Purpose: The fibre-reinforced composite space maintainer (FRCSM) has been suggested as an alternative to the band-and-loop space maintainer (BLSM). The aim of this in-vivo study was to evaluate the clinical performance and the reasons for failure of the two types of fixed space maintainers over a six-month period. Methods: Twenty patients, ranging from 4-9 years old, were selected for this study. They were randomly divided into two groups (n=10) according to the type of space maintainer that was placed. The patients were recalled on a monthly basis for clinical evaluation over a period of six months. The two-sample t-test and the non-parametric Wilcoxon rank sum test were used for statistical analysis. results: Both groups of space maintainers had a 50% failure rate. The main reason for BLSM failure was bending of the wire with impingement on the soft tissue. The FRCSM failed due to debonding and fracture of the fibre loop. There was no statistically significant difference between the failure rates (P=0.53). conclusion: The clinical performances of both space maintainers were disappointing. Only 50% of fixed space maintainers were still clinically acceptable according to the strict evaluation criteria used. Further research is recommended on the loop-design FRCSM.

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) was developed in Japan in the 1960s. It is a clear solution containing silver and fluoride ions. Because of its anti-bacterial and remineralizing effect, silver diamine fluoride has been used in managing dental caries for decades worldwide. This paper aims to summarize and discuss the global policies, guidelines, and relevant information on utilizing SDF for caries management. SDF can be used for treating dental caries in most countries. However, it is not permitted to be used in mainland China. Several manufacturers, mainly in Australia, Brazil, India, Japan, and the United States, produce SDF at different concentrations that are commercially available around the world. The prices differ between contents and brands. Different government organizations and dental associations have developed guidelines for clinical use of SDF. Dental professionals can refer to the specific guidelines in their own countries or territories. Training for using SDF is part of undergraduate and/or postgraduate curriculums in almost all countries. However, real utilization of SDF of dentists, especially in the private sector, remains unclear in most places because little research has been conducted. There are at least two ongoing regional-wide large-scale oral health programs, using SDF as one of the components to manage dental caries in young children (one in Hong Kong and one in Mongolia). Because SDF treatment does not require caries removal, and it is simple, non-invasive, and inexpensive, SDF is a valuable strategy for caries management in young children, elderly people, and patients with special needs. In addition, to reduce the risk of bacteria or virus transmission in dental settings, using SDF as a non-aerosol producing procedure should be emphasized under the COVID-19 outbreak.

No abstract

Calcific metamorphosis (CM) or pulp canal obliteration (Fig. 1A-C) is a common occurrence following concussion and subluxation injuries. 1,2 Although the exact mechanism by which the canal obliterates is unknown, it is believed to be related to neurovascular damage and deposition of hard tissue within the canal. 3,4 This calcification of the pulp canal space results in a loss of translucency leaving the crown with a yellow discolouration (Fig. 2 and 3). 5 CM can be clinically detected as early as three months after injury but remains undetected in most cases for up to a year after trauma. [6][7][8] Asymptomatic teeth presenting with CM do not initially require treatment other than annual review. 1,9 However, the pulp status within partially obliterated canals may eventually lead to apical pathology requiring treatment. [10][11][12][13][14] Treatment protocols and exact intervention times for the treatment of CM remains controversial and a challenge for even the skilled clinician. [15][16][17] CM is a common outcome of trauma frequently associated with anterior teeth of young adults and is characterised by partial or total obliteration of the root canal. 6,8,15

Background: Vaccine hesitancy has seen an uprising over the decades, even though there have been many advances regarding vaccine-preventable diseases. Of late, vaccine hesitancy has resurged towards the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine. The SARS-CoV-2 virus has major effects on the human body and has led to the development of different vaccines, which have been shown to provide immunity against the novel coronavirus. Dentists are at an increased risk to COVID-19 because of the nature of their work. It is imperative to have high vaccination coverage for this group.Aim: The aim of this study is to determine vaccine hesitancy and drivers associated with vaccine hesitancy among dental students at a university in South Africa.Setting: A dental school in South Africa was chosen as the setting for this study.Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted by means of an anonymous, online, validated questionnaire to determine vaccine hesitancy.Results: Of the 205 dental students participated, 83.9% (n = 172) students were vaccine not hesitant. The main concerns regarding the vaccines were identified as safety and efficacy of the vaccine. Pressure by family or friends and the university to get vaccinated was evident.Conclusions: Vaccine hesitancy is high despite mandatory vaccination policies in South Africa. Specific drivers contributing to vaccine hesitancy were identified as doubt in the efficacy and safety of the vaccine.Contribution: This study has highlighted the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy among dental students at University of the Western Cape, prior to compulsory vacccination implementations.