Ayla Arikan

Comparison of three different treatment methods for generalized denture stomatitis

This study compared the effects of fluconazole, fluconazole plus chlorhexidine, and placing new dentures for the treatment of generalized simple denture stomatitis. Subjects with clinical evidence of generalized simple denture stomatitis were investigated clinically and myocologically. These 45 patients were divided into three groups. The first group was given 50 mg of fluconazole in tablet form once a day for 2 weeks. The second groups were instructed to apply chlorhexidine solution to the inner surface of the denture twice a day in addition to the fluconazole treatment for 2 weeks. New dentures were made for the third group. Palatal swabs and smears were taken from each subject before, immediately after, and 2 weeks after treatment and these samples were examined myocologically. It was found that for generalized simple denture stomatitis, treatment with fluconazole in conjunction with chlorhexidine resulted in greater improvement of palatal inflammation and a decrease in candidal colonization than that with fluconazole alone or making new dentures without medication.

General health, dental status and perceived dental treatment needs of an elderly population in Istanbul

BACKGROUND Comprehensive data on the oral health status and dental treatment needs of the elderly population in Turkey are deficient. OBJECTIVES This pilot study determined the general and dental health status, perceived medical and dental treatment needs of an elderly population dwelling in residential homes in Istanbul. METHOD Subjects at three different residential homes, namely one belonging to the state and two supported by foundations in Istanbul (N=121, female: 63 and male: 58) were involved in this study. A detailed questionnaire was prepared and dental examinations were conducted. Information was collected related to age, education levels, financial status, current physical functional status, general health, mental health, previous dental history, current dental status, oral hygiene practices and denture hygiene of these elderly people. The prevalence of edentulism, the presence and type of dental prostheses, dental and denture status and denture cleanliness were further evaluated. RESULTS The three most prevalent reported general health problems were associated with genito-urinary problems (24%) followed by cardiovascular (18%) and respiratory problems (14%) varying significantly between genders, with males suffering more from cardiovascular problems than females (p < 0.05). Females showed significantly higher gastrointestinal and orthopaedic problems than males (p < 0.05). Females were more frequently edentulous than males but denture hygiene was significantly better in females than in males (p < 0.05). Brushing frequency did not significantly increase denture hygiene (p = 0.6). More than one-third of the subjects had not been to the dentist within the previous 5-10 years, mainly due to lack of demand, followed by the cost of the dental care and fear. More than two-thirds of denture-wearing subjects wore their dentures only during eating. CONCLUSIONS There was significant perceived dental treatment and care need for the sample population of elderly studied.

The use of a stent-resin-bonded splint combination to stabilize a free gingival autograft

This article describes the use of a resin-bonded retainer in combination with an acrylic resin stent to stabilize a free gingival graft. This retainer also prevents migration of muscle attachment after surgery to deepen a section of the vestibule where the oral mucosa closely approached the gingival margin. The acrylic resin stent is attached to the resin-bonded retainer by means of an integrally cast metal framework. After surgery, the retainer is attached to the occlusal two thirds of the buccal surfaces of maxillary molar teeth by using the acid-etched resin bonding technique. The stent effectively retains the graft, is simple to fit, and does not cause any permanent damage to the enamel. It has none of the disadvantages of conventional removable acrylic resin stents.