1. Examining the association between untreated caries in children and parent fluoride treatment refusal
This case-control study, carried out in a university dental clinic during 2016 to 2020, involved a sample size of 356 children of about 18 years and younger with untreated caries in half of the sample and none in the remaining of the sample. Researchers examined the effect of a history of unattended decay and parents refusing to have topical fluoride treatment. They discovered that parents whose children had untreated caries were considerably less adamant to reject fluoride; the adjusted prevalence ratio, in fact, amounted to 0.79 (95% CI: 0.64-0.98; P =.03), representing a reduction in the proportions of refusal by almost 21% relative to parents of children who did not have untreated caries The evidence indicates that when parents witness the untreated carious lesion in their child they are more likely to accept the prevention measures, and dental professionals should perform caries risk assessment and discussion prior to prescribing topical fluoride.
Clinically, the incorporation of caries-risk assessment on the discussion with patients could minimize fluoride refusal tendencies. Although the observational nature of this study does not establish causation, it highlights a powerful relationship that would inform the future formulation of public policy on the matter. The authors also suggest the conduction of subsequent longitudinal and qualitative studies to confirm why certain parents do not show proactive behavior and how to effectively eliminate these doubts in the minds of clinicians.
The study represents that the untreated decay that is visible on the children increases the chances of securing parental consent to such treatment with fluoride. The importance of caries status of a child and fluoride advantages can be discussed, which will also raise acceptance.
2. Bruxism: Your teeth under pressure
The article describes the condition of bruxism as an involuntary behavior that involves continuously grinding of the teeth or clenching them to each other which is usually experienced at night and causes excessive pressure on them and other oral structures. It makes a distinction between two kinds such as sleep bruxism, which is usually related to night-time grinding and daily facial pains in the morning, and awake bruxism, which is normally related to stress and anxiety during waking hours. Other causes are emotional stress, malocclusions, some medications and even the inheritance. Bruxism is asymptomatic during the onset period; however, a persistent problem can cause worn out teeth, fractured teeth, sensitivity, jaw pain, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Clinical diagnosis is mainly done on the basis of history and examination that indicates worn enamel, tenderness of the muscles, and also noises at joints. Management will be personalized depending on the case and could include occlusal splints, behavioural therapy, stress reduction interventions and in some instances botulinum toxin to relax over contracted muscles. Treatment Over the counter Drug therapy is usually limited because it cannot be supported by consistent evidence. To sum it up, bruxism is rather a usual but parafunctional habit which may lead to serious dental and musculoskeletal problems in the long perspective. The central point is that identifying the issues early and a multimodal management plan that involves using protective appliances, psychological support, and necessary clinical treatments help to avoid the long-term consequences and enhance the quality of life of patients.
