Assessment of oral problems and dental status of autistic children in comparison to a matched group of non-autistic healthy children in Benghazi, Libya.1
Background- Oral health is a multi-factorial concept, determined by knowledge, behavior, and attitude of a person. Like any behavior carried out daily like a habit, oral health behaviors are also repeated like a habit. The multidimensionality of behavioral change makes studying it, and factors associated with it, a challenge, since there are so many aspects to consider. Objectives- To find an association between the oral health status and socio-behavioral factors among 12-15 years old school children of Belagavi city, India. Methods- A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to find an association between the oral health status and the knowledge, attitude and behavior of adolescents. One thousand participants were selected using two-stage random sampling. Dental caries, bleeding on probing, dental trauma, enamel fluorosis, intervention urgency was recorded according to the WHO 2013 proforma and the parameters regarding knowledge, attitudes as well as behavior using a closed ended self-designed questionnaire. Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal Wallis, and linear correlation tests were done. Results- Among 1000 subjects, 767 (76.7%) participants were found to have dental caries and 512 (51.2%) showed the presence of gingival bleeding. Out of a total score of 41, the mean knowledge score was 34.47 (±3.84) for boys and 34.76 (±4.13) for girls. Linear correlation showed that attitude was weakly correlated (r=0.18 and 0.20 respectively) but with a strong statistical significance to knowledge as well as behavior respectively. Conclusion- Attitude when compared separately either with knowledge or behavior showed a weak correlation that was highly significant. Comparison of behavior with caries experience showed a weak negative correlation which was statistically insignificant. Key-words- Oral health, Adolescents, Socio-behavioral, Knowledge, Attitude, Behavior
School Children Dental Health, Dental Fear and Anxiety in relation to their P...iosrjce
IOSR Journal of Nursing and health Science is ambitious to disseminate information and experience in education, practice and investigation between medicine, nursing and all the sciences involved in health care. Nursing & Health Sciences focuses on the international exchange of knowledge in nursing and health sciences. The journal publishes peer-reviewed papers on original research, education and clinical practice.
By encouraging scholars from around the world to share their knowledge and expertise, the journal aims to provide the reader with a deeper understanding of the lived experience of nursing and health sciences and the opportunity to enrich their own area of practice. The journal publishes original papers, reviews, special and general articles, case management etc.
Background- Oral health is a multi-factorial concept, determined by knowledge, behavior, and attitude of a person. Like any behavior carried out daily like a habit, oral health behaviors are also repeated like a habit. The multidimensionality of behavioral change makes studying it, and factors associated with it, a challenge, since there are so many aspects to consider. Objectives- To find an association between the oral health status and socio-behavioral factors among 12-15 years old school children of Belagavi city, India. Methods- A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to find an association between the oral health status and the knowledge, attitude and behavior of adolescents. One thousand participants were selected using two-stage random sampling. Dental caries, bleeding on probing, dental trauma, enamel fluorosis, intervention urgency was recorded according to the WHO 2013 proforma and the parameters regarding knowledge, attitudes as well as behavior using a closed ended self-designed questionnaire. Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal Wallis, and linear correlation tests were done. Results- Among 1000 subjects, 767 (76.7%) participants were found to have dental caries and 512 (51.2%) showed the presence of gingival bleeding. Out of a total score of 41, the mean knowledge score was 34.47 (±3.84) for boys and 34.76 (±4.13) for girls. Linear correlation showed that attitude was weakly correlated (r=0.18 and 0.20 respectively) but with a strong statistical significance to knowledge as well as behavior respectively. Conclusion- Attitude when compared separately either with knowledge or behavior showed a weak correlation that was highly significant. Comparison of behavior with caries experience showed a weak negative correlation which was statistically insignificant. Key-words- Oral health, Adolescents, Socio-behavioral, Knowledge, Attitude, Behavior
School Children Dental Health, Dental Fear and Anxiety in relation to their P...iosrjce
IOSR Journal of Nursing and health Science is ambitious to disseminate information and experience in education, practice and investigation between medicine, nursing and all the sciences involved in health care. Nursing & Health Sciences focuses on the international exchange of knowledge in nursing and health sciences. The journal publishes peer-reviewed papers on original research, education and clinical practice.
By encouraging scholars from around the world to share their knowledge and expertise, the journal aims to provide the reader with a deeper understanding of the lived experience of nursing and health sciences and the opportunity to enrich their own area of practice. The journal publishes original papers, reviews, special and general articles, case management etc.
Impact of school-based dental program performance on the oral health-related ...UniversitasGadjahMada
This study was done in order to assess the association between the performance of school-based dental programs (SBDPs) and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in
school children, in the province of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, taking into account untreated caries and sociodemographic factors. A cross-sectional survey was administered with 1906 children aged 12 and participating in SBDPs. Four SBDPs were chosen to represent good and poor performance in urban and rural areas. Caries was assessed using World Health Organization (WHO) criteria, whereas the children were interviewed for the OHRQoL and sociodemographic data. The OHRQoL was assessed using the Condition-Specific Child-Oral Impact on Daily Performances (CS Child-OIDP) index related to dental caries. The results revealed that the mean CS Child-OIDP score was 1.63 (SD 3.20) for good performance SBDP and 6.89 (SD 8.85) for poor performance SBDP. Analysis by negative binomial regression showed that being served by a poorly performing SBDP (RR = 4.45, 95% CI = 3.87–5.13), and to some extent living in a rural area and being a girl, were significantly associated with a greater risk of having a lower quality of life than were the counterparts. Untreated caries did not show an association with OHRQoL. In conclusion, there are substantial indications that SBDP performance is related to children’s OHRQoL.
130 The Journal of Dental Hygiene Vol. 88 • No. 2 • April 2014.docxmoggdede
130 The Journal of Dental Hygiene Vol. 88 • No. 2 • April 2014
Introduction
Early-severe childhood caries re-
mains a significant public dental
health issue in the U.S. and interna-
tionally.1 The most common chronic
disease in children, dental caries is
5-times more prevalent than asthma
and 7-times more prevalent than
hay fever.2 Approximately 19% of
U.S. children aged 2 to 4 have ex-
perienced visually detectable den-
tal decay. Data from the National
Health Nutrition Examination Survey
(NHANES) reveal that the number of
children aged 2 to 5 with dental car-
ies increased from 24 to 28% from
1999 to 2004.3 Nineteen percent of
U.S. children aged 2 to 4 have visu-
ally detectable dental caries.4 Over-
all, children of poverty experience
more extensive dental disease and
have less access to dental care.5,6 For
example, 25% of children living in
poverty have not seen a dentist be-
fore the age of 5, experience twice
the dental caries as their more afflu-
ent peers and are more likely to have
untreated oral disease.4-6
In 2005, the Virginia Department of Medical As-
sistance Services introduced the Smiles For Children
(SFC) program, providing coverage for diagnostic,
preventive and restorative/surgical procedures, as
well as orthodontic services for Medicaid, Family Ac-
cess to Medical Services Plan (FAMIS) and FAMIS
Plus children.7 The program also provides coverage
for limited medically necessary oral surgery services
for adults age 21 and older. Reasons cited by par-
ents for not involving their children in preventive
dental programs or establishing an ongoing dental
provider or dental home include the inability to take
time off from work, living a transient lifestyle and
being unable to find a dentist who participates in
the SFC program.7-11 Dentists are reluctant to par-
Oral Health Promotion: Knowledge, Confidence,
and Practices in Preventing Early-Severe Childhood
Caries of Virginia WIC Program Personnel
Lorraine Ann Fuller, RDH, MS; Sharon C. Stull, CDA, BSDH, MS; Michele L Darby, BSDH, MS;
Susan Lynn Tolle, BSDH MS
Abstract
Purpose: This study assessed the oral health knowledge, confi-
dence and practices of Virginia personnel in the Special Supple-
mental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).
Methods: In 2009, 257 WIC personnel were electronically emailed
via an investigator-designed 22-item Survey Monkey® question-
naire. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Fishers Exact tests
compared personnel demographics and oral health knowledge,
confidence and practices at the p≤0.01 and 0.05 significance level.
Results: Response rate was 68%. WIC personnel were knowl-
edgeable about basic oral health concepts. More than half of those
reporting were not confident assessing for visual signs of dental
decay and do not routinely assess for visual signs of decay. Only
4% of personnel apply fluoride therapy.
Conclusion: Findings support the need for health promotion/dis-
ease pre ...
Assess the Oral Hygiene Practices, Occurrence of Dental Caries and Gingivitis...ijtsrd
Background Dental caries continues to be a major health issue for worldwide population which decreases individual’s quality of life. In children dental caries and gingivitis are major health problem due to lack of preventive efforts and change in dietary requirement. According to WHO, oral health awareness among children can be promoted through schools by improving good knowledge, attitude and behavior related to oral health that will be helpful for prevention and control of dental diseases among children. Hence there is a necessity to find out oral hygiene practices and occurrence of dental caries among school age children. With this background, researcher make a plan to conduct a survey with the following objective. Objective To assess dental caries, gingivitis and oral hygiene practices among school age children in a selected community area. Methodology A quantitative approach with cross sectional descriptive design was used to assess dental caries, gingivitis and oral hygiene practices among children. 195 school going children residing in rural area of Doiwala block were selected by using convenience sampling technique. Data was collected by pretested questionnaire. Ethical permission was obtained from institutional ethical committee and informed consent was taken from study participants. Results The statistical finding shows that 184 94.36 mothers had not attend any education related to dental hygiene previously. Maximum mothers 97.95 have taught their child how to brush the teeth. It was surprising to note that 144 58.96 of children found to be suffering from dental caries. It was found that 38.79 of children were suffering with teeth pain. Very less 45 29.9 children had reported that they had visited dentist. There was significant association found between material use for remove food debris between the teeth’s and dental caries at p .001 . There was also significant association found between technique use for brushing teeth and dental caries p 0.003 . Conclusion The research findings showed that school age children give very less importance to oral hygiene. In this study we found greater need of health education and encouraging parents regarding children oral hygiene which can be beneficial to prevent dental caries among school going children. Mr. John Davidson | Ms. Mugdha Devi Sharan Sharma | Mr. Atul Kumar "Assess the Oral Hygiene Practices, Occurrence of Dental Caries and Gingivitis among School Age Children" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-4 | Issue-6 , October 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd32964.pdf Paper Url: https://www.ijtsrd.com/medicine/nursing/32964/assess-the-oral-hygiene-practices-occurrence-of-dental-caries-and-gingivitis-among-school-age-children/mr-john-davidson
Oral health Knowledge, attitudes and behaviour among a sample of Kurdish peop...iosrjce
IOSR Journal of Dental and Medical Sciences is one of the speciality Journal in Dental Science and Medical Science published by International Organization of Scientific Research (IOSR). The Journal publishes papers of the highest scientific merit and widest possible scope work in all areas related to medical and dental science. The Journal welcome review articles, leading medical and clinical research articles, technical notes, case reports and others.
Impact of school-based dental program performance on the oral health-related ...UniversitasGadjahMada
This study was done in order to assess the association between the performance of school-based dental programs (SBDPs) and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in
school children, in the province of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, taking into account untreated caries and sociodemographic factors. A cross-sectional survey was administered with 1906 children aged 12 and participating in SBDPs. Four SBDPs were chosen to represent good and poor performance in urban and rural areas. Caries was assessed using World Health Organization (WHO) criteria, whereas the children were interviewed for the OHRQoL and sociodemographic data. The OHRQoL was assessed using the Condition-Specific Child-Oral Impact on Daily Performances (CS Child-OIDP) index related to dental caries. The results revealed that the mean CS Child-OIDP score was 1.63 (SD 3.20) for good performance SBDP and 6.89 (SD 8.85) for poor performance SBDP. Analysis by negative binomial regression showed that being served by a poorly performing SBDP (RR = 4.45, 95% CI = 3.87–5.13), and to some extent living in a rural area and being a girl, were significantly associated with a greater risk of having a lower quality of life than were the counterparts. Untreated caries did not show an association with OHRQoL. In conclusion, there are substantial indications that SBDP performance is related to children’s OHRQoL.
130 The Journal of Dental Hygiene Vol. 88 • No. 2 • April 2014.docxmoggdede
130 The Journal of Dental Hygiene Vol. 88 • No. 2 • April 2014
Introduction
Early-severe childhood caries re-
mains a significant public dental
health issue in the U.S. and interna-
tionally.1 The most common chronic
disease in children, dental caries is
5-times more prevalent than asthma
and 7-times more prevalent than
hay fever.2 Approximately 19% of
U.S. children aged 2 to 4 have ex-
perienced visually detectable den-
tal decay. Data from the National
Health Nutrition Examination Survey
(NHANES) reveal that the number of
children aged 2 to 5 with dental car-
ies increased from 24 to 28% from
1999 to 2004.3 Nineteen percent of
U.S. children aged 2 to 4 have visu-
ally detectable dental caries.4 Over-
all, children of poverty experience
more extensive dental disease and
have less access to dental care.5,6 For
example, 25% of children living in
poverty have not seen a dentist be-
fore the age of 5, experience twice
the dental caries as their more afflu-
ent peers and are more likely to have
untreated oral disease.4-6
In 2005, the Virginia Department of Medical As-
sistance Services introduced the Smiles For Children
(SFC) program, providing coverage for diagnostic,
preventive and restorative/surgical procedures, as
well as orthodontic services for Medicaid, Family Ac-
cess to Medical Services Plan (FAMIS) and FAMIS
Plus children.7 The program also provides coverage
for limited medically necessary oral surgery services
for adults age 21 and older. Reasons cited by par-
ents for not involving their children in preventive
dental programs or establishing an ongoing dental
provider or dental home include the inability to take
time off from work, living a transient lifestyle and
being unable to find a dentist who participates in
the SFC program.7-11 Dentists are reluctant to par-
Oral Health Promotion: Knowledge, Confidence,
and Practices in Preventing Early-Severe Childhood
Caries of Virginia WIC Program Personnel
Lorraine Ann Fuller, RDH, MS; Sharon C. Stull, CDA, BSDH, MS; Michele L Darby, BSDH, MS;
Susan Lynn Tolle, BSDH MS
Abstract
Purpose: This study assessed the oral health knowledge, confi-
dence and practices of Virginia personnel in the Special Supple-
mental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).
Methods: In 2009, 257 WIC personnel were electronically emailed
via an investigator-designed 22-item Survey Monkey® question-
naire. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Fishers Exact tests
compared personnel demographics and oral health knowledge,
confidence and practices at the p≤0.01 and 0.05 significance level.
Results: Response rate was 68%. WIC personnel were knowl-
edgeable about basic oral health concepts. More than half of those
reporting were not confident assessing for visual signs of dental
decay and do not routinely assess for visual signs of decay. Only
4% of personnel apply fluoride therapy.
Conclusion: Findings support the need for health promotion/dis-
ease pre ...
Assess the Oral Hygiene Practices, Occurrence of Dental Caries and Gingivitis...ijtsrd
Background Dental caries continues to be a major health issue for worldwide population which decreases individual’s quality of life. In children dental caries and gingivitis are major health problem due to lack of preventive efforts and change in dietary requirement. According to WHO, oral health awareness among children can be promoted through schools by improving good knowledge, attitude and behavior related to oral health that will be helpful for prevention and control of dental diseases among children. Hence there is a necessity to find out oral hygiene practices and occurrence of dental caries among school age children. With this background, researcher make a plan to conduct a survey with the following objective. Objective To assess dental caries, gingivitis and oral hygiene practices among school age children in a selected community area. Methodology A quantitative approach with cross sectional descriptive design was used to assess dental caries, gingivitis and oral hygiene practices among children. 195 school going children residing in rural area of Doiwala block were selected by using convenience sampling technique. Data was collected by pretested questionnaire. Ethical permission was obtained from institutional ethical committee and informed consent was taken from study participants. Results The statistical finding shows that 184 94.36 mothers had not attend any education related to dental hygiene previously. Maximum mothers 97.95 have taught their child how to brush the teeth. It was surprising to note that 144 58.96 of children found to be suffering from dental caries. It was found that 38.79 of children were suffering with teeth pain. Very less 45 29.9 children had reported that they had visited dentist. There was significant association found between material use for remove food debris between the teeth’s and dental caries at p .001 . There was also significant association found between technique use for brushing teeth and dental caries p 0.003 . Conclusion The research findings showed that school age children give very less importance to oral hygiene. In this study we found greater need of health education and encouraging parents regarding children oral hygiene which can be beneficial to prevent dental caries among school going children. Mr. John Davidson | Ms. Mugdha Devi Sharan Sharma | Mr. Atul Kumar "Assess the Oral Hygiene Practices, Occurrence of Dental Caries and Gingivitis among School Age Children" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-4 | Issue-6 , October 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd32964.pdf Paper Url: https://www.ijtsrd.com/medicine/nursing/32964/assess-the-oral-hygiene-practices-occurrence-of-dental-caries-and-gingivitis-among-school-age-children/mr-john-davidson
Oral health Knowledge, attitudes and behaviour among a sample of Kurdish peop...iosrjce
IOSR Journal of Dental and Medical Sciences is one of the speciality Journal in Dental Science and Medical Science published by International Organization of Scientific Research (IOSR). The Journal publishes papers of the highest scientific merit and widest possible scope work in all areas related to medical and dental science. The Journal welcome review articles, leading medical and clinical research articles, technical notes, case reports and others.
- Video recording of this lecture in English language: https://youtu.be/lK81BzxMqdo
- Video recording of this lecture in Arabic language: https://youtu.be/Ve4P0COk9OI
- Link to download the book free: https://nephrotube.blogspot.com/p/nephrotube-nephrology-books.html
- Link to NephroTube website: www.NephroTube.com
- Link to NephroTube social media accounts: https://nephrotube.blogspot.com/p/join-nephrotube-on-social-media.html
Muktapishti is a traditional Ayurvedic preparation made from Shoditha Mukta (Purified Pearl), is believed to help regulate thyroid function and reduce symptoms of hyperthyroidism due to its cooling and balancing properties. Clinical evidence on its efficacy remains limited, necessitating further research to validate its therapeutic benefits.
The Gram stain is a fundamental technique in microbiology used to classify bacteria based on their cell wall structure. It provides a quick and simple method to distinguish between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, which have different susceptibilities to antibiotics
Basavarajeeyam is an important text for ayurvedic physician belonging to andhra pradehs. It is a popular compendium in various parts of our country as well as in andhra pradesh. The content of the text was presented in sanskrit and telugu language (Bilingual). One of the most famous book in ayurvedic pharmaceutics and therapeutics. This book contains 25 chapters called as prakaranas. Many rasaoushadis were explained, pioneer of dhatu druti, nadi pareeksha, mutra pareeksha etc. Belongs to the period of 15-16 century. New diseases like upadamsha, phiranga rogas are explained.
263778731218 Abortion Clinic /Pills In Harare ,sisternakatoto
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Tom Selleck Health: A Comprehensive Look at the Iconic Actor’s Wellness Journeygreendigital
Tom Selleck, an enduring figure in Hollywood. has captivated audiences for decades with his rugged charm, iconic moustache. and memorable roles in television and film. From his breakout role as Thomas Magnum in Magnum P.I. to his current portrayal of Frank Reagan in Blue Bloods. Selleck's career has spanned over 50 years. But beyond his professional achievements. fans have often been curious about Tom Selleck Health. especially as he has aged in the public eye.
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Introduction
Many have been interested in Tom Selleck health. not only because of his enduring presence on screen but also because of the challenges. and lifestyle choices he has faced and made over the years. This article delves into the various aspects of Tom Selleck health. exploring his fitness regimen, diet, mental health. and the challenges he has encountered as he ages. We'll look at how he maintains his well-being. the health issues he has faced, and his approach to ageing .
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Athletic Beginnings
Tom Selleck was born on January 29, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in Sherman Oaks, California. From an early age, he was involved in sports, particularly basketball. which played a significant role in his physical development. His athletic pursuits continued into college. where he attended the University of Southern California (USC) on a basketball scholarship. This early involvement in sports laid a strong foundation for his physical health and disciplined lifestyle.
Transition to Acting
Selleck's transition from an athlete to an actor came with its physical demands. His first significant role in "Magnum P.I." required him to perform various stunts and maintain a fit appearance. This role, which he played from 1980 to 1988. necessitated a rigorous fitness routine to meet the show's demands. setting the stage for his long-term commitment to health and wellness.
Fitness Regimen
Workout Routine
Tom Selleck health and fitness regimen has evolved. adapting to his changing roles and age. During his "Magnum, P.I." days. Selleck's workouts were intense and focused on building and maintaining muscle mass. His routine included weightlifting, cardiovascular exercises. and specific training for the stunts he performed on the show.
Selleck adjusted his fitness routine as he aged to suit his body's needs. Today, his workouts focus on maintaining flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. He incorporates low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and light weightlifting. This balanced approach helps him stay fit without putting undue strain on his joints and muscles.
Importance of Flexibility and Mobility
In recent years, Selleck has emphasized the importance of flexibility and mobility in his fitness regimen. Understanding the natural decline in muscle mass and joint flexibility with age. he includes stretching and yoga in his routine. These practices help prevent injuries, improve posture, and maintain mobilit
Best Ayurvedic medicine for Gas and IndigestionSwastikAyurveda
Here is the updated list of Top Best Ayurvedic medicine for Gas and Indigestion and those are Gas-O-Go Syp for Dyspepsia | Lavizyme Syrup for Acidity | Yumzyme Hepatoprotective Capsules etc
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New Drug Discovery and Development .....NEHA GUPTA
The "New Drug Discovery and Development" process involves the identification, design, testing, and manufacturing of novel pharmaceutical compounds with the aim of introducing new and improved treatments for various medical conditions. This comprehensive endeavor encompasses various stages, including target identification, preclinical studies, clinical trials, regulatory approval, and post-market surveillance. It involves multidisciplinary collaboration among scientists, researchers, clinicians, regulatory experts, and pharmaceutical companies to bring innovative therapies to market and address unmet medical needs.
Light House Retreats: Plant Medicine Retreat Europe
paper.pdf
1. Libyan Journal of Science & Technology 14:1 (2022) 54-58
Assessment of oral problems and dental status of autistic children in comparison to a
matched group of non-autistic healthy children in Benghazi, Libya.1
Najat M. Elamami*, Najma M. Alamami
Department of Peodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Benghazi, Libya
Highlights
A cross-sectional study compares autistic children with their healthy relatives as controls to match the age, sex,
and general dental care background.
children with autism in Benghazi experienced moderate levels of attrition and gingivitis, their caries level was
lower than their counterparts.
Most autistic children required some or complete assistance during tooth brushing.
Oral health education programs should be planned to provide appropriate preventive protocol as well as an
effective treatment for this special section of society.
The dentist in Libya needs additional training in providing oral health care for autistic children.
A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T
Article history:
Received 23 April 2022
Revised 29 March 2022
Accepted 30 March 2022
Purpose: The aim of this study is to assess oral problems and the dental status of autistic chil-
dren in comparison to a matched group of non-autistic healthy children in Benghazi, Libya.
Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study included 60 (38 males, 22 fe-
males) children with autism and a control group consisting of 60 healthy children, selected
from relatives of the autistic patients in an attempt to match the two groups concerning age,
sex, and general dental care background. Both groups were recruited and examined in a reha-
bilitation center for Autism spectrum disorder ASD children in Benghazi, Libya. The age of
children in both groups ranged from 4-14 years. Oral problems involving oral infections, erup-
tion patterns, developmental dental anomalies, and tooth fractures were all assessed clinically
while; bruxism assessment was based on the attrition shown on enamel surfaces of all teeth.
Dental caries, gingival health, and oral hygiene status were assessed using dmft/DMFT index,
Gingival Index (GI), and Plaque Index (PI), respectively. Results were tabulated and statically
analyzed using a t-test or (Mann-Whitney) for quantitative variables or variables not normally
distributed. Similarly, comparison, as regards qualitative variables, will be done using chi-
square, Fisher exact, or Monte Carlo correction as indicated. Results: No statistically signifi-
cant differences were presented between both groups, as regards oral infection (P=0.097),
eruption pattern (P=0.428), tooth fracture (p=0.119), and developmental dental anomalies
(p=0.381). However, there was a statistically significant difference between autistic and non-
autistic children with respect to attrition due to bruxism (p<0.001), More enamel attrition was
observed in autistic children (26.7% vs 1.7%). On the other hand, the mean dmft score was
lower in children with autism than in controls (5.23 vs. 4.06; P < 0.001) these differences were
not statistically significant. Moreover, children with autism revealed moderate levels of gingi-
vitis and dental plaque compared to their control group with no statistically significant
(p=0.188),(p= 0.157) respectively. Conclusions: children with autism in Benghazi experienced
moderate levels of attrition and gingivitis, and their caries level was lower than their counter-
parts. Therefore, oral health education programs should be planned to provide appropriate
preventive protocol as well as effective treatment for this special section of society.
Keywords:
Autistic children, Oral problems, Dental caries,
Oral hygiene status.
*Address of correspondence:
E-mail address: alamaminajma@gmail.com
N. M. Elamami
1. Introduction
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is considered a lifelong neu-
rodevelopmental condition with early childhood onset. It is charac-
terized by persistent impairments in communication and social in-
teraction. The child shows repetitive or restricted patterns of inter-
ests and behavior, as well as activities and unusual sensory inter-
ests or sensitivities. ASD may occur in association with any level of
general intellectual/learning ability, with manifestations ranging
from impaired social function and subtle problems of understand-
ing to severe disabilities (Edition, 2013). In 2011, The Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the prevalence
1
2022 University of Benghazi. All rights reserved.1ISSN: Online 2663-1407, Print 2663-1393; National Library of Libya, Legal number: 390/2018
of Autistic Disorder criteria, ranges in numbers up to 12 per 1000
children worldwide (Kopetz and Endowed, 2012). Genetic factors
such as gene mutations, gene deletions, copy number variants, and
other genetic anomalies are all persuasively linked to ASD (Rutter,
2005). However, the exact mechanism by which genes are impli-
cated in autism is unclear (Minshew, 1996).
Despite the fact that no oral manifestation is known to be cor-
related with autism, oral problems might arise because of autism-
related behaviors. Communication limitations, self-injurious be-
haviors, personal neglect, medications, dietary habits, resistance to
receiving dental care, hyposensitivity to pain, and possible avoid-
ance of social contact are defiantly factors that compromise the oral
2. Elamami & Alamami/Libyan Journal of Science & Technology 14:1(2022) 5458
55
health of autistic patients (Regn et al., 1999). The harmful oral hab-
its, which are common in children with (ASD), include tongue
thrusting, bruxism, and lip biting, and picking at the gingiva. The
rate of dental injuries mainly the enamel fracture is higher among
autistic children and the permanent maxillary central incisors are
the most frequently injured teeth (McDonald et al. (2011)).
Several studies have reported that the prevalence of caries, gin-
givitis, and poor oral hygiene are high in autistic individuals (Jaber,
2011, Subramaniam and Gupta, 2011), while others reported no
differences in oral health status between autistics and controls
(DeMattei et al., 2007, Namal et al., 2007); in some studies, the
prevalence of caries in children with autism may even be compar-
atively lower (Namal et al., 2007) (Loo et al., 2008).
Although the dental literature reveals data on the oral health
status of autistic patients, few statistics are available in Libya re-
garding the oral health condition of children with ASD. Such evi-
dence would assist the pediatric dentists to plan and provide appro-
priate preventive protocol as well as operative treatment for this
group of children. For that reason, this study was planned and con-
ducted to assess the oral problems and dental status of autistic chil-
dren attending the rehabilitation center for ASD in Benghazi in
comparison to a matched group of non-autistic healthy children, to
establish baseline data needed for ASD children in Benghazi–Libya.
2. Patients and Methods
A cross-sectional comparative study was carried out over 6
months starting from February to July 2017. A total of 120 children
were included in the study, 60 with autism and 60 healthy controls
were selected from relatives of the autistic patients in an attempt
to match the two groups for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and
general dental care background. Both groups were recruited and
examined in the rehabilitation center for ASD children in Benghazi,
Libya. The age of children in both groups ranged from 4-14 years.
At the time of the study, there were 90 autistic patients attending
rehabilitation centers for ASD in Benghazi, Libya. Based on the in-
clusion criteria, only 60 autistic children [38 males (63.3 %), 22 fe-
males (36.7%)] were included in this study. The inclusion criteria
were defined before sample screening and consisted of the follow-
ing: diagnosis of autistic patients by medical specialists, obtaining
written informed consent from the parents of children for their
participation in the study. The non-autistic children with any other
systemic disease known to cause dental problems and extremely
uncooperative were excluded from the study. The study was ap-
proved by the rehabilitation center for ASD in Benghazi, Libya. De-
mographic and dental data were collected from each child using a
questionnaire and a clinical examination (Pinkham, 2005). The ex-
aminer was trained and calibrated on oral examination of children
to develop an acceptable degree of intra-examiner reliability
(Kappa statistic) (Organization, 1997). Following a complete med-
ical history, the examination of the soft and hard tissues was done
under ordinary room light using a plane mouth mirror and dental
explorer, disposable gloves, and gauze. dental caries experience
was assessed according to the WHO caries diagnostic criteria for
epidemiological studies (Organization, 1997), using the decayed,
missing, and filled tooth index (DMFT) for permanent teeth. While
decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) index was used for pri-
mary teeth. Oral hygiene was assessed according to the Silness and
Loe plaque index (Sillness, 1964). Gingival conditions were as-
sessed according to the Loe and Silnes Gingival index (GI) (Löe,
1967). Bruxism assessment was based on the attrition shown on
enamel surfaces of all teeth. Infections involving soft tissues, erup-
tion patterns, developmental dental anomalies, and tooth fractures
were all assessed clinically.
Comparison between the two groups was done using t-test or
(Mann-Whitney) for quantitative variables (or variables not nor-
mally distributed). Similarly, comparison, as regards qualitative
variables, was done using chi-square or Fisher exact as indicated.
The significance of the obtained results was judged at the 5% level.
IBM SPSS version 20.0 (Kirkpatrick, 2015) was used to analyze
these data.
3. Results
The majority of the children in both groups were males they
represented 63.3% of the study sample. The mean age was
(7.41±3.41 years) in autistic children and (7.32±3.53 years) in non-
autistic children. In an attempt to match the two groups, the con-
trols were either siblings of the autistic child (45%) or cousins
(55%). No statistically significant differences between the two
groups regarding gender or age distribution (p=1.000).
Five types of oral problems were identified among the study
subjects. There were no statistically significant differences pre-
sented between both groups as regards oral infection (p= 0.097),
eruption pattern (p=0.428), tooth fracture (p=0.119) and develop-
mental dental anomalies (p=0.381). About 33% of autistic children
had oral infections compared to a prevalence of 25 % of non-autis-
tic children. Delay of tooth eruption was observed in three 'non-
autistic children whereas, no autistic children had a delay in tooth
eruption. In autistic and non-autistic children, tooth fracture was
present in 20% and 26.7% respectively. On the other hand, there
was a statistically significant difference between autistic and non-
autistic children concerning attrition due to bruxism (<0.001) see
Fig. 1. More enamel attrition was observed in autistic children
(26.7%) versus (1.7%) in non-autistic children.
Table 1
The proportion of oral infection, eruption pattern, developmental dental anomalies, tooth fracture and attrition in both groups
Autistic children
(n = 60)
Non autistic children
(n = 60) 2 p
№ % № %
Oral infection (n=60) (n=60)
Yes 20 33 15 25
1.008 0.097
No 40 67 45 75
Eruption pattern (n = 60) (n = 60)
Normal 56 93.3 54 90
1.036 MCp=0.428
Delayed eruption 0 0 3 5
Early eruption 4 6.6 3 5
Developmental dental anomalies (n = 60) (n = 60)
Yes 2 3.33 2 3.33
0.000 P = 0.381
No 58 96.7 58 96.7
Tooth fracture (n = 60) (n = 60)
Yes 12 20 16 26.7
0.745 P = 0.119
No 48 80 44 73.3
Attrition (n = 60) (n = 60)
No attrition
Enamel attrition
Attrition involving the pulp
44
16
0
73.3
26.7
0
59
1
0
98.3
1.7
0
15.4 FEp <0.001*
2: Chi square test MC: Monte Carlo test FE: Fisher Exact test
3. Elamami & Alamami/Libyan Journal of Science & Technology 14:1(2022) 5458
56
Fig. 1. Bar graph shows the proportion of attrition of both groups, there was
a statistically significant difference between autistic and non-autistic chil-
dren
Table 2 present the oral hygiene and gingival condition. Most
autistic children (93.3%) required assistance during tooth brush-
ing some or complete compared to 51.5% of non-autistic children.
The difference was statistically significant (p<0.001). Regarding
tooth brushing 90% of autistic children brushed their teeth,
whereas, all non-autistic controls reported tooth brushing. The
mean PLI in autistic children (1.40±0.56) was higher than that of
their controls (1.20±0.58). The mean GI in autistic children
(0.93±0.44) was higher than (0.78±0.37) in non-autistic children.
No statistically significant difference was found between the two
groups in the oral hygiene habits (p< 0.105), PLI (p= 0.118), and GI
(p= 0.157).
Table 2
The oral hygiene and gingival condition status in both groups
Autistic children
(n = 60)
Non autistic children
(n = 60) 2 p
No. % No. %
Tooth brushing n = 60 n = 60
Yes 94 50 58 96.7
2.143 FEp=0.105
No 6 10 2 3.3
Child required assistance with tooth brushing n = 60 n = 60
Yes 56 93.3 31 51.7
26.123 <0.001*
No 4 6.6 29 48.3
Frequency of tooth brushing n = 60 n = 60
Infrequently 11 18.3 9 15
5.065 FEp=0.016*
Once/day 27 45 31 51.7
Twice/day 22 36.7 16 26.7
After every meal 0 0.0 4 6.7
Use of tooth paste n = 60 n = 60
Yes 46 76.7 55 91.7
5.065 FEp=0.016*
No 14 23.3 5 8.3
Plaque and gingival indices Mean ± SD Mean ± SD
Plaque index (PLI) 1.40±0.56 1.20±0.58 t=1.332 0.188
Gingival index(GI) 0.93±0.44 0.78±0.37 t=1.433 0.157
2: Chi-square test MC: Monte Carlo test FE: Fisher Exact test *: Statistically significant at p≤0.05 t: t-test.
Table 3 show caries experience among autistic and non-autistic
children with primary, mixed, and permanent dentitions. As for the
primary dentition, the mean decayed, missing, and filled primary
teeth (dmft total) in autistic children was 5.50±5.95 and for non-
autistic children was 6.53±4.54, the data showed no statistically
significant difference between the two groups (p=0.847). No statis-
tically significant difference was found between the two groups re-
garding the dmf components; decayed (d), missing (m), and filled
(f) teeth (p=0.699, p=0.0.983, p=0.726 respectively). The mean to-
tal decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth (DMFT±SD) was
1.20±2.43 for autistic and 1.10±1.83 for non-autistic children. De-
spite the caries level in ASD being lower than their counterparts,
there was no statistically significant difference between the two
groups (p=0.392). No statistically significant difference was found
between the two groups regarding the DMF components; decayed
(D), missing (M), and filled (F) teeth (p=0.392, p=0.317, P=0.1.000
respectively).
4. Discussion
As the prevalence of ASD has increased in recent years, dentists
are increasingly more likely to encounter children with ASD in their
practice (Regn et al., 1999). Therefore, it is important for dental
professionals to further understand the experiences and chal-
lenges encountered by children with ASD as they access and engage
in oral care both in the home and dental office (Weil and Inglehart,
2012). As little information is available on the oral health condi-
tions of autistic children in Libya, this study was carried out to pro-
vide such valuable information.
Table 3
Comparison between the two studied groups regarding their caries expe-
rience.
Autistic children Non autistic children
Z p
N Mean±SD. N Mean±SD.
Primary teeth
d 55 5.11±5.47 60 5.33±4.16 0.387 0.699
m 55 0.81±2.0 60 0.20±0.41 0.021 0.983
f 55 0.19±0.68 60 1.0±1.91 0.351 0.726
dmft total 5.50±5.95 6.53±4.54 0.193 0.847
Permanent teeth
D 42 1.48±2.04 40 1.65±2.03 0.857 0.392
M 42 0.24±1.09 40 0.0±0.0 1.000 0.317
F 42 0.0±0.0 40 0.0±0.0 0.0 1.000
DMFT total 1.20±2.43 1.10±1.83 0.857 0.392
Z: Z for the Mann-Whitney test
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57
Most of the autistic children who participated in this study
were males, with a male to female ratio was 1.5:1. Although the ra-
tio was different from other reported ratios, it was in agreement
with the previous studies that reported a higher prevalence of ASD
among males (Zeglam and Maouna, 2012, Al-Maweri et al., 2014,
Murshid, 2005). Prevalence differences might be related to gender
variation in the expression of more evident clinical symptoms, such
as personality disorder and schizophrenia which are reported to be
more common among males with ASD, whereas dementia is com-
mon among females (Chester et al., 2013).
Considering the oral hygiene practices, it was observed that the
majority of the autistic children required some or complete assis-
tance during tooth brushing because of the compromised manual
dexterity whereas, fewer did not brush their teeth. Other clinical
features such as sensorimotor deficits, impaired executive func-
tion, attention problems, anxiety, increased sensitivity to sounds,
light and odors, difficulties in comprehension, and general lan-
guage impairment, make achieving good oral health very difficult
(Rapin and Tuchman, 2008). Murshid in 2005 (Murshid, 2005)
showed that children with ASD have generalized gingivitis which
could be related to irregular brushing habits and the difficulties en-
countered by the trainers and the parents when they brush their
children’s teeth.
Despite caries, levels in ASD being lower than their counterparts,
these differences were not significant and we can explain that by
prominent saliva drooling and less preference for fruits and sweets
by autistic children compared to non-autistic children. This finding
corresponds to results from many studies (Loo et al., 2008, Al-
Maweri et al., 2014, Murshid, 2005, DeMattei et al., 2007, Du et al.,
2015) who reported that there were no significant differences in
caries prevalence between children with ASD and healthy children
neither in primary nor in permanent dentition. Yet, other studies
(Namal et al., 2007, Du et al., 2015) reported that the prevalence of
caries in children with autism may even be comparatively lower. In
contrast, other studies reported a higher prevalence of caries (Mar-
shall et al., 2010, Jaber, 2011).
Although, there was no statistically significant difference be-
tween the two groups in the oral hygiene and gingival conditions,
the mean plaque and gingival Índices were reported to be higher in
children with ASD. The results were attributed to poor oral hygiene
measures in addition, to the fact that some children with ASD were
under medications and probably lacked manual dexterity, which
compromises their oral health. This finding is in agreement with
Murshid (Murshid, 2005) and DeMattei et al (DeMattei et al., 2007)
In contrast, other studies reported that the oral hygiene and gingi-
val conditions levels of children with ASD were significantly poorer
than healthy children (Loo et al., 2008, Marshall et al., 2010,
Yashoda and Puranik, 2014).
Compared to their control group, autistic children in the cur-
rent study showed a marked habit of bruxism that was manifested
by prominent attrition of teeth that was limited to the enamel sur-
face. This was in agreement with other studies (DeMattei et al.,
2007, Luppanapornlarp et al., 2010) which noted an increased in-
cidence of bruxism in children with ASD.
Considering the eruption pattern, developmental anomalies of
teeth, oral infection, and tooth fractures, data showed no significant
difference between autistic and non–autistic children. In this study
the percentage of tooth fractures in autistic children was 20%,
which is in agreement with the study of Klein and Nowak in 1998
(Klein and Nowak, 1998) who revealed that 20% of the partici-
pants with ASD had a history of trauma to anterior teeth.
Several limitations in our study should be taken into consider-
ation in future studies. One of the limitations of this study is the
small size of the study sample, which included attendants of the
only center of rehabilitation for autistic children in the City of Ben-
ghazi. Another limitation was the lack of comprehensive medical
records, which were not available for all subjects and was the rea-
son to focus on only one center of rehabilitation for autistic chil-
dren. One more limitation of the study was the fact that the exam-
iner was not blind to the group he was examining which might in-
troduce some bias. However, one strong point of this study was the
selection of controls that were either cousins or siblings and prob-
ably would have common dental and lifestyle characteristics,
therefore allowing a high degree of matching between groups.
Since the present sample was small, it is unlikely to provide evi-
dence-based parameters in the Libyan population. However, the
present study opens channels to explore for documentation of the
oral health conditions and quality of life among this unfortunate
group of children.
5. Conclusion
In conclusion, children with autism in Benghazi did not reveal
a higher prevalence of dental problems in comparison to their con-
trols. Although they experienced moderate levels of gingivitis and
dental plaque, their caries level was lower than their counterparts.
The habit of bruxism requires more attention and awareness onthe
parents’ part. Effective and continuous involvement in their oral
hygiene practices is also required.
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