Wednesday, June 15, 2011

A Study of Children with Unilateral Posterior Crossbite, Treated and Untreated, in the Deciduous Dentition.

Resident: J. Hencler DMD
Date: 06/15/2011

Article title: A Study of Children with Unilateral Posterior Crossbite, Treated and Untreated, in the Deciduous Dentition
Author(s): Thilander, Lennartsson

Journal: Journal of Orofacial Orthopedics
Major topic: Posterior crossbites: Tx vs. Non-tx and long term outcomes

Main Purpose:
Analyze whether occlusal and skeletal characteristics could be found in the deciduous dentition of children w/ tx success (including self-correction) in contrast to those showing non-correction (including relapse) in the young permanent dentition.

Overview of method of research:
Two grps of children w/ unilateral posterior crossbite were followed from age 5-13yo. The children in one grp were txed in the deciduous dentition while the second grp was txed in the late mixed or early perm dentition. Another 25 children w/ excellent occlusion were included as control grp. Results of clinical examination and biometric and ceph analyses, performed at the first exam, are presented for the three grps.

Key points in the article discussion:
The width of the dental arches seem to be significant in predicting long term outcome in crossbite cases. DUH! Unilateral crossbite is chacterized by asymmetry in the upper dental arch as well as the lower dental arch. The differences b/t the crossbite and non-crossbite sides in both arches appeared relevant to the prediction of long term outcome. A broader upper than lower crossbite side was found in children showing self-correction and correction after expansion tx, while narrower upper than lower crossbite side was found only in non-corrected subjects. If crossbite is left untreated adaptive processes such as TMJ remodeling my lead to craniofacial asymmetry.

Summary of conclusions:
This study has shown that tx of unilateral posterior crossbite is not equivalent to expansion of the upper dental arch but is associated w/ biometric and ceph characteristics of importance for long term result. The aim of early tx in deciduous dentition is to allow the 1st perm molars to erupt in dental arches with ideal transverse dimensions. Selective grinding is performed to eliminate forced guidance of the mand. This will facilitate normal intermaxillary relationship for muscular balance and craniofacial devel. In cases of non-correction after selective grinding, corrective tx is indicated w/ the aim of creating symmetric dental arches and muscle funct. Narrow upper and broad lower dimensions will result in failure if an expansion appliance is used in the upper jaw only.

Assessment of article:
This article was confusing with much biometric and ceph analyses. Seems geared more for an ortho resident. The translation from Swedish to English made for a difficult read. Overall though okay.

Stability of unilateral posterior crossbite correction in the mixed dentition: A randomized clinical trial with a 3-year follow-up

Meghan Sullivan Walsh June 15, 2011
Literature Review – St. Joseph/LMC Pediatric Dentistry



Stability of unilateral Posterior cross bite correction in the mixed dentition: A randomized clinical trial with a 3-year follow-up

Resident: Meghan Sullivan Walsh

Program: Lutheran Medical Center –Providence

Article Title: Stability of unilateral posterior cross bite correction in the mixed dentition: A randomized clinical trial with a 3-year follow-up

Authors: Sofia Petren, Kristen Bjerklin, and Lars Bondemark

Journal: American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

Volume (number), Year, Page #’volume 139, Issue 1, January 2011 Pgs. e73-81

Major topic: To discuss and determine long-term stability of treatment for posterior cross bite.

Overview of Method of Research: 60 Subject: (33 girls and 27 boys), 40 with unilateral posterior cross bite and 20 controls with normal occlusion were used for this study. 20 were treated with a quad helix appliance and 20 with expansion plates. The sample size was also distributed by sex and age. Patients had to meet the following criteria – mixed dentition, unilateral posterior cross bite, no sucking habit or sucking habit discontinued at least one year before trial and no previous ortho treatment. Study casts made at baseline, post treatment and three years post treatments. Measurements were made of the casts including maxillary and mandibular intercanine and intermolar changes at the shortest linear distance at gingival margins and the cusps tips of the teeth. Overbite, overjet, midline deviation and arch length were also measured. Treatment for both sets of crossbite patients was retained for six months post treatment. Later in the study 10 more patients were added to the follow-up study.

Findings: No significant differences between the two groups with respect to age, sex or side of cross bite between the two groups and the control. Cross bite subjects at baseline had significantly smaller values for all maxillary variables. Midline deviation was more prevalent in the quadhelix and expansion plate groups than the normal group. During treatment, maxillary intermolar and intercanine distances increased significantly in both treatment groups. Mandibular intermolar expansion was significantly greater in the expansion plate group than in the quad-helix. After treatment, a correct midline was achieved in more than half the cross bite patients. At three years post treatment all 15 patients in the expansion-plate group and 19 of the 20 patients in the quad-helix group had normal transverse relationships: in other words the treatment was longitudinally stable. However, during the post treatment period, significant decreases in maxillary and mandibular transverse dimensions occurred in both treatment groups. For overbite, overjet, and arch length, there were no differences within or between groups.

Key points: This study confirms the hypothesis that patients with cross bite who are treated and corrected successfully have long term stability. However, at the end of the follow-up period the maxillary transverse width of patients with previous cross bite had significantly smaller transverse width. The width of the maxilla in a former cross bite patient group never reaches the mean maxillary width of the normal group. Midline deviation is frequently seen in posterior cross bite patients however, the long term effects are unpredictable. Overbite and Overjet showed no differences between the treated patients and the controls. There was no increase in the maxillary arch length in the treatment groups. Therefore this study does not support the assumption that cross bite correction by quad-helix or expansion plate treatment will increase the available tooth space.

Assessment of the Article: Great study to support early and successful correction of cross bite stability. Interesting to note that the study did not support an increase in available tooth space.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Incorrect Orofacial functions until 5 years of age and their association with posterior crossbite

Resident: Swan
Title: Incorrect Orofacial Functions Until 5 years of age and their association with posterior crossbite.
Author: Maja Ovsenik
Journal: American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial orthopedics
Major Topic: Habits associated with posterior crossbite
Main Purpose: Investigate the prevalence of posterior crossbite in Slovenian preschoolers at 5 years of age and its relationship to sucking habits, mouth breathing, and atypical swallowing patterns at ages 3,4, and 5.
Methods: 243 Slovenian children were evaluated at ages 3,4, and 5. Sucking habits, irregular orofacial functions, and morphologic malocclusion were all noted. Before the clinical exam, the parents completed a questionnaire regarding the child's sucking habits. Then, the child was evaluated for mouth breathing (compentent lip closure or not) and swallowing pattern (tongue thrust/teeth apart swallowing). "Normal" swallowing pattern was characterized by tooth contact and activity of masseter muscle. Intraorally, posterior crossbite, midline deviation, and transverse relationships were noted.
Results: Posterior crossbite age 5 diagnosed in 15.2 % of children. Majority were unilateral.
The difference of irregular orofacial functions between crossbite and non crossbite groups was significantly significant for mouth breathing and pacifier sucking. At age 3, 50% of the children with crossbite had a pacifier habit, while only 20% of the noncrossbite kids did. Pacifier sucking decreased markedly by age 5 among the kids, while mouth breathing stayed relatively constant. Diagnosed in 40% of kids with CB, 25% without. Atypical swallowing was also significantly related to crossbite, as this habit increased by year in the crossbite group and decreased substantially by year in the non CB group.
Conclusions:
1.
To intercept CBs and funct. shifts, the deciduous dentition should be observed closely especially in children with habits from 2-3 years old. Sucking habits have a direct effect on the developing occlusion and an indirect effect by changing the swallowing pattern.
2. each clinical examination in children with sucking habits should include assessment of orofacial functions (esp. swallowing pattern) In this study, atypical swallowing was diagnosed principally by palpating the masseter and temporalis muscles. Atypical swallowing was diagnosed with no masseter activity on swallowing.

Feeding and nonnutritive sucking habits and prevalence of open bit and cross-bite in children/adolescents with Down Syndrome.

Resident: Roberts

Date: 6/15/11

Article: Feeding and nonnutritive sucking habits and prevalence of open bit and cross-bite in children/adolescents with Down Syndrome.

Journal: Angle Orthodontist

Volume: 80 No. 4

Year: 2010

pages: 748-753



Objective: To analyze the influence of breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and nonnutritive sucking habits on the prevalence of open bit and anterior/posterior cross-bite in children with Down Syndrome.


Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out in 112 pairs of mothers/children with Down Syndrome between 3 and 18 years of age in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The children with DS were clinically examined for the presence of open bite as well as anterior and posterior cross-bite. Information on breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and nonnutritive sucking habits was collected using a structured questionnaire. The control variables were age and mouth posture of children/adolescents and mother’s schooling. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using the chi-square test and multiple logistic regression.


Results: The prevalence of anterior open bite was 21% anterior cross-bite was 33% and posterior cross-bite was 31%. The use of bottle feeding for more than 24 months and pacifier sucking form more than 24 months were associated with the prevalence of anterior cross-bite. Finger sucking and the use of bottle feeding for ore than 24 months were associated with posterior cross-bite.


Conclusion: The prevalence of open-bite and cross-bite in children with DS was associated with the use of bottle feeding and pacifier sucking for more than 24 months, breastfeeding for less than 6 months and finger sucking.


Risks and Benefits of Pacifiers

Resident: Cho
Author(s): Sexton S. and Natale, R.
Journal: American Academy of Family Physicians
Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2009. 79:681-685.
Major topic: Pacifiers
Type of Article: Handout

Main Purpose: To explain the risk and benefits of using pacifiers in infants


Benefits of pacifiers: Analgesia – pacifiers can be used for pain relief in newborns and infants younger than six months undergoing minor procedures in the emergency department. A small amount of sucrose solution (2mL) can be given within two minutes of the procedure, alone or in combination with a nipple or pacifier. Shorter hospital stays. Improved bottle feeding. Reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Risks of pacifiers: Breastfeeding - conflicting evidence about whether early use of a pacifier disrupts breastfeeding or merely indicates other breastfeeding difficulties. Dental malocclusions – most significant malocclusions occurred in children who continued sucking habits beyond 48 months, however, notable changes in children who continued beyond 24 months. Infection – although some evidence exists for pacifier colonization with microorganism, the direct association between these organisms and infection has not been proven. Otitis Media – the pacifier could cause otitis media in the second six months of life by reflux of nasopharyngeal secretions into the middle ear form sucking, and Eustachian tube dysfunction from altered dental structure.

Recommendations: Postpone pacifier use until breastfeeding habits are well established. Pacifier use may be beneficial for the infant between the age of 1 month to 6 months of age preventing SIDS and providing analgesic effects. AAFP/AAP joint guidelines on otitis media, based on evidence from cohort studies, recommend that physicians advocated for little to no use of pacifiers in the second six months of life to prevent otitis media. ADA and AAPD recommend that pacifier use by discouraged after four years of age.

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Changes in the prevalence of nonnutritive sucking patterns in the first 8 years of life

Resident’s Name: Jessica Wilson

Article title: Changes in the prevalence of nonnutritive sucking patterns in the first 8 years of life

Author(s): Bishara, S et al.

Journal: American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2006. 30:1. 31-36.

Major topic: Nonnutritive sucking patterns

Overview of method of research: Scientific Article

Background:
It is estimated that the prevalence of pacifier use is up to 70% and recently, the trend is for children to prolong their pacifier habits. Studies have also shown a significantly higher proportion of girls having digit habits.

Purpose:
To determine prospectively the duration of nonnutritive sucking behaviors of children between the ages of 1 and 8 and the effect of persistent habits on selected occlusal characteristics in the late deciduous dentition.

Methods:
The investigation was part of the Iowa Fluoride Study, a prospective cohort study. Questionnaires were mailed to participant’s mothers at 3, 6, 9, 12, 16, 20, and 24 months and yearly thereafter. Questionnaires included questions on nonnutritive sucking behaviors. The children were examined at 4 1/2-5 years old and alginate impressions along with a bite registration were taken on the majority of the patients. 372 of the participant’s models met the full primary dentition requirement and were analyzed for canine relationship, posterior crossbite, overjet, overbite and open bite. A total of 797 children were included in the sucking behavior analysis. The McNemar test was used to compare various findings.

Results:
At the end of the first year, there were significantly more children using a pacifier than having a digit habit. Throughout the next 4 years, the incidence of children still using pacifiers was significantly less than those with finger habits. The incidence of pacifier habits decreased between the ages of 3 and 8 years from 10% to 0.3% whereas, the incidence of digit sucking only decreased from 14% to 4%.
When looking at digit habits, there was a statistically significant decrease in incidence from the ages of 1 to 4 years, from 4 to 7 years the decrease reached a plateau, followed by another significant decrease from 7 to 8 years of age.
Children with prolonged (>4 years) pacifier habits had a significantly greater incidence of posterior crossbite than those with a digit habit, while prolonged digit habit had a significantly greater incidence of excessive overjets. Class II canine relationships and anterior openbites were not significantly different between these groups.

Key points/Summary:
1. There were no significant differences in prevalence of digit or pacifier habits between boys and girls between the ages of 1 and 8.
2. Children with habits lasting less than 12 months did not have significantly different occlusal characteristics than those who were breast-fed for 6-12 months.
3. Habits lasting >48 months have detrimental effects on occlusion in the late deciduous dentition.
4. When comparing changes in pacifier and digit habits, more children with digit habits had difficulty in stopping after 4 years of age. “As a result, it might be useful to attempt to substitute the digit habit with a pacifier habit as soon as possible.”

Assessment of Article:
I am not sure how I feel about that last statement made by the authors about substituting a digit habit with a pacifier habit, but overall the article presented some pretty interesting findings. Me sorta likey.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Pacifiers and Breastfeeding

Resident’s Name: Jessica Wilson

Article title: Pacifiers and Breastfeeding

Author(s): O’Connor et al.

Journal: Archives Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine

Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2009. 163:4. 378-382.

Major topic: Pacifier use

Overview of method of research: Systematic Review

Background:
Pacifier use has traditionally been thought to interfere with optimal breastfeeding and in the 1980s the World Health Organization and UNICEF advised the avoidance of pacifiers in order to achieve success in breastfeeding. Since then, evidence has shown pacifiers may be associated with a decrease in incidence of SIDS by as much as 61%, especially when used during the initiation of sleep. The AAP recommend offering a pacifier at naptime and bedtime to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Purpose:
To summarize the current evidence regarding the impact of pacifier use on breastfeeding.

Methods:
A search was done for articles published between 1950 and 2006 related to pacifiers and breastfeeding and was limited to human studies using healthy infants with adequate follow-up(70%). 29 articles met all of the inclusion criteria. Data was then extracted and analyzed.

Results:
Four randomized control trials (RCTs), 20 cohort studies and 5 cross-sectional studies from 12 different countries were evaluated. None of the studies found a significant difference in breastfeeding outcomes with pacifier-related intervention. One study showed that within the group of infants instructed not to use the pacifier, over 60% still used the pacifier.

Key points/Summary:
The results of the 4 RCTs, the highest level of evidence, did not show a difference in breastfeeding outcomes and pacifier intervention.
The majority of the observational studies however, showed evidence of pacifier use and a shorter duration of breastfeeding.
This systematic review demonstrates the complex relationship between pacifier use and breastfeeding and the need for further research.

Assessment of Article:
Although the authors had great intentions and reviewed many different articles, the findings did not lead to many conclusions. This is still a very debatable topic and the matter remains unsettled.

Open Bite in Prematurely Born Children

Resident: Swan
Title: Open Bite in Prematurely Born Children
Authors: Harila et al.
Journal: Journal of Dentistry for Children 74:3, 2007

Purpose: "examine the expression of open bite in prematurely born children and discuss the etiological factors that may lead to bite it."

Intro: Preterm birth has been associated with various dentofacial findings, including enamel hypoplasia, dental caries, palatal deformities, early eruption of permanent incisors and first molars, and occlusal asymmetries. This study set out to determine any correlation between PTB and anterior open bite.

Methods: N=2132: 328 Preterm and 1804 fullterm born children. 60 Caucasian children and 268 African American children in preterm group, 803 Caucasian and 1001 AA children in control group. All children were among 60,000 in Collaborative Perinatal Study of National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Dental examinations were carried out in a standardized way with casts made and photographs taken between ages 6 and 12 in 95% of cases. Casts were examined, arch dimensions and occlusal variables (incl. molar and canine relationships) were determined. Mean age at which casts were taken was 8.8 years. Vertical open bite was determined only for "fully erupted teeth." Results were analyzed with chi-square analysis.

Results: AA children had higher incidence of anterior open bite than Caucasian children (9 vs 3%). Girls had greater incidence than boys (8 vs 6%).
Greater prevalence of ant. open bite was found in the premature children (9 vs 7%). In preterm AA boys, prevalence was 11% compared to 8% among controls. When Caucasian and AA children were combined, prevalence of ant open bite was greater for preterm boys (8 vs 5%) and for preterm girls (9 vs 8%).

Discussion: According to literature, prevalence of open bite in gen. pop. aged 8-11 is 4%. In US, incidence of open bit is approx. 16% in AA population and 4% in Caucasian population. The results of this study conform to these findings.
Literature also shows that most common reason for ant. open bite is non-nutritive sucking habits, but also included in the list are mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, myopathies of facial muscles. It is recommended that children be guided to stop a non-nutritive sucking habit by about age 2.

"Preterm children are predisposed to several systemic derangements, respiratory problems, and other infections. Additionally, the head posture may be altered due to difficulties with breathing, which can interfere with the developing teeth and may help explain the increased prevalence of open bite in some preterm children."

Conclusions: Greater prevalence of ant. open bite among AA children compared to Caucasian and in preterm children compared to full term children.

Assessment: Weak article in my opinion. Briefly hypothesized why preterm babies might have more open bite tendency, but even then it was only a sentence and a weak one at that. Also, only "fully erupted teeth" on the casts were evaluated for open bite. It seems hard to know when a tooth is fully erupted on a cast, and I wonder if this resulted in some false positives and false negatives as they evaluated them.

Effects of oral habits' duration on dental characteristics in the primary dentition

Resident: Adam J. Bottrill
Date: 08JUN11
Region: Providence
Article title: Effects of oral habits' duration on dental characteristics in the primary dentition
Journal: JADA
Page #s: 1685-1693
Vol:No Date: 132, Dec 2001
Major topic: Oral Habits, Primary Dentition
Minor topic(s): None
Type of Article: Longitudinal Study

Main Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of different durations of nonnutritive sucking habits on the occlusal relationships and the dental arch characteristics in the primary dentition.

Key points in the article discussion:

I. General:
A. Studies have demonstrated that long-term nonnutritive sucking habits can lead to occlusal abnormalities. Not much known about habits of shorter duration.

II. Methods:
A. Longitudinal data collected on nonnutritive sucking among children through a series of questionnaires. (547 children)
B. Ages 4-5, study models obtained. (526 children)
C. Excluded those with permanent dentition and insufficient descriptive data. (372 children)
D. Dental arch parameters measured
E. Occlusal conditions analyzed for the groups of children with nonnutritive sucking habits of different durations.

III. Results:
A. Only 8 of the 372 children reported no sucking habit.
B. Children with nonnutritive sucking habits that continued to 48 months of age or beyond demonstrated many significant differences from children with habits of shorter duration:
1. narrower maxillary arch widths, greater overjet and greater overjet and greater prevalence of open bite and posterior crossbite.
C. Even when the habit was ceased between 2-3yo, pts still had increased risk of developing posterior crossbite and increased mandibular arch width when compared to those ceasing at 12mo.
D. Those who ceased at 36mo vs 12mo of age had significantly greater mandibular canine arch widths, maxillary canine arch depths and overjet and open bite.
E. Prevalence of anterior open bite, posterior crossbite and excessive overjet increased with duration of habits.

IV. Conclusions:
A. Children with shorter sucking habits also have detectable differences in dimensions
B. As pediatric dentists, we may consider revisiting our suggestions that sucking habits may last until permanent dentition eruption with little concern.
C. Will attempt to follow the children into mixed dentition and draw further conlclusions.
D. Recommending children stop habits prior to 24 months of age is unrealistic.
E. The results of this study suggest 24 months is a realistic and beneficial age to begin the tapering and ceasing of nonnutritive sucking habits.

Assessment of Article: These sucking habits were followed on an ongoing basis and at regular intervals, rather than relying on retrospective gathering of the data. As an observational cohort study, it was not limited to those children "seeking treatment" which lends to it's validity. HOWEVER... This article describes something I believe we all consider intuitive. Longer habit = worsened occlusion

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Influence of Nonnutritive Sucking Habits, Breathing Pattern and Adenoid Size on the Development of Malocclusion

Resident: Roberts

Date: 6/8/11

Title: Influence of Nonnutritive Sucking Habits, Breathing Pattern and Adenoid Size on the Development of Malocclusion

Author: Gois E, Junior H, et al.

Journal: Angle Orthodontics

Volume: 78

Number: 4

pages: 647 - 654


Objective: To investigate the association of finger and pacifier - sucking habits, breathing pattern, and adenoid size with the development of malocclusion in primary dentition.

Materials and Methods: A case control study was carried out involving 300 preschool children ages 3 to 6 years, randomly selected from 10 public and 10 private schools from a large sample of 745. The case group(n=150) was made up of individuals with at least one of the following malocclusions: anterior open bite, posterior open bite, or over-jet of more than 3 mm. The control group(n=150) was made up of individuals without malocclusions. Variables were assessed through questionnaires such as: oral habits, mouth breathing analysis, and analysis of a lateral ceph to evaluate airway obstruction related to the adenoids.

Results: The risk factors for the occurrence of malocclusion in preschool children were duration of pacifier - sucking after age 2 and mouth breathing pattern. No significant associations were found between hypertrophied adenoids or finger-sucking habits and the occurrence of malocclusion due to the small number of children in this study with these conditions.

Conclusion: The presence of nonnutritive sucking habits and pacifier - sucking habits were directly associated with the presence of a malocclusion. The malocclusion in the primary dentition in preschool children was directly related to the duration of pacifier - sucking after 2 years of age and the mouth breathing pattern.

Pacifier Use in Children: A Review of Recent Literature

Meghan Sullivan Walsh June 8, 2011

Literature Review - St. Joseph/LMC Pediatric Dentistry




Pacifier Use in Children: A Review of Recent Literature


Resident: Meghan Sullivan Walsh


Program: Lutheran Medical Center- Providence


Article Title: Pacifier Use in Children: A Review of Recent Literature


Authors: Steven M. Adair, DDS, MS


Journal: Pediatric Dentistry


Volume (number), Year, Page #’s; 25:5, 2003, 449-458.


Major Topic: Review of literature concerning the role of pacifier in nonnutritive sucking in four areas 1) SIDS, 2) breast-feeding 3) otitis media and other infections and 4) safety.


Overview of Method of Research: Review of studies published since 1950. Searches limited to clinical trials, meta-analysis and multicenter studies. Diagnosis limited to sensitivity and specificity. Etiology/harm limited to cohort studies, case control studies and risk. Natural history/prognosis included prognosis, cohort studies, disease progression and time factors.


Findings:

1) Relationship between pacifier use and SIDS

Studies have shown that pacifier use at sleep time was associated with a greater than 50% reduction in the risk of SIDS. There were several explanations offered: 1) Airway may be less compromised or restricted with pacifier use. 2) Pacifier use may prevent the infant from turning to a prone position. 3) Infants are aroused while sleeping when they lose their pacifier 4) other misc such as reduced risk of GERD, simulation of saliva, simulation of somatostatin and gastrin and altered mother’s behavior causing the mom to check on the infant more frequently.


2) Effect of pacifier use on breast-feeding

Recent decades have shown a trend towards reduced breast-feeding and many studies blame pacifier use. Studies have refuted the “nipple confusion” theory, however, mother’s have admitted to using pacifiers to control the interval between breast-feeding, or to wean their infants from the breast. It is reasonable to consider that mothers who do not plan on breast-feeding may use a pacifier to comfort the infant and assist in weaning.


3) Pacifier use and it’s relationship with acute otitis media and other aspects of health.

Data shows a strong relationship between pacifier use and acute otitis media (AOM). Higher percentages of children with a history of AOM has used a pacifier for less than 4 years. In addition pacifiers have been proved to become a vector for bacterial and fungal transport.


4) Physical safety.

Pacifier material and design, combined with improper usage has been reported towards morbidity and mortality. Ventilation holes are essential as well as flanges with a minimum horizontal and vertical dimension of 43mm. Parents and caregivers are warned not to use cords on pacifiers for fear of strangulation.

Chemical safety includes a volatile n-nitrosamines found in baby bottle nipples that have shown to produce carcinogens in animal testing. In addition, there are questionable reports on latex allergies associated with pacifier use.


Key Points: Summary: Recommendations for our patient’s parents should include:

1) Education on the safety of pacifier use

2) Withhold pacifiers until breast-feeding is established. Limit pacifier use for soothing only.

3)Advise parents to exercise judgment and restraint with pacifier use.

4) Instruct parents to clean pacifiers routinely and avoid sharing.

5)Curtailing pacifier use before the age of 2 to prevent habits and malocclusion.


Assessment of the Article: Great article. Very thorough and usefu

06/08/2011 Predictors of Bruxism, Other Oral Parafunctions, and Tooth Wear over a 20-Year Follow-up Period

Resident: J. Hencler
Date: 06/08/2011

Article title: Predictors of Bruxism, Other Oral Parafunctions, and Tooth Wear over a 20-Year Follow-up Period

Author: Carlsson et al
Journal: Journal of Orofacial Pain Volume 17, Number 1, 2003

Major topic: Oral parafunctions

Type of Article: Longitudinal study

Main Purpose:
Analyze predictors of bruxism, other oral parafunctions, and anterior tooth wear by the use of logistical regression models w/ variables recorded at the first exam as independent variable.

Overview of method of research:
Originally 402 randomly selected 7-, 11-, and 15-year old patients were examined clinically and by questionnaire. Twenty years later 320 completed and returned the questionnaire. 100 returned patients underwent a clinical exam focusing on occlusal factors and function/dysfunction of the masticatory system. For analyses of predictors of oral parafunctions and tooth wear registered at the 20 yr f/u, logistic regression was used w/ recordings at the first exam as independent variables.

Findings:
The bivariate analyses between the dependent variable (reported bruxism at 20 year f/u) and selected variables from the first exam 20 years earlier resulted in five significant associations. These 5 variables (reported bruxism and other oral parafunctions, headache, pain after heavy chewing, TMD symptoms including pain after chewing) plus 1 dental variable (anterior open bite) were included in the logistical regression model with reported bruxism at the 20 year f/u as the dependent variable. See tables for details.

Key points in the article discussion:
The hypothesis was that bruxism and other oral parafunctions in childhood would be identified as predictors of bruxiam and other oral parafunctions and tooth waer 20 years later. Many clinicians have suggested a positive between relationship bruxism and TMD but the knowledge of what causes TMD is limited. The etiology of bruxism has also been controversial and theories have considered occlusal, psychological, genetic, and stress factors. Currently, there is a concensus about the multifactorial nature of its etiology, and bruxism is thought to be a CNS phenomenon related to stress and pain behavior more than to structural components.

Summary of conclusions:
This study found:
1) Reports in childhood bruxism, tooth clenching, tooth grinding at night and nail biting and/or other parafunctions were predictors of the same oral parafunctions 20 yrs later. This suggests that oral parafunctions may be a persistent trait in many subjects
2) Predictors of the 2 components of bruxism, tooth clenching during daytime and tooth grinding at night, were not the same, which supports the opinion that these 2 occlusal parafunctions may be different
3) Postnormal occlusion (Class II) and tooth wear in childhood predicted increased tooth wear in adulthood
4) Nonworking-side interference reduced the risk for extensive tooth wear of the anterior teeth in 100 35-year old subjects.

Assessment of article:
Interesting conclusion. I find that many parents report that their children grind their teeth and want to know if there are any specific causes and possible treatment to make them stop. I find the answer to this question one of the more difficult to explain to parents because we don’t really know the answer for sure. Usually occlusal guard or TMJ therapy is not indicated in very young patients so the best we can do is encourage the parents and continue to monitor the bruxism.

6/8/11 Sucking, Chewing, and Feeding Habits and the Development of Crossbite: A Longitudinal Study of Girls from birth to 3 years of Age

Department of Pediatric Dentistry
Resident’s Name:Murphy Program: Lutheran Medical Center - Providence
Article title: Sucking, Chewing, and Feeding Habits and the Development of Crossbite: A Longitudinal Study of Girls from birth to 3 years of Age
Author(s): Erik Larsson, Odont Dr
Journal: Angle Orthodontist
Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2001. vol 71, No 2
Major topic: Development of post. X bite
Minor topic(s): various things that may cause xbite
Main Purpose: Follow the development of xbites in pacifier suckers and to determine the possibility of reducing the prevalence of xbite by informing/instructing the parents about sucking habits and reducing the amount of time the child has the pacifier in the mouth

Overview of method of research:
60 Swedish girls, all born from 1995-1997 were followed from birth until age three. Over this time period, 5 interviews/exams were conducted. The child’s eating habits, their habit, if they had one, was discussed, and an assessment of their dentition was completed. Variables assessed at the interviews include the following
1. Breast feeding, duration, and frequency
2. Chewing resistance of food
3. Sucking habits, duration, intensity, changes in intensity
4. Biting/chewing habits
5. xbites, functional interferences
6. Problems with teething
7. Design and material of teat

Findings:
Numerous studies have shown that there is an increased prevalence of post. Xbite in children with artificial sucking habits. These studies indicate that a xbite is more likely to develop in pacifier users as opposed to digit suckers. It has been suggested that when the ‘teat’ of a pacifier is kept in the mouth, the tongue is forced to a lower position, thereby reducing palatal support for the max. canines and molars against the cheeks. Conversely, the tongue will increase lateral pressure on the mand. canines and molars, These changes act synergistically to create a transverse instability, possibly leading to post. Xbite. Profit concluded that pressure must be applied to the teeth for 6h/d to produce tooth movement. Therefore, we must encourage the parents to decrease the amount of time the child uses their paci, or sucks their digits.

90% of the children were breastfed. 72% of the girls developed a paci habit, 10% a digit habit, and 18% had no habit. Interferring contacts were noted in 12 of the girls with the paci habit. In all 12 of the girls, the interfering teeth were the primary canines.

In conjunction with previous studies, it was found that the longer a child is breastfed, the less likely they are to develop a sucking habit.

5% of the girls who were still paci users at age three had developed a xbite. In one girl who had a habit until age 2.5 and had developed a xbite, her xbite self corrected by the 3 year check up. As we have heard many times before, we must try to stop the habit before age 3.

Key points/Summary:
Long term artificial sucking habits can cause posterior xbite. Habits should be stopped at all costs by age 3. We should encourage parents to decrease the amount of time the child has their paci, for example only when they are falling asleep.

Assessment of Article: Good, informative article. Things to remember for boards are 1, Stop habits ASAP, definitely by age 3. 2. Try to educate the caregivers on why it is important to stop the habit, and give them tools and ideas to help them stop it.

Monday, June 6, 2011

The relationship of bottle feeding and other sucking behaviors with speech disorder in Patagonian preschoolers

Resident: Cho
Author(s): Barbosa C et al.
Journal: BMC Pediatrics
Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2009. 9:1-8.
Major topic: Speech disorders, nonnutritive sucking habits
Type of Article: Research Article

Main Purpose: Evaluate risk factors among pre-school Chilean Patagonia children focusing on past and present sucking behaviors for developing speech disorders.

Methods: Observational study on 128 children aged 37 to 70 months old attending three local public kindergartens in Punta Arenas (Patagonia), Chile, during a one year period. Information was gathered using parent questionnaires (feeding hx., demographics, social economic status), child speech evaluations (TEPROSIF test used by Chilean speech therapist – child shown drawing and examiner tells him/her standardized phrase that includes name of the drawing and child is asked to imitate the phrase) and physical examinations of the children’s mouths conducted by the pediatrician.

Results: 58 three year olds, 49 four year olds, and 21 five year olds were evaluated in this study. Children with below normal occurrence of speech phonological processes were breastfed for a shorter period of time. More than twice as many children with below normal speech used a pacifier for more than three years compared to those without speech problems.


Key points:
Sucking habits such as pacifier use, finger sucking and bottle feeding are associated with speech disorders in preschool children. Starting bottle feeding after 9 months was found to be protective of developing speech disorders. Children who suck their fingers were 3X more likely to obtain an abnormal classification on the TEPROSIF evaluation. Pacifier use was shown to negatively impact the development of speech alterations if used for more than 3 years old while less use was found not be harmful.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Dental Caries of Refugee Children Compared with US Children

Meghan Sullivan Walsh June 1, 2011

Literature Review - St. Joseph/LMC Pediatric Dentistry





Dental Caries of Refugee Children Compared with US Children


Resident: Meghan Sullivan Walsh


Program: Luterhan Medical Center - Providence


Article Title: Dental Caries of Refugee Children Compared with US Children


Authors: Susan Cote, RDH, MS; Paul Geltman, MD, MPH; Martha Nunn, DDS, PhD; Kathy Lituri, RdH, MPH; Michelle Henshaw, DDS, MPH; and Raul I. Garcia, DMD


Journal: Pediatrics


Volume, Number, Year, Pages; Vol. 114, No.6, December 2004, pgs 733-740


Major Topic: To describe the prevalence of caries experience and untreated decay among newly arrived refugee children classified by their region of origin and compared with US children.


Overview of Method of Research: Within 90 days of arrival to Massachusetts, US, screenings were completed of some 224 refugees starting January 2001 and ending in September 2002. A dental hygienist performed the screening and the parent and/or child was interviewed about their dental history and history of pain. Demographic information was recorded (age, gender, race/ethnicity, and country of origin.) Caries experience was recorded as well as ‘ECC’. Treatment urgency was estimated with their own scale. In comparison to these numbers, the NHANES III database was used including a total of 11,296 US children between the ages of 2 to 16.9. Information gathered was used to construct comparisons to the refugee database. Logistical regression models were constructed to test the differences in prevalence of untreated cares and the prevalence of caries experience between US and refugee children.


Findings:

REFUGEE ANALYSIS

*Refugee children from Africa were the least likely ever to have been to a dentist

*For treatment urgency:

1) 5% of children from Africa were classified as needing urgent care as compared to 32.2% of Eastern Europeans and 13.6% from other areas.

2)Highest proportion of children with NO obvious dental problems were from Africa 40.5%

*Caries experience in total refugee population was 51.3% ; 38% - African, 79.9% -Eastern European and 50% - Other

*Refugee children from Africa had the fewest dental needs while Eastern Europeans had the greatest.

US NHANES analysis

*77.7% of US children exhibited “no obvious problem”

*77.2% of US children has no untreated caries

Comparison

*White/other refugee children were 9.4 times as likely to have untreated caries compared to white US children, 5.4 times as likely compared to African American children and 4.4 times as likely compared with other US children.

*African refugee children were only twice as likely to have untreated caries compared with white US children and not significantly different from African American children or other US children.

*White/other refugee children were 4.6 times as likely to exhibit caries compared with African refugee children.

*African refugee children were only half as likely to have caries experience compared with white US children and African American children.


Key Points/Summary:

African refugee children had significantly lower dental caries experience as well as fewer untreated caries as compared to Eastern European refugee children. African refugees were also less likely to have seen a dentist. In addition, African refugee children were also half as likely to have had a caries experience were compared with African American children. Eastern European refugees in contrast were three times as likely to have caries experience than US children and 9.4 times as likely to have untreated caries as white US children. Many factors can be attributed to these numbers. It’s been found that many Eastern African countries have naturally occurring optimal levels of fluoride in drinking water with others having very high levels of fluoride. In addition the African countries which were studied also consume far less annual per capita sugar as compared to Eastern Europeans and the US. One interesting fact in the article was that many African’s use ‘chewing sticks’ to clean their teeth which have been found to be an effective means of plaque removal.


Assessment of the Article:

I’m unsure as to why I was ‘randomly’ selected to report on this article?... In any case, this article and research was fascinating! When comparing the few families we’ve treated at St. Joseph, the numbers don’t match up, however, our families in Providence have been from Western African communities which may account for the differences. Many questions came into my head... Are Western Countries in Africa fluoridated? What kind of diets are these families consuming while in these refugee camps? Are these children now at higher risk for dental disease now that they’ve moved to the US? It would be interesting to use the data were are collecting at St. Joseph to form our own research project! The article does mention several times how important it is for us to become aquatinted with Refugee families and the children as the US does receive a huge number of these families each month. Fortunately for us we are already getting a good sense of their dental history, caries experience and the many barriers they and we face when attempting to treat their dental needs.

Oral Lesions in HIV Infection in Developing Countries: An Overview

Resident: Adam J. Bottrill
Date: 01JUN11
Region: Providence
Article title: Oral Lesions in HIV Infection in Developing Countries: An Overview
Journal: Adv Dent Res
Page #s: 63-68
Vol:No Date: 19, Apr, 2006
Major topic: HIV Infection. Oral Lesions
Minor topic(s): None
Type of Article: Descriptive article

Main Purpose: The objective of this work was to ascertain the nature and prevalence of oral lesions in different regions, and to identify any gaps in our understanding of these lesions in HIV disease.

Key points in the article discussion:

I. General:
A. Studies are needed WRT these oral lesions in developing countries and developed countries if a proper course of treatment is to be effectively formulated.
B. End of 2003: 46mill ppl infected... with more than 95% from developing countries.
C. Oral lesions are often an early finding in HIV infection.
D. 2.9 million children with HIV.

II. Methods:
A. Oral lesion reports from developing countries over a 14 year period.
B. Reports sub-grouped into 4 groups, based on region: India, Thailand, Africa, Latin America.

III. Results:
A. Detailed report and data tabulation presented in article...
B. Route of transmition primarily sexual for adults... with the exception of the Thai cohort which showed predominately IV drug use.
C. Men primarily infected with women as the majority in Zaire, Kenya, Zambia and Thailand.
D. Pediatric patients with oral lesions ranged from 25% to 63%.
E. Oral Candidiasis most common with the most common type of pseudomembranous.
F. Angular Cheilitis and Oral Hairy Leukoplakia reported from ALL regions.
G. Other common lesions: Gingivitis, Periodontitis, Linear gingival erythema, necrotizing ulcerative periodontitis, ulcers, oral hyperpigmentation.
H. Oral Kaposi's Sarcoma most prevalent in Mexico and Zimbabwe.
I. Oral submucous fibrosis in India due to areca nut chewing.
J. Often, the predominance of certain oral lesions was a direct effect of the populations access to care or stage of disease.

Assessment of Article: This article serves as a baseline for further studies regarding geographic prevalence and the nature of the disease process.

Oral Health and Preterm Delivery Education

Resident: Swan
Article Title: Oral Health and Preterm Delivery Education: A New Role for the Pediatric Dentist
Author: Katz et al.
Journal: Pediatric Dentistry
Volume (Number): 28:6 2006
Major Topic: Preterm Delivery and Poor oral health status
Type of Article: Literature Review
Main Purpose: Review the current literature that correlates poor oral health status and risk of preterm delivery; identify pediatric dentist’s role in educating expecting mothers
Findings: Periodontal disease and its associated bacteria are thought to be involved with various systemic conditions. Recent literature has suggested that these bacteria or their byproducts may cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus by stimulating an inflammatory response in the mother, which may ultimately result in PTD (before 37 weeks). Several human studies have highlighted this potential correlation:
1. significant inverse relationship between mother’s P.Gingivalis-specific IgG levels and birth weight
2. women with severe periodontal disease 7-8 times more likely to have PLBW infants
3. PTD significantly associated with attachment loss; periodontal disease independently associated with PTD and LBW
4. one systematic review: of 25 relevant studies, 18 suggested association between perio disease and adverse pregnancy outcome.
5. trends in literature support association between perio disease and adverse outcomes, primarily in economically disadvantaged populations.

One possible mechanism: PGE2, TNF alpha levels rise within amniotic fluid until threshold is reached, which induces labor/delivery. These molecules are produced in perio disease, possibly inducing labor if they cross the placenta. (PGE2 in crevicular fluid can be measured to give current perio disease activity).
Interventional Studies:
1. SRP may reduce Spontaneous Preterm Birth (study with 300 pregnant women)
2. Perio therapy significantly decreased levels of PGE2.
Animal Models:
1.rabbit model showed that P gingivalis cells implanted into subcutaneous chambers resulted in systemic dissemination, transplacental passage and fetal exposure. All rabbits exposed showed placental exposure to the bacteria.
2. Injected LPS from 3 perio bacteria compared to E. Coli LPS in sheep. Perio LPS had high rates of fetal lethality compared to E Coli LPS.
Key Points/Summary: PTD is a major public health concern. >20 % among poor/minorities and hasn’t changed for 30 years. Studies in humans argue for a correlation between perio disease and preterm delivery/LBW infants. Could be argued that those at increased risk for perio disease are more prone to experience pregnancy complications—intervention and animal model studies support the link though—especially with P. Gingivalis. It’s our job to emphasize the importance of oral health care during pregnancy to the mothers we see in the clinic.
Assessment of Article: Good review that helped clarify and somewhat murky subject.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Survey of Oral Helath Knowledge and Behavior of Pregnant Minority Adolescents

Resident’s Name: Jessica Wilson

Article title: Survey of Oral Helath Knowledge and Behavior of Pregnant Minority Adolescents

Author(s): Fadavi et al.

Journal: Pediatric Dentistry

Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2009. 31:5. 405-408.

Major topic: Pregnant Adolescents

Overview of method of research: Survey

Background:
Studies have shown that periodontal disease is a clinically significant risk factor for preterm low birth weight babies. Many women may be unaware of this correlation. In one study the most common periodontal finding in pregnant women was gingivitis due to plaque accumulation and periodontal status was significantly associated with smoking, insurance status and race with African-Americans and Hispanic-Americans experiencing higher rates than Caucasians.

Purpose:
To compare dental visits and oral health knowledge of African-American (AA) and Hispanic-American (HA) adolescents in a community health clinic.

Methods:
Subjects were between the ages of 12 and 20 who were pregnant within one year of the study and were patients of a community health center were given a questionnaire. The questionnaire contained 21 questions about demographics, dental behaviors and dental knowledge. 50 AAs and 61 HAs were used for analysis.

Results:
There were no significant differences in age, number of pregnancies, education level or employment status. There was a significant difference of 85% AAs and 60% HAs who used public assistance to pay for dental care. 31% of HAs and only 8% of AAs were self-pay. AAs were more likely to live with their parents or family while the HAs were more likely to live with their boyfriends/husbands. HAs were found to floss more than AAs, while AAs reported flossing more than HAs. Both groups were not likely to receive regular dental care while pregnant. Both groups had similar oral health knowledge, however HAs were more likely to know about the association between pregnancy and gingivitis.

Key points/Summary:
The younger the pregnant adolescent, the more likely they were to utilize dental care during pregnancy.
The subjects who had had previous dental visits were 13.6 times more likely to visit the dentist while pregnant.
The odds of a pregnant adolescent living with a husband/boyfriend visiting the dentist while pregnant were 4.4 times higher than those who did not.

Assessment of Article:
This was a simple questionnaire study with a low sample size, but some interesting enough findings.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

The Childhood Obesity Epidemic: A Role for Pediatric Dentists?

Resident: Cho
Author(s): Vann et al.
Journal: Pediatric Dentistry
Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2005. 27:271-276.
Major topic: Childhood Obesity
Type of Article: Literature Review

Main Purpose: Review the causes of childhood obesity, discuss relevance of obesity to dental health and disease, and highlight some of the actions pediatric dentists should take.

Key points:
Obesity is defined as an excess amount of body fat in proportion to lean body mass. BMI is calculated by the person’s weight in kg divided by the square of his or height in meters. BMI higher than 30 is considered obese.
8 common sense reasons for childhood obesity was discussed in Sports Illustrated: neighborhoods without sidewalks and parks, fear of childhood abduction, hard-working parents, less children in organized sports, emphasis on test scores, fast food, technology, and family traits.
Finnish study followed 516 children from birth to age 12 and used weight to predict caries experience. They found that obesity alone was not a good predictor of dental decay. Swedish study examined relationship between dental caries and risk factors for atherosclerosis in nearly 200 15-year olds in one small urban community. This study reported that children with DMFT score greater than 9 had a significantly higher BMI than caries-free children.

Recommendations:
AAP has 8 recommendations for Pediatric Dentists:
1. Encourage parents, teachers, coaches, and others who influence the child to discuss health habits.
2. Enlist policymakers to support a healthy lifestyle for children.
3. Encourage organizations responsible for health care to provide coverage for effective obesity prevention and treatment strategies.
4. Encourage public and private sources to fund research on obesity in children.
5. Support and advocate social marketing intended to promote healthy food choices.

5/24/11 Tobacco Use by Adolescents: The Role of the Oral Health Professional in Evidence-based Cessation Programs

Department of Pediatric Dentistry
Resident’s Name:Murphy Program: Lutheran Medical Center - Providence
Article title: Tobacco Use by Adolescents: The Role of the Oral Health Professional in Evidence-based Cessation Programs
Author(s): David Alert, DDS Herbert Severson, PhD, Judy Andrews, PhD
Journal: Ped Dent.
Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2006. vol 28 #2. 177-186
Major topic: How we can help stop tobacco use by adol.
Minor topic(s): Health effects of tobacco
Main Purpose: To provide clinicians with info on tobacco and health, the epidemiology of adol tobacco use, and cessation programs for parents and patients.
Overview of method of research: Review

Findings:
The use of tobacco products, particularly smoking represents the leading cause of preventable illness and death in the developed world (this was a question on the boards this year). Major gains have been made to reduce smoking in adults, however similar gains have not been realized in adolescents. Most tobacco users admit to starting when they were an adol. Every year more than 1 million teenagers become habitual smokers. We, as clinicians, should start screening for smoking and tobacco product risk factors at age 10(this was a question on the boards this year). Also, we should encourage parents who smoke to quit smoking. If they cannot or will not quit, we should advice them to not smoke around the kids, to have a smoke free home, and to watch their kids for smoking signs.
Tobacco is bad for you. It can cause a number of cancers, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, reproductive complications, etc. Adol who smoke have a reduced rate of lung growth and level of maximum lung function. Exposure to second hand smoke can also hinder lung growth, and increase the incidence of developing lung cancer. Chronic smoking can lead to increased prevalence and severity of perio disease. Studies have shown that approx. 50% of all perio cases can be attributed to smoking. Smoking and smokeless tobacco use can cause the following oral health issues.
1.Loss of taste
2. perio disease
3. stained teeth
4. altered taste perception
5. intraoral lesions
5. gum recession
7. drifting of teeth
8. abrasion to tooth enamel
9. oral malodor
Tobacco use by youths is assoc. with many risk factors, including having parents/friends who smoke, comorbid psych disorders, weight concerns, and ADD.

Tobacco Cessation
The best public health strategy is to prevent tobacco use completely, or to intervene as early as possible. Most cessation programs are implemented by schools and in the community. However, the effectiveness of these programs decrease over time. Dentists are in a unique position of being able to associate cessation advice with readily visible changes in oral health and status. Brief tobacco cessation in the dental office has been found to be effective when directed at adults. Since nearly 75% of all adol see the dentist at least yearly for care, the dental office is the ideal place to implement cessation programs. However, more research is necessary in terms of directing the advice towards adol.
The “5 A’s” is a recommended process that clinicians can follow. They can be applied and completed in up to 3 minutes. However, the adol. Needs to be a willing participant. The five A’s include
1. Ask about tobacco use
2. Advise to quit
3.Asses willingness to quit
4. Assist in quitting
5. Arranging follow up
6. Anticipatory guidance
(Don’t ask me why they call it the “5” A’s, when there are actually 6…)

Various pharmacological therapies have been shown to be effective in tobacco cessation. Bupropion SR, nicotine gums and inhalers and sprays and patches are all available on the market today. The FDA does not condone the use of these drugs in adol, however they are still prescribed to children to aid in cessation. The AAPD does NOT approve of children using these medications (this was a question on the boards this year).

Key points/Summary:
1. Tobacco is bad for you.
2. As physicians, particularly ones who see children multiple times a year, it is our duty to screen for and to assess tobacco use and risk. We should be asking EVERY adol about tobacco use and exposure at every visit.
3. Adol who use tobacco are likely to use it in adulthood

Assessment of Article:
Great conference review. I’m sure all of you ask every adol. You treat about tobacco use every time you see them, I however do not. I need to do a better job, and be more aware of it. In the past tobacco use and cessation programs have been a focus on the boards. It was on the boards this year, but only for a few questions.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in Adolescence: A Review for the Pediatric Dentist

Resident: J. Hencler
Date: 05/25/2011

Article title: Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in Adolescence: A Review for the Pediatric Dentist
Author(s): Marcio A. da Fonseca, DDS, MS
Journal: Journal of dentistry for Children-76:3, 2009

Major topic: Substance abuse in adolescents

Type of Article: Literature review

Main Purpose: Review for the pediatric dentist

Key points in the article discussion:
Drug addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use. SUDs are maladaptive patterns of use accompanied by clinically significant impairment or distress, causing reduced functioning in major areas of life, risk-taking behavior, exposure to hazardous situation, and an increase in the likelihood of legal problems due to possession. Adolescents are more vulnerable to the risks of neuropathology as a result of substance abuse b/c their brains are still developing. Neurobiological changes during puberty contribute to 3 behavioral factors that relate to SUD development: 1) increase in peer affiliation; 2) decreased parental monitoring; and 3) risk-taking behaviors. The pediatric dentist is in a good position to help prevent and detect suspicious cases of substance abuse. Patterns of behavior that should raise suspicion include recent/sudden drop in grades, mood changes, school disciplinary action, antisocial behavior, drinking b/f 15 yo, and associating with peers w/ SUD. A good first step is to use the CRAFFT screening tool questions: 1) Ever ridden in a car driven by someone using alcohol/drugs? 2) Do you take drug to relax? 3) Do you take drugs while alone? 4) Do you forget things while using drugs? 5) Do people tell you to cut down on alcohol/drugs? 6) Have you gotten in trouble b/c alcohol/drugs? Drug addiction appears to have fast, severe, and deleterious effects in the oral cavity. Factors that contribute to increased risk of dental disease include: lack of adequate diet, dry mouth induced by drugs, tobacco, alcohol, and medications, poor OH, increased acidity, vomiting, and impaired smell and taste sensation leading to intake of heavily sweetened foods.

Summary of conclusions:
Any substance abuse by young patients carries high-risk b/c the likelihood of progression to more dangerous drugs and their effect on physical, physiologic, neurological, and emotional development. The key to recognition of substance abuse is the professional’s willingness to ask parents and adolescents about it.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Alcohol Abuse and dependence, Psycophathology, medical management and dental implications

Resident: Roberts

Date: 5/25/11

Article: Alcohol Abuse and dependence, Psycophathology, medical management and dental implications

Author: Arthur F, Stephen M, et al.

Journal: JADA

Volume: 134

Year: 2003


Definitions


Alcohol abuse is distinguished by the harmful consequences of repeated use such as: impairment in judgement, slurred speech, mood change, inability to fulfill obligations at school, work or home.


Background


14 million americans are affected. It is the 3 largest progressive psychiatric illness in the U.S. It has physiological altering effects such as low-grade hypertension leading to an increase in triglycerides and low density lipoproteins leaving an individual susceptible to coronary artery and cerebrovascular diseases. It is an irritant to the G.I. tract and may cause gastritis, stomach or duodenal ulcers. 20% of people with long- term consumption are believed to have cirrhosis and pancreatitis. The oral cavity is at risk for an increased chance of cancer of the oral cavity, pharynx, hypo-pharynx, larynx, esophagus and stomach. Salivary glands(mainly parotid) have been shown to enlarge over time with complications of xerostomia, periodontitis, glossitis and angular cheilitis. Regions of the brain(frontal lobes, limbic structures, hippocampus and cerebellum) are susceptible to atrophy and shrinkage with heavy long-term use. Poor nutrition due to caloric displacement can leave an individual deprived of nutrients such as proteins, minerals, trace elements, riboflavin, pyridoxine, vitamin E, D, and K, as well as enhanced excretion of magnesium and zinc. Fetuses are susceptible to the effects of excessive alcohol intake and have been proven to have a lack of normal neural circuitry and a host of behavioral problems. Individuals who drink alcohol should be aware of complications with concomitant use of other medications such as acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, antibiotics(cephalosporins, erythromycin, metronidazole, tetracycline), anti fungal agents, barbiturates, chloral hydrate, and opioids may cause harmful interactions.


Treatment


Involves confrontation and overcoming patients denial of problem, removing alcohol from the body which takes about 5 days(in which a person may undergo withdrawal symptoms...), Beta blockers can be given to reduce heart rate and tremors, rest and adequate nutrition(including multiple vitamins, especially thiamine and magnesium), rescue medications can be given which can reduce a person interest in alcohol or have unpleasant physical effects when a person consumes alcohol.


Conclusion


An alcohol abusing parent may not be fully capable of caring for some or all of the needs of their children. As pediatric dentist we should be helpful in identifying these situations and intervening where possible. As noted in the article, adolescents who consume alcohol at an earlier age are more likely to abuse alcohol later in life. We should work to educate are patients and parents on the oral and systemic problems that are associated with alcoholism.


Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Dental Needs and Status of Autistic Children: Results From the National Survey of Children’s Health

Article title: Dental Needs and Status of Autistic Children: Results From the National Survey of Children’s Health

Author(s): Kopycka-Kedzierawski & Auinger.

Journal: Pediatric Dentistry

Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2008. 30:1. 54-58.

Major topic: Dental Needs of Autistic Children

Overview of method of research: Survey

Background:
In a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on autism among 8-year-old children living in 14 areas of the US in 2002, the prevalence of children with autism ranged from 3.3-10.6 cases per 1,000 children.

Purpose:
To assess the oral health status and dental needs of a nationally representative sample of 1 to 17-year-old children with or without autism.

Methods:
In the 2003 National Survey of Children’s Health conducted, parents reported the status of their child’s health. A random-digit-dial sample of households with children under 18 years of age was selected from across the US and one child was randomly selected from within the household. The parent or guardian who was the most familiar with the child’s health status was chosen as the respondent. The weighted response rate was 55%. Interviews included questions about:
1. their children’s overall health, including oral status, physical and mental health status, function status
2. health care access and utilization
3. dental and medical insurance status
4. family functioning
5. social well-being
Interviews regarding 95,554 children over the age of 1 who had their natural dentition were conducted and of those, 495 parents answered yes to the question, “Has a doctor or health professional ever told you that (child’s name) has autism?”

Results:
Less than 1% of parents reported their children had autism. The parents of 52% of autistic children reported that their child’s teeth were in excellent or very good condition and another 30% in good condition. The parents of 69% of nonautistic children reported excellent or good children and another 22% in good condition.

Parents with an autistic child were more likely to report fair to poor condition of their child’s teeth than those nonautistic children. Autistic children were more likely than nonautistic children to be: 6-11 year old, male, no-Hispanic white, living in a household with more than a high school education and to have current health insurance.

Autistic and nonautistic children were comparable in regards to dental pain, presence of cavities, broken teeth, misaligned teeth, hygiene, discoloration, enamel problems or bruxism.

Nonautistic children were more likely to have gum problems, problems with nerves (root canal problems) and to have no specific problem even though their parent reported fair or poor teeth.

Key points/Summary:
Parents of US autistic children were more likely to report their children’s dentition to be in fair or poor condition than parents of US nonautistic children.
Autistic and nonautistic children with fair or poor teeth are faced with similar dental problems.

Assessment of Article:
Although the number of autistic children was small and therefore it was difficult to draw statistically significant results and the results were based on the reports of parents which were not verified, the fact that this was one of the largest surveys conducted on the heath of US children made this article interesting.

Parental Attitudes Regarding Behavior Guidance of Dental Patients with Autism

Meghan Sullivan Walsh May 17, 2011

Literature Review - St. Joseph/LMC Pediatric Dentistry




Parental Attitudes Regarding Behavior Guidance of Dental Patients with Autism


Resident: Meghan Sullivan Walsh


Program: Lutheran Medical Center- Providence


Article Title: Parental Attitudes Regarding Behavior Guidance of Dental Patients with Autism


Authors: Jennifer Marshall, DDS, MSD; Barbara Sheller, DDS, MSD; Lloyd Manci, PhD; Bryan J. Williams, DDS, MSD, MEd


Journal: Pediatric Dentistry


Volume (number), Year, Page #’s; 30, 5, Sep/Oct 08, pages 400-407.


Major Topic: Evaluating autistic parents’ ability to predict dental treatment cooperation and their attitude regarding behavior guidance techniques or (BGT).


Overview of Method of Research: Autistic children from a hospital, dental school and private practice were recruited for this study between 2003 to 2004. Prior to the child’s treatment at the next appointment parents were asked to predict what treatment would be accomplished and whether certain coping strategies would be effective. Post operatively another survey was handed to the parents regarding their acceptability of certain BGT’s and to rank their own anxiety at the dentist.


Findings: 85 Autistic children were analyzed with a mean age 9.6. The majority of the patients were from educated parents and most were treated for preventative recall (56%). Parents accurately predicted their child would allow for an examination (88%) and cooperate for radiographs (84%). However, they tended to overestimate their child’s willingness to cooperate regarding prophylaxis and fluoride treatment (54%) The parents did not differ before of after treatment on the efficacy of a particular BGT. 54% of parents also rated all BGT’s acceptable, basic BGT more acceptable than advanced. Protective stabilization acceptance were as follows; parental restraint (84%), staff restraint (63%), stabilization device (54%.) Dentists rated distraction (86%), frequent breaks (81%) and rewards (80%) the top three more effective BGT’s. When BGT’s were used, parents showed greater acceptability and efficacy post operatively. Parental opinion was also positive towards tell show do, mouth props, rewards, frequent breaks, parental restraint and hand-holding by a staff member.



Key Points: Summary: An important difference in this study to other studies on BGTs is that prior to the appointments, parents had consented and understood the methods of strategies and may have seen these methods already used on their children. The parents were overwhelmingly positive towards the many techniques and their efficacy. This is important to note that when parents are familiar to a particular technique or method before hand they are more willing to accept and act favorably towards the appointments. Interesting to note 92% were in favor of stabilization devices when they were directely involved in the care of their child. These finding emphasize the importance of informed consent and the positive impact it has on parental acceptance. Four major points were concluded for familial acceptance: 1) family involvement, 2) highly supportive and structured environment, 3) Predictability and routine, and 4) Functional approach to problem behaviors.


Assessment of the Article: Good clean research study. Would have liked to see parental attitudes towards BGT methods during more stressful appointments like operative, emergency, and GA. I do agree that having parents actively involved in the care and well aware of what is going on in the room, will save the clinician from potential miscommunications and misunderstandings regarding dental treatment.

The caries experience and behavior of dental patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Resident: Roberts

Date: 5/18/11

Article title: The caries experience and behavior of dental patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Authors: Cheen Loo, Graham Richard, et al.

Journal: JADA

Volume #: 139

Year: 2008



Background: The authors conducted a study to evaluate ASD with those who were unaffected by the disorder in the areas of: behavior, and caries prevelance.


Methods: The authors reviewed the patient charts of 395 patients with ASD and 386 charts of patients who did not have ASD. They noted age, sex, residence(home or institutionalized), presence of a seizure disorder, other diagnosis, medications, caries prevalence, caries severity, and behavior.


Results: ASD Male:Female ration of 4:1, Sex distribution was equal to the unaffected group, which was younger and had higher rates of DMFT than did the ASD group. A significantly higher percentage of patients with ASD were uncooperative and required dental treatment to take place under general anesthesia. In the ASD group 55.2 percent of patients were uncooperative (that is they exhibited either negative or definitely negative behavior and only 9.2 percent exhibited definitely positive behavior). Caries prevalence and severity of decay was not associated with institutionalization, presence of seizure disorder or additional diagnosis. Regarding ASD patients with primary teeth, they were 83.4 percent less likely to have caries than were those unaffected. In the permanent dentition, they were 65.9 percent less likely to have caries than were those unaffected. No significant difference was noted in the amount of decay severity between male and female patients with ASD.


Conclusion: People with ASD were more likely to be caries free and had lower DMFT scores than those were unaffected. Significantly more ASD patients were uncooperative and required GA to treat decay than did others.


Dental Care in Children With Developmental Disabilities: Attention Deficit Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, and Autism

Resident: Adam J. Bottrill
Date: 18MAY11
Region: Providence
Article title: Dental Care in Children With Developmental Disabilities: Attention Deficit Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, and Autism
Journal: Journal of Dentistry for Children
Page #s: 84-91
Vol:No Date: 72:2, 2010
Major topic: Developmental disabilities, ADD, Autism, Dental care
Minor topic(s): None
Type of Article: Descriptive article

Main Purpose: The purpose of this article was to describe the characteristics of 3 common developmental disabilities and the challenges these issues present to the oral health care practitioner.

Key points in the article discussion:

I. General:

A. 13% of all children peat the MCHB definition of children with SCHN.
B. SHCN Children almost twice as likely to have unmet oral healthcare needs.
C. Considerations: speciale diet, medication, self-unjurious behavior, communication problems, orofacial malformations,

II. ADHD
A. Prevalence of 4-12% with persistence into adolescence of 60-80%
B. Impulsivity, inatention, hyperactivity... I'm sorry, but this paragraph makes me laugh. It describes almost every child with whom I've ever interacted.
C. Three types:
1. Hyperactivity/Impulsivity
2. Inattentive
3. Combined
D. Suggestions for Tx:
1. Frequent breaks
2. Reinforcement of positive behavior.
3. Those children on meds may be more behaved after taking them.

III. Intellectual Disability (mental retardation)
A. Sub-average functioning in 2 or more of the following areas: communication, self-help, home living, social and interpersonal skills, use of community resources, self-direction, health, safety, leisure, work
B. Prevalence: 1%
C. Mild/Moderate/Severe/Profound
D. ID children often have co-morbidities
E. Anxiety and uncooperative behavior in the dental setting.
F. Abnormal tooth eruption, maloclusions, missing/fused teeth, microdontia, abnormal jaw structure, macroglossia, perio disease.
G. Latex allergy, cardiac problems
H. knowing the child's mental age will help with behavior management. Manage to the "mental age".
I. Communicate to the patient's level: reward behavior, verbal reinforcement.
J. Communicate with the parents in order to gain useful tips on how to control behavior.
K. "Desensitization visits", picture books, "blanky/bobo"

IV. ASDS
A. Autism, Asperger S, PDD
B. Prevalence: 6.5/1000
C. Common deficits include: language, social skills, restricted stereotyped patterns of behavior
D. Prevalence of ID in those with ASD: 50-60%
E. Unusual responses to common smells, tastes, textures
1. Can interfere with hygiene and nutrition
F. Higher prev of obesity
G. Challenging behaviors more prev during childhood than adolescence... ALTHOUGH rapid increases in size and strength make any of these behaviors more dangerous.
H. Sources of discomfort can always bring about behavior changes... Important to take thorough med history.
I. Generally, ASD kids have good oral health and average caries and perio rates.
J. Encourage parents and teachers to use NON food rewards.
H. Some medications have side effects including weight gain, abnormal movements and increased risk of diabetes.
I. Visual supports to increase chances of succesful visit: schedules, "social stories", books, pictures.
J. Some dentists keep a copy of a social story to send to families prior to visit.
K. Use the same staff, appointment time, day of the week etc...
L. ASK THE PARENTS... about everything.

Assessment of Article: The title of the article doesn't seem to accurately depict the content.