Journal of Applied Dentistry and Oral Sciences

This study evaluated the effectiveness of aloe vera in promoting post-extraction socket healing in controlled diabetic patients.

Thirty diabetic patients (aged 29–56 years) requiring bilateral mandibular first molar extractions were enrolled. Patients were randomly assigned to receive aloe vera gel with powder on one extraction site and no intervention on the contralateral site. Allocation was randomized using a computer-generated table. Inclusion criteria were controlled diabetes with HbA1c <7%, absence of systemic illness other than diabetes, and no recent antibiotic or herbal medication. Exclusion criteria included uncontrolled diabetes, smoking, pregnancy, and systemic immunosuppression. Wound healing was assessed using the Landry, Turnbull, and Howley index on Days 1, 3, and 7. Soft tissue contour was measured clinically and via casts at Days 14 and 30. Sample size (n = 30) was based on previous pilot data with 80% power and α = 0.05.

Aloe vera sites demonstrated significantly superior healing compared to controls. Mean differences were: wound healing scores (0.76 at Day 7, p <.001), soft tissue contour (0.87 mm at 1 month, p <.001). Standard deviations and 95% confidence intervals confirmed statistical robustness.

Aloe vera enhances wound healing in diabetic patients after extraction, with improved soft tissue recovery and bone formation. Limitations include a small sample size, short follow-up, and lack of histological evaluation. Larger multicenter trials are warranted.

The disadvantages of chemical mouthwashes have prompted the search for safer and more effective anti-plaque alternatives, leading to the use of probiotics. This study evaluated and compared the efficacy of probiotic toothpaste and probiotic mouthwash in reducing Streptococcus mutans levels in plaque around orthodontic brackets.

Fifty-four patients were randomly allocated into three groups (n = 18 each) using a computer-generated random number table prepared by an independent researcher. Plaque samples were collected at baseline (Day 0) and after 30 days (Day 30) from the labial surfaces adjacent to maxillary lateral incisor brackets using the 4-pass technique. The presence of S. mutans was quantified as colony-forming units (CFU/mL) through culture methods, and statistical analysis was performed.

The probiotic toothpaste group showed a mean reduction from 2.23 ± 0.68 to 1.51 ± 0.54 CFU/mL (∇ = 0.72, p = .002), and the probiotic mouthwash group from 2.06 ± 0.76 to 1.70 ± 0.55 CFU/mL (∇ = 0.36, p = .015). The control group exhibited a minimal, non-significant reduction (∇ = 0.08, p = .756). Although the reduction was greater in the toothpaste group, the intergroup difference was not statistically significant (p = .051).

Both probiotic toothpaste and mouthwash significantly reduced S. mutans levels over 30 days, with toothpaste showing a slightly greater, though not statistically significant, effect. Probiotic-based oral care products may be a viable adjunct for microbial control in orthodontic patients.

Oral health remains an overlooked aspect of healthcare in India’s tribal populations, despite its link to systemic diseases. Maharashtra’s tribes, including the Warli, Bhil, Katkari, and Mahadeo Koli, face disproportionate oral health burdens. Malocclusion, though prevalent, is rarely addressed due to poor access to orthodontic care.

To assess oral health challenges, particularly malocclusion, in tribal communities of Maharashtra and to propose culturally sensitive, affordable strategies for improving orthodontic care access.

A literature review of peer-reviewed studies, government reports, and pilot programs was undertaken. Field observations from oral health camps in Palghar, Gadchiroli, and Nashik were incorporated. Surveys and interviews with healthcare workers, teachers, and community leaders explored perceptions and barriers.

Barriers included geographic isolation, low income, cultural beliefs, and workforce shortages. Malocclusion affects 20–43% of Indian children, with early signs detected in 65–70% through school-based screenings. Mobile clinics improved access by 40%, tele-orthodontic consultations reported 90% satisfaction, and training of ASHAs/Anganwadi workers increased referrals by 25%. Removable and interceptive appliances, 70% cheaper than fixed appliances, improved treatment compliance.

Orthodontic care for tribal populations is both a challenge and an opportunity. Integrating traditional practices with modern orthodontics, while improving awareness, affordability, and accessibility, can reduce disparities. Scalable, community-based interventions in Maharashtra may serve as models for national implementation, supporting progress toward the Sustainable Development Goal of Good Health and well-being.

Due to its ease of use and quick turnaround times, dental bleaching has grown to be one of the most popular aesthetic procedures. But regrettably, it has the bothersome consequence of dental hypersensitivity. The purpose of this clinical study was to assess the effectiveness of a desensitizing agent used during in-office bleaching with 35% hydrogen peroxide.

This randomized, double-blind, parallel-group clinical trial (registered at CTRI/2019/05/019123 on 22nd May 2019) included 45 participants randomly allocated into three equal groups (n = 15) using a computer-generated sequence and opaque, sealed envelopes. Group I received Bioenamel (Prevest Denpro, India), Group II received GC Tooth Mousse (GC Corporation, Japan), and Group III received a placebo (Glycerine Liquid, Scortis Health Care). All interventions were applied post-bleaching. The primary outcome was hypersensitivity measured using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) immediately, daily for 7 days, and at 1 month. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test.

All participants reported no baseline sensitivity prior to bleaching. Immediately after bleaching, all groups exhibited a significant increase in hypersensitivity (p < .001). Among them, the Bioenamel group showed the lowest median VAS scores, followed by the GC Tooth Mousse group, while the placebo group demonstrated the highest sensitivity levels. A statistically significant difference in hypersensitivity was observed between groups at all evaluation intervals (immediate, 24 hours, and 1 week; p < .05), with Bioenamel consistently providing superior relief. By the end of one week and at one-month follow-up, all groups reported no sensitivity.

Bioenamel (Prevest Denpro) was the most effective at reducing post-bleaching hypersensitivity as compared to GC Tooth Mousse and placebo.

CTRI/2019/05/019123