Clinical trials

The purpose of the Research Study and Overview of Participation: This study will compare different approaches used to prevent pain when giving local anesthesia to numb the teeth while managing dental cavities and decay. Specifically, it seeks to determine which approach will reduce the pain and discomfort during or after the procedure. This will help dentists to choose the best approach to reduce patient's pain and discomfort and improve the overall experience of dental treatment. Participants in the study would likely undergo the following: 1. Screening and Consent: Participants would be assessed for eligibility (e.g., age, health status, and presence of dental caries requiring treatment) and would provide informed consent. 2. Intervention: Participants would be randomly assigned to different groups based on the type or method of topical anesthesia being tested. 3. Treatment Procedure: Dental caries management would be performed under local anesthesia, with the designated topical anesthetic applied beforehand. 4. Pain Assessment: Participants would rate their pain levels during and after the procedure using validated pain measurement scales (e.g., visual analog scale). 5. Follow-Up: Participants might be monitored for a short duration post-treatment to assess any residual pain or side effects. This design ensures that the study collects reliable data on the effectiveness of the different topical anesthetic approaches while prioritizing patient safety and comfort.

Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is a common developmental enamel defect affecting children, particularly in Dubai, where it contributes to hypersensitivity, esthetic concerns, plaque accumulation, and increased caries risk. These complications often lead to premature tooth extraction and orthodontic issues, negatively impacting children's oral health-related quality of life. This randomized, open-label clinical trial aims to compare the remineralization efficacy of a fluoride-free hydroxyapatite toothpaste with a conventional fluoride toothpaste in children aged 6-12 years diagnosed with mild to moderate MIH. Participants will be recruited from Dubai Health pediatric dental clinics, with inclusion criteria requiring at least one affected permanent molar or incisor, good general health, parental informed consent, and the child's assent. Children with systemic conditions affecting enamel or recent use of desensitizing treatments will be excluded. Primary outcome assessment will involve Quantitative Light-Induced Fluorescence-QLF at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. The images were analyzed using a commercial software program (Inspektor QLF 1.97, Inspektor Research Systems, Amsterdam, The Netherlands) to determine the change in fluorescence (ΔF, %) and extension of the lesion (area; mm2). Secondary outcome measures will include enamel fluorescence readings using the DIAGNOdent Pen. After prophylaxis and air-drying, three readings per lesion will be recorded, with mean and peak values analyzed to monitor mineralization. Hypersensitivity in MIH-affected teeth will be assessed using air stimulus (Schiff scale) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) will be measured using age-appropriate validated questionnaires to evaluate the impact of MIH and treatment over time. This study also responds to growing parental concerns about fluoride exposure and the demand for safer, fluoride-free alternatives. By evaluating the clinical effectiveness of hydroxyapatite toothpaste, the trial aims to inform evidence-based preventive strategies for MIH management. The findings may guide clinical practice and public health recommendations, ultimately improving oral health outcomes for affected children.