In recent decades, there has been significant growth in research focused on biocompatible materials, particularly in the field of materials science and engineering. The primary advantages of these materials are their biocompatibility, bioactivity, and antibacterial properties. Consequently, there has been a growing utilization of bioceramic sealers in the field of endodontics. This study investigated the amounts of bioactive elements in dentin in contact with the AH Plus^® Bioceramic Sealer (Dentsply, Konstanz, Germany). The results were qualitatively evaluated by examining scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and elemental mapping and quantitatively by determining element weight (wt%) and atomic (at%) percentages obtained from EDX analysis. The AH Plus^® Bioceramic Sealer demonstrated notable bioactivity through its dynamic contact with dentin at the root level.

The success of endodontic treatment depends on the correct use of materials during the cleaning and filling of the root canal system. The field of endodontics is constantly evolving with the introduction of new procedures and materials. Despite the continuous development of a wide range of chemical solutions and the introduction of new materials in endodontics, driven by the advances in state-of-the-art technologies, there is still a lack of data on how these advances are adapted to the daily practice of Romanian dentists in this field. The aim of this cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was the evaluation of current trends in endodontic practice, focusing on the materials used by dentists throughout Romania, performed by a number of dentists who graduated from universities in the Northern, Southern, Eastern, Western, and Central zones of Romania. The questions were about the irrigants used, the interim medication, the type of sealant, the filling technique, and the number of endodontic treatment sessions. The majority of participants in the research were general practitioners and endodontists, with some dentists of different specialties performing endodontic treatments in their practices. Statistical analyses were performed using DATAtab version 2024 software. The results obtained from this study provide a valuable resource and database for researchers to access a wide range of information and an apparent trend towards high-performance endodontic materials used in Romania.

Dental adhesives play a crucial role in modern dentistry by enabling the bonding of diverse restorative materials to tooth surfaces. These systems have evolved through seven generations, each characterized by unique chemical compositions and application techniques. The advancements in dental adhesives have significantly impacted restorative dentistry by preserving tooth structure, enhancing aesthetics, and ultimately improving patient outcomes and treatment options. The choice of adhesive system depends on various factors, including the clinical scenario, material compatibility, and dentist preference. Ongoing advancements in adhesive technology continue to enhance treatment outcomes and streamline procedures for dental practitioners. The development of universal adhesives capable of functioning in both etch-and-rinse and self-etch modes has further simplified clinical protocols. This study is an observational cross-sectional study conducted among Romanian dentists. A questionnaire was distributed via email to Romanian dentists, encompassing seven questions that explored the predominant use of etch-and-rinse or self-etch adhesive systems, preferred adhesive types, and commonly encountered challenges in direct restorations. Statistical analyses were conducted using DATAtab version (2024). The study highlighted the varying preferences among Romanian dentists in selecting suitable adhesive agents. Etch-and-rinse (ER) techniques predominated in direct restorations, with universal adhesives being the most frequently used. Further investigation is warranted to delve into the preferences of Romanian dentists regarding the utilization of self-etch (SE), etch-and-rinse (ER), and universal adhesives (UAs).

Background/Objectives: Dental anxiety in children is a common issue that can hinder the delivery of effective dental care. Traditional approaches to managing this are often insufficient or involve pharmacological interventions. This study shows the potential of virtual reality (VR) to aid in reducing anxiety in children undergoing simple dental procedures. By immersing children in relaxing VR environments (such as beaches, forests, mountains, or underwater scenes with calm music), the objective is to assess VR’s effectiveness in calming pediatrics patients during these procedures. Methods: Children scheduled for minor dental treatments wore a wearable device that monitored pulse, perspiration, and stress levels. Each child’s baseline data was collected without the VR headset, followed by data collection during VR exposure before and during dental procedures. VR scenarios ranged from soothing nature scenes to animated cartoons, designed to foster relaxation. Results: The data collected showed a reduction in physiological indicators of stress, such as lower heart rate and reduced perspiration, when the VR headset was used. Children appeared more relaxed, with a calmer response during the procedure itself, compared to baseline levels without VR. Conclusions: This study provides preliminary evidence supporting VR as an effective tool for reducing anxiety and stress in pediatric dental patients. By offering an engaging, immersive experience, VR can serve as an alternative or complementary approach to traditional anxiety management strategies in pediatric dentistry, potentially improving patient comfort and cooperation during dental procedures. Further research could determine if VR may serve as an alternative to local anesthesia for non-intrusive pediatric dental procedures.

Background/Objectives: The prevalence of dental caries in Romania is significantly high, especially among children and adolescents. We aimed to assess the prevalence of dental caries and their associated factors among schoolchildren aged 6–11 years learning at urban and rural schools from Mureş County, Romania. Methods: This cross-sectional study included a sample of 1124 children, aged 6–8 years (n = 524), as well as aged 9–11 years (n = 600). Nine schools in Mureş County, Romania, were selected for screening, based on their location (4 schools from urban areas and 5 schools from rural areas). Data were collected based on children’s visual dental screenings and a self-administered questionnaire addressed to their parents to collect information about oral health behaviors, sugar consumption, and dental care history. Dental clinical examination was performed by specialists, and DMFT/dmft values were recorded. Binary logistic and negative binomial regression analyses were used to assess the factors associated with dental caries. Results: Among 6–8-year-olds, the prevalence of untreated decay was 76.5% and the prevalence of caries experience was 77.7% (mean dmft = 3.9). Among 9–11-year-olds, the prevalence of untreated decay was 43.5% and the prevalence of caries experience was 48.2% (mean DMFT = 1.9). Among the most significant factors associated with caries prevalence were school location (p = 0.04 for children aged 6–8 years, and p < 0.001 for 9–11 years); the employment status of mothers (p = 0.04 for 9–11 years); eating sweets ≥4 times/day (p = 0.04 for 6–8 years); brushing time ≥3 min (p = 0.03 for 9–11 years); as well as past dental restorative treatments or emergency (p < 0.001 for all the children examined). Conclusions: Preventive measures and innovative educational interventions are needed to mitigate the impact of dental caries prevalence on the health and education of schoolchildren.

The role of social media in communication between doctors and patients hasbecome increasingly important, especially in the context of technologicalevolution and the increased need for quick access to information.Accessibility and fast and always updated information, strengthening doctorpatienttrust through positive testimonials that show the doctor's involvement, theuse of platforms for the purpose of transmitting educational informationregarding disease prevention through videos, infographics or live sessions,adopting a healthy lifestyle, the possibility of online consultations, are just some ofthe advantages of using social media in doctor-patient interaction. In a digital erain which social media plays a central role in everyday life, the effectivemanagement of communication with patients on these platforms can bringmultiple benefits, but also involve certain challenges. Communication withpatients through social media, when done correctly, can significantly improve thepatient experience and contribute to their education and support.