Ankita Tapkir

Purpose Paediatric dental anxiety remains a significant challenge in clinical practice, often impacting co-operation and treatment outcomes. This randomised controlled trial compares the anxiety-reducing effects of AI-based self-modelling versus standard video modelling. Methods A single-blind, parallel-arm randomised controlled trial was conducted on 80 children aged 6–12 years requiring restorative dental treatment. Participants were randomised into two groups. Dental fear and anxiety were assessed using CFSS-DS and MCDASf, along with pulse and heart rate monitoring. Data were collected pre- and post-intervention by a blinded assessor and statistically analysed. Results Both groups showed significant within-group reductions in dental fear and anxiety (p < 0.001); however, no statistically significant between-group difference was observed for the primary outcome (CFSS-DS). The AI-based personalised video self-modelling app group demonstrated a greater reduction in heart rate (7.65 vs. 2.18 bpm), with a significant between-group difference (p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 0.89), indicating reduced short-term physiological arousal rather than overall superiority of the intervention and specific anxiety parameters, particularly related to injections and dental examinations. Intergroup analysis revealed a large effect size for heart rate (Cohen’s d = 0.89) and moderate-to-large effects for selected anxiety items with some item-level differences observed. However, overall CFSS-DS score differences between groups were not statistically significant. Conclusion Both interventions were effective in reducing dental fear and anxiety. However, no superiority was demonstrated for the primary psychological outcome. The AI-based personalised intervention showed greater reduction in physiological arousal (heart rate), suggesting potential benefits in short-term anxiety modulation.

INTRODUCTION. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are of interest in regenerative endodontics due to their multipotency. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is highly sought after due to its biocompatibility, but the limitations of long setting time and poor handling have created interest in newer products such as Baghdadite. To evaluate the biocompatibility and osteogenic potential of Baghdadite, MTA, and their combination on DPSCs using MTT and Alizarin Red assay. MATERIALS AND METHODS. DPSCs were cultured and characterized by flow cytometry and CFU assays. Experimental groups (MTA, Baghdadite, MTA+Baghdadite) were exposed to cytotoxicity test (MTT assay) and mineralization test (Alizarin Red staining). RESULTS. Cell viability of all the groups was higher than control. Combination group showed maximum viability (mean OD: 0.4066) than Baghdadite (0.3975) and MTA (0.3563). Alizarin Red staining showed the maximum mineralization in combination group (mean OD: 1.7069) than MTA (0.5788) and Baghdadite (0.4020). CONCLUSIONS. The association of MTA and Baghdadite showed improved biocompatibility and osteogenic ability, which is promising for application as a pulp-capping agent in regenerative endodontics.

Amidst the rapid proliferation of mHealth applications, questions persist regarding their efficacy, usability, and integration into oral health practice. This review aims to inform practitioners and stakeholders in the field of oral health about the potential of digital technologies to transform healthcare delivery and promote healthy behaviors. Key terms included “dental”, “dentistry”, “oral health”, “dental treatment”, and “tooth care”. The Google Play Store search identified 130 applications, out of which 18 met our study objectives. Most apps (n = 13) focused on providing dental appointments, oral health education, and promotion. The Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) quality rating revealed that only 50% of these apps were of high quality. Engagement and information were the lowest scored subscales. This review highlights the many benefits that these digital tools provide, including online appointments, teleconsultations, and access to oral health educational resources. Nevertheless, despite their potential, the current state of dental health applications left substantial room for development, especially in the areas of user involvement and information quality. The lack of reliable and accurate information in many apps may be harmful to users’ health. To fully realize the potential of these digital technologies and to enhance oral health outcomes on a larger scale, coordinated actions involving stakeholders from the technology and dentistry sectors are imperative.