Current Dentistry - Current Issue

This study adopts a comprehensive approach to gathering relevant information. A thorough literature search included research articles, clinical studies, and reviews of the application of chitosan in dentistry. The selected sources were critically analyzed to identify key trends, outcomes, and advancements in the field. Chitosan, derived from chitin, has remarkable versatility in dental applications. It holds promise in multiple areas, including endodontic therapy, periodontal treatment, implant dentistry, oral surgery, and as an ingredient in restorative dental materials. Of note is the potential for dental pulp regeneration, which offers a promising avenue for tissue engineering in dentistry. This review revealed that the multifaceted properties of chitosan contribute to its ability to address a wide array of dental challenges, from root canal treatment to combating periodontal diseases and enhancing implant success rates. This review highlights the significant impact of chitosan on the reshaping of modern dental practices. Furthermore, by highlighting its versatile applications and potential benefits, this study contributes to our understanding of the transformative role of chitosan in dentistry. These findings emphasize the need for further research and exploration to unlock the full potential of chitosan, ultimately paving the way for innovative solutions to longstanding dental issues. As the capabilities of chitosan continue to evolve, it holds the potential to redefine dental care standards and establish itself as a cornerstone for future dental therapies.

Denture Stomatitis (DS) is a chronic atrophic candidiasis and is the most prevalent chronic inflammatory condition of the oral mucosa that serves as the foundation of dentures. The persistence of DS is determined by the Candida species, other microbes, the immune state of the host, and other factors. Patients who have other risk factors, such as inadequate oral hygiene, long-term denture usage, a diet rich in carbohydrates, and decreased salivary flow, are more prone to experience this. The application of conventional antifungals is not always successful in combating DS. The available literature related to the epidemiology and pathophysiology of denture stomatitis, the risk factors, and treatment options available for DS have been examined with special emphasis on phytoactive molecules using Pubmed and Google Scholar platforms. Moreover, the plant/phytoactive molecules (clove, cinnamon, curcumin, thyme, Aloe vera) molecule-derived products were also looked at for analyzing the market popularity of herbal products. Therefore, age old plant-based herbal molecules have been revisited by researchers in pursuit of developing an effective solution to DS, and clove, cinnamon, thyme, curcumin, and Aloe vera have been reviewed in the present article. An update on the herbal formulations in the form of ointment, mouthwash, toothpaste, etc., that are either in the market or in trials has also been presented in the article. A systematic and comprehensive review of the scientific literature related to the five aforementioned plant extracts and their active molecules has been presented here. The review gives a detailed insight into the pharmacological properties other than DS also. Moreover, the review also highlighted the gaps which need more strategic and scientific attention for the quick translation of information into therapy of clinical relevance.

Oral drug delivery systems, including fluoride supplements, constitute one of the most prevalent routes for the administration of medications, playing a crucial role in the treatment and prevention of various diseases, including dental caries. Fluorides, employed as a preventive and control measure against dental caries, are available in two primary forms: Systemic fluorides and topical fluorides. Topical fluorides are found in toothpaste, varnish, gels, mouth rinses, and washes, while systemic fluorides are administered via lozenges, tablets, and liquid formulations.

This literature work focuses on the specific challenges associated with fluoride supplement formulations and aims to shed light on potential setbacks. Among these challenges, poor patient compliance, especially in pediatric populations, and the associated risk of underdosing or overdosing, leading to fluorosis, stand out as significant concerns. If left unaddressed, these issues could compromise the efficacy of one of the most effective caries prevention methods available.

The primary objective of this study is to explore advancements in fluoride supplement formulations, with a particular emphasis on addressing the identified challenges, especially for pediatric and geriatric patients. By devising improved formulations tailored to the unique needs of these populations, we aim to mitigate compliance issues and minimize the associated risk factors, thereby strengthening the effectiveness of dental caries prevention strategies. This research endeavors to contribute valuable insights to the field of oral healthcare and pharmaceutical development, ultimately promoting better oral health outcomes for individuals of all ages.