International, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to disseminating original research and clinical evidence in oral and dental sciences, aimed at strengthening evidence-based practice, scientific innovation, and academic excellence with a global perspective.
Latin American Society of Medical Sciences
Authors retain the copyright of their work and grant TUMI Oral Health the right of first publication. Articles are published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided that the original work is properly cited.
Flexural and compressive strength of bis-acryl, polymethyl methacrylate, and 3D-printed provisional resins: a comparative in vitro study
Background: Provisional restorations must maintain adequate mechanical integrity during treatment, particularly when subjected to bending and occlusal forces. Objective: To compare the flexural and compressive strengths of a bis-acryl resin, an autopolymerizing polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) resin, and a 3D-printed provisional resin. Methods: A comparative experimental in vitro study was conducted using 54 specimens, with 18 specimens assigned to each material. For each group, nine specimens were evaluated for flexural strength and nine for compressive strength. After storage in distilled water at 37 °C for 24 hours, flexural strength was assessed using a three-point bending test and compressive strength by axial loading in a universal testing machine. Results: Significant differences were found among the materials for flexural strength (F = 6.104; p = 0.007) and compressive strength (F = 20.750; p = 0.000). The bis-acryl resin showed the highest mean flexural strength (69.46 ± 7.70 MPa), followed by the 3D-printed resin (60.92 ± 3.54 MPa) and PMMA (57.04 ± 10.36 MPa). It also showed the highest mean compressive strength (82.25 ± 14.79 MPa), followed by the 3D-printed resin (75.96 ± 5.62 MPa) and PMMA (51.30 ± 9.89 MPa). Flexural strength differed significantly between the bis-acryl resin and both PMMA and the 3D-printed resin, whereas compressive strength differed significantly between PMMA and the other two materials. Conclusion: Under the conditions of this study, the bis-acryl resin demonstrated the most favorable overall mechanical performance, while the 3D-printed resin showed compressive strength comparable to that of the bis-acryl resin.
Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry
Copyright (c) 2026 Valerie Saldaña-Carranza (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Association between video game addiction and dental malocclusion in adolescents: A case-control study
Background: Problematic video gaming has been associated with adverse behavioral and health outcomes in adolescents; however, evidence regarding its relationship with clinically assessed dental malocclusion remains limited. Objective: To evaluate the association between video game addiction and dental malocclusion among adolescents from a secondary school in northern Peru. Methods: An observational, analytical, unmatched case-control study was conducted in 216 adolescents aged 12–17 years, comprising 72 cases with Angle Class II or III malocclusion and 144 controls with Angle Class I. Video game addiction was assessed using the seven-item Game Addiction Scale for Adolescents, and malocclusion was determined through a calibrated clinical examination according to Angle’s classification. The association was evaluated using Pearson’s chi-square test and binary logistic regression adjusted for sex, age, and dental attendance. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Video game addiction was identified in 70.8% of participants and was more frequent among cases than controls (83.3% vs 64.6%). A statistically significant association was observed between video game addiction and malocclusion category (χ² = 8.168; p = 0.004). In the multivariable model, video game addiction remained significantly associated with Angle Class II or III malocclusion (p = 0.012), whereas sex (p = 0.969), age (p = 0.303), and dental attendance (p = 0.174) were not significantly associated. Conclusions: Video game addiction was associated with Angle Class II or III malocclusion among the adolescents evaluated. Gaming-related behaviors may therefore be considered during adolescent dental and orthodontic assessment, although the observational design does not establish causality.
Copyright (c) 2026 Cristhiam Fernando Melendez-Arroyo, Luis Miguel Urbina-Castro (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Patient satisfaction with 3D-printed versus conventionally fabricated dental prostheses: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Background: Tooth loss compromises mastication, speech, esthetics, and oral health-related quality of life. Although three-dimensional (3D) printing may improve prosthesis reproducibility, shorten manufacturing time, and reduce clinical visits, whether these advantages increase patient satisfaction remains uncertain. Objective: To compare patient satisfaction with 3D-printed versus conventionally fabricated dental prostheses. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis included randomized clinical trials identified in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase from database inception to February 2025, without language or publication-year restrictions. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42025648057), and the review followed PRISMA 2020. Two reviewers independently performed study selection and data extraction. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane RoB 2, and certainty of evidence was evaluated with GRADE. Random-effects meta-analysis was conducted using standardized mean differences (SMDs). Results: Of 121 records identified, 18 studies met the eligibility criteria, and 10 contributed data to the meta-analysis. The pooled estimate showed no statistically significant difference in patient satisfaction between 3D-printed and conventionally fabricated prostheses (SMD = 0.03; 95% CI: −0.94 to 1.01; p = 0.94), with high heterogeneity (I² = 90%). Subgroup analyses of complete dentures and implant-supported prostheses also showed no significant differences. The certainty of evidence was low. Conclusions: Current evidence does not demonstrate superiority of either fabrication method for patient satisfaction. Clinical selection should therefore consider prosthesis type, fit, function, workflow requirements, and patient preferences.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kevin Arnold Germán-Guzmán, Angelo Julio Guillermo Gallo-Caballero, Eduardo Eleuterio Fuentesrivera-Rojas (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Prevalence and distribution of developmental dental anomalies on panoramic radiographs of adults from Ica and Huamanga, Peru, 2021–2023: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Background: Developmental dental anomalies may affect diagnosis, occlusion, esthetics, treatment planning, and long-term oral health. Their prevalence varies among populations, but evidence in Peruvian adults remains limited. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of developmental dental anomalies observed on panoramic radiographs of adults from Ica and Huamanga, Peru, between 2021 and 2023. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using 646 panoramic radiographs of adults aged 20 to 50 years. Dental anomalies were classified according to alterations in tooth shape, size, and number through radiographic observation. Data were analyzed using absolute and relative frequencies. Results: Developmental dental anomalies were identified in 38.5% of radiographs. Shape anomalies were the most frequent category (16.6%), followed by size anomalies (15.6%) and number anomalies (6.3%). No developmental dental anomalies were observed in 61.5% of radiographs. Conclusions: Developmental dental anomalies were frequent among adults from Ica and Huamanga, with shape anomalies being the most common finding. These results support the usefulness of panoramic radiographs for identifying dental anomalies and improving clinical decision-making in adult dental care.
Copyright (c) 2026 Eylim Edir Montero-Betalleluz (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Antibacterial effect of hydroethanolic extracts of Mentha piperita and Cymbopogon citratus against Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175: In vitro study.
Dental caries remains one of the most prevalent oral diseases worldwide, primarily associated with the activity of Streptococcus mutans. The search for natural antimicrobial agents has gained increasing attention due to their potential effectiveness and reduced adverse effects compared to conventional agents. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial effect of hydroethanolic extracts of Mentha piperita and Cymbopogon citratus, individually and in combination, against Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175. An in vitro experimental, prospective, and analytical study was conducted using 50 Petri dishes distributed into five groups: hydroethanolic extract of Mentha piperita, Cymbopogon citratus, their combination, 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate (positive control), and a negative control. All groups were exposed to a standardized bacterial suspension of 1.5 × 10⁸ CFU/mL. Antibacterial activity was assessed by measuring inhibition zones using a calibrated Vernier caliper. The combination of extracts at 100% concentration showed the highest antibacterial effect with a mean inhibition zone of 18.8 mm, while individual extracts of Cymbopogon citratus and Mentha piperita both showed inhibition zones of 16.1 mm. Statistical analysis using ANOVA revealed significant differences among groups (p < 0.05). The findings suggest that the combined use of Mentha piperita and Cymbopogon citratus hydroethanolic extracts exhibits enhanced antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans, indicating their potential as alternative agents for the prevention of dental caries.
Copyright (c) 2026 Carlos Edilberto Benites-Flores, Rossemarie Jetzabel Loaiza-Molina (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Effect of subgingival irrigation on post-scaling bacteremia in periodontal therapy: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
Periodontal procedures such as scaling and root planing may induce transient bacteremia, representing a potential systemic risk, particularly in medically compromised patients. Subgingival irrigation has been proposed as an adjunctive strategy to reduce microbial dissemination; however, its effectiveness remains uncertain. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy of subgingival irrigation versus no irrigation in reducing bacteremia following periodontal therapy. A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and BVS up to August 2024, following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The protocol was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD42025636563). Randomized clinical trials were included, and the primary outcome was the presence of bacteremia, analyzed using risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals under a random-effects model. Seven studies comprising 318 participants were included. The pooled analysis showed a non-significant reduction in bacteremia risk in the subgingival irrigation group (RR = 0.65; 95% CI: 0.37–1.13; p = 0.06), with moderate heterogeneity (I² = 41%). Among the evaluated agents, povidone-iodine and azithromycin demonstrated greater reductions in bacteremia. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach and rated as high. Although statistical significance was not reached, a consistent trend suggests that subgingival irrigation, particularly with povidone-iodine, may contribute to reducing bacteremia after periodontal treatment and could be considered in patients at increased systemic risk.
Copyright (c) 2026 Wendy Carolina Pisconte-León, Evelyn Giovanna Pisconte-León, Raul Achahui-Ventura (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Knowledge of oral cancer and associated factors among senior dental students at a Peruvian university: A cross-sectional study.
Oral cancer represents a significant global public health concern due to its high morbidity and mortality, largely attributed to late diagnosis and insufficient awareness among healthcare professionals. Dental students play a crucial role in early detection and prevention; therefore, assessing their level of knowledge is essential to identify educational gaps. This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge regarding oral cancer among senior dental students at a Peruvian university. An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 73 students enrolled in the final academic years. Data were collected using a structured online questionnaire administered via Google Forms, evaluating knowledge across five domains: epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Descriptive statistics were applied to summarize the findings. Overall, 83.6% (n = 61) of participants demonstrated a high level of knowledge, while 9.6% (n = 7) and 6.8% (n = 5) showed moderate and low levels, respectively. Regarding specific domains, high knowledge levels were observed in prevention (79.4%), treatment (76.7%), etiopathogenesis (75.3%), diagnosis (50.7%), and epidemiology (47.9%). Despite the generally high overall knowledge, variability across domains suggests the presence of specific gaps, particularly in epidemiological and diagnostic aspects. In conclusion, senior dental students exhibited a predominantly high level of knowledge about oral cancer; however, targeted educational strategies are recommended to strengthen critical areas and enhance early detection competencies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Claudia Nathaly Caballero-Orbegoso, Jeiser Yubel Zavaleta-Valverde (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Oral health–related quality of life among adolescents in peri-urban communities: A cross-sectional study.
Oral health–related quality of life (OHRQoL) is an important indicator of the impact of oral conditions on daily functioning, well-being, and social interactions, particularly during adolescence, a stage characterized by significant physical and psychosocial development. Assessing OHRQoL in this population is essential for identifying unmet oral health needs and guiding preventive strategies in vulnerable settings. This study aimed to evaluate oral health–related quality of life among adolescents in peri-urban communities. An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 107 secondary school students selected from a population of 147 adolescents. Data were collected using the Child Perceptions Questionnaire, a validated instrument for assessing OHRQoL in young populations. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using frequencies and percentages. Overall, 77.6% (n = 83) of participants reported a good level of oral health–related quality of life, while 22.4% (n = 24) reported a moderate level. When stratified by age, a higher proportion of good OHRQoL was observed among 13-year-old adolescents (87.0%), followed by those aged 12 years (80.0%), 11 years (71.4%), and 14 years (71.4%). These findings indicate that most adolescents perceive their oral health as having a limited impact on their daily lives; however, a relevant proportion still experiences some degree of impairment. In conclusion, oral health–related quality of life among adolescents in peri-urban communities was predominantly favorable, although targeted preventive and educational interventions remain necessary to address existing disparities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Joselin Leisbia Silva-Viera, Anali Gamboa-Dominguez (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Effectiveness of systemic antibiotic therapy in reducing dry socket incidence after tooth extraction: A randomized controlled trial
Alveolar osteitis, commonly known as dry socket, is one of the most frequent postoperative complications following tooth extraction and is associated with significant patient discomfort and delayed healing. Although several preventive strategies have been proposed, the role of systemic antibiotic therapy in reducing its incidence remains controversial due to concerns about effectiveness and antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of systemic antibiotic therapy in reducing the incidence of dry socket after tooth extraction in a primary healthcare center located in northern Peru. A quantitative, longitudinal, randomized controlled trial was conducted, including a total of 120 patients undergoing tooth extraction. Clinical evaluations were performed postoperatively, and data were recorded using a standardized data collection form. The results showed that the overall incidence of dry socket varied across demographic groups, with similar proportions observed between males (27.5%) and females (26.7%). Regarding age distribution, the highest frequency was observed in patients aged 46 years and older (25.0%), followed by younger age groups. Patients receiving systemic antibiotic therapy showed a lower occurrence of dry socket compared to those who did not receive antibiotics. These findings suggest that systemic antibiotic therapy may be effective in reducing the incidence of dry socket following tooth extraction. However, its use should be carefully considered in the context of clinical indications and antimicrobial stewardship.
Copyright (c) 2026 Evelyn Paola Castillo-Quispe, Shelly Wendy Ipenza-Mejía (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Association between knowledge and attitudes toward dental marketing among practicing dentists in Peru: A cross-sectional study.
In recent years, the integration of marketing strategies into dental practice has become essential for improving professional competitiveness, patient acquisition, and service sustainability. However, evidence on dentists’ knowledge and attitudes toward dental marketing remains limited, particularly in developing countries. This study aimed to assess the association between knowledge and attitudes toward dental marketing among practicing dentists in Peru. A quantitative, observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study was conducted, including 139 dentists selected from a population of 215 professionals in Trujillo. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire developed by Calderón T, designed to evaluate knowledge and attitudes related to dental marketing. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square test. The results demonstrated a statistically significant association between knowledge level and attitudes toward dental marketing (p<0.001). Regarding knowledge, a regular level was more frequent among males (30.2%), whereas a poor level predominated among females (25.2%); by age, dentists aged ≥46 years showed mainly regular knowledge (21.6%). Concerning attitudes, poor attitudes were observed in both males (25.2%) and females (25.9%), with the highest frequency in the 36–45-year age group (23.7%). These findings indicate that insufficient knowledge is associated with unfavorable attitudes toward dental marketing. In conclusion, a significant association exists between knowledge and attitudes, highlighting the need to strengthen training in marketing competencies among dental professionals.
Copyright (c) 2026 Benhur Miqueas Floreano-Mendoza, Sandra yuleisy Obando-Izquierdo (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Effectiveness of chlorhexidine, hyaluronic acid, and anti-discoloration mouthrinses on periodontal wound healing: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Periodontal wound healing following surgical or non-surgical therapy remains a clinical challenge, and adjunctive mouthrinses are commonly prescribed to enhance tissue repair and control biofilm accumulation. Chlorhexidine is considered the gold standard for chemical plaque control; however, adverse effects such as tooth staining have prompted the development of modified formulations, including hyaluronic acid and anti-discoloration systems (ADS). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the effectiveness of chlorhexidine-based mouthwashes, hyaluronic acid formulations, and anti-discoloration systems versus other rinses on periodontal healing outcomes. A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines, and randomized controlled trials were included. The protocol was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024616667). Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool, and certainty of evidence was evaluated with the GRADE approach. Of 339 records screened, five trials involving 242 participants met the eligibility criteria. Outcomes included gingival healing indices, plaque index, bleeding scores, and dental pigmentation. While individual studies reported clinical improvements within intervention groups, pooled analyses showed small and non-statistically significant effects across healing, plaque, and bleeding outcomes. Overall certainty of evidence ranged from low to moderate due to heterogeneity and limited sample sizes. Current evidence suggests comparable short-term effectiveness among these formulations, without clear superiority of any specific regimen for periodontal healing.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jorge Oscar Espejo-Zuñiga, María Victoria Espinoza-Salcedo, Augusto Alberto Aguirre-Aguilar (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Association between anxiety and temporomandibular disorders assessed by Fonseca Index in Peruvian schoolchildren: a cross-sectional study.
Background: Anxiety and temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are increasingly recognized as interrelated conditions, particularly in pediatric and adolescent populations, where psychosocial factors may influence musculoskeletal function. However, evidence on this association among school-aged populations remains limited in Peru. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the association between anxiety and temporomandibular disorders assessed using the Fonseca Index in Peruvian secondary school students. Methods: A quantitative, observational, cross-sectional, non-experimental study with a correlational scope was conducted in a private educational institution. A non-probabilistic convenience sample of 92 students was selected from a total population of 120. Eligible participants were students enrolled in secondary education who provided assent and whose parents or legal guardians provided informed consent. Data were collected using the Fonseca Anamnestic Index and the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and the association between variables was analyzed using the chi-square test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Moderate anxiety was observed in 16.3% of participants, while mild TMD was identified in 40.2%. A statistically significant association was found between anxiety levels and TMD according to the Fonseca Index (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Anxiety was significantly associated with the presence of TMD in secondary school students. These findings support the incorporation of psychosocial assessment into preventive and clinical dental care for school-aged populations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anali Gamboa-Dominguez, Jherson David Leon-Rodriguez (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/