JSS Dental College and Hospital

Objectives: Practical assessments hold a critical role in evaluating students’ performance. However, achieving objectivity, consistency, authenticity, reliability, and practical usefulness in student evaluations can be a formidable challenge. Objective structured practical examination (OSPE) offers a unique approach to aligning assessment methods with the educational objectives. The objective of the study is to assess the opinion about OSPE in comparison with traditional practical examination among undergraduate students in a dental institution. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among all the undergraduates of one of the dental institutions using a questionnaire consisting of 10 questions on five-point Likert scale after checking for its reliability and validity. Data was analyzed using Chi-square test. Results: In the present survey, 80% of the subjects perceived that OSPE is better when compared to traditional practical examination, whereas 20% of the subjects disagreed in their opinion, and the results were significant at P < 0.05. Conclusion: OSPE was found to be a better method for evaluation when compared to the traditional method.

With increasing life expectancy and multimorbidity, polypharmacy—commonly defined as the concurrent use of five or more medications—has become highly prevalent in older adults and poses substantial risks for oral health. This narrative review aimed to synthesize contemporary evidence on the epidemiology, pharmacological mechanisms, and oral manifestations of polypharmacy in geriatric populations, and to propose an interprofessional management framework for dental practitioners in 2025 care settings. Recent epidemiological data indicate that polypharmacy affects more than 30%–44% of older adults globally, with even higher rates among those with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and multimorbidity. Medications with anticholinergic burden, as well as many antihypertensive and psychotropic agents, are strongly associated with salivary gland hypofunction and xerostomia, which in turn contribute to rampant caries, oral candidiasis, mucosal lesions, dysgeusia, periodontal complications, and drug-induced gingival overgrowth. Diagnostic and therapeutic challenges are amplified by underreporting of symptoms, cognitive impairment, and fragmented medical–dental care pathways. Evidence supports a preventive and interdisciplinary approach that includes structured medication review and deprescribing in collaboration with physicians and pharmacists, optimization of salivary function using sialogogues and saliva substitutes, prescription of high-fluoride toothpastes, and tailored oral hygiene and dietary counseling with caregiver engagement. Dentists are strategically positioned to detect medication-related oral conditions, trigger timely medication optimization, and coordinate ongoing care. A structured, multidisciplinary model integrating dental, medical, and pharmacy services is essential to mitigate the oral and systemic consequences of polypharmacy and to preserve function and quality of life in aging populations.

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder in childhood, marked by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. In India, limited awareness and variable access to diagnosis result in underidentification, particularly across socio-geographic divides. To estimate the prevalence of ADHD among children aged 6-11 years in selected urban and rural schools of Mysuru District, Karnataka and to analyze the subtype distribution and gender-based differences. A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among 739 schoolchildren selected by the simple random sampling. ADHD symptoms were assessed using the Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Rating Scales - Teacher and Parent versions - based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder-5 criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS v28; P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of ADHD was 13.8%, with the combined subtype being most common (52%), followed by inattentive (27%) and hyperactive (21%). The prevalence was higher in boys (15.86%) than girls (10.86%) and significantly higher in urban schools (16.2%) compared to rural (9.7%) (P = 0.01). Over 87% of affected children exhibited moderate to severe functional impairment, particularly in the combined group. Teachers reported more hyperactivity, while parents noted inattentiveness. Notably, 56% of cases had not been previously identified. ADHD is common yet underdiagnosed among Indian schoolchildren. Subtype-specific impairments and urban-rural disparities highlight the need for early screening, multi-informant assessments, and equitable, school-based interventions. Collaborative efforts among educators, parents, and healthcare providers are essential to improve the diagnosis and outcomes.

BackgroundThe supraspinatus muscle and tendon are an integral part of shoulder joint function and stability. The supraspinatus tendon is one of the four tendons forming the rotator cuff in the shoulder. Supraspinatus tendon tear is a frequent lesion that occurs due to various causes like lifting heavy objects, falls onto the shoulder, a dislocation of the shoulder, swimming, trauma, sports injury, occupational activity and degenerative change. Smoking, hypercholesterolemia, and hereditary predisposition are all established risk factors for developing RC tears, which affect the age dependent tendon degeneration process. Only a few articles were found discussing the histological characteristics of degenerative change of the supraspinatus tendon in rotator cuff tears.ObjectiveTo evaluate the histological characteristics of degenerative changes in the supraspinatus tendon associated with rotator cuff tears.MethodsRotator cuff disease is a major cause of shoulder pain and shoulder dysfunction in adults; not every patient is symptomatic, though. We examined morphological features of human surgical specimens of the supraspinatus tendon in patients with full thickness tears of the rotator cuff.ResultsHistological analysis of the surgical specimen revealed significant degenerative changes, including disorganization and tearing of the collagen fiber bundles, sparingly distributed, rounded tenocytes, and increased vascularity (neovascularization) within the tendon matrix.ConclusionThese findings provide direct evidence of intrinsic tendon degeneration as a key pathological factor in full thickness rotator cuff tears, which may be helpful for future research on the pathophysiology of the condition.

Objective: To evaluate the biomechanical response of the Forsus Fatigue-resistant Device (FRD) on the dentofacial complex using three-dimensional finite element analysis. Methodology: High-resolution computed tomography scans were used to create the detailed anatomical models of the maxilla, mandible, dentition, periodontal ligament, and supporting bone. Forsus FRD, McLaughlin, Bennett, and Trevisi (MBT) brackets, and 19 × 25 stainless steel archwires were modeled using CATIA and meshed using HYPERMESH. Material properties and boundary conditions were assigned, and simulations were conducted in ANSYS 14.5. Forces at 2 mm–10 mm activations were analyzed for stress and deformation patterns across skeletal and dental structures. Results: Forsus FRD showed consistent stress distribution across telescopic rods and helical springs, with peak deformation localized near the mandibular attachment. Incremental activations revealed a linear increase in force output and associated stress in the dentoalveolar structures. Maximal stress concentrations were observed at the mandibular canine brackets and the maxillary first molar tubes, correlating with the areas of highest deformation. Brackets and archwires exhibited mild-to-moderate stress under loading conditions, remaining within safe biomechanical thresholds. Conclusion: The Forsus FRD delivers controlled, continuous forces with predictable stress patterns, demonstrating its efficacy in noncompliant Class II correction. The appliance’s biomechanical design minimizes fatigue risk while effectively engaging the skeletal and dental components. Finite element modeling serves as a powerful tool for visualizing and quantifying orthodontic force systems, advancing evidence-based appliance selection and treatment planning.

Aims and backgroundNeonatal factors like gestational age have a major impact on the general and oral growth and development of the child. To compensate for the low birth weight and enhance weight gain, preterm children are often exposed to more frequent cariogenic food intakes between meals and during the night, and these are well-known risk factors for early childhood caries (ECC). ECC in preterm children might also impact the quality of life of the child and parent. This study evaluates the oral health status and quality of life among children born preterm.Materials and methodsA clinical examination of 150 preterm children was done to evaluate their oral health status. The Oral Health-related Early Childhood Quality of Life (OH-ECQoL) tool was used to assess the quality of life.ResultsThe mean age of children in years was 4.99. A total of 72% of the children were introduced to oral hygiene after the age of 24 months, 52% of children had moderate caries, and 8% had severe caries. Children born at 32–36 weeks had a reduced likelihood of ECC as compared to those born before 32 weeks.ConclusionFrom this study, it may be concluded that children born preterm had higher caries prevalence and poorer quality of life. Early guidance on oral health is needed to combat the health disparity among these children. Longitudinal studies to understand the long-term impact of preterm on oral health are needed.Clinical significancePreterm children are at higher risk of having dental diseases. Identification of disparities and challenges faced by preterm children related to oral health needs to be focused on, as the prevalence of preterm children is high among the Indian population.How to cite this articleDevraj IM, Girish MS, Sushma K, et al. Oral Health Status and Oral Health-related Quality of Life among Children Born Preterm: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(12):1454–1460.

This review explores the growing role of advanced radiological imaging in internal medicine, focusing on its applications in prognosis prediction, disease monitoring, and early diagnosis. It highlights how developments in computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), ultrasound, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping clinical decision-making in fields such as neurology, cardiology, and oncology. Although progress has been substantial, widespread adoption is still limited by high costs, unequal access, and the absence of consistent protocols. The use of AI in combination with radiomics, the quantitative study of medical images, has enhanced diagnostic accuracy and expanded opportunities for outcome prediction and treatment planning. However, challenges remain, including inconsistencies in data quality, regulatory barriers, and the pressing need for validation through large-scale, multicenter studies. Hybrid technologies such as PET/MRI, which combine functional and anatomical imaging, hold particular promise for improving diagnostic precision in neurology and oncology. Together, these innovations illustrate the transformative potential of modern imaging to enable earlier interventions and support more personalized care strategies. The review emphasizes the need for validation, standardized frameworks, and international collaboration to overcome current limitations. Addressing these concerns will broaden the accessibility of these tools, fostering more equitable healthcare and improved outcomes worldwide. Finally, it provides practical guidance for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers who must adapt to the rapidly advancing landscape of radiological imaging.

BackgroundIsolated cleft palate (CP) disrupts the feeding, speech, and social development of young children. Standard Bardach two-flap palatoplasty effectively closes the defect but can leave large areas of exposed bone along the sides, particularly in wider clefts. The exposed bone may lead to scar formation and restricted jaw growth. A modified version of the two-flap technique uses incisions along the alveolar ridge or within the gum crevice to mobilize tissue, minimize exposed bone, and achieve closure without tension. This study compared the operative efficiency, postoperative complications, and functional outcomes between conventional and modified techniques in pediatric patients with isolated CP.MethodologyThis prospective, observational study was conducted over a period of 24 months. In total, 24 children aged 12-24 months with Veau I/II isolated CP were divided into the following two groups (n = 12 each): Group A underwent conventional Bardach two-flap palatoplasty, and Group B underwent the modified technique with alveolar ridge/crevicular incisions. All surgeries were performed under general anesthesia with intravelar veloplasty and layered closure using 4-0 Vicryl sutures. The outcomes assessed included operative time, tension-free closure, fistula formation (Pittsburgh classification), nasal regurgitation, uvular morphology, and deciduous teeth eruption patterns. Follow-up was extended to 18 months. Data were analyzed using Fisher’s exact test and the independent t-test (p < 0.05).ResultsDemographic characteristics were comparable between the groups. The mean operative time was 135 minutes (conventional) versus 141.67 minutes (modified) (p = 0.387). Tension-free closure was achieved in eight (66.67%) conventional and 12 (100%) modified cases (p = 0.121). No fistulas or nasal regurgitations occurred in either group. Two (16.67%) patients per group had a minor delay in deciduous tooth eruption (p = 1.0). Uvular morphology was satisfactory in six (50%) conventional and eight (66.67%) modified cases (p = 0.558). All differences were not statistically significant.ConclusionsBoth conventional and modified two-flap palatoplasty techniques yielded equivalent surgical and functional outcomes, with minimal morbidity in Veau I/II isolated CP repair. The modified approach tended toward better mobilization and tension-free closure in wider defects without increasing the operative time or complications. Larger randomized trials with long-term cephalometric and speech evaluations are recommended to confirm these clinical benefits.

Introduction: Fractures of the zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC), a crucial component of the midface, frequently lead to functional impairments, such as diplopia, enophthalmos, and restricted ocular motility. Although surgical intervention is often required, conventional techniques can be limited by suboptimal access and potential aesthetic drawbacks. This study prospectively assessed the efficacy, functional recovery, and cosmetic results of the Y-modified transconjunctival technique for managing ZMC fractures with concomitant orbital floor injury.Materials and methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted at a single oral and maxillofacial surgery department. Fifteen eligible patients (aged 18-65 years) presenting with displaced ZMC fractures and orbital floor defects were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using the Y-modified transconjunctival approach. Outcome measures included pain (Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score), enophthalmos (Hertel exophthalmometer), scar quality (Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) 3.0), and paresthesia. Fracture reduction and implant position were verified using high-resolution computed tomography. Patients were systematically evaluated postoperatively on days 1, 10, 28, and 42, and the data were subjected to statistical analysis.Results: The results demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in pain levels over time, with mean VAS scores declining from 5.82 on postoperative day 1 to 1.00 by day 42 (p < 0.01). Residual enophthalmos was observed in a single case (6.67%). Objective scar evaluation using POSAS 3.0 indicated marked improvements in vascularity, pigmentation, and pliability between the 10- and 28-day assessments (p < 0.01). Furthermore, patient-reported feedback corroborated these findings, indicating a diminished perception of discomfort and a positive view of scar healing.Conclusions: The Y-modified transconjunctival approach proved to be an effective strategy for ZMC fractures with orbital floor involvement, providing ample surgical exposure for stable fixation while yielding excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes. However, the promising results should be interpreted in the context of the study's limitations, including a modest sample size and single-institution design. Future research involving larger multicenter cohorts with long-term follow-up is necessary to confirm these preliminary findings and establish broader clinical applicability.

Background and Aim: To understand the difficulties of elderly in natural listening situations, the present study assessed the ability of participants to extract phonetic information and semantic information in noise. The main objective was to evaluate the relationship between age and performance in Semantic Information Processing (SIP) and Phonetic Information Processing (PIP) tasks. Methods: Fifty-three normal hearing participants aged 40 to 65 years were categorized into five age groups. Participants underwent information processing assessments using standardized semantic and phonetic questions from Kannada stories under Signal-to-Noise Ratios (SNR) i.e., quiet, 0 dB SNR, and –4 dB SNR conditions. Results: Younger participants outperformed older participants in both SIP and PIP tasks. Performance was optimal in quiet conditions, followed by 0 dB and –4 dB SNR. Except at –4 dB, PIP scores exceeded SIP scores. A significant differences was observed between the groups 1–4 and group 5 at 0 dB SNR in PIP condition only. A moderate negative correlations indicated that performance in both SIP and PIP declined with age, with linear regression revealing reductions of 0.216 and 0.210 each year in SIP and PIP respectively. Conclusion: Age-related declines in PIP were noted at one SNR, while SIP remained stable, aligning with the Transmission Deficit Hypothesis (TDH). Nonetheless, regression analyses indicated a general decline in both SIP and PIP with age, supporting the Inhibitory Deficit Hypothesis (IDH).