Sistema Regional de Información
en línea para Revistas Científicas de América Latina,
el Caribe, España y Portugal

Introduction: Appropriate management of child behavior is essential to reduce fear and improve cooperation, and should be complemented with techniques such as distraction, positive reinforcement, and parental support to ensure effective treatment. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the impact of behavior management techniques in pediatric dentistry on children aged 3 to 5 years. Methodology: A comprehensive review of articles published between 2020 and 2024 was conducted. Results: Behavioral management in pediatric dentistry is essential to ensure a positive experience in children aged 3 to 5 years, using strategies that reduce anxiety and encourage cooperation, early oral health education, combined with active parental involvement, plays a crucial role in preventing dental problems and establishing long-term healthy habits, these practices not only improve oral health but also contribute to the emotional and social well-being of children, creating a solid foundation for their future dental health and confidence in dental care. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of appropriate behavioral management in pediatric dentistry for children aged 3 to 5 years.

Objective: To report on the use of diode laser as a complementary tool in the endodontic treatment of a necrotic mandibular molar with an acute periapical lesion. Case presentation: A 38-year-old male patient presented with acute pain in the right mandibular region. Clinical and radiographic evaluation confirmed pulp necrosis and acute periapical abscess in tooth 4.6. A standard protocol of chemical irrigation with sodium hypochlorite (5%) and EDTA (17%) was used, complemented with diode laser in high power mode for disinfection and low power for photobiomodulation. Tomographic control at five months showed periapical healing and bone regeneration. Conclusion: The integration of diode laser as an adjuvant to endodontic therapy can improve tissue regeneration, making it a potential complementary tool in complex cases.

Introduction: An 8-year-old female patient attended the Serodu Dental Clinic with her older sister due to concerns about an anterior crossbite. An orthopedic analysis was performed, which revealed a transversal problem, poor distribution of teeth in the arches, and difficulty in eruption of upper anterior permanent teeth. Justification: This clinical case aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of maxillary expansion treatment with a hyrax and face mask as an effective orthopedic solution in class III pediatric patients, aiming to create an environment where favorable dentofacial development can occur to prevent progressive changes in non-functional hard and soft tissues, improve skeletal differences, and provide optimal conditions for future craniofacial growth. Objective: To correct skeletal class III malocclusion in a pediatric patient through the use of a Hyrax and face mask, redirecting bone growth, contributing to improving the function, occlusion, and aesthetics of the growing patient. The case: The proposed treatment was the placement of an 11 mm upper Hyrax orthopedic appliance and a Petit face mask, to provide superior disjunction and maxillary protection. Conclusion: The application of interceptive appliances in patients during growth presents innumerable advantages, and the use of fixed appliances and a face mask will benefit and provide significant changes in all aspects of the patient's life, thus being a promising option for patients with similar needs.

Objective: to present a clinical case report of a patient with Fetal Valproate Syndrome (VFS) and bring into discussion the consequences of the disease and its relationship with Dentistry, in addition to possible alternative methods for women with epilepsy, who are planning a gestation. Materials and Methods: To develop this clinical case report, the precepts of the exploratory study were followed, through bibliographical research on SVF, through scientific articles, medication leaflets, books, medical manuals and informative booklets. A search was carried out in the PubMed and Scielo databases, using the keywords in English: ‘’Valproic Acid’’, ‘’Sodium Valproate’’ and ‘’Fetal Valproate Syndrome’’. Results: The literature review cites SVF and its relationship with dentistry in detail, in addition to other important information, such as pre-pregnancy therapeutic options, for women with epilepsy who wish to become pregnant. Conclusions: Most studies suggest avoiding sodium valproate as a first-choice treatment for epilepsy in women of childbearing age. However, it is clear that the approach to epilepsy and pregnancy must begin at the beginning of reproductive life. It is important to define pre-conceptionally, and in a multidisciplinary manner, an effective and least teratogenic regimen possible, to guarantee the health of the mother and baby. There are many oral manifestations related to the use of anticonvulsants, which makes the knowledge of dentists extremely important, facilitating dental treatment.

Introduction: Supernumerary teeth are additional dental structures with a prevalence ranging from 0.1% to 3.8%, which can cause complications such as dental crowding, delayed eruption, and odontogenic cysts, affecting aesthetics and oral functionality. Objective: This study aims to present the surgical management of a supernumerary tooth with guided bone regeneration, performed on a 22-year-old female patient at the Universidad Hemisferios clinic, highlighting preoperative planning, surgical technique, biomaterial use, and the obtained results. Materials and Methods: An intraoral and extraoral clinical examination, panoramic radiography, and computed tomography were performed to assess the position of the supernumerary tooth, along with blood tests to rule out surgical contraindications. The treatment included the surgical extraction of the tooth through osteotomy, followed by guided bone regeneration using a demineralized bone allograft and a porcine pericardium membrane to preserve bone volume and improve healing. Results: The procedure was successful, achieving the removal of the supernumerary tooth and adequate regeneration of the bone defect. The patient showed favorable recovery with no postoperative complications, optimal healing, and graft stability. Conclusions: The surgical approach with guided bone regeneration is an effective and safe technique for managing supernumerary teeth, as it promotes bone restoration, improves the patient’s quality of life, and facilitates future dental rehabilitations.

Introduction: Dietary habits include the repetitive consumption of acidic foods, carbonated beverages, and sour sweets, which can cause dental erosion, i.e., the loss of enamel due to intrinsic or extrinsic factors. The objective of this study was to determine dietary habits and dental erosion in students of the Dentistry Program at San Gregorio of Portoviejo University. Materials and methods: A descriptive, quantitative study was conducted. The sample consisted of dentistry students enrolled in the second to fifth semesters. The Basic Erosive Wear Examination was also used. This is a basic erosive wear examination that measures dental erosion based on a set of criteria and a scoring system. For this study, the procedure was based on clinical observation of the most affected teeth. Results: All participants presented some degree of dental erosion. Carbonated beverage consumption was found to be the most common dietary habit among dental students with dental erosion. The majority of those examined were characterized as having grade 2 dental erosion and a low risk level according of the method used. Conclusions: The dietary habits of dentistry students follow a consumption trend that begins with carbonated beverages, followed by citrus juices, acidic fruits, and sour sweets, which contribute to the progression of dental erosion, as evidenced by the clinical evaluation of the students.

Introduction: Neonatal teeth are a rare condition that occurs when teeth erupt at birth or within the first month of life, with a low incidence and generally without gender preference, they have been associated with hereditary factors and conditions such as hypovitaminosis or trauma, and although they are usually part of the normal primary dentition, they can cause complications such as difficulty feeding and risk of aspiration. Materials and method: The bibliographic review focused on the dental management of neonatal teeth, analyzing articles from databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Elsevier, and SciELO between 2019 and 2024. Studies specifically on neonatal teeth in pediatric patients were included, excluding those that were not directly related to the topic. Result: The dental management of neonatal teeth is a key area in pediatric dentistry that involves the care of teeth present at birth or that emerge in the first days of life. Although this condition is relatively rare, it can present significant challenges for the infant, such as feeding difficulties or risk of aspiration. Conclusion: Early attention and the appropriate approach in these cases are essential to avoid long-term complications, ensuring the general well-being and oral health of the child in its early stages of development.

Introduction: Pyogenic granuloma is a common benign vascular lesion in the oral cavity, caused by local irritants or hormonal factors, characterized by localized tissue growth. Objective: To present the surgical treatment of a recurrent pyogenic granuloma using a minimally invasive approach, focused on the complete removal of the lesion, preservation of adjacent structures and optimization of recovery. Materials and Methods: This clinical case corresponds to a 45-year-old female patient with recurrent pyogenic granuloma in the palatal area of ​​​​dental organs #22 and #23. Complete excision of the lesion was performed with electrosurgical blade, followed by the application of zinc oxide and eugenol to facilitate healing and minimize the risk of recurrence. Results: The procedure allowed the complete removal of the granuloma, preserving adjacent structures and improving gingival aesthetics and functionality. The technique used facilitated a rapid and uncomplicated recovery, standing out for its minimally traumatic nature. Conclusions: Surgical treatment of pyogenic granuloma using a minimally invasive approach is effective and safe, improving patient quality of life. Accurate diagnosis and proper planning are essential to ensure treatment success and preserve surrounding structures.

Introduction: Oral health is essential for general well-being, affecting both aesthetics and function and emotional life. During adolescence, parafunctional habits such as bruxism can cause damage to the temporomandibular joint and the stomatognathic system. It is crucial to detect and treat these habits early to prevent longterm complications and ensure adequate oral health. Objective: The aim of this article is to highlight the importance of treating parafunctional corrections at both the oral and neural levels, ensuring comprehensive and personalized care for each patient. Methodology: A comprehensive review of studies published between 2020 and 2024 was carried out, using databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Elsevier and SciELO. Result: Bruxism and other parafunctional habits, such as thumb sucking or mouth breathing, can seriously affect the stomatognathic system, causing tooth wear and TMJ disorders. Early intervention is crucial to prevent long-term damage, and multidisciplinary treatment, including bite plates, relaxation techniques, and orthodontics, can improve symptoms. Conclusion: Parafunction corrections require a comprehensive approach that includes both dental treatment and management of muscle tension and neurological disturbances.

Salivary alpha-amylase is an enzyme regulated by the sympathetic nervous system that reflects stress levels and is associated with sleep quality. Objective: To analyze the relationship between salivary alpha-amylase levels and sleep quality, considering its usefulness as a non-invasive biomarker. Methodology: A bibliographic review of the literature was carried out using the PRISMA methodology, using the PubMed, Scopus and EBSCO Host databases to identify studies published between 2019 and 2023. Results: Elevated levels of salivary alpha-amylase are related to excessive sympathetic activation, which negatively affects sleep quality, especially in stressful situations, such as sleep deprivation in students and health professionals. Additionally, interventions such as mindfulness and relaxation techniques reduce salivary alpha-amylase levels and improve sleep quality. Conclusions: The findings underline the relevance of AAs as a non-invasive biomarker of sleep and stress, useful to explore their role in the regulation of physiological balance.