The tooth and its supporting structures should be viewed as one biologic unit. An understanding of the periodontal-restorative relationship is necessary for the proper form, function, and esthetics of restoration and comfort to the patient. The dimension of the space that the healthy gingival tissue occupies above the alveolar crest is known as the biologic width. The concept of biologic width gains importance in the case of extensive caries management, subgingival margin placement, crown/root fractures, orthodontic banding, subgingival perforation and post, and core placement in endodontic therapy. Biologic width is important for the preservation of periodontal health which eventually decides the success of restorative procedures. This article discusses the anatomy, categories, evaluation, violation, and methods to correct the violation of biologic width.

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Calcification or ossification of elongated stylohyoid ligaments is often an incidental finding on radiographs. Abnormal elongation of the styloid process may cause compression of a number of vital nerves and vessels related to it and these symptoms may be confused with other causes of head and neck pain. The diagnosis is often difficult as a result of the vague symptomatology. This paper discusses the pain patterns, clinical presentation, radiologic findings and treatment of elongated calcified stylohyoid ligaments.

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Chemical burns on the gingiva can be caused by the use of certain pharmaceutical and nonpharmaceutical products by patients or by injudicious use of caustics by the dental clinician. These lesions in the oral cavity, however, are rarely reported. Hence, information about the product and needful instructions is necessary to be given to the patients for prevention of the same. These burns can be caused by the way of self-infliction, allergic tendency toward certain products, or it may be iatrogenic. A detailed history is the key to diagnosing and managing these cases. Chemical burns are usually treated by eliminating the etiology and managed by palliative therapy.

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Caries on the occlusal surface of dentition is a significant dental health problem. Molars and premolars are the most vulnerable teeth to caries attack. The high susceptibility of these teeth to caries is directly related to morphology of their occlusal surface. Fluoride's great success in preventing tooth decay on smooth surfaces has made dental caries largely a disease of rough irregularities. Enamel surfaces with pits and fissures receive minimal caries protection from either systemic or topical fluoride agents, the reason for ineffectiveness of fluorides in the pit and fissure caries may be related to the differences in enamel thickness and the inaccessibility of the base of pits and fissures to topical fluorides. The most efficient way to prevent pit and fissure caries is by effectively sealing the fissures using resins called pit and fissure sealants.

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Oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer for both sexes in the general population. Squamous cell carcinoma is defined as "a malignant epithelial neoplasm exhibiting squamous differentiation as characterized by the formation of keratin and/ or the presence of intercellular bridges" (Pindborg et al., 1977).^[1] It is the most common neoplasm of the oral cavity. We present a case of oral SCC emphasizing on the invasive nature of the lesion and importance of correct biosy and histopathological examination.

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Orthodontic intervention in the mixed dentition does not always prevent orthodontic treatment in the permanent dentition; however, there can be significant advantages to early intervention. Identifying certain problems at an early age offers a possibility either to redirect skeletal growth or to improve the occlusal relationship. The primary objective of managing orthodontic problems in the mixed dentition stage is to intercept or correct malocclusions that would otherwise become progressively more complex in the permanent dentition or result in skeletal anomalies. The purpose of this article is to discuss how to identify and treat such common situations and malocclusions in the mixed dentition that lend themselves to early intervention

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Dentistry was not a well recognized specialized branch of Ayurveda, literature shows it was included in its Shalakya Tantra. Before the inception and regular use of modern allopathic system, problems related to the oral cavity, plaques and infections were managed in ancient India. Traditional medicine can treat various infectious and chronic conditions. Various researchers have revealed that all kinds of chewing sticks described in ancient Ayurveda literature have medicinal and anti-cariogenic properties. Its oil pulling (Kabla Graham, Kabla Gardoosa) practice is claimed to cure about 30 systemic diseases. Use of safe, quality products and practices should be ensured based on available evidence if traditional medicine is to be acknowledged as part of primary health care. Traditional medicine is the sum total of knowledge, skills and practices based on the theories, beliefs and experiences indigenous to different cultures that are used to maintain health, as well as to prevent, diagnose, improve or treat physical and mental illnesses. Traditional medicine that has been adopted by other populations (outside its indigenous culture) is often termed complementary or alternative medicine. Herbal medicines include herbs, herbal materials, herbal preparations, and finished herbal products that contain parts of plants or other plant materials as active ingredients. Scientific validations of the Ayurveda dental health practices could justify their incorporation into modern oro dental care. Publicity of these techniques using appropriate media would benefit the general population by giving more confidence in the ancient practices, thus preventing various oro dental problems

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Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-fungal activity of Aloe vera extract on Candida albicans. Materials and Methods: Extract from A. vera fruit was tested for anti-fungal activity via in vitro study at various concentrations using the disc diffusion method. Results: A. vera extract at 1000 μg/ml concentration effectively inhibited the growth of C. albicans (14 mm) compared with the positive control-amphotericin B (15 mm). It was found to be a dose-dependent reaction. Conclusion: A. vera displayed good anti-fungal effect on C. albicans and the inhibitory effect varied with concentration.

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Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a light source treatment that generates light of a single wavelength. The low-level lasers do not cause temperature elevation within the tissue, but rather produce their effects from photobiostimulation effect within the tissues. Low-level lasers do not cut or ablate the tissue. The therapy performed with low-level lasers ia called as LLLT. LLLT devices include the gallium arsenide, gallium aluminum arsenide infrared semiconductor (gallium-aluminum-arsenide), and helium-neon lasers. The output powers range from 50 to 500 mW with wavelengths in the red and near infrared of the electromagnetic spectrum, from 630 to 980 nm with pulsed or continuous-wave emission. The application of LLLT has become popular in a variety of clinical applications in periodontics including promotion of wound healing and reduction of pain following nonsurgical and surgical procedures.

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Arranging the teeth for complete denture involves specific laid out principles, which are instructed in dental schools. A dentist who graduates from a dental school is expected to be sufficiently trained in the theory and the practice of teeth setting. Whether it is a conventional removable or implant retained complete denture, the principles of teeth setting remain the same. The possible effect is that all dentists may give almost identical complete dentures to their patients. The complete denture patients may be satisfied with what the dentists provides. It is the duty of the dentist to inform the patient that his or her complete dentures can be characterized to suit his/her wish and appearance better. Incorporation of correct tooth size, shade and position has a visual impact on patient's appearance. This will bring out proper harmony and balance between a persons smile and facial design. Meeting patients' expectations by giving importance to their demands is the most important criteria for success. Even though the importance should be given to the patient's choice an operator can take the liberty to arrange the teeth in an esthetic and acceptable form. This will have a positive effect on patient's self-esteem. Each complete denture patient should be evaluated individually, and the dentist should strive to make the complete denture unique to that person. The authors present 11 case reports of complete denture characterizations. Denture characterization provides infinite possibilities for the dentist.

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Over the past two decades, there is an increasing number of congenital defects affecting enamel mineralisation referred to as "molar incisor hypomineralisation" (MIH). This defect usually involves one to four permanent first molars and permanent incisors. Clinically, the defect presents as opaque lesions varying in colour from white to yellow or brown, with a sharp demarcation between the affected and sound enamel to posteruptive enamel breakdown. The destruction of enamel is so rapid and clinically, it presents as if the enamel has not formed at all. It has been postulated that MIH is a consequence of a variety of environmental factors acting systemically, which disturb the ameloblasts during amelogenesis. However, the possibility of a genetic component in the development of MIH cannot be excluded. Management of MIH always pose a big problem to the clinicians, as well as for the child due to severe sensitivity caused by the defective enamel.

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Dental plaque is a biofilm which is the prime etiological factor in the causation of oral diseases such as dental caries and periodontal disease. The various hypothesis has been developed explaining the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. Although a classical model to support this polymicrobial disease is yet to be proposed, all the stated hypothesis gives us a better idea in understanding the pathophysiology of the periodontal disease process.

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The success of endodontic treatment and restoration of teeth predominantly depend on disinfection or aseptic environment of the affected tissue. Some bacterial flora may also remain in spite of the conventional process of cleaning and irrigation, which may later cause reinfection and failure of treatment. The article reviews the usefulness of lesion sterilization and tissue repair procedure in pediatric dentistry, its indications, contraindications, advantages, disadvantages, clinical procedure, and related studies.

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Management of the patient with congenital or acquired defect of palate, resulting in communication between oral cavity and nose and/or maxillary sinus, presents challenge to the clinician. The prosthodontic management involves use of obturator prosthesis. This article discusses various aspects of the obturator prosthesis.

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Impaction of the maxillary canine is a frequently encountered problem in orthodontic practice. Maxillary canines are the most commonly impacted teeth next to the third molars. Alignment of an impacted canine requires a combined surgical and orthodontic approach. Maxillary canines present a high esthetic and functional demand, hence, a precise diagnosis and treatment planning with soft tissue considerations is essential for a favorable and stable outcome. An overview of the etiology, incidence, and diagnosis of the factors affecting the management of impacted maxillary canines, the soft tissue consideration, and various surgical and orthodontic techniques have been discussed.

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Midline diastema is a common aesthetic problem in mixed and permanent dentition. Many innovative therapies are varying from restorative procedures such as composite build-up to surgery (frenectomy) and orthodontics are available. A high frenum attachment is often the cause of persistent diastemas. Presented herewith is a case report of a 13-year-old girl with a high frenal attachment that had caused spacing of the maxillary central incisors. This case report demonstrates the removal of the abnormal labial frenum attachment through surgery and subsequent closure of maxillary diastema following removable orthodontic treatment.

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Space infection in the Oral and Maxillofacial region is common from odontogenic origin especially in the immunocompromised patients. Ludwig's angina which is relatively uncommon remains a potentially life-threatening condition due to the risk of impending airway obstruction. Thus, because of its invasive nature, early identification and management of Ludwig's angina is extremely important.

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Sensitive and reliable early diagnostic markers for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remain unavailable. Early identification of recurrence for OSCC is also a challenge. This article reviews the recently identified biomarkers for OSCC such as cytokeratins, p53, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), etc., which are of great utility in early diagnosis. In addition, the biomarkers that have been correlated with OSCC tumor malignancy by molecular pathology analysis are also described. This article speaks about selected reaction monitoring (SRM) which might even be applied to monitor differential expression of tumor proteins in blood, saliva, or fresh frozen tissue materials. SRM technique may complement or possibly replace western blotting for biomarker verification and for selection of potential biomarker candidates. This article may help to identify the potential biomarkers for screening and the molecular pathology analysis for high-risk patients of OSCC. Effective screening to identify high-risk patients will allow clinicians to provide an early and appropriate treatment to patients without delay and also reduce the risk of recurrence of OSCC.

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While providing the oral healthcare services, a dentist has to follow certain set of standards to avoid any litigation in the name of malpractice. Consent is a fundamental and established principle in the Indian Law. Not taking consent is considered as deficiency in medical services. Medical records are documentary evidence as per the Indian Evidence Act, 1872. A dental professional is bound by law and ethics while providing treatment to his patients. Disclosure of complete information that is necessary to the patient regarding the treatment is essential to avoid any clauses of negligence against the doctor, even if there is no contract between the doctor and patient. Healthcare malpractice can be challenged under two main categories in the court of law, that is, civil and criminal depending on the nature of offence. A third category lies under consumer protection act, 1986, where professional services provided by the dentist can be challenged. Professional indemnity insurance also known as 'Defense Costs' will pay all the costs, fees, and expenses incurred with their prior consent in the investigation, defense, or settlement of any claim made against the insured.While providing the oral healthcare services, a dentist has to follow certain set of standards to avoid any litigation in the name of malpractice. Consent is a fundamental and established principle in the Indian Law. Not taking consent is considered as deficiency in medical services. Medical records are documentary evidence as per the Indian Evidence Act, 1872. A dental professional is bound by law and ethics while providing treatment to his patients. Disclosure of complete information that is necessary to the patient regarding the treatment is essential to avoid any clauses of negligence against the doctor, even if there is no contract between the doctor and patient. Healthcare malpractice can be challenged under two main categories in the court of law, that is, civil and criminal depending on the nature of offence. A third category lies under consumer protection act, 1986, where professional services provided by the dentist can be challenged. Professional indemnity insurance also known as 'Defense Costs' will pay all the costs, fees, and expenses incurred with their prior consent in the investigation, defense, or settlement of any claim made against the insured.

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Aloe vera is a versatile plant with a numerous health benefits. It has various outstanding features like anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-tumor which help in accelerating wound healing and in treating various lesions of the oral cavity. Although it has clinically proven benefits, its practical use in repairing oral lesions still warrants further research. The A. vera plant, its properties, mechanism of action and clinical uses in dentistry are briefly reviewed in the current article.

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The relationship between dental morphological traits and ancestry has received the utmost amount of attention from dental anthropologists and forensic odontologists. Caucasoid, Mongoloids, and Negroid are the chief racial groups of the world. The dentition of each race has been reported to be unique to its race and has been employed to determine ancestry. Unfortunately, over the years, the concept of race has been fading away due to hybridization between races worldwide. Hence, one cannot solely rely on dental morphological traits to assign a race to an unknown. Nevertheless, even though dental morphological traits have been blended among the three races, there are still those traits that are dominant in one or the other ethnic group.

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Human identification in homicides and mass disasters has been largely possible with skeletal remains, especially teeth, when soft tissue cannot provide reliable information or has been lost. From the point of forensic dental identification especially in identifying victims of man-made disasters such as in military conflicts and wars involving multiple fatalities, there is urgent need for new and reliable methods of identification and corroboration. Various methods currently employed in forensic odontology for personal identification include comparing with ante mortem dental charts, rugoscopy, denture labelling, DNA analysis from dental pulp, bite mark analysis, etc. Recently there is growing interest in the study of enamel rod end patterns. These enamel rod end patterns are termed as tooth prints and the study of these prints is known as Ameloglyphics (amelo: Enamel, glyphics: Carvings). The tooth prints are unique, exhibiting dissimilarity both between teeth of different individuals and of the same individual. This uniqueness of the tooth print could be used as a valuable tool in forensic science for personal identification. This review highlights about the basis of using enamel rod end patterns, methods of obtaining the patterns, and delineating its sub-patterns.

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Tuberculous lymphadenitis occurring in the cervical region is the most common cause of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Isolated form of tuberculous cervical lymphadenitis is rare and is described in patients without evidence of previous or ongoing TB anywhere in the body. This type yields inconsistent physical and laboratory findings, and final diagnosis requires biopsy. In this article, we report a case of tuberculous cervical lymphadenitis in a 24-year-old female patient with no evidence of TB elsewhere and diagnosis was based on histopathology.

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Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the soft-tissue parameter that is depth and angle of mentolabial sulcus and to correlate this parameter with type of malocclusion present in an ethnic Tamilian population. Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the depth and angle of the mentolabial sulcus, to determine the type of malocclusion, and to correlate the soft-tissue parameter and malocclusion. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in 260 university students (65 males and 95 females) between April and September 2018. Photographs of all the students were taken using a digital camera. Mentolabial sulcus depth and angles were measured from the lateral photographs using an angle instrument along with the molar and canine relation. The type of mentolabial sulcus was also taken into account. The data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 22. The comparison of sulcus between males and females was performed using two-sample t-test at 95% confidence interval. Results: The mean mentolabial sulcus angle in the Tamilian population was 117.18° ± 9.24° (males: 118.19° ± 12.28° and females: 116.19° ± 12.28°). There was no statistically significant difference of sulcus angle between males and females (P = 0.078). The sulcus was classified as deep, average, and shallow in males and females. In total students, the average was more predominant followed by deep and shallow. Conclusion: The mean mentolabial sulcus angle in the Tamilian population was 117.18° ± 9.24°, in males was 118.19° ± 12.28°, and in females was 116.19° ± 12.28°. The sulcus was classified as deep, average, and shallow. There was no statistically significant difference of sulcus angle between males and females. The average type of sulcus was more predominant in the Tamilian population.

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Nanotechnology is rapidly developing subdivision of technology that effects on many fields. Medicine is also influenced by nanotechnology. Nanotechnology modified methods can be used in cancer treatment. Nanotechnology can assist to have better diagnosis with less harmful substance. The use of optical nanoparticles provides efficient drug delivery to tumor cells with liposomes and functionalized micelles. Nanotechnology can be also used in molecular imaging with tomography and photoacoustic imaging of tumors and therapy of cancer as photothermal and radiotherapy. Nanotechnology a next generation techniques have many advantages to treat cancer patients from diagnosis to treatment.

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