Factors associated with the technical quality of root canal fillings performed by undergraduate dental students in a Malaysian Dental School

Aim: A retrospective clinical audit was carried out on records of endodontic treatment performed by dental undergraduates. The audit was performed to evaluate the technical quality of root canal fillings performed by dental undergraduates and determine the associated factors. Methods: 140 records of patients who had received root canal treatment by dental undergraduates were evaluated through periapical radiographs by two examiners (κ =0.74). The root canal fillings had their quality evaluated according to extent, condensation and presence of procedural mishap. Possible factors associated with technical quality such as tooth type, canal curvature, student level and quality of record keeping were evaluated. Data were statistically analyzed using chi-square test (p<0.05). Results: Among the 140 root-filled teeth, acceptable extent, condensation and no-mishap were observed in 72.1%, 66.4% and 77.9% cases respectively. Overall, the technical quality of 68 (48.6%) root-filled teeth was considered acceptable. Overall, non-acceptable root canal fillings were significantly more likely to be observed in molars (69.2%), moderately and severely curved canals (71.4%) and junior students (61.5%). There was no association between acceptable root canal fillings and quality of record keeping. Conclusions: The technical quality of root canal fillings was acceptable in 48.6% cases and it was associated with tooth type, degree of canal curvature and student seniority.

Prevalence, severity and risk factors of allergic disorders among people in south India.

Background: Allergic disorders are not usually life-threatening conditions but they impair the person’s ability to function. It thus adversely affects the psychological wellbeing and quality of life. These implications of allergic disorders can be minimized if strategies are planned for its early identification followed by appropriate interventions. Objectives: To find out the prevalence and risk factors of allergic disorders. Methods: Data was collected by house to house survey among participants aged 18 years and above using a standardized allergy assessment questionnaire. Results: Mean age of the 400 participants was 42.8±14.7 years. Majority 105(26.2%) were in the age group 36 to 45 years. Majority were females 287(71.7%) and were house wives 217(54.2%). Majority of participants were of upper socio economic class 98(44.7%) out of 219 and majority were from urban areas 326(81.5%). The prevalence of allergy among participants was found to be 115(28.7%). Out of these 115, 37(32.2%) had possibility of allergy, 60(52.2%) had probability of allergy and the rest 18(15.6%) had very high likelihood for allergy. People residing in semi urban areas had increased risk of allergy (p=0.024) than those from urban areas. The prevalence of asthma was 30(7.5%) and skin allergy was 23(5.8%). Most common precipitating factors for allergy were dust exposure 103(25.8%) followed by seasonal changes 71(17.8%). Family history of allergy was associated with allergy among participants (p<0.001). Usage of firewood was associated with symptoms of respiratory allergy among participants (p=0.01). Conclusion: The study revealed some important determinants of allergic disorders which have important implications to frame appropriate prevention and health educational strategies.