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No 1 (2026): Dentistry (1)
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7-11 153
Abstract

Relevance. Polylactic acid (PLA) is widely used in medicine and tissue engineering due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and manufacturability. However, pure PLA is characterized by brittleness, hydrophobicity, and limited osteoinductivity, requiring its modification with bioactive components. Objective of the review: to analyze current data on PLA-based composites for bone tissue regeneration and identify the most promising areas for their improvement. Materials and methods. An analysis of experimental studies on PLA composites with hydroxyapatite, β-tricalcium phosphate, 45S5 bioglass, mineralized collagen, graphene oxide, and cellulose nanofibers was conducted. Porosity, compressive strength, elastic modulus, bioactivity and osteoinductive potential were assessed, as well as the impact of 3D printing and nanomodification technologies. Results. The introduction of mineral and nanostructured fillers increases the mechanical strength and osteoconductivity of PLA scaffolds. PLA/45S5 bioglass composites demonstrate the most balanced combination of strength, macroporosity ≥70%, and bioactivity. Conclusion. The most promising direction is the development of PLA composites with bioactive 45S5 glass, which provide an optimal balance of mechanical and biological properties for bone regeneration.

12-16 165
Abstract

This scientific paper presents the results of a comprehensive clinical assessment covering both retrospective and prospective follow-up periods for patients with purulent-inflammatory diseases of the maxillofacial region. The research base was formed on the basis of medical documentation of patients suffering from infectious and inflammatory processes of the maxillofacial region. The main focus of the study was on a detailed study of clinical and laboratory parameters that can serve as predictors of an unfavorable course of the disease. The purpose of the study. To evaluate laboratory and clinical factors for the prognosis of complications and deaths in patients with purulent-inflammatory diseases of the maxillofacial region. Materials and methods. A retrospective and prospective study was conducted, which analyzed the data of patients with purulent-inflammatory diseases of the maxillofacial region who were treated at the clinical base of the Pirogov City Clinical Hospital No. 1 of the Moscow Department of Health of the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery and Dentistry of the Institute of Dentistry from 2014 to 2024. years . The present study analyzed data from 81 patients aged 38 to 86 years, including 25 (30.9%) women and 56 (69.1%) men. Upon admission to the hospital, 50 (61.7%) patients were in satisfactory condition, 10 (12.3%) patients were in moderate condition, 17 (21%) were in severe condition, and 4 (4.9%) were in extremely severe condition. Results and discussion. An analysis of significant laboratory indicators of the prognosis of complications in patients with HCV CHLO allowed us to establish that such factors include: an increase in the level of direct bilirubin (rating scale = 5.86; reliable range 1.77-8.12; p<0.001), an increase in AST activity (rating scale = 5.45; reliable range 1.60–7.43; p<0.001), decrease in serum iron concentration (rating scale = 4.38; reliable range 1.43–6.29; p = 0.016), decrease in prothrombin index (rating scale = 4.23; reliable range 1.21–5.96; p = 0.009), an increase in the level of ESR (estimated scale = 3.68; reliable range 1.38–5.22; p = 0.021). Conclusion. The authors conducted a study of research methods and statistical processing of laboratory parameters demonstrating predictive value in relation to the possible development of a complicated course of the pathological process and the risk of death. All patients underwent inpatient treatment at the multidisciplinary City Clinical Hospital No. 1 named after N.I. Pirogov, operating in the structure of the Moscow Department of Health on the basis of the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery and Dentistry. The use of modern methods of statistical data processing, in particular multifactorial regression modeling, has made it possible to identify key predictors of complicated outcomes. Using this analytical approach, it was possible to identify the most convincing risk factors associated with the development of complications in the study cohort of patients. The results obtained can be of significant practical importance for timely identification of high-risk patients and optimization of management tactics for this category of patients.

17-22 157
Abstract

Trauma, facial skeleton injuries, and the removal of neoplasms can lead to defects in the cranio-maxillofacial region and uncontrolled tissue constriction. This greatly limits the possibilities for reconstructive surgery and complicates further treatment. Standard and personalized titanium-based and titanium alloy-based metal structures are commonly used. Biodegradable materials for internal fixation are rarely used due to unpredictable resorption times and reduced strength characteristics. The purpose of a temporary/permanent individual polymer maxillofacial implant is to replace (eliminate) defects in the facial skeleton and dentition after trauma, inflammatory processes, congenital pathology, surgical treatment of craniofacial cancer, tooth loss, and extreme jaw atrophy. This article presents a protocol and results of using temporary individual polymer implants (VIPI) on.

23-30 138
Abstract

Bisphosphonates and denosumab are effective antiresorptive drugs that are included in clinical guidelines for the treatment of osteoporosis, as well as metastatic bone damage in cancer patients, both in our country and abroad. Their use is justified for the treatment and prevention of pathological fractures, hypercalcemia, and chronic pain syndrome. Osteonecrosis of the jaw is a serious complication of the use of antiresorptive drugs. The development of this complication has been successfully confirmed in experiments on rodents, information about which has been analyzed using PubMed databases and eLIBRARY.RU. Modeling of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw is an important stage in the study of this problem and allows us to trace the links of pathogenesis, the possibilities of diagnosis, treatment and prevention. The review analyzes various nuances of the experiment on modeling medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw in rodents: the choice of a drug and its combinations with potentiating substances, the use of various surgical triggers, the author’s interpretation of the results obtained in terms of common terminology and staging of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw, as well as the results of various types of studies of the obtained tissue samples. The main issue of implementing such experiments – the selection of the dosage of zoledronic acid – is also discussed in detail in this article. The variety of different approaches of researchers to the reproduction of osteonecrosis of the jaw against the background of the use of antiresorptive agents is evidence of the hard work of numerous laboratories around the world and confirms that this problem is far from being solved. A standardized model of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw in rodents that accurately reflects the clinical conditions has not been developed to date.

31-33 115
Abstract

Determining the facial growth pattern is fundamental for planning orthodontic treatment for sagittal occlusal anomalies. The article presents a comparative analysis of the distribution of growth patterns in patients with and mesial occlusion using a new cephalometric method based on an integral assessment of six angular parameters relative to the stable Porion (Po) point.

34-38 118
Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of different post-extraction socket management techniques in patients with a thin gingival biotype on vertical alveolar ridge resorption and soft-tissue thickness prior to planned implant placement. The study included 36 patients aged 27–43 years with a thin gingival biotype and a diagnosis of chronic apical periodontitis. Extractions were performed atraumatically under local anesthesia, after which patients were allocated to the main group (n = 20) and the control group (n = 16). In the main group, the extraction socket was filled with the collagen-based osteoplastic material Bioplast-Dent and covered with a subepithelial connective tissue graft; in the control group, the socket was managed with L-PRF and a collagen membrane. Vertical alveolar ridge resorption was assessed using dental cone-beam computed tomography 6 months after extraction, and measurements were performed in Xelis Dental Viewer 3D. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Welch t-test. Mean vertical resorption in the main group was 1.37 ± 0.36 mm (10.3 ± 1.2%), compared with 2.07 ± 0.33 mm (14.4 ± 1.4%) in the control group. Analysis taking bone density type into account showed lower vertical resorption in the main group for both D2 and D3 biotypes, with the D3 biotype exhibiting a tendency toward greater resorption. The thickness of keratinized attached gingiva did not change significantly; however, soft-tissue thickness above the planned implant site was greater in the main group (4.37 ± 0.22 mm) than in the control group (3.28 ± 0.35 mm). The findings indicate that atraumatic extraction combined with socket filling using a collagen osteoplastic material and coverage with a subepithelial connective tissue graft supports the preservation of vertical alveolar ridge dimensions and creates favorable conditions for gingival cuff formation, while minimizing the influence of bone biotype on resorption.

39-43 140
Abstract

Relevance. The microbiota of the oral cavity (MOC) plays an important role in maintaining local homeostasis. Currently, it is of interest to study MCI disorders (dysbiosis) in chronic somatic diseases such as bronchial asthma (BA). The processes of impaired immune response are essential in the pathogenesis of asthma, and inhaled glucocorticosteroids (IGCS) are widely used in the treatment of asthma. All of these factors can disrupt MCI, which, in turn, accelerates the development of caries and its complications (pulpitis and periodontitis), as well as periodontal diseases. Purpose. Improving the diagnosis of oral dysbiosis in patients with bronchial asthma receiving inhaled glucocorticosteroids. Material and methods. We conducted a study of the features of MCI disorders in patients suffering from asthma (n=30), in comparison with healthy volunteers (n=10), using gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GCMS) saliva samples. To optimize statistical analysis, patients with asthma were divided into 3 groups, depending on the severity of bronchial asthma (mild, moderate and severe). Results. As a result of the study of microbial markers by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) of saliva samples in patients with severe bronchial asthma, a significant increase in the number of bacteria was revealed compared to patients in the control group: Hathewaya histolytica/Str. pneumoniae (478.4±460.3/70.6±31.7), Clostridium difficile (12.8±8.3/0), Clostridium propionicum (Anaerotignum propionicum) (687.1±307.3/310.2±176.6), Clostridium ramosum (Thomasclavelia ramosa) (1745.1±753.9/1009±472.2), Bifidobacterium spp. (157.9±74.5/35.5±25.8), Streptococcus mutans (307.8±106.6/138.6±41.6), Propionibacterium freudenreichii (408.4±147.1/129±45.2) (all p<0.05), while the composition of saliva samples from patients with mild and moderate bronchial asthma did not differ from that of healthy volunteers. Conclusion. Patients with asthma receiving inhaled glucocorticosteroids exhibit a disturbance in the composition of the oral microbiota (dysbiosis); these changes reach statistical significance in severe stages of the disease. Oral dysbiosis in severe asthma is characterized by an increase in opportunistic bacteria with proinflammatory potential (in particular, Streptococcus mutans, considered the main etiologic factor for dental caries), as well as bacteria producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which contribute to oral acidification. Our results complement existing literature on the characteristics of oral microbiota in patients with asthma.

44-49 131
Abstract

Background. Acromegaly causes systemic tissue changes and comorbid conditions involving target organs, including the salivary glands. Ultrasound examination of the submandibular salivary glands (SSG) enables quantitative assessment of linear dimensions and calculated volume. Objective: to compare ultrasound parameters of the SSG in patients with acromegaly and in individuals without acromegaly, and to assess the association between clinical factors and ultrasound morphometry of the SSG within the acromegaly group. Materials and methods. A single-center observational study was conducted. The analysis included 68 participants: 41 patients with acromegaly and 27 controls. On ultrasound, the length, width, and thickness of the right and left SSG were measured. The volume of each gland was calculated using the ellipsoid formula: V = (length × width × thickness) × π/6. The primary parameter was total SSG volume (Vtotal = right gland volume + left gland volume). Data are presented as Me [Q1; Q3]. The Mann – Whitney U test was used for group comparisons. Results. Total SSG volume in patients with acromegaly was significantly higher than in controls: 18.07 [12.80; 23.50] cm³ vs 13.60 [10.95; 14.50] cm³ (p<0.001). Within the acromegaly group, total SSG volume was significantly higher in men than in women (p<0.001). In the presence of hyperprolactinemia, total SSG volume was significantly lower (p=0.0133). Conclusion. According to ultrasound morphometry, total SSG volume is higher in acromegaly than in controls. Within the acromegaly group, SSG parameters differed by sex and hyperprolactinemia status, which should be considered when interpreting the measurements.

50-54 113
Abstract

Relevance. The presence of impaired external respiration function in patients with skeletal forms of occlusal anomalies represents a significant medical challenge. Objective. This study aimed to analyse the volume of the upper airways using specialised software in patients who had undergone combined treatment for dentofacial anomalies. Materials and methods. Using the method proposed by A.V. Glushko, we conducted a comparative analysis of the upper airway volume and minimal axial area in 30 patients with skeletal Class II and Class III dentofacial anomalies. Patient inclusion was based on the Index of Orthognathic Treatment Need (proposed by Ireland A. J. et al.), with scores exceeding the «Great Treatment Needed» threshold. Results and conclusions. Our findings demonstrate that following orthognathic surgery and the subsequent normalisation of facial features and dentofacial relationships, the upper airway volumes in patients with skeletal Class II and Class III dentofacial anomalies become comparably equal.

55-60 159
Abstract

Introduction. Restoration of endodontically treated posterior teeth remains one of the most challenging tasks in prosthodontics due to the high risk of tooth fracture and restoration failure. In recent years, CAD/CAM endocrowns have attracted considerable interest as a minimally invasive alternative to conventional post-and-core restorations. The active implementation of chairside technology, along with the development of new ceramic materials, including advanced lithium disilicate and multilayer zirconia, necessitates clinical evaluation of their effectiveness, including under conventional and speed sintering protocols. Aim. To perform a comparative clinical evaluation of the quality of prosthodontic treatment of endodontically treated molars restored with CAD/CAM endocrowns fabricated from advanced lithium disilicate and multilayer zirconia using the chairside technique under different sintering protocols. Materials and methods. A prospective clinical study with dynamic follow-up over a 2-year period was conducted in 30 patients who received single endocrown restorations on endodontically treated molars. Three groups were formed: endocrowns fabricated from advanced lithium disilicate CEREC Tessera (speed firing), endocrowns fabricated from multilayer zirconia Ziceram ML CT (speed sintering), and a control group of endocrowns fabricated from Ziceram ML CT using conventional sintering. All restorations were fabricated using CAD/CAM chairside technology and adhesively luted. Clinical evaluation was performed using modified FDI criteria, including assessment of esthetic, functional, and biological parameters immediately after cementation and at 1, 2, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Results. All groups demonstrated a high level of clinical success at all follow-up periods. No cases of loss of retention, chipping, fracture of the restorations, or complications involving hard dental tissues or periodontal structures were recorded. No statistically significant differences were observed among the groups with respect to esthetic, functional, or biological criteria. All patients reported satisfaction with the treatment outcomes. The overall clinical success rate was 100%. Conclusions. The results of the present study indicate that CAD/CAM endocrowns fabricated from multilayer zirconia Ziceram ML CT and advanced lithium disilicate CEREC Tessera provide comparably high clinical effectiveness in the restoration of endodontically treated posterior teeth. The use of a speed sintering protocol for zirconia did not adversely affect the clinical performance of the restorations compared with the conventional sintering protocol. These findings support the feasibility of chairside technology and contemporary ceramic materials in routine clinical practice; however, further long-term clinical studies are required.

61-64 170
Abstract

Introduction: although self-ligating braces are supposed to provide better hygiene conditions, there is still no consensus. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adhesion of Streptococcus mutans (SM) to self-ligating and ligature braces from various manufacturers and types of ligatures. Methods: two commercial brands of metal braces for upper premolars («Damon 3» Ormco® and «In-Ovation» GAC®) were tested. Each of them was divided into three groups, which differed by the type of ligature (steel and elastomeric) and the model of the bracket (metal, self-ligating), for a total of six groups of six braces each. The pre-sterilized braces were immersed in saliva for one hour, then washed and added to a bacterial suspension kept under aerobic conditions for 72 hours (3 days). The adhering bacteria were then separated and counted by the number of colonies (CFU/mL) after 48 hours of growth. The groups were compared using the Kruskal – Wallis criteria (p <0.05). Results: regardless of the manufacturer’s brand, self-ligating braces showed significantly fewer colonies of microorganisms Cfu/ml. Among the compared models of self-ligating «In-Ovation» braces, GAC® showed the highest level of bacterial adhesion. Conclusions: self-ligating braces are likely to exhibit lower levels of biofilm adhesion compared to ligature braces. This is especially true for «Damon 3» Ormco® braces, which are less prone to biofilm accumulation, which is important to know for practicing orthodontics.

65-68 124
Abstract

The aim of the research – to study the dental status, sialometry, alpha-amylase levels, and oral fluid microcrystallization in vape smokers. 52 patients aged 19 to 21 were examined. They were divided into two groups: a study group of 27 (10 women and 17 men) who use vape, and a comparison group of 25 (7 women and 18 men) who do not smoke. Subjects underwent an oral examination, determination of the DMF and OHI-s indices, sialometry, determination of oral fluid alpha-amylase levels, and a mixed saliva microcrystallization study. Statistical analysis was performed using the R software environment. In the group of smoking the OHI-S value was 2.2 ± 0.77 points, the DMF index was 9 ± 0.83 points, in the group of non-smoking the OHI-S value was 0.8 ± 0.92 points (the differences are statistically significant compared to the group of non-smoking, p<0.05), and the DMF index was 5 ± 0.75 (p<0.05). The results of the sialometry showed a decrease in the level of salivation in smoking students – 0.45 ± 0.1 ml/min compared to non-smokers – 0.68 ± 0.1 ml/min (p< 0.05). The pH level of oral fluid in the group of smoking was 7.6 ± 0.46 units, in the group of non-smoking – 7.25 ± 0.4 units. A 12.6% increase in alpha-amylase activity (p<0.05) was detected in the smoking group. A study of the morphological characteristics of mixed saliva microcrystals revealed destructive changes in oral tissues, signs of impaired microcirculation due to intoxication, and a predominance of organic substances in oral fluid. The results indicate a negative impact of vaping on dental health, as well as on the composition and properties of saliva, which may contribute to the development of dental diseases.

69-73 126
Abstract

The operation of removing the lower third molar is a common surgical procedure in dental practice. An important aspect in this surgical intervention is the choice of the method of postoperative wound management – hermetic wound closure by suturing or open wound management under a tampon, which uses various wound dressings. Along with the clinical picture of the postoperative period, it is of particular interest to assess the quality of life of patients, including using specific questionnaires, in particular the Wound QoL-14 quality of life questionnaire, which covers physical discomfort, pain, functional limitations, emotional state and social adaptation. The aim of the study was to conduct a comparative assessment of the quality of life of patients depending on the condition of the wound in the postoperative period during surgical treatment of difficult eruption of the third lower molar and open wound management using various wound dressings. Materials and methods. The study included 120 patients who underwent surgery for complex removal of the lower third molar. The patients were divided into four groups of 30 people, depending on the method of postoperative wound management. Then, a comparative assessment of the quality of life in the postoperative period was performed using the WoundQoL-14 questionnaire on days 7 and 14. Results and discussion. In the postoperative period, patients of group 1 using iodoform turunda showed higher values of the global quality of life score, as well as indicators of the «Body» and «Psyche» domains on days 7 and 14 (p < 0.05). According to the criterion of «Life», the differences between the groups were revealed only on the 14th day. The data obtained indicate a more pronounced and prolonged effect of somatic and psychoemotional factors in group 1 patients, which is probably due to the peculiarities of postoperative care and the wound dressing itself. Conclusions. The analysis of the quality of life of patients after complex removal of the lower third molar revealed statistically significant differences between the groups according to the global score and individual criteria of the questionnaire. The most pronounced changes were observed in group 1 patients on the 7th and 14th days of the postoperative period. The data obtained indicate the influence of the chosen method of postoperative wound management using iodoform turunda on the dynamics of patients’ quality of life.

74-76 142
Abstract

Background. To improve the effectiveness of dental care for workers in hazardous working conditions, it is advisable to study their subjective assessments of their dental health, as industrial workers are insufficiently motivated to seek dental care. Study оbjective. To analyze the subjective assessment of dental health by workers exposed to hazardous working conditions, using cement production as an example. Materials and methods. A questionnaire was developed for anonymous survey of 92 workers exposed to hazardous working conditions (HWC) at the Cheri-Yurta Cement Plant (Chechen Republic). The questionnaire contained 10 questions covering dental and periodontal health, oral hygiene, access to dental care, and protection from occupational hazards. Results. Most respondents underestimate and are unaware of their oral health, despite numerous complaints and problems with their dental health. This explains the sporadic visits to the dentist during acute dental problems. This is due to inadequate dental hygiene practices, problems in dental education, and the potential negative impact of occupational hazards. A high need for dental treatment is evident among workers exposed to HWC at the plant. Conclusions. Dentists are not included in the medical team for periodic medical examinations of workers with hazardous work practices at the cement plant. However, only a fifth of respondents regularly use personal protective equipment, and half of those surveyed had visited a dentist more than two years ago. According to the survey, workers with hazardous work practices at the cement plant frequently complain of toothache, tooth sensitivity, missing teeth, and inadequate dentures. Half of those surveyed brush their teeth once a day. The majority of workers rate their dental health as good, as well as the availability of dental care in the area.

77-80 271
Abstract

Background. Gingival bleeding is one of the most common clinical manifestations of inflammatory periodontal diseases and significantly affects patients’ quality of life. The leading role in the development of inflammation belongs to dental biofilm formed on the tooth surface and in the cervical area. Despite the importance of mechanical plaque control, not all patients are able to maintain an adequate level of individual oral hygiene, which necessitates the use of additional chemical control measures. In this regard, the search for and clinical evaluation of oral hygiene products with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties aimed at reducing gingival bleeding remains relevant. Aim. To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of a toothpaste containing zinc citrate and zinc lactate, cetylpyridinium chloride, oak bark extract, and sanguinarine in reducing gingival bleeding in patients with inflammatory periodontal diseases. Materials and methods. The study included 50 patients aged 18 to 45 years who complained of gingival bleeding and had a Mühlemann bleeding index of ≥ 2. The patients were randomized into two comparable groups. All participants received standardized instruction on individual oral hygiene. Patients in the study group used a toothpaste containing active components, while patients in the control group used a hygienic toothpaste without antiseptic or anti-inflammatory agents. Clinical effectiveness was assessed after 10–14 days using the Mühlemann bleeding index and the Greene – Vermillion oral hygiene index. Statistical analysis was performed using parametric and nonparametric methods. Conclusion. The use of a toothpaste containing zinc citrate and zinc lactate, cetylpyridinium chloride, oak bark extract, and sanguinarine was associated with a more pronounced reduction in gingival bleeding compared to the use of a hygienic toothpaste, while maintaining a comparable level of oral hygiene. The obtained results indicate the feasibility of including this product in the comprehensive treatment of inflammatory periodontal diseases.

81-86 173
Abstract

Background. This article examines the prevalence of dental caries and risk factors in children aged 6–8 in highland Xinjiang, China. Particular attention is paid to analyzing the relationship between hygiene habits, dietary behavior, and socioeconomic conditions with dental health. Objective. To assess the prevalence of dental caries, study the influencing factors, and identify key risks. Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study of 113 children was conducted from October 2024 to January 2025. Questionnaires (demographics, hygiene, and nutrition) and a clinical examination using the DMFT/dmft and OHI-S indices were used. Results. The prevalence of dental caries was 89.4%. Hygiene was poor: 70.8% of children brushed their teeth less than twice a day, and 32.7% brushed for less than one minute. Multivariate analysis identified key risk factors: daily consumption of sweets, brushing teeth less than twice a day, and not flossing. A strong correlation was found between the OHI-S and DMFT/dmft. Conclusions. The study demonstrates a high prevalence of dental caries, requiring immediate action. A comprehensive prevention strategy is needed, including targeted interventions, enhanced dental education in schools, and the development of healthy habits in children and families.

87-92 151
Abstract

Background. Oral diseases are highly prevalent among children, and effective toothbrushing plays a crucial role. However, there is still no consensus on the optimal methodology. The aim of this study is to provide practical evidence. Objective. To compare the effects of circular, horizontal, and modified vertical brushing methods (vibration techniques) on plaque control, improvement of gingival condition, and treatment adherence in children, as well as to propose recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of hygiene education. Materials and methods. A randomized single-blind controlled trial was conducted. Forty-five children aged 6 to 12 years were divided into three groups and underwent a two-week training course. Following this, the Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI), and adherence level (compliance) were assessed. Results: showed a comparable reduction in the Plaque Index (PI) across all groups, but the circular method provided the greatest reduction in PI at 65.6%. The circular method group also achieved the best Gingival Bleeding Index (16.6%) and the highest compliance level (89.2%). Conclusion. All three methods demonstrated comparable clinical outcomes. However, the circular method significantly outperformed the others in terms of adherence and acceptance by children. Thus, the simple and convenient circular method is recommended as the preferred approach for establishing a long-term effective toothbrushing habit and improving oral health in school-aged children.

93-99 117
Abstract

The economic assessment of dental care in children is an essential component of optimizing treatment strategies and reducing the financial burden on healthcare systems. Early detection of caries and the use of minimally invasive approaches are particularly important, as they help prevent complications and decrease the overall cost of treatment. The aim of the study was to perform a clinical and economic evaluation of minimally invasive approaches to dental caries management in children, determine the cost of treatment at different stages of the disease, and assess the impact of diagnostic indices on the number of detected lesions and total expenditures. Materials and methods. The analysis included the assessment of direct medical costs for the treatment of enamel demineralization, superficial and dentin caries, and pulpitis in 6-year-old children. Costs were calculated using labor unit equivalents and regional outpatient dental tariffs. Additional evaluation was performed using the DMFT, CAST, ICDAS-II, and QLF indices to determine differences in the number of detected lesions and the associated financial burden. A cost-of-illness analysis and cost-minimization analysis was conducted. Results. The cost of treatment increased substantially with the progression of the carious process, with early lesions requiring the lowest expenditures and pulpitis treatment being the most expensive. Different diagnostic indices identified varying numbers of lesions, resulting in significant differences in total calculated costs. Cost-minimization analysis demonstrated that treating early-stage caries is the most economically advantageous compared with the treatment of superficial and dentin caries, as well as pulpitis. Conclusion. Early diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment of dental caries in children significantly reduce financial costs, prevent complications, and help preserve tooth structure. Preventive strategies and timely intervention represent a cost-effective approach for both healthcare systems and families.



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ISSN 2078-5631 (Print)
ISSN 2949-2807 (Online)