Objective: Self-medication refers to medication behavior for self-diagnosed symptoms. Oral ulcers are self-medicated lesions in the oral cavity. Dental students have different knowledge about oral cavity lesions and may self-medicate using drugs. This study aimed to determine the self-medication behavior of dental students for oral ulcers. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on dental students in the Faculty of Dentistry from different batch years. Purposive sampling was used to select students with oral ulcer lesions in the last six months. A validated and reliable questionnaire was used to assess self-medication behavior. Data collection using the online form. Student behavior data were presented descriptively and analyzed using a one-way ANOVA test. Results: The mean of self-medication behavior for oral ulcers was observed to be higher for the earliest intake group (2015–2016) of students than for the middle (2017–2018) or most recent (2019–2020) year groups. The results of the one-way ANOVA test showed that the p-value was not significant between the groups of dental students. Conclusion: No difference was observed in the self-medication behavior for oral ulcers among dental students based on their study year.

Objective: This study aimed to compare pharyngeal airway and dentoskeletal effects of 2 and 4 premolar extraction treatments in adult patients separately for each gender. Methods: The study was conducted with 60 adults (26 males; 34 females) aged 18-35 years. Individuals were divided into 3 groups as non-extraction, 2-premolar extraction, and 4-premolar extraction. Pre-treatment (T0) and post-treatment (T1) dentoskeletal and pharyngeal airway measurements were performed on cephalometric radiographs. Results: A significant increase in nasopharyngeal airway (PNS-ad2) and anterior hyoid bone movement (CV3ai-H) was observed in the 4-extraction group; whereas in the 2-extraction group, inferior oropharyngeal airway (IAS) narrowing and hyoid bone movement in posterosuperior direction were observed. In the non-extraction group, inferior oropharyngeal airway narrowing and hyoid bone movement in the anteroinferior direction were observed. A significant increase in nasopharyngeal airway, narrowing of oropharyngeal airway, and superior hyoid bone movement were observed in the 2-extraction group in males. In the non-extraction and 4-extraction groups, the hyoid bone moved in inferior and anterior directions, respectively. While the hyoid bone moved posteriorly in the 2-extraction group in females, there was an increase in nasopharyngeal airway and narrowing of the middle oropharyngeal airway (MAS) in the 4-extraction group. Conclusion: While the nasopharyngeal airway was widened in individuals with 4-extractions, the inferior oropharyngeal airway was narrowed in both the 2-extraction and non-extraction groups. Hyoid bone movement was observed in anterior, posterosuperior, and anteroinferior directions in 4-extraction, 2-extraction, and non-extraction patients, respectively, and these changes vary according to gender.

Objectives: It is challenging to achieve satisfactory outcomes in a complete denture for patients with resorbed residual ridges. Utilization of neutral zone techniques to guide posterior denture tooth arrangement and denture base contouring has been considered for many decades. However, the evidence is still not enough to revise protocols. This study aimed to compare patient satisfaction and stability of neutral zone denture with conventional denture. Methods: A crossover clinical trial was conducted among patients with resorbed mandibular ridges. Each participant received two sets of dentures: one fabricated using the neutral zone technique and one using the conventional method, in a randomized sequence. Denture stability was assessed clinically at the time of insertion. Patient satisfaction was recorded after three weeks of wearing each denture using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests for within-subject comparisons, and carryover effects were evaluated using pre-test. Results: The carry-over effect was not statistically significant for both satisfaction (p = 0.099) and stability (p = 0.316). The stability of neutral zone denture was significantly higher than conventional denture (p = 0.043). Conclusion: Dentures prepared using neutral zone technique have been found to be more stable when compared to ones prepared using conventional methods.

Objective: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are common workplace hazards in dentistry resulting from poor ergonomics and static postures, which lead to back, neck, and upper limb (shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand) problems among dentists, resulting in harm to their health, productivity, and career. This study aimed to assess the frequency of MSDs, risk factors related to MSDs, and awareness of ergonomics among clinicians. Methods: Data were collected from 400 dental professionals, including house officers, postgraduate trainees, general dentists, and teachers/consultants, each with at least 12 months of practice. Data were collected using a structured, closed-ended questionnaire. Before data collection, ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of the Karachi Medical and Dental College (ESRC/KMDC/069/2023). Results: It was found that only 12.8% of respondents (n = 49, all postgraduate trainees) regularly adjusted their chairs to an ergonomic position. Maintaining posture for > 40 min (p = 0.025), uncomfortable stools (p = 0.034), repeated motions for more than two hours (p = 0.003), maintained non-neutral postures for > 2 h (p = 0.002), and repetitive wrist flexion or extension (p = 0.014) were all significant risk factors. Conclusion: There is a need to incorporate ergonomics and posturedontics into undergraduate and continuing education curricula to minimize the risk of developing MSDs and to support sustainable careers.

Understanding the microstructural and elemental composition of pulp capping materials is crucial for predicting their biocompatibility and effectiveness in promoting pulp healing. Objectives: This study aimed to characterize the microstructural and elemental properties of carbonated hydroxyapatite as a dental pulp-capping material. Methods: Carbonated hydroxyapatite was synthesized using the precipitation method. MTA and Apacal ART were obtained from commercial sources. The materials were prepared into disk-shaped specimens, hydrated in deionized water at 37°C for 14 days, and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Results: SEM images revealed that MTA exhibited smooth, plate-like crystalline structures surrounded by a rougher matrix. Apacal ART showed smooth, spherical particles. carbonated hydroxyapatite displayed small, spherical, and irregularly shaped particles. EDX analysis indicated carbonated hydroxyapatite had the highest calcium content, followed by MTA and Apacal ART. Conclusion: Carbonated hydroxyapatite demonstrated favorable microstructural and elemental properties for use as a pulp capping agent. Its high calcium content and specific microstructural features suggest it could be a viable alternative to traditional materials like MTA and Apacal ART. Further clinical studies are needed to validate these findings and assess the in vivo efficacy of carbonated hydroxyapatite.

Objective: Mouthwash is widely used to maintain oral health by reducing the prevalence of pathogenic microbiomes. Nonetheless, chlorhexidine, a common active ingredient, is associated with side effects including teeth staining, mucosal peeling, mouth and tongue numbness. This has prompted interest in natural alternatives. This study aimed to identify the cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory properties of 1’S-1’-acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA) isolated from Alpinia conchigera rhizome against human primary gingival fibroblast and keratinocyte (HPGF and HPGK). Methods: Cytotoxicity of ACA (1.57 mg/mL) against HPGF and HPGK was assessed using the MTT assay. Meanwhile, the anti-inflammatory property of ACA was analyzed based on the concentration of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) synthesized by HPGF and HPGK in response to injury stimulation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Results: Treatment with ACA was non-cytotoxic to HPGF and HPGK, with cell viability maintained above 80% after 24 hours. In addition, ACA showed anti-inflammatory activity by reducing the concentration of IL-6 and LDH produced by HPGF and HPGK in response to LPS, reflecting the ACA possibly protecting the cells from inflammation. Conclusion: ACA isolated from A. conchigera rhizome demonstrated non-cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory properties in oral epithelial cells, suggesting its potential to be incorporated in the mouthwash.

Human teeth are unique since one population’s dental pattern might differ from another. Such specific dental characteristics, such as the incisor, are observable in each dentition. Objective: his study analyzed the population differences in Javanese and Chinese-Indonesian populations through observations of the incisal traits, namely winging, shoveling, and double shoveling. Methods: 50 dental casts (76 Javanese samples and 74 ChineseIndonesian samples) were obtained from Dr. Myrtati Dyah Artaria’s private collection, stored in the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga. The traits were observed and scored using the Arizona State University Dental Anthropology System (ASUDAS) and analyzed statistically using crosstab and chi-square methods. Results: Only three out of 13 test results exhibit significant differences (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The dentitions observed in the Chinese-Indonesian samples mirror the immense Chinese acculturation into Javanese cultures through interbreeding that happened generations ago. The gene flow between these two populations appears phenotypically in the dentitions, leading the Chinese-Indonesian samples in this study to express Sundadont traits despite their noticeable facial traits and heritage.

Case report: This case report presents three successful approaches for preserving a tooth through root amputation or hemisection. Patients were referred to the Periodontic Department due to mobility of teeth and swelling of the upper left first molar, upper right first molar and lower right first molar with considerably good oral hygiene. Patients were diagnosed with generalized severe periodontitis associated with perio-endodontic lesions. Therefore, non-surgical root canal treatment (NSRCT) was carried out prior to periodontal treatment, followed by surgical root resection (RR) of the distobuccal (DB) root of the upper left first molar, root resection of the distobuccal (DB) root of the upper right first molar, while hemisection and amputation of the distal (D) root was performed on the lower right first molar. Upon 6-month and 1-year review, the teeth were asymptomatic and remained in function. Conclusion: This paper aims to portray the successful management of the period-endodontic lesion in the context of root resection and crown resection as a conservative method for retaining compromised teeth. The ability of RR to prolong the lifespan of compromised teeth and delay the need for more invasive interventions makes it an essential therapeutic option in contemporary dentistry.

The potential for Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in clinical dentistry remains vague and inadequately explored. Objectives: The study aims to obtain insight into the development of MOOCs in Fixed Partial Dental Prostheses (FPDPs) and to assess students’ learning preferences, module quality, and interface usability. Methods: The MOOCs was created by seven academicians with prosthodontic backgrounds. After completing the MOOCs and three complementary online discussion sessions, the students (n = 89) were invited to participate in an online survey. SPSS version 23 was used to calculate the frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation of categorical data (SD). Results: A total of 84.1% of students completed the survey. Six modules with five different FPDPs topics and a single implant topic were created for this MOOCs, which consists teaching and practical modules. 94.6% of respondents agreed that MOOCs can be used to supplement traditional T&L, with 64.9% preferring MOOCs to traditional classrooms. The majority of the items received a high mean score above 4.00, indicating that the majority of respondents were satisfied with the developed MOOC’s course content, usability, and interface. Conclusion: The majority of respondents agreed that the overall course content is well-organized and expressed positive feedback on integrating MOOCs into traditional classrooms.

Malocclusion’s negative impact is not only limited to dentofacial appearance but also related to quality of life. Nowadays, orthodontic treatment can be done using conventional fixed appliances, or removable appliances called clear aligners. The preference for orthodontic appliances can be affected by several factors, including patient characteristics, self-perception, psychosocial, and oral-disorder factors. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the factors affecting the preference for orthodontic appliances among undergraduate students in West Jakarta. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 244 undergraduate students were retrieved by purposive sampling from 7 universities located in West Jakarta. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data, and logistic regression analysis was carried out. Results: Fixed orthodontic appliances were commonly used (79.5%), and the majority of treatment providers were orthodontists (64.8%). Students’ belief that poor dental alignment is related to decreased social attractiveness was significantly associated with the preference for orthodontic appliances (p = 0.026; 95% CI = 1.170-11.317). Orthodontic treatment provider was significantly associated with a preference for orthodontic appliances (p = 0.000; 95% CI = 0.678-3.156). Conclusion: Fixed orthodontic appliances still become the main preference for malocclusion treatment among undergraduate students in West Jakarta. Besides that, the qualification of orthodontic treatment providers affects the preference for orthodontic appliances among undergraduate students in West Jakarta.