Dental Journal

Nigerian dental anxiety, fear, and phobia: A prevalence review

Chiedu Eseadi, Endang R. Surjaningrum — Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: Dental anxiety, dental fear, and dental phobia are psychological conditions that commonly affect individuals, making dental visits and treatments daunting and distressing. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate dental anxiety, fear, and phobia among Nigerians through a literature review design. The main outcome of the study was to assess the prevalence of dental anxiety, fear, and phobia among Nigerians. Methods: The research databases used were Google Scholar, PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Cochrane. After independent assessors read the full texts to ensure eligibility, 23 studies were selected for inclusion, while 65 papers were excluded. These studies documented the existence of dental anxiety, fear, and phobia among Nigerians from 2002 to 2022. Results: Among the selected studies, there were 21 dental anxiety studies, one dental fear study, and one dental phobia study. The prevalence of dental anxiety in these studies ranged from 7.43% to 62.8%, the prevalence of dental fear was 36.8%, and the prevalence of dental phobia was 30%. Notably, dental anxiety studies were more frequently carried out among residents of South-Western Nigeria than residents of other regions of the country. The Modified Dental Anxiety Scale was the most commonly used instrument for assessing dental anxiety among study participants. Dental anxiety, fear, and phobia were commonly associated with dental health concerns, past pain experiences, and previous traumatic dental treatment among Nigerians. Conclusions: Dental anxiety, dental fear, and dental phobia affect both Nigerian children, adolescents, and adults, though the prevalence and extent of investigation vary by group and region. Further empirical studies are needed across different regions of the country, particularly in the South-Eastern and North-Eastern regions, focusing on hospitals, schools, and community-based settings. Psychological services can be implemented alongside dental treatments to help alleviate anxiety, fear, and phobias in Nigerian dental patients.

Understanding the role of salivary proteomic markers in detecting chronic periodontitis in adults with obesity—A systematic review

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: This manuscript investigated the intricate relationships among obesity, chronic periodontitis (CP), and salivary proteomics. Purpose: Aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these interconnected health conditions. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted in compliance with the registered PROSPERO protocol (vide number CRD42023422848). Out of 361 screened records, four articles were chosen and analyzed to examine the potential connections between obesity-related systemic inflammation, oral health decline, and changes in salivary protein profiles. Results: The major biomarkers identified were interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, matrix metalloproteinases, and alpha defensins. Conclusion: The results shared here could aid in crafting specific diagnostic and treatment approaches for those suffering from obesity and CP.

Palatine suture obliteration method for age estimates of burn victims with minimal tooth remains: a case report

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: A disaster is a serious disruption in the functioning of a society that can cause many losses. It can be caused by nature or humans. When the loss of life is on a large scale, the recovery process is made more complicated by simultaneous identification operations. Biological profiling is of paramount importance when investigating cases; the age at which a victim dies is crucial for reconstructing the victim’s life. Purpose: The purpose of this case study is to highlight the utility of palatal suture obliteration as a valuable indicator for age estimation in adults, especially when there are minimal remaining dental elements that make age estimation by other methods of dental analysis impossible. Case: The author presents a case of burn victims due to a fire disaster in the fuel oil terminal area in Jakarta that killed several victims. As they were found in a visually unrecognizable condition, without identity documents, and in a state where the victims’ teeth left few dental elements, effort is needed to assist in identifying the victims, including victim age estimation techniques with ideal methods that can be applied in the field. Case management: The Crow-Glassman Scale (CGS) is used to describe the extent of burns to tissue remnants. On external examination, all body parts showed the burns reaching level 3 CGS. The victim is estimated to be over 50 years old. Decision making is based on the guidelines of the Mann method, wherein if more than 50% of the anterior median palatine suture is obliterated, then the minimum estimated age is 50 years. Conclusion: The obliteration of the palatal sutures can be used as supporting evidence when considered alongside other more reliable age indicators that can narrow down the age of unidentified individuals.

A dilution method to increase the yield of engineered basic fibroblast growth factor

Indira Widyantoro, Isao Hirata, Koichi Kato — Sat, 10 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: Genetically engineered chimeric proteins have potential applications as components of dental materials and can be synthesized recombinantly in various cells, including bacteria, yeast, insects and mammals. However, increasing the yields of functionally active products remains a challenge. Purpose: This study focused on basic fibroblast growth factor fused with pentadeca (GGGGS)3 peptide as a linker and hexahistidine as an affinity tag (bFGF-PH). The objective was to enhance the yield of bFGF-PH expressed in bacteria by employing a dilution method. Methods: Escherichia coli was used to express bFGF-PH in a soluble form, which was then purified using metal chelate affinity chromatography. The protein solution was diluted 100-fold with a buffer solution to promote spontaneous refolding. Subsequently, the protein solution was concentrated using metal chelate affinity chromatography. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy was used to analyze the protein’s structure, assessing its correct folding by comparing it to a reference spectrum obtained through computer-based simulation. Results: The dilution method prevented bFGF-PH aggregation, and CD spectroscopy suggested that the protein was correctly folded. As a result, a total of 3.0 mg of bFGF-PH was obtained per liter of lysogeny broth medium, which was higher than the yield achieved using the conventional method. Conclusion: The dilution method examined in this study increased the yield of correctly folded bFGF-PH.

Oral health promotion on social media: Perceptions of Malaysian young adults

Sat, 10 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: Over the years, social media (SM) has become a powerful tool for communication and health promotion, enabling health professionals to connect with wider audiences in real time. However, there is a lack of qualitative data to understand end users’ perspectives on what is effective and what may require improvement. Purpose: This study aimed to explore preferences, reactions, and perceived impacts of oral health (OH) promotion on SM among Malaysian young adults. Methods: This qualitative study involved in-depth interviews with young adults aged 20–35 years. Purposive sampling was used to ensure diverse representation across several states in Malaysia. Twenty interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were coded and analyzed thematically using Atlas.ti software. Three main themes—preferences, reactions, and perceived impacts—and seven sub-themes emerged from the analysis. Results: The young adults expressed positive views regarding OH promotion activities on SM. Most participants preferred visually appealing OH content, such as short videos and infographics, delivered in simple terms in the national language, and presented by health professionals. Although some participants identified as silent readers who did not actively engage with OH-related content, most believed that SM interventions had positively influenced their OH knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Conclusion: Most participants had positive perceptions of OH promotion through SM interventions, with some expressing clear content preferences. These findings may support the development of more effective OH promotion strategies in Malaysia that better align with user expectations.

Evaluation of maxillary sinus septa using cone-beam computed tomography in a Turkish population

Ridvan Guler, Belgin Gulsun — Sat, 10 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: A comprehensive understanding of maxillary sinus anatomy is essential for successful maxillofacial surgical interventions. The presence of bony septa along the inner surface of the sinus significantly increases the risk of Schneiderian membrane perforation during sinus floor elevation procedures for dental implant placement. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the frequency, localization, and lateralization of maxillary sinus septa using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) prior to sinus surgery. Methods: Cone-beam computed tomography images of 750 patients (353 men, 397 women) were included in this study. Cases with sinus septa were analyzed based on gender, anatomical location (anterior, middle, posterior), and lateralization (unilateral or bilateral). All data were recorded and statistically analyzed to determine prevalence rates. Results: The average age of the patients was 35 years. A total of 1,500 maxillary sinuses (right and left) were examined, and 275 sinus septa (32%) were identified in 240 patients. Of these, 60 septa (22%) were located in the anterior region, 140 (51%) in the middle, and 75 (27%) in the posterior region. Conclusion: In this study, sinus septa were present in 32% of patients in the Turkish population. Recognizing and detecting maxillary sinus septa with CBCT is important for preventing complications during surgical procedures.

Influence of anxiety and vital signs before dental treatment

Tue, 20 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: In the dental field, the anxiety that patients experience before attending a dental appointment is a factor that has increased the rates of oral diseases. This could be because patients visit the dentist less frequently and, in many cases, when they already require specialized treatment. Purpose: The purpose of this research was to determine the levels of anxiety and how they influence the vital signs of patients. Methods: The population consisted of 217 patients who received dental care at a health center and accepted the informed consent provided. The Modified Corah Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) was used to determine the level of anxiety. Statistical tests, such as the chi-square test, logistic regression, and odds ratio, were used to determine whether anxiety influences vital signs and dental treatment success. Results: All patients showed anxiety, which was distributed as mild (24.9%), moderate (26.7%), high (7.4%), and severe or phobic (41%). Regarding vital signs, 61.8% of patients presented some alteration in blood pressure, 56.7% had alterations in heart rate, 12.4% showed low oxygen saturation levels, and 24% presented alterations in respiratory rate. Despite these factors, 98.6% of the treatments the patients underwent were successful, and only 1.4% were affected by the influence of anxiety. Conclusion: It was found that the patients presented anxiety at different levels, which affected the typical values of vital signs. However, this situation did not affect the success of the dental treatment.

Effect of corncob powder concentration on properties of inlay waxes

Sat, 10 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: Corncob powder is a promising filler that needs to be assessed when it is incorporated into inlay waxes to modified its properties. Purpose: This study aims to investigate the effect of different concentrations of corncob powder filler on physical and mechanical properties of inlay waxes. Methods: Five groups of inlay waxes were prepared from paraffin, corncob powder, carnauba wax, and beeswax in varying proportions (w/w%), namely, group I (70:0:25:5), II (65:5:25:5), III (60:10:25: 5), IV (55:15:25:5), and V (50:20:25:5). The wax mixture was heated at 80°C, filtered, added with corncob powder, and stirred until homogeneous then poured into mold for melting point, residue on ignition, flow, hardness, and trimming samples. They were based on ANSI/ADA specification no.122 and ASTM D 1321. The data were analyzed through one-way ANOVA, post-hoc LSD, and Tamhane tests (p = 0.05), except trimming test data. Results: One-way ANOVA revealed that the concentration of corncob filler influenced all inlay waxes properties (p<0.05). LSD and Tamhane post-hoc test, showed significant different among mostly between groups of tests. Addition corncob powder increased the melting point, hardness, and residue of inlay waxes but decreased the flow of inlay waxes. Addition corncob did not influence the trimming property of inlay waxes. Conclusion: The concentration of corncob filler added in inlay wax compositions influenced the melting point, flow, hardness and residue properties but did not influence trimming properties. Inlay wax containing 10% corncob filler potential as a local inlay wax, but further research should be done to overcome the residue on ignition property that higher than standards.

Parental awareness of oral health in children with epidermolysis bullosa in Indonesia

Sat, 10 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: Children affected by epidermolysis bullosa (EB) have serious oral conditions that may affect their quality of life. It is the parents’ crucial role to maintain the oral health of children with EB. Purpose: This study aims to determine the crucial role of parents in maintaining the oral health of children with EB. It also aims to assess parents’ oral health knowledge and perceptions of their children’s oral health-related quality of life. Methods: Conducted at Yayasan Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association, Indonesia, this descriptive study employed a questionnaire translated through cross-cultural adaptation and the Caregiver Perception Questionnaire using a Likert scale. Results: Among the 18 respondents, parental knowledge appeared favorable. Regarding the oral symptoms dimension, 56% of children were in the excellent category, 28% in the moderate category, and 17% in the poor category. In terms of functional limitations, 50% were in the suitable category, 39% were moderate, and 11% were poor. In the emotional state dimension, 78% of participants were in the excellent category, whereas 22% were in the moderate category. In the social conditions dimension, 89% were in the excellent category and 11% in the moderate category. Conclusion: Although parents demonstrated an understanding of oral health care for EB, challenges in implementation emerged.

Antibacterial and anti-adherence effect of Laportea interupta ethanolic extract on Streptococcus mutans biofilm

Sat, 10 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: Due to its capacity to generate extracellular polymeric substances that aid in biofilm creation, Streptococcus mutans is a leading cause of dental caries. Natural remedies, including traditional plant extracts, are being explored for their antimicrobial potential. Laportea interupta (L. interupta), known as jelatang in Indonesia, is alleged to possess a bacteria-inhibiting effect. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the potential use of L. interupta leaf ethanolic extract to inhibit S. mutans proliferation and adherence to hydroxyapatite (HA) discs, simulating the tooth surface. Methods: The broth microdilution approach was utilized to evaluate the minimum concentration of the extract that inhibits bacterial growth. For anti-adherence assessment, HA discs pre-coated with saliva were exposed to different extract concentrations and incubated with S. mutans. Bacterial adhesion was visualized using 0.1% crystal violet staining, quantified spectrophotometrically at 595 nm, and further verified using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: The extract showed inhibitory effects on S. mutans growth at 7,500 μg/ml (MIC). Anti-adherence activity was optimal at 1,500 μg/ml, and SEM analysis confirmed a reduced biofilm formation on extract-treated samples. Conclusion: Laportea interupta ethanolic leaf extract demonstrated both antibacterial and anti-adherence effects against S. mutans, suggesting its potential as a natural anti-biofilm agent for oral health applications.

The correlation of head posture (NSL/OPT angle) with maxilla and mandible relation (ANB angle) by cephalometric analysis (Review of Deutro Malay children aged 10–12 years in Jakarta)

Thu, 15 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: Proper head posture involves an upright head with minimal muscle work and maximum mechanical efficiency in the central nervous system. Muscular imbalance in the cervical spine and stomatognathic system affects head posture and maxillary–mandibular malrelation. Age 10–12 years is the golden period for orthodontic treatment, for which an assessment of head posture needs to be considered. The nasion-sella line/odontoid process tangent (NSL/OPT) angle represents flexion–extension of the head posture; the A point, Nasion, B point (ANB) angle is used to determine the maxillary–mandibular relationship. No research has ever been conducted on the relationship between the NSL/OPT and ANB angles in children of the Deutro Malay race aged between 10 and 12 years. Purpose: This study aims to analyze the relationship between the NSL/OPT and ANB angles in children of the Deutro Malay race aged between 10 and 12 years. Methods: This research was conducted at the Pediatric Dental and Radiology Clinic of Universitas Indonesia Dental Hospital with 33 respondents aged between 10 and 12 years, taking the inclusion and exclusion criteria into account. Lateral cephalometric radiographs were taken, and the NSL/OPT and ANB angles were determined using ImageJ software. Data analysis was conducted using the Pearson correlation test. Results: The mean values for the NSL/OPT and ANB angles are 97.9 and 3.15, respectively. The correlation test result (r = 0.067; p-value = 0.713) indicates an immensely weak relationship between the NSL/OPT and ANB angles and is not significant. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that there was an exceedingly weak linear relationship; it can be concluded that the angle of head posture cannot be correlated to the ANB angle.

Prevalence of dental anxiety and its association with mental health among adults in Kuantan, Malaysia

Tue, 27 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: There is a limited number of studies on the prevalence of dental anxiety among the general population in Malaysia and its association with mental health. Purpose: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of dental anxiety and its association with mental health. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 474 adults attending a public hospital in Kuantan, Malaysia. Participants were required to answer validated, self-administered questionnaires that used the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) and Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS). Data were analyzed using chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between dental anxiety and other variables. Results: A total of 461 respondents completed the questionnaire, with a response rate of 97.3%. The prevalence of dental anxiety among respondents was very high (93.1%). We found that females were 2.3 times more likely to have dental anxiety than males. Meanwhile, an increase in age by one year reduced the likelihood of having dental anxiety by 3%. However, no significant association was found between dental anxiety and mental health. Conclusion: The majority of adults in Kuantan were found to have dental anxiety. Female and younger patients were more likely to have dental anxiety. Our study failed to find any association between dental anxiety and mental health.

Ethanol extracts of Rhynchosia nulubilis induce G2/M phase arrest by inducing deoxyribonucleic acid damage in human oral squamous cell carcinoma cells

Young Sun Hwang — Tue, 27 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: Early cancer diagnosis is very important for cancer treatment and improvement of patient prognosis, but the development of effective cancer treatment agents is also necessary to overcome cancer. Accordingly, research is being actively conducted to derive ingredients that control cancer progression. Purpose: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Rhynchosia nulubilis have been reported in various human cells. We attempted to ascertain the underlying mechanism by which the ethanol extracts of Rhynchosia nulubilis (EERN) induced cytotoxicity and cell cycle arrest in human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells. Methods: The EERN was prepared from the whole Rhynchosia nulubilis. A 3-(4,5 dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was performed for cytotoxicity of EERN in YD38 OSCC cells. A Matrigel-coated Transwell was used for invasion assay. Changes in the cell cycle distribution were monitored using fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis. A phosphorylated form of H2AX (γH2AX) foci formation was observed using a fluorescence microscope. Results: Invasion activity of YD38 cells in a Matrigel-coated Transwell was significantly decreased by EERN in a dose-dependent manner. Cytotoxicity was observed at a treatment concentration of 8–10 mg/ml EERN, which induced Transwell invasion inhibition. The YD38 cells were more sensitive to EERN cytotoxicity than immortalized gingival fibroblasts. The EERN treatment arrested the YD38 cell cycle in the G2/M phase, and DNA damage marker γH2AX formation was increased by the EERN treatment. The phosphorylation of ataxia telangiectasia mutated and Chk2 was also increased by EERN treatment. Conclusion: These results indicate that EERN inhibits YD38 cancer cell growth and invasion activity through DNA damage and cell cycle arrest.

Dental caries risk factors in West Jakarta Primary students: A cross-sectional study

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background: The majority of children in Indonesia, particularly in Jakarta, continue to experience numerous dental and oral health issues, with dental caries being especially prevalent. Caries is a multifactorial disease that, in children, can be caused by personal habits or external influences. Purpose: This study aimed to determine the relationship between caries risk factors and the occurrence of caries in primary school children in West Jakarta, Indonesia. Methods: The study was conducted in three public primary schools in West Jakarta in November 2023. Oral examinations and questionnaires were completed by all students from fourth to sixth grade, with a total sample size of 421 students. In this study, caries was the dependent variable, and the independent variables included sociodemographic factors, oral health behaviors, smoking habits, and dietary habits. Data analysis involved bivariate analysis and the application of a multivariate prediction model using logistic regression. Results: The variables significantly associated with dental caries were never visiting the dentist (p < 0.05), brushing teeth never or only several times a week (p < 0.05), never consuming fruits (p < 0.05), and consuming biscuits several times a day (p < 0.05). However, other variables—such as parental education, use of oral cleaning tools and fluoride toothpaste, smoking habits, and consumption of certain sweet foods and beverages—did not show a significant association. Conclusion: The most substantial factors contributing to dental caries were infrequent toothbrushing and frequent consumption of biscuits. Interestingly, children who never visited the dentist had lower incidences of caries.