence. There is a need for early detection of burnout in dental students and prompt, efficient management.

Background: The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an extremely contagious illness that spreads mostly via the dentistry practice. Patients in need of dental care are at a higher risk of becoming infected with and becoming carriers of the illness. Aim: To assess the COVID-19-related knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of patients visiting dental outpatient department of M.G.M. Medical College and Hospital, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, India. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, patients visiting dental outpatient department of M.G.M. Medical College and Hospital, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, India were included. The questionnaire had four sections including demographic information, knowledge, attitudes, and practice in relation to COVID-19. Along with computation of descriptive statistics, data analysis was performed using unpaired t-test. Results: A total of 332 people took part in the research. The female respondents were higher in number (53.01%) and the highest percentage of the respondents belongs to the age group 18–40 years (55.72%). Nearly, 98% of respondents were vaccinated. The highest percentage of KAP level was recorded for knowledge (74.95%) followed by that of attitude (50.84%) and practices (37.05%). Conclusion: While respondents' overall knowledge was high but their enthusiasm for taking preventative measures was low, and their efforts to stem the pandemic were lagging at best. Future campaigns should focus more on reaching out to marginalized populations, such as those with less education or higher poverty rates.

Background: Patient education and demonstration of osseous defects by teachers and clinicians are difficult even though there are different models made up of metal, plastic, plaster, stone, and acrylic. To overcome such difficulty, 3D printed Vanperio model was printed for multifunctional activity. Aims and Objective: The aim of this article was to provide information on the 3D printed VANPERIO model and its implications in the field of periodontics and general dentistry. Conclusion: Vanperio model proves to be a promising model for teachers, students, and clinicians in the field of periodontics and general dentistry as it helps in patient education, student learning and also for various demonstrations which is not possible to achieve in other available expensive models.

Background: Functionally and esthetically, enamel is the most important dental hard tissue in the tooth structure. It is composed of hydroxyapatite crystals and is the hardest calcified matrix in the body. Erosion of this dental hard tissue due to any underlying pathological disease or regurgitation, vomiting, and gastroesophageal reflux disease is termed tooth erosion or demineralization. Remineralization has to be achieved to prevent sensitivity and altered occlusion. Methods: The sample teeth were cleaned with 1% sodium hypochlorite and then demineralized using 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, which were later brushed twice a till 7 and 14 days using bioactive glass to figure out the extent of demineralization. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was analyzed on the 7th and 14th day, respectively. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) model. Results: Remineralization was observed with the help of field-emission-Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis on the exposed surface of the teeth samples which were brushed with a bioactive glass of 100 mg and 200 mg concentrations twice a day till the incubation period. Conclusions: Bioglass explicates the enhanced mineralization on the tooth surface with respect to concentration as well as in incubation. Hence, we found that bioglass is one of the significant materials for tooth remineralization.

BACKGROUND: Anterior open bite (AOB) malocclusion is one of the highly challenging malocclusions. Cephalometric radiographs have been used for the diagnosis of occlusal anomalies in the vertical and anteroposterior directions. This study aims to compare skeletal and dental features in open and non-open bite subjects to identify factors that help predict and categorize open bites in a Nigerian population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pretreatment cephalometric radiographs of 82 patients were recruited into this study. This study comprised 41 AOB patients and 41 (Class 1 malocclusion) patients (control group). The radiographs were obtained from the orthodontic unit, Department of Child Dental Health of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba Lagos. Cephalometric tracing and analysis of the obtained radiographs were used to identify and compare the skeletal and dental differences between the two groups. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 20.47 ± 8.05 years. The patients consisted of 26 (31.7%) males and 56 (68.3%) females. There was a significant difference in the open bite depth indicator (ODI) of the open bite (P value < 0.001). There was a statistically significant increase in the vertical skeletal parameters – lower facial height (LFH), total facial height (TFH), posterior facial height (PFH), Frankfort-mandibular plane angle (FMA), mandibular-maxillary angle (MMA), and gonial angle in the AOB group compared to the control group. The vertical height of the dentoalveolar segments measured was all significantly increased in the open bite group compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the skeletal and dental vertical parameters, including ODI of the open bite subjects, varied compared with the non-open bite subjects in the Nigerian population studied and could be used to predict AOB tendency.

Background: This study was conducted to evaluate the differences in soft tissue as well as dental compensation in skeletal Class II div 1 malocclusion. Methods and Materials: The study sample consists of pre-treatment lateral cephalograms of 100 subjects of both gender having skeletal Class II and dental Class II div 1 malocclusion visiting the Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Bharati Vidyapeeth Dental College, and Hospital Navi Mumbai. Cephalograms of the subjects fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included in this study. Results: This research was conducted to assess dental and soft tissue compensation in skeletal Class II div 1 malocclusion and comparative assessment of lip prominence measured from two soft tissue vertical reference lines. The 100 subjects selected randomly out of which 44 men and 56 women, age ranging from 18 to 35 years. Conclusion: ARNETT'S method and PROFFIT'S method showed statistically significant as P < 0.0001. PROFFIT'S method and LEGAN-BURSTONE'S method showed statistically significant as P < 0.0001.

Aims and Objective: To assess the knowledge as well as attitude of dental students to OSCE exams. Materials and Methods: With the aim of evaluating the knowledge and attitude of dental students to OSCE exams, the present study was planned and it consisted of total 1000 dental students (Third year, Final year, and Interns) who have taken the OSCE examinations. The survey included a questionnaire in addition to a subsection on participants' demographic information. In addition, a 3-point scale was used to rate the OSCE's impartiality, complexity, education level, as well as favored frequency of usage in comparison with various evaluation formats. Results: 562 were males while the remaining 438 were females. While evaluating the student's perception, 36.3 percent of the students agreed that OSCE examination gave precise measure of clinical dental skills. 23.1 percent of the students said OSCE was uniform in terms of standardization, while 25 percent of the students agreed that OSCE score was independent of personality, ethnicity, and gender. Conclusion: To recapitulate, the outcomes of this research gave rise to the notion that the OSCE represents a valid as well as objective evaluation tool for clinical abilities.

Introduction: Pandemic COVID-19 has spread all over the world very profligately in a short interval. This has had disturbed the main determinant of the future economics that is the education sector. India is a country with a vast number of colleges and dental colleges are a part of nurturing budding dentists. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the status of online education at government and private dental colleges of India during a COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study; conducted among the faculties of all Indian government and private dental colleges taking online classes for bachelor of dental surgery students. A pretested and validated questionnaire was sent to faculty members through a Google form. To assess the differences in perception among faculties of different colleges, the use of Chi-square test was done whereas descriptive statistics surveyed the frequency distribution. Results: More than 70% of faculty members both from private and government colleges agreed that tracking of students is difficult during online classes. A laptop was used by the maximum number of respondents, that is, government (77.8%) and private (81.5%) as the mode for taking online classes. About 50% of government faculties and 59.5% of private faculty members used zoom as an online platform tool for taking classes whereas others used the Google meet app for taking classes. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has paved the way for E-Learning in dental education in India. Faculties agree to complete the theory syllabus and conduct sessional examinations as an alternative during the lockdown period. However, they show strong reservations in carrying out practical/clinical simulations and university exams online.

Background: Fluorosis is caused because of excessive fluoride intake. Karnataka is one among the states that have reported high fluoride content in the groundwater. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of and clinical manifestations suggestive of fluorosis, along with the causes for fluorosis among the population of Kaiwara village. Methodology: The present cross-sectional survey was performed among 3003 permanent residents of Kaiwara village. Demographic details such as age, occupation, education, economic status, and anthropometric details were recorded. Parameters such as predominant diet, genu valgum, and grades of goiter were studied and recorded to determine their association with fluorosis. Dean's index was used to detect dental fluorosis. The levels of fluoride in urine were estimated using the ELICO-LI-126 Fluoride ion analyzer. Results: The most observed age group among study subjects was 10–49 years (males: 813 and females: 1304). Age, diet, genu valgum, and grade of goiter were significantly (P < 0.001) associated with Dean's index. Of the study subjects, about 11.8% were unable to touch their toes indicating fluorosis. 2.075 mg/dl was the mean baseline fluoride level found in all the four samples from the main water tanks supplying water to the village. Out of 100 urine samples randomly taken, all had fluoride levels above the acceptable levels (>0.1 ppm). Conclusion: Hydric fluorosis is endemic among the general population of Kaiwara village in Karnataka. The main leading cause for fluorosis occurrence in this region might be due to high fluoride levels reported in the groundwater.

Introduction: Undergraduate dental training is demanding and rigorous, unaware students face a lot of challenges after entering the course. Thus, the study aims to find out from a dental sophomore the challenges they face during the first year of dental school. Methodology: An e-questionnaire study was conducted on 932 second-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery students of India. The questions help us gauge problems and hurdles faced by a dental sophomore like information related to difficulty levels, laborious nature and so on. Chi-square test is to find out relativity and association between the variables. Results: Pre-clinical prosthodontics was found the most laborious and a gender-wise significant difference (P < 0.01) was noted amongst females (437, 71.06%) and males (157, 49.53%). Conclusion: This study highlighted that students are usually unaware about the course, the type of content reading, learning, laborious nature of practical work and so on.

Background: The study aimed to identify the level of satisfaction and confidence of dental intern students in emergency care emergency room (ER) during COVID-19 Pandemic in order to determine factors that influence their satisfaction such as patient's age, gender, and ethnicity. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted at Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah-Taibah University Dental-College and Hospital. The overall sample included in analysis was 105 dental interns with an average age of 24.7 years who were treating patients between July 2019 and August 2020 in emergency dental clinics at TUCDH. Results: The survey response rate was 100% and 51.4% of the participants felt comfortable and 80% felt confident on emergency days. However, male interns were significantly more comfortable and confident than females (P = 0.001 and 0.022 respectively). Endo-emergency constituted 77% of dental emergencies followed by surgery. 81.9% believe that age is the most challenging factor affecting their ER work, and most of them do not believe that patient's gender and ethnicity affect their performance. Stock shortages were the biggest challenge for their supervisor-led management. Conclusion: Majority of interns feel satisfied with their management of emergency cases during COVID-19 Pandemic with superior male significant meaning. More emergency training programs should be established in the educational dental curriculum to improve their satisfaction and confidence rate, especially for females during pandemics.

Introduction: The spread of coronavirus infection (COVID-19) has been increasing exponentially with significant impact on every aspect of people's lives. Dentists in particular are at a greater risk of disease contraction since majority of the procedures are based on direct contact with patients. Aim: This study attempted to understand the attitude of patients seeking dental treatment during the pandemic. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional, self-administered survey which included validated questions on (1) sociodemographic information of participants; (2) participants' basic knowledge on COVID-19; and (3) the willingness and mindset of participants to pursuit dental treatment during, and after the curfew period. Data were collected and statistically analyzed for significance. Results and Discussion: A total of 904 residents from 25 countries. Participants who, or their family members, experienced dental complaints during the curfew period were able to manage via in-office emergency visit, using over counter medication, tele-dentistry or following friends' advice. In total, 48% (433/904) stated to likely seek dental treatment (if needed) with local curfew lifting and 50.4% (456/904) were likely to wait for more than 4 weeks before visiting the dentist. In total, 70% of participants reported sufficient social distancing and wearing masks by the dental staff would address their concerns during dental treatments. Conclusion: Personal financial conditions, lack of awareness, and fear of contracting COVI-19 were identified as important influencing factors for the general public to return for professional dental care. Future, long-term studies to better understand the psychosocial effects of the current pandemic on individuals should be considered.

Ozone is a form of oxygen which has shown to be fruitful in the management of various diseases for many years now. Ozone therapy is slowly emerging as an alternative treatment modality for many dental pathologies catering to all age groups. It has proven to be beneficial than conventional strategies with applications to dental treatment. The present article aims to discuss the role of ozone in the management of certain conditions in the oral cavity and its possible clinical applications in the future.

Context: Various universities have set in a wave of adapting to the newer concepts of teaching–learning to keep pace with the millennial learners. Blended learning is a new teaching–learning method that combines online activity along with face-to-face activity. Flipped classroom approach is the use of Web-enabled strategies that free up class time to allow teachers to spend more time guiding their students. Aim: To assess the impact of flipped classroom approach on the teaching–learning outcomes of dental undergraduates. Settings and Design: A prospective comparative educational intervention was conducted in the Oral Medicine and Radiology department of a private dental college in Belagavi. Methods and Materials: Forty third-year undergraduates were equally allocated into the traditional learning group (20) and flipped classroom learning group (20). A pretest/posttest format was employed with mandatory feedback. For flipped classroom approach, an audio/video lecture of 10 minutes duration was shared through learning management software. The assessment was MCQs and case-based. Statistical Analysis: Mann–Whitney U and Wilcoxon matched-pairs tests were used for intergroup and intragroup comparisons, respectively. Results: The mean posttest score was significantly higher in flipped classroom method than in the traditional method (P = 0.0001). Performance on case-based questions was highly statistically significant in the flipped classroom group with a mean rank of 29.8 (P < 0.001). Intragroup comparison between the mean pretest and posttest scores in the flipped classroom showed a high statistical significance (P = 0.0001). Conclusions: Flipped classroom teaching should be recommended as it has the advantages of providing students with a pace of learning, peer learning, instant feedback, and using classroom time effectively. Faculty have to invest time, but nothing is greater than a meaningful teaching–learning experience.

Background: Pandemics harm mental health by inducing stressors such as frustration, boredom, financial loss, self-isolation, fear of infection, and stigmatization. Students are vulnerable and at risk of ill effects of these stressors. Aim: The objective of this study was to determine the mental health status and associated social risk factors among dental students in Malaysia during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Materials and Methods: This was an online cross-sectional study done using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 questionnaire. The study was carried among the undergraduate dental students in Malaysia, during the period of compulsory self-quarantine. The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress (DAS) and their median scores were computed and analyzed with sociodemographic factors using Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis test, odds ratio, and Chi-square test. Results: The prevalence of DAS was 33.5%, 28.7%, and 7.3%, respectively, with no gender differences. Depression increased with increasing age (P = 0.043) and year of study (P = 0.015). The prevalence of depression was the highest in the students of Indian ethnicity (44%; P = 0. 018). Students from public universities reported a higher prevalence of anxiety (34%; P = 0.019) and stress scores (P = 0.013). A family's financial crisis increased the risk of DAS (P < 0.05). Being quarantined with family increased the odds of anxiety by 2.8 times (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Students were found to be vulnerable to the negative psychological impact of self-quarantine as measured by their mental health status. The study also identified demographic and social risk factors contributing toward this vulnerability.

Context: Plumeria alba, commonly known as frangipani or West Indian jasmine, is a traditional and ancient folklore medicine known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The extracts from P. alba obtained from the leaves, bark, and flowers, are commonly used to manage bacterial, fungal, and viral infections such as herpes, scabies, and fungal infections. The constituents of the P. alba plant have shown promising antihelmintic, antipyretic, and antirheumatic properties. Although studies have confirmed that extracts from Plumeria species are effective against microbial infections and cancer, its role in managing oral diseases, particularly the chronic inflammatory disease of the gums (gingivitis and periodontitis), has never been explored. Therefore, the current study aimed to explore the antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties of the P. alba flower extract against oral and periodontal pathogens compared to chlorhexidine and doxycycline. Settings and Design: This was an in vitro study. Materials and Methods: The ethanolic extract was prepared from the freshly plucked P. alba flowers. The antimicrobial properties of the extract were evaluated by testing the minimal inhibitory concentration, minimal bactericidal concentration, and well-diffusion assay against Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythia, Streptococcus mutans, Actinomyces viscosus, Streptococcus salivarius, and Candida albicans. The results were compared to chlorhexidine and doxycycline. The cytotoxicity was checked by the against human-derived gingival fibroblast and keratinocytes. Statistical Analysis Used: One-way ANOVA for the mean zones of inhibition against all the microorganisms was done. Results: P. alba extract inhibited the growth for all the tested oral and periodontal pathogens at 25 μg/ml. The well-diffusion assay of P. alba extract was comparable to chlorhexidine but was not statistically significant compared to doxycycline. Conclusion: P. alba can be used as a promising alternative to chlorhexidine for the management of oral and periodontal infections.

Introduction: Malpractice is one of the most significant hazards to patient safety in healthcare and is considered the second factor associated with the overall quality of the healthcare system. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of malpractice in dentistry and its possible causes in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during 2009-2015. Methodology: A cross-sectional retrospective analysis of the dental complaints filed by the patients in the general directorate of forensic medicine centers in Riyadh was reviewed, and the data was collected. Descriptive statistics of frequency distribution and percentages were calculated using the collected data. The Chi-square test for categorical variables was performed with a significance level set at P < 0.05. Results: The Riyadh region reported 168 (14.5%) dental malpractice cases during 2009- 2015. The highest number of malpractice cases was reported in 2010 (18.45%), and the least number of cases was reported in 2011 (10.1%). Prosthodontic specialty had the highest number of lawsuits (32.4%), followed by orthodontics (20.2%) and endodontics (15.8%). The Chi-square test showed no association between the different specialties and types of malpractice (P = 0.881) and between compensation and the type of malpractice (P = 0.832). Among the 114 cases, financial compensation was the most common retribution. Conclusion: Dental malpractice prevalence was high in the private sector, followed by the government and military sectors, with the highest number of cases registered against the prosthodontic specialty. Dental malpractice is a serious concern that can be prevented by fair and honest policies and thorough patient education.

The novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and the most probable route of entrance for the SARS-CoV-2 virus is suggested to be that of oral mucosa as it contains angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors, which acts as a cellular doorway for the entry of the virus. Anti-viral and broad-spectrum antibiotics used to treat COVID-19 can be responsible for oral problems associated with soft tissue, saliva production, and neurological-based oral sensations reported even in fully recovered patients. Oral manifestations like loss of taste (complete ageusia or partial hypogeusia) and altered taste were most common, followed by various lesions and plaques affecting the intraoral site. Poor oral hygiene can lead to complications in patients suffering from systemic diseases such as diabetes, kidney, and liver disease. Since oral health has a significant impact on a patient's general health, improved oral hygiene can significantly decrease the risk of oropharyngeal colonization and respiratory complications, especially in the elderly and patients admitted to the intensive care unit. Due to the high risk of COVID-19 transmission among dentists and patients, it is important to re-design recommendations to oral medicine and dentists working in the hospital setting to manage oral manifestations. Oral health-related quality of life is an all-encompassing term used to denote how one's oral health impacts on their ability to function normally can be a crucial subjective measure to analyze oral health during these challenging times.

Aim: To evaluate the effects of exposure parameters (tube current and voltage) to detect clear and unclear mandibular canals (MCs) using a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) or photo-stimulable phosphor plate (PSP) sensors. Methods: A total of 24 dry half-mandibles were divided into two groups with clear (n = 16) and unclear (n = 8) MCs. The retro-alveolar parallel technique was performed in the six-molar region of the mandibles using direct and indirect digital intra-oral sensors. Six combinations of tube voltage (kV) (60 kV, 66 kV, and 70 kV) and tube current (mA) (2 mA, 5 mA, and 8 mA) were applied, and 144 images of each group were obtained with each CMOS and PSP sensor. Images were processed using Image J software. To evaluate diagnostic accuracy, two square images of the first-molar region were obtained from each image, one with the MC inside and the other without the MC (a total of 576 images were observed). Three radiologists diagnosed the presence or absence of MCs. The diagnostic accuracy of each exposure parameter was compared with the area under the curve (Az) in receiver-operating characteristic analysis. Results: The Az values for clear MCs were higher than those for unclear MCs (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences when the tube current was modified. For unclear MCs, the Az increased when higher tube voltages were used, showing a significant difference using the PSP sensor (p = 0.004). There was no significant difference for clear MCs. Conclusions: Lower exposure parameters should be used for clear MCs, while higher tube voltage values should be used for unclear MCs.

Introduction: Ethical practice in health care is defined as consisting of informed consent, respect for integrity, and patient's autonomy. In the past few years, there has been an increase in the number of disputes ranging from inadequate and inappropriate treatments to serious problems of medical malpractice and negligence. There is thus a growing need to identify whether or not patients are satisfied with services provided and which ethical challenges, if any, patients value most in a health-care setting. This is not only to elevate the quality of treatment but also to potentially avoid unnecessary legal complications. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the opinion of patients at a dental hospital about some commonly encountered ethical challenges and to investigate the ethical challenges which patients feel most important to them. Materials and Methods: One hundred and two participants were recruited for this cross-sectional study among patients who have visited the dental hospital more than twice. Each participant completed a self-administered questionnaire on some common ethical challenges. A three-point Likert scale was used. Data were entered in Microsoft Excel 2016 spreadsheet (Microsoft, USA), and Chi-square test was performed using SPSS (IBM) software (version 23.0). The results were considered as statistically significant when P < 0.05. Results: Seventy percent of the participants felt that doctors were competent in completing procedure in the time frame, and 82% felt that doctors followed the personal hygiene protocol. Only 47% of the participants felt that doctors accommodated missed appointments/lateness. Category E (infection control) was the category most commonly selected as the most important ethical challenge to patients with 36% of the participants. Conclusion: Participants were satisfied with a majority of the clinical services provided. The majority of the patients considered doctor competence and infection control as important issues. There is, however, a general lack of awareness regarding ethical issues in the dental field.

Introduction: Recent Cochrane review has recommended sealants in preventing occlusal caries in children and adolescents but its use in clinical practice is still underutilized all over the world. Aim: The aim was to assess knowledge, opinion, values, and practice among dental practitioners in Bangalore city. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sampling of 312 general dental practitioners (GDP) in Bangalore city. The data was collected using an anonymous, self-reporting 5-point Likert-scaled questionnaire by Martin et al., and analyzed using SPSS version 21 and ANOVA and t-test was utilized for analyzing the results P < 0.05 was regarded as significant. Results: Effectiveness of fissure sealants is supported by strong scientific evidence and also as a restorative material, 76% of the GDP agreed and 86.9% thought that it is difficult to justify the cost of sealants to parents. 62.2% valued that fissure sealants are used less than they should have been. Most of them had a positive attitude toward sealant application. Conclusion: Dental practitioners knowledge of pit and fissure sealant is high and attitude is also positive but when comes to practice it has been underutilized.

Background: Tobacco usage can be equated to an unending progressive pandemic which continues to spread globally at an alarming unhindered pace. Dental surgeons have a key role in initiating reduction and even cessation of tobacco habits. Hence, the present study was undertaken for analyzing the habits of tobacco use among dental and nondental students of Indian population. Materials and Methods: A total of 500 dental students and 500 nondental students were enrolled in the present study. Among dental students, only interns were enrolled across different dental colleges of India. A questionnaire was framed and was sent to all the students in the form of Google Forms. The questionnaire contained questions pertaining to the assessment of prevalence of tobacco use and type of tobacco use habit. All the results were recorded and analyzed. Results: Five hundred dental students and 500 nondental students were enrolled. Among the dental group, tobacco use habits were present in 23.8% of the students, whereas in the nondental group, tobacco use habits were present in 43.6% of the students. While comparing the prevalence of tobacco use habits among the dental and nondental groups, significant results were obtained. In the dental group, smoking habit and chewing habit were present in 44.54% and 32.77% of the students, respectively. In the nondental group, smoking habit and chewing habit were present in 52.29% and 29.82% of the students, respectively. While comparing the pattern of tobacco use among students of the two study groups, nonsignificant results were obtained. Conclusion: There is an urgent need of tobacco cessation programs in the community to decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with it.

Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been employed widely in dental and oral surgery. However, there is considerable debate about its effect on wound healing and inflammatory response. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus data base, and manual search were performed to find out articles on the use of PRP in dental and oral surgery using keywords such as PRP , oral surgery, dental surgery, lower wisdom teeth, periodontal pocket, dental implant, tooth socket preservation, dry socket, cystic lesion, and ridge augmentation. These articles discussed the use of PRP (after surgical removal of wisdom teeth, treatment of periodontal pocket, ridge preservation, implant stability, prevention of dry socket, treatment of bony defect after cystic removal, and ridge augmentation). Results: Twenty-seven articles were found on the usage of PRP in dental and oral surgery. Six articles on the use of PRP after surgical removal of lower wisdom teeth, five articles in the treatment of periodontal pocket and implant stability, four article in ridge preservation, three articles in prevention of dry socket and two articles on the use of PRP after cystic removal and ridge augomentation. Conclusion: PRP enhanced bone regeneration and soft-tissue healing aftery lower wisdom tooth surgery. It decreased the depth of periodontal pocket, maintained implant stability, preserved ridge height and prevented dry socket. However, PRP had no effect on pain, swelling, and bleeding. There is no justification for the impact of PRP on bone augmentation and healing of bony defect after cystic removal of the jaws. More studies should be carried out to support the usage of PRP in oral and dental surgery.

Context: Scientific research is an indispensable part of health-care curricula and a crucial exercise to help evolve clinician's research adroitness. Aims: The survey was planned to gauge and assess the postgraduates (PGs) dental students knowledge, attitude, and interest toward scientific research and to determine the factors and their perception for the dearth of research interest. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based research was done after the approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee and obtaining written informed consent from participants. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 224 (1st year, 2nd year, and 3rd year PGs) dental students of a private dental college in Kanpur city with a prevalidated structured questionnaire on the research principles was developed, and the students were asked to fill the questionnaire. Results: In the present study, 73% of the PGs did not know the definition of the research hypothesis. Ninety-two percent of PGs do not know the significance of scale 0–5 in researches, and 75% of PGs were unaware of the value of taking approval for conducting a research study. These results were statistically significant (P < 0.05). PGs have not participated in any research projects during their under-graduation or internship (93%) nor have written any scientific publication (94%), and the results obtained were statistically significant. The lack of time due to the vast curriculum of PG students (55%) and lack of interest (52%) were the personal reasons, whereas inadequate financial support (47%) and lack of time (49%) were among the institutional reasons for not conducting the research. Conclusions: A positive attitude but with a deficient level of knowledge and interest in context to research was found among PG dental students. Various factors such as vast PG syllabus, lack of time, deficient financial support, and lack of proper seemed to be the barriers in pursuing research.

Introduction: The regard for dentistry as a profession has been declining over the recent years in light of the increasing number of dental students graduating per year with negligible improvement in the utilization of oral health care services. In this context, it is important to document the perceptions and apprehensions of the current dental students as these feelings would have an influence on the roles they assume as dentists in future. Aim: With this background, this study attempts to document the willingness of dental students from three South Indian states to re-choose dentistry given an opportunity. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted among house surgeons from 12 dental institutions, 4 each from the southern Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamilnadu. The semi-structured questionnaire used in this study consisted of five primary questions along with details on the participants' gender, type of admission. It aimed at documenting the willingness to re-choose dentistry given an opportunity, and the reasons for their willingness or otherwise. A total of 822 students constituted the final sample. SPSS version 20 software was used to analyse the data. Results: Majority of the study participants were from Tamil Nadu, not reported dentistry as their primary career choice, and demonstrated reluctance in re-choosing dentistry given an opportunity. A significantly higher percentage of dental students from Tamil Nadu reported dentistry as their first professional choice. This observation persisted in the response of students for the question on their willingness to re-choose dentistry. Conclusion: The study results demonstrate the declining interest and regard for dentistry among the current dental students with nominal variations between students from the three South Indian states.

Background: Dental students practice on extracted human teeth (EHT) in their preclinical to learn professional and technical skills before performing dental procedures on patients. Aim: The aim of the present investigation was to assess the management of EHT among dental students in the east coastal region of India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on II, III, and IV Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students from five dental colleges in India's east coastal region, which were chosen using the fishbowl technique. Data was collected using a pretested, validated self-administered questionnaire and analysed using the Chi-square test, Mann–Whitney test, Kruskal–Wallis test, and linear regression. Results: A total of 649 students participated from five dental colleges, among them, 43.6% (283) were II BDS, 29.6% (192) were III BDS, and 26.8% (174) were IV BDS. About 66% of the participants do not know that the EHT are a source of infection; 22% of them noted that there was an incidence of infection with the use of EHT; 81.5% do not know that guidelines have to be given by the regulatory body/institution to handle EHT. Only 2% of the people think it was necessary to disinfect/sterilize EHT before use, while 33% of the study population felt that there was a need to wear mouth masks and gloves while working on EHT. In the study group, only 43% know that formalin was used as a storage/disinfecting medium for EHT and 80% of them experienced hazards due to chemicals used for storage/disinfecting medium of EHT. Conclusion: The results of this investigation stipulated that awareness, attitude, and practices of undergraduate students in relation to the handling of EHT were poor. However, deficiencies were observed in relation to teaching the materials and methods suitable for the management of EHT which reveals the need to incorporate the guidelines in their curriculum.

Background: Burnout syndrome (BS) is related to work and is generally seen among health-care professionals including students. Students use various coping mechanisms to deal with stress and burnout and extracurricular activities are one among them. Aim: The aim of the study is to assess the burnout levels of dental students and its association with the indulgence in extracurricular activities (ECA). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted among students of a deemed university dental school in south India. All the students from 1st year to 5th year (internship), both regular and supplementary batches were included. Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey was used to assess burnout which consists of 15 items on three domains emotional exhaustion (EE), cynicism (CY), and professional efficacy (PE). All the responses were scored on a five point Likert scale. Mann–Whitney U-test and Poisson log-linear model were used. A P ≤ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: A total of 208 participants were included in the final analyses. Majority of the participants were females (84.1%) and 1st-year students (26.4%). The mean age of the participants was 20.6 ± 1.8 years. The prevalence of BS was 19.7%. A significant difference was seen for the participation in ECA and all the three domains (EE, CY, PE) of BS (P values 0.029, 0.004 and 0.006, respectively). Conclusion: The prevalence of burnout can be considered as high among the participants. Early screening for burnout in dental students and effective interventions at earlier stages is required.

Introduction: Dental education quality is reflected by assessing graduating students' professional preparedness. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has had many challenges for dentistry some of which may have further long-term impacts on clinical practice, dental education, and dental research. Impact on education can be directly reflected on graduates' preparedness. Aim: The aim of this study is to study self-perceived preparedness of dental school graduates and the impact of COVID-19 on their preparedness. Materials and Methods: An online survey was designed and sent electronically to 5th year students who were graduating in 2020, dentists who graduated in 2019 and were doing their prelicensure training, and dentists who graduated before 2019. The survey was self-designed and validated by an experienced professor in the school then tested by couple of participants. The survey composed of multiple sections. Four-point Likert scale was used to assess participants' perception in all the survey sections. Results and Discussion: A total of 209 participants responded to the online questionnaire. The mean total preparedness score (TPS) for the 209 participants was 97.6 (standard deviation ± 9.7) with a range of 69–120. The mean TPS of the different classes of participants was 99.5 for the class graduated before 2019, 98.1 for the 2020 class, and 95.1 for the 2019 class. Participants felt they are confident and extremely confident doing most of the required competencies. Weakness was mainly reported in surgical extraction for 2020 graduates due to the 8 weeks loss of their training. COVID-19 had considerable impact on 59.7% of the participants and marginal to no impact on 40.3%. The highest prevalence of those who thought it had some to severe impact on their confidence was those who graduated in year 2019 (73.4%). Conclusions: The graduates who participated in the survey felt confident in performing the majority of general dentistry procedures. COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the confidence of all the classes of participants even those graduated before 2019.

Introduction: Undergraduate oral and maxillofacial radiology curricula are currently undergoing a reform process that is moving toward digital-based radiology that requires dedicated resources to train dental students to the field experience. It is not known if the time is appropriate to totally shift from training students on conventional analog film-based radiology to training them on digital images and the choice of digital system in intraoral and extraoral radiography. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess availability and utilization of the digital radiographic techniques by dental clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, using a cross-sectional descriptive, epidemiological survey. Materials and Methods: The study included dental departments of nine main governmental hospitals, six dental schools in Riyadh and a representative selected sample of the private dental clinics in Riyadh that included 40 dental clinics. A self-administered e-survey regarding the use of analog or digital radiographic intraoral and extraoral techniques was made. Descriptive statistics are reported in forms of means and range. Results and Discussion: For intraoral radiographic examinations, most clinics (90.9%) used digital systems. Solid-state detectors such as charge-coupled device (CCD) and complementary metal oxide semiconductor sensors were the most popular type digital intraoral sensors (94%) and only 13 locations (26%) used digital photostimulable phosphors plates. For panoramic radiography, almost all (98.1%) used digital systems. Again, the solid-state detectors were the most common digital panoramic system (96.4%). Most respondents had a digital information system to store, retrieve, and display digital radiographs (92.7%), whereas only four locations (5.9%) used hard-copy films or paper prints. Conclusion: Digital imagining is more common than film-based imaging in intraoral radiography in and panoramic radiography in the different dental care delivery sites in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Background: Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been sweeping around the globe and the cases have been reported in India since the second week of March, with Chennai being one of the most affected cities. Healthcare professionals, particularly the dental personnel have a higher risk of infection due to close face-to-face contact and the risk of inhalation of aerosolised particles. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice about COVID-19 among interns, post-graduate trainees and dental practitioners. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using Google forms among three groups: interns, post-graduate trainees and dental practitioners. Data obtained was analysed by Chi-square test, Kruskal–Wallis and post hoc test using SPSS IBM software. Results: Of total score of 9 for knowledge-based questions, the score obtained by interns, post-graduate trainees and practitioners were 7.2, 7.2 and 7.5, respectively, with no statistically significant difference among the groups (P = 0.24). Of total score of 4 for attitude-based questions, the score obtained by interns, post-graduate trainees and practitioners were 1.6, 2.0, and 1.9, respectively, with statistically significant difference among the groups (0.009). Of total score of 7 for practice-based questions, the score obtained by interns, post-graduate trainees and practitioners were 3.2, 3.3, and 3.1, respectively, with no statistically significant difference among them (P = 0.63). Conclusion: Though the knowledge about COVID-19 appeared adequate, the attitude and practice component needs improvement. Continuing dental education programs and webinars can be conducted to update the dental professionals about the protocols to be followed during COVID-19 pandemic.

Glycyrrhiza glabra has been used as medicine in Ayurveda and flavouring herb for more than 4000 years. It is reported to have antiviral, anticancer, anti-ulcer, anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant,anti-malarial, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, immune-stimulant, antithrombotic, anticonvulsant, anti-allergenic and expectorant activities. The presence of alkaloids, tannins, essential oils and flavonoids prevent the adherence of bacteria to the tooth surfaces, inhibit glucan production and have inhibitory effect on amylases. This paper presents a review of role of Glycyrrhiza glabra in dentistry.

The epidemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has infected millions of people and put a huge amount of stress on the health-care system. Health-care professionals, including dental professionals, are at a high risk of acquiring COVID-19. Therefore, extra precautions need to be implemented for routine dental infection control procedures. It is encouraged to have a written reminder in the form of a checklist to recall these crucial steps, especially when nonroutine procedures must be followed. The aim of this special communication is to present a proposed mnemonic or memory-recall, user-friendly checklist to be used in the dental clinic during the COVID-19 outbreak. The checklist was created following the guidelines for reopening dental services in governmental and private sectors during the COVID-19 pandemic that were published by the Ministry of Health on June 5, 2020. Based on the patient's score and the urgency of the dental situation, specific steps should be followed. When the patient's score is ≥ 4 and needs an emergency aerosol-generating procedure, REDS steps should be recalled. Further, MRS steps must be followed if the patient's score is < 4. For both groups, GAMES can be followed when personal protective equipment is needed before the patient examination and HD steps should be applied after finishing the dental procedure. In conclusion, this written reminder in the form of a checklist can be helpful for a safe dental practice during pandemics to recall the crucial nonroutine steps. We recommend that the dental staff place those steps as a written reminder in an accessible, visible place.

Context: Severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) is one of the major problems affecting the tooth structure in childhood before 71 months of age. It may affect both In vitro fertilization (IVF) and spontaneously conceived children. Aims: This study was aimed to evaluate, identify, and compare the prevalence of S-ECC in the deciduous dentition of IVF and spontaneously conceived children before 71 months of age. Settings and Design: In a cross-sectional, observational, case–control study, the S-ECC status of children aged 24–71 months was assessed. The studied case group comprised term, singleton babies who were the outcome of IVF in the studied area. The control group comprised term, first child, singleton, and spontaneously conceived 24–71-month-old children who were also resident of the studied area. A sample of 103 IVF and 162 spontaneously conceived children was examined utilizing Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST). Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square tests (c2) or Z test. Results: A statistically significant difference was found in some aspects among the studied, i.e., IVF children, and control group, i.e., spontaneously conceived children. Conclusions: IVF children are considered better than spontaneously conceived children in some aspects when studied in relation to S-ECC status evaluated through CAST.

Aims: The aim of the study is to measure the prevalence and factors associated with dental fear among National Guard male middle schools students. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 468 students aged 10–17 years. The assessment tool of this study was a self-reported questionnaire filled by students or their legal guardians. The questionnaire included 33 questions; including students' demographics and experience in dental fear. Furthermore, questions related to the most frightening factors as well as factors that make students feel better in dental clinics. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software. Frequency distributions with numbers and percentages of demographics, frightening factors, and comforting factors were conducted. Results: The response rate was 87%. Dental fear was reported by 29.1% of the sample. Tooth extraction was feared the most (49%) followed by root canal treatment (16%). The main sources of fear were related to dental procedures and noise from drilling teeth. The fear was originated from children own experience (41%) and only 13% relate their fear to what they heard from other people's experience. Variables reduced fear were female dentists (73%), the good reputation of the dentist (55%), and elegance and cleanness of the clinic (47%). The good appearance and neatness of the dentist, attitude of the receptionist, and decreased waiting time were not major factors in reducing dental fear. Conclusion: Dental fear was present in 29% of schoolchildren and was mostly related to tooth extractions and drilling noise. Dentist's explanation of the dental procedure and her attitudes were reported as helping factors in reducing dental fear.

Introduction: Mandible undergoes age- and sex-related structural changes similar to other bones of the body. Thus, morphometric analysis of the mandible helps in age and sex determination. Aim: To investigate the influence of age and sex on the mandible by measuring three parameters, i.e. gonial angle, ramus height and bigonial width. Materials and Methods: A retrospective radiomorphometric analysis was conducted in the department of Oral Medicine and Radiology. A total of 300 panoramic radiographs (150 males and 150 females) equally distributed in six study groups according to the age were analysed. The measurements were performed using DIGORA 2.8 software for Windows. The acquired data was statistically analysed by one way ANOVA test and Student's t-test using SPSS (v. 19.0). Results: Statistically significant differences according to age were found in gonial angle dimensions. Ramus height and bigonial width did not demonstrate statistically significant co-relation with age. According to sex, all the three study parameters showed statistically highly significant differences. Conclusion: The morphometric analysis of the mandible is a useful tool for age estimation and sex determination.

Context: The device for dental radiographic standardization (DDRS) was developed to minimize the distortions in conventional periapical radiographs or digital subtraction, improving the effectiveness of the technique. Objectives: The objective of this study is to present the DDRS and prove its effectiveness through comparative test, performed with the techniques of Bissetrix and Parallelism. Configurations and Design: The DDRS adapts to the universal radiographic positioner, is economical, and easy to operate. It is recommended for the use in research, where standardization is a requirement. Subjects and Methods: DDRS is produced using the additive manufacturing method for prototyping, after creating a three-dimensional (3D) model using a specific program (Autodesk Inventor 2016, Autodesk, Inc, California, USA). The final prototype was converted to the STL format, which was later read by a 3D printer (3D Machine ONE, São Paulo, Brazil). To perform the tests, three radiographic techniques were compared, Bisecting angle technique, parallelism and DDRS fitted to the universal positioner, and two examiners performed the evaluation independently. Statistical Analysis Used: Differences between the techniques were compared by the analysis of variance, followed by Dunnett’s multiple comparisons. The variability of the measured values among the techniques was compared by the Levene’s test. The intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated to evaluate the reproducibility and interexaminer agreement for each technique and parameter. Results: DDRS eliminates the effect of distortion factors that normally affect conventional methods, allowing greater reliability in the interpretation of the image before, during, and after treatment. Conclusions: The DDRS should be used for clinical and routine research purposes, facilitating comparisons of the same image at different time intervals, with minimized errors of vertical and horizontal angulation. This allows greater reliability in the interpretation of the image in relation to the structures of interest.

Aim: The present study aimed at analysing the probable effects of full mouth oral rehabilitation on bite forces at their maximum extent in young paediatric patients with primary as well as mixed dentitions. Methodology: The present study is one of a kind and explores the maximum bite forces in young children. A statistically significant number of children (n = 30) with a mean age of 6.54 years. About 44.75% were boys and 55.25% were girls. The maximum voluntary bite force was assessed for each participant immediately before treatment and 1 month (3–5 weeks) following completion of the needful dental treatment. The difference in bite force magnitude before and after dental treatment was analysed statistically. In addition, the correlations of key variables including, age, height, weight, BMI, gender and caries severity or dental status with maximum bite force were statistically analysed. Results: The mean maximum bite force for the total sample (n = 30) prior to treatment was found to be 167.83 N (SD = 65.20). The mean bite force in the male subgroup was 175.39 N (SD = 64.69) while for the females the mean bite force was equal to 166.29 N (SD = 68.93). Following comprehensive dental treatment, the recorded mean maximum bite force for the children (n = 30) who attended the post-treatment review appointment was 182.60 N (SD = 68.58). Conclusion: The essential factors such as the extent of dental caries, their severity, presence of clinical signs and symptoms has a negative impact on maximum bite force.

Background: Evidence-based practice is the cornerstone of dentistry and especially endodontics. Diagnosis, treatment planning, and treatment with recent advancement based on evidence would be a great help for the patent satisfaction and treatment prognosis; hence, the aim of present study was to explore difference between perception, knowledge, and practice of endodontists and general dental practitioners (GDPs) towards evidence-based practice and factors associated with it. Materials and Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional descriptive questionnaire study conducted among specialists in the subject of conservative and endodontic dentistry and GDPs working in private clinics in Modinagar city, Uttar Pradesh. The study was conducted in October 2019. In the present study, a close-ended questionnaire was prepared to determine the perception and practice of dental specialists. Results: The majority of endodontists (31 [35.22%]) belonged to the age group of 36–45 years of age while most of the GDPs (32 [36.36%]) belonged to 25–35 years of age group. The majority of endodontists were females (56[63.64%]) and most of the GDPs were males (50 (56.81]). More endodontists (47 [53.42]) had a positive perception of evidence-based practice than GDPs (15[16.42]). Practice toward evidence was fair among most of the endodontists (49 [55.68%]) and GDPs (54 [61.36%]). Conclusion: There was a more positive perception regarding evidence-based practice among endodontists than GDPs, knowledge was high among endodontists regarding evidence-based practice and practice was also good among endodontists. Factors associated with perception, knowledge, and practice among endodontists and GDPs were age in years, gender, year of practice, number of endodontic patients treating per month.

Background: Choosing postgraduate subject as a future career is always tricky but there are factors associated which persuade the dental undergrads to choose the particular postgraduate course and orthodontics is one of them. Hence, the aim of present study was to determine motivating factors associated with choosing orthodontics for future prospects among newly passed out undergraduate dental professionals. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive questionnaire study. The present study is conducted among the freshly pass out dental professionals who had started their setup. The study was conducted in October–November 2019. The study was conducted among three cities of Maharashtra. Convenient sampling was used to select the samples. A close ended questionnaire was prepared. Results: Majority of study participants {64 (45.39%)} belonged to age group 26–28 years. Females respondents {82 (58.15%)} were more than male study participants. Majority of dental professionals {71 (50.35%)} choose orthodontics dentofacial orthopedics as the specialty for future prospect. Most common reasons {16 (22.57%)} to choose orthodontics for future prospect by majority of respondents was “Can earn more money.” Age was significantly (P = 005*) associated with money as reason to choose orthodontic as future prospect. Gender was significantly associated with family pressure (P = 0.01*) and love, interest, and passion for orthodontics (P = 0.01*). Conclusion: It was concluded that majority of dental professionals choose orthodontic as their preferred choice. Main reason for choosing orthodontics was monetary benefits followed by the reason that finds orthodontics intellectually and clinically challenging.

Background: Person's physical, dental appearance, and sexual identity are the characteristics most obvious to others. Prior researches suggest that visible sign of unhealthy dental status may lead to an individual's social or professional exclusion, so the aim of the study was to measure the influence of dental appearance on hiring managers' perception of intelligence, honesty and efficiency of job applicants in Saudi Arabia, and the likelihood of employment opportunity. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study comprised 280 hiring managers. All participants were assigned randomly into two groups and received a survey with 10 different images for hypothetical job applicants. The images were digitally manipulated to have the Saudi national dress and to represent different dental conditions. The photos in both surveys were the opposite with no repetition except for 3 for reliability. Each evaluator randomly received one survey without knowing of the other. Participants were asked questions about their perception of honesty, intelligence, efficiency, and potential employability of the provided applicants' photos. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in demographics data between the hiring managers assigned to both groups. Hypothetical job applicants with smiles affected by malocclusion were perceived to be less intelligent with P value = 0.0001, but there was no altered perception for honesty and efficiency. Moreover, applicants with caries were perceived to be less honest, intelligent, and efficient by the hiring managers with P value of 0.0007, 0.0011 and 0.0138, respectively. Applicants with dental imperfections compared to normal smile were 52% less likely to be employed. Conclusion: Dental appearance might alter people perception about the character of the affected person, and it might influence the judgment of future employers when screening for candidates; as a result, we recommend more educational programs for the public and hiring managers.

Purpose: The history of dentistry is not short; it started from ancient Egypt to ancient Romans and ancient Greeks. When it comes to extraction, all of them have made their own discoveries and progress. The progress they made also helped dentistry to move ahead in evolution of new extraction technique – the Physics Forceps. We have assessed the viability in using the Physics Forceps for routine dental extraction in our study for a period of 1 year. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 241 patients indicated for extraction based on our inclusion criteria using Physics Forceps after obtaining informed consent and University Ethics Committee approval. Tooth fracture, buccal alveolar bone fracture, and soft tissue injury around the tooth to be extracted were studied. Results: In our present study of 241 patients, 57.67% were females and 42.32% were males, out of which 93.77% had no tooth fracture, 3.32% had crown fracture, 1.65% had root fracture, and 1.24% had apex fracture. Further, 85.47% had no buccal alveolar bone fracture and 14.53% had buccal alveolar bone fracture. Using proper technique, 96.26% of patients had no soft tissue damage, and minimal damage was seen in 3.73% of patients. Discussion: Extraction by Physics Forceps is a very good technique of extraction. No or very minimal tooth fracture and soft tissue injury were noted. Though the forceps is costly, it represents a valuable addition to regular armamentarium for a general dentist for routine extraction. Physics Forceps is a dental extractor rather than a forceps.