Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly advancing in Endodontics, particularly through the application of neural networks and deep learning models, that help in identifying complex root canal morphology and configurations, thereby enhancing diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning. This study aimed to assess the awareness of Indian Endodontists regarding AI applications in determining root canal morphology and configuration. An online survey-based questionnaire was distributed to practicing Endodontists across India using Google Forms, and their responses were recorded. Chi-square test was used to study the association of independent and dependent variables. A survey of 338 practicing endodontists and postgraduate students revealed that less than half were aware of AI models such as Artificial Neural Networks (43.8 %) and Deep Learning (35.2 %). The majority (68.3 %) were partially aware of AI applications in endodontics. About 37.9 % considered AI as "fairly feasible" for daily endodontic clinical practice, and 82.5 % agreed that AI technology can enhance endodontic treatment success rates (p < 0.001). However, 60.90 % of the endodontists did not consider themselves trained for operating AI models, and 91.10 % never used any AI models or software (p < 0.001). Additionally, 89.30 % of the participants expressed the need for training programs and workshops on the use of AI in determining root canal morphology (p < 0.001). Most Endodontists do not have sufficient knowledge to use AI models and do not employ AI software to identify root canal morphology and configuration. This study highlights the necessity for proper training for endodontists to improve the use of AI in determining root canal morphology and configuration.

Dental caries is the most common unmet dental need of children with special health-care needs (SHCNs), and their treatment is challenging in routine dental settings. Based on surplus evidence, silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a simple, safe, cost-effective, and efficient topical solution for treating dental caries. It is a clear, colorless, odorless fluoride-containing solution, does not require an extensive armamentarium for its application, and can be used in any setting. However, even with worldwide acceptance, there occurs limited research regarding SDF use in children with special needs. This review aims to update the possibilities and acceptability of SDF usage in patients with special needs with dental caries as a promising option for managing dental caries and improving their quality of life.

Two-way relationship. This Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) study was undertaken to identify the gaps in awareness about diabetes mellitus and its association with oral health. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the KAPs of diabetics and nondiabetics (ND) regarding the bidirectional relationship between diabetes and oral health. Methodology: This study was conducted at a tertiary dental care institute wherein 75 diabetics, both Type I and II and 75 ND were enrolled. A questionnaire was administered by the investigators, in which responses to various questions regarding their demographics, KAPs in the context of oral health and diabetes were collected. The Chi-Square test was utilized for statistical analysis. Results: 27.3% of respondents had no knowledge about the bidirectional relationship between diabetes and oral health. Although the majority (69.3%) considered regular dental check-ups to be important for good oral health, they were found to be lacking in their practices, where 51.3% followed once a day brushing routine and 71.3% did not know about flossing or interdental cleaning. Conclusion: The study highlights the gaps in KAPs of people regarding the bidirectional relationship between diabetes and oral health and thus emphasizes the need for educational interventions at the community level....

Introduction: Dentists are prone to ocular injuries from chemical, physical, or infectious agents. While most dentists wear masks, gloves, and gowns, eye protection continues to be neglected. Thus, this study was undertaken to identify these gaps in awareness and practices of eye safety among dentists. Aim: This study aims to evaluate and compare the knowledge and practices of hospital and private dental practitioners regarding eye protection in clinical practice. Methodology: A questionnaire designed to assess the eye safety knowledge and practices of dentists was validated and mailed to hospital dental practitioners and private dental practitioners (100 each), from the National Capital Region over 6 months. Data collected were subjected to Chi-square analysis for comparing knowledge and practices of the two groups. Results: Dentists were found to be lacking in their practices with 48.5% using eye protection sometimes and 5.5% never using it, although their knowledge however revealed otherwise. Sixty-eight percent of dentists never or rarely used eye protection for their patients. 40.5% dentists had at least one incident of ocular trauma due to inadequate eye protection while 26% had at least 5 such incidents. Conclusion: The study highlights the gaps in the knowledge and practices of dentists regarding eye protection thus, emphasizing the need for creating more awareness, more so in the coronavirus disease of 2019 era, to prevent further transmission of infections.