ALTAMASH JOURNAL OF DENTISTRY AND MEDICINE

Innovation in Dentistry: The Need for Patents in Pakistan

Prof.Dr.Naseer Ahmed — 2024-12-27

Pakistan’s contribution to dental innovation, particularly patents, is minimal despite global advancements in dentistry. This editorial examines systemic barriers, including limited intellectual property education, funding, and a focus on traditional careers, that hinder innovation. Highlighting the transformative role of patents, it proposes solutions like IP education, R&D centers, mentorship, and financial support. A collective call to action urges stakeholders to foster a culture of creativity and patenting, advancing Pakistan’s role in global dental science.

Deep Learning in Crown Design, Inquiring into the Details: A Letter on AI-Designed Crown Parameters

Tooba Shabbir — 2025-05-02

A Rare Case of Glandular Odontogenic Cyst Successfully Treated with Surgical Resection

Sidra Fahim — 2025-02-22

Abstract

A glandular odontogenic cyst (GOC) is a rare developmental cyst of the jaw with the potential for aggressive growth and recurrence. The lining epithelium has a characteristic feature of the presence of mucus cells, ciliated cells, and intraepithelial glandular structures. This case report highlights the diagnosis and management of GOC in a 43-year-old female who presented with painless left facial swelling persisting for four months. Clinical examination revealed a firm swelling in the posterior left mandible involving the mandibular angle and the entire ramus. Radiographic evaluation demonstrated a well-circumscribed unilocular radiolucency with radiopaque margins in the affected region. A diagnosis of the glandular odontogenic cyst was made following a histopathological examination. The cyst was surgically removed, and the patient showed a favorable outcome with no recurrence over a follow-up period. Glandular odontogenic cysts, though rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of jaw cysts. Surgical resection was performed which remains the treatment of choice, with careful follow-up necessary due to the risk of recurrence.

Effect of Propolis and other Commercially Available Agents in Reducing Dentine Hypersensitivity: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis

Absar Ur Rahman — 2025-02-20

Background and Objectives: Dentin hypersensitivity is a common dental condition, causing sharp pain due to exposed dentinal tubules. Traditional treatments, including nerve-blocking and tubule-occluding agents, lack consensus on the most effective method. This study compares the efficacy of propolis, a natural substance, to commercially available treatments for reducing dentin hypersensitivity.

Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted, following PRISMA guidelines, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing propolis-based products to control agents. Data were analyzed using Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, and study quality was evaluated with the Cochrane risk of bias tool. High heterogeneity was noted across studies due to variations in propolis concentrations, follow-up durations, and methodologies.

Results: Results showed no significant difference between propolis and control products (SMD 0.04, 95% CI -2.23 to 2.32). Propolis demonstrated prolonged effects, while control products provided immediate relief that diminished over time. High heterogeneity (I2= 98%) was observed.

Conclusion: In conclusion, propolis-based products may offer a natural alternative for managing dentin hypersensitivity. However, no significant difference was found compared to conventional treatments. Further high-quality studies are needed to confirm these results and assess the long-term efficacy of propolis, with an emphasis on standardizing methodologies.

Comparative Evaluation of Flexural Properties and Clinical Flexibility Between Two Types of Nickel Titanium Endodontic Files

Masooma Zehre Alizai — 2025-05-07

ABSTRACT

Objective:
To analyse the flexibility of two different generation of rotary endodontic file system by comparing second generation & fifth generation nickel-titanium rotary endodontic files at 5mm from the tip of the file in terms of mean (N/mm²).

Study design/ setting:

This research was performed in the department of Operative Dentistry, Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi & at PCSIR Laboratory, Karachi.

Methodology:

This cross sectional study was performed in the department of Operative Dentistry HUDH & at PCSIR Laboratory, Karachi. First generation rotary endodontic file selected for this purpose was Protaper, Dentsply ^TM files while fifth generation rotary endodontic file selected for this purpose was KometSky^TM. Nickel Titanium rotary Endodontic files were loaded on a load testing cell & two-point bending test was performed. The files were measured at 5mm from the tip using a digital caliper (Mitutoyo, Japan) and marked with a rubber stopper. Each file was secured between two metal plates on a load-sensing cell. A universal testing machine (Instron, 5KN model 4301, Norwood, MA) was used to bend the files to a maximum deflection of 4.5mm at a rate of 2mm/minute at room temperature (22^oC +/- 1^oC).

Results:

Fifth-generation file is more flexible (p=0.0001) compared to second generation file with test value 2.89 with 95 Confidence interval. Mean value of 3.7092 was recorded for Fifth generation rotary files & 2.846 for second generation rotary endodontic files.

Conclusion:

Mean value of the fifth generation endodontic files was highly significant i.e p=0.0001 compared to second generation endodontic files