Nilena Eriksen | Albanian University (original) (raw)

Papers by Nilena Eriksen

European Journal of Medicine and Natural Sciences 7 (2), 45-56, 2024, 2024

Background: A medication error is defined as “any preventable event that may cause or lead to ina... more Background: A medication error is defined as “any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or patient harm while the medication is in the control of the healthcare professional, patient, or consumer.” In dental practice, medical errors can occur during various stages of the medication process, including prescription, storage, preparation, treatment, and use.
Aim: This study aims to investigate the occurrence rate of medical errors in dental practice and identify factors contributing to their preventability.
Study Design: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study.
Method: Data were collected from the dental records of patients treated at the University Dental Clinics of Tirana, Albania, between January and June 2023. Results: Of the records analyzed, 390 (90%) contained at least one medical error. The frequency of errors ranged from 1.0 to 2.5 errors per record. The most common types of errors were "Transcription of prescriptions" (88%), "Prescription errors" (78%), and "Administration errors" (68%). Antibiotics were specifically examined due to concerns about adverse reactions and antibiotic resistance. The Pearson correlation coefficient for antibiotics was significantly greater than 0 but less than 1.
Conclusion: Medical errors are prevalent in dental drug prescriptions. Understanding the types of medical errors and their contributing factors is crucial for optimizing therapy and ensuring patient safety. This study highlights, for the first time in the Albanian dental community, the need to document and address medical errors.

Journal of Research in Pharmacy, 2024

Honey is one of the oldest natural compounds that come from ancient times to nowadays with health... more Honey is one of the oldest natural compounds that come from ancient times to nowadays with health benefits. It has been used for the treatment of several diseases, but its role in oral health faces real skepticism due to the high concentration of carbohydrates in its composition. Many studies over the years have confirmed several pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antihistaminic, etc. It is composed of different chemical compounds like carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, organic acids, phenolic compounds, and volatile substances. Honey contains many enzymes such as invertase, catalase, glucose oxidase, and acid phosphorylase, as well as traces of vitamins B2, B4, B5, B6, B11, and vitamin C, minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium. A promising challenge is the use of honey as a targeting product obtained from green synthesis, with high-efficiency thanks to nanotechnology. This study aims to investigate the potential benefits of honey in oral health, leveraging its diverse biological activity like antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. Additionally, our scope was to provide scientific evidence supporting the use of honey in dentistry, emphasizing its broader health benefits and novel applications in oral health care.

Revistia Publishing, 2023

Introduction: The endodontic success is attributed to a variety of factors, but one of the most i... more Introduction: The endodontic success is attributed to a variety of factors, but one of the most important is canal preparation. Among causes of endodontic failures is vertical root fracture, which may result from gradual propagation of initial dentinal defects. Radicular canal preparation with hand instruments or with rotary systems seems to play an important role in initiation of dentin defects which later can propagate to vertical root fractures. Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of dentinal microcracks after instrumentation with Neolix, SCpro and hand instrumentation. Materials and method: 40 freshly extracted human maxillar centrals were collected and stored in formalin solution for two weeks. 40 samples collected were divided into four groups with ten teeth in each. Group 1-unprepared root canal shaping group (control group), group 2-hand instrumentation, group 3prepared by Neolix and group 4-prepared by SCpro (SOCO). All teeth were cut by diamond disc in cervical one third of root and inspected under XJM300 KOZO microscope. Results: The highest number of microcracks was found in root canals prepared with SCpro and only one was found in a root canal prepared with Neolix. No cracks were observed in the control group and hand instrumentation group. Conclusion: Rotary instruments caused dentin defects compared to hand instrumentation which didn't cause any defects in radicular dentin. SCpro rotary system caused more dentinal damage compared to

Revistia Publishing, 2023

Early detection is the most effective way for survival and reduced mortality in the case of oral ... more Early detection is the most effective way for survival and reduced mortality in the case of oral cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of dentists regarding early detection of oral cancer and precancerous lesions in many Dental Clinics in Tirana, Albania. This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study, where 200 general dentists practicing in private and University clinic in Tirana are involved in one questionnaire, between June-October 2022. This study was conducted using a simple random sampling technique with a self-reported questionnaire with open and closed questions. The dentists, aged from 25 to above 50, were well informed about the major risk factors associated with oral cancer. Around 25% of the respondent paid attention to the overall tongue as a potential site for malignancy. Looking at the dentist's knowledge about oral cancer; enlargement of cervical lymph nodes was the best-known clinical presentation of oral cancer (85.5%), followed by persistent ulcer (82.5 %). 68/200 dentists felt confident to examine and diagnose an oral precancerous/cancer lesion. Only 11.5% felt adequately trained in diagnostic techniques for early detection of oral precancerous/cancer lesion and were comfortable in performing a biopsy. Mostly the participants (89%) felt that they need further training on oral precancerous/cancer lesion early detection. Dentists must know more scientific data related to precancerous lesions to optimize early diagnosis and referral of patients. There is need for further training courses and continuing education regarding early detection and prevention of oral cancer.

International Conference on Research in Education and ScienceI, 2023

DNA profiling from teeth was used for the first time in Albania in 2022, for forensic purposes. T... more DNA profiling from teeth was used for the first time in Albania in 2022, for forensic purposes. The case has been resolved in collaboration with experts of the Institute of Scientific Police and academic staff of Albanian University. On April 3, 2022, some bones and a scull were revealed to surface after the locals have burnt some bushes, in Fushë Kuqe, Kurbin, meanwhile, on May 2015, a 16 years old boy has been declared missing from his family. The police were informed and investigations began for identification. A full DNA profile of the victim was yielded by an intact molar tooth present in the recovered mandibula. The putative mother has already submitted a DNA profile, which was stored in the database of the Institute of Scientific Police. The two profiles were analyzed and compared, and the results consisted in a high compatibility leading to identification. The aim of this study case was to evaluate for the first time in Albania DNA profiling from teeth and provide expertise in the field. In conclusion, genetic profiling from teeth resulted in an efficient method for forensic identification purposes opening new perspectives for our country.

Acta Scientific Dental Scienecs, 2020

Endodontic-Periodontal lesions are clinical findings that presents both diagnostic and therapeuti... more Endodontic-Periodontal lesions are clinical findings that presents both diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas. Knowing the etiology is very important in determining the proper treatment protocol and the long term success. Aim: The purpose of this report is to present three clinical cases with endodontic-periodontal lesions treated only with endodontic treatment. Material and Methods: The study presents three clinical cases with periodontal bifurcation lesions. Treatment included metapex placed in the root canals for 1 week, followed by canal sealing with guta-percha and cement. The patients were followed up 12 months to 3 years. Results: According to radiographic examination we saw healing of periradicular lesion in all three cases. Conclusion: It is necessary to know all factors that can cause periodontal bifurcation lesions to differentiate the types of endodonticperiodontal lesions regarding to its origin, defining the best way for treat.

European Journal of Natural Sciences and Medicine, 2023

Introduction: Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH) is a developmental disorder of dental enamel... more Introduction: Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH) is a developmental disorder of dental enamel with a systemic origin that affects one to four permanent first molars associated with incisors involvement. The aim of this study is to bring to the attention of professionals this pathology, emphasizing at the same time the importance of early diagnosis and frequency of controls of the affected individuals, including updates on diagnosis criteria. Methodology: This a literature review helping the professionals with new research in this field. Results: The European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has established the criteria for the evaluation of MIH updated in 2022, mostly involved in diagnosis and management. Many studies have shown that prevalence varies in different populations meanwhile have advanced in identifying possible etiological factors. Conclusions: This literature review related to MIH brings to the attention of professionals this pathology that requires a multidisciplinary intervention. Early diagnosis, identification, and awareness of dentists, and parents can influence its appearance and treatment options. Preventive therapy through remineralization can prevent massive post-eruptive enamel breakdown as well as other serious complications, with an important psycho-social impact on the child's life.

Acta Scientific Dental Scienecs, 2020

Endodontic-Periodontal lesions are clinical findings that presents both diagnostic and therapeuti... more Endodontic-Periodontal lesions are clinical findings that presents both diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas. Knowing the etiology is very important in determining the proper treatment protocol and the long term success. Aim: The purpose of this report is to present three clinical cases with endodontic-periodontal lesions treated only with endodontic treatment. Material and Methods: The study presents three clinical cases with periodontal bifurcation lesions. Treatment included metapex placed in the root canals for 1 week, followed by canal sealing with guta-percha and cement. The patients were followed up 12 months to 3 years. Results: According to radiographic examination we saw healing of periradicular lesion in all three cases. Conclusion: It is necessary to know all factors that can cause periodontal bifurcation lesions to differentiate the types of endodonticperiodontal lesions regarding to its origin, defining the best way for treat.

European Journal of Medicine and Natural Sciences 7 (2), 45-56, 2024, 2024

Background: A medication error is defined as “any preventable event that may cause or lead to ina... more Background: A medication error is defined as “any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or patient harm while the medication is in the control of the healthcare professional, patient, or consumer.” In dental practice, medical errors can occur during various stages of the medication process, including prescription, storage, preparation, treatment, and use.
Aim: This study aims to investigate the occurrence rate of medical errors in dental practice and identify factors contributing to their preventability.
Study Design: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study.
Method: Data were collected from the dental records of patients treated at the University Dental Clinics of Tirana, Albania, between January and June 2023. Results: Of the records analyzed, 390 (90%) contained at least one medical error. The frequency of errors ranged from 1.0 to 2.5 errors per record. The most common types of errors were "Transcription of prescriptions" (88%), "Prescription errors" (78%), and "Administration errors" (68%). Antibiotics were specifically examined due to concerns about adverse reactions and antibiotic resistance. The Pearson correlation coefficient for antibiotics was significantly greater than 0 but less than 1.
Conclusion: Medical errors are prevalent in dental drug prescriptions. Understanding the types of medical errors and their contributing factors is crucial for optimizing therapy and ensuring patient safety. This study highlights, for the first time in the Albanian dental community, the need to document and address medical errors.

Journal of Research in Pharmacy, 2024

Honey is one of the oldest natural compounds that come from ancient times to nowadays with health... more Honey is one of the oldest natural compounds that come from ancient times to nowadays with health benefits. It has been used for the treatment of several diseases, but its role in oral health faces real skepticism due to the high concentration of carbohydrates in its composition. Many studies over the years have confirmed several pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antihistaminic, etc. It is composed of different chemical compounds like carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, organic acids, phenolic compounds, and volatile substances. Honey contains many enzymes such as invertase, catalase, glucose oxidase, and acid phosphorylase, as well as traces of vitamins B2, B4, B5, B6, B11, and vitamin C, minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium. A promising challenge is the use of honey as a targeting product obtained from green synthesis, with high-efficiency thanks to nanotechnology. This study aims to investigate the potential benefits of honey in oral health, leveraging its diverse biological activity like antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. Additionally, our scope was to provide scientific evidence supporting the use of honey in dentistry, emphasizing its broader health benefits and novel applications in oral health care.

Revistia Publishing, 2023

Introduction: The endodontic success is attributed to a variety of factors, but one of the most i... more Introduction: The endodontic success is attributed to a variety of factors, but one of the most important is canal preparation. Among causes of endodontic failures is vertical root fracture, which may result from gradual propagation of initial dentinal defects. Radicular canal preparation with hand instruments or with rotary systems seems to play an important role in initiation of dentin defects which later can propagate to vertical root fractures. Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of dentinal microcracks after instrumentation with Neolix, SCpro and hand instrumentation. Materials and method: 40 freshly extracted human maxillar centrals were collected and stored in formalin solution for two weeks. 40 samples collected were divided into four groups with ten teeth in each. Group 1-unprepared root canal shaping group (control group), group 2-hand instrumentation, group 3prepared by Neolix and group 4-prepared by SCpro (SOCO). All teeth were cut by diamond disc in cervical one third of root and inspected under XJM300 KOZO microscope. Results: The highest number of microcracks was found in root canals prepared with SCpro and only one was found in a root canal prepared with Neolix. No cracks were observed in the control group and hand instrumentation group. Conclusion: Rotary instruments caused dentin defects compared to hand instrumentation which didn't cause any defects in radicular dentin. SCpro rotary system caused more dentinal damage compared to

Revistia Publishing, 2023

Early detection is the most effective way for survival and reduced mortality in the case of oral ... more Early detection is the most effective way for survival and reduced mortality in the case of oral cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of dentists regarding early detection of oral cancer and precancerous lesions in many Dental Clinics in Tirana, Albania. This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study, where 200 general dentists practicing in private and University clinic in Tirana are involved in one questionnaire, between June-October 2022. This study was conducted using a simple random sampling technique with a self-reported questionnaire with open and closed questions. The dentists, aged from 25 to above 50, were well informed about the major risk factors associated with oral cancer. Around 25% of the respondent paid attention to the overall tongue as a potential site for malignancy. Looking at the dentist's knowledge about oral cancer; enlargement of cervical lymph nodes was the best-known clinical presentation of oral cancer (85.5%), followed by persistent ulcer (82.5 %). 68/200 dentists felt confident to examine and diagnose an oral precancerous/cancer lesion. Only 11.5% felt adequately trained in diagnostic techniques for early detection of oral precancerous/cancer lesion and were comfortable in performing a biopsy. Mostly the participants (89%) felt that they need further training on oral precancerous/cancer lesion early detection. Dentists must know more scientific data related to precancerous lesions to optimize early diagnosis and referral of patients. There is need for further training courses and continuing education regarding early detection and prevention of oral cancer.

International Conference on Research in Education and ScienceI, 2023

DNA profiling from teeth was used for the first time in Albania in 2022, for forensic purposes. T... more DNA profiling from teeth was used for the first time in Albania in 2022, for forensic purposes. The case has been resolved in collaboration with experts of the Institute of Scientific Police and academic staff of Albanian University. On April 3, 2022, some bones and a scull were revealed to surface after the locals have burnt some bushes, in Fushë Kuqe, Kurbin, meanwhile, on May 2015, a 16 years old boy has been declared missing from his family. The police were informed and investigations began for identification. A full DNA profile of the victim was yielded by an intact molar tooth present in the recovered mandibula. The putative mother has already submitted a DNA profile, which was stored in the database of the Institute of Scientific Police. The two profiles were analyzed and compared, and the results consisted in a high compatibility leading to identification. The aim of this study case was to evaluate for the first time in Albania DNA profiling from teeth and provide expertise in the field. In conclusion, genetic profiling from teeth resulted in an efficient method for forensic identification purposes opening new perspectives for our country.

Acta Scientific Dental Scienecs, 2020

Endodontic-Periodontal lesions are clinical findings that presents both diagnostic and therapeuti... more Endodontic-Periodontal lesions are clinical findings that presents both diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas. Knowing the etiology is very important in determining the proper treatment protocol and the long term success. Aim: The purpose of this report is to present three clinical cases with endodontic-periodontal lesions treated only with endodontic treatment. Material and Methods: The study presents three clinical cases with periodontal bifurcation lesions. Treatment included metapex placed in the root canals for 1 week, followed by canal sealing with guta-percha and cement. The patients were followed up 12 months to 3 years. Results: According to radiographic examination we saw healing of periradicular lesion in all three cases. Conclusion: It is necessary to know all factors that can cause periodontal bifurcation lesions to differentiate the types of endodonticperiodontal lesions regarding to its origin, defining the best way for treat.

European Journal of Natural Sciences and Medicine, 2023

Introduction: Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH) is a developmental disorder of dental enamel... more Introduction: Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH) is a developmental disorder of dental enamel with a systemic origin that affects one to four permanent first molars associated with incisors involvement. The aim of this study is to bring to the attention of professionals this pathology, emphasizing at the same time the importance of early diagnosis and frequency of controls of the affected individuals, including updates on diagnosis criteria. Methodology: This a literature review helping the professionals with new research in this field. Results: The European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has established the criteria for the evaluation of MIH updated in 2022, mostly involved in diagnosis and management. Many studies have shown that prevalence varies in different populations meanwhile have advanced in identifying possible etiological factors. Conclusions: This literature review related to MIH brings to the attention of professionals this pathology that requires a multidisciplinary intervention. Early diagnosis, identification, and awareness of dentists, and parents can influence its appearance and treatment options. Preventive therapy through remineralization can prevent massive post-eruptive enamel breakdown as well as other serious complications, with an important psycho-social impact on the child's life.

Acta Scientific Dental Scienecs, 2020

Endodontic-Periodontal lesions are clinical findings that presents both diagnostic and therapeuti... more Endodontic-Periodontal lesions are clinical findings that presents both diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas. Knowing the etiology is very important in determining the proper treatment protocol and the long term success. Aim: The purpose of this report is to present three clinical cases with endodontic-periodontal lesions treated only with endodontic treatment. Material and Methods: The study presents three clinical cases with periodontal bifurcation lesions. Treatment included metapex placed in the root canals for 1 week, followed by canal sealing with guta-percha and cement. The patients were followed up 12 months to 3 years. Results: According to radiographic examination we saw healing of periradicular lesion in all three cases. Conclusion: It is necessary to know all factors that can cause periodontal bifurcation lesions to differentiate the types of endodonticperiodontal lesions regarding to its origin, defining the best way for treat.