Shahida Mohd-Said

Oral diseases remain a public health burden, while the integration of dental care into Universal Health Coverage (UHC) varies across countries. Evidence on dental health insurance systems in the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region (WPR) remains heterogeneous. This scoping review mapped and synthesised evidence on dental health insurance systems and related UHC dimensions across 6 WPR countries. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, using searches of electronic databases, WHO and government websites, and reference lists for evidence published from 2000 to 2025. Of 1245 database records identified, 29 sources met the inclusion criteria. Substantial variation was observed in insurance architecture, dental benefit scope, financing, access, workforce distribution, equity, and financial protection. Preventive services were commonly represented, whereas restorative and complex services varied considerably. Formal insurance enrolment did not necessarily correspond to comparable levels of effective dental service access or financial protection. The 6 countries accounted for substantial proportions of the global 2023 burden of oral diseases. Dental health insurance arrangements are diverse across WPR countries. Advancing Universal Oral Health Coverage (UOHC) requires consideration of population coverage alongside service coverage, accessibility, equity, and financial protection, while oral disease burden should be interpreted as epidemiological context rather than as an outcome attributable to insurance arrangements.

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that destroys the periodontal ligament, leading to alveolar bone loss and ultimately tooth loss. The Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway is an important molecular signalling pathway that controls the expression of bone remodelling-related genes. Manipulating this pathway is a recurring theme in recent studies, suggesting a viable therapeutic target. A scoping review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines to identify the latest molecular regulators used in manipulating the signalling pathway between 2007 and 2025 from databases such as Web of Science, Ovid Medline, and Scopus. Only primary articles relevant to the signalling pathway, periodontitis, and bone homeostasis were selected. A total of 22 articles were identified, using various molecules ranging from plant extracts such as field horsetail to pre-existing drugs. The molecules function by altering the activities of targets within the signalling pathway such as β-catenin and GSK-3β phosphorylation, ultimately increasing osteoblast differentiation for bone growth that was reduced in periodontitis cases. The Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway is a favoured target for potential therapeutic interventions for periodontitis. However, most studies are limited to in vitro methods and requires further description on the relationships between periodontitis and the signalling pathway.

Resin-bonded bridges (RBB) and conventional fixed partial dentures (CFPD) are commonly used fixed prosthetic options for single-tooth replacement. While their clinical performance has been widely reported, comparative evidence on patient-reported oral health–related quality of life (OHRQoL) remains limited. This cross-sectional study assessed OHRQoL among patients who received either an RBB or a CFPD for single-tooth replacement at a public dental school polyclinic in Kuala Lumpur. Demographic characteristics and prosthesis-related information were collected. OHRQoL was evaluated using the validated Malaysian version of the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14), scored on a five-point Likert scale. Overall, OHRQoL was assessed using the additive (ADD) score, and the Simple Count (SC) method was used to identify the number of items with reported impact. Group comparisons were performed using non-parametric statistical tests. A total of 66 patients were included (33 RBB and 33 CFPD). The mean total OHIP-14 score was 11.97 ± 10.29 in the RBB group and 9.76 ± 6.52 in the CFPD group, with no statistically significant difference between groups (p = 0.563). The mean SC score was 3.79 ± 3.34 for RBB and 2.97 ± 2.30 for CFPD, also showing no significant difference (p = 0.456). Overall, both groups demonstrated very low OHRQoL impact. Patients restored with resin-bonded bridges or conventional fixed partial dentures reported similarly low oral health–related quality of life impact following single-tooth replacement. Within the limitations of this cross-sectional study, no meaningful difference in patient-reported outcomes was observed between the two prosthetic designs.

Computer-assisted implant surgery (CAIS) using 3D-printed surgical templates has become a preferred approach for improving implant placement accuracy. Despite its clinical advantages over conventional freehand techniques, CAIS remains limited by the presence of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) metal artefacts, which compromise the 3D data alignment during implant planning and guide fabrication. This narrative review aims to explore the impact of metal artefacts on the accuracy of 3D-printed surgical implant templates and to evaluate current approaches and modifications in implant planning workflows. This article reviews accuracy studies, case reports and technology research on CAIS from the past 5 years. It summarised the CAIS clinical decision framework and data alignment methods to provide alternatives for guided implant therapy in the future. Studies indicate that metal artefacts can distort anatomical data, leading to potential misalignment in 3D data superimposition during surgical guide designs and fabrication. However, various strategies have shown promise in reducing these distortions. Accurate implant planning and template fabrication are essential to ensure clinical success. Special consideration should be given to artefact management during data acquisition. Modified workflows that account for the presence of metal artefacts can enhance guide precision and improve patient outcomes.

Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is a relatively rare mesenchymal neoplasm characterized by spindle cells exhibiting fibroblastic differentiation. The neoplasm was initially identified in the pleura but had later been recognized in various human anatomical areas. In addition, it typically features disorganized spindle cells, varying cell density, collagen-rich stroma, and slender branching blood vessels. Several studies have shown that myxoid SFT with a significant myxoid stroma is exceedingly rare, with less than 15 cases reported. Approximately 20% of SFT often occurs in the head and neck, including the meninges. The extracranial head and neck area have been reported to be the most common areas, particularly the sinonasal tract, oral cavity, and deep soft tissues, such as the orbit. Therefore, this narrative review aims to describe the distinctive features of SFT to assist clinicians in identifying their rarity.

Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans interact in dental plaque biofilm to form a synergistic caries process. As a result, preventing tooth cavities necessitates disrupting the interaction between these two bacteria. This can be accomplished by giving anti-biofilm substances such as goat's milk, which contains lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, and lysozyme. Candida albicans in dental biofilms promotes more violent caries than biofilms generated only by Streptococcus mutants. This study aimed to analyze the antibiofilm of goat's milk against Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans biofilm masses quantitatively and qualitatively. Methods: The type of study used was an experimental laboratory with a Post-Test Control Group Design. The study was conducted utilizing the Biofilm Coverage Rate (BCR) and the Biofilm Assay to asses characteristics of the quantitative concentration of biofilm and the SDS-PAGE technique to observe the biofilm protein composition qualitatively. Results: The treatment group's BCR and Biofilm Assay concentrations were 0.45 ± 0.2 lower than the negative control group's 0.78 ± 0.25. Protein profile bands of S. mutans and C. albicans biofilms exposed to goat's milk ranged from 14.4 to 116 kDa. Conclusion: Goat milk exhibits anti-biofilm action against Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans biofilms.

Diabetes and periodontitis are both highly prevalent diseases in Malaysia, with a strong bidirectional relationship. Therefore, encouraging shared care management is essential to ensure patients benefit from controlling both conditions. Our study aimed to investigate general dental practitioners' perceptions and current practices regarding the shared care management of periodontitis and diabetes using a questionnaire. We developed an evidence-based questionnaire through a systematic literature search and pre-tested it on 30 dental practitioners in a public university. Three databases (Scopus, Web of Science, and Ovid MEDLINE), were used to access the available literature. All eligible articles were screened for duplicates and relevance, selecting those with questionnaires. The most relevant questions were chosen and organised thematically. The final section of the questionnaire included a validation sheet, where clinicians reviewed the questions and suggested potential improvements. Seven key aspects were assessed: clarity and directions of items, presentation and organisation of items, suitability of items, adequacy of the content, attainment of purpose/objective, and scale and evaluation rating. All aspects were deemed 'satisfactory' by the clinicians. The clinicians recommended the questionnaire, offering a few suggestions for improvement. More than 95% of the clinicians evaluated the questionnaire as satisfactory, concluding it was valid. Suggested improvements were implemented, such as bolding or italicising the instructions, changing the selection format of questions, and adjusting the direction of options for two questions. A final questionnaire was developed for future research on dental practitioners' knowledge and perceptions regarding the bidirectional relationship and management of diabetes and periodontitis.

Background/Objectives: Opportunistic diabetes screening in dental clinics is an innovative strategy with significant public health implications. Methods: This prospective observational study assessed diabetes risk and referral compliance among periodontitis patients using the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) and capillary fasting blood glucose (cFBG). Patients with FINDRISC ≥ 11 and/or cFBG ≥ 5.6 mmol/L were classified as high-risk and referred for further medical evaluation, with compliance tracked through medical practitioner feedback. Results: A total of 142 participants were recruited by 20 general dental practitioners (GDPs). Of these, 36.4% (n = 47) had a FINDRISC ≥ 11, with a mean score of 7.7 ± 4.5, and 26.3% (n = 34/129) had cFBG levels ≥ 5.6 mmol/L. There was no significant difference between periodontal status and FINDRISC (p = 0.291) or between periodontal status and cFBG (p = 0.129). Overall, 54 patients (41.8%) were referred for follow-up, with 33 (61.1%) completing the process. Among those who completed referrals, 10 (30.3%) were diagnosed with prediabetes and seven (21.2%) with diabetes. Non-compliance was more common among patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Conclusions: This study shows the feasibility of integrating diabetes risk screening into private dental practice and its potential to identify high-risk individuals. Shared care models and policy adaptations are essential to improve interdisciplinary collaboration and overcome referral compliance barriers.

Background: Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting mucous membranes and skin, with potential life‐threatening risks. It is typically characterized by blisters within the oral cavity with or without subsequent skin involvement. Given the importance of timely intervention, dental professionals are responsible for diagnosing this condition, as prompt detection and intervention greatly influence the disease progression and prognosis. Case Description: A 44‐year‐old male patient presented with swollen and bleeding gums, accompanied by multiple chronic ulcers in the oral cavity. He was initially diagnosed with PV in 2018; his case posed significant challenges, including drug‐influenced gingival enlargement and the psychological burden of managing a chronic, relapsing condition. Management and Prognosis: The patient received treatment with an immunosuppressive medication (cyclosporin) along with long‐term systemic steroids (prednisolone). In November 2022, cyclosporin was replaced with a steroid‐sparing medication (methotrexate) to control drug‐influenced gingival enlargement. The periodontal condition improved after 3 months of changing the medication regimen, nonsurgical periodontal therapy, and reinforced oral hygiene practices. The patient undergoes regular medical evaluations every 6 months with the dermatology department. Clinical Implications: Effective management of PV necessitates long‐term systemic steroid therapy, often supplemented with immunosuppressive agents, to control the disease and minimize relapse risks. Regular clinical assessments are essential for patients receiving steroid and immunosuppressive treatment to monitor potential side effects, including cyclosporin‐induced gingival enlargement. If gingival enlargement is compounded by periodontal disease, it can further complicate the management of PV. Drug‐induced gingival enlargement has a favorable prognosis and is reversible upon discontinuation or substitution of the causative medication. An interdisciplinary approach involving primary clinicians, dentists, and the healthcare team is crucial to addressing the patient’s signs and symptoms effectively.

Background: Demineralization of dentin is a condition of dissolving minerals in peritubular dentin due to exposure to acids that release hydroxyapatite ions. To prevent dentin demineralization, a therapeutic agent that can inhibit the dissolution ability of hydroxyapatite ions is needed. One therapeutic agent that can be used is the Mauli banana (MB) stem gel. Purpose: To observe the characteristics of dentin demineralization after the use of MB stem extract gel. Method: Mandibular incisor bovine teeth were demineralized with lactic acid pH 4.5 for 72 hours and then treated with 25%; 37.5%; 50%; and 62.5% MB gel and Chlorhexidine 2% for one minute. All samples were soaked in artificial saliva with 1 mg/ml saliva of collagenase enzyme for 24 hours. The characteristic of dentin demineralization was observed by using scanning electron microscope/electron dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). Results: The SEM image in the control, Chlorhexidine, 25%; 37.5%; 50%; and 62.5% MB gel groups showed dentinal tubules of about 3.67–4.94 µm; 3.55–4 µm; 4.18–5.6 µm; 2.28–2.86 µm; 3.29–3.81 µm; and 2.42–3.17 µm in size. The EDX test found carbon (C), nitrogen (N), oxygen (O), sodium (Na), phosphorous (P), chlorine (Cl), and calcium (Ca) in all groups. The one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test results showed significant differences in the levels of C, N, O, Cl, and Ca between all groups, while the Na showed no significant differences. Conclusion: The MB can inhibit the demineralization of bovine dentin based on the decrease in the size of the dentinal tubules and increasing the C, O, P, and Ca.