Combined effect of carbon-dioxide laser and neutral 2% NaF on acid resistance of human tooth enamel

Specimens of human enamel were treated topically with 2% sodium fluoride solution before and after laser irradiation. The samples were examined using wet chemical analysis and SEM. The results showed that samples treated with neutral 2% NaF after irradiation caused a remarkable increase in acid resistance of the enamel, while samples treated with neutral 2% NaF before irradiation showed a lesser effect. The results were consistent with observations made by using wet chemical analysis and SEM findings.

Dental caries and oral hygiene amongst 12-14 years old handicapped children of Bombay, India

The present study was carried out to assess the oral health status of children suffering from different handicapping conditions studying in various schools of Bombay. A total of 593 handicapped children in the age group of 12-14 years were included in the study. The prevalence and severity of dental caries was found to be highest in the cerebral palsy group and lowest in the blind group. In general, in all the groups the decayed (D) component took predominance over the missing (M) and filled (F) components. Periodontal status was assessed using the CPITN and it was found that the bleeding & calculus components were higher than the healthy components in all the groups and almost all the children required treatment in the form of deep scaling and/or prophylaxis and oral hygiene instructions. The study confirmed the need of curative and preventive services towards these neglected children of the society.

Idiopathic gingival fibromatosis associated with mild hypertrichosis

A case of gingival fibromatosis with hypertrichosis is reported in a 10 year old girl. The condition is a syndrome and presents as a triad of gingival fibromatosis, hypertrichosis and mental retardation. Following surgical management, no recurrence was seen in the immediate post-surgical period. Even if recurrence occurs excision is recommended as the psychological benefits resulting from cosmetic improvement outweigh the danger of recurrence.