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9 pages, 589 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Conceptual Framework for Implementation of Internationalization in Dental Education with Foundations in Dental Student Life

by Meghna Burad, Chanon Laowanichwith, Aimwadee Kiatsukasem, Sirirak Supa-amornkul and Kawin Sipiyaruk

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13249; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013249 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1861

Abstract

The integration of internationalization within higher education has gained attention in both international and local programs, which allows the enrichment of the institutional quality. Previous literature reveals multidimensional considerations to determine the level of internationalization, considered as pre-existing performance indicators, including: (1) ‘Curriculum [...] Read more.

The integration of internationalization within higher education has gained attention in both international and local programs, which allows the enrichment of the institutional quality. Previous literature reveals multidimensional considerations to determine the level of internationalization, considered as pre-existing performance indicators, including: (1) ‘Curriculum and academic offerings’; (2) ‘Collaboration and partnership’; (3) ‘Student and academic staff mobility’; (4) ‘Institutional policy’; (5) ‘Resources’; (6) ‘Campus life’; and (7) ‘Performance review and accountability’. This study aimed to investigate the impact of performance indicators of internationalization on academic performance and extracurricular activities among dental students. A validated online self-administered questionnaire was distributed to dental undergraduates. The data from 93 students (response rate: 96.86%) were analyzed using descriptive statistics and simple linear regressions. The findings demonstrated that all performance indicators appeared to have significant impact on self-perceived participations of extracurricular activities (p < 0.05), while only ‘Collaboration and partnership’ (p = 0.016), ‘Student and academic staff mobility’ (p = 0.009), ‘Institutional policy’ (p = 0.008), and ‘Campus life’ (p = 0.005) significantly affected actual participations. None of them appeared to be significant predictors for actual and self-perceived academic performance (p > 0.05). The statistical model constructed in this research can be utilized as a conceptual framework in the future establishment of internationalization among dental schools. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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10 pages, 2605 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Shade Matching Ability among Dental Students under Different Lighting Conditions: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Rizwan Jouhar

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 11892; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191911892 - 20 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2070

Abstract

Successful esthetic dentistry to meet patient satisfaction and produce a progressive impact on someone’s personality cannot be succeeded without proper shade selection, both for direct or indirect restoration of dentition. The accurate shade selection is one of the most interesting phases of restoring [...] Read more.

Successful esthetic dentistry to meet patient satisfaction and produce a progressive impact on someone’s personality cannot be succeeded without proper shade selection, both for direct or indirect restoration of dentition. The accurate shade selection is one of the most interesting phases of restoring the natural look of teeth. In clinical practices, dental students should be aware of the various light sources used for shade selection. The purpose of this research is to compare the shade matching ability of clinical and non-clinical students under clinical and correcting light. This comparative cross-sectional study was instigated amongst clinical and non-clinical students of the dental complex of King Faisal University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, after obtaining ethical approval from the Research Ethics Committee with reference number (KFU-REC-2022-MAR-EA000518). A total of 102 students assessed the shade under clinical (fluorescent light) and correcting light (handheld Dental Base Light) by using VITA Classical shade guides. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 23 (Armonk, NY, USA). The Chi-square test and t-test were used to evaluate the association between shade matching scores under correcting and clinical light. Out of 102 students, 41 (40.2%) were non-clinical and 61 (59.8%) were clinical, with a mean age of 21.66 ± 1.397 years. Shade matching scores were found significantly higher (p < 0.001) with the light-correcting device (2.29 ± 1.26) as compared to clinical light (1 ± 1.11) for non-clinical students. Similarly, clinical students also had significantly better (p < 0.001) shade matching with the light-correcting device (4.01 ± 1.34) in comparison to clinical light (2.47 ± 1.25). This study concluded that the shade matching scores under correcting light was significantly better than the results obtained by dental operatory light. Furthermore, it was also evidenced that clinical students’ skills in matching shades were significantly improved under a correcting light source as compared to non-clinical students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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13 pages, 368 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quality of Life and Satisfaction from Career and Work–Life Integration of Greek Dentists before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Maria Antoniadou

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 9865; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19169865 - 10 Aug 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2434

Abstract

Quality of life (QoL) of dental professionals is a basic parameter of the quality of dental services (QS), a fact well-documented before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in different countries. This study is a comprehensive, cross-sectional survey aimed to explore possible differences in [...] Read more.

Quality of life (QoL) of dental professionals is a basic parameter of the quality of dental services (QS), a fact well-documented before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in different countries. This study is a comprehensive, cross-sectional survey aimed to explore possible differences in satisfaction from career and work-life integration, as well as QoL in a sample of Greek dentists during the second lockdown in March 2021. Methods: 804 dentists from the vast metropolitan area of Athens and Piraeus selectively responded by completing a self-reported questionnaire based on: the Copenhagen Questionnaire (CQ) for assessing work stress; the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Service Survey (MBI-HSS) for evaluating personal accomplishment; and the Quality-of-Life work scale (ProQOL-CSF). Data were analyzed using the independent t-test, ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple linear regression. Results: QoL and career satisfaction were significantly diminished during the pandemic. Career satisfaction despite the pandemic was overall influenced in tandem by age (b = 0.427, p = 0.001), marital status (b = 0.276, p = 0.021), and inversely by years of practice (b = −0.330, p = 0.007) and income (b = −0.221, p = 0.015). Satisfaction from the work–life integration was influenced before the pandemic by marital status (b = 0.255 p = 0.013), years of practice (b = −0.371, p = 0.0001), while gender, years of practice, age, higher education, and income played a significant role during the pandemic. QoL was impacted before pandemic by age (b = −1.007, p = 0.001), number of children (b = −1.704, p = 0.018), and higher degree (b = −1.143, p = 0.001), while during the pandemic by gender (b = −0.582, p = 0.002), number of children (b = 0.469, p = 0.037), higher degree (b = 0.279, p = 0.009), and years of practice (b = −0.523, p = 0.0001). Males were more prone to low QoL, and dissatisfaction with career and work–life integration, during the pandemic. Income is a predictor of career satisfaction despite the pandemic. Personal resources through deep human relationships, higher education, beliefs, and values can offer a resilience shield against professional difficulties in periods of unexpected stressful events. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

14 pages, 2770 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using a Virtual Patient via an Artificial Intelligence Chatbot to Develop Dental Students’ Diagnostic Skills

by Ana Suárez, Alberto Adanero, Víctor Díaz-Flores García, Yolanda Freire and Juan Algar

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(14), 8735; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148735 - 18 Jul 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3996

Abstract

Knowing how to diagnose effectively and efficiently is a fundamental skill that a good dental professional should acquire. If students perform a greater number of clinical cases, they will improve their performance with patients. In this sense, virtual patients with artificial intelligence offer [...] Read more.

Knowing how to diagnose effectively and efficiently is a fundamental skill that a good dental professional should acquire. If students perform a greater number of clinical cases, they will improve their performance with patients. In this sense, virtual patients with artificial intelligence offer a controlled, stimulating, and safe environment for students. To assess student satisfaction after interaction with an artificially intelligent chatbot that recreates a virtual patient, a descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in which a virtual patient was created with artificial intelligence in the form of a chatbot and presented to fourth and fifth year dental students. After several weeks interacting with the AI, they were given a survey to find out their assessment. A total of 193 students participated. A large majority of the students were satisfied with the interaction (mean 4.36), the fifth year students rated the interaction better and showed higher satisfaction values. The students who reached a correct diagnosis rated this technology more positively. Our research suggests that the incorporation of this technology in dental curricula would be positively valued by students and would also ensure their training and adaptation to new technological developments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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19 pages, 351 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Current Endodontic Practices among General Dental Practitioners in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

by Rizwan Jouhar, Muhammad Adeel Ahmed, Hussain Abdulmuttalib Ali Almomen, Abdullah Amin Jawad BuHulayqah, Mohammed Yousef Ahmed Alkashi, Ahmed Adel A. Al-Quraini and Naseer Ahmed

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(11), 6601; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116601 - 28 May 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2367

Abstract

A contemporary knowledge of root canal treatment (RCT) is a prerequisite for a successful outcome. Studies observed that General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) were not abreast of current endodontic knowledge due to a lack of continuing dental education, not following the treatment protocols that [...] Read more.

A contemporary knowledge of root canal treatment (RCT) is a prerequisite for a successful outcome. Studies observed that General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) were not abreast of current endodontic knowledge due to a lack of continuing dental education, not following the treatment protocols that they had learned in their undergraduate program, and overlooking the evidence-based current endodontic practices. Therefore, this study was intended to assess the awareness, attitude, and clinical endodontic practices among General Dental Practitioners in Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among all 312 GDPs working in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire consisted of socio-demographic details and 23 questions regarding current endodontic practices. The collected data was analyzed using the SPSS Version 21 (Chicago, IL, USA). The chi-square test was applied to explore the influence of gender, workplace, and the years of professional activity on the materials and techniques employed in the RCT procedure. The study results showed that of all respondents, 159 (51.0%) were males, 153 (49.0%) were females, and 286 (91.7%) were Saudi nationals. Most of the GDPs, i.e., 204 (65.4%) practiced in private hospitals or clinics whereas 108 (34.6%) practiced in Government hospitals. Root canal treatment on all teeth had been performed by 196 (62%) of the practitioners. Association of gender with demographic details and endodontic practices revealed a statistically significant difference between both genders with respect to region, nationality, type of RCT treated on the tooth, and the technique used to measure the working length (p < 0.05). Furthermore, years of professional experience and workplace significantly affect endodontic practices (p < 0.05). This study concluded that most of the general dental practitioners complied with quality standard guidelines showing a positive attitude toward endodontic practices. Furthermore, irrespective of gender, most of the steps in endodontic procedures revealed a significant association with years of professional experience and the workplace. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

17 pages, 684 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Socioeconomic Status and Analysis of the Factors Motivating Patients to Apply for Prosthetic Treatment by Students of Dentistry at the Poznań University of Medical Sciences

by Dominik Medyński, Tomasz Gredes, Mariusz Glapiński, Damian Dudek, Beniamin Oskar Grabarek, Ewa Niewiadomska, Agata Czajka-Jakubowska and Agnieszka Przystańska

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(9), 5703; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19095703 - 7 May 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1973

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the motives for undertaking prosthetic treatment at the Prosthetics Clinic of the Poznan University of Medical Sciences (PUMS), pursued by fifth- and sixth-year medicine and dentistry students. The survey consisted of 18 questions, of which 1 to 11 [...] Read more.

This study aimed to determine the motives for undertaking prosthetic treatment at the Prosthetics Clinic of the Poznan University of Medical Sciences (PUMS), pursued by fifth- and sixth-year medicine and dentistry students. The survey consisted of 18 questions, of which 1 to 11 concerned general patient data, while questions 12 to 18 concerned prosthetic treatment. The only open question in the questionnaire was one regarding the motives for the decision to receive treatment. The study group consisted of 153 patients (102 women—66.67% and 51 men—33.33%) of the Prosthetic Clinic. After collecting a total of 200 questionnaires, rejecting 47 (23.50%) due to the lack of answers to all questions (other than question 18), a total of 153 completed (76.50%) questionnaires were obtained. The main motivating factors for patients to undertake prosthetic treatment are functional and aesthetic considerations. In addition, it turned out, that the authority of the university unit is of greater importance than financial issues. Additionally, some patients undergo treatment by students because they can see positive aspects in it, both for them and for students. Hence, the evaluation of the treatment provided by students, as well as their communication skills and their attitude, are rated very highly, although, again, the evaluation was influenced by the education level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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14 pages, 2845 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Various Aspects Involved in the Study of Tooth Bleaching Procedure: A Questionnaire–Based Study

by Amalia Mazilu Moldovan, Violeta Popescu, Corina Violeta Ionescu, Stanca Cuc, Antarinia Craciun, Marioara Moldovan, Diana Dudea and Anca Stefania Mesaros

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(7), 3977; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19073977 - 27 Mar 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2785

Abstract

A beautiful smile is an important feature when it comes to a pleasant appearance of the face, and one of the most common situations that drive patients to book a dental appointment is tooth discoloration. Tooth bleaching is the treatment of choice for [...] Read more.

A beautiful smile is an important feature when it comes to a pleasant appearance of the face, and one of the most common situations that drive patients to book a dental appointment is tooth discoloration. Tooth bleaching is the treatment of choice for extrinsic tooth discoloration, as it is a cheap, fast, and minimally invasive procedure. This study aimed to provide comparative information on the perceptions of both patients and dentists regarding different whitening methods and on the factors involved in people’s willingness to recommend and use a bleaching procedure. In addition to this, this study evaluated the degree of satisfaction in relation to the bleaching methods and materials used; it also evaluated the following: negative side effects, economic characteristics and the patients’ perceptions of the aesthetic appearance of their dental arches, especially tooth color. The subjects that participated in the present study were selected based on their background and were then divided into two categories. The first group consisted of 120 patients who had received tooth-bleaching treatments in dental clinics during the study and the second group consisted of 127 dentists. A conventional sampling method was used. The study aimed to define a relationship between multiple aspects of the tooth-bleaching procedure, including the patients’ desires and their general knowledge of this procedure. Tooth color and the way it changes is a very important factor that motivates patients to come to the dentist for whitening procedures. Patients showed the highest levels of satisfaction with the results of in-office bleaching procedures. In the group consisting of dentists, satisfaction levels were higher for the procedure of home bleaching supervised by a dentist. Factors influencing the choice of bleaching materials are appreciated differently by dentists and patients. Furthermore, the rate of patients using OTC (over the counter) products was found to be high. Further research is needed to find more effective and safer alternatives to home tooth-bleaching procedures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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10 pages, 560 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating the Oral-Health-Related Quality of Life of Oral Submucous Fibrosis Patients before and after Treatment Using the OHIP-14 Tool

by Abdul Bari Memon, Aneela Atta Ur Rahman, Kashif Ali Channar, Muhammad Sohail Zafar and Naresh Kumar

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1821; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031821 - 5 Feb 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2801

Abstract

The objective of the present study was to assess the oral-health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) patients before and after standard treatment. A convenient sampling technique was used to recruit the clinically diagnosed patients of OSMF (n = 130). [...] Read more.

The objective of the present study was to assess the oral-health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) patients before and after standard treatment. A convenient sampling technique was used to recruit the clinically diagnosed patients of OSMF (n = 130). Based on the medical treatment, the patients were randomly divided into two study groups (group A and B). The group A patients received submucosal intralesional injections of dexamethasone (2 mL; 4 gm/mL), while group B patients received hyaluronidase (1500 IU). Both the group A and B patients received respective medical therapy biweekly for a period of five weeks. At the follow up visit (6 months), the impact of treatment on OHRQoL was assessed using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14). Data were analyzed by a chi-square test for quantitative variables and an independent t-test for qualitative variables. The comparison of all clinical parameters before and after treatment was performed by a paired t-test. The results after treatment showed that there was a significant improvement in all domains of OHIP-14 (p = 0.001) except psychological disability (p = 0.243). In addition, the OHRQoL of patients was significantly improved following the treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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9 pages, 487 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychometric Properties of the Hebrew Modified Dental Anxiety Scale in Adult Israeli Population

by Maayan Shacham, Lee Greenblatt-Kimron, Gerry Humphris, Menachem Ben-Ezra and Eitan Mijiritsky

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1499; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031499 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2126

Abstract

Dental anxiety results in the neglect of oral hygiene and poor oral health, requiring an accurate screening tool for dental practitioners to evaluate dental anxiety. The Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) is frequently used cross-culturally. The present study aimed to assess the reliability [...] Read more.

Dental anxiety results in the neglect of oral hygiene and poor oral health, requiring an accurate screening tool for dental practitioners to evaluate dental anxiety. The Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) is frequently used cross-culturally. The present study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of the Hebrew version of the MDSA. A total of 553 (mean age 35.87 years, SD = 13.14) Israeli participants were recruited through means of social media, mailing lists, and forums. The sample was randomly divided into two population sets. Dental anxiety was evaluated using the Hebrew version of the MDAS. The psychometric evaluation consisted of exploratory factor analysis (study 1, n = 274) and confirmatory factor analysis (study 2, n = 279). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used to assess internal consistency. Results showed high internal consistency (0.93) for the Hebrew version of the MDAS. Confirmatory factor analysis showed a single factor solution. Findings demonstrated 13.4% of Israeli participants with dental anxiety. Younger participants, females, participants with lower education, lower income, and more religious participants reported higher dental anxiety. In conclusion, the Hebrew version of the MDAS demonstrated high reliability and validity. It is recommended to use the Hebrew version of the MDAS to evaluate dental anxiety in Israeli dental settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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16 pages, 3836 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Involved in the Perception of Enamel Dyschromic Lesions—A Questionnaire-Based Study

by Cristina Gasparik, Horațiu Alexandru Colosi, Bianca Elena Varvara, Alexandru Grațian Grecu, Alexandra Iulia Aghiorghiesei, Anca Ștefania Mesaroș, Amalia Mazilu (Moldovan) and Diana Dudea

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(2), 900; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19020900 - 14 Jan 2022

Viewed by 1797

Abstract

Dyschromic lesions (DLs) of tooth enamel are common disorders, with multiple etiologies and various clinical forms, that raise public health concerns. This study aimed to determine the factors that influence the perception of DLs and to assess the perceived need for dental treatment [...] Read more.

Dyschromic lesions (DLs) of tooth enamel are common disorders, with multiple etiologies and various clinical forms, that raise public health concerns. This study aimed to determine the factors that influence the perception of DLs and to assess the perceived need for dental treatment in various clinical cases. A paper-based questionnaire with attached images of frontal teeth exhibiting different DLs was distributed to patients, dental students, and dentists. A total of 383 volunteers participated in this study, and their answers were statistically described and analyzed. This study found that in cases with multiple, well-demarcated areas of opacities associated with diffuse opacities on neighboring teeth, most respondents noticed and reported only the most severe lesions, disregarding the minor ones. The contrast of the lesion with the color of the substrate influenced the overall perception and a significant correlation between these two variables was found. However, the color of the DLs did not significantly impact the overall perception of the lesions. A higher overall perception of DLs was significantly correlated with a favorable opinion regarding the need for treatment. Furthermore, gender and medical background were significantly associated with the overall perception of DLs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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11 pages, 13176 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Patterns of Facial Profile Preference in a Large Sample of Dental Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Lívia Romsics, Angyalka Segatto, Kristóf Boa, Roland Becsei, Noémi Rózsa, László Párkányi, Ildikó Pinke, József Piffkó and Emil Segatto

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(16), 8554; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18168554 - 13 Aug 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1669

Abstract

The objective of this study was to explore dental students’ facial profile preferences in a large sample of students. Nine hundred and nineteen dental students of four dental schools were involved. As part of a larger study on dentofacial esthetics, six photo series [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to explore dental students’ facial profile preferences in a large sample of students. Nine hundred and nineteen dental students of four dental schools were involved. As part of a larger study on dentofacial esthetics, six photo series consisting of one unaltered and four altered variants of the same female profile were distributed among the students. The altered features were ones that are esthetically significant according to the literature. The students had to indicate the photo in each series that they preferred. The data were analyzed in a regression model in which preference in the given photo series was the dependent variable and gender, grade of studies, and dental school were the factors. Eight hundred and sixty-one students (93.7%) responded. Gender and dental school were not associated with the observed preferences, but the grade of studies was associated for three of the modified parameters: chin prominence, the sagittal position of the maxillary dental arch, and the simultaneous modification of the prominence of the chin and the nose. This study has confirmed several earlier observations, and new observations have also been made. We have demonstrated that the anteroposterior position of the maxillary incisors may be an important determinant of profile esthetics, even if this position does not influence the situation of the soft tissues and if the forehead cannot be used as a reference. We have also shown that the harmony between the nose and the chin overrides the importance of their individual dimensions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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11 pages, 758 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Malocclusion, Tooth Loss and Oral Hygiene Habits on Quality of Life in Orthodontic Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Dinis Pereira, Vanessa Machado, João Botelho, Luís Proença, João Rua, Carolina Lemos, José João Mendes and Ana Sintra Delgado

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(13), 7145; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18137145 - 3 Jul 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3315

Abstract

We aimed to assess the impact of malocclusion on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in a sample composed of adolescents, younger adults and adults seeking orthodontic treatment. Participants were consecutively enrolled from January 2019 to March 2020. The oral health impact profile [...] Read more.

We aimed to assess the impact of malocclusion on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in a sample composed of adolescents, younger adults and adults seeking orthodontic treatment. Participants were consecutively enrolled from January 2019 to March 2020. The oral health impact profile (OHIP-14) was used to measure the OHRQoL. The index of complexity, outcome and need (ICON) was used to assess malocclusion. Sociodemographic, medical, and clinical questionnaires were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed according as a function of sex and age range (15–30 or >30 years old). Linear and logistic regression models were applied to assess the association between OHIP-14 total score, malocclusion, and other relevant confounding variables. In a final sample of 93 participants (60 females and 33 males, aged 15 to 60 years), men reported significantly better OHRQoL (p = 0.005). Participants aged 30 years or older reported significantly worse OHRQoL (p = 0.042). OHIP-14 was significantly correlated with age (ρ = 0.259, p < 0.05) and the number of missing teeth (ρ = 0.369, p < 0.001). Multivariable regression showed OHIP-14 being associated with the number of missing teeth (B = 1.48, SE = 0.57, p < 0.05) and the presence of missing teeth (B = 1.38, SE = 0.65, p < 0.05). Malocclusion showed no association with OHRQoL. Age and the number of missing teeth may be key factors on self-perceived OHRQoL in adult patients seeking orthodontic treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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16 pages, 384 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge and Associated Factors about Rare Diseases among Dentists in Israel: A Cross Sectional Survey

by Eitan Mijiritsky, Michal Dekel-Steinkeller, Oren Peleg, Shlomi Kleinman, Clariel Ianculovici, Amir Shuster, Shimrit Arbel, Menachem Ben-Ezra and Maayan Shacham

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(13), 6830; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18136830 - 25 Jun 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2547

Abstract

Aim: The current study aims to assess levels of knowledge among Israeli dentists about rare diseases with orofacial manifestations, and whether occupational, regional and social factors influence those levels. Materials and Methods: A total of 309 Israeli dentists participated in an online survey [...] Read more.

Aim: The current study aims to assess levels of knowledge among Israeli dentists about rare diseases with orofacial manifestations, and whether occupational, regional and social factors influence those levels. Materials and Methods: A total of 309 Israeli dentists participated in an online survey that provided basic demographic information pertaining to their knowledge about rare diseases, their clinical experience with rare diseases, what further information they considered necessary, and which sources of information they most frequently utilize. Results: Young age, country of dental education, practicing in both public and private settings, as well as the number of hours allocated to dental studies and the opportunity to acquire information on rare diseases with orofacial manifestations, all seem to affect the level of knowledge. Conclusions: Developments in the field of rare disease are constantly ongoing, and improvements in post-graduate dental studies about them should keep pace. The results of the current study reveal the areas upon which such curricula should focus with respect to dental practitioners. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

13 pages, 873 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Affecting Masticatory Satisfaction in Patients with Removable Partial Dentures

by Tasuku Yoshimoto, Yoko Hasegawa, Simonne Salazar, Satsuki Kikuchi, Kazuhiro Hori and Takahiro Ono

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6620; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126620 - 20 Jun 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4095

Abstract

(1) Background: The degree of satisfaction with dental treatment varies among patients, and the discrepancy may exist between the patient’s subjective evaluation and the objective assessment. Further, the optimal methods for increasing patient satisfaction with mastication remain unclear. This study aimed to identify [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The degree of satisfaction with dental treatment varies among patients, and the discrepancy may exist between the patient’s subjective evaluation and the objective assessment. Further, the optimal methods for increasing patient satisfaction with mastication remain unclear. This study aimed to identify factors affecting masticatory satisfaction in patients with removable partial dentures. (2) Methods: A total of 132 participants (71.0 ± 9.0 years) were included. Masticatory satisfaction was assessed on a visual analog scale. An oral health survey was conducted to assess the number of functional teeth, missing tooth classification: Kennedy classification, occlusal support: Eichner classification, and removable partial dentures wearing jaw. Objective masticatory performance was assessed using gummy jelly, while subjective masticatory ability was assessed using food acceptance status and oral health-related quality of life. The associations of these factors with masticatory satisfaction were assessed. (3) Results: Masticatory satisfaction among removable partial denture wearers was not significantly associated with gender, age, denture wearing jaw, Kennedy classification, and occlusal support. The degree of masticatory satisfaction was significantly greater with higher levels of masticatory function: masticatory performance, food acceptance score, and OHIP-14 score. The OHIP-14 score was the only significant explanatory variable for masticatory satisfaction in the multiple regression analysis; the strongest associations were with the “psychological discomfort” and “physical disability” subscales (p = 0.02 and p = 0.005, respectively). (4) Conclusions: Masticatory satisfaction among removable partial denture wearers was strongly associated with oral health-related quality of life, in which the ability to eat meals comfortably with removable partial dentures is the most important determinant of masticatory satisfaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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11 pages, 1803 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kobra Surgery Simulator—A Possibility to Improve Digital Teaching? A Case-Control Study

by Mayte Buchbender, Mathias Maser, Friedrich W. Neukam, Marco R. Kesting, Sameh Attia and Christian M. Schmitt

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 1827; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041827 - 13 Feb 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3214

Abstract

Computer-aided simulations have long been of great importance in university teaching; however, to date, there is limited use of such simulations in the dental surgical sector. For this purpose, an oral surgery simulator, “Kobra”, was implemented in student training and was evaluated for [...] Read more.

Computer-aided simulations have long been of great importance in university teaching; however, to date, there is limited use of such simulations in the dental surgical sector. For this purpose, an oral surgery simulator, “Kobra”, was implemented in student training and was evaluated for dental education. Dental students (group 1, third-year and group 2, fourth-year) and dentists of the faculty (control group) were trained to use the simulator. The outcomes for group 1 (apicoectomy of an upper lateral incisor with Kobra), group 2 (removal of an impacted lower wisdom tooth with Kobra) and the control group (both procedures with Kobra) were evaluated. For evaluation purposes, subjective parameters (improvement of practical skills, comparison between conventional training and Kobra simulation, and implementation of simulation-based teaching) and objective parameters (removal of bone, tooth substance and soft tissue measured while performing the Kobra simulation) were assessed using questionnaires with a scale ranging from 1–5. A total of 49 students (third-year n = 29, with 22 women and 7 men; fourth-year n = 20, with 17 women and 3 men) and 10 dentists (women n = 5 and men n = 5) participated. Compared to the Kobra simulation, the conventional training method with plastic models was still favored (the difference was non-significant). Compared to the dentists, the simulation data showed a less precise surgical performance of the students (the difference was not significant). The Kobra simulation may offer an additional method to conventional surgery training using plastic models, with benefits for students and faculty staff. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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3D-Printed Teeth in Endodontics: Why, How, Problems and Future—A Narrative Review

by Tiago Reis, Cláudia Barbosa, Margarida Franco, Catarina Baptista, Nuno Alves, Pablo Castelo-Baz, José Martin-Cruces and Benjamín Martin-Biedma

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(13), 7966; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19137966 - 29 Jun 2022

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3378

Abstract

Three-dimensional printing offers possibilities for the development of new models in endodontics. Numerous studies have used 3D-printed teeth; however, protocols for the standardization of studies still need to be developed. Another problem with 3D-printed teeth is the different areas of literature requested to [...] Read more.

Three-dimensional printing offers possibilities for the development of new models in endodontics. Numerous studies have used 3D-printed teeth; however, protocols for the standardization of studies still need to be developed. Another problem with 3D-printed teeth is the different areas of literature requested to understand the processes. This review aims to gather evidence about 3D-printed teeth on the following aspects: (1) why they are advantageous; (2) how they are manufactured; (3) problems they present; and (4) future research topics. Natural teeth are still the standard practice in ex vivo studies and pre-clinical courses, but they have several drawbacks. Printed teeth may overcome all limitations of natural teeth. Printing technology relies on 3D data and post-processing tools to form a 3D model, ultimately generating a prototype using 3D printers. The major concerns with 3D-printed teeth are the resin hardness and printing accuracy of the canal anatomy. Guidance is presented for future studies to solve the problems of 3D-printed teeth and develop well-established protocols, for the standardization of methods to be achieved. In the future, 3D-printed teeth have the possibility to become the gold standard in ex vivo studies and endodontic training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life, Needs and Demands of Dentists, Students and Patients in the New Era of Modern Dentistry)

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