Pakistan Oral & Dental Journal
type: channel
description: The oldest dental journal of Pakistan (established in 1981)
publisher: Pakistan Society for Promotion of Oral & Dental Research
language: en
publication name: Pakistan Oral & Dental Journal
issn: 1012-8700
items: FACIAL FRACTURES AND BLOOD PARAMETERS AMONG THE RESIDENTS OF PESHAWAR
items: ASSOCIATION OF PERIODONTITIS AND TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS IN PATIENTS VISITING KHYBER COLLEGE OF DENTISTRY: A CASE CONTROL STUDY
items: RECURRENCE OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT ANKYLOSIS IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS: A SINGLE-CENTER EXPERIENCE FROM PAKISTAN
items: ASSOCIATION BETWEEN ANXIETY LEVELS AND COPING STRATEGIES AMONG UNDERGRADUATE DENTAL STUDENTS IN KARACHI: AN ANALYTICAL CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
items: A CBCT-BASED STUDY ON THE OCCURRENCE AND ANATOMICAL VARIATIONS OF C-SHAPED CANALS IN LOWER SECOND MOLARS
items: Artificial Intelligence and the Integrity of Scientific Writing
items: PUBLICATION ETHICS AND PUBLICATION MALPRACTICE STATEMENT
items: International Committee of Medical Journals Editors (ICMJE) - Who is an Author?
items: Article Submission Check List
items: Reporting Guidelines for Authors
items: Authors Guidelines
items: EFFECTS OF THREE DIFFERENT LIGHTING CONDITIONS ON THE OUTCOME OF VISUAL TOOTH SHADE SELECTION USING THE VITAPAN CLASSICAL SHADE GUIDE
items: IMPACT OF DIAZEPAM ON PAIN PERCEPTION AND MOUTH OPENING IN PATIENTS WITH TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISORDERS: A QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL STUDY
items: ASSESSING THE NEED FOR INTEGRATION OF PERIODONTAL-SYSTEMIC DISEASE EDUCATION AMONG MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS; A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN LAHORE
items: POSTURE, PRACTICE, AND PAIN: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY ON MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONG DENTISTS AND DENTAL ASSISTANTS IN ISLAMABAD
items: THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN MATERNAL LITERACY AND CHILD ORAL HEALTH: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
items: Culture of Science and Clinical Excellence
items: Analogue to digital dentistry, Human to Artificial Intelligence & Open access
items: Article Submisssion Check List
items: EXPLORING PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY FORMATION AMONG EARLY-CAREER DENTISTS: A QUALITATIVE MULTI-INSTITUTIONAL STUDY
items: PREVALENCE AND DETERMINANTS OF DRY SOCKET IN DIABETIC PATIENTS UNDERGOING TOOTH EXTRACTION: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
items: EXPLORING SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN MEDICAL AND DENTAL EDUCATION: A MULTICENTER ANALYSIS OF FACULTY PERSPECTIVES
items: COMPARISON BETWEEN PERIODONTAL DISEASE DIAGNOSTIC PERFOMANCE OF GENERAL DENTAL PRACTITIONERS AND AN AI TOOL (EBHnow)
items: RELIABILITY OF DOLPHIN CEPHALOMETRIC IMAGING SOFTWARE BY OBSERVERS WITH DIFFERENT LEVELS OF EXPERIENCE
items: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECT OF MODELING AGENTS ON THE SURFACE PROPERTIES OF AESTHETIC NANO-HYBRID
items: Publication Ethics and Publication Malpractice Statement
items: PERCEPTION OF THE MIDLINE DEVIATIONS IN SMILE ESTHETICS BY LAYPERSON

FACIAL FRACTURES AND BLOOD PARAMETERS AMONG THE RESIDENTS OF PESHAWAR
type: item
description: Objective: The aim of this research was to examine the occurrence of facial fractures, their main causes, and the concentrations of calcium and vitamin D in the population of Peshawar. Methodology: This Prospective analytical study was conducted from April 2024 to March 2025 by the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) department of Peshawar Dental College (PDC), Peshawar. A total of 90 participants were selected for the study based on the established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients' data were collected using a pre-designed and pre-tested Performa. Blood samples of six milliliters were obtained from each patient. The concentrations of calcium and vitamin D were as- sessed utilizing established laboratory methods. Fundamental statistical techniques were utilized to analyze the data. Results: The gender ratio in the current study was 2:1. Individuals under 40 had a higher frequency of facial fractures (63%). Among fractures, single-bone fractures were the most common, found in 68.9% of subjects, followed by multiple fractures (20%) and associated fractures (11.1%). The nasal bone sustained the highest number of fractures (48.3 %), followed by the mandible (46.7 %), zygoma (30.0%), frontal bone (21.7 %), and maxilla (18.3 %). The primary cause of facial fractures was road traffic accidents, accounting for 58 cases, followed by falls, which resulted in 43 cases. Animal attacks were the least frequent cause, with 09 cases reported. A calcium level ranging from 7.7 mg/dl to 10.6 mg/dl was identified. The vitamin D level was below the normal range in 64% of females and 42% of males. The occupations, academic credentials, and body mass indices did not affect the outcomes (p >0.05). Conclusion: Blood calcium and vitamin D levels should be monitored regularly. Enforcing stringent safety regulations while driving and providing safer workplace facilities could help reduce the issue. Further investigation with larger groups from diverse communities is essential to con…
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Facial bone fractures
  topic: keywords
subject: Blood Biochemical analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Peshawar
  topic: keywords
creator: Awais Hassan Khan
creator: Syed Amjad Shah
creator: Muhammad Younas
creator: Bilal Hassan Khan
creator: Dania Hassan
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Awais Hassan Khan, Syed Amjad Shah, Muhammad Younas, Bilal Hassan Khan, Dania Hassan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-06-25
publication date: 2026-06-25
starting page: 27
ending page: 31

ASSOCIATION OF PERIODONTITIS AND TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS IN PATIENTS VISITING KHYBER COLLEGE OF DENTISTRY: A CASE CONTROL STUDY
type: item
description: Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the association between periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among adult patients visiting the outpatient department of Khyber College of Dentistry (KCD), Peshawar, and to investigate the relationship between glycemic control, duration, and intensity of periodontitis. Methodology: This case-control study was carried out at Khyber College of Dentistry (KCD) KCD, Peshawar, from November 2024 to January 2025. The study sample consisted of 100 participants, which included 50 patients diagnosed with periodontitis. (cases) and 50 non-periodontitis individuals (controls), aged >=30 years. Periodontal examination was performed to assess probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) of the index teeth. Glycemic control was evaluated using fasting blood glucose levels and HbA1c levels. Analysis was performed by SPSS (22). Logistic regression was applied to assess the association between periodontal parameters & T2DM, controlling for age, gender, and brushing frequency as confounders. Results: Periodontitis cases exhibited a significantly higher frequency of T2DM than non-periodontitis controls (p < 0.001). A significant positive relationship was observed between increasing HbA1c levels and periodontal destruction. Participants with poor glycemic control (HbA1c >= 8%) had markedly higher PPD and CAL values than those with better glycemic control. Participants with poor glycemic control (HbA1c >= 8%) had markedly higher PPD and CAL values than those with better glycemic control. Furthermore, a longer disease duration of diabetes mellitus (>=10 years) was associated with more severe periodontal breakdown. Analysis using logistic regression indicated that T2DM was statistically significantly associated with periodontitis. An adjusted odds ratio of 2.45 with a 95% confidence interval ranging from 1.28 to 4.70. Conclusion: The present study confirms a statistically significant relationship between periodontitis an…
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Periodontitis
  topic: keywords
subject: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
  topic: keywords
subject: HbA1c
  topic: keywords
subject: Glycemic Control
  topic: keywords
subject: Clinical Attachment Loss
  topic: keywords
subject: Probing Pocket Depth
  topic: keywords
creator: Shazia Liaquat
creator: Aliya Khan
creator: Aleena Malik
creator: Sania Ali Malik
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Shazia Liaquat, Aliya Khan, Aleena Malik, Sania Ali Malik https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-06-25
publication date: 2026-06-25
starting page: 21
ending page: 26

RECURRENCE OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT ANKYLOSIS IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS: A SINGLE-CENTER EXPERIENCE FROM PAKISTAN
type: item
description: Objective: To determine the frequency of recurrence in Sawhney type 3 temporomandibular joint ankylosis treated with lateral gap arthroplasty in pediatric patients. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department of Mardan Medical Complex from March to August 2022. A total of 238 patients diagnosed with Sawhney type III unilateral or bilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis, aged 3–15 years and of either gender, were enrolled. All patients were treated using conservative lateral gap arthroplasty. The frequency of recurrence at 6 months, post-lateral gap arthroplasty in patients with Sawhney type III TMJ ankylosis was determined. Results: Among 238 patients, there were 110 (46.1%) males and 128 (53.8%) females, with a mean age of 9.21±3.58 years. The recurrence rate of Sawhney type III temporomandibular joint ankylosis was reported to be 16.8%, with 40 of 238 patients presenting with recurrence at 6-month follow-up. Conclusion: There is a moderately high frequency of recurrence (16.8%) found in the local pediatric population in Pakistan at 6 months post-procedure. Appropriate measures are needed to prevent recurrence of Sawhney type III temporomandibular joint ankylosis after conventional gap arthroplasty and to improve health outcomes.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Ankylosis
  topic: keywords
subject: Temporomandibular Joint
  topic: keywords
subject: Gap Arthroplasty
  topic: keywords
subject: recurrence
  topic: keywords
subject: pediatrics
  topic: keywords
creator: Alaf Khan
creator: Abdul Rauf
creator: Omer Bashir
creator: Syeda Rabia Rahat Geelani
creator: Tariq Sardar
creator: Kaleem Ullah
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-06-25
publication date: 2026-06-25
starting page: 17
ending page: 20

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN ANXIETY LEVELS AND COPING STRATEGIES AMONG UNDERGRADUATE DENTAL STUDENTS IN KARACHI: AN ANALYTICAL CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
type: item
description: Objective: To examine the association between coping style (predominantly maladaptive vs adaptive) and anxiety levels among undergraduate dental students in Karachi, Pakistan. Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted at Jinnah Medical and Dental College (JMDC), Karachi. Anxiety was assessed using Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7; 0-21) and coping using a 19-item adaptation of the Brief-COPE (1-4). Domain means were computed, and “predominantly maladaptive” coping was defined as maladaptive mean > adaptive mean. Logistic regression modeled maladaptive coping on GAD-7 score; ordinal logistic regression modeled GAD-7 category on coping style using robust standard errors. Complete-case analyses included n=168 (total n=175). Results: Mean age was 21.31 ± 1.82 years; 37.7% reported predominantly maladaptive coping. The largest ethnic groups were Urdu-speaking (36.1%) and Sindhi (21.9%). Each 1-point increase in GAD-7 score was associated with higher odds of maladaptive coping (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.02-1.15; p=0.0067), equivalent to OR 1.54 per 5-point increase. Predominantly maladaptive coping was associated with higher odds of a higher anxiety category (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.25-3.80; p=0.006). Conclusion: Predominantly maladaptive coping was associated with higher anxiety among undergraduate dental students.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Anxiety
  topic: keywords
subject: Coping mechanisms
  topic: keywords
subject: Students
  topic: keywords
subject: dental
  topic: keywords
creator: Sadia Tabassum
creator: Marium Iqbal
creator: Esha Noor
creator: Fatima Arshad
creator: Osha Sudhamchand
creator: Payal Amar Lal
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-06-25
publication date: 2026-06-25
starting page: 10
ending page: 16

A CBCT-BASED STUDY ON THE OCCURRENCE AND ANATOMICAL VARIATIONS OF C-SHAPED CANALS IN LOWER SECOND MOLARS
type: item
description: Objective: This study aims to determine the prevalence and anatomical characteristics of C-shaped canal configurations in mandibular second molars using cone-beam computed tomography in a Pakistani population. Methodology: This CBCT-based cross-sectional study was conducted using scans obtained from patients presenting to dental imaging center. Mandibular second molars were evaluated for the presence of C-shaped canal configurations. Morphological parameters were assessed, and data were analyzed descriptively. Results: Out of the evaluated mandibular second molars, 58 teeth exhibited a C-shaped canal configuration, yielding a prevalence of 26.36%. Bilateral occurrence was observed in 89.7% of cases. Radiographically, all teeth demonstrated fused roots. The C3 configuration was the most prevalent canal pattern. The mean total tooth length was 17.93 ± 2.20 mm. Longitudinal grooves were present on both buccal and lingual surfaces in 29.3% of cases, with the mean lingual groove length exceeding the buccal groove length. A long root trunk was observed in 24.1% of teeth, with a mean trunk length of 2.9 ± 0.5 mm. The mean thinnest dentin thickness was 1.39 ± 0.54 mm, most frequently located on the buccal surface. Conclusion: C-shaped canal configurations in mandibular second molars were relatively common in the studied population, with a high rate of bilateral occurrence and considerable anatomical complexity. CBCT proved to be a valuable tool for detailed assessment of canal morphology, emphasizing the importance of careful preoperative evaluation to minimize procedural complications during endodontic treatment.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: C-shaped canal
  topic: keywords
subject: Mandibular second molars
  topic: keywords
subject: Cone-beam computed tomography
  topic: keywords
subject: Root trunk
  topic: keywords
subject: Dentin thickness
  topic: keywords
creator: Yumna Abrar
creator: Nadia Aman
creator: Fizza Sherazi
creator: Umar Hameed
creator: Hameed Ullah Jan
creator: Maaz Rasul Qureshi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-06-25
publication date: 2026-06-25
starting page: 5
ending page: 9

Artificial Intelligence and the Integrity of Scientific Writing
type: item
description: Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming biomedical writing. Yet biomedical writing has a responsibility that extends beyond style and speed. It must communicate accurate, original, and ethically sound knowledge. As AI tools become more common in scientific publishing, the main challenge is not whether to use them, but how to use them without compromising academic integrity. The central issue is that AI may assist with writing, but it cannot replace human judgment, accountability, or scientific honesty. AI is rapidly transforming scientific writing by improving efficiency, enhancing language quality, and supporting evidence synthesis. As the volume of biomedical literature continues to grow, researchers increasingly rely on AI tools to draft manuscripts, organize references, and summarize complex information. While these technologies offer substantial advantages, they also raise important concerns about the integrity, transparency, and accountability of scientific writing. 1
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-06-25
publication date: 2026-06-25
starting page: 3
ending page: 4

PUBLICATION ETHICS AND PUBLICATION MALPRACTICE STATEMENT
type: item
subject: Miscellaneous
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: vii
ending page: viii

International Committee of Medical Journals Editors (ICMJE) - Who is an Author?
type: item
subject: Miscellaneous
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: vi
ending page: vi

Article Submission Check List
type: item
subject: Miscellaneous
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: v
ending page: v

Reporting Guidelines for Authors
type: item
subject: Miscellaneous
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: iv
ending page: iv

Authors Guidelines
type: item
subject: Miscellaneous
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: i
ending page: iii

EFFECTS OF THREE DIFFERENT LIGHTING CONDITIONS ON THE OUTCOME OF VISUAL TOOTH SHADE SELECTION USING THE VITAPAN CLASSICAL SHADE GUIDE
type: item
description: Objective: To evaluate the frequency of correct shade selections under three different lighting conditions using the Vitapan Classical shade guide among undergraduate dental students. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Foundation University College of Dentistry (FUCD), from October 2024 to March 2025. Visual shade matching was carried out using a standard shade selection protocol to match a masked A3 shade tab to reference tabs under three different lighting conditions- natural daylight, standard operatory light, and color-corrected artificial light. A two-week interval was given between each trial. Shade agreement and selection time were measured. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Chi-square test and the Kruskal-Wallis test, with significance set at P < 0.05. Results: A total of 95 dental students participated in the study, with a mean age of 25.06 ± 2.7 years. Among the participants, 31 (32.63%) were male and 64 (67.37%) were female. Shade agreement significantly varied with the type of light condition, with maximum accuracy under color-corrected light (62.11%), followed by natural sunlight (45.26%) and dental operatory light (32.63%) (p < 0.001). Time spent in shade selection was considerably less under color-corrected light (median = 28s) than natural sunlight (35s) and operatory light (37s) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Color-corrected lighting significantly improves shade-matching accuracy and efficiency compared with natural daylight or operatory light.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Lighting conditions
  topic: keywords
subject: Tooth shade selection
  topic: keywords
subject: Vitapan Classical shade guide
  topic: keywords
creator: Ayesha Mehak Saeed
creator: Salman Ahmad
creator: Sana Afzal
creator: Huda Khalid
creator: Aima Riaz
creator: Fatima Rafiq
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: 33
ending page: 37

IMPACT OF DIAZEPAM ON PAIN PERCEPTION AND MOUTH OPENING IN PATIENTS WITH TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISORDERS: A QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL STUDY
type: item
description: Objective: To identify the effectiveness of muscle relaxant (once daily Diazepam 5 mg) on mouth opening and pain perception in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) reporting to the Maxillofacial OPD of Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad. Methodology: This study was conducted in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad; during a duration of 6 months from January to June 2025. A total of 60 clinically diagnosed temporomandibular disorder patients were enrolled through non-probability consecutive sampling. Baseline intensity of pain was assessed with the help of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and mouth opening was measured in millimeters with the help of a vernier caliper. Diazepam 5 mg was given orally once daily to the patients for 7 days. Post-treatment measurement of pain and mouth opening was recorded. Data were computed with SPSS version 20. Results: The pre-treatment median pain score was 7 (IQR: 1), which decrease significantly to 4 (IQR: 1.25) after treatment (p < 0.001). Likewise, the median mouth opening increased from 38 mm (IQR: 3) to 41.5 mm (IQR: 2) after treatment (p < 0.001). No statistically significant correlation was identified between gender, education, or income level and baseline pain or mouth opening. Conclusion: Diazepam was found to produce significant pain relief and increased mouth opening in the TMD patients within a brief treatment period. It can be regarded as an important pharmacologic treatment for muscular TMD in outpatients.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Diazepam
  topic: keywords
subject: Pain Perception
  topic: keywords
subject: Mandibular Function
  topic: keywords
subject: Muscle Relaxants
  topic: keywords
subject: Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
  topic: keywords
creator: Sidra Qadir
creator: Ammara Saleem
creator: Khurshid Alam
creator: Aqsa Munir
creator: Bakhtawer Aziz
creator: Jannat ul Mawa
creator: Maryam Jadoon
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: 27
ending page: 32

ASSESSING THE NEED FOR INTEGRATION OF PERIODONTAL-SYSTEMIC DISEASE EDUCATION AMONG MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS; A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN LAHORE
type: item
description: Objective: Periodontal disease is linked to systemic health, yet knowledge gaps remain among medical practitioners. This study assessed practitioners’ awareness, knowledge, and clinical practices regarding these associations. Methodology: A cross-sectional questionnaire was administered to 101 medical practitioners, exploring awareness of periodontal–systemic links, clinical practices, training, and attitudes toward interdisciplinary care. Results: 86.1% acknowledged periodontal disease impacts systemic health. Although 82% practitioners knew the link between diabetes and periodontal disease, fewer than half recognized links with cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, respiratory illness, or adverse pregnancy outcomes. Only 34.7% routinely assessed oral health and 36.6% discussed systemic implications. Confidence in identifying oral issues was reported by 40.6%, while 81.2% lacked formal training and 68.4% lacked access to guidelines. Despite this, 94.1% expressed willingness to pursue training and 88.1% would implement new knowledge. Conclusion: Practitioners show good baseline awareness but limited clinical integration and institutional support. Strong interest in training highlights the need to embed oral–systemic health into medical curricula and continuing education to enhance interdisciplinary care.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Periodontal disease
  topic: keywords
subject: Systemic health
  topic: keywords
subject: medical practitioners
  topic: keywords
subject: Awareness
  topic: keywords
subject: Clinical practice
  topic: keywords
subject: Oral-systemic link
  topic: keywords
subject: Interdisciplinary training
  topic: keywords
creator: Mariam Mahmood
creator: Mehreen Khaliq
creator: Hafsa Qayyum
creator: Amina Anis
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: 20
ending page: 26

POSTURE, PRACTICE, AND PAIN: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY ON MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONG DENTISTS AND DENTAL ASSISTANTS IN ISLAMABAD
type: item
description: Objective: To estimate MSD prevalence across anatomical regions and identify occupational and demographic predictors. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 203 participants (149 dentists, 54 DAs) from dental teaching hospitals. MSDs were assessed using the Modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and logistic regression identified predictors. Binary logistic regression was employed to assess the association between MSDs in various body parts and different demographic variables at 5% level of significance. Results: Dentists most frequently reported neck (72.5%), shoulder (56.4%), and lower back pain (55.7%), while DAs had more wrist (44.4%) and lower limb complaints. Neck pain was less likely in female dentists (OR = 0.225, p = .027). Shoulder pain was associated with older age (OR = 1.225, p = .013) and right-hand dominance (OR = 48.446, p = .007). Wrist pain was linked to males (female OR = 0.131, p = .002), older age (OR = 1.159, p = .042), hospital practice (OR = 0.020, p = .010), and seated posture (OR = 5.821, p = .005). Lower back pain was predicted by prior injury (OR = 24.026, p = .023), whereas >5 hours non-chairside work was protective (OR = 0.032, p = .012). Longer experience reduced knee (OR = 0.003, p = .019) and ankle pain (OR = 0.001, p = .007), while 4–8 chairside hours increased knee risk (OR = 31.362, p = .002). Among DAs, wrist pain was more likely with prior injury. Conclusion: MSDs are widespread among dental professionals, with distinct patterns between dentists and DAs. Ergonomic interventions, workload management, and preventive strategies are essential to reduce long-term occupational risks.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Musculoskeletal Diseases
  topic: keywords
subject: Dentists
  topic: keywords
subject: Dental assistants
  topic: keywords
subject: Ergonomics
  topic: keywords
subject: Occupational Health
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Abu Bakar
creator: Saba Masoud
creator: Ali Sajid
creator: Zahra Ajaz
creator: Kiran Saba
creator: Syed Muhammad Abul Hasan Ali
creator: Kanwal Shehzadi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: 11
ending page: 19

THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN MATERNAL LITERACY AND CHILD ORAL HEALTH: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
type: item
description: Objective: To assess whether maternal education level predicts key child oral health behaviors and outcomes using logistic regression analysis. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving mothers of pre-school aged children across different schools in Karachi, Pakistan. Data was collected on following oral health indicators: knowledge about dental caries, brushing frequency, brushing supervision, dental visits in the past year, use of fluoride toothpaste and bedtime oral hygiene. Maternal hygiene was categorized into four levels and analyzed as an ordinal predictor. Chi-square was used to test associations and logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate predictive strength. Results: Maternal education was significantly associated with six of seven oral health outcomes. Logistic regression analysis revealed that higher maternal education predicted higher odds of brushing supervision, dental visits, fluoride toothpaste use and bedtime oral hygiene. Brushing frequency showed a positive trend but was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Maternal education and awareness are strong predictors of child oral health behaviors and habits. These findings indicate the need for public health interventions that incorporate maternal education and tailored oral health education to promote improvements in pediatric dental health.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Child Oral Health
  topic: keywords
subject: Dental Caries
  topic: keywords
subject: Fluoride Toothpaste
  topic: keywords
subject: Maternal Education
  topic: keywords
subject: Oral Health
  topic: keywords
subject: Toothbrushing Habits
  topic: keywords
creator: Haifa Saquib Baqai
creator: Ayesha Basit
creator: Umer Khayyam
creator: Mehwish Urooj
creator: khalil Ahmed
creator: Marjan Alam
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: 4
ending page: 10

Culture of Science and Clinical Excellence
type: item
description: search- based education, and evidence-based clinical practices within dental education and professional environments. It reflects how the dental profession values critical thinking, technological advancements, and multidisciplinary approaches to improve both education and patient care1. Though this understanding is a widely accepted premise today, there was a well-recognized absence of a culture of science in dental education three decades ago2. There has been an exponential growth of scientific innovations and technological advances over the past years in dental field. Within the sphere of contribution of biological and digital revolutions have greatly affected dental education and daily clinical practice, biomimetics, personalized dental medicine regenerative dentistry, nanotechnology to name a few. Moreover, high-end simulations creating a unique virtual reality, acquiring of detailed genomic information, and further stem cell studies are moving dentistry to a different dimension1.
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-11-27
publication date: 2025-11-27
starting page: 3
ending page: 3

Analogue to digital dentistry, Human to Artificial Intelligence & Open access
type: item
description: Welcome to the 45th year of Pakistan Oral and Dental Journal. The journal’s journey is guided through the vision, dedication, perseverance and unparalleled leadership of Prof. Dr. Ahmad Iqbal, the founder of the journal, who has decided to retire. Hats off to him (I salute him on behalf of the editorial board members). During the past over four decades, the journal has witnessed ever-expanding world of sciences. It has been dissipating available contents at its disposal to Pakistani and international readership audience. The achievements and impact of the journal are numerous; I will confine myself to only one at the moment. The untold and unacknowledged achievement of the journal is that it helped many “academicsâ€ to be positioned in universities around the globe. Hopefully, they remain in gratitude and recognition to the vision of Prof. Iqbal and the journal. Throughout the numerous obstacles and uncertainties, he kept the journal alive. He contributed to serving the profession not only as a mentor, but a visionary leader full of passion and a sense of responsibility. Above all, his self-less demeanor made him a very special member of our dental fraternity. His leadership was not void of criticism, which he faced with humbleness and wisdom. May Allah SWT bless him long, healthy, happy retired life and reward him with His eternal bounties.
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
subject: Editorial
  topic: keywords
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Khalid Almas
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
starting page: 3
ending page: 3

Authors Guidelines
type: item
subject: Miscellaneous
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Khalid Almas
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
starting page: v
ending page: vii

PUBLICATION ETHICS AND PUBLICATION MALPRACTICE STATEMENT
type: item
subject: Miscellaneous
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Khalid Almas
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
starting page: iii
ending page: iv

International Committee of Medical Journals Editors (ICMJE) - Who is an Author?
type: item
subject: Miscellaneous
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Khalid Almas
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
starting page: ii
ending page: ii

Article Submisssion Check List
type: item
subject: Miscellaneous
  topic: section
creator: Khalid Almas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Khalid Almas
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
starting page: i
ending page: i

EXPLORING PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY FORMATION AMONG EARLY-CAREER DENTISTS: A QUALITATIVE MULTI-INSTITUTIONAL STUDY
type: item
description: Objective: Professional identity is defined as “the individual’s developing and continuing construction of oneself within the context of one’s profession and the ongoing communication of this to others.â€ Professional identity formation (PIF) in dentistry is relatively underexplored in the Pakistani context. The unique socio-cultural and educational systems in the country present specific challenges and opportunities for developing professional identity. While PIF has been studied in other disciplines in Pakistan, empirical evidence regarding its development among young dentists remains limited. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the experiences and perceptions of early-career dentists from various institutions in South Punjab. Methodology: This qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach. Data were collected through purposive sampling using a semi-structured interview guide. Participants were licensed dentists practising in South Punjab. Interviews explored factors influencing PIF. Thematic analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework, applying inductive coding to identify themes and subthemes. Results: Four major themes and 21 subthemes emerged. Participants described milestones crucial to PIF, while also highlighting challenges such as limited resources, delayed clinical exposure, job scarcity, heavy workloads, and lack of recognition. Key facilitators included mentorship, patient satisfaction, task accomplishment, and institutional support. Recommendations included integrating undergraduate research, interprofessional collaboration, structured mentorship, and continuous development opportunities. Conclusion: The study identified key contextual factors affecting PIF among early-career dentists. Supporting identity formation during this phase may enhance professionalism, job satisfaction, and patient care. Institutional efforts to address barriers and promote facilitators are essential to fostering professional growth.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Professional Identity
  topic: keywords
subject: Qualitative Research
  topic: keywords
subject: Phenomenology
  topic: keywords
subject: Dental Education
  topic: keywords
subject: mentorship
  topic: keywords
subject: socialization
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Malik Zain Ul Abideen
creator: Gul Muhammad Sheikh
creator: Saad M. Al Zubaidi
creator: Qasim Saleem
creator: Rabia Ashraf
creator: Fizzah Ali
creator: Ammar Ahmed Siddiqui
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Malik Zain Ul Abideen, Gul Muhammad Sheikh, Saad M. Al Zubaidi, Qasim Saleem, Rabia Ashraf, Fizzah Ali, Ammar Ahmed Siddiqui
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
starting page: 33
ending page: 40

PREVALENCE AND DETERMINANTS OF DRY SOCKET IN DIABETIC PATIENTS UNDERGOING TOOTH EXTRACTION: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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description: Objective: To determine the prevalence of dry socket in diabetic patients and its associated risk factors. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Foundation University College of Dentistry & Hospital (FUCD&H), Islamabad, from March to September 2024. A total of 499 diabetic patients who underwent tooth extractions were included. Data was collected for gender, age, number of visits, type of extraction, endodontic status, smoking history, physician’s experience, and blood sugar levels (BSR) at extraction. Statistical analyses, including chi-square and t-tests, were conducted to determine associations between these factors and dry socket occurrence. Results: Out of 499 diabetic patients, 83 (16.6%) developed dry socket. The condition occurred more frequently in females (88%) than males (12%). Most patients with dry socket had two visits (83.1%). Dry socket was more common in non-surgical extractions (92.8%) than surgical (7.2%). Most cases (79.5%) were treated by students, with significantly fewer in patients treated by senior doctors, indicating the impact of operator experience. Non-root canal treated teeth had a higher incidence (89.2%). A significant association was found with smoking, as 36.1% of smokers developed dry socket. The mean BSR (Blood sugar random test levels) for affected patients was 188.42mg/dl. Conclusion: The prevalence of dry socket in diabetic patients was significantly associated with the number of dental visits, smoking history, physician’s experience, and elevated blood sugar levels. These findings emphasize managing blood sugar and smoking cessation to reduce dry socket risk in diabetic patients.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Dry Socket
  topic: keywords
subject: Smoking
  topic: keywords
subject: Tooth extraction
  topic: keywords
subject: Diabetes
  topic: keywords
creator: Muhammad Nawfal Sahi
creator: Arooj Aslam
creator: Maidah Hanif
creator: Fatima Ather
creator: Zain Bin Iftikhar
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Nawfal Sahi, Arooj Aslam, Maidah Hanif, Fatima Ather, Zain Bin Iftikhar
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
starting page: 26
ending page: 32

EXPLORING SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN MEDICAL AND DENTAL EDUCATION: A MULTICENTER ANALYSIS OF FACULTY PERSPECTIVES
type: item
description: Objective: Social responsibility (SR) is the ethical obligation of healthcare institutions and professionals to contribute to the well-being of communities by addressing health disparities, promoting equity, and responding to social determinants of health. This study explores the current practices, challenges, and opportunities for SR integration in medical and dental education in South Punjab, Pakistan. Methodology: A qualitative exploratory design using a constructivist paradigm was adopted. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 23 Heads of Departments from four PMDC-recognized public and private sector institutions. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data were transcribed, validated through member checking, and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s sixstep inductive thematic analysis. Results: Four major themes emerged 1) Awareness and Understanding: Faculty exhibited limited conceptual clarity and training related to SR. 2) Institutional Practices: Participants reported inadequate policies, weak cultural competency training, and limited structured programs. 3) Challenges and Barriers: Identified issues included resource scarcity, minimal institutional support, and lack of engagement. 4) Recommendations: Suggestions included policy development, capacity building, community partnerships, and evaluation mechanisms. Conclusion: Despite a growing recognition of SR, institutional gaps hinder its integration. Clear regulatory guidance, structured training, and resource allocation are essential to embed SR into the educational fabric and foster community-responsive healthcare professionals.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Dental and medical Education
  topic: keywords
subject: Faculty
  topic: keywords
subject: Health Equity
  topic: keywords
subject: Health Policy
  topic: keywords
subject: Healthcare Disparities
  topic: keywords
subject: Leadership
  topic: keywords
subject: Resource Allocation
  topic: keywords
subject: Social Responsibility
  topic: keywords
subject: Social accountability
  topic: keywords
creator: Malik Zain Ul Abideen
creator: Gul Muhammad Sheikh
creator: Asma Malik
creator: Azeem Khan
creator: Qurat Ul Ain Mehfooz
creator: Jia Fatima
creator: Ammar Ahmed Siddiqui
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Malik Zain Ul Abideen, Gul Muhammad Sheikh, Asma Malik, Azeem Khan, Qurat Ul Ain Mehfooz, Jia Fatima, Ammar Ahmed Siddiqui
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
starting page: 18
ending page: 25

COMPARISON BETWEEN PERIODONTAL DISEASE DIAGNOSTIC PERFOMANCE OF GENERAL DENTAL PRACTITIONERS AND AN AI TOOL (EBHnow)
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description: Objective: To compare the periodontal disease diagnostic performance between general dental practitioners and an AI tool (EBHnow). Methodology: This comparative observational study was conducted in Islamabad from October 2023 to August 2024 with a sample of 100 general dental practitioners. General dental practitioners working in private dental clinics of Islamabad were included through cluster sampling. Four standard periodontal disease cases accompanied with radiographs and brief clinical histories were used to evaluate and compare the diagnostic performance between the general dental practitioners and EBHnow. Data analysis was done using SPSS 26 and summarized through descriptive statistics including frequencies and percentages. McNemar test and chi-square analysis, were applied to assess diagnostic agreement and associations. Results: Out of the 100 participating general dental practitioners, only 42% made the correct diagnosis. The highest diagnostic accuracy among general dental practitioners (66.7%) observed for the highest confidence level (5) in contrast, the lowest accuracy (23.1%) was observed for confidence level 2. McNemar test revealed statistically significant difference between the diagnosis made by the dentist and EBHnow across all four cases (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study concluded that the periodontal disease diagnostic accuracy of the AI tool EBHnow was higher compared to general dental practitioners.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: periodontal EBHnow software
  topic: keywords
subject: 2018 Periodontal disease classification
  topic: keywords
subject: Diagnostic accuracy
  topic: keywords
subject: gingivitis
  topic: keywords
subject: periodontitis
  topic: keywords
subject: artificial intelligence
  topic: keywords
creator: Muhammad Aala Malik
creator: Hajra Shahid
creator: Sheze Haroon
creator: Hamdia Yumun
creator: Naveeda Farooq
creator: Hina Mahmood
creator: Fatima Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Aala Malik, Hajra Shahid, Sheze Haroon, Hamdia Yumun, Naveeda Farooq, Hina Mahmood, Fatima Khan
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
starting page: 11
ending page: 17

RELIABILITY OF DOLPHIN CEPHALOMETRIC IMAGING SOFTWARE BY OBSERVERS WITH DIFFERENT LEVELS OF EXPERIENCE
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description: Objective: This study aimed to investigate the reliability of Dolphin Imaging Software (Version 11.95) for experienced and new users. Methodology: A prospective cross-sectional study was designed involving the identification of 16 cephalometric landmarks by three observers on 28 lateral cephalograms using Dolphin Imaging Software (DIS). One of these observers was novice, and the other two observers were well-experienced in using the DIS. Consequently, three linear and six angular cephalometric measurements were derived by the software. To determine intra-observer differences, six (20% of total sample size) radiographs were re-digitized after two weeks of the first recording. Both the inter-observer and intra-observer reliabilities were determined via Interclass Correlation Coefficient (ICc) and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) respectively using SPSS version 27.0. Results: The ICc values signified a strong correlation among the experienced and new users. Conclusion: Dolphin Imaging Software (version 11.95) showed an excellent agreement among different observers with a distinctive range of proficiencies.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Digital Cephalometry
  topic: keywords
subject: Reliability
  topic: keywords
subject: Dolphin Imaging Software
  topic: keywords
creator: Mariam Khalid Mahmood
creator: Urva Ameen
creator: Shifat A. Nowrin
creator: Fazal Shahid
creator: Anwar Ali Shah
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Mariam Khalid Mahmood, Urva Ameen, Shifat A. Nowrin, Fazal Shahid, Anwar Ali Shah
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
starting page: 4
ending page: 10

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECT OF MODELING AGENTS ON THE SURFACE PROPERTIES OF AESTHETIC NANO-HYBRID
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description: Objective: Resin-Based Composite is one of the most widely used direct restorations in modern dentistry. However, it has its own drawbacks as its stickiness to the dental instrument upon packing which results in some difficulties when handling, therefore some clinicians resort to the use of some agents to ease the handling of the composite. However, this practice raises the question of how such agents can affect the restoration's physical properties. Aim: This in vitro study aims to assess the effect of different modeling agents on the Nano-hybrid Resin Composite, specifically the restoration's color change and microhardness. Materials and Methods: The study involved 45 Nanohybrid Resin-based Composite blocks divided into 3 groups with 15 blocks in each. First group was a control group consisting of only composite, meanwhile the second and third groups were subjected to a Modeling Liquid and a Universal adhesive respectively, then all three groups were light cured, immersed in colored media and kept in a container for 1 week. Color change and Microhardness of the cured blocks were measured before and after there immersion into the colored media. Results: Results have shown statistically significant difference among the values of color change and microhardness within the three groups. Conclusion: Modeling agent use might negatively affect the microhardness and color stability of the Nano-hybrid Resin-Based Composite depending on the type of the modeling agent itself. Clinical implications: Based on our findings, it is advised for the clinicians to be more cautious about the use of different agents on Composite, with extra care to be taken when selecting the type of the modeling agent to be used.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Nano-hybrid composite
  topic: keywords
subject: modeling agent
  topic: keywords
subject: microhardness
  topic: keywords
subject: color change
  topic: keywords
creator: Mayyadah Almozainy
creator: Zain Hafiz
creator: Abdulelah Alqahtani
creator: Abdulrahman Alqublan
creator: Faris Alghamdi
creator: Fahad Alsayyari
creator: Manal Almutairi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Mayyadah Almozainy, Zain Hafiz, Abdulelah Alqahtani, Abdulrahman Alqublan, Faris Alghamdi, Fahad Alsayyari, Manal Almutairi
date: 2025-01-10
publication date: 2025-01-10
starting page: 47
ending page: 52

Publication Ethics and Publication Malpractice Statement
type: item
subject: Miscellaneous
  topic: section
creator: Ahmad Iqbal
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Ahmad Iqbal
date: 2025-01-10
publication date: 2025-01-10
starting page: iii
ending page: iv

PERCEPTION OF THE MIDLINE DEVIATIONS IN SMILE ESTHETICS BY LAYPERSON
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description: Objective: This study aimed to assess laypersons' perception of upper dental midline deviations and explore how viewing adjacent facial structures, including lips, chin, and nose, influences the diagnosis of such deviations. Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study involving 100 patients was conducted using a non-probability consecutive sampling technique. Participants meeting inclusion criteria (age 18 years or older, no prior orthodontic treatment, normal or corrected-to-normal vision) provided written informed consent. Patients with craniofacial anomalies, severe dental malocclusions, ongoing orthodontic treatment, psychological disorders affecting self-perception, and personals having professional training in dentistry were excluded from the study. Photographs of a female subject with digitally manipulated upper dental midline deviations (0mm to 5mm) were categorized into two groups. one with adjacent facial structures (LCN) and one with lips only (L). Layperson evaluators assessed aesthetic appeal using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Results: Among 100 participants (mean age 31.41 ± 8.01 years; 40% female), perception scores decreased significantly with increasing midline deviation (p < 0.001). One-way ANOVA revealed a significant association between midline deviation and perception scores (p < 0.001). Perception scores were lower in the LCN group compared to the L group. Conclusion: Laypersons were able to detect upper dental midline deviations of 1mm or more when viewing adjacent facial structures. However, they required deviations of 2mm or more when focusing solely on lips. Viewing adjacent structures influences laypersons' perception of midline deviations.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Esthetics
  topic: keywords
subject: Layperson
  topic: keywords
subject: Malocclusion
  topic: keywords
subject: Midline
  topic: keywords
subject: Patient Preference
  topic: keywords
subject: Perception
  topic: keywords
subject: Personal Satisfaction
  topic: keywords
subject: Smile
  topic: keywords
subject: Soft tissue
  topic: keywords
creator: Imtisal Asim
creator: Shahab Adil
creator: Zafar Ul Islam
creator: Hasan Ali Raza
creator: Ghazala
creator: Sana Naz
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Imtisal Asim, Shahab Adil, Zafar Ul Islam, Hasan Ali Raza, Ghazala, Sana Naz
date: 2025-01-10
publication date: 2025-01-10
starting page: 34
ending page: 38