Parental Age and Severity of Non-Syndromic Orofacial Clefts: Relationship with De Novo Mutations

Background: This study investigates the relationship between paternal and maternal age, and the severity of orofacial clefts and the presence of de novo mutations in children. Methods: This was a retrospective study of individuals who were diagnosed with non-syndromic cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) and their unaffected parents, from 2012 to 2019. We obtained data from the AfriCRAN project database for Nigerians with non-syndromic orofacial clefts. These individuals were recruited at the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos. Results: There was no statistically significant association between type of CL ± P and parental age in young fathers (p = 0.93). When older fathers were considered, the percentage of complete (more severe) CL ± P cases increased, especially when they were married to older mothers, and this was statistically significant (p = 0.036). In older fathers, the risk of CL ± P in their offspring was increased (OR: 2.66, CI: 1.04-6.80), and there was also an increased risk of developing right-sided CL ± P (OR: 1.61, CI: 1.0-2.59). There was a reduced risk of isolated clefts of the soft palate in younger fathers (OR: 0.36, CI: 0.07–1.71), but the risk increased when considering complete types (more severe) of isolated clefts of the hard and soft palates (OR: 1.63, CI: 0.7–1.7). There was an increase in de novo mutation in children as the difference between paternal and maternal age increased. Conclusion: The study showed that a higher risk of CL ± P and de novo mutations in children is associated with increased parental age

Correlation Between Skin Color and Tooth Shade in the Pediatric Population

Background: The dental literature has well documented the relationship between tooth color and skin tone, with studies focusing primarily on adults. To our knowledge, no study has been conducted in the pediatric/adolescent population. This study investigated the relationship between tooth and skin color in the pediatric/adolescent population. Methods: This study was conducted on children and adolescents undergoing dental treatment at the Queen Fabiola Children\u27s Hospital in Brussels. The study included subjects with fully erupted right maxillary central incisors. A spectrophotometer was used to select the shade; after the measurement procedure was initiated, the tooth shade was recorded twice with \u27L,\u27 \u27a, and \u27b\u27 values before dental treatment. Skin color was measured according to the Fitzpatrick scale. Results: Regarding gender, a significant inverse correlation was observed between a* parameter and gender. According to the Fitzpatrick scale, there was a significant inverse correlation (P<0.0001) between a* and b* parameters and skin color. There was a linear correlation (P<0.01) between the L* parameter and skin color. There was no significant difference between boys and girls. Conclusion: In the existing literature, more studies are needed to demonstrate a direct correlation between skin color and tooth color in children and adolescents. Our research delves into this unexplored area and reveals intriguing findings suggesting a possible association. Especially in certain genetic cases, our study underscores the importance of considering this correlation. The data collected and analyzed in our research sheds light on the relationship between skin color and tooth color and advocates exploring this alternative perspective. This groundbreaking finding opens avenues for further investigation into the complex relationship between genetics, skin pigmentation, and dental characteristics, providing valuable insights for practitioners and researchers alike.

Comparative Efficacy of Biodentine® and Calcium Hydroxide in Pulp Capping Treatment: BIODENTINE® AND CALCIUM HYDROXIDE IN PULP CAPPING

Background: This study is focused on — Assessing Biodentine and Calcium hydroxide in indirect pulp capping procedures. Various materials have been used in indirect pulp capping but this comparative study may help appreciate which material produces better results: Biodentine or Calcium hydroxide. Objective: To compare treatment outcomes post indirect pulp capping treatment using Biodentine® and Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) . Materials and Methods: A blinded, randomized clinical control trial involving 50 consenting subjects, comparing Biodentine® (test) and Ca(OH)2 (control). Cavity preparation was done and the cavity was dressed with either Biodentine® or Ca(OH)2 and then restored with Glass ionomer cement. The subjects’ teeth were later examined clinically and radiographically at 3, 6, and 9 months post treatment. The indicators of clinical success were absence of pain, swellings, sinus, fistula, abscess, mobility, tenderness to percussion, normal response to electric pulp tester, and Endo-ice cold test. The indicator of radiographic success was absence of periapical pathosis. The probability level of p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: The success rate at three months was 100% for both groups; at six months, it was 92% for both groups and at nine months, 92% of subjects were successful in the Biodentine® group while the Ca(OH)2 group recorded 88% which was statistically insignificant (P=0.74). Conclusion: Biodentine® and Calcium hydroxide have shown comparable effectiveness in improving treatment outcomes, thus, contributing to the longevity of the teeth, and the period of optimum efficaciousness of the pulp capping materials in this study was three months.

Effects of Prednisolone and Kotase on Post-Disimpaction Sequelae of Mandibular Third Molars in General Hospital, Lagos: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background The sequelae of surgical disimpaction of mandibular third  molars negatively impact patients\u27 quality of life in the  immediate post-operative period. Some clinicians have  shown reluctance to use steroids in oral surgery, though  they provide excellent control of the postoperative  inflammatory triad following third molar disimpaction.  Kotase, a fixed-dose combination of two enzymes  (Bromelain and Trypsin), has also been effective in  reducing postoperative inflammation. Methods We conducted a randomized controlled trial at the General  Hospital, Lagos Island. Eighty-four participants were  randomized into two treatment groups: Prednisolone and  Kotase. Pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale  (VAS). Facial swelling was measured using linear  distances from the tragus to pogonion, tragus to the angle  of the mouth, and gonial angle to the lateral canthus of the  eye. Trismus was measured using a pair of dividers. Data  were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Chi-square and  Student\u27s t-tests were used for comparisons, with p < 0.05  considered significant. Results The socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of  participants were similar in both groups. The highest  intensity of sequelae occurred on the first postoperative  day in both groups. Pain was not statistically significant (t  = 0.067, p = 0.946). Facial volumetric variation in the  tragus–oral commissure plane (t = 0.369, p = 0.713),  tragus–pogonion plane (t = 0.959, p = 0.341), and outer canthus–gonial plane (t = 1.523, p = 0.132) showed no  significant differences. Trismus was also not statistically  significant (t = 0.890, p = 0.376). Conclusion Kotase was observed to be as effective as prednisolone in  mitigating postoperative inflammatory sequelae  following mandibular third molar disimpaction

Radiographic Study of the Prevalence and Pattern of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars in a Northern Nigerian Population.

Background: The incidence of impacted mandibular and maxillary third molars has become a global public health concern. This study reports a radiographic prevalence and pattern of impacted mandibular third molars among a Nigerian population. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and pattern of impacted mandibular third molars in a Northern Nigeria population. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Oral Diagnostic Sciences Department of the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Kano, Kano State, Nigeria. Digital diagnostic images of patients of record on Planmeca Promax® within the sampling frame and acquired during the two years under review, were included in the study. The images were analyzed on Planmeca Romexis 4.3.0 R software to identify relevant study variables. Descriptive statistics was done using SPSS for windows software version 23.0 (IBM, Chicago IL., USA). Also, Pearson’s Chi‑square (χ2) statistical test was applied while confidence interval and P-value were set at 95% and ≤0.05, respectively. Results: A total of 4,932 pantomographs were reviewed and 576 were selected for the study. There were 824 impacted mandibular third molars within the age range of 18-65 years (mean age±SD = 32.67±9.69). 297 (51.6%) were males, and 279 (48.4%) were females. The prevalence of impacted mandibular third molar was 16.71%. Impacted mandibular third molar occurred more frequently in the 26-35 years age range. The most frequent angle of impaction was horizontal, followed by mesioangular, and the least frequent angulation was distoangular. Conclusion: The prevalence and pattern of impacted third molars among Northern Nigeria population are almost similar to other racial populations with minor variations, and the prevalence decreases with increasing age. A proper radiographic evaluation of the patterns of third molars impaction is, therefore, essential to assist dental surgeons in making decisions with regard to surgical planning and treatment. Key Words: Impacted teeth, panoramic radiograph, third molar.

Endodontic Management of a Mandibular Second Premolar With Two Roots and Four Canals: A Case Report

A detailed understanding of root canal morphology is essential for successful root canal, mandibular second premolar usually consists of a single root with a single root canal but two roots with multiple canals has been reported. This study aims to bring to attention such variations in root and canal numbers and a successful, nonsurgical endodontic management of mandibular left second premolar with two separate roots and four distinct root canals. Tooth was tender on percussion with electric pulp tests revealed tooth 35 to be totally non-responsive. Digital periapical radiograph showed two rooted tooth 35 with coronal radiolucency in close communication with the pulp and diagnosis of acute apical periodontitis of tooth 35 was made. Root canal treatment done locating all four canals; mesio lingual,  mesio-buccal, disto-lingual and disto-bucca

Factors Affecting Satisfaction With the Process of Orthodontic Treatment in Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile-Ife

Objectives: This study aims to determine the factors contributing to patient satisfaction with orthodontic treatment at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex. The specific objectives were to identify factors improving and negatively impacting patient satisfaction, and determine the level of patient satisfaction. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed, which involved patients attending the orthodontic clinic at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex. A self-administered questionnaire assessed patient demographics, satisfaction levels, and factors influencing satisfaction. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and mean scores. Results: Of the 67 respondents, 91% reported satisfaction with their orthodontic treatment. The doctor-patient relationship received the highest mean satisfaction score, while psycho-social improvement received the lowest. Dissatisfied patients were predominantly females in the 21-30 age group. Factors such as dento-facial and dental function improvements significantly affected satisfaction levels. Conclusion: The majority of orthodontic patients at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex reported satisfaction with their treatment. Improving patient communication, managing expectations, and addressing dento-facial and dental function improvements can enhance satisfaction levels. Strengthening the doctor-patient relationship and optimizing clinic experiences can improve patient satisfaction.

Distomolars – Exploring the Rare Clinical Entity in a Northern Nigerian Population

Background: Distomolars are supernumerary teeth erupting distal to the maxillary or mandibular third molars. This present study explored the clinical significance of distomolars in a Nigerian population. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence, clinical significance, and pathologies associated with distomolars in a population of Northern Nigerian adults using dental pantomograms. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Oral Diagnostic Sciences, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano State, Nigeria, and it included the extraction of images from the central computer attached to the Planmeca Promax machine. The sampling frame included patients who had dental pantomograms during the two-year period under review. The images were viewed on Planmeca Romexis 4.3.0 R software to identify relevant study variables. Results: Of 4,932 pantomograms reviewed, 107 distomolars were identified. The prevalence of distomolars was 2.17%. The mean age of subjects with a distomolars was 36.25 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.6. Majority of the distomolars were identified in the maxilla (60.75%) and had typical forms (67.3%) and 72.9% of them were seen unerupted. Conclusion: Distomolars occurred more frequently in females in the Nigerian population, commoner in the maxilla, and were predominantly unerupted and smaller in size than the normal adjacent teeth.

Pattern of Oral and Maxillofacial Biopsy Results in a Teaching Hospital; An 11-year Retrospective Study

Background Biopsy remains a cornerstone in diagnostic pathology, enabling definitive diagnosis, guiding treatment planning, and informing tumor classification. This study evaluated the distribution of histopathologically diagnosed lesions in the oral and maxillofacial region over an 11-year period. Methods  A retrospective review was conducted at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral Pathology, and Molecular Biology, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. Biopsy records from January 2013 to December 2023 were analyzed. Ethical approval was obtained from the Health Research and Ethics Committee (HREC Approval No. ADM/DSCST/HREC/APP/5714). Results  A total of 756 biopsies were reviewed. Females accounted for 52.2% of cases. The highest frequency of tumors occurred in the fourth decade of life (20.8%). Odontogenic tumors were the most prevalent lesion group, with ameloblastoma being the most common histologic diagnosis, predominantly involving the mandible. Conclusion A broad spectrum of lesions affects the maxillofacial region. Biopsy remains indispensable for definitive diagnosis. Knowledge of lesion distribution patterns is vital for clinical decision-making among oral surgeons and pathologists.

Radiographic Assessment of Features of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars With Post-Operative Injury to the Inferior Alveolar Nerves: A Record-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background Surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars (IMTMs) is among the most common minor oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures. However, it carries the risk of complications, including injury to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN). Panoramic radiography can predict this risk based on certain radiographic features, including root darkening, interruption of the radiopaque line of the inferior alveolar canal, canal diversion, dark and bifid apex, root deflection, narrowing of the IAN canal, and root narrowing. Objective To assess the prevalence and distribution of seven radiographic signs predictive of IAN injury during mandibular third molar surgery namely, root darkening, interruption of the white line, IAN canal diversion, root deflection, narrowing of the IAN canal, dark and bifid apex, and root narrowing and evaluate their correlation with clinical outcomes in adult patients. Methods This retrospective, cross-sectional study reviewed 258 panoramic radiographs of adult patients aged 18–60 years (120 males and 138 females) with 341 impacted mandibular third molars located in proximity to the IAN canal. Predictor variables were the seven radiographic signs listed above. The primary outcome variable was postoperative IAN injury. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Statistical tests included ANOVA, chi-square, and correlation coefficients, with significance set at p<0.05. Data were presented using descriptive statistics, tables, charts, and graphs. Results The most frequent radiographic sign was interruption of the radiopaque superior margin of the IAN canal (n = 182, 70.5%), followed by narrowing of the IAN canal (n = 143, 55.4%) and root darkening (n = 105, 40.7%). Of the 341 IMTMs, 76 (21.4%) were surgically removed, and 13 (17.1%) of these cases resulted in IAN injury. Among them, eight had interrupted radiopaque lines, three had canal narrowing, and one each showed root deflection and root darkening. Conclusion The most predictive radiographic signs of IAN injury during surgical removal of IMTMs were interruption of the radiopaque canal margin, canal narrowing, and root darkening. Surgeons should carefully assess these signs preoperatively to reduce the risk of nerve injury.