Numerical Analysis of Free-Surface Flows over Rubber Dams

This study integrates a large eddy simulation (LES) model and volume of fluid (VOF) method to simulate the free-surface flows over inflexible circular-crested dams of different shapes. The simulated water depths and pressures on the dam surface are validated by the results of laboratory experiments. Then the numerical model examines the effects of the water depths and the Reynolds number on the hydrodynamic force and the discharge coefficient. The simulation results reveal that the time-averaged drag coefficient decreases as the downstream water depth H2 increases, while the influence of water depth H2 on the lift coefficients is less significant. Furthermore, the discharge coefficients of circular and elliptical dams, computed from the simulated velocity profiles over the crest of the dam, agree with the formulae suggested by previous studies when the downstream depth H2/H1 < 0.90. In contrast, the discharge coefficient of a tear-shape dam is slightly larger than those of circular dams.

Endoscopic Retrieval of Ingested Dental Bur in a geriatric patient: A Case Report

Background: Accidental ingestion of a dental bur during the dental procedure is not a routine incident, but can result in serious complication and consequences. Case scenario: In this case report, a 76 - year old male patient, accidentally ingested a dental bur during the procedure. The presence and location of the dental bur was confirmed using chest and abdominal x-rays and it was subsequently retrieved by endoscopy procedure under general anaesthesia. The analysis of this case reaffirms the importance of the use of physical barriers such as rubber dams and gauze screens as precautionary measures to prevent such incidents from occurring.Conclusion: Taking the patient into confidence and informing him regarding the possible complications of the accident and keeping him/her under observation until the object has been removed, would fulfil the professional responsibilities of a dentist, and will result in avoiding possible legal and ethical issues. Presented case represented the usage of physical barriers in dentistry and their usefulness in the treatment protocol.

Application of Quality Control Circle in Promoting the Use of Rubber Dams in the Root Canal Treatment of Primary Teeth

Objective. Study the effect of quality control circle (QCC) in promoting the usage of rubber dams (RD) in root canal treatment of chronic pulpitis in primary teeth. Methods. Set up a quality control group to increase the amount of rubber dams used in the treatment of chronic pulpitis in primary teeth. Monthly monitoring results of the usage amount were counted by the outpatient computer system. Relevant data were collected through questionnaires, and causes of low utilization were analyzed, and the improvement measurements were formulated and implemented. Quality control circle activity was evaluated. Results. Through the quality control circle activity, the consumption of rubber dams in the root canal treatment of chronic pulpitis was significantly improved, children in treatment became more cooperative, and operation time of root canal treatment has also been shortened. Conclusion. The quality control circle activities played a significant role in promoting the use of rubber dams in the root canal treatment of primary teeth, and it can be used as a method to promote new clinical treatment programs.

Dental Dam Application for Endodontics in Dogs—A Novel Clamp Kit

Although rubber dams are widely used in endodontic treatment in humans with well-known advantages, their use in veterinary medicine is uncommon. The use of a dental rubber dam provides better control of cross-infection, prevents soft tissue contact of chemicals, and improves treatment efficiency. The purpose of this article is to describe a new line of clamps specifically designed for dogs and to review the procedure and materials used for isolating the operative field in endodontic patients. This new design of clamps, better adapted to canine tooth anatomy with different sizes and conformations, has been successfully used in dogs by the authors with good clinical results. The clamps allow for better adaptation to the tooth without injuring the gingiva or the furcation and provide increased retention of the dam for more effective isolation. Given the proven benefits in humans, the authors expect that the widespread use of a rubber dam with clamps specifically designed for canine dental anatomy will improve clinical outcomes in endodontics.