Aim of the study: The objective of the current study is to assess and establish a relationship between the mode of delivery and postnatal factors in the early colonization of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) in infants’ oral cavities. Materials and methods: The primary goal of the investigation is to assess and compare the oral microflora of newborns immediately after birth and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of age in babies born by normal vaginal delivery and lower segment cesarean section and divided into (group III) and (group V), respectively. Around 50 mother–baby pairs in total had their swab samples collected for the identification of S. mutans and were monitored for a year. The role of other postnatal factors in the acquisition of S. mutans in infants was also evaluated. Results: Data analysis showed that different postnatal factors like feeding patterns, oral hygiene practices, and socioeconomic factors affected the infant's oral cavity's initial colonization by S. mutans. Conclusion: Infants’ first exposure to oral S. mutans depends on the delivery method and various postnatal factors.

Aim: The study evaluated the effectiveness of nanosilver fluoride (NSF) in arresting dental caries in 4–8-year-old school children. Materials and methods: The two-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial included a total of 148 children aged 4–8 years with active carious lesions. Children were randomly divided into two groups: group I—NSF (n = 74); and group II—water (placebo and n = 74). Baseline data were recorded using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) II criteria, and the teeth were treated with either of the solutions. Later, the teeth were evaluated by two blinded examiners for the lesion activity using ICDAS II criteria at 1, 3, and 6-month intervals. The obtained data were analyzed using the Chi-squared test for intergroup comparison and Cochran's Q test for intragroup comparison. Cohen's κ test was used to check the interexaminer and intraexaminer variability. Results: Carious teeth treated with NSF have shown 56.3, 59.2, and 62% arrested carious lesions, whereas the placebo group has shown 0, 2.9, and 4.4% arrested lesions at 1, 3, and 6-month intervals, respectively. NSF showed a high statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) in arresting dental caries compared to the control group at all the time intervals. Conclusion: Nanosilver fluoride (NSF) is found to be effective in arresting dental caries without staining carious lesions. Therefore, it can be used to reduce the bacterial load for caries stabilization in the initial phase of the comprehensive treatment protocol for the management of children with active caries lesions. Clinical significance: Most of the decayed teeth in the primary dentition remain untreated either because of inaccessible dental services or the uncooperativeness of children. Hence, there is an absolute need for a cariostatic agent which arrests the progression of caries in a simple and noninvasive manner. The results of this study evidence that NSF effectively arrests dental caries in primary teeth. Hence, this can be a very economical way of arresting caries in the population who don't have access to regular dental treatment.

Aim: The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of visual and sign motivation on the oral hygiene of students with hearing and speech impairment studying in special schools of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 200 students. The sample was divided into two groups. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Committee. Data were collected at three points of time–at baseline, 1st and 3rd month. Results: In the age-group, 8–13 years, on intergroup comparison of mean oral hygiene index (OHI) score, no significant difference was observed on the first visit (p-value of 0.351) and second visit, respectively (p-value of 0.687), but on comparing the mean simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S) score on third visit significant difference was observed (p-value of 0.03) and in the age 14–18 years, on intergroup comparison of mean OHI-S score no significant difference was observed on first visit (p-value of 0.593) and second visit, respectively (p-value of 0.404), but on comparing the mean OHI-S score on third visit, significant difference was observed (p-value of 0.018) Both the groups have shown that there was the positive impact of reinforcement on the oral hygiene of students in this age-group as well. Conclusion: There was a significant improvement in oral hygiene status and a significant improvement in participant satisfaction toward oral health in both groups. Sign language video playback is not as effective and efficient in improving the maintenance of oral health in hearing and speech-impaired children as compared to sign language. Clinical significance: This study has helped in the better understanding of different methods of maintaining good oral hygiene of hearing and speech-impaired children.

Aim: Multidose vials (MDVs) for local anesthetic injections are routinely used in dental practice. MDVs contain multiple doses of a parenteral drug intended for administration to the same or multiple patients. Potentially harmful microbes have been shown to be able to live and occasionally multiply in MDVs if not handled aseptically. The goal of this study thus was to evaluate the bacterial and fungal contamination (FC) of lignocaine MDVs after use in a dental hospital. Materials and methods: A total of 27 MDVs of lignocaine free of any microbial contamination were distributed to different departments of the dental hospital and they were asked to use them on patients routinely. The samples were recollected from the departments either at the end of the 28th day or as and when the contents in the MDVs reached a predetermined level marked on the bottle during its usage, whichever was earlier. These leftover samples were subjected to a microbiological investigation by inoculation into thioglycolate broth and subsequent subculturing onto agar plates. Results: None of the inoculated broths showed turbidity. Subcultured agar plates, even on the 7th day of incubation, did not show any bacterial or fungal growth. The lignocaine MDVs tested after use were thus found to be sterile. Conclusion: There was no bacterial or FC detected in MDVs of lignocaine subjected to testing after use in the dental hospital. Clinical significance: Multidose vials (MDVs) continue to be used in clinics for economic reasons. But the clinician opting for MDVs should be conscious of their potential for microbial contamination and should meticulously follow the protocol for their aseptic use.

Introduction: Dental fear and anxiety is the most common distressing problem for children. Management of dental anxiety in children is one of the most difficult tasks in dentistry. Recently, alternative and contemporary medical approaches such as aromatherapy have received much attention. The potential effects of essential oils such as lavender and patchouli have been found to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and increase sedation. Thus, the study was conducted to compare the evaluation of lavender and patchouli essential oils used in aromatherapy and their effect on dental anxiety in children. Aim: To compare the efficacy of lavender and patchouli essential oils in aromatherapy and its effect on dental anxiety in children. Materials and methods: A total of 60 children between 6 and 12 years were randomly allocated to either an experimental or control group that received lavender and patchouli before dental treatment. Child anxiety was measured by using the Chotta Bheem–Chutki scale. A pulse oximeter was used to record the pulse rate. Data was tabulated and analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Results: There was a significant reduction in anxiety score and pulse rate between the intervals. Statistical differences were observed in the lavender group compared to patchouli oil. Conclusion: The positive effects of both lavender and patchouli oil on children can be used to reduce anxiety in children. In our study, lavender oil showed slightly better results than patchouli oil.

Aims: Clinical and radiographic evaluation of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), TheraCal LC, and propolis when used as an indirect pulp capping agent in primary teeth over a period of 6 months. Materials and methods: A total of 42 primary molar teeth from children aged 4–10 years were chosen for the study. The teeth were divided equally into three groups (group I: MTA, group II: light cured calcium silicate, and group III: propolis). The teeth were followed up clinically and radiographically at 3 and 6 months. The teeth that showed successful treatment outcomes clinically and radiographically were evaluated for the amount of dentin bridge formed at the end of 3 and 6 months, which was measured using CorelDRAW software. The data obtained was analyzed statistically using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. Results: The mean change in dentin thickness from baseline to 3 months in group II was found to be the highest, followed by groups I and III. The mean change in dentin thickness from 3 months to 6 months was highest in group I, followed by groups III and II. The mean change in dentin thickness from baseline to 6 months in group II was found to be significantly higher than that of group I, followed by group III. Conclusion: Clinically and radiographically, all three materials showed favorable outcomes when used as an indirect pulp capping material with significant reparative dentin formation. The highest amount of dentin deposition was recorded with light-cured calcium silicate, followed by MTA and propolis, respectively.

Context: There is a possibility of dentinal crack formation in primary teeth after root canal preparation using rotary files. Aims: To evaluate and compare the effect of ProTaper-Gold and Kedo-S rotary files on crack formation after root canal preparation in primary molars. Settings and design: A total of 120 freshly extracted mandibular primary molars (6–9 years) were randomly divided into three groups of 40 each: ProTaper-Gold, Kedo-S, and Hand H-files, respectively. Materials and methods: The roots were covered with a snuggly fitting surgical glove and stabilized in the teeth slot of a silicone mold of mandibular mixed dentition. Dental casts were obtained in a mixture of plaster of paris and sawdust. A screw system was incorporated in the cast for stabilization of the cast into the phantom head. All the root canals were instrumented in a standard operating position till 1 mm short of the radiographic apex. All roots were then stained and sectioned perpendicular to the long axis at the furcation level and 2 mm below the furcation to obtain one section per tooth. Sections were examined under a stereomicroscope at 25× magnification for any crack formations and recorded. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank and Kruskal–Wallis tests (p = 0.05). Results: The total number of cracks in terms of percentage following the use of ProTaper Gold, Kedo-S, and H-files were 35, 10, and 0%, respectively, on the upper surface and 15, 5, and 0% on the lower surface. Within the group, there was a statistically significant difference in ProTaper-Gold (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The use of ProTaper-Gold resulted in a greater number of dentinal cracks compared to Kedo-S and H-files.

Dental caries is ubiquitous and one of the most prevalent oral diseases and the foremost cause of dental pain and poor quality of life (QoL). Fluoride is an effective caries preventive agent; however, despite its use, there remain some gaps in prevention of dental caries. Arginine, an amino acid, helps to maintain a noncariogenic plaque. It shows synergistic effects with fluoride in dental caries and can help nourish the tooth by enhancing the remineralization effect of fluoride. Supplementing fluoride dentifrices with arginine can bridge the gap in caries prevention. Several clinical studies with 1.5% arginine + fluoride provide evidence for its use in prevention of dental caries. This report throws light on the benefits of arginine in dental caries and guides on its use with fluoride. Recommendations given in the report will help in effective prevention of dental caries.

Background: In primary dentition, glass ionomer cements (GICs) have unique benefits as a restorative material. Various types of GICs are available in the market. In pediatric dentistry, the choice of GI materials is generally focused on handling convenience with adequate consideration for mechanical qualities, including compressive strength to withstand occlusal stresses in the oral environment. Aim of the study: To evaluate the compressive strength of self-cure, dual-cure, and light-cure GI-based cements using a universal testing machine. Materials and methods: The study population comprised 30 cylindrical restorative blocks for compressive strength assessment. The restorative materials used for the studies were self-cure GIC (ChemFil Rock and GC Fuji IX GP Fast GIC), dual-cure GIC (Equia Forte and Ionolux GIC), and light-cure GIC (GC Fuji II LC and Ketac N 100 GIC). The cylindrical blocks were prepared using prefabricated Teflon mold measuring 4 mm diameter and 6 mm height from respective restorative materials and divided into three major groups and were subdivided into six groups comprising two materials in each group. Using an Instron universal testing machine, compressive strength was assessed. Data obtained were tabulated, and statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS v22.0) software. Results: On individual comparison of GI-based types of cement, Ketac N100 GIC showed the highest compressive strength, and Fuji IX GP Fast GIC showed the least compressive strength. Conclusion: Light-cure GIC exhibited the highest compressive strength in comparison to dual-cure and self-cure GICs with regard to the nature of curing.

Introduction: The use of information and communication technology (ICT) in education and clinical purposes is growing immensely. The usage skill, attitude of dental students, and difficulties faced by students are important concerns to be addressed. Objective: The study was designed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and skills of ICT of undergraduate dental students via assessing the ease of computer and internet use among students, the level of computer skills and training of the students, and usage pattern of computer activities. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among students of three dental colleges in Haryana using a self-designed questionnaire having sections related to demographics, devices, softwares and search engine usage, ICT skills, ICT attitude, and educational and social use. Results: The response rate was 81.96%. A total of 99.1% of the individuals responded affirmatively to the usage of mobile phones, 48.4 and 13.1% for laptops and tablets, respectively. The average duration of use of smartphones per day was 4.2121 ± 2.834 hours. Google was opted as the most popular search engine used and PubMed the least popular. Only 12.9% of participants showed a negative attitude toward the use of ICT in studies. More social use than academic use was observed. Attitude scores showed a significant correlation with the educational use of ICT (r = 0.89, p = 0.003). Conclusion: Most of the participants were well acquainted with the usage and had a positive attitude toward ICT for educational purposes. Sensitization and training in scientific literature search and basics of ICT and their practical utilization in dental education, research, and practice should be included in the curriculum.

Context: Orthopedic correction of skeletal class III malocclusion in a growing patient is crucial as it can circumvent future surgical procedures. Aims: The aim of the study is to evaluate the dental and skeletal effects of early orthodontic intervention of developing class III malocclusion. Settings and design: A final sample of 38 children in the age-group of 6–14 years having skeletal class III malocclusion was selected. Subjects were divided into two groups; group I—included 18 children (male—10, female—8) with surgically repaired cleft lip and palate and group II—20 children (male—14, female—6) without any cleft lip and palate. Materials and methods: Cemented rapid maxillary expansion (RME) appliances with 11 mm hyrax screws were used in all patients. Elastic traction forces were applied to the reverse-pull headgear worn by the patients. Both pre- and posttreatment records along with lateral cephalograms were taken. Statistical analysis used: The pre- and posttreatment mean and standard deviation measurements of the angular and linear observations were statistically analyzed with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software (version 13) and were correlated through independent t-test and paired t-test. Results: Following headgear therapy, improvement was greater in the cleft group than noncleft group with greater advancement of maxilla along with clockwise rotation of mandible in clefts. Conclusion: Protraction mechanics with expansion can be employed successfully in repaired cleft lip and palate and noncleft prepubertal children having developing class III malocclusion, showing concave profile, and retrusive maxilla. Key message: Accurate diagnosis and understanding of the individual growth pattern are crucial in the early interception of a class III malocclusion to achieve a more favorable facial profile.

Background: The eruption process is under strong genetic control, external environmental factors also significantly contribute to this process. Therefore the present study was undertaken to identify the influence of birth characteristics and feeding practices on the eruption of the first primary tooth among healthy children in Pune, Maharashtra, India. Materials and methods: The study was undertaken among 200 children aged 3–24 months. Children with any underlying conditions, those not accompanied by their mother and with neonatal teeth/natal teeth were excluded. The birth weight, gestational age, and type of delivery were obtained from medical records of the child. Data on feeding practices and the age of eruption of the first primary tooth was recorded after a structured interview of the mother followed by oral examination of the child. Gestational age was categorized into >37 weeks and <37 weeks, birth weight was divided into three groups—<1500, 1500–2500, and >2500 gm and four groups according to feeding practice during the first 6 months of life (exclusively breastfed, exclusively bottle fed, combination of breastfeeding and bottle feeding, and spoon-feeding). Results: The mean age of eruption in the study population was 9.17 months. A9.05 months in males and 9.44 in females. A statistically significant correlation was noted with gestational age, birth weight, and feeding practices. Infants with a gestational age of >37 weeks, higher birth weight and those who were exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months had an earlier eruption of first primary teeth. Conclusion: External factors seem to influence the eruption of the primary tooth. More longitudinal studies with larger sample sizes and matching confounders are needed to clearly understand the factors affecting the primary tooth eruption.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of natural sugar substitutes—stevia, jaggery, and honey on salivary pH and Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) count in saliva. Materials and methods: Children aged between 7 and 12 years with no active carious lesion were selected. A total of 80 subjects were randomly selected and divided into three experimental groups and one control group, with 20 subjects in each group. Prior to rinsing with the respective solutions, the baseline pH and S. mutans count were evaluated for each individual. All solutions were freshly prepared whenever required. After rinsing with the respective solutions, saliva samples were collected to evaluate pH and S. mutans count. The pH was analyzed at different time intervals, that is, 0 (immediately after rinsing), 15, and 30 minutes. The S. mutans count was analyzed after 30 minutes of rinsing with the respective solutions. Results: The results were tabulated and statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc tests. The results depicted that group I (stevia) showed a maximum increase in salivary pH, followed by group III (honey) and group III (jaggery) at different time intervals (0, 15, and 30 minutes). The maximum number of subjects who had shown a decrease in S. mutans count were from group III (honey), followed by group I (stevia), and group II (jaggery) after 30 minutes of rinsing with the respective solutions when compared to baseline S. mutans count. Clinical significance: It is a universally known fact that dental caries is a multifactorial disease process, one of the key factors of which is the consumption of sugar. Of all the fermentable carbohydrates, sucrose is considered the archcriminal in the carious process. Hence, this advocates the need for developing suitable sugar substitutes that help in controlling dental caries. An ideal sugar substitute should not only minimize the risk of dental caries but also should have nutritional benefits. Conclusion: Natural sugar substitutes (stevia, jaggery, and honey) have the ability to reduce caries risk in children.

Background: There is a need for innovative remineralizing gel formulations based on calcium and phosphates that can slowly release fluoride ions and enhance the formation of fluorapatite crystals that are more resistant to dissolution in an acidic environment. Aim: The aim of the work was to formulate a remineralizing agent that remineralizes enamel through the release of Ca²⁺, PO₄³⁻, and F- ions for a prolonged period of time. Materials and methods: The gel was based on carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) as a bioinspired gelling agent and on Fluoride-doped Amorphous Calcium Phosphate (F-ACP) as a remineralizing agent. This gel was tested in vitro on the enamel of extracted premolars after demineralization with methacrylic acid gel. Results: When compared to the control group and demineralized enamel group, the enamel slabs remineralized with CMC/F-ACP showed a higher calcium phosphate ratio in Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX) and better surface morphology under scanning electron microscope (SEM). Conclusion: Remineralization tests performed on demineralized human permanent teeth proved that CMC/F-ACP gel has excellent efficacy, inducing a complete remineralization of the outermost layers of enamel as well as a full restoration of lost mineral content.

Background and aim: To evaluate the association between severe early childhood caries (S-ECC), dietary preferences, and 2nd digit–4th digit (2D:4D) ratio. The objective is to contrast the detection and prevalence of dental caries in children with different sensitivity levels to the bitter taste of 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP) and its association with 2D:4D. Materials and methods: A total of 300 children below 71 months of age were assigned to two study groups—group I (caries-free) and group II (caries). PROP sensitivity test was carried out to determine the inherent genetic ability to taste a bitter or sweet substance. Evaluation of dietary preferences was carried out using a food preference questionnaire, which was completed by the parents of the children to know the child's dietary habits and their sweet, sour, and strong taste preferences. The length of the index (2D) and ring (4D) finger was measured with the help of digital vernier caliper to record the 2D:4D ratio. The data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis using Pearson's Chi-squared test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: The results suggested a positive association between S-ECC and dietary preferences but could not establish a straightforward 1:1 relation between 2D:4D ratio and S-ECC. Conclusion: An individual considered as nontaster by PROP test was a sweet liker with low 2D:4D ratio having high caries index. The association between 2D:4D ratio and S-ECC should further be explored by taking other influencing factors into consideration before arriving at a definitive conclusion.

Background: Sealants are effective in preventing and arresting pit and fissure caries. Newer brands of sealants continue to be developed despite the lack of scientifically based information addressing the caries-preventive properties of these materials. Hence, laboratory in vitro tests play a vital role in providing the necessary information regarding the efficacy of new products in a short period of time. Objectives: To compare and evaluate the viscosity, resin tag length, microleakage, and shear bond strength between conventional and hydrophilic sealants. Materials and methods: A total of 40 extracted third molars were selected. Only 20 were evaluated for microleakage and resin tag length and another 20 for shear bond strength evaluation between group I—ClinPro and group II—UltraSeal XT hydro. After sealant placement, specimens were immersed in 0.1% rhodamine dye, followed by thermocycling. Microleakage testing was done using a confocal laser scanning microscope and resin tag length evaluation using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and shear bond strength using an Universal Instron machine. Viscosity was assessed using an Anton Paar viscometer. Results were subjected to statistical analysis using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 20. Results: Viscosity and mean microleakage scores for group I (0.92 MPa and 1.50) were found to be higher than for group II (0.72 MPa and 0.60). Mean resin tag length and mean shear bond strength for group I (7.46 ± 0.95 μm and 13.71 ± 0.94 MPa) were found to be less compared to group II (10.03 ± 1.00 μm and 20.39 ± 0.98 MPa). The results were found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Group II was found to be less viscous, which resulted in the formation of resin tags of sufficient length and showed less microleakage and higher shear bond strength than group I.

Aim: Evaluating the remineralization efficacy of noncavitated proximal incipient lesions with Colgate® PreviDent® and MI™ varnishes in comparison to the industry standard (1.23%) acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel. Study design: Parallel randomized controlled, multicenter, single-blinded trial. Materials and methods: By flipping a coin, 18 patients with 91 lesions were divided into three groups. The Colgate® PreviDent (n = 33), MI varnish (n = 30), and control (APF gel) groups (n = 28) were identified as the three arms. We conducted an initial assessment and therapy as well as follow-ups at 3 and 6 months to evaluate the course of the caries lesion. Results and statistics: Caries progression was significantly reduced on treated surfaces across both groups. Nine surfaces in the Colgate® PreviDent® group with white spots and dryness did not change, one surface turned into a white patch without dryness, and another surface changed to a sound surface; only two surfaces were discontinued from treatment (restored) due to a misdiagnosis by the operator (n = 2). Nine of the surfaces in the MI™ group maintained their white patches with dryness, whereas one developed a new white patch that was not dry. Only MI varnish™-treated teeth exhibited dramatic radiographic improvement. Caries on the outside enamel were either unchanged or restored to healthy levels. Caries on the inner surface of the enamel also did not change. Conclusion: Remineralizing noncavitated early-stage lesions may be done with both MI™ and Colgate® PreviDent® varnishes. Despite this, radiographic results did not vary significantly across the three groups. In situations of rather advanced incipient caries seen on radiographs, the MI varnish™ might be recommended.

Aim: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of radiotherapy on flexural strength, microhardness, and surface roughness of bulk fill composite (X-tra fil) and glass ionomer (EQUIA Forte HT). Materials and methods: A total of 40 specimens were prepared for each test and were divided into two groups according to the material used (composite or glass ionomer cement), and each group was divided into two subgroups (n = 10) according to radiation condition, irradiated subgroup, subjected to 50 Gy by multienergy linear accelerator delivered in one shot and control subgroup. Results: Control samples of flexural strength and microhardness had a significantly higher value than irradiated samples in both materials. Regarding the surface roughness, irradiated samples had a significantly higher value than the control samples in both materials. Conclusion: Irradiation with a linear accelerator had a negative impact on the flexural strength and microhardness of both materials. Moreover, it increased the surface roughness for both materials. Bulk fill composite is the dental restorative material of choice in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy due to its high mechanical properties before and after radiation.

Background: Hypergenetic molars are uncommon in children and adolescents. Furthermore, the presence of multiple eumorphic supernumerary molars (SNMs) in children is sporadic. The author, therefore, reports a nonsyndromic case of multiple supplemental SNMs in a child. Case description: A ten year old boy primarily complaining of cheek biting was found to have six molars on the maxillary left quadrant. Following investigations and case discussion, four molars and fibroma were surgically removed under general anesthesia. Discussion: This paper discusses the prevalence and management of SNMs in the pediatric population while documenting the first case of multiple eumorphic SNMs in the mixed dentition.

Aim: This case report aims to describe the importance of early diagnosis, various clinical features, and management of radicular cyst with primary mandibular molar. Background: Radicular cyst is an odontogenic inflammatory cyst in origin seen more frequently in permanent dentition and rarely in the primary dentition. It can develop due to pulp injuries or pulp necrosis caused by deep dental caries or dental trauma. It may adversely affect the normal development and eruption of the permanent succedaneous teeth. Case description: We report a case of radicular cyst in association with the primary mandibular molar and its therapeutic management. Conclusion: The efforts in diagnosing and managing radicular cyst when associated with primary teeth hold a good impact on a child's oral health status. Good amount of bone healing and development of the succedaneous permanent tooth bud in its normal position were observed when managed appropriately. Clinical significance: Early diagnosis, proper treatment planning, appropriate management, and regular follow-ups of radicular cyst in primary dentition hold great importance for pediatric dentists as well as general dentists in routine dental practice.

Background: Central odontogenic fibroma (COF) is a rarely benign tumor with an incidence of only 0.1% among all odontogenic tumors, which commonly involve the mandible. Case description: A 9-year-old child reported with asymptomatic bony expansion of the mandible, showing an unilocular radiolucency on an orthopantomogram. The tumor was managed surgically by enucleation, and the surgical stent was placed, which was later modified as a removable functional space maintainer. The patient was followed up for 24 months with the complete healing of periapical radiolucency and the eruption of displaced permanent tooth to the proper position. Conclusion: This case report discusses the importance of the dentist in assessing and diagnosing COF, especially in the pediatric age group.

Introduction: Dental caries is a significant global public health concern in children. Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) has a significant role in the initiation and progression of dental caries. In Ayurveda, many plants are utilized to prevent caries. Licorice (mulethi), also known as Glycyrrhiza glabra and triphala are the major elements in Ayurveda with several medicinal properties. Triphala extract efficiently reduces the development of plaque on the tooth surface. Lollipops have the ability to self-clean and are effective saliva stimulators. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of licorice and triphala lollipops against S. mutans. Aim: To compare and evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of licorice and triphala lollipops on S. mutans count in children aged 4–8 years. Materials and methods: A total of three groups were made group I triphala, group II licorice, and group III placebo (sugar-free) lollipops. Children were screened at the baseline, and those who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the research after their parents submitted informed consent. Saliva samples were obtained in the early morning on an empty stomach. Then each child was offered a lollipop and saliva samples were carried out on all the follow-up days, that is, 7, 14, and 21. The palatability of lollipops among children was assessed by using a 5-point Likert scale. Results: By using multiple comparisons—Tukey's test, statistically significant difference was found between the triphala lollipop and licorice group (p = 0.0001), the triphala lollipop and placebo group (p = 0.0001), and between the licorice lollipop and placebo group (p = 0.0001) against S. mutans count. Conclusion: Both licorice and triphala lollipops had an antimicrobial effect on S. mutans count. Licorice lollipops had an enhanced antimicrobial effect compared to triphala lollipops.

Aim: To evaluate and compare acceptability and compliance toward conventional removable appliances and novel vivid pedo appliances in 5–12-year-old children. Materials and methods: A total of 46 children who required treatment with a removable appliance such as a removable orthodontic appliance, habit-breaking appliance, myofunctional appliance, or functional and nonfunctional space maintainers were randomized to either group I—a conventional removable appliance or group II—vivid pedo appliance (colorful/attractive removable appliance). After diagnosis and treatment plan, the appropriate removable appliance was fabricated using plain pink self-cure acrylic in groups I and II, and it was fabricated using clear self-cure acrylic adding colors, designs, and stickers according to the child's preference. Questionnaires were administered to evaluate the acceptability and compliance toward removable appliance therapy on the day of appliance delivery after 1 and 6 months. Result: Acceptance and compliance of vivid pedo appliance was more in children compared to conventional removable appliances. The difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: Vivid pedo appliance improved children's acceptance and compliance toward removable appliance therapy. Clinical significance: Removable appliances are an inevitable part of pediatric dentistry right from the movement of teeth, influencing tooth eruption as well as growth of jaws. The success of removable appliance therapy mostly depends on children's compliance. Therefore, the goal of this study was to ascertain how the esthetic attractiveness of an appliance influences the acceptability of a removable appliance and how it reflects on entire compliance toward removable appliance therapy.