MTA-Based Root Canal Sealers

Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) has been recommended for pulp capping, pulpotomy, apical barrier formation in teeth with open apexes, repair of root perforation and root canal obturation. Since, its introduction in 1993 by Torabinejad numerous studies have been published regarding various aspects of this material. The aim of this review was to consider MTA as root canal sealer and various laboratory experiments and clinical studies of MTAbased root canal sealers. An extensive search of the endodontic  literature was made to identify publications related to MTA-based root canal sealers. The articles were assessed for the outcome of laboratory and clinical studies on their biological properties and physical characteristics. Comparative studies with other sealers were also considered. Several studies were evaluated covering different properties of MTA-based sealers includingphysical properties, biocompatibility, leakage, adhesion, solubility, antibacterial properties and periapical healing effect. Comparative studies reveal their mild cytotoxicity, but theirantibacterial effects are variable. Further research is required to establish the role of MTA as root canal sealers

Therapeutic potential of dental pulp stem cells in regenerative medicine: An overview

The purpose of this review is to gain an overview of the applications of the dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in the treatment of various medical diseases. Stem cells have the capacity to differentiate and regenerate into various tissues. DPSCs are the adult stem cells that reside in the cell rich zone of the dental pulp. These are the multipotent cells that can be explained by their embryonic origin from the neural crest. Owing to this multipotency, these DPSCs can be used in both dental and medical applications. A review of literature has been performed using electronic and hand-searching methods for the medical applications of DPSCs. On the basis of the available information, DPSCs appear to be a promising alternative for the regeneration of tissues and treatment of various diseases, although, long-term clinical trials and studies are needed to confirm their efficacy

Assessment of knowledge, practices, and work place condition related to ergonomics among dental students of Bhopal city - A questionnaire study

Background: Dental profession is susceptible to various postural and nonpostural occupational risks. Aim : To determine knowledge, practice, and condition of work place regarding ergonomic posture among dental students from Bhopal city, Central India. Also to observe any correlation among knowledge, practice, and condition of work place scores. Materials and Methods : A self-administered questionnaire study was conducted among 231 dental students. The questionnaire consisted of three parts: Knowledge, practice, and condition of work place. Analysis of variance was used to compare mean of knowledge, practice of clinical posture, and condition of work place. Pearson′s correlation coefficient has been applied to compute correlation among knowledge, practice, and condition of work place scores. A P value < 0.05 was considered significant for all statistical analyses. Results : We found that 70% of dental students perform torsion of the body and cervical flexion to improve vision and prefer direct vision when working. Only 59% reported that they are working with ergonomically designed dental unit and instruments. Most of them reported that the work stool is not comfortable. Mean knowledge, practice, and condition of work place scores were 3.93 (1.26), 5.01 (1.58), and 2.60 (1.14), respectively. Significant differences between the groups were noted for means of practice scores (P ≤ 0.01). Significant linear correlation was seen between knowledge-practice scores (r = 0.20) (P ≤ 0.01), practice-condition of work place scores (r = 0.14) (P ≤ 0.05), and knowledge-condition of work place scores (r = 0.14) (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion : The knowledge of ergonomic postural requirements and their clinical application among the dental students surveyed were not satisfactory. A multifactorial approach that includes preventive education, postural and positioning strategies, proper selection, and use of ergonomic equipment should be employed