This narrative review comprehensively synthesizes laser technology’s clinical applications, advantages, and limitations in modern dentistry. The review of 67 articles published between 2018 and 2023 highlights the latest advancements, including photobiomodulation (PBM) for enhanced tissue healing and inflammation control, alongside innovative uses in implantology, endodontics, and teeth whitening. The findings underscore the transformative potential of lasers in improving dental treatment precision and patient outcomes while addressing the barriers to their widespread adoption, such as costs and training needs. This review emphasizes the integration of laser technology into routine clinical practice and identifies pathways for future innovations in dentistry.
(1) Background: This systematic review explores the bioactive properties of Punica granatum (pomegranate) and its potential applications in the prevention and treatment of gingivitis, periodontitis, and other oral diseases. (2) Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on pomegranate and oral diseases. Inclusion criteria included studies evaluating the effects of pomegranate on oral health, while exclusion criteria eliminated non-peer-reviewed and non-English articles. This review aims to assess the efficacy of pomegranate extracts as a natural alternative to synthetic pharmaceuticals in oral health care. A structured search strategy included key terms such as “pomegranate”, “oral health”, “gingivitis”, and “periodontitis”. A total of 125 relevant references were reviewed to identify the most pertinent findings. (3) Results: The results indicate that pomegranate extracts have demonstrated efficacy in reducing plaque, inhibiting harmful oral microorganisms, and promoting overall oral health. Furthermore, clinical studies highlight the potential of pomegranate-based products, such as mouthwashes and gels, as viable alternatives to conventional pharmaceuticals, particularly in resource-limited settings. However, the review also notes the need for further research, particularly in the form of clinical trials, to establish optimal formulations and long-term safety. (4) Conclusions: Pomegranate presents a promising, natural solution for preventing and treating gingivitis and periodontitis. Further studies should focus on long-term effects and clinical efficacy.
Dental anxiety is an intense and irrational fear of visiting the dentist or of undergoing dental procedures. Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of dental anxiety in children aged 6–11 years and to identify the importance of communication in reducing anxiety in pediatric patients. Methods: The research was conducted through a questionnaire administered to 101 students (55.4% girls and 44.6% boys), aged 6–11 years, from the North-West Region of Romania. The data collected included the age and gender of the subjects, their previous experiences with the dentist, the identification of factors that trigger anxiety, and the way in which patients perceive future dental visits. Results: This study found that for the majority of participants, a visit to the dentist does not represent a source of fear. Moreover, most children are eager to visit the dentist again. Gender and age did not have a significant effect on the prevalence of anxiety. Elements such as sitting in the dental chair, observing dental instruments, having the teeth examined with a mirror, and hearing the sounds produced by the instruments were identified as factors that may cause anxiety in pediatric patients. Conclusions: It was found that pediatric patients who have good communication with the practitioner display lower anxiety levels compared to those of others.
Stomatognathic dysfunctions, particularly bruxism, orofacial pain, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, are frequently associated with anxiety and depression. However, the reverse hypothesis that these dysfunctions may act as peripheral stressors contributing to neuropsychological imbalance by activating the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis remains underexplored. Objective: To assess the relationship between the severity of stomatognathic symptoms and both physiological and psychological stress markers to determine whether such dysfunctions may influence or exacerbate anxiety and depressive disorders. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 120 adult patients. Clinical assessment was included evaluation of TMJ function, bruxism, and orofacial pain. Psychological screening was performed using validated questionnaires (GAD-7 for anxiety and PHQ-9 for depression). Electromyographic (EMG) analysis of the masseter and temporalis muscles was conducted, along with the quantification of salivary cortisol using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Multiple regression models were applied to identify statistically significant correlations (p < 0.05). Results: A positive correlation was found between the severity of stomatognathic dysfunction and scores on anxiety and depression measures, along with elevated salivary cortisol levels and increased masticatory muscle activity. Conclusions: These findings suggest a bidirectional relationship between stomatognathic dysfunctions and neuropsychological status, underscoring the potential value of integrated therapeutic approaches that combine dental care with psychological support.
Background/Objectives: The effective management of dental practices is increasingly recognized as a key factor in ensuring high-quality care, efficient operations, and interdisciplinary collaboration. While many dentists assume managerial responsibilities, formal training in healthcare or dental practice management may influence the quality of these practices. This study aims to evaluate the differences in organization, efficiency, and quality of care between dental clinics managed by dentists who have completed management training and those who have not. It also explores dentists’ knowledge and attitudes regarding dental practice management. Methods: A cross-sectional, observational, case–control study was conducted between 14 April and 14 May 2023, using an online questionnaire distributed to licensed dental practitioners in Romania. A total of 136 dentists participated, divided into a study group (n = 60), who had completed management courses and a control group (n = 76) who had not. Descriptive statistics and comparative analyses (t-tests, Chi-square tests) were performed using SPSS version 24, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Dentists with managerial training demonstrated greater implementation of strategic planning, financial performance monitoring, quality management, and use of digital tools. They also reported higher collaboration with interdisciplinary professionals—orthodontist 76.7% in the study group vs. 63.2% in the control group, medical assistant 78.3% in the study group vs. 47.4% in the control group, front desk 43.3% in the study group vs. 18.4% in the control group; better delegation of tasks—61.7% in the study group vs. 27.6% in the control group; and greater concern for team development—95% in the study group vs. 71% in the control group; and patient rights—81.7% in the study group vs. 75% in the control group. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were noted in management practices, opinions about the optimal manager for a dental practice, and the use of software tools. Conclusions: Managerial training equips dentists with critical skills for enhancing operational efficiency and care quality. Integrating management education into dental curricula and continuing professional development can substantially improve the sustainability and performance of dental practices.
Dental caries remains one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide, driven by complex interactions among dietary, hygienic, and biological factors. This study introduces a hybrid predictive framework that integrates mathematical modelling and artificial intelligence (AI) to estimate individual caries risk based on daily sugar intake, oral hygiene index, salivary pH, fluoride exposure, age, and sex. A first-order balance differential equation was applied to simulate demineralisation–remineralisation dynamics, while a feed-forward artificial neural network (ANN) was trained on simulated and literature-derived datasets. The hybrid model demonstrated strong predictive performance, achieving 91.2% accuracy and an AUC of 0.98 in classifying individuals into low-, moderate-, and high-risk categories. Sensitivity analysis identified sugar intake and oral hygiene as dominant determinants, while fluoride and salivary pH showed protective effects. These findings highlight the feasibility of combining mechanistic and data-driven approaches to enhance early risk assessment and support the development of intelligent, personalised screening tools in preventive dentistry.