OAR@UM Community:

Periodontal status in long‐term care: a comparative study in older adults with & without dementia at St. Vincent De Paul residence

2025-06-18T11:04:55Z

Title: Periodontal status in long‐term care: a comparative study in older adults with & without dementia at St. Vincent De Paul residence Abstract: In literature, health is often contrasted with disease, yet its definition varies by context, ranging from physical and social to economic well‐being. In dentistry, periodontal health specifically refers to the clinical state of periodontal structures (Mariotti & Hefti, 2015). Traditionally, periodontal health is understood as the absence of inflammation, shallow probing depths, and no gingival bleeding. However, definitions vary, incorporating indicators such as probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BOP). Research highlights the relevance of periodontal status in cognitive decline. Nascimento et al. (2019) link periodontal inflammation to neuroinflammation. Lauritano et al. (2019) found no major differences in oral health between older adults with and without dementia, though the authors noted higher gingival bleeding in those with dementia. This study aims to compare the periodontal health of older adults with and without dementia in long‐term care, identifying clinical trends and cognitive‐related risk factors over time.

The effectiveness of podcasts in enhancing students’ foundational knowledge compared to traditional reading materials

2025-06-18T11:36:09Z

Title: The effectiveness of podcasts in enhancing students’ foundational knowledge compared to traditional reading materials Abstract: Although students are commonly provided with reading materials to prepare for class, many do not engage with them effectively. This lack of preparation may impede their comprehension of course content and limit active participation in class discussions and activities. Alternative content delivery formats, such as podcasts, may present a more engaging and accessible approach, potentially enhancing the retention and understanding of foundational knowledge. This study investigates the comparative effectiveness of podcasts versus traditional reading materials in improving students' foundational knowledge on a given topic. Description: All authors contributed equally

Attitudes and perceptions of health professionals on oral health and quality of life in a long-term care facility for older adults

2025-06-18T09:55:39Z

Title: Attitudes and perceptions of health professionals on oral health and quality of life in a long-term care facility for older adults Abstract: Encouraging better oral hygiene practices is crucial for preventing periodontal disease. The foundation of periodontal care particularly focuses on maintaining personal oral hygiene to remove supra and subgingival plaque, a key factor in preventing periodontal disease. Mechanical removal, through practices like brushing and flossing, significantly influences periodontal tissue stability. Effective oral hygiene relies on motivated individuals with proper skills and access to cleaning devices and instructions (Mariotti & Hefti, 2015). Encouraging better oral hygiene practices is crucial for preventing periodontal disease and caries. Understanding factors motivating these practices, such as age and gender, aids behaviour change initiatives (Raison et al., 2020). Periodontal treatment success depends on individuals' commitment to maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Prevention strategies involve patient-performed biofilm control and professional plaque removal, effectively reducing inflammation and periodontitis prevalence (Newton & Asimakopoulou, 2017). Specialized oral health aids and simplified instructions are vital for geriatric individuals, especially those with cognitive impairments. Therefore, educating health professionals and caregivers and customizing oral maintenance appointments, further optimize oral health care in long term care facilities. Effective prevention and tailored care are essential for preserving oral well-being across all ages (Grusovin, 2019). The objective of this study is to evaluate the perspectives regarding daily oral care and the quality of life among health professionals working at St. Vincent de Paul, a long-term care facility for older adults.

The effectiveness of tooth whitening products in the Maltese market : a clinical study

2023-06-06T06:24:57Z

Title: The effectiveness of tooth whitening products in the Maltese market : a clinical study Authors: Alzoubi, Emad Eddin; Elgaroushi, Fares; McBerry, Ikechi; Gatt, Gabriella; Attard, Nikolai J. Abstract: Background: Tooth whitening has gained popularity in recent years, with many products emerging on the market.; Aim: To assess the effectiveness of different tooth whitening products, highlight any undesirable effects of whitening on the oral soft tissues, and evaluate if tooth whitening can serve as a motivational tool for patients to improve their oral hygiene.; Method: 127 participants were invited to join the study and 77 were enrolled in the study according to the selection criteria. They were randomly divided into 8 groups, each group receiving a different tooth-bleaching product. Data collection was performed at 4 different time-points.; Results: 39% of participants were excluded due to suboptimal oral health, thus emphasizing the need for a routine check-up before treatment. Only professional tooth whitening provided by dental professionals showed significant tooth shade improvements (Kruskal–Wallis tests p < 0.05). Tooth whitening had no significant impact on oral soft tissues (Kruskal–Wallis test p > 0.05). Tooth whitening can serve as a motivating tool to improve patients’ oral health.; Conclusions: Tooth whitening procedures should be carried out by dental professionals. Only non-over the counter (OTC) products showed significant colorimetric shade improvement. Whitening treatment had no significant impact on oral soft tissues. The achieved tooth whitening directly improved oral health.