Nigerian Journal of Dental Research

The Effectiveness of Buffered and Non-buffered Local Anaesthetics in Maxillary Infiltration during Root Canal Treatment: A Randomised Study

2026-08-10T23:51:25+00:00

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of buffered and non-buffered local anaesthetics in maxillary infiltration during root canal treatment (RCT).

Methods: This was a randomised double-blinded controlled study conducted over fifteen months (January 2024 to March 2025). Ethical approval was obtained from the research and ethics committee of the institution. Included were patients aged 18 years and above who presented for RCT of maxillary molars. A simple random sampling method was used to administer buffered and non-buffered LA to subjects in groups A and B, respectively. Information recorded includes: demographics, indication for the RCT, pain at the injection site, time for the onset, and comfort during the RCT. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25.

Results: There were 39 (48.7%) males, 41(51.3%) females in the age range of 19-69 years with a mean±SD of 38.34±13.44. Most of the subjects were in the category of 31- 60 years with no statistical significant difference (?2=1.064, p=0.587). Comparison of pain at the buccal and palatal injection sites showed that group A had a lower mean pain score on injection than group B, which was statistically significant. The mean onset time for group A was lower than that of group B, with a statistical significant difference. Group A subjects reported more comfortable procedure 3.18(±1.66) compared to group B 4.48(±1.60) with a statistically significant difference t=-3.562, p=0.0001.

Conclusion: Buffered LA was found to have a lower pain mean score, shorter onset time, and provide more comfort during root canal therapy than the non-buffered LA.

Keywords: Root canal therapy, Buffering, Local anaesthesia, Pain

Prehospital Self-treating of Orofacial Swelling: Observed Clinical Presentation of Patients

2026-08-11T00:06:55+00:00

Objective: To assess the type of self-pretreatment instituted among patients with orofacial swelling before presentation.

Methods: An observational study; population included all facial swellings that received self-intervention by patients before hospital visit to the Oral and Maxillofacial unit of Edo Specialist hospital. There were no exclusions.

Results: 131 patients met inclusion criterion, 60% females. Age was 3 to 85 years; majority of patients (25%, n=33) was between 10-19 years of age. Odontogenic lesions accounted for 79% (104) of facial swellings. Duration of intervention varied from one day to 10 years; significantly, one to 6 days was recorded for 55% for all categories of intervention- 78%(18/23) of patients using pharmaceutical fell into this category-. This was followed by 15% at up to 2 weeks duration. Intervention was pharmaceutical only for 18%(23), non-pharmaceutical in 45%(61) and 37% (47) combined both. Most frequently used pharmaceutical intervention was antibiotics 19% (26); 24% (31) utilized analgesic but 9(7%) of them used it topically and warm salt mouth bath was used by 13%(17). Thermotherapy, the topical application of moist heat soaked cloth in direct contact to orofacial skin and intraoral mucosa accounted for 34% (45) of non-pharmaceutical intervention followed by therapeutic balm massage by 31% (41). Two percent (3) each, removed worms or had incisions before hospital visit.

Observed effect on clinical presentation was extensibility of orofacial soft tissues resulting in diffuse soft swelling in 30% (39) extra-orally; fleshy soft mucosa swelling intraorally in 7.6%(10) and intraoral white tissue in 9% (12) patients.

Conclusion: Age was significantly associated with self-medication, peaking at the 10 to 19 years age group. Non-pharmaceutical agents were utilized more and for much longer. The use of pharmaceutical agents although shorter-terminating at 4 months- was continuous while the much longer utilization of the non-pharmaceutical agents lasting up to 10 years was intermittent. Overall, majority of patients rendered self-treatment for less than one week

Over-zealous use of interventions across all categories resulted in alteration of orofacial skin and mucosa in some patients. Noted effects on orofacial mucosa and skin varied from ulceration, whitish lesion and distension giving rise to alarming intraoral and extraoral distention.

Keywords: pre-hospital self -treatment, tissue extensibility, thermotherapy.

Airway Management Techniques in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Our practice in a Teaching Hospital Northwest Nigeria and Review of Literature.

2026-08-11T00:11:24+00:00

ABSTRACT Background: Airway management following maxillofacial trauma, orofacial abscess and oral tumors is challenging due to deranged anatomy, soft tissue injury, edema of the tongue, associated hemorrhage and limitation of mouth opening. Massive tumors of the jaws often obstruct the airways and airway is also compromised in midfacial fractures. The objective of this study was to present various methods that were used in our Centre to maintain airways in oral and maxillofacial surgery patients. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional observational study. One hundred patients admitted to Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital for maxillofacial surgery were selected by convenience sampling method. The study spanned from January 2023 to November, 2025. The methods of airway management were grouped into airway management in emergency cases and those for elective surgeries. The demography, diagnosis of the lesions, method of anesthesia, and complications encountered were recorded for each patient. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23. Results: Airway management for emergencies cases comprised of tracheostomy (n= 6, 6.0%), endotracheal intubation (oral & nasal) (n= 4, 4.0%), for elective cases endotracheal intubation was done in (n=62, 62.0%) of patients, tracheostomy done for (n=18, 18%) laryngeal mask done for (n=10, 10.0%). Challenges encounteed include failed intubation, bleeding, airway sub-tissue, and ineffective paralyzing agent. Conclusion: Airway management in maxillofacial surgery requires the skill of well-trained anesthesiologist to achie optimal results. Proper evaluation and planning of the anesthesia methods is necessary for safe surgery. Keywords: Airway manageent, maxillofacial surgery, trauma, tumours, anesthesia,

Evaluation of Maxillofacial Biopsy Results in the Paediatric Population: A Single Centre Retrospective Study

2026-08-11T00:21:01+00:00

Background: Children are also affected by diseases. The oral and maxillofacial region is exposed to various harmful and carcinogenic agents, leading to lesions. Biopsies are required to make a definitive diagnosis of these lesions. Biopsies help the surgeon plan concise treatment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the distribution of oral and maxillofacial biopsy results in the paediatric population.

Methods: This study was a 14-year retrospective study. Paediatric biopsy results from 2012 to 2025 were evaluated. The statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS, IBM) version 25 was utilised for data analysis. Percentage, mean, and standard deviation were utilised to represent numerical variables. Categorical variables were evaluated using frequency and percentage. Chi-square was employed to test for association. P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: 268 biopsy results were analysed in this study. There were more males (58.6%) than females, and the majority of lesions biopsied were benign (63.81%). Odontogenic tumours were the most common benign lesions, with ameloblastoma (17.54%) accounting for the majority. Sarcoma was the most common malignant lesion, with rhabdomyosarcoma (5.59%) being the most frequent subtype.

Conclusion: Children are a unique population, and tumours can also affect them. It is of utmost importance that the clinician maintains a high index of suspicion, given the uniqueness of children, and when doubt exists, a biopsy can be performed.

Keywords: Benign, Malignant, Odontogenic Tumour, Paediatric biopsy, Sarcoma

Knowledge, Opinions and Practice of Ergonomic Principles among Dental House Officers and Dental Resident Doctors at a South-western Nigerian Teaching Hospital

2026-08-11T01:33:17+00:00

Background: Dental practice involves high risks for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) due to sustained static postures and repetitive movements. Neglecting ergonomics leads to chronic pain, reduced dexterity, and premature career termination. This study evaluated the knowledge, opinions, and practice (KOP) of ergonomic principles among dental house officers and dental resident doctors (DRDs) at University College Hospital, Ibadan.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study utilized a total enumerative sampling technique. Data on socio-demographics and KOP levels were collected via a structured, pre-tested online questionnaire and analysed using SPSS Version 27.0.

Results: Out of the 58 respondents (65.5% male), 71% understood basic ergonomics. However, significant gaps existed regarding dental room design (58.6% unaware) and stretching exercises (75.9% unaware). Despite high theoretical knowledge, 74.1% used backrests only intermittently and 72.4% never utilized magnification. A statistically significant difference was identified regarding opinions toward ergonomic principles, with house officers demonstrating a significantly more positive attitude toward their application compared to DRDs (median = 17.00 and 18.00 respectively, U = 80.50, p = 0.040).

Conclusion: A substantial gap exists between ergonomic awareness and clinical application. Findings suggest a decline in positive attitudes toward ergonomics as trainees progress, likely due to clinical fatigue and procedural pressures.

Keywords: Dental ergonomics, Dental Education, Musculoskeletal disorders, Dental trainees.

Influence of Anthropometric Variables on the Efficacy of Two Antimicrobial Adjuncts to Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy in Individuals with Concomitant Hypertension and Periodontitis

2026-08-11T00:34:11+00:00

Background: Adiposity is an important determinant in the relationship between periodontal and systemic health. Some studies underscored the importance of antimicrobial agents as adjuncts to non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) in managing periodontitis in individuals with concomitant systemic diseases.

Objective: To assess the influence of body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) on the efficacy of two antimicrobial regimens used as adjuncts to NSPT in hypertensive subjects with periodontitis.

Methods: Sixty participants randomly allocated into two groups were treated with NSPT, but group A had adjunctive amoxicillin/metronidazole while group B had doxycycline. The burden of periodontal and systemic inflammation was assessed using the periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA) and serum high sensitivity capsid-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels respectively. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressures were also measured.

Results: There was no significant correlation between BMI and WHR and any of hs-CRP, PISA or SBP in both groups at baseline and three months after intervention. However existing relationship between non-obese and obese WHR, as well as between overweight and obese BMI categories and DBP at baseline in group A were gone at three months in both WHR categories and the overweight BMI, but persisted in the obese BMI categories. Conversely, correlations between both the overweight and obese BMI categories and DBP appeared at three months in group B. The significant predictors of BMI were gender and DBP, but only gender for WHR.

Conclusion: The study revealed that BMI had a greater negative influence on the efficacy of adjunctive antimicrobials to NSPT than WHR in individuals with hypertension and periodontitis, which was worse among the doxycycline group.

Keywords: Anthropometric variables, antimicrobial adjuncts, non-surgical periodontal therapy, periodontitis, hypertension

Evaluating Dental Service Delivery in A Safe and Comfortable Environment among Dental Practitioners in Benin City: Ergonomics Consideration

2026-08-11T00:42:02+00:00

Background: Poor workplace ergonomics can compromise the health of dental practitioners, leading to musculoskeletal disorders, reduced productivity, early retirement, and career changes. A safe work environment requires appropriate equipment, adequate workspace, proper lighting, and correct positioning of instruments. This study assessed the magnitude of and factors associated with poor ergonomic practices among dental practitioners in Benin City.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among dental practitioners in public and private dental facilities in Benin City over six months. Data were collected anonymously using a pretested, structured Google Forms questionnaire after informed consent. The questionnaire assessed participants' demographics, knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding dental ergonomics. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests were used to determine associations, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Fifty-six dental practitioners participated, with 85.7% working in the public sector. Most participants were aware of ergonomics (85.7%) and the health consequences of poor ergonomics (83.9%), particularly musculoskeletal pain (72.3%). While 92.9% knew the causes of musculoskeletal disorders, knowledge of specific ergonomic principles, including stool height, lighting position, and recommended stretches, was limited. Good ergonomic practices such as maintaining proper foot position (91.1%) and using dental mirrors (87.5%) were common; however, correct operating field positioning, upright posture, and the use of dental loupes were suboptimal. Sector of practice was the only factor significantly associated with ergonomic practice (p = 0.002), with private practitioners demonstrating better ergonomic practices.

Conclusion: Dental practitioners demonstrated inadequate ergonomic knowledge despite generally positive attitudes and fair ergonomic practices. Sector of practice significantly influenced ergonomic practice. Strengthening ergonomics education during undergraduate dental training and promoting continuing professional development may improve ergonomic compliance and reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders among dental practitioners.

Keywords: Dental ergonomics, dental practitioners, musculoskeletal disorders, occupational health, Benin City.

Clinicopathologic Presentation of Salivary Gland Tumours: A Retrospective Analysis from a Single Tertiary Care Centre

2026-08-11T00:48:53+00:00

Background: Salivary glands often develop various benign and malignant tumours, but their presentation in Nigerian patients is not well documented. This study reviews the clinicopathologic features of histologically diagnosed salivary gland tumours seen at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.

Methods: Records of SGT cases diagnosed from January 2017 to December 2024 at the department's biopsy service were reviewed. Data collected included patient demographics, tumour site, histopathologic diagnosis, and clinical features.

Results: A total of 38 SGT cases were identified, with patient ages ranging from 3 to 96 years (mean = 47.1 ± 21.58 years). There was a slight female predominance. The parotid gland was the most frequently affected site. Pleomorphic adenoma was the most common benign tumour, while adenoid cystic carcinoma represented the predominant malignant type. Pain was a significant presenting symptom, and male patients were more likely to present when pain was associated with the lesion.

Conclusion: This study examines SGT patterns at a Nigerian tertiary hospital, identifying pain as a key factor for presentation. The findings emphasize the importance of early public health education and reporting to improve outcomes.

Keywords: Salivary gland tumours, Pleomorphic adenoma, Adenoid cystic carcinoma.

Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence Integration in Dentistry Among Dental Therapists in Nigeria

2026-08-11T00:59:14+00:00

Background: In dentistry, AI applications are increasingly being integrated into clinical practice. However, successful adoption depends largely on the awareness, knowledge, perceptions, and readiness of healthcare professionals, particularly dental therapists who play an important role in preventive and primary oral healthcare in Nigeria. This study assessed the awareness, knowledge, perceptions, and readiness for Artificial Intelligence integration among dental therapists in Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among licensed dental therapists across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Participants were recruited from public and private healthcare facilities using purposive and stratified sampling techniques. Data were collected using a pretested structured, self-administered online questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, awareness, knowledge, perceptions, perceived barriers, and readiness for AI adoption. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise responses, while Chi-square tests, independent t-tests, and logistic regression were used for inferential analysis.

Results: A total of 112 dental therapists participated in the study, giving a response rate of 74.7%. Awareness of Artificial Intelligence was high, as 83.9% of respondents had heard of AI in dentistry. Knowledge of specific AI applications was moderate, with stronger knowledge in radiographic interpretation than in prosthodontics and periodontology. Respondents also had positive perceptions of AI, with 75.9% agreeing that AI can improve dental care quality and 69.6% agreeing that it enhances clinical decision-making. Readiness for AI integration was also high, as 75.0% were willing to adopt AI tools and 80.4% were willing to undergo AI-related training. Higher educational qualification and academic or research work settings were significantly associated with readiness for AI adoption.

Conclusion: Dental therapists in Nigeria demonstrated high awareness and positive perceptions of Artificial Intelligence, but gaps in detailed knowledge and practical readiness remain. Addressing these gaps through targeted training, curriculum integration, improved infrastructure, and institutional support is essential for effective and sustainable AI adoption in dental practice.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Dental Therapy, Awareness, Knowledge, Perception, Readiness, Nigeria

Effect of Health Education Intervention Programme and Socio-Demographic Composite Factors on Practice of Dental Caries Prevention Strategies among Adults in, Kaduna State, Nigeria

2026-08-11T01:05:53+00:00

Background: Practice of the preventive strategies in dental caries has been a challenge for the population over a long period of time. A multifaceted approach, the involvement of all dentists, health educators, and policy makers, as well as research studies that evaluate the results of the paradigm of caries prevention strategies and adjust it as necessary are all necessary for moving forward with practice and implementation.

Methods: This study adopted a quasi-experimental research design using a pre-test-post-test control group design. The sample size for this study consists of sixty (60) adults (male and female) that will be drawn from population of Zaria metropolis in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used. The instrument that was used for data collection in this study was a researcher-structured close-ended questionnaire.

Results: The effect of health education intervention programme on practice of dental caries prevention strategies among adult in Zaria metropolis of Kaduna State, Nigeria posttest is significant (p = 0.000). The effect between demographic characteristics (age and marital status) and health education intervention programme on practice of dental caries prevention strategies among adult of in Zaria metropolis Kaduna State, Nigeria (p = 0.000).

Conclusion: Tailor the intervention materials to address the unique needs and learning preferences of different age groups and marital statuses to maximize engagement and effectiveness. Integrate this effective intervention as part of routine public health education efforts to promote sustained dental caries prevention.

Keywords: Practice, Dental caries, Age, Marital Status, Intervention

Conservative Surgical Management of Conventional Ameloblastoma in Children and Young Adults: Clinical and Radiological Outcomes from a Case Series

2026-08-10T23:28:04+00:00

Background: Although radical resection of ameloblastoma minimizes recurrence, it often results in significant morbidity. Conservative surgery has gained attention, particularly in children, for preserving mandibular integrity and function.The objective of the study was to present the clinical and radiological outcomes of conservative surgical management of mandibular conventional ameloblastoma in children and young adults.

Case Series: Three patients aged 11–14 years with histologically confirmed conventional ameloblastoma of the mandible underwent conservative management via intraoral enucleation and curettage. Preoperative clinical and radiological assessments were performed, and follow-up was conducted for up to five years (mean: two years). Postoperative bone regeneration, functional recovery, and recurrence were evaluated. All cases involved the mandibular molar–ramus region and presented as painless swellings with multilocular radiolucencies. Conservative surgical treatment resulted in satisfactory healing and spontaneous bone regeneration, evident by the third postoperative month. Mandibular contour and function were fully restored, and no recurrence was observed during follow-up.

Conclusion: Conservative surgical management of conventional ameloblastoma can be effective in well-selected pediatric and young adult patients. It promotes bone regeneration, preserves mandibular structure, and minimizes the morbidity associated with radical resection.

Keywords: Ameloblastoma, Enucleation, Curettage, Mandible, Bone regeneration, Pediatric, Young adult

Enigmas of the Oral Mycobiome: A Narrative Review of the Delicate Dance Between Commensal and Pathogenic Fungi

2026-08-10T23:38:53+00:00

Background: The oral cavity harbors diverse microbial communities essential for oral and systemic health. Dysbiosis, or disruption of this balance, contributes to disease. The objective of this review was to elucidate the complexity and dualistic nature of the oral mycobiome, emphasizing the interplay between commensal and pathogenic fungi.

Methods: A comprehensive review of current literature was conducted, focusing on the oral mycobiome—particularly the interplay between commensal and pathogenic fungi. Studies were selected based on relevance and quality, with key findings synthesized to provide a focused overview.

Results: Recent technological advances have revealed the oral microbiome’s complexity, extending beyond bacteria to include fungi and viruses. Candida species, especially C. albicans, dominate the healthy oral mycobiome, but their shift to pathogenicity is influenced by bacterial interactions, immunity, and host factors. Non-Candida fungi, such as Malassezia and Cladosporium, are consistently present in health, indicating broader ecological roles. Cross-kingdom interactions between fungi and bacteria foster biofilm formation, increasing resistance to therapy and contributing to oral diseases like caries and periodontitis. Fungal dysbiosis is associated with systemic conditions, including diabetes and HIV, with oral mycobiome shifts serving as both biomarkers and modulators of disease. Next-generation sequencing has highlighted inter-individual variability, shaped by genetics, environment, and diet. The oral mycobiome also modulates immune responses, influencing susceptibility to infection.

Conclusion This review synthesizes current knowledge on the oral mycobiome, emphasizing the specific roles and interactions of commensal and pathogenic fungi, factors shaping their balance, and their emerging clinical significance

Keywords: Oral Mycobiome. Commensal, Pathogen, Fungi