Ozgur Onder Kuscu

Short-term effect of ice-cream containing Bifidobacterium lactis Bb-12 on the number of salivary mutans streptococci and lactobacilli

Objective. Probiotic bacteria are thought to reduce the risk of some infectious diseases. The aim of the present study was to examine whether or not short-term consumption of ice-cream containing bifidobacteria can affect the salivary levels of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in young adults. Material and methods. A double-blind, randomized crossover study was performed and 24 healthy subjects (mean age 20 years) were followed over 4 periods. During periods 2 and 4 (10 days each), they ingested 100 ml (53 g) ice-cream containing Bifidobacterium lactis Bb-12 once daily or a control ice-cream without viable bacteria. Periods 1 and 3 were run-in and washout periods, respectively. Salivary mutans streptococci and lactobacilli were enumerated with chair-side kits at baseline and immediately after the intervention period. Results. A statistically significant reduction (p<0.05) of salivary mutans streptococci was recorded after consumption of the probiotic ice-cream. A decline of high mutans streptococci counts was also seen after intake of the control ice-cream, but the difference compared to baseline was not statistically significant. The salivary lactobacilli levels were unaltered after both regimes. Conclusions. Daily consumtion of ice-cream containing probiotic bifidobacteria may reduce the salivary levels of mutans streptococci in young adults.

The prevalence of molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) in a group of children in a highly polluted urban region and a windfarm-green energy island

BACKGROUND Childrens developing teeth may be sensitive to environmental pollutants such as polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans. The term molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) was introduced to describe the clinical appearance of enamel hypomineralization of systemic origin affecting one or more permanent first molars (PFMs) that are associated frequently with affected incisors. AIM The aim of this study was to determine the prevalance of MIH in children from the most industrialized and polluted region and the most green-energy island of Turkey. DESIGN In September 2007, a retrospective study was initiated in two elementary schools: one, a group of children (N = 153) who fitted the criteria from Tavsancil, Kocaeli (N = 109) and the other from Bozcaada island, Canakkale (N = 44). The soil samples were collected from selected regions in order to determine the contamination levels in a heavily industrialized area and a non-industrialized area. RESULTS Prevalance of MIH in children in Bozcaada island was 9.1%, while prevalance of MIH was 9.2% in Tavsancil. The PCDD/F levels in soil samples collected from Bozcaada and Tavsancil were determined as 1,12 and 8,4 I-TEQ ng/kg dry soil, respectively (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In this preliminary study with a small study population, prevalence of MIH did not seem to be associated with the levels of PCDD/Fs in the environment.

Viability of fibroblasts in a novel probiotic storage media

A number of storage media have been investigated as to their ability to maintain the viability of the periodontal ligament (PDL) cells and thus to permit longer extra-alveolar periods prior to replantation of avulsed teeth. The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the number of viable PDL cells of avulsed teeth treated by Hanks Balanced Salt Solutions (HBSS), saline, a novel probiotic solution and milk. Thirty-six freshly extracted single-rooted human teeth with closed apices were divided into one of the four experimental groups and two control groups (N = 6 each). The positive and negative controls corresponded to 0 min and an 8-h dry time respectively. Following extraction, the coronal 3 mm of PDL tissue was scraped with a #15 scalpel to remove cells that might have been damaged. The experimental teeth were dried for 30 min followed by a 45 min immersion in one of the four experimental media. Each experimental tooth, after drying and soaking, was incubated for 30 min with a 2.5 ml solution of 0.2 mg ml(-1) of collagenase CLS II and a 2.4 mg ml(-1) solution of dispase grade II in phosphate buffer saline (PBS). The cells were then labelled with 0.4% Trypan blue for determination of viability. The teeth stored in positive control demonstrated the highest number of viable PDL cells followed in rank order by HBSS, saline, Lactobacillus reuteri solution and milk. There was no significant difference in the number of viable PDL cells between HBSS, milk, L. reuteri solution and saline. Within the parameters of this study, it appears that probiotic may be able to maintain PDL cell viability as HBSS, milk, or saline.

Association of amoxicillin use and molar incisor hypomineralization in piglets: Visual and mineral density evaluation

AIM The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of MIH both visually and quantitatively, and describes the range of mineral densities of enamel specimens from three groups of piglets where two groups were given different doses of amoxicillin in infancy. METHODS In this blind randomized clinical study, 20 piglets were randomly divided into three groups. Group A received a standard dose (50mg/kg/day) and Group B received a high dose (90mg/kg/day) of amoxicillin in selected days of the month (20 working days) they were born. Group K did not receive any medication and served as control. Thirteen right mandibular permanent first molars (PFMs) were randomly collected from 3 groups of piglets at age 10 months for evaluation under X-ray micro-tomography. Tomographic data were obtained using a Skyscan 1174 compact micro-CT in the Department of Anatomy. RESULTS Prevalence of MIH was 0% in all groups. MD values were quantified after enamel grey level (0-255) measurements on horizontal cross-sectional slices. After MD measurements, the effects of amoxicillin use on MIH are presented. CONCLUSIONS While MIH is a multifactorial disturbance, the present study attempted to highlight the clinical findings of a possible relationship between amoxicillin use and MIH with the aid of X-ray micro-tomography.

Preferences of dentist’s attire in a group of Istanbul school children related with dental anxiety

AIM: This was to assess children’s preferences for each of four different kinds of dental attire and to consider the relationship between children’s preferences and levels of dental anxiety. METHODS: A group of 827 children aged 9–14 years looked at anonymised photographs and were asked to say which of four dental attires they would prefer their dentists to wear “if they had been to a dental clinic”. Children’s Fear Survey Schedule — Dental Subscale (CFSS-DS) was used to evaluate the children’s anxiety level. RESULTS: Formal attire was the first preference for 45.6 % of the children (n: 377), followed by the child-friendly attire with a preference of 30.5% (n:144). There were 350 children (42.3%) who were diagnosed as anxious (CFSS-DS ≥32) and 477 children (57.7%) were diagnosed as non-anxious (CFSS-DS <32). Anxious children were found to prefer the formal attire significantly less than non-anxious ones (p=0.010). CONCLUSIONS: The popular view that children are fearful of white coats was not found in this survey. More children were observed to prefer the formal attire. However, the concept of “child-friendly” attire might be more appropriate for anxious children and enhance an easy first communication with them.

Prevalence of dental erosion in Greek minority school children in Istanbul

AIM: To evaluate the prevalence and aetiology of dental erosion in Greek minority school children living in Istanbul (Turkey). METHODS: The present study was initiated in four Greek minority elementary schools in Istanbul where a total of 83 children (46 girls, 37 boys) between ages 7–14 years old were examined. Children were categorised into 7–11 and 12–14 ages groups. Data were obtained by clinical examination, questionnaire and standard data records. All tooth surfaces were examined, dental erosion was recorded per tooth and classified according to the index of Lussi et al. [1996] RESULTS: In the 7–11 yrs old group, 47.4% (n:18) of the children exhibited dental erosion while in 12–14 yrs old group, 52.6% (n:20) of the children exhibited dental erosion. There were no statitistical differences between age, gender groups and findings of dental erosion (p>0.05). However prevalence of dental erosion in 12–14 yrs old was twice that of the 7–11 years old children. In general, an unusual drinking pattern of slow swallowing of beverages significantly affected the prevalence of dental erosion (p=0.03). CONCLUSION: Multiple regression analysis revealed no relationship between dental erosion and related erosive sources such as medical conditions, brushing habits, swimming, and the consumption of acidic fruit juices and beverages (p>0.05). However it should be noted that the sample size in the current study was small.

Do American football players in Turkey protect themselves from dental or orofacial trauma

BACKGROUND/AIMS Dental and orofacial trauma in contact sports differs from other sources, as it is possible to prevent it and reduce the dental and orofacial trauma by using protection devices. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of dental or orofacial trauma in American football players of Turkey National League as well as to investigate if the players were aware of mouthguards (MGs) and had used any. MATERIAL AND METHODS An epidemiological survey was carried out through interviews with 78 American football players in four clubs competing in Turkey National League. Thirteen players had already been affected by orofacial trauma. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Results revealed that 67 of 78 Turkish-American football players were aware of MG, while 46 of 78 players also demonstrated its use. It should be concluded that from the moment a youngster starts practising football, he should be encouraged to wear an MG to get used to the sensation and, would automatically consider it as a part of the game. A great responsibility lies on dentists, to inform their patients about the importance of wearing MG and the consequences, if it is not worn.

Orofacial and dental injuries of snowboarders in Turkey

BACKGROUND/AIMS Snowboard riding has increased in popularity during the last decade and is also remarkable for its dramatic rise in association with serious injuries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nature of dental or orofacial trauma in snowboard riders in Turkey, as well as to investigate if adolescent and young adult snowboard riders were aware of any protective measures. METHODS An epidemiological survey was carried out through interviews with 86 snowboard riders in Turkey. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Seventeen snowboard riders had been affected by orofacial trauma. Results revealed that all snowboarders were aware of helmet protection whereas 50 out of 86 (58%) reported that they used them. It should be concluded that from the moment a youngster begins to practice snowboard riding, (s)he should be encouraged to wear a helmet and a properly fitted mouthguard as part of the necessary protection for them to safely enjoy their sport.

A Quantitative Analysis of a Probiotic Storage Media for Avulsed Teeth

AIM The aim of the present in vitro study was to investigate the potential of a storage medium, probiotic yogurt (Bifidibacterium animalis DN 173010) in comparison with Hanks balanced salt solution (HBSS), saline and milk in maintaining viable periodontal ligament (PDL) cells on simulated avulsed teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-six freshly extracted single-rooted human teeth with closed apices were divided into six experimental groups (N=6). The teeth were extracted as atraumatically as possible and washed in sterile saline solution to eliminate residual blood. Following extractions, the coronal 3 mm of PDL tissues were scraped with a #15 scalpel to remove cells that may have been damaged. The positive and negative controls corresponded to 0 minutes and an 8-hour dry time, respectively. After extraction, the positive control teeth were immediately treated with dispase and collagenase. The negative control teeth were bench-dried for 8 h, with no follow-up storage solution time, and then placed in the dispase and collagenase. The number of viable protective least significant difference PDL cells were counted under a light microscope with a hemocytometer at 20× magnification and analyzed. Statistical analysis of the data was accomplished using Nonparametric ANOVA complemented by Kruskal-Wallis Test and Dunns Multiple Comparisons Test. RESULTS Positive control was found to be significantly better than the others, there were statistically significant differences between positive control and other test groups (p=0.000). The teeth stored in positive control demonstrated the highest number of viable PDL cells followed in order by probiotic yogurt, HBSS, saline and milk. CONCLUSION Bifidibacterium animalis DN 173010 seems to be an alternative for the temporary storage of avulsed teeth, due to high number of viable PDL cells. Probiotics may be suitable transport media for avulsed teeth, but further research is warranted using the commercially available products.

Four year Evaluation of Proximal Resin Infiltration in Adolescents

AIM Resin infiltration of proximal lesions is a new approach to stopping caries progression. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate four-year efficacy of proximal infiltrates in adolescents. MATERIALS AND METHODS In ten adolescents, a total of 21 proximal infiltrates (ICON® (DMG, Germany) were applied to initial proximal lesions of permanent incisors and premolars according to the manufacturers instruction. The clinical quality of resin infiltration was assessed at 1 week, 1, 2, 3 and 4 years after the treatment and the evaluation of the therapeutic effect was analyzed by radiographs. RESULTS Ten patients were followed up clinically for four years. The majority of the infiltrated lesions were located on permanent incisors. Teeth which were proximally infiltrated did not exhibit dental plaque and gingival bleeding in most cases. At annual recalls, plaque scores remained constant. The gingival status remained steady and no differences in tooth shape and contour were detected. Discoloration was detected in four teeth (19%) in 1st year recall and was constant at annual intervals. The radiographic evaluation of the bitewing radiographs showed no progression in 21 lesions (100%) from baseline to the 4-year recall. Overall oral hygiene of the patients was satisfactory. CONCLUSION In conclusion, proximal infiltration is an effective prophylactic measure in adolescents.