Tamil Nadu Government Dental College and Hospital

Amaranthus spinosus is a medicinal plant with notable pharmacological properties. In the present work, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using methanolic leaf extract of A. spinosus . The synthesis of AgNPs was indicated by a color change from green to brown and confirmed through UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM, and XRD analyses. The XRD peaks between 20° and 50° confirmed the crystalline nature of AgNPs, while SEM (1 μm scale) revealed uniformly distributed spherical nanoparticles below 100 nm. The AgNPs exhibited potent antimicrobial activity, with the highest inhibition observed against Klebsiella pneumoniae (20 mm at 100 μg), surpassing the plant extract. Antioxidant assays proved the free radical scavenging capacity of AgNPs compared with standard ascorbic acid. At 500 μg/mL, AgNPs achieved 71% DPPH scavenging, 75% hydroxyl radical scavenging, and 68% reducing power, significantly outperforming the plant extract. The in vitro anticancer property of AgNPs against HT‐29 colorectal cancer cells revealed a concentration‐dependent cytotoxic effect, with maximum cell death at 100 μg/mL. AO/EtBr staining confirmed apoptosis through a shift from green to orange/red fluorescence, while DAPI staining indicated nuclear condensation and fragmentation. These findings highlight A. spinosus ‐derived AgNPs as promising candidates for biomedical applications, offering enhanced antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties via eco‐friendly synthesis.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to significantly transform the role of the doctor and revolutionize the practice of medicine and radiology. Studies have documented the clinical potentials of AI in medical imaging practice to improving patient care. There are no studies done in India that assess the attitude and perspectives of oral radiologists toward AI in dental radiology. The present study aimed to identify barriers and enablers for the implementation of AI in dental radiology. The study employs a qualitative design using an open-ended instrument. The sample size was 35 oral radiologists who were working within the district of Chennai and convenience/snowball sampling was done. Data obtained were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Six themes of concerns were generated: expectant tool; career insecurity; cost of new technology; equipment preservation and data insecurity; service delivery quality; need for expanding AI awareness. A questionnaire developed along the Theoretical Domains Framework and the Capabilities, Opportunities, and Motivations influencing Behaviors model was used to guide interviews. Mayring's content analysis was employed to point out barriers and enablers. In the current study, nine themes were identified as enablers, four as conflicting themes, and seven as barriers for the acceptance of AI-integrated radiology. The factors that influence the radiology field and their attitude toward the introduction of AI in dental radiology were assessed thoroughly. Both stakeholders emphasized chances and hopes for AI along with marginal fear of job insecurity. A range of enablers for implementing AI in dental diagnostics was identified (e.g., the chance for higher diagnostic accuracy, a reduced workload, more comprehensive reporting, and better patient–provider communication). AI has an important role to play in the global health care setting. The current study reported the attitudes and apprehensions of oral radiologists toward AI integration in radiology. Decision-makers and radiology industry may want to consider the barriers and conflicting themes that appear as challenges to foster implementation of AI in dentistry.

Objectives When a specific drug causes a significant adverse impact in a large-scale population, the adverse effects are tracked by pharmacovigilance; when the risk surpasses the advantage, it is suggested that the country withdraws the substance. Drugs banned in other countries are still available in India. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of medical resident (MR) and dental resident (DR) regarding the availability and use of drugs that have been globally discarded but are still accessible in India. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2024 to August 2024, involving 100 MRs and DRs from various colleges in Chennai. Participants interested in the survey were included in the study. A set of 18 questions were formulated and directed to the participants. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software. Results Around 93.0% of MR and 80.7% of DRs were aware that some globally banned drugs are available in India. On evaluating the difference in knowledge regarding globally discarded drugs availability in India among MRs and DRs, no difference in knowledge and awareness was elicited. Around 39.5% of MR and 35.1% of DR perceive that creating awareness about adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting among healthcare professionals and patients could impart drug safety in India. Conclusion These findings highlight the need for enhanced educational initiatives targeting healthcare professionals to increase awareness about the risks associated with globally banned drugs. Moreover, strengthening the ADR reporting system and ensuring strict regulatory oversights are crucial steps toward improving drug safety in India.

Background Conventionally, dental implants were placed several months after tooth extraction. Immediate implants were placed on the same day of extraction along with the conservation of the crestal bone. Immediate loading of implant facilitates immediate prosthetic reconstruction within 48 h of implant placement. In this study, both immediate and delayed implants were loaded immediately and their peri-implant bone loss, implant stability, and the soft-tissue outcomes around the implant were evaluated. Materials and Methods Fourteen patients were included in this study, of which seven patients were under Group A (delayed) and seven patients were under Group B (immediate). The clinical evaluation was done at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months which includes plaque scores, bleeding on probing, and probing depth. Implant stability was tested by resonance frequency analyzer (implant stability quotient), and radiological evaluation of crestal bone loss was done by cone-beam computed tomography preoperatively and after 6 months. Results In this study, there was no statistically significant difference ( P > 0.05) in the clinical parameters (plaque index, bleeding on probing, and probing depth) and radiological outcomes within the groups at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. The implant stability quotient and crestal bone loss between Groups A and B showed a statistically significant difference at baseline and 6 months, wherein there were higher implant stability and decreased crestal bone loss in Group A when compared to Group B. Conclusion Delayed implants with immediate loading were superior to immediate implants with immediate loading.

Background The therapeutic potential of herbs in treating various diseases is gaining recognition due to their promising outcomes and minimal side effects. One such herb, Nigella sativa , is renowned for its medicinal properties, particularly due to its extract, Thymoquinone (TQ), which demonstrates anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic, and immune-modulating effects. Green synthesis methods for nano-sized particles are considered environmentally friendly and have been proven effective given their size, higher surface-to-volume ratio, and enhanced physical and mechanical properties. This study aims to investigate a novel approach in the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles of Nigella sativa and 0.1% TQ and to assess their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities . Materials and Methods The seeds of NS were used to green synthesize silver nanoparticles. The anti-inflammatory effects of the green synthesized particles were tested using egg albumin and bovine serum assays, and their anti-oxidant actions were assessed using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl denaturation assay and H 2 O 2 assay. Results The novel formulation of Nigella sativa -mediated silver nanoparticles with 0.1% TQ exhibits 76% anti-inflammatory activity and 80%–87% anti-oxidant properties. Conclusion Our results suggest that the silver nanoparticles mediated from N. sativa with 0.1% TQ extract could serve as an effective herbal adjunct for treating periodontal infections because of its potent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Patients receiving orthodontic treatment should have their oral hygiene regularly maintained. Patients can improve their oral hygiene performance during orthodontic treatment with the use of remote digital monitoring. The current research was done to assess the AI-based monitoring method in improving oral hygiene during orthodontic procedure. METHODOLOGY Forty patients scheduled for fixed orthodontic treatment were divided into two groups of 20 each as; Group A- Control group, Group B- Test group (AI monitoring). Patients in the test group received a cheek retractor and scan box (Dental Monitoring®) and were directed to undergo regular intraoral scans. Orthodontic Plaque Index (OPI), Marginal Gingival Index (MGI), and White Spot Lesions (WSL) evaluated for both groups at baseline period (P0), after 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 6 weeks as P1, P2, P3, respectively, and at 3 months (P4). The obtained data was statistically analyzed. RESULT In comparison to the control group, test group subjects demonstrated a substantial decrease in plaque score, gingival inflammation and White Spot Lesions (WSL). CONCLUSION During orthodontic treatment, integrating a remote monitoring system improves plaque, gingival inflammation, and white spot lesions. This method helps patients to retain their best possible oral health.

Background A common and persistent inflammatory condition impacting the supportive structures of teeth, periodontal disease presents notable challenges in dental healthcare. It leads to various clinical issues, including the loss of clinical attachment, increased pocket depth, and tooth mobility. The global prevalence of periodontitis is substantial, with an estimated 20%–50% of the world’s population affected, particularly in developing countries. Furthermore, periodontitis often culminates in tooth loss, affecting overall health and the quality of life, particularly in aging populations. Early intervention and accurate prediction of tooth loss are crucial for improving oral health outcomes. Conventional prognostic models have their constraints in sensitivity, prompting the exploration of alternative approaches. Machine learning, an evolving field in artificial intelligence, has gained prominence in various domains, including healthcare. In this study, we examined the potential of machine learning to predict tooth loss based on diverse parameters, including age, systemic diseases (such as diabetes and hypertension), grades of tooth mobility, oral hygiene habits, and more. Materials and Methods Data from 200 patients were collected, categorized by gender, age, and mobility grades, with 45 having diabetes, 36 with hypertension, and the remaining free of these systemic diseases. The Orange machine learning tool was employed to analyze these data. The free and open-source data visualization and machine learning platform offers user-friendly visual programming for predictive modeling and data analysis. Results This study showed that machine learning models produced highly accurate predictions, with an area under the curve of 1.000 for several algorithms, such as Naive Bayes, AdaBoost, Random Forest, and Neural Network. Accuracy, precision, recall, and specificity values consistently exceeded 95%, demonstrating the potential of machine learning in predicting tooth loss. Conclusion By analyzing comprehensive datasets, machine learning models can enhance the accuracy and objectivity of tooth loss prediction. While challenges remain, such as data quality and privacy concerns, integrating machine learning algorithms in dentistry can revolutionize dental healthcare, improve patient outcomes, and reshape the future of periodontics.

Venereophobia, even though a historically well-recognized entity, is often underdiagnosed in the modern era. Like any phobia, this condition presents with an intense and irrational fear of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) often following a high-risk sexual encounter. Accurate prevalence data were lacking globally. This condition is very common in men, and there are various sociocultural factors contributing to the hesitation to report to a sexual health clinic by women especially in an Indian context. Venereophobia can present with physical and/or psychological symptoms where the patients seek repeated consultations even after repeated reassurances that they were cured of STIs. This is due to the fear that stems from previous high-risk encounters, misinformation, and social stigma. Diagnosing this condition requires expertise from both dermatologists and psychiatrists. In addition to treating the physical symptoms, the patients require reassurance and psychoeducation, extensive laboratory work-up to prove them that they have no STIs, and, in extreme cases, might require cognitive behavioral therapy and/or antipsychotic medications. It is recommended to set up psychodermatology liaison clinics, which help in improving the diagnosis, management and follow-up of these patients.

Background Mentoring among health professionals has evolved since 1990 in informal ways. The mentoring relationship is dynamic, with both mentor and mentee continuously redefining their roles. Mentoring is a promising tool for bridging the gap and promoting academic activities, research growth, and mental health. It makes students more resilient for upcoming roles and handling adverse unforeseen situations. Objectives The objectives were to evaluate the performance-based effectiveness of a formal mentorship program among medical undergraduates and facilitators. Methodology The formal mentorship program was implemented in the academic year 2022. The program evaluation (Kirkpatrick level 2) was done with closed-ended questionnaires in Google Forms among UG students and 8-panel experts from various disciplines. The panelist’s anonymity was maintained with four open questionnaires in multiple rounds of the Delphi technique. Results Two hundred and seventy-nine out of 304 students in the three phases had participated. They agreed mentorship program was useful (64.9%), particularly in academics (53%), personal (43%), and research (5%). The main barriers were time constraints (48.1%), and the academic position of the faculty (21.9%). The summarization of the Delphi technique was done by thematic analysis. The factors promoting mentorship were academic needs, personal problems, and research. Most experts accepted that barriers to mentorship could be addressed by time resource planning, administrative support, and introverted student handling. Further consensus agreement was to implement group mentoring, e-mentoring, and peer mentoring as alternative measures. Conclusion A formal mentorship program scores a win in government-run medical institutes. Despite barriers, there is a strong urge among faculties and students to forward the move towards mentorship-based curricular activities.

Skeletal Class III malocclusion in adolescents can be effectively managed using the combination of maxillary skeletal expander (MSE) and facemask (FM). An adolescent presented concerns about her lower front teeth positioned ahead of the upper front teeth, difficulty closing the lips, and dissatisfaction with the facial appearance. The patient exhibited a skeletal Class III profile, reverse overjet, a 2 mm overbite, concave facial profile, midface retrusion, mandibular prognathism, chin deviation to the right, and increased lower facial height (LFH). Management involved the use of MSE and protraction FM. After 11 months, maxillary skeletal expansion, midface augmentation, restriction of mandibular prognathism, and stable LFH were observed. Results remained stable at the 1-year follow-up. This approach effectively manages moderate skeletal Class III malocclusion in adolescents by promoting midface augmentation and limiting further mandibular growth, potentially eliminating the need for orthognathic surgery.

The field of dental composites encompasses a diverse array of materials utilized extensively in modern dentistry for both restorative and cosmetic procedures. These composites typically consist of an organic matrix, dispersed filler particles, and a coupling agent to integrate the two. One of the most significant advancements in composite resin development came in the late 1950s when Bowen’s successfully formulated a compromise between epoxy and methacrylate resins. Nanoparticles have gained significant attention in dentistry due to their unique properties, including small particle size, increased surface area, and enhanced mechanical and optical characteristics. Various nanomaterials, including nanorods, nanospheres, nanotubes, nanofibers, and dendritic structures, are being explored for their potential in dental composites. These materials offer advantages such as antibacterial properties, remineralization capabilities, and enhanced mechanical strength. Several techniques, including wet precipitation, sol-gel, multiple emulsion, biomimetic deposition, hydrothermal, and electrodeposition, are employed in the synthesis and processing of nanocomposites. Each method offers unique advantages in terms of scalability, cost-effectiveness, and control over material properties. In conclusion, nanoparticles in composites hold tremendous promise in revolutionizing dental restorative materials. By leveraging nanotechnology, researchers can develop materials with tailored properties to meet specific dental needs, ultimately improving patient outcomes and oral health. Ongoing research into antimicrobial mechanisms and fabrication techniques will further advance the field of dental nanocomposites.

Context Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acids (EDTA’s) limitations have spurred the quest for alternative irrigants with effective chelation and minimal dentinal erosion. Aims The aim is to determine the ideal concentration and contact time of sodium gluconate by assessing its effectiveness in removing the smear layer and its impact on radicular dentin. Materials and Methods Eighty single-rooted mandibular premolars with a single canal were decoronated to a standardized length. Following chemo mechanical preparation, the teeth were randomly allocated into four groups based on the final irrigant: Group I: 17% EDTA, Group II: 15% sodium gluconate, Group III: 17% sodium gluconate, and Group IV: 20% sodium gluconate. Each group was further divided into two subgroups based on contact time (30 s and 1 min). Samples were longitudinally split for scanning electron microscope analysis at ×5000, and images were examined across the coronal, middle, and apical third to assess smear layer removal and dentinal erosion. Statistical Analysis Used Data were statistically analyzed using Student’s t -test and analysis of variance with post hoc test. Results Seventeen percent sodium gluconate at both 30 s and 1 min demonstrated minimal dentinal erosion and showed comparable performance to 17% EDTA at 1 min, with no statistically significant difference. Conclusions Seventeen percent sodium gluconate at 30 s may be considered a promising alternative to 17% EDTA.

A BSTRACT Background There is a high possibility of cross-infections within the dental clinics given the nature of treatment procedures performed in the dental set-ups. Hence, interrupting this chain of transmission of infections within the dental clinics is an important part of routine dental practice including infections that are airborne and has significantly higher chances of transmission and that may have serious sequelae. The active transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) held responsible for the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, was, also, declared to occur mainly through the respiratory system. In similar context, very few of the studies have raised similar concerns regarding a general lack of awareness among dental students and interns as well as other healthcare providers. The objective of the present study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards droplet and airborne isolation precautions among dental students and interns. Methods The present study was conducted in a cross-sectional study design between October 2022 and December 2022, while the physical questionnaire survey instrument distributed among a total of 236, 3 rd and 4 th year dental undergraduate students and interns, comprised of 11 closed-ended questions for the assessment of KAP among dental students and interns towards droplet and airborne isolation precautions as illustrated by the guidelines prescribed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data obtained was entered into excel sheets and subjected to statistical analysis. Results The means of the KAP scores among participants were calculated as 8.74 ± 2.13, 49.06 ± 7.17, and 4.18 ± 1.24 respectively, in the present study. Also, a significant positive correlation was observed between the KAP scores among the participants, with the correlations being statistically significant when compared between the Knowledge–Attitudes scores ( P = 0.03), the Knowledge–Practices scores ( P = 0.04), and highly significant between the Attitudes–Practices scores ( P = 0.001). Conclusions From the results obtained, it was concluded that dental students and interns were well aware of the necessary precautions and guidelines towards droplet and airborne isolation precautions, though on close observation, it was observed that despite adequate knowledge and attitudes scores, practices scores were comparatively low.

Every day, humans are exposed to a wide range of chemicals from numerous sources. A variety of contaminants are released into the environment through the use of personal care products (PCPs). In recent years, various types of beauty care products have been introduced, and their usage has significantly increased. Although the concentrations of harmful chemicals in PCPs are minimal, they can have adverse effects on human health and well-being. These chemicals primarily affect the endocrine system and may impair human reproductive success. Parabens and phthalates are common endocrine-disrupting chemicals present in PCPs used daily. Several previous studies have reported the harmful effects of parabens and phthalates, such as disruptions in thyroid gland secretion, sperm production, and reproductive hormone secretion, causing infertility, carcinogenesis, and pregnancy-related complications. Conversely, other studies have found either no significant effects or only negligible impacts on the human endocrine system. Therefore, in this review, we examine the harmful effects of parabens and phthalates on the human endocrine system by analyzing updated findings from various in vitro and in vivo studies. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate has been associated with endometriosis, intrauterine growth retardation, fibromyoma, and pregnancy loss. Similarly, butyl paraben has been shown to reduce sperm concentration and sperm count; methyl paraben to impair poor sperm motility; and propyl paraben to alter follicle-stimulating hormone concentration. Furthermore, it has been observed that the effects of parabens and phthalates are more pronounced in animals than in humans primarily due to higher dosages administered during in vivo studies. In summary, the toxic effects of parabens and phthalates on the human endocrine system depend largely on dosage, geographical location, lifestyle factors, and duration of exposure.

Background To determine and compare arch perimeter changes obtained with and between passive self-ligating bracket systems and conventional bracket systems. Methods A thorough search in six databases up to January 11th, 2025 was done with no restriction of date. Prospective and retrospective studies that evaluated the arch perimeter changes with and between passive self-ligating (PSL) and conventional brackets. Quality assessment was done using the ROB 2.0 and ROBINS-I tools. A standard random-effects model was used in this review for analysis. Results Search identified twelve studies on arch perimeter changes with and between passive self-ligating (PSL) and conventional brackets. Eight studies were included in the quantitative analysis. Qualitative analysis indicated that arch perimeter increase was achieved with both conventional and passive self-ligating systems with no significant difference between the two. Meta-analysis indicates that there was an arch perimeter increase of 2.57 mm (0.29, 4.85) in the maxilla and 1.57 mm (-0.27, 3.41) in the mandible with passive self-ligation. However, when compared with the conventional system, the difference in arch perimeter gain was 0.09 mm (mean − 1.69, SD -1.88) in the maxillary arch and − 0.5 mm (-3.47, 2.43) in the mandibular arch. The difference was not significant. Conclusion Both conventional and self-ligation systems increased arch perimeter. However, the arch perimeter changes between the two bracket systems were not clinically or statistically significant. The hypothesis that self-ligating systems have a greater increase in arch perimeter is not based on evidence. Clinical trial number Not applicable.

Aim To correlate oral stereognosis ability (OSA) and denture satisfaction in complete denture patients. Objectives Oral stereognosis is defined as the identification of forms solely through the use of oral receptor. When a denture is being worn by the patients the level of adaptation and later the extent of satisfaction has always been an important factor in the success of the treatment. Now here in this study we shall check (1) Whether oral stereognosis tests can be used as one of the diagnostic aids in predicting patients’ performance with the complete denture. (2) Difference in oral stereognosis between satisfied and dissatisfied complete denture wearers. Materials and Methods 60 patients, 40 in Group A and 20 in Group B participated in the study. Group A were experienced denture wearers on an average of 4 years. Group B were first time denture wearers. For assessing patient’s opinion about their dentures, a questionnaire was prepared. Custom made heat cure acrylic resin test forms were made to test oral stereognosis ability. Both the groups went through the oral stereognosis test and denture satisfaction questionnaire. Based on the mean scores, both the groups were divided into satisfied and dissatisfied; high and low oral stereognosis score group. Results Spearman’s analysis showed negative correlation between oral stereognosis and satisfaction of complete denture prosthesis. Conclusion Results from the study is conclusive that patients who were satisfied with their dentures had low oral stereognosis score and patients who were dissatisfied with their denture had high oral stereognosis score.

Malocclusion is a global public dental health problem with higher prevalence and treatment needs. However, there is a perplexing literature regarding early orthodontic intervention in the mixed dentition stage. ‘2 × 4 orthodontic appliances’ have been highlighted in the literature as versatile appliances for the effective correction of various malocclusions in children. However, dental clinicians and researchers should also have updated knowledge about the negative aspects of ‘2 × 4 orthodontic appliances’, which are reported in the exiting literature. Hence, this systematic review aimed to find out the evidence about the adverse effects/complications of 2 × 4 orthodontic appliance therapy in mixed dentition phase of paediatric patients by extensively exploring and critically appraising the pertinent literature. This systematic review was performed as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Its protocol was registered in International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. Literature was searched comprehensively in six databases and also manually. After the screening of the records ( n = 1234) as per the eligibility criteria, finally, nine ( n = 5) articles were included and critically analysed using different Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. Eligible studies including Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) ( n = 1), non-RCT ( n = 2), retrospective study ( n = 1), case-report ( n = 1) published from 1999 to 2023 in which 82 patients with mean-age of 10-year, mostly with pseudo class-III malocclusion, anterior cross-bite and crowding treated using 2 x 4 appliance were found. The literature-based evidence related to the adverse effects of 2 × 4 orthodontic appliances was found to be inadequate in quantity, but majority was of high quality (low risk of bias). However, various negative aspects/complications of this particular fixed orthodontic therapy were reported by the included primary studies.