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Karibasappa, G. N.
- Effect of Two Tongue Cleaning Methods on Oral Mutans Streptococci Level
Authors
1 Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, Bapuji Dental College and Hospital, Davangere-577004, IN
2 Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, KLES’s Institute of dental sciences, Nehru Nagar, Belgaum, IN
3 Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, S.S. Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Davangere-577005, Karnataka, IN
Source
Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, Vol 3, No 2 (2012), Pagination: 68-71Abstract
Background
Tongue scraping and brushing have been appreciated for hundreds of years but are still appreciated or used by the public. Scientific evidence has validated the need to practice habitual and tongue cleaning as part of daily home oral hygiene procedures.
Objective
To assess and compare the effect of tongue scraping and tongue brushing on oral Mutans streptococci level.
Methods
20 healthy subjects aged 14 to 15 years were randomly selected. Flat plastic tongue scraper and Nylon multitufted small headed tooth brush are the two tongue cleaning devise used. Unstimulated salivary samples were obtained at4 intervals from each individual. Salivary samples were inoculated on Mitis Salivary Agar Plate and Sorbital Broth was used for identification of Mutans streptococci group.
Results
Paired and unpaired 't' test were employed. Reduiction in the Mutans streptococci level from 48.4X104 CFU and 38.3X104 CFU at baseline in tongue scraping and tongue brushing group respectively to 0.34X104 and 0.39X104 CFU after 7th day.
Conclusion
Both tongue coating removal methods evaluated were efficient in reducing Mutans streptococci level. This implies that physical removal of the coating on the dorsum of the tongue is important and not the method used for the same.
Keywords
Tongue Scraping, Tongue Brushing, Tongue Cleaning, Mutans Streptococci
References
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- Patients' Perception towards Professionalism in Dentistry at K.L.E.S's Institute of Dental Sciences, Belgaum, India
Authors
1 Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, Bapuji Dental College and Hospital, Davangere, Karnataka, IN
Source
Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, Vol 3, No 2 (2012), Pagination: 83-87Abstract
Background
Dentist - Patient relationship is the heart of successful dentistry. Physical appearance, behavior and communication skills of professionals might influence doctor-patient relationship.
Aim
The purpose of the present study was to determine how patients perceived about professionalism in dentistry.
Study Design
Cross-sectional survey.
Methods
The study was conducted on 305 subjects who visited the Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, K.L.E.S's Institute of Dental Sciences, Belgaum, Karnataka, India. It was conducted using a self-designed standard close ended questionnaire which included provision for recording demographic characteristics and questions pertaining to the appearance and professionalism of the dentists. The data was collected, tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis using chi - square test.
Results
Attire and physical appearance of the dentists had an influence on the patients' comfort and anxiety levels, and majority of patients agreed that the first impression of dentists affected their confidence level. Hairstyle, skin complexion and facial hair (for male dentists) appeared to have little effect on patients' opinion of the various dental care providers.
Conclusion
Good human relationship between dentists and patients is essential for imparting positive attitude towards dentist and dentistry.
Keywords
Professionalism, Dentistry, Attire, BehaviorReferences
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