Sherin Ann Thomas

Abstract

Background: To avoid unwanted complications during the extraction of impacted mandibular teeth pre-operative investigations are required to plan the best protocol for the situation. Although 3D imaging modalities provide clear picture, because of their reduced accessibility and high cost panoramic radiography is more preferred for planning third molar extraction. Aim: To assess and associate the pattern of mandibular third molar impactions with the associated radiological risk predictors in relation to age and sex using Orthopantomogram in a Tertiary Dental Care Centre in Kerala. Methodology: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study using the digital panoramic radiographic records of subjects with impacted mandibular third molar. Data collected will be analysed using Descriptive statistics and Chi square test. Associations and differences will be considered significant when the p value less than 0.05. Out of the 710 mandibular third molar impactions, 368 (51.8%) belong to females and 342 (48.2%) belong to males. The highest frequency of impactions (73.2%) belonged to the 20-24-year age group. The predominant pattern of impaction was mesioangular impactions. Among the radiological risk predictors darkening of root was having the highest frequency (40%); followed by interruption of white line of canal, (34.9%). The radiological signs when correlated with pattern of impaction, shows statistically significant results associated with darkening of root and deflection of root. There was statistically significant results when radiological signs were correlated with sex, in the case of narrowing of root even though darkening of the root accounted for the most common radiological risk predictor in both sexes. Mesioangular impactions are the most common impaction in our study population. The largest number of impactions belonged to the 20-24 age group. The most frequent radiological risk predictor as per the study is darkening of the root.   Keywords: Panoramic radiographs, Inferior alveolar canal, Impacted mandibular third molars, Radiologic risk predictors.

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Abstract

Introduction: Corona virus disease officially called as COVID-19, declared a “pandemic” by the World Health Organization; became a major public health problem causing worldwide morbidity and mortality, despite various control measures. Extraordinary measures are taken universally to fight the spread of the ongoing outbreak. In such a scenario, people’s adherence to preventive measures is largely influenced by their knowledge and perception of the disease. Since dental care professionals are having high chances of infectivity, which in turn has serious implications, it is essential that the auxiliary dental staff must be educated, empowered and provided appropriate and relevant knowledge of the disease. Objectives: To assess the level of awareness regarding COVID-19 among auxiliary dental staff in a Tertiary Dental Care Centre in Kerala. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted among all the auxillary staff in a tertiary dental care centre by an online questionnaire through google forms. Details regarding demographic data, knowledge about the spread, symptoms, diagnosis, prevention and safety practices related to COVID-19 were obtained after getting an online informed consent. Descriptive statistics and Chi square test were done. Associations and differences were considered significant when the p value was less than 0.05. Results: The initial sample size was 50. Forty two participants completed the study. Out of the participants 36% (n=15) were below 40 years and were males. About 40.5% (n=17) had experience less than 5 years. Around 69% (n=23) of the participants had good knowledge regarding COVID 19. Statistically significant results were seen with mode of transmission of Covid 19 and age of the respondents (p value=.006);current treatment of Covid 19 and years of experience of the respondents (p value=.011). The study concluded that there is overall good awareness level among the participants of the study.   Keywords: COVID 19, Awareness, Health care workers.

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Abstract

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), also known as von Recklinghausen disease, is an autosomal disease caused by mutations in the NF1 tumor suppressor gene. NF1 affects bones, nerves, soft tissues and skin. Oral manifestations of NF1 consist of soft tissue tumors, bone defects, periodontal and dental changes, and altered salivary flow. We report one such case, a 26-year-old man with Gingival enlargement, Café au lait spots, axillary freckling, and multiple nodules on his body.   Keywords: Neurofibromatosis, Gingiva, Cafe au lait, Oral manifestations

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