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Microbiology Spectrum Jun 2024This study aimed to investigate the presence of antimicrobial resistance determinants (ARDs) in the Neanderthal microbiome through meticulous analysis of metagenomic...
UNLABELLED
This study aimed to investigate the presence of antimicrobial resistance determinants (ARDs) in the Neanderthal microbiome through meticulous analysis of metagenomic data derived directly from dental calculus and fecal sediments across diverse Neanderthal sites in Europe. Employing a targeted locus mapping approach followed by a consensus strategy instead of an assembly-first approach, we aimed to identify and characterize ARDs within these ancient microbial communities. A comprehensive and redundant ARD database was constructed by amalgamating data from various antibiotic resistance gene repositories. Our results highlighted the efficacy of the KMA tool in providing a robust alignment of ancient metagenomic reads to the antibiotic resistance gene database. Notably, the KMA tool identified a limited number of ARDs, with only the 23S ribosomal gene from the dental calculus sample of Neanderthal remains at Goyet Troisieme Caverne exhibiting ancient DNA (aDNA) characteristics. Despite not identifying ARDs with typical ancient DNA damage patterns or negative distance proportions, our findings suggest a nuanced identification of putative antimicrobial resistance determinants in the Neanderthal microbiome's genetic repertoire based on the taxonomy-habitat correlation. Nevertheless, our findings are limited by factors such as environmental DNA contamination, DNA fragmentation, and cytosine deamination of aDNA. The study underscores the necessity for refined methodologies to unlock the genomic assets of prehistoric populations, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics shaping the microbial landscape across history.
IMPORTANCE
The results of our analysis demonstrate the challenges in identifying determinants of antibiotic resistance within the endogenous microbiome of Neanderthals. Despite the comprehensive investigation of multiple studies and the utilization of advanced analytical techniques, the detection of antibiotic resistance determinants in the ancient microbial communities proved to be particularly difficult. However, our analysis did reveal the presence of some authentic ancient conservative genes, indicating the preservation of certain genetic elements over time. These findings raise intriguing questions about the factors influencing the presence or absence of antibiotic resistance in ancient microbial communities. It could be speculated that the spread of current antibiotic resistance, which has reached alarming levels in modern times, is primarily driven by anthropogenic factors such as the widespread use and misuse of antibiotics in medical and agricultural practices.
PubMed: 38916350
DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02662-23 -
BMC Oral Health Jun 2024The dissolution of dental calculus, safely and at home, is among the more challenging issues facing the over-the-counter healthcare industry. Pontis Biologics, Inc. has... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
The dissolution of dental calculus, safely and at home, is among the more challenging issues facing the over-the-counter healthcare industry. Pontis Biologics, Inc. has developed novel model of calculus development and structure and has formulated a dentifrice (Tartarase™) using digestive enzymes as active ingredients that is shown to dissolve dental calculus in this Proof of Principle clinical trial.
METHODS
This investigation was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel enzyme formulation to remove existing calculus deposits in 4 weeks, measured using the Volpe-Manhold Index (V-MI) on lingual surfaces of 6 lower anterior teeth. The test formulation was compared to Crest Cavity Protection, as a control dentifrice. A total of 40 randomized test subjects began the study with 20 assigned to the control dentifrice and 20 assigned to the Tartarase groups (ten each, one brushing with Tartarase twice daily and one brushed with Tartarase and wore a dental tray filled with Tartarase for 30 min then brushed again with Tartarase, once daily).
RESULTS
The Crest group experienced a 12% increase in calculus, in contrast to the results of both Tartarase groups that experienced a 40% reduction in calculus in 4 weeks of unsupervised at home use of the Tartarase toothpaste formulation.
CONCLUSIONS
This proof of principle study demonstrates that a dentifrice, formulated along the lines of the Tartarase material, is capable of combating calculus accumulation using the same oral hygiene habits that are common worldwide.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
This trial was registered retrospectively at clinicaltrials.gov and has the Unique Identification Number: NCT06139835, 14/11/2023.
Topics: Humans; Dental Calculus; Female; Adult; Male; Dentifrices; Middle Aged; Toothbrushing; Proof of Concept Study
PubMed: 38909189
DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04498-x -
American Journal of Veterinary Research Jun 2024To evaluate the dental abnormalities by visually assessing the labial and buccal photographs in dogs and cats and analyze their prevalence based on age and breed.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the dental abnormalities by visually assessing the labial and buccal photographs in dogs and cats and analyze their prevalence based on age and breed.
ANIMALS
1,096 client-owned dogs and 775 client-owned cats.
METHODS
Data were collected from patients who visited 26 private veterinary clinics from January to December 2022. Each animal was evaluated through dental photographs taken from the labial and buccal sides. Correlations between the prevalence of the identified dental abnormalities and age, craniofacial type, and breed, were analyzed.
RESULTS
Calculus, discoloration, epulis, fractured teeth, gingival recession, gingivitis, malocclusion, missing teeth, and persistent deciduous teeth could be identified by analyzing the dental photographs in both dogs and cats. Enamel defects in dogs and tooth resorption in cats could be identified. Brachycephalic dogs had a significantly higher prevalence of malocclusion (OR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.36 to 2.75) and missing teeth (OR, 3.63; 95% CI, 2.71 to 4.91) compared to nonbrachycephalic dogs. Brachycephalic cats had a significantly higher prevalence of fractured teeth (OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.24 to 3.04) and a lower prevalence of gingival recession (OR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.15 to 0.55) compared to nonbrachycephalic cats. Calculus, persistent deciduous teeth, and possibly gingivitis could be identified in dogs and cats by analyzing labial and buccal photographs. The assessment of some dental abnormalities such as fractured teeth, missing teeth, and tooth resorption can be limited without a complete dental examination under anesthesia.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Although the assessment of dental conditions may be underestimated, the data on the prevalence of the dental abnormalities evaluated through the photographs could be utilized for screening dental diseases.
PubMed: 38901457
DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.24.03.0085 -
Arquivos Brasileiros de Cirurgia... 2024Bariatric surgery can cause oral health problems in individuals, such as an increase in dental caries, periodontal diseases and dental erosion, which can be avoided if... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
Bariatric surgery can cause oral health problems in individuals, such as an increase in dental caries, periodontal diseases and dental erosion, which can be avoided if oral health promotion actions are implemented.
AIMS
To assess the impact of an oral health promotion program implemented among gastroplasty patients.
METHODS
This randomized clinical trial involved 208 patients undergoing gastroplasty; they were divided into two groups: Intervention Group, with participation in the Oral Health Promotion Program for Bariatric Patients, or Control Group. Assessments were carried out preoperatively, and six and 12 months postoperatively. The oral conditions assessed were: dental caries, periodontal diseases, tooth wear, dental plaque, and salivary flow. Sociodemographic information was obtained through application of structured questionnaires. For data analysis, the Chi-Square, Fisher's Exact, and Mann-Whitney tests were performed - α=5%.
RESULTS
Patients in the Intervention Group, when compared to those in the Control Group, presented: fewer changes in enamel (6M: p<0.0001; 12M: p=0.001), in dentin (6M: p<0.0001; 12M: p<0.0001), moderate tooth wear (6M=0.002; 12M=0.005), gingival bleeding (6M: p<0.0001), dental calculus (6M=0.002; 12M: p=0.03), periodontal pocket 4-5 mm (6M=0.001; 12M: p=<0.0001); greater reduction in the bacterial plaque index (6M: p<0.0001; 12M: p<0.0001), and increased salivary flow (6M: p=0.019).
CONCLUSIONS
The oral health promotion program had a positive impact on the prevention and control of the main problems to the oral health of the gastroplasty patients.
Topics: Humans; Male; Oral Health; Female; Gastroplasty; Middle Aged; Adult; Health Promotion
PubMed: 38896700
DOI: 10.1590/0102-6720202400011e1804 -
Journal of Pharmacy & Bioallied Sciences Apr 2024The occupational stressors has an effect on overall health and dental health. Oral health is a vital aspect of general health. The current study was performed to assess...
The occupational stressors has an effect on overall health and dental health. Oral health is a vital aspect of general health. The current study was performed to assess the periodontitis among thermal power station workers in South India. Pilot study was done for 52 mine workers and based on the periodontal disease prevalence among them, the sample size was calculated as 603 subjects. The data collection was done using WHO 1997 proforma. Among the total study population, about 92 (30%) thermal power station 1 workers and 83 (28.1%) thermal power station 2 workers had pocket 4-5 mm, one (0.2%) thermal power station, 2 worker had pocket 6 mm or more thermal power station I workers, and 23 (7.8%) thermal power station 2 workers had 6 - 8 mm attachment loss. Only 1 (0.3%) thermal power station I worker had 9 - 11 mm attachment loss. In the current study, nearly 70% mine workers had calculus, nearly 30% had pocket 4-5 mm, and only 0.2% Mine II workers had pocket measuring 6 mm or more.
PubMed: 38882721
DOI: 10.4103/jpbs.jpbs_716_23 -
Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry Jun 2024This study investigated the magnitude, direction, and temporal aspects of the force applied during instrumentation with a piezoelectric ultrasonic periodontal scaler,...
PURPOSE
This study investigated the magnitude, direction, and temporal aspects of the force applied during instrumentation with a piezoelectric ultrasonic periodontal scaler, compared this force with recommendations in the literature, and assessed the influence of the profession (dentist or dental hygienist) and calculus hardness.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The force applied by ten dental hygienists and six dentists during debridement of comparatively soft and hard artificial dental calculus with a piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler was recorded in-vitro. The total force and its components in three axes were statistically analysed.
RESULTS
During debridement of soft artificial dental calculus, the mean total force applied by dental hygienists was 0.34 N (± 0.18 N, range: 0.13 N to 0.59 N) and by dentists 0.28 N (± 0.33 N, range: 0.06 N to 0.95 N), and the total force exceeded 0.5 N approximately 23% and 14% of the time for dental hygienists and dentists, respectively. During debridement of hard artificial dental calculus, the mean total force applied by dental hygienists was 0.63 N (± 0.40 N, range: 0.28 N to 1.64 N) and by dentists 0.57 N (± 0.17 N, range: 0.34 N to 0.76 N); the total force exceeded 0.5 N more than half of the time for both professions. On average, dental hygienists applied 1.85x (p = 0.04) and dentists 2.04x (p = 0.06) higher force on hard than on soft artificial calculus. However, dental hygienists and dentists used similar forces during the debridement of both hard (p = 1.00) and soft (p = 0.26) calculus.
CONCLUSION
The force applied during the debridement of hard artificial dental calculus was statistically significantly higher than during the debridement of soft artificial dental calculus. No statistically significant difference between dentists and dental hygienists was found. The force applied by both groups on soft and hard artificial dental calculus frequently exceeded recommended values.
Topics: Dental Calculus; Humans; Dental Scaling; Dental Hygienists; Periodontal Debridement; Dentists; Hardness; In Vitro Techniques; Ultrasonic Therapy
PubMed: 38864381
DOI: 10.3290/j.ohpd.b5458595 -
Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry Jun 2024This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of a newly developed oral simulator for nursing students' oral assessment education on oral diseases and symptoms.
PURPOSE
This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of a newly developed oral simulator for nursing students' oral assessment education on oral diseases and symptoms.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The participants were first-year students (n=105) at a nursing school in Japan. Ten identical oral simulators with angular cheilitis, missing teeth, dental caries, calculus, periodontitis, hypoglossal induration, food debris, and crust formation were created by a team of dentists. After a 45-minute lecture programme for oral assessment performance with the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT), the ability test with the simulators and the OHAT as well as test feedback were conducted in a 30-minute practical programme. To evaluate the effectiveness of the programmes, questionnaires and ability tests with slides of oral images were conducted at baseline and after the programme.
RESULTS
Ninety-nine students (94.3%) participated in this study. The results of the ability test with the simulators and the OHAT in the practical programme showed that the correct answer rates of assessing tongue, gingiva, present teeth, and oral pain were less than 40%. Their levels of confidence, perception, and oral assessment performance were statistically significantly higher after the programmes than they were at baseline. Their level of confidence in assessing the need for dental referral had the largest increase in scores compared to the lowest scores at baseline in the nine post-programme assessment categories.
CONCLUSIONS
This study identified several problems with nursing students' oral assessment skills and improvements of their oral assessment confidence, perceptions and performance.
Topics: Humans; Mouth Diseases; Health Education, Dental; Program Evaluation; Clinical Competence; Female; Male; Educational Measurement; Oral Health; Young Adult; Diagnosis, Oral; Education, Nursing; Simulation Training
PubMed: 38864379
DOI: 10.3290/j.ohpd.b5458567 -
Journal of Orthodontics Jun 2024New technologies have paved the way for newer fabrication techniques, such as rapid prototyping, which has gained popularity in the fabrication of several orthodontic...
BACKGROUND
New technologies have paved the way for newer fabrication techniques, such as rapid prototyping, which has gained popularity in the fabrication of several orthodontic appliances including retainers.
AIM
To evaluate the stability, survival time and periodontal health associated with vacuum-formed retainers (VFRs), bonded retainers (BRs) and rapid prototype retainers (RPRs) over a period of 12 months in retention.
STUDY DESIGN
Prospective clinical study.
METHODS
A total of 72 participants completing fixed orthodontic treatment were allocated to the following three groups by the investigators based upon their initial malocclusion, compliant and preferences: VFR; BR; and RPR. The primary outcome was Little's Irregularity Index (LII). Other stability parameters, including arch length (AL), inter-canine width (ICW) and inter-molar width (IMW), were also assessed immediately after debonding (T0) and 12 months (T2) after debonding. In addition, survival time, and calculus index and gingival index (GI) were assessed.
RESULTS
LII showed a significant difference ( = 0.00) between the groups and was increased in the VFR group (0.18 ± 0.22 mm) compared to the BR (0.03 ± 0.05 mm) and RPR (0.01 ± 0.03 mm) groups but was not clinically significant. The mean survival time of maxillary retainers was longest for the RPR group (220.63 days; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 194.1-247.16) but there was no significant difference between the three groups ( = 0.43). The mean survival time of mandibular retainers was higher and the same for the VFR and RPR groups (240 days; 95% CI = 240-240) and there was no significant difference between the three groups ( = 0.38). The calculus index score ( = 0.00) was statistically significant between the groups, with an increased score for the BR group (0.33 ± 0.27) compared to the VFR (0.07 ± 0.16) and RPR (0.13 ± 0.22) groups. Similarly, the GI score ( = 0.02) was statistically significant between the groups and was increased in the BR group (0.01 ± 0.19) compared to the VFR (-0.15 ± 0.18) and RPR (-0.06 ± 0.15) groups. The increase in calculus index and GI scores for the BR group were not clinically significant.
CONCLUSION
There were no clinically significant differences between the three retainer groups in terms of stability, periodontal health and time to failure.
PubMed: 38859624
DOI: 10.1177/14653125241255702 -
Cureus May 2024Peripheral ossifying fibroma (POF) is a reactive overgrowth that most commonly occurs on the gingiva. It is a benign oral soft tissue tumour. It is most commonly found...
Peripheral ossifying fibroma (POF) is a reactive overgrowth that most commonly occurs on the gingiva. It is a benign oral soft tissue tumour. It is most commonly found on the anterior maxilla and has a female predilection. Most commonly found to occur in the second decade of life. This type of lesion originates from the cells of the periodontal ligament. It is often associated with trauma or local irritants, such as subgingival plaque and calculus, dental appliances and poor-quality dental restorations. This entity requires a proper treatment protocol and a regular follow-up. It can cause significant discomfort and irritation in the oral health if left untreated. The recurrence rate of the lesion varies according to the authors. This case report describes a case of POF in an adult female patient which was treated using surgical excision resulting in an uneventful healing during the post-operative period.
PubMed: 38841021
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59749 -
Journal of Veterinary Dentistry May 2024Periodontal disease in dogs is common. Client compliance with oral hygiene and oral care for pets is low. The gold standard is annual dental prophylaxis under general...
Periodontal disease in dogs is common. Client compliance with oral hygiene and oral care for pets is low. The gold standard is annual dental prophylaxis under general anesthesia with imaging followed by home care including daily brushing. Clients should be offered methods to reduce calculus, plaque, gingivitis, and resulting halitosis that are time efficient, cost-effective, and easy to administer between annual preventative dental prophylaxis with the goal to move into maintenance phase of managing periodontal disease. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a honeycomb-shaped dental chew in reducing hardened calculus, plaque, gingivitis, and malodor in client-owned dogs in their normal home environment including various breeds, skull types, ages, and weights. Calculus, plaque, and gingival scores with volatile sulfur compounds readings were performed under sedation and evaluated under general anesthesia after 60 consecutive days of receiving a daily honeycomb-shaped dental chew treat. There was an overall statistically significant percentage reduction of calculus (26.6%), plaque (14.2%), and malodor (46.71%). Gingival scores did not demonstrate statistically significant reduction (0.99%). Use of this honeycomb-shaped daily dental chew significantly reduced calculus, plaque, and associated malodor in dogs when fed consecutively for 60 days.
PubMed: 38819379
DOI: 10.1177/08987564241255043