Margaretha Suharsini

Relationship between inter-molar, inter-canine, and inter-gonion widths in children aged 6–9 years

The mixed dentition stage of tooth development is critical as it often involves changes in the inter-molar and inter-canine widths of the dental arch, which may affect the inter-gonion width. It was hypothesized that the relationship between the inter-molar, inter-canine, and inter-gonion widths could be used to estimate the width of the dental arch, thus allowing better treatment planning. This research aimed to determine the relationship between the inter-molar, inter-canine, and inter-gonion widths in children aged 6–9 years old. This cross-sectional study used 30 study models and panoramic radiographic images of pediatric patients in Teaching Dental Hospital, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia. The results showed that the inter-molar and inter-gonion widths and the inter-canine and inter-gonion widths exhibited weak correlations that were not statistically significant (r = 0.277, r = 0.032, respectively). However, the inter-molar and inter-canine widths demonstrated a strong, statistically significant correlation (r = 0.580).

Perception of dental visit pictures in children with autism spectrum disorder and their caretakers: A qualitative study

Objectives: One of the most common ways to communicate to children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is by using pictures. This study was conducted to identify the easiest perception of dental visit by children with ASD when using pictures as printed photographs. Materials and Methods: Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants from a school for children with special needs in south Jakarta. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 autistic children aged 13–17 years, 2 parents, and 2 teachers. Open-ended questions were asked to participants regarding pictures of dental clinic personnel and activity. Conversations were noted, tape recorded, and then categorized to extract a theme. The data were analyzed using Dedoose mixed methods software. Results: Most respondents showed a positive perception of the dental visit pictures. Many of the pictures were easily recognized by children with ASD, but some failed to be understood. Caretakers not only gave their perception but also recommendations for improvement of the pictures. Conclusions: Dental visit pictures could be used as useful communication tools for children with ASD. Based on the results, the pictures related to dental visit were generally easy to understand, however, some needed correction to be comprehensible.