Background/Objectives: This study aims to compare the effects of conventional surgical techniques and laser-assisted methods on salivary oxidative stress biomarkers following third molar extraction, in order to evaluate the potential benefits of laser surgery in reducing oxidative stress and promoting faster recovery. Methods: A total of 154 patients, aged 16–30, undergoing third molar extractions were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups: conventional surgery (n = 75) and laser-assisted surgery (n = 79). Saliva samples were collected at baseline, and 24, 48, 72, and 168 h postoperatively. The levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) were measured as indicators of oxidative stress. Results: Initial biomarker levels were similar across all participants. Postoperative oxidative stress increased in both groups, with significantly higher levels in the conventional surgery group at 48 and 72 h. Salivary biomarkers of oxidative stress were significantly lower in the laser group at 48 and 72 h post-surgery (p < 0.05), indicating a faster recovery. By 168 h, biomarker levels in the laser group had nearly returned to baseline, whereas levels in the conventional group remained slightly elevated. Conclusions: Laser-assisted surgery significantly reduces oxidative stress and promotes faster recovery when compared with conventional methods, as evidenced by the more rapid normalization of salivary biomarkers. These findings suggest that laser techniques may offer superior clinical outcomes in third molar extractions.

Respiratory infections are the most common infectious diseases among children, representing a cause of death and generating a significant number of hospitalisations. The aim of the study was to analyse the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of viral pathogens causing respiratory tract infections in newborns and young children admitted to Galati pediatric hospital between October 2022 and December 2023. The diagnosis was performed using multiplex RT-PCR panels, which allowed simultaneous identification of respiratory pathogens (viruses and bacteria). From a total of 803 hospitalised patients with respiratory diseases, 607 (75.6%) children had a positive result for at least one respiratory virus and 96 patients (11.9%) were identified with bacterial infections. Mixed coinfections were found in almost half of the patients (44.5%). Most of RSV positive children had an increased length of stay, more than 7 days. It was shown a decline in severe cases of viral respiratory infections with prolonged hospitalisation as patients age up to 5 years.

This article explores the correlation between salivary biomarkers, such as glutathione peroxidase (GPX), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and their association with oral health for children in competitive sports. Saliva has emerged as a valuable resource for evaluating physiological and pathological conditions due to its non-invasive collection method and easy storage. This study examines the potential of GPX, TAC, and SOD as salivary biomarkers for assessing the impact of competitive sports on children’s oral health. It discusses the potential implications of increased oxidative stress due to intense physical activity and the role of antioxidant defense mechanisms in maintaining oral health. In total, 173 children aged between 6 and 17 were divided into three groups, 58 hockey players, 55 football players, and 60 in the control group, and examined to assess their oral hygiene and dental and periodontal health. Saliva was collected, centrifuged, and the supernatant was analyzed for the relevant biomarkers. The findings seem to suggest that salivary biomarkers, like GPX, TAC, and SOD, might serve as indicators of the physiological response to competitive sports in children, as well as indicators of oral health, especially dental cavities, and periodontal disease. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between the groups, with better values for athletes, regardless of age, sex, or activity type. Understanding the relationship between salivary biomarkers and competitive sports in children can have significant implications for monitoring and optimizing the health and performance of young athletes. Further research is needed to establish the specific associations between these biomarkers and the effects of several types and intensities of sports activities on oral health in children.