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Fulltext Oral health awareness and status among Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia first year dental students

Zamirah Zainal Abidin, Shahida Mohd Said, Irma Shida Abu Samah, Mohd Yufi Ariandi Mohd Yusoff

Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2005;3(1):1-16.
MyJurnal

The oral health awareness and status among the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia first year dental students were studied. Seventy-three subjects underwent two components of assessment: questionnaire assessing oral health awareness and behaviour, and clinical examination of oral health status. Indices used including Plaque, Calculus, Community Periodontal Index for Treatment Needs (CPITN) and total score of Decayed, Missing, Filled and teeth indicated for Extraction (DMFX[T]). More than 90% of the subjects were reported to brush their teeth twice or more daily and used supplemental cleaning tools. They also knew the importance of healthy oral condition, the various causes and prevention of tooth decay and gum diseases. Although 70.3% felt they need dental treatment, the majority (81.9%) visited the dentist only when they feel it is necessary to do so. Clinical examination showed low scores of 0.99 and 0.40 for mean plaque and calculus indices, respectively, while 80.8% of the subjects have mild calculus accumulation. Code 2 of the CPITN Index was the highest (70.3%) among the subjects. The total DMFX was 291, with mean score of 0.14 per subject and the decayed component was the highest (D=186 teeth). These findings suggest that the subjects have acceptable oral health awareness, and also good existing oral health status.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Effectiveness of "OralDETECT": a Repetitive Test-enhanced, Corrective Feedback Method Competency Assessment Tool for Early Detection of Oral Cancer

Zain RB, Pateel DGS, Ramanathan A, Kallarakkal TG, Wong GR, Yang YH, et al.

J Cancer Educ, 2020 Aug 21.
PMID: 32821988 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-020-01814-1

Early diagnosis of oral cancer results in less aggressive treatment and improves the quality of life and overall 5-year survival rate. Well-trained dental professionals can play a crucial role in the early detection of oral cancers. The present study aims to determine the effectiveness of the training program "OralDETECT", a spaced repetitive, test-enhanced learning tool with a corrective feedback mechanism for early detection of oral cancer. Thirty-two dentists and 259 dental students from three Malaysian dental schools were involved in this study. All participants were trained and calibrated to recognize oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) and oral cancer using "OralDETECT", which is comprised of a series of pre-test, lecture, post-tests and review sessions. The percentage of correct answers (scores) for each test given by the participants was calculated and analysed using a paired t test. It was found that the overall percentage of diagnostic accuracy for both dental professionals and student groups increased to above 80% from the pre-tests to the final post-tests. There was a significant improvement in overall scores between the pre-tests and all three post-tests for the dental professional groups and the student groups. The diagnostic accuracy for individual OPMD and lesions suspicious of oral cancer also increased to above 80% for both groups. The results of our study demonstrate that the "OralDETECT" is an efficient and effective competency tool which can be used to train dental professionals and students for the early detection of OPMD and oral cancer.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Fulltext Radiographic considerations in endodontics

Yusof, Z.Y.M., Nambiar, P.

Malaysian Dental Journal, 2007;28(1):51-58.
MyJurnal

Quality radiographs of diagnostic value are important in root canal treatment. The dentist who has knowledge and skills in the use of radiographs for diagnostic purposes has a professional responsibility to ensure that the radiographs are obtained with minimum risk of radiation dose to and for the benefit of the patient. This article reviews the effectiveness of radiography techniques required for successful root canal treatment with the patient’s interest in mind. Awareness of effectual radiographic techniques, their constraints and applicable techniques for improvements are discussed. It seeks to reduce potentially harmful ionising radiation dose to patients and optimise the use of X-rays to produce diagnostic radiographs during root canal treatment.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Evidence-based practice among a group of Malaysian dental practitioners

Yusof ZY, Han LJ, San PP, Ramli AS

J Dent Educ, 2008 Nov;72(11):1333-42.
PMID: 18981212

The objective of this study was to assess dentists' knowledge and use of evidence-based practice (EBP), including their attitudes toward and perceptions of barriers that limit the use of EBP. A cross-sectional survey was used with self-administered questionnaires involving dental practitioners in the state of Selangor, Malaysia. One hundred ninety-three replies were returned, for a response rate of 50.3 percent. More than two-thirds (135/193, 69.9 percent) of the respondents had heard of EBP. Out of the 135 respondents who had heard of EBP, a majority agreed it was a decision-making process based on evidence (127/135, 94.2 percent) and involved a series of steps from formulating the research question, locating and assessing the evidence, to applying it if suitable (129/135, 95.6 percent). Out of the 135 respondents who had heard of EBP, a high percentage agreed that EBP improved their knowledge and skills (132/135, 97.8 percent) and treatment quality (132/135, 97.8 percent). For advice, a majority of the 135 respondents frequently consulted friends and colleagues (123/135, 91.1 percent), made referrals (120/135, 88.9 percent), consulted textbooks (112/135, 83.0 percent), and referred to electronic databases (90/135, 66.7 percent). Out of the 135 respondents, many perceived EBP as very important (59/135, 43.7 percent) and important (58/135, 43.0 percent) and were interested to learn further information about EBP (132/135, 97.8 percent). The main reported barriers were lack of time (87/135, 64.4 percent), financial constraints (54/135, 40.0 percent), and lack of knowledge (38/135, 28.1 percent). A majority of the 135 respondents had knowledge of and positive attitudes towards EBP. However, due to barriers, a majority of them preferred colleagues, textbooks, and referrals for advice instead of seeking evidence from electronic databases.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists*
Idiopathic osteosclerosis mimicry of a tooth: case report

Yusof M, Dasor MM, Ariffin F, Reduwan NH, Kamil W, Mah MC

Aust Dent J, 2020 Dec;65(4):308-312.
PMID: 32259287 DOI: 10.1111/adj.12756

This report presents two cases of idiopathic osteosclerosis involving the maxilla and mandible which were identified as a buccally impacted canine and a retained root, respectively, on clinical and plain radiographical examinations. Both patients were females who presented with hypodontia. Radiographic evaluation revealed solitary well-defined radiopaque masses with thickened cortical border. Both patients were undergoing orthodontic treatment and one was planned for a surgical traction of unerupted tooth prior to cone-beam CT assessment. In this report, we reviewed the clinical findings and explained the radiographic appearance of idiopathic osteosclerosis through plain radiographs and cone-beam CT to facilitate its identification among general dentists and oral and maxillofacial radiologists.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Fulltext Dental patient knowledge about the effects of smoking and attitudes about the role of dentists in smoking cessation

Yahya NA, Saub R, Nor MM, Yusoff N

Southeast Asian J. Trop. Med. Public Health, 2017 Mar;48(2):473-84.
PMID: 29642311

Dentists can offer their patients who smoke tobacco assistance with smoking cessation. We conducted this study to assess dental patient knowledge about the effects of smoking and perceptions and attitudes regarding the role of dentists in smoking cessation counselling. We conducted this study to inform tobacco cessation programs that could potentially include dentists. We conducted a cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire among 375 patients. The mean age of subjects was 33.4 years; females comprised 51.5%. Participants were divided into 3 groups: those who never smoked (n = 263, 70.7%), smokers (n = 92, 24.7%), and ex-smokers (n = 17, 4.5%). Significantly more participants (p = 0.046) who never smoked (92.9%) knew smoking can cause bad breath than smokers(86.9%). Significantly more participants (p = 0.002) who never smoked (74.8%) knew smoking can cause periodontal disease than smokers (57.6%). Significantly
more participants (p < 0.001) who never smoked (84.5%) knew smoking can cause
oral cancer than smokers (66.7%). Significantly more participants (p < 0.001) who never smoked (86.7%) knew smoking can cause lung cancer than smokers (69.7%). Significantly more participants who never smoked (85.5%) felt dentists should be interested in the smoking status of their patients (p = 0.004) than smokers (72.6%). Significantly more participants (p = 0.08) who never smoked (69.6%) stated dentists should give smoking cessation advice than smokers/ex-smokers (59.0%). Smoker/ex-smokers had less knowledge about the effects of smoking on oral and general health than non-smokers. Both smokers/ex-smokers and non-smokers felt dentists should provide smoking cessation advice.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists/psychology*
Awareness and acceptance of the hepatitis B vaccine by dental practitioners in Malaysia

Yaacob HB, Samaranayake LP

J Oral Pathol Med, 1989 Apr;18(4):236-9.
PMID: 2769596

A postal survey of 730 Malaysian dental practitioners was undertaken to assess their awareness and acceptance of the plasma derived hepatitis B vaccine. Only 32% of the 325 practitioners who responded had been vaccinated, 41% intended to be and 15% categorically refused vaccination. The main reservations about vaccine acceptance were fear of side effects including AIDS, cost of the vaccine and lack of information. Vaccine efficacy was not confirmed by serology in two-thirds of the vaccinees and two-fifths of the respondents were unaware that 5% of the vaccinees do not develop a successful antibody response after vaccination. Seventy-eight percent of dentists believed that their risk of contracting hepatitis B was high or very high while 71% recalled having received needle stick injuries in the 3 yr prior to the survey. Only 13% of respondents were aware of delta hepatitis while 63% were aware of non-A non-B hepatitis. The survey has highlighted the need for dissemination of information on hepatitis B vaccine among dentists in Malayasia.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists/psychology
Knowledge and awareness regarding occupational needle stick and sharp injuries among dental personnel in Malaysia

Xin KY, Eusufzai SZ, Jamayet NB, Alam MK

Work, 2020;67(1):165-171.
PMID: 32955481 DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203262

BACKGROUND: Accidental occupational injuries increase the risk of communicable diseases like hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among dental personnel. Such occupational injuries affect healthcare quality by enhancing dissatisfaction and lack of motivation to work among dental personnel.
OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to assess knowledge and awareness regarding needle stick and sharp injury among dental personnel and compared the knowledge and awareness level about needle stick injuries between dental professionals and dental supporting staff working at the School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia.
METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2016 to March 2017. The total sample included 112 registered dental personnel including dental professionals (lecturers, dental officers, and postgraduate students) and dental supportive staff (including staff nurses and dental surgery assistant) who were selected from the School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia at Kelantan District of Malaysia. Data were collected by a structured questionnaire.
RESULTS: In our study 60.7% respondents answered correctly for all the statements regarding knowledge and 51.8% of the respondents answered correctly for the statements regarding awareness on needle stick and sharp injury. No significant difference of knowledge level has been observed between the dental professionals and dental supportive staff (p

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists*
Fulltext Dental knowledge and self-reported oral care practices among medical, pharmacy and nursing students

Tuti Ningseh Mohd-Dom, Shahida Mohd Said, Zamirah Zainal Abidin

Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2009;7(1):13-23.
MyJurnal

A self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted to investigate the level of dental knowledge among senior medical, pharmacy and nursing students of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and to determine self-reported practices of oral care. Students were invited to complete a set of questionnaires on knowledge related to causes, prevention, signs and treatment of dental caries and periodontal disease; and practices related to oral hygiene and dental visits. A total of 206 questionnaire forms were distributed. 204 forms were returned complete (response rate = 99%). Dental knowledge scores ranged from 0 (no correct answer given) to 16 (gave all correct answers). The mean knowledge scores between the groups were statistically different (p < 0.05): pharmacy students scored highest (mean = 12.29, 95% CI 11.44, 13.14) followed by the medical students (mean = 12.02, 95% CI 11.33, 12.71) and nursing students (mean = 10.83, 95% CI 10.40, 11.26). Areas that had lowest knowledge scores were signs and treatment of gum disease. With regard to oral care practices, majority cited that they brushed teeth at least twice a day (94.6%) and used toothbrush and toothpaste (97.5%). Not many (21.8%) used dental floss and about half (54.2%) reported visiting the dentist more than twelve months ago. Reasons for dental visits included getting check-ups (64.6%), restorations (45.6%) and emergency care such as extractions (24.0%). In general students had at least a moderate level of dental knowledge but demonstrated poor knowledge in some areas. While most reported good oral hygiene habits, behaviour related to dental visits need to be improved. Findings suggest a need for inclusion of oral health education in the medical, pharmacy and nursing curriculum.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Fulltext Racial variations in tooth pain and care-seeking in adolescents in Malaysia

Tay K, Beh CLJ, Babar MG, Kweh TJ, Priya E, Pau A

BDJ Open, 2021 Jan 19;7(1):2.
PMID: 33469006 DOI: 10.1038/s41405-021-00058-5

OBJECTIVE: Tooth pain among adolescents is a common event that impacts substantially on quality of life. The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of race in the tooth pain experience and associated care-seeking.
DESIGN: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted on 14-18 years from four different public schools in Kuala Lumpur. Socio-demographic, pain symptoms, and social impacts data were collected as well as medication use and visiting a dentist for tooth pain.
RESULTS: Of 1473 questionnaires distributed, 1452 (98.6%) completed questionnaires were returned, with 269 (18.5%) reported having experienced tooth pain in the past 1 month. Those who identified as Indian (26.1%) were more likely to report tooth pain compared to Chinese (16.5%) and Malay (20.9%). In regression analysis, no factors were identified as independently associated with medication use, but Chinese and Indians compared to Malays, and those expressing difficulty sleeping were more likely to report visiting a dentist for treatment.
CONCLUSION: Racial variations in the tooth pain experience and care-seeking have been identified. This may be related to socio-economic status, but further research is needed on the role of culture-related care-seeking and accessibility of dental services.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Clinical pathways in primary dental care in Malaysia: clinicians' knowledge, perceptions and barriers faced

Tay HL, Raja Latifah RJ, Razak IA

Asia Pac J Public Health, 2006;18(2):33-41.
PMID: 16883968 DOI: 10.1177/10105395060180020601

The Oral Health Division, Ministry of Health in Malaysia piloted clinical pathways (cpath) in primary care in early 2003. This study investigated the knowledge, perception of cpaths and barriers faced by the clinicians involved in the pilot project. Self-administered questionnaires were sent to the clinicians (n=191). Dentists (67.9%) and dental nurses (70.6%) had good overall knowledge of cpaths. The majority of the clinicians (67.9% to 95.6%) perceived cpath positively in all areas. Only 9.2% of dentists encountered difficulties in using cpath forms compared to 28.4% of dental nurses. A higher proportion of dental nurses (73.5%) compared to dentists (64.8%) were willing to continue using cpath. The majority of dentists (76.7%) and dental nurses (73.1%) were willing to participate in future development of cpaths. Overall, there was evidence of managerial support for the pilot project. A follow-up of the pilot project was somewhat lacking as less than half (43.3%) of the clinicians reported that the state coordinator obtained feedback from them. The findings auger well for the future implementation of cpath should the Oral Health Division decide to adopt cpath routinely in the public oral health care service.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists/standards
The effects of physical and psychosocial factors and ergonomic conditions on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among dentists in Malaysia

Taib MFM, Bahn S, Yun MH, Taib MSM

Work, 2017;57(2):297-308.
PMID: 28582951 DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172559

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) have been recognized as one of the main occupational health problems for dentists. Many studies have suggested that dentists experience work-related pain or discomfort in the neck, shoulder, and back, as well as in other parts of the body.
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the relationship between specific physical and psychosocial factors and/or ergonomic conditions on MSD symptoms among dentists in Malaysia.
METHODS: A group of 85 dentists was asked to complete a questionnaire to determine whether their complaints were related to physical and psychosocial factors and/or ergonomic conditions in their practices.
RESULTS: Among the nine reviewed body areas, the shoulders were most often affected by symptoms of MSDs (92.7%). Moreover, MSDs of the neck and upper back were most likely to prevent these practitioners from engaging in normal activities (32.9%). In general, no significant differences were found in the prevalence of MSD symptoms in relation to gender, age, body mass index, years in practice, number of patients, and frequency of breaks.
CONCLUSIONS: Our results were consistent with those reported in other studies that focused on MSD problems among dentists in other countries. To reduce the prevalence of MSDs, more attention should be paid to instituting ergonomically sensible approaches in the dental practice setting.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists*
Pattern of caries and gingivitis in a selected population of school children aged 9 to 11 years

Syarida Hasnur Safii, Lily Azura Shoaib, Halimah Awang

Sains Malaysiana, 2013;42:107-114.

The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of caries and gingivitis in a selected population of schoolchildren and to examine the relationship between prevalence of the diseases with their oral health behaviours. A total of 39 subjects, aged nine to 11 years, from 147 schoolchildren of a private school in Selangor, Malaysia were examined by two calibrated examiners trained in their own field. The subjects were interviewed using structured questionnaires. Erupted first permanent molars and permanent anterior teeth were examined. Dental caries, Plaque Score and Gingival Index were recorded. Descriptive statistics using frequency distribution were used to analyse the data. Forty-one percent of the subjects presented with more than 75% of total plaque accumulation. Prevalence of caries and gingivitis for the subject population was 18.0% and 31.0%, respectively. Caries was found on both the smooth (buccal/lingual/palatal) and occlusal surfaces. Gingivitis, diagnosed around 31.6% of teeth, was found more on the incisors (16.9%) than molars (14.7%). A relatively higher distribution of gingivitis was found on labial aspect of the incisors (5.5%) and palatal/ lingual aspect of the molars (4.7%). The prevalence of caries and gingivitis in this selected population was low. Certain dentition sites were more susceptible to dental caries and gingivitis. Good tooth brushinghabits and regular visits to the dentists do not guarantee the efficacy of plaque removal.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Fulltext Profile of patients referred to a specialist oral medicine and oral pathology unit

Suraya Hani Mohd Sinon, Nur Syazwani Che Husin, NurulJannah Yusof

Int J Public Health Res, 2013;3(2):325-333.
MyJurnal

The aim of this study was to determine the profile of patients referred to a specialist oral medicine and oral pathology unit in Kuala Lumpur by reviewing clinical dental records received in Oral Pathology Diagnostic Service (OPDS) in Faculty of Dentistry, UKM from 2001 until 2010. A total of 547 archival biopsy clinical dental records were reviewed and analysed using SPSS version 17.0. Oral and maxillofacial diseases were frequently seen in female (1.3:1), young adults (30.0%) of Malay ethnicity (64.6%). Most of the acquired specimens were from dental specialists (n=451, 84.8%), particularly from oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS) (n=349, 63.8%) compared to general dental practitioners (GDPs) (n=81, 14.8%). Almost all of the biopsy specimens were of soft tissue origin (n=462, 84.4%), derived from lining mucosa (n=197, 36.0%) and were biopsied excisionally (n=325, 59.4%) more often than by incisional biopsy (n=207, 37.8%). A large proportion of the oral and maxillofacial diseases were of reactive (n=188, 34.4%) and inflammatory (n=121, 22.1%) cause. Tumours are mainly benign (n=69, 12.6%) with only small cases are malignant (n=34, 6.2%). The most common histological diagnoses were accounted by mucocele (n=56, 10.2%), pyogenic granuloma (n=47, 8.6%), fibroepithelial polyp (n=38, 6.9%), radicular cyst (n=33, 6.0%) and periapical granuloma (n=29, 5.3%). This study characterizes the clinical profile of patients seen in our oral medicine and oral pathology unit. Present findings can be used as a reference to the clinicians and pathologists in effective patient management and organization in the future.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Self-disclosure of HIV status: perception of malaysian HIV-positive subjects towards attitude of dental personnel in providing oral care

Sujak SL, Abdul-Kadir R, Omar R

Asia Pac J Public Health, 2005;17(1):15-8.
PMID: 16044826

The objective of this study was to assess the perceptions of Malaysian HIV-positive subjects towards the attitude of dental personnel in providing oral care to them. The study design was cross-sectional with the sampling frame comprising of 27 Government Drug Rehabilitation Centres throughout Malaysia. A convenience sample was then taken from 20 centres with the highest enrolment of HIV-positive subjects. A self-administered questionnaire was used to elicit information on the perception of HIV-positive subjects towards the attitude of dental personnel in providing oral care to the patient with HIV-positive. The study sample consisted of 509 HIV-positive individuals with a mean age of 31.3+/-12.9 years old. Of these, only 15.1% attended a dental clinic after confirmation of HIV-positive status. The study demonstrated that 67.5% of the HIV-positive subjects disclosed their status voluntarily to the dentists and majority of the dentists (76.9%) did not show any negative reaction on knowing their HIV positive status. There was also no difference in the attitude of auxiliary staff toward the above disclosure. In conclusion, the study showed that oral health care personnel are more receptive to the HIV-positive subjects receiving dental care and treatment.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists/psychology*
Fulltext Teledentistry as a Supportive Tool for Dentists in Pakistan

Subhan R, Ismail WA, Musharraf S, Khan M, Hafeez R, Alam MK

Biomed Res Int, 2021;2021:8757859.
PMID: 34540998 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8757859

The current scenario of the COVID-19 pandemic has forced dentists to seek different options for delivering healthcare services other than the in-person direct examination in clinical practice. Teledentistry is one of the options for remote patient care and monitoring. Objective. The present survey was conducted to assess the knowledge and perception of the dentists in Pakistan regarding teledentistry as an emergent supportive tool. Materials and Methods. A self-administered, close-ended, and prevalidated survey questionnaire was used, comprising 21 questions, and distributed electronically via e-mail, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger to evaluate the knowledge and perception of dentists regarding teledentistry. The data collected was compiled in a systematic manner and analyzed in terms of frequency (yes/no). Results. Out of a total of 350 dentists, 325 responded to the questionnaire, and it was seen that 62.5% of them did not have knowledge about teledentistry prior to COVID-19. 65.8% of dentists considered the practice of teledentistry in nonpandemic situations in the future. Conclusion. In the present study, it was observed that most of the dental professionals had inadequate knowledge about teledentistry before COVID-19, but the awareness and perception regarding teledentistry were currently satisfactory among the dental professionals in Pakistan. This emerging trend gives a positive hope for the implementation of teledentistry in the healthcare setup of Pakistan in the near future, as it will prove to be beneficial for safe dental practice during times of pandemic and even after.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists/statistics & numerical data
Occupational ergonomics and related musculoskeletal disorders among dentists: A systematic review

Soo SY, Ang WS, Chong CH, Tew IM, Yahya NA

Work, 2023;74(2):469-476.
PMID: 36278379 DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211094

BACKGROUND: There is an increasing concern about musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), resulting from occupational health hazards among dentists. Dentists who are susceptible to occupational health hazards could develop cumulative trauma disorders, lead to absenteeism from work, loss of productivity and performance or even long-term disability.
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among dentists, explore the risk factors and identify the ergonomic preventive measures for dental professionals.
METHODS: Articles published between 2008-2020 were searched in scientific databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane Library). The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Systematic Review Checklist was used to assess the quality of the studies.
RESULTS: Eighteen studies were found to be suitable in the final review. Relevant data was extracted and summarized from the included studies. The annual prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in any body site ranged between 68% and 100%. The most predominant regions for musculoskeletal disorders among dental professionals were identified to be the lower back (29% to 94.6%), shoulder (25% to 92.7%), and neck (26% to 92%). The most frequently reported risk factors of MSDs were the individual characteristic female gender (57.1%), followed by awkward working postures (50%), long working experience (50%) and being dental specialists (42.9%). Several preventive measures were identified as the most effective ways in preventing MSDs, the use of magnification (40%) and regular physical activity (40%).
CONCLUSIONS: This review reported a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) among dentists. It critically updates and adds the latest evidence on occupational ergonomics among dentists.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Fulltext Bilateral accessory central cusp of 2nd deciduous molar: an unusual occurrence

Sockalingam, S. Nagarajan M.P., Alida Mahyuddin

Archives of Orofacial Sciences, 2009;4(1):22-24.
MyJurnal

Presence of accessory cusp on the occlusal surface of a tooth may occasionally pose problems to dentists'. Although its presents may not be a cause for alarm in most instances, nevertheless it can lead to serious consequences if it is damaged. This report describes a rare finding of bilateral central accessory cusp seen on the occlusal surface of both the 2nd maxillary deciduous molars and the need for continuous dental surveillance and preventive measures have been highlighted.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Fulltext Simple Orthodontic Correction of Rotated Malpositioned Teeth Using Sectional Wire and 2 × 4 Orthodontic Appliances in Mixed-Dentition: A Report of Two Cases

Sockalingam SNMP, Zakaria ASI, Khan KAM, Azmi FM, Noor NM

Case Rep Dent, 2020;2020:6972196.
PMID: 32695527 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6972196

The correction of rotated malpositioned tooth/teeth into the dental arch alignment in the mixed-dentition is often a challenging task for paediatric dentists. Failure in addressing this issue can bring about detrimental effect to the developing dentition and increases the probability of a complex orthodontic treatment in later years. Factors such as severity of the malpositioned teeth, patient's treatment compliance, limitation in specific functions of the selected appliance, availability of bone and space may dictate the success of the treatment. The combined use of a simple sectional orthodontic wire appliance and a 2 × 4 orthodontic appliance has been shown to produce a positive effect. The appliances resulted in derotation of the rotated malpositioned teeth and bringing them into arch alignment in two cases. This treatment option had eliminated the detrimental effects to the developing dentition and helped patients to enhance their smile and dental aesthetics.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists
Work-related musculoskeletal pain and its self-reported impact among practicing dentists in Puducherry, India

Shekhawat KS, Chauhan A, Sakthidevi S, Nimbeni B, Golai S, Stephen L

Indian J Dent Res, 2020 8 10;31(3):354-357.
PMID: 32769266 DOI: 10.4103/ijdr.IJDR_352_18

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal pain (MSPs) is not uncommon among dentist and often limits their work efficiency impacting their quality of life.
Aim: The present research was conducted to identify site-specific pain resulting from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among practicing dentists and determine its impact on their quality of life.
Setting and Design: A cross-sectional questionnaire study conducted among practicing dentists of Puducherry Taluk, Puducherry, India.
Method and Materials: A closed-ended, self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 95 practicing dentists to identify site-specific MSP from the study subjects. Data on pain due to MSDs, frequency of pain, its impact on quality of life, relieving factors, patients attended per day, working hours per day, and awareness on ergonomics were also recorded.
Statistical Analyses: The data were analyzed for descriptive statistics, and Chi-square tests was used for proportions.
Results: Almost all respondents experienced pain due to MSDs. Approximately, 11.1% "always" experienced elbow pain; 5.6% "always" experienced pain in neck and back. Approximately, 83% "sometimes" experienced pain in the back. Pain in elbow was significantly associated with gender (P = 0.036), qualification (P = 0.029), and years of practice (P = 0.032). Approximately, 36% reported having an impact on their life.
Conclusion: The magnitude of the problem is slowly shifting from "sometimes" to "always." Although small in proportion, pain due to MSDs has an impact on dental practitioners' quality of life, and elbow pain was reportedly higher in the study setting. Measures need to be implemented before MSD becomes a career limiting occupational hazard.

Matched MeSH terms: Dentists

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