Canadian Journal of Dental Hygiene (CJDH)

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots and large language models (LLMs) have the potential to revolutionize higher education by providing personalized learning, enhancing accessibility, and offering real-time academic support. However, ChatGPT and similar smart text-generating LLMs can be easily exploited by students to write assignments or essays, challenging traditional methods of assessment. For third-year students in the dental hygiene program at a Canadian university, a written assignment was designed by incorporating several features to prevent students from exploiting AI in their writing. A study was conducted to explore students’ use of AI tools in assignment writing. Methods: The assignment was designed as a literature review, in accordance with the milestone-based assessment approach. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected from students’ written responses to reflective questions. Manifest content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. Results: Forty-seven students responded to the questions, of whom 77% (n = 36) mentioned not using AI chatbots while completing their assignments, whereas 23% reported using AI tools. The content analysis generated 3 categories, representing students’ reasoning for not using AI chatbots in writing the assignment: pedagogical concerns, ethical concerns, and concerns with the technology. Discussion and Conclusion: As generative AI evolves, new assessment methods will be necessary to evaluate critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity—skills that LLMs cannot replicate. The findings of this study can help educators design AI-resistant assignments while deepening their understanding of student attitudes towards and perceptions of advanced AI tools.

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT can support learning by providing personalized help and quick access to information, but they can also be used unethically by students to complete written assignments. This study looked at whether dental hygiene students used AI when completing a literature review assignment that was designed to discourage AI use. Of the 47 students who responded, 77% said they did not use AI, while 23% reported using it. Students who chose not to use AI gave reasons related to learning, academic integrity, and the accuracy and ease-of-use of the technology. The study suggests that educators may need to develop new types of assignments that better assess students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while also guiding them on the responsible use of AI.

Background: Children diagnosed with cancer often experience a substantial decline in their quality of life partly attributed to cancer therapy-induced oral complications such as oral mucositis and dental caries. Self-perceived health questions provide insight into children’s lived experiences and are valuable instruments in health research. This study evaluated the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of hospitalized children aged 8 to 12 years undergoing cancer therapy at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya, and examined the relationship between oral mucositis, dental caries, and OHRQoL in this population. Methods: This descriptive, hospital-based study nested within a larger cross-sectional study was conducted in the pediatric oncology wards of Kenyatta National Hospital. Thirty-one children aged 8 to 12 years undergoing cancer therapy were enrolled. Data collection comprised a clinical oral examination to assess oral mucositis and dental caries. Oral mucositis was graded according to the WHO Oral Mucositis Scale (1979). Dental caries was evaluated using the dmft/DMFT index, while OHRQoL was measured using the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ8–10). Results: Acute lymphocytic leukemia was the most common cancer (19.4%). The prevalence of oral mucositis was 35.5%, while 64.5% of participants presented with dental caries. Oral mucositis was linked to a significantly lower OHRQoL among affected children. Discussion: Oral mucositis adversely affects the quality of life of children receiving cancer therapy. Children’s self-reported perceptions offer valuable insights into how oral health influences their overall well-being. Conclusion: Integrating oral health professionals and an OHRQoL dimension into childhood cancer care offers a holistic approach to patient management and enhanced well-being.

Children receiving treatment for cancer often develop oral complications, such as oral mucositis and dental caries, which can affect their quality of life. This study used a clinical examination and structured questionnaire to assess the oral health and quality of life of 31 children ages 8 to 12 years receiving cancer treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital in Kenya. The researchers found that 35.5% of the children had oral mucositis and 64.5% had caries. Children with oral mucositis reported a lower quality of life. This study highlights the importance of including oral health professionals on cancer care teams to manage oral complications and support the overall well-being of patients.

Background: Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) is a common condition that affects oral health-related quality of life. Toothbrush bristle stiffness has been suggested as a contributing factor. This systematic review aimed to answer the question: Is there an association between toothbrush bristle stiffness and the prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity in adults? Methods: A structured literature search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science up to January 2025, following PRISMA guidelines. Search terms included “dentine hypersensitivity,” “toothbrush bristle,” “bristle stiffness,” and related keywords. Observational studies assessing DH in individuals using toothbrushes with different bristle stiffness (soft, medium or hard) were included. Studies involving participants under 18 or those with orthodontic appliances were excluded. Two reviewers independently screened the studies and assessed quality using the JBI Appraisal Checklist. Results: Of 2694 records, 2 cross-sectional studies met the inclusion criteria. One reported similar DH prevalence with soft (35.6%) and medium or hard (32.7%) bristles. The other found a slightly higher prevalence with medium bristles (53%). No significant associations were reported. A narrative synthesis was performed due to heterogeneity. Discussion: Both studies had a high risk of bias, they showed inconsistencies in measuring bristle stiffness and failed to control for confounding factors such as brushing force or technique. The GRADE assessment rated the quality of evidence as very low. Conclusion: There is no clear association between toothbrush bristle stiffness and DH prevalence. Brushing technique and force may be more influential and should be emphasized in clinical recommendations.

Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) is a common problem that can affect a person’s quality of life. This review explored whether the stiffness of toothbrush bristles (soft, medium or hard) is linked to DH in adults. Researchers found 2,694 studies, but only 2 met the criteria for inclusion and analysis. Neither study found a clear link between bristle stiffness and tooth sensitivity. However, both studies had limitations, and the overall quality of the evidence was low. It is possible that brushing technique and how much pressure is used may be more important factors than bristle stiffness. More well-designed clinical trials on this topic are needed.

Objective: Hyaluronic acid (HA) has received considerable attention in the literature due to its role in biological processes and its therapeutic potential. It has been studied as an adjunct to conventional periodontal treatment, accordingly. This review aimed to assess the impact of HA in the treatment of periodontitis, peri-implant mucositis, and peri-implantitis. Methods: An online search was conducted using the keywords “periodontitis,” “periimplantitis,” and “peri-implant mucositis” in combination with “hyaluronic acid.” Results: Seventy (70) articles were retrieved; 23 full articles showing the effect of HA as an adjunctive therapy were assessed for suitability. Thirteen studies fully met the inclusion criteria and were included and analysed in the review. Discussion: Many studies suggest that applying HA in periodontal pockets can enhance periodontal tissue repair, contributing to improved clinical outcomes; the reported data showed that clinical attachment level, periodontal pocket depths, and bleeding on probing scores improved with HA treatment. There are insufficient studies addressing the application of HA in the treatment of peri-implant mucositis. In the context of peri-implantitis, preliminary findings suggest that HA may have potential therapeutic benefits in the adjunctive management of peri-implantitis around compromised dental implants. Conclusions: HA may have a positive effect in comparison to debridement alone on the treatment of periodontitis. Promising but modest results are seen when HA is used as an adjunct to non-surgical therapy for treating peri-implantitis and peri-implant mucositis.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a substance naturally found in the body that may help with tissue healing, inflammation, and biofilm formation. The authors of this review asked whether HA could improve treatment for periodontitis, peri-implant mucositis, and peri-implantitis when used alongside mechanical debridement. Of 70 articles identified, 13 studies met the criteria for inclusion and analysis. The findings suggest that HA may improve gum healing and reduce pocket depth, bleeding, and other signs of periodontal disease. However, there is not enough evidence to determine the effectiveness of HA in treating peri-implant mucositis. Early research suggests HA may provide some additional benefit in treating peri-implantitis, but more studies are needed.

Objectives: This scoping review provides an overview of molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH), emphasizing the critical role of dental hygienists in its management. Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify relevant studies published in English addressing the diagnosis, management, and clinical implications of MIH, along with studies focusing on dental hygienists in pediatric oral health care. Results: Ninety-one studies were retrieved from the initial search. After duplicates were removed and titles and abstracts screened, 21 articles remained for full-text analysis. Discussion: Dental hygienists are frequently the first to identify MIH and play a pivotal role in its early diagnosis, prevention, and follow-up care. Early implementation of individual preventive measures can delay restorative treatments and reduce long-term discomfort. Topical fluorides and pit and fissure sealants are key strategies for remineralization and preventing caries and fractures. The colour of MIH opacities can guide clinicians in determining appropriate recall intervals, with no intervals longer than 6 months recommended. Conclusion: The involvement of dental hygienists is essential for ensuring the oral health and well-being of children with MIH by preserving dental structure through comprehensive care.

Molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a condition that causes some children’s teeth to have weaker or damaged enamel, placing them at greater risk for dental caries. This review focused on the connection between MIH and dental hygiene practice, given that dental hygienists often identify MIH early and play an important role in its management through patient education and preventive care. Of 91 studies found, 21 were included in the review. Treatments such as fluoride and sealant applications can help strengthen the teeth, prevent caries, and reduce the risk of tooth damage. Regular dental hygiene appointments, no longer than 6 months apart, are recommended to monitor the condition.

Objective: This narrative review explores the experiences of older adults (=65 years) in maintaining daily oral self-care. It examines perceived challenges, enablers, and coping strategies to inform dental hygienists in developing person-centred, sustainable approaches to support oral hygiene in aging populations. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Embase using MeSH terms and keywords related to older adults, oral self-care, barriers, facilitators, and lived experiences. Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies published in English between 2010 and 2025 were eligible. Key findings on challenges, facilitators, and lived experiences related to oral selfcare were extracted and appraised for methodological quality. Results: Of the 24 studies initially identified, 12 met the inclusion criteria. Barriers to consistent oral hygiene included functional decline, cognitive impairment, polypharmacy, environmental limitations, and psychosocial factors, contributing to reduced oral function, greater disease burden, and lower oral health–related quality of life. Enablers included adaptive oral hygiene devices, caregiver support, tailored education, and person-centred professional guidance. Discussion: Oral self-care among older adults is influenced by multiple physical, cognitive, social, and environmental factors. Effective strategies combine individualized interventions, professional guidance, and supportive routines. Gaps in methodological transparency, longitudinal data, and diverse population representation limit generalizability and highlight the need for further research. Conclusion: Older adults’ oral self-care is shaped by interrelated factors requiring holistic, collaborative, and culturally sensitive approaches in dental hygiene practice. Strengthening the evidence base through rigorous long-term studies will support sustainable, person-centred strategies that enhance oral health and quality of life.

This review identified research on the challenges, enablers, and lived experiences that shape the daily oral hygiene behaviours of adults aged 65 and older. Of 24 studies retrieved, 12 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Reduced dexterity, cognitive changes, medications, limited access to resources, and social factors can make daily oral care more difficult for older adults. Supports, including easy-to-use oral hygiene tools, caregiver assistance, personalized education, and guidance from dental hygienists, can help. More long-term research is needed to better understand the needs of this population and develop effective strategies to improve their oral health and quality of life.

Introduction: The application of advanced neural networks has equipped the Generative Pretrained Transformer (GPT-4) with the ability to “see,” “hear,” and “speak.” This new GPT, also known as “VisionIdentify GPT,” can now detect patterns and extract meaningful information from visual data. Project description: This study explored how well VisionIdentify GPT can recognize biological images and help develop image-based teaching materials for dental and medical education. Hand-drawn biological illustrations and histological sections were used as inputs for VisionIdentify GPT. Discussion: The new GPT showed high accuracy in identifying biological illustrations. However, it was inaccurate in detecting histological sections and was unable to annotate images accurately. VisionIdentify GPT has high potential but has yet to be developed fully. Conclusions: Specialized training with discipline-specific data can enhance the mastery of this new vision-powered GPT, potentially making it a helpful tool for specialized tasks.

Introduction: Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic, immune-mediated mucocutaneous disorder with rare oral involvement in pediatric patients. Oral lichen planus (OLP), a recognized oral potentially malignant disorder, poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in children due to its rarity. Case presentation: A 16-year-old male presented with a 1-year history of burning sensation in the oral cavity, aggravated by spicy food. Intraoral examination revealed bilateral greyish-white reticular plaques with peripheral striae on the buccal mucosa and tongue. Violaceous papules on extremities and toenail trachyonychia were noted. Histopathology was consistent with OLP. The patient was treated with triamcinolone. Discussion: Reported pediatric LP cases show varied lesion patterns and age inclusion resulting in underestimation of the actual burden of the condition. Nail involvement, which is particularly rare, was noted in the present case. Conclusion: This case highlights the need for age standardization, early recognition, and longterm follow-up of pediatric LP to prevent potential complications.