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National Journal of Maxillofacial... 2024The diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma [OSCC] and its treatment phase is emotionally demanding for the patient and challenging for the surgeon. The induction of...
Effect of meditation and relaxation therapy on preoperative anxiety and stress in oral squamous cell carcinoma patients scheduled for oral and maxillofacial surgery: An experimental study.
CONTEXT
The diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma [OSCC] and its treatment phase is emotionally demanding for the patient and challenging for the surgeon. The induction of stress and anxiety is unavoidable in these patients. It becomes very important for the patient to have psychological as well as physical stability during this treatment phase. Various studies have reported the beneficial effect of meditation along with relaxation therapy on healthy individuals but the beneficial effect of meditation and relaxation therapy [MRT] to reduce stress and anxiety preoperatively in OSCC patients has not been reported in scientific literature.
AIM
The aim of this study was to study the effect of MRT on preoperative anxiety and stress in OSCC patients undergoing for oral and maxillofacial surgery.
SETTINGS AND DESIGN
An experimental, parallel study design was carried out with randomization of patients into experimental[25] and control group[25] with allocation ratio 1:1 in 50 patients diagnosed with OSCC [stage II or III] scheduled for oral and maxillofacial surgery with general anesthesia.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The biopsy which was the prerequisite for the diagnosis was taken. Twenty-one days before surgery in experimental group, patients were oriented about meditation and relaxation exercises. The reorientation of MRT was done from the day of admission twice a day till the day of surgery. Physiological parameters for stress and anxiety like heart rate [HR], blood pressure [BP], pulse rate [PR], and respiratory rate [RR] were evaluated on 1 day of MRT at 9 am and on the day of surgery. The serum cortisol which was quantitative parameter for stress was evaluated 1 day of MRT at 9 am fasting and on the day of surgery. The qualitative analysis for anxiety was done preoperatively using visual analog scale on the 1 day before MRT and compared with the values on the day of surgery after MRT at a specific time.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
Paired -test analysis was used intragroup whereas unpaired -test was used intergroup between experimental and control groups with significance at = 0.05 and highly significant at = 0.0001.
RESULTS
The serum cortisol was significantly less in the experimental group over control group with t = 7.04 and = 0.0001. The systolic and diastolic BP, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and anxiety in the experimental group reported significantly less rate compared to the control group with t = 5.66, t = 22.2, t = 11.93, t = 27.71, and = 0.0001.
CONCLUSION
In our study, MRT in the form of Sukhasana, Anulom Vilom, Omkar chanting, and Shavasana for 30 min twice daily has shown positive effect to reduce stress and anxiety. The serum cortisol as a quantitative parameter has been effectively evaluated in this benchmark study.
PubMed: 38690234
DOI: 10.4103/njms.njms_123_22 -
National Journal of Maxillofacial... 2024Mental distress is highly reported in cancer patients, resulting in anxiety and depression most of the time. Both conditions, in turn, are recognized to be related to...
INTRODUCTION
Mental distress is highly reported in cancer patients, resulting in anxiety and depression most of the time. Both conditions, in turn, are recognized to be related to dental fear in adults; however, there are no studies on patients suffering from head and neck cancer. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate whether newly diagnosed patients with head and neck cancer are more prone to self-reported dental fear.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
This dual-center cross-sectional study was conducted with 25 healthy outpatients and 25 patients with a recent diagnosis of head and neck cancer, all requiring dental care. The patients were informed at the first appointment about their dental therapy planning and the Brazilian Portuguese Version of the Dental Fear Survey (DFS) questionnaire was then applied after appropriate instructions.
RESULTS
The DFS total scores did not differ statistically between the groups (Mann-Whitney U test, = 0,120) but the Cancer Group presented a slightly higher mean score (32.2 ± 10.0) than the Control Group (30.0 ± 14.2).
CONCLUSION
Within the limitations of this study, newly diagnosed patients with head and neck cancer and healthy individuals seem to experience similar self-reported dental fear.
PubMed: 38690231
DOI: 10.4103/njms.njms_119_22 -
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) Apr 2024Research into the relationship between occupation and dental fear and anxiety (DFA) is scarce. This exploratory study aimed to compare the level of DFA and its...
Research into the relationship between occupation and dental fear and anxiety (DFA) is scarce. This exploratory study aimed to compare the level of DFA and its association with its predictors amongst adults from different occupational groups. A cross-sectional study with 422 respondents from four occupational groups (physicians, teachers, industry workers, and artists) was carried out. A questionnaire on previous dental experience using the Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS), Dental Fear Survey (DFS), and Self-Esteem Scale was self-administered electronically. The data analysis involved descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling (SEM). The DFA levels differed significantly across the occupational groups, with the lowest mean scores among physicians (DAS = 9.29 (SE 0.39); DFS-1 = 14.67 (0.63); DFS-2 = 33.94 (1.69)) and the highest mean scores among artists (DAS = 10.74 (0.38); DFS-1 = 17.19 (0.71); DFS-2 = 41.34 (1.92)). A significant impact of self-esteem on DFA was observed among physicians, teachers, and artists, but not among industry workers. Multi-group analysis with SEM revealed differences in the variable association (Chi-squared = 53.75; df = 21; < 0.001), thus rejecting the hypothesis of the same mechanism underlying DFA across occupational groups. Individuals from various occupations experience DFA at different levels, and there are different mechanisms underlying their DFA. These findings can provide valuable insights for dental practitioners in developing tailored approaches to reduce the feeling of DFA of their patients.
Topics: Humans; Dental Anxiety; Female; Cross-Sectional Studies; Male; Adult; Surveys and Questionnaires; Middle Aged; Occupations; Self Concept
PubMed: 38674320
DOI: 10.3390/medicina60040674 -
Journal of Lifestyle Medicine Feb 2024The relationship between psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) and oral health has recently garnered increasing attention due to the intricate interaction among psychological... (Review)
Review
The relationship between psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) and oral health has recently garnered increasing attention due to the intricate interaction among psychological factors, the nervous system, immune responses, and oral diseases. This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the multifaceted connections between PNI and various oral conditions and conduct an in-depth analysis. Psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, have been linked to oral microbiome alterations and immune function and the development and progression of oral diseases, such as periodontal disorders, oral ulcers, and temporomandibular disorders. Conversely, oral health conditions, particularly chronic periodontitis, have been associated with systemic inflammation, affecting mental health and overall well-being through neuroendocrine-immune pathways. Moreover, neural mechanisms, including the brain-gut axis and the autonomic nervous system, significantly influenced oral health through immune modulation and inflammatory responses. Understanding these complex interactions has implications for therapeutic interventions that target both psychological well-being and oral health outcomes. This review synthesizes current research findings from various disciplines, including immunology, neuroscience, dentistry, and psychology, to offer a comprehensive understanding of the bidirectional relationship between PNI and oral diseases. The implications of these interactions on treatment strategies, preventive measures, and interdisciplinary approaches underscore the need for integrated healthcare models that address psychological and oral health aspects to improve outcomes and quality of life in patients.
PubMed: 38665319
DOI: 10.15280/jlm.2024.14.1.13 -
World Journal of Psychiatry Apr 2024Oral implant surgery is an effective procedure for artificial implants in missing tooth areas under local anesthesia. Because patients under local anesthesia are...
BACKGROUND
Oral implant surgery is an effective procedure for artificial implants in missing tooth areas under local anesthesia. Because patients under local anesthesia are conscious during this procedure, compared with general anesthesia-related operations, they are more likely to experience negative emotions, such as anxiety and tension. These emotional reactions result in shivering and chills in the limbs, leading to poor doctor-patient cooperation and even avoidance of treatment. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed that acupoint massage regulates blood and Qi, dredge menstruation, and relieve pain, which is beneficial for patients' emotional adjustment; however, there are few related clinical studies.
AIM
To observe the changes in anxiety and pain in patients with oral implant after acupoint massage combined with touch therapy.
METHODS
One hundred patients undergoing oral implantation in our hospital between May 2020 and May 2023 were randomly divided into control and study groups, according to a random number table, with 50 patients in each group. The control group received routine intervention, and the study group received acupoint massage combined with touch on the basis of the control group. Anxiety [assessed using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS)], pain severity, blood pressure, heart rate, and satisfaction were compared between the two groups.
RESULTS
Before intervention, the difference in MDAS score between the two groups was not significant ( > 0.05), while after the intervention, the MDAS scores decreased in both groups compared with those before the intervention ( < 0.05); the MDAS score of the study group was lower than that of the control group, with a statistically significant difference ( < 0.05). The degree of pain in the intervention group was significantly lower than that in the control group ( < 0.05). Before the intervention, there were no significant differences in systolic and diastolic blood pressures or heart rate between the two groups ( > 0.05). The systolic and diastolic blood pressures and heart rate in the intervention group, during and after the intervention, were significantly lower than those in the control group ( < 0.05). The total degree of satisfaction in the study group was significantly higher than that in the control group ( < 0.05).
CONCLUSION
Acupoint massage combined with touch better relieves anxiety and pain in patients undergoing dental implant surgery, improving the perioperative comfort of these patients and ensuring safety and a smooth operation.
PubMed: 38659606
DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v14.i4.533 -
BMC Medical Education Apr 2024This research evaluated whether the relationships between factors of resilience, self-esteem, depression, and anxiety in dental students with changes in teaching and...
BACKGROUND
This research evaluated whether the relationships between factors of resilience, self-esteem, depression, and anxiety in dental students with changes in teaching and learning methods. We also studied the psychological impact of face-to-face lectures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
METHODS
This cross-sectional descriptive study used Google Forms to collect data with the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE), Connor-Davidson Risk Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI and BDI-II). An open-ended question was also asked about important learning difficulties.
RESULTS
The analysis revealed very high levels of resilience (30.23 ± 5.84), self-esteem in the normal range (29.08 ± 4.03), minimal depression levels (12.32 ± 8.05), and low anxiety levels (17.20 ± 12.41). There were no significant differences between sociodemographic variables ranges in regard to all psychological questionnaires. No high levels of depression and anxiety were found.
CONCLUSIONS
The levels were low compared to other studies in which online teaching was used, which is explained by the fact that the students retained adequate resilience and self-esteem thanks to being able to contact teachers and, above all, their own peers.
Topics: Humans; COVID-19; Resilience, Psychological; Cross-Sectional Studies; Students, Dental; Female; Male; Self Concept; Depression; Anxiety; Young Adult; Adult; Education, Dental; Pandemics; Education, Distance; SARS-CoV-2; Surveys and Questionnaires
PubMed: 38658926
DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05445-8 -
BMC Public Health Apr 2024There are reports of poor working conditions for early and mid-career academics (EMCAs) in universities, however, empirical data using validated tools are scarce. We...
There are reports of poor working conditions for early and mid-career academics (EMCAs) in universities, however, empirical data using validated tools are scarce. We conducted an online, cross-sectional survey using validated tools to assess workplace satisfaction, exposure to workplace abuse, and mental health. Participants included employees of medical and health faculties of two of the largest Australian universities, surveyed between October 2020 and January 2021.Overall, 284 participants responded. Many reported job insecurity: half (50.7%) working on contracts with less than one remaining year. Workloads were considerable, with 89.5% of participants working overtime and 54.8% reporting burnout. Workplace abuse in the forms of bullying (46.6%), sexual harassment (25.3%), sexism (49.8%) and racism (22.5%) were commonly reported. Clinically significant symptoms of depression (28.0%), anxiety (21.7%) and suicidal ideation or self-harm (13.6%) were reported; with a higher prevalence among those working more overtime, and those exposed to workplace abuse. Priorities include providing a stable and safe workplace, increasing accountability and transparency in addressing workplace abuse, and supporting professional development.In summary, EMCAs in our study were commonly exposed to precarious employment conditions and workplace abuse. Our findings provide empirical evidence on where universities and funding bodies should direct resources and change organisational risk factors, to improve workplace culture.
Topics: Humans; Cross-Sectional Studies; Male; Female; Adult; Australia; Workplace; Organizational Culture; Middle Aged; Universities; Mental Health; Bullying; Surveys and Questionnaires; Burnout, Professional; Job Satisfaction; Sexual Harassment
PubMed: 38654184
DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18556-0 -
PeerJ 2024Gas expansion in body cavities due to pressure changes at high altitudes can cause barodontalgia. This condition may compromise flight safety.
BACKGROUND
Gas expansion in body cavities due to pressure changes at high altitudes can cause barodontalgia. This condition may compromise flight safety.
AIM
To investigate relationships among barodontalgia awareness, dental visit frequency, and barodontalgia prevalence in civilian and military pilots operating at high altitudes.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Civilian pilots from Turkish Airlines and military pilots from the Turkish Air Force, flying between November 2022 and January 2023, participated in this study. A 20-question survey was administered to 750 pilots, covering topics such as barodontalgia awareness, dental visit frequency, breaks after dental treatments, in-flight pain, and pain type and severity. The voluntary surveys were distributed by email.
RESULTS
Of the 750 pilots, 526 completed the survey; 61% were aware of barodontalgia, and 81% of pilots who had experienced it reported pain at altitudes <2000 feet. The study revealed higher barodontalgia awareness among pilots who had experienced it, with the highest prevalence among jet pilots. Pilots with barodontalgia also showed a higher frequency of dental visits ( < 0.001). Additionally, this group reported more frequent interruption of flight due to dental treatment (IFDT), more problems experienced in flights after treatment (PFAT), and higher instances of bruxism or teeth clenching during flight, suggesting stress and anxiety ( < 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
Barodontalgia, a type of pain linked to stress, significantly impacts pilot performance, and can threaten flight safety, even at lower altitudes. Thus, there is a need to educate pilots about stress management, barodontalgia awareness, and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
Topics: Humans; Turkey; Altitude; Prevalence; Male; Adult; Military Personnel; Surveys and Questionnaires; Toothache; Pilots; Dental Care; Aerospace Medicine; Female; Middle Aged
PubMed: 38650648
DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17290 -
Cureus Mar 2024Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a multifaceted disorder impacting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), causing substantial discomfort and functional limitations. This... (Review)
Review
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a multifaceted disorder impacting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), causing substantial discomfort and functional limitations. This systematic review aims to comprehensively assess the effectiveness of non-invasive treatment modalities for TMJ dysfunction, prioritizing a definitive protocol to ensure patient safety and enhance quality of life. Employing the PRISMA guidelines, we meticulously analyzed 20 studies from a pool of 1,417 articles sourced from databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Medline. These studies underscore the multifarious nature of TMD and the varied responses to treatments such as physical therapy, laser therapy, ultrasound and electrical stimulation, splint therapy, injections, and arthrocentesis. Notably, the review highlights the paramount importance of precise diagnosis, often through surface electromyography, followed by a tailored treatment approach integrating manual therapy, counseling, and splint therapy. The systematic analysis revealed that while certain treatments such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and low-level laser therapy showed limited efficacy, combination therapies, especially those involving manual therapy, counseling, and splint therapy, demonstrated substantial improvement in reducing pain, depression, and anxiety. The findings advocate for a non-invasive, patient-centric approach, emphasizing education and symptom management before considering more invasive procedures such as injections and arthrocentesis. The review identifies the need for more comprehensive, longitudinal studies to establish a standardized, evidence-based treatment protocol for TMJ dysfunction, aiming to improve patient outcomes holistically.
PubMed: 38646388
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56713