ISSN 3028-8940

JULY - DECEMBER 2025;2(2):10-15

OOK REVIEW https://doi.org/10.36097/rgcs.v2i2.3183

10 San Gregorio de Portoviejo University | Ecuador

Critical review of the interdisciplinary approach of the book «Comprehensive Dentistry:

contemporary challenges in oral care»

Revisión crítica del enfoque interdisciplinario del libro «Odontología integral: desafíos contemporáneos

del cuidado bucodental»

Ximena S. Guillén*

Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo, Manabí, Ecuador.

*Autor correspondiente

Recepción: 30-04-2025 Aceptación: 07-06-2025 Publicación: 31-07-2025

Cite as: Guillén, X. S. (2025). Critical review of the interdisciplinary approach of the book «Comprehensive Dentistry:

contemporary challenges in oral care». Revista Gregoriana de Ciencias de la Salud, 2(2), 10-15.

https://doi.org/10.36097/rgcs.v2i2.3183

The book «Comprehensive Dentistry: contemporary challenges in oral care» is a collective

work compiled by Santos and Galarza (2024) and published by Editorial San Gregorio. It is

presented as a contribution to understanding the multiple aspects that shape contemporary dental

practice. According to the editorial description, the work brings together the experience and

knowledge of leading professionals and academics, reflecting the richness and diversity of modern

Dentistry while offering a clear vision of the complexities inherent to the profession.

The book spans preventive Dentistry to advanced restorative techniques and oral surgery.

Additionally, it examines the ethical and humanistic aspects of the practice, highlighting the

significance of empathy and effective communication in the dentist-patient relationship. This

breadth of topics responds to the objective of providing a comprehensive perspective of current

Dentistry, addressing both clinical and social contemporary challenges. With a length of 126 pages

divided into eight thematic chapters, the book's structure allows for segmented reading by areas of

interest. Each chapter is written by different specialist authors and supported by abundant recent

bibliographic references, which denotes a strong academic foundation.

It is worth noting that, according to the editorial note, the chapters reflect the results of

research projects developed in the Dentistry program at the San Gregorio de Portoviejo University.

This indicates that the content not only compiles up-to-date knowledge but also stems from local

research, providing an academic and contextualized perspective.

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San Gregorio de Portoviejo University | Ecuador 11

In the general introduction, the editors express the aspiration that the text will serve as an

indispensable resource for students and professionals, offering a clear and up-to-date

understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Dentistry in the 21st century. In short,

this book is designed to update knowledge and foster a holistic view of oral health, integrating

various fields of Dentistry through the lens of contemporary practice.

The first chapter addresses the dental challenges in pediatric patients with Down syndrome.

Their distinctive oral manifestations (such as voluminous lips, high-arched palate, and

microdontia), common occlusal problems, and high prevalence of periodontal disease are

described. The need for pediatric dental care tailored to mental and intellectual development, with

behavioral management and family support, is emphasized. Regular checkups and strict oral

hygiene are recommended. The chapter concludes by highlighting the urgent need for further

research and an empathetic and individualized approach.

The second chapter focuses on dental care for children with physical and cognitive

disabilities. It defines disability and identifies barriers that affect oral health. It proposes

adaptations to hygiene techniques and auxiliary devices (such as modified or electric

toothbrushes). It highlights the role of caregivers, the importance of regular checkups, and an

adequate diet. The chapter proposes an inclusive, creative, and personalized Dentistry that

contributes to health equity.

The third chapter addresses geriatric Dentistry, highlighting common pathologies such as

caries, periodontitis, leukoplakias, edentulousness, and prosthetic problems. It explains their

clinical, nutritional, and psychological implications. It proposes the development of a clinical

guideline to improve oral care for older adults, based on an integrative literature review. The

importance of prevention, prosthetic rehabilitation, and a multidisciplinary approach is

emphasized.

Chapter 4 examines the relationship between human papillomavirus (HPV) and

oropharyngeal cancer, with a focus on its prevention through dental care. It cites current evidence

linking oral HPV infection with an increased risk of cancer mortality. It discusses the role of the

dentist in preventive education, vaccination promotion, and the early detection of lesions. It fosters

a broader perspective on dental public health.

Critical review of the interdisciplinary approach of the book «Comprehensive Dentistry: contemporary challenges in oral care»

Guillén

12 San Gregorio de Portoviejo University | Ecuador

Chapter 5 presents a case study on the rehabilitation of endodontically treated teeth using

fiberglass posts. It highlights the advantages of post replacements over metal posts (including

compatibility, aesthetics, and strength) and describes the clinical procedure step by step. It

emphasizes the importance of post-fit, the selection of appropriate cements, and the formation of

a monolithic composite. The chapter provides practical recommendations for students and

restorative clinicians.

The sixth chapter focuses on conservative pulp therapies in immature permanent teeth with

vital pulp. It uses the Patterson classification to guide clinical decisions based on the degree of root

development. Techniques such as pulp capping and pulpotomy are reviewed, utilizing materials

including MTA and biodentin. Advanced diagnostic methods (oximetry, laser Doppler) are also

explained. This is a key chapter for evidence-based pediatric endodontics.

The seventh chapter examines the premature loss of primary teeth and strategies for

preserving or recovering dental space, which is crucial for preventing malocclusions. Space

maintainers and restorers (fixed, removable, and functional) are described, including innovations

that utilize 3D printing. The chapter connects pediatric restorative dentistry with interceptive

orthodontics, reinforcing the preventive role of the pediatric dentist.

The book concludes with an eighth chapter, which examines ameloblastomas, benign but

aggressive odontogenic tumors. Its clinical and radiographic characteristics, as well as therapeutic

modalities, ranging from curettage to en bloc resections, are reviewed. The importance of accurate

classification, early detection, and a multidisciplinary approach is highlighted. The chapter links

Dentistry with oncologic surgery, reinforcing the book's comprehensive vision.

From an academic perspective, «Comprehensive Dentistry: contemporary challenges in

oral care» proves to be a valuable and timely resource. The diversity of topics covered—ranging

from dental care for special populations (children with disabilities, individuals with Down

syndrome, and older adults) to advanced clinical topics (innovative pulp therapies, aesthetic

rehabilitation, and tumor lesions)—reflects a multidimensional view of contemporary Dentistry.

This broad scope of issues is not random, but responds to real needs identified in practice and

research. As the editorial note indicates, the chapters are the result of research projects conducted

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San Gregorio de Portoviejo University | Ecuador 13

at the San Gregorio de Portoviejo University, ensuring that the content is scientifically rigorous

and locally relevant.

For dental students, the book offers a comprehensive overview of the profession, allowing

them to gain insight into diverse fields of specialization and understand how the principles learned

in academia apply to specific cases and real-life problems. For example, a student will find in a

single text discussion on how to manage a child with special needs in the office, how to plan pulp

treatment for a young tooth, or how to proceed when bone lesions are found in the jaw—all

accompanied by updated bibliographic references that encourage further exploration of each topic.

This interdisciplinary and up-to-date approach makes the book a comprehensive teaching aid for

courses in pediatric dentistry, geriatric dentistry, endodontics, oral rehabilitation, and public

health, among others. For practicing professionals, the book's usefulness lies in its ability to

provide updates on specific areas that may not be part of their daily practice, but about which it is

essential to be informed.

Modern dental practice requires constant updating, and the book provides literature reviews

up to 2023-2024 in various fields: for example, the chapter on HPV and cancer summarizes recent

epidemiological findings that could influence prevention campaigns and patient education; the

chapter on space maintainers presents technological innovations (3D printing) that can be

incorporated into practice to improve outcomes; the case report on fiberglass posts reiterates

optimal adhesive protocols that reinforce good clinical practices. All of this has direct application

in the clinic, whether for implementing new techniques or strengthening evidence-based decision-

making. The book can also serve as a quick reference.

Each chapter concludes with practical recommendations or specific conclusions that

professionals can refer to when faced with similar cases (for example, determining which pulp

material to use in a given situation according to the Patterson classification, or considering key

factors when treating a patient with a physical disability). Another aspect worth highlighting is the

relevance of the sources used. Throughout the book, numerous studies from the last five to ten

years are cited, indicating that the information is current as of 2024, in line with the latest scientific

knowledge. This updated approach is essential in a discipline as dynamic as Dentistry, where new

techniques, materials, and evidence on best practices are constantly emerging. For example, the

inclusion of research on laser Doppler flowmetry for pulp vitality or risk factors for HPV infection

Critical review of the interdisciplinary approach of the book «Comprehensive Dentistry: contemporary challenges in oral care»

Guillén

14 San Gregorio de Portoviejo University | Ecuador

demonstrates the relevance of the content. In this sense, the book more than fulfills its compilers'

stated objective of providing a clear and up-to-date understanding of the challenges of Dentistry

in the 21st century.

Regarding academic relevance, the book not only conveys knowledge but also

demonstrates the importance of dental research in improving practice. Each chapter is based on

studies or systematic reviews, providing examples of how research is translated into clinical

guidance. This can motivate both students and professionals to engage in research projects or, at

the very least, to consume high-quality scientific literature to support their clinical decisions.

Furthermore, the fact that multiple authors (teachers and researchers) collaborate on the

compilation offers the reader different specialized perspectives in a single volume, enriching the

learning experience. From a practical perspective, the book is written in a clear academic style,

with a consistent structure: an introduction to the topic, development with subheadings (in some

cases, including tables or diagrams, such as Patterson's in Chapter 6), conclusions, and references.

This organization facilitates selective reading; a reader with a specific interest can go

directly to the relevant chapter and find a well-structured summary of the topic, with actionable

conclusions and a bibliography for in-depth consultation. Therefore, this compendium is handy for

general dentists seeking efficient training. Likewise, for university professors, it can serve as a

support text or recommended reference for various subjects, given that it covers content that is

cross-cutting to comprehensive dental education. «Comprehensive Dentistry: contemporary

challenges in oral care» demonstrates high academic relevance by addressing current problems in

the profession with recent scientific support. It provides conceptual and practical tools for both the

training of new dentists and the continuing education of professionals. Its comprehensive and

multidisciplinary nature makes it a valuable bibliographic reference in Spanish for understanding

the challenges facing Dentistry today.

CONCLUSION

«Comprehensive Dentistry: contemporary challenges in oral care» offers a comprehensive

and up-to-date overview of modern Dentistry, addressing the main areas of the discipline—such

as prevention, public health, geriatrics, special pediatrics, orthodontics, and oral surgery—in eight

distinct chapters, highlighting the contemporary challenges that require professionals to stay

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San Gregorio de Portoviejo University | Ecuador 15

informed and adaptable. Its clear structure, with introductions, case studies, and recommendations,

facilitates understanding and practical application. The work stands out for its coherence in

emphasizing comprehensive care and prevention across diverse contexts, from children with

special needs to older people, reinforcing the idea of patient-centered, evidence-based Dentistry

that is connected to overall well-being. By compiling cutting-edge knowledge in an accessible

format with clear exposition, it becomes a valuable tool for students and professionals, combining

clinical excellence, innovation, and comprehensive training to address current challenges in oral

health successfully.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

The author declares that she has no conflicts of interest.

REFERENCES

Santos, T. B., & Galarza, L. E. (Comps.). (2024). Odontología Integral: desafíos contemporáneos

en el cuidado bucodental. Portoviejo, Ecuador: Editorial San Gregorio.

Disclaimer / Editor's Note: All publications' statements, opinions, and data are solely

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or the editors. Revista Gregoriana de Ciencias de la Salud and/or the editors disclaim all

responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions,

or products referred to in the content.