Asian Journal of Dental and Health Sciences

The Relationship Between Dental Caries and Malocclusion and the Quality of Life of Preschool Children

2025-08-12T00:10:03-04:00

Background: Preschool children are one of the groups at high risk of having health problems. Based on data from the Indonesian Health Survey (SKI) in 2023, the prevalence of caries in the 3-4 years age group was 78.3%, while in the 5-9 years age group it was 85.8%. Dental health problems such as caries and malocclusion will disrupt the function and activity of the oral cavity so that it will affect nutritional status and will have an impact on the quality of life of preschool children. Objective: To determine the relationship between dental caries and malocclusion with the quality of life in preschool children Method: This type of observational analytical study with a cross-sectional design. The sampling technique was carried out by purposive sampling and obtained a total of 50 respondents. Univariate data analysis with descriptive analysis, Bivariate analysis using chi-square correlation. Results: There is a relationship between dental caries and the quality of life of preschool children (p = 0.030). There is a relationship between malocclusion and the quality of life of children (p = 0.005). Conclusion: There is a relationship between dental caries and malocclusion with the quality of life of preschool children.

Keywords: dental caries, malocclusion, ECOHIS, quality of life of preschool children

Nitrogen Balance and Its Impact on Hematological Function in Sickle Cell Patients: A Review

2025-03-14T23:52:21-04:00

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a chronic genetic disorder marked by recurrent hemolysis, anemia, and vaso-occlusive events, all of which significantly elevate the body's metabolic and nutritional demands. Among the critical nutritional parameters, nitrogen balance—reflecting the equilibrium between nitrogen intake and excretion—emerges as a key indicator of protein metabolism and tissue maintenance. Patients with SCD often face challenges in maintaining adequate nitrogen balance due to chronic inflammation, increased erythropoietic drive, and elevated protein turnover, particularly during disease exacerbations or infections. Negative nitrogen balance in SCD is associated with several hematological complications, including impaired hemoglobin synthesis, decreased red blood cell production, and weakened immune defense. The continuous need for red blood cell replacement due to chronic hemolysis further amplifies the demand for amino acids, making protein sufficiency essential for effective hematopoiesis. Furthermore, nitrogen depletion can worsen the overall clinical picture by contributing to growth delays in children, reduced physical endurance, and increased frequency of hospital admissions.

Keywords: Nitrogen balance, hematological function, sickle cell disease, protein metabolism, anemia

Nitric Oxide Bioavailability and Vascular Dysfunction in Sickle Cell Patients: A Pathophysiological Nexus

2025-06-14T23:22:19-04:00

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder characterized by chronic hemolytic anemia, recurrent vaso-occlusive crises, and progressive organ damage. One of the central mechanisms driving vascular complications in SCD is the impaired bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO), a key molecule responsible for regulating vascular tone, inhibiting platelet aggregation, and maintaining endothelial integrity. The persistent intravascular hemolysis that occurs in SCD releases free hemoglobin and arginase into the circulation, which significantly reduces NO levels and limits its physiological effects. Reduced NO availability leads to endothelial dysfunction, characterized by vasoconstriction, increased leukocyte adhesion, and a pro-thrombotic state. These vascular changes not only contribute to acute events such as pain crises and acute chest syndrome but also underlie long-term complications including pulmonary hypertension, stroke, and chronic organ damage. Oxidative stress and inflammation further disrupt NO synthesis by impairing endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity and uncoupling its function, creating a vicious cycle of vascular injury.

Keywords: Nitric oxide, sickle cell disease, vascular dysfunction, hemolysis, endothelial health

Instrument Retrieval in Endodontics: A Literature Review

2025-05-29T07:00:50-04:00

Instrument separation poses a notable challenge in endodontic therapy, with occurrence rates between 2% and 6%. While a separated instrument does not automatically equate to treatment failure, it can hinder complete debridement and obturation, which might result in bacterial survival and inflammatory responses. This review of the literature examines the various factors that contribute to instrument separation, including mechanical fatigue, instrument design, and clinical aspects such as canal curvature and operator experience and evaluates the current methods available for retrieving these instruments. These methods encompass mechanical techniques (e.g., ultrasonics, retrieval kits), chemical solutions (e.g., EDTA), and surgical procedures when non-surgical methods are ineffective. Advances in technology, including improved magnification, ultrasonic devices, and platforms like Endo Rescue, have enhanced retrieval success rates. Additionally, bioceramic materials and CAD/CAM-assisted restorations provide better outcomes following retrieval. Nonetheless, challenges persist, including the risk of root perforation, tooth fractures, and the presence of retained fragments. The success of the retrieval process depends on the position and size of the fragment, the anatomy of the canal, and the clinician's expertise. Research indicates that the presence of a retained instrument may not significantly impact prognosis when apical periodontitis is absent, though outcomes worsen in cases with infection. Ultimately, the clinician’s expertise, proficiency, and the integration of modern tools are crucial for effective management. Ongoing research and continuous professional development are vital for enhancing retrieval methods and improving patient results in endodontics.

Keywords: Instrument separation, Endodontic complications, Fractured file removal, Ultrasonic retrieval, Nickel-titanium instruments, Root canal anatomy, Endodontic retreatment, Masserann kit

Endodontic Management of Crown Fracture Using Reattachment Technique with Fibre Post: Case Report

2025-07-20T04:49:43-04:00

Anterior crown fracture from trauma is quite embarrassing for the patient because it impacts the facial esthetics of the person. These traumatic dental injuries are found to be maximum in the maxillary incisors. Treatment of these fractures poses a challenge to the clinician as the main objective of the treatment is to restore esthetics and phonetics of the patient along with pain management. Several treatment methods are available but restoring the patient’s own fractured fragment of tooth if available is the most viable restorative technique as it provides fast and esthetically pleasing results. Hence, this article reports the successful management of crown fracture which was treated with reattachment technique using fibre post.

Keywords: crown fracture, trauma, reattachment, fibre post