Accessory cusp present on the occlusal surface may seldom pose problems. While its presence may not be a cause for alarm in most instances, it can sometimes lead to serious consequences if it is damaged. This case presents a rare finding of unilateral central accessory cusp seen on the occlusal surface of the maxillary left second primary molar and discusses the need for continuous dental surveillance and preventive measures.
The successful practice of dentistry involves a good combination of technical skills and soft skills. Soft skills or communication skills are not taught extensively in dental schools and it can be challenging to learn and at times in treating dental patients. Guiding the child's behavior in the dental operatory is one of the preliminary steps to be taken by the pediatric dentist and one who can successfully modify the behavior can definitely pave the way for a life time comprehensive oral care. This article is an attempt to revisit a simple behavior guidance technique, reframing and explain the possible psychological perspectives behind it for better use in the clinical practice.
Dental caries is a dynamic microbial disease that presents a challenge to a dentist in the initial diagnosis. Prime importance should be given to early caries detection as prior diagnosis helps in early prevention. [1] There are various methods for caries detection which include visual, visuotactile, radiographic, fluorescence-based, and electrical conductance-based methods. [2] More often, a dental clinician uses visuotactile and radiographic methods for caries detection in daily practice. Among visuotactile methods, conventionally, dmft/dmfs (decayed, missing and filled teeth/decayed, missing, and filled surfaces) are used to identify carious lesions, but the main limitation of dmft/dmfs index is that it detects caries only after obvious cavitation. [3] In recent times, a new paradigm International Caries Detection and Assessment System II (ICDAS II) came into force showing promising results in early detection of caries and its activity. [4]
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.