Comparison of infection control practices in dental radiographic examination during the COVID-19 pandemic among various health facilities in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Dental radiography services were at high risk of becoming sites for cross-infection during the COVID-19 pandemic. To minimize the spread of COVID-19, infection control adaptations were implemented in dental radiography services across various healthcare facilities, including Type A, B, C, and D hospitals, as well as clinical laboratories. This study aims to determine the differences in infection control practices of dental radiographic examinations during the COVID-19 pandemic at various health facilities. This cross-sectional study involved 42 dental radiographers who worked in Yogyakarta. Control infections were measured using the electronic questionnaire with 27 closed-ended questions. The data were analyzed statistically using the Kruskal-Wallis test, and descriptive analysis was continued by categorizing the control infection into high, medium, and low levels. The validity and reliability test showed that 18 questionnaire items were valid and reliable. The statistical test showed a p-value of 0.672 (p > 0.05) for the staff infection control and 0.147 (p > 0.05) for the room infection control. This study found no significant differences in infection control practices during dental radiographic examinations across various healthcare facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. All facilities implemented high levels of infection control, with clinical laboratories showing the highest compliance. The study suggests increasing the number of questionnaire items related to room infection control and expanding the study’s scope in future research to improve accuracy and represent a broader population

Silkworm cocoon (Bombyx mori) accelerates wound healing in skin excision: a study on macrophage and VEGF

Silkworm cocoon (Bombyx mori) is a natural polymer composite and largely used as bio-functional material for wound healing. It consists of fibroin and sericin protein that has antibacterial effect. This study aimed to investigate the effect of silkworm cocoons (Bombyx mori) wound dressing on the number of macrophages and VEGF expression in skin excision. The subject of this study was 12 Wistar rats, which were grouped based on the duration of wound dressing application (3rd day and 6th day) and the use of dressing materials (n = 6). The rats were anesthetized with ketamin and xylazine prior to wound excision. A punch biopsy wound excision with 4 mm diameter of subcutaneous depth was made on both sides of the rat’s back, with the right side dressed with silkworm cocoon as the treatment group and the left side dressed with moist gauze application as the control group. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was performed to observe the number of macrophage cells. Immunohistochemical staining using an anti-VEGF antibody was performed to observe the expression of VEGF. Data were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA and an Independent t-test with confidence interval of 95%. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significantly higher number of macrophages in the silkworm cocoon wound dressing group on 6 days post-application (p = 0.026) and significantly higher VEGF expression in the silkworm cocoon wound dressing group on 3 days post-application (p = 0.002) and on 6 days post-application (p = 0.044). Silkworm cocoon (Bombyx mori) wound dressing can increase the number of macrophages and VEGF expression in wound excision model in Wistar rat

Effect of 35% sodium ascorbate combined with 0.4% surfactant on resin tag length in composite restorations following intracoronal bleaching

The application of 35% hydrogen peroxide in intracoronal bleaching generates free radicals that shorten resin tags and weaken the bond strength of composite resin restorations. Although 35% sodium ascorbate can neutralize free radical residues, its molecular instability limits its effectiveness. The addition of surfactants may enhance both the penetration ability and stability of sodium ascorbate. This study aimed to investigate the effect of adding 0.4% surfactant to 35% sodium ascorbate on the length of resin tags in composite resin restorations following intracoronal bleaching. Thirty mandibular premolars were prepared with standardized Class I cavities measuring 2.7 mm in diameter and 6 mm in depth. A 35% hydrogen peroxide gel was applied to the cavities for five consecutive days. After bleaching, the samples were randomly assigned to three groups of ten teeth each. The first group was stored in an incubator for seven days before undergoing composite resin restoration. The second group received an application of 35% sodium ascorbate, which was then rinsed off before immediate composite restoration. The third group received an application of 35% sodium ascorbate combined with 0.4% surfactant, followed by rinsing and immediate composite restoration. Histological preparations were made using hematoxylin-eosin staining and observed under a light microscope at 400× magnification. Resin tag lengths were measured using the Image Raster application. The one-way ANOVA test revealed a statistically significant difference among the groups (p = 0.000). Post-hoc LSD analysis showed that resin tag lengths in the third group were significantly greater than those in both the first and second groups (p = 0.000 for both comparisons). These results indicate that the combination of 35% sodium ascorbate with 0.4% surfactant significantly increases resin tag length and may enhance the bonding performance of composite restorations following intracoronal bleaching

The effect of activated charcoal and bentonite toothpaste on extrinsic tooth discoloration

Tooth discoloration is categorized into intrinsic and extrinsic types, with the latter caused by external staining agents such as pigmented beverages (e.g., black tea). Whitening toothpastes are commonly used to address extrinsic discoloration, though chemical-based formulations may lead to side effects. Consequently, natural alternatives, including activated charcoal and bentonite, are gaining attention as whitening agents. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of activated charcoal and bentonite toothpaste on extrinsic tooth discoloration. A control group pretest-posttest design was employed, involving 48 premolar teeth divided into four groups. Samples were stained by immersion in a black tea solution (400 mL water, 4 tea bags) for 4 hours daily over 13 days, simulating 7 months of tea consumption. Color measurements were conducted using a spectrophotometer before and after brushing. Brushing was carried out using an electric toothbrush with 0.5 g of toothpaste and 1 mL of distilled water for 2 minutes, twice daily, over 10 days. Repeated ANOVA analysis revealed significant differences in ΔE, ΔL, and ΔC values (p < 0.05). Activated charcoal toothpaste produced a marked lightening effect and increased color intensity, although no change was observed at the cervical region of the teeth. These findings suggest that activated charcoal may serve as an effective natural agent for managing extrinsic discoloration while further research is needed to clarify its long-term effects and clinical applications

Complex management of multiple facial traumas using a bottom-up approach

Blunt trauma, particularly from traffic accidents, is a leading cause of multiple facial fractures. Managing such injuries can be extremely challenging for surgeons, especially when multiple facial regions are involved. Inadequate stabilization of fractured bones may result in permanent deformities. This case report outlines the principles and techniques of managing complex facial trauma, focusing on achieving harmonious bone alignment and balanced occlusion through proper segmental reduction. We present the case of a 28-year-old male with multiple facial fractures sustained in a traffic accident. Clinical and radiological examinations revealed fractures of the left orbital rim, Le Fort I level, left zygomaticomaxillary complex, mandibular symphysis, and right parasymphysis, accompanied by tooth avulsion. The patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) under general anesthesia using a bottom-up approach, followed by four weeks of intermaxillary fixation. This resulted in improved facial contour and satisfactory intermaxillary relationship. Effective management of multiple facial fractures requires comprehensive planning and meticulous technique to restore facial aesthetics, mastication, and anatomical landmarks. This can be achieved through either a top-down or bottom-up approach, depending on the stability of the fractured segments. In this case, ORIF was initiated with mandibular fixation due to the relative stability of the mandibular fragments, supporting the use of a bottom-up strategy. Thorough planning and precise execution are crucial to achieving optimal anatomical and functional outcomes and preserving the patient’s quality of life

Effect of adhesive type, application technique, and immediate dentin sealing on the shear bond strength of lithium disilicate

Immediate dentin sealing (IDS) is a technique involving the application of adhesive material to freshly prepared dentin for indirect restorations. This method prevents contamination by saliva, debris, and bacteria from penetrating dentinal tubules, which could otherwise compromise the bonding strength of restorative materials. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different adhesive types and application techniques in IDS on the shear bond strength (SBS) of lithium disilicate. The adhesive systems investigated included an eighth-generation adhesive and a universal adhesive, each applied using both total-etch and self-etch techniques. Twenty-eight upper premolars were divided into four groups, with buccal crown surfaces prepared for IDS treatment as follows: Group I – eighth-generation adhesive with total-etch; Group II – eighth-generation adhesive with self-etch; Group III – universal adhesive with total-etch; and Group IV – universal adhesive with self-etch. Lithium disilicate was cemented onto the dentin surfaces treated with IDS and then immersed in distilled water for 24 hours prior to SBS testing. The results showed that both adhesive type and application technique significantly influenced SBS (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed among Groups II, III, and IV. However, Group I demonstrated the lowest SBS. In conclusion, the findings indicate that both the choice of adhesive and application technique in IDS significantly affect the shear bond strength of lithium disilicate

Effectiveness of Catharanthus roseus L. extract gel on TNF-α and IL-1β in the healing process of oral lesions

The global incidence of oral lesions ranges from 5% to 66%, with an average of 20%. To date, no scientific research has investigated the effects of Catharanthus roseus L. (tapak dara) leaf extract on the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in oral lesion healing. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of tapak dara leaf extract gel in reducing the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β during oral lesion healing. A total of 30 mice (Mus musculus) were divided into five groups: four treatment groups and one control group, each housed separately. The gel formulation was prepared by mixing diluted extract solutions (5%, 10%, and 20%) into a 2% CMC-Na solution, heated and stirred for 10 minutes, and then cooled to achieve a gel consistency. Phytochemical screening was performed to qualitatively identify flavonoids, tannins, saponins, phenolics, alkaloids, steroids, and terpenoids. Expression levels of TNF-α and IL-1β were measured using an ELISA kit. ANOVA results showed that tapak dara leaf extract gel at 5%, 10%, and 20% significantly reduced TNF-α and IL-1β expression (p = 0.001). Tukey’s post hoc test indicated that the positive control (K+) group had the lowest expression of both TNF-α and IL-1β compared to other groups (p = 0.001). In conclusion, tapak dara leaf extract gel effectively reduces TNF-α and IL-1β expression, supporting its potential role in the healing process of oral lesions

Effect of pineapple core extract on growth and saliva stimulation in Stunted Rats

Stunting refers to a condition of short stature in toddlers due to delayed growth from the prenatal period until the age of 24 months. Chronic malnutrition in stunted toddlers leads to protein deficiency; therefore, active substances are needed for maximum protein absorption. Pineapple core (Ananas comosus) contains bromelainenzymes and citric acid, whichcan enhance protein absorption in conditions of chronic malnutrition and increase saliva flow rate.This study aims to investigate the effect of pineapple core extract on growth parameters and saliva flow rate in stunted Wistar rats. This study involved 16 male Wistar rats, which were divided into four groups: a negative control group (no treatment), a treatment group (75% pineapple core extract), a positive control group 1 (FeSo4 supplements), and positive control group 2 (pilocarpine hydrochloride). Growth parameters and saliva flow rate were measured before and after pineapple core extract treatment. The research results were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukeys test, which showed a significant difference between the treatment group and the other groups in body weight (p = 0.037), body length (p = 0.028), tail length (p = 0.003), and saliva flow rate (p = 0.000). Administration of 75% pineapple core extract resulted in increased growth parameters (body weight, body length, and tail length) and saliva flow rate in stunted rats

Is breastfeeding duration associated with caries in stunted toddlers? a cross-sectional study

Stunting remains a significant nutritional concern in Indonesia, potentially affecting physical and cognitive development. Stunting may lead to oral health issues, specifically dental caries, due to salivary gland atrophy in malnourished children. While dental caries have multiple contributing factors, breast milk contains protective proteins and antibacterial properties that may influence caries development. This study aims to investigate the association between breastfeeding duration and dental caries occurrence in stunted and non-stunted toddlers. An analytical observational study with a cross-sectional approach was conducted using quota sampling of 30 toddlers attending Sumingkir Village Posyandu. Spearman correlation analysis showed no significant correlation between breastfeeding duration and caries in both stunted (p = 0.68) and non-stunted groups (p =0.66). Independent T-test revealed no significant mean differences between the groups (p < 0.05). However, the Mann-Whitney test demonstrated a significant median difference in caries (p = 0.006) between stunting (4(0-6)) and non-stunting groups (0(0-18)). This study concludes that breastfeeding duration showed no correlation with caries in either stunted or non-stunted toddlers; however, nutritional status (stunting) appeared to influence caries occurrence in toddlers

Silkworm cocoon (Bombyx mori) accelerates wound healing in skin excision: a study on macrophage and VEGF

Silkworm cocoon (Bombyx mori) is a natural polymer composite and largely used as bio-functional material for wound healing. It consists of fibroin and sericin protein that has antibacterial effect. This study aimed to investigate the effect of silkworm cocoons (Bombyx mori) wound dressing on the number of macrophages and VEGF expression in skin excision. The subject of this study was 12 Wistar rats, which were grouped based on the duration of wound dressing application (3rd day and 6th day) and the use of dressing materials (n = 6). The rats were anesthetized with ketamin and xylazine prior to wound excision. A punch biopsy wound excision with 4 mm diameter of subcutaneous depth was made on both sides of the rat’s back, with the right side dressed with silkworm cocoon as the treatment group and the left side dressed with moist gauze application as the control group. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was performed to observe the number of macrophage cells. Immunohistochemical staining using an anti-VEGF antibody was performed to observe the expression of VEGF. Data were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA and an Independent t-test with confidence interval of 95%. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significantly higher number of macrophages in the silkworm cocoon wound dressing group on 6 days post-application (p = 0.026) and significantly higher VEGF expression in the silkworm cocoon wound dressing group on 3 days post-application (p = 0.002) and on 6 days post-application (p = 0.044). Silkworm cocoon (Bombyx mori) wound dressing can increase the number of macrophages and VEGF expression in wound excision model in Wistar rat