Latest news with #OmanDentalCollege
Observer
25-05-2025
- Health
- Observer
Omani innovation develops biocompatible dental filling
MUSCAT: An innovative team from the Oman Dental College has successfully developed a dental filling using Omani Portland cement reinforced with carbon nanoplates, creating the first material that combines exceptional strength with complete biocompatibility for dental tissues. This breakthrough opens new horizons in global dental treatments. Malak bint Khalifa al Harthiyah, a member of the research team "Pulp49," said that the innovation stemmed from observing how traditional fillings often lack a balance between "strength" and "biocompatibility." This prompted the team to develop a new composite that achieves this challenging balance. She explained that the composite is a dental filling made by integrating Omani cement with graphene sheets, resulting in a material with high mechanical efficiency and significant biocompatibility. This has led to clear and rapid restoration of surrounding dental tissues. The development of the composite took approximately five years of research and experimentation, undergoing initial cell-level testing followed by animal trials in collaboration with the Mounted Police Command. It is now in the second phase of human trials, with preliminary results showing highly promising indicators. Regarding the expected benefits of this composite in dentistry, she noted that it provides a cost-effective solution while enhancing the longevity and efficiency of dental treatments. This represents a major advancement in dental materials, offering improved outcomes for both patients and dentists. Among its key advantages is high biocompatibility, as the integration of carbon nanoplates enhances the material's positive interaction with biological tissues while reinforcing its mechanical properties. This makes it particularly suitable for complex and challenging dental applications. Malak bint Khalifa al Harthiyah Additionally, the composite supports tissue regeneration by mimicking an ideal environment for the rebuilding cells in surrounding dental tissues. This effect is attributed to the synergistic interaction between the carbon nanoplates' properties and the calcium ion-based reaction of Portland cement with physiological body fluids. The composite also exhibits superior sealing capabilities, with the increased volume and unique properties of the nanoplates enhancing its ability to fill gaps and voids, making it ideal for applications requiring tight seals or water resistance. The innovation has been officially recognised, securing a patent in the Sultanate of Oman and international registration. The team is currently finalising the last stages of development after receiving essential support from the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, paving the way for its introduction to local and eventually global markets. Addressing the challenges faced during the project, she explained that the team encountered difficulties in achieving the ideal composition, requiring multiple rounds of testing, experimentation and model adjustments before finalising the approved formula. She emphasised the substantial support received, with the Oman Dental College providing necessary resources and the ROP Mounted Police contributing to trials. She also acknowledged the direct support of Dr Abu Bakr Qateeshat, Head of Graduate Studies, Research and Development at the college, and Dr Aida al Wahaibi, as well as the encouragement from family, which served as a major motivator in achieving this milestone. Regarding her selection to represent Oman at the International Invention, Innovation and Technology Exhibition (ITEX) in Malaysia in 2025, she described it as an opportunity to showcase Omani youth's capabilities and their role in delivering innovative solutions that elevate Oman's global standing, while also facilitating knowledge exchange with innovators worldwide. Malak bint Khalifa al Harthiyah affirmed that Omani youth are capable of remarkable achievements when they believe in their ideas and channel their creativity toward serving society — especially when innovation is genuine, addresses real needs and contributes to the nation's progress.
Times of Oman
25-05-2025
- Health
- Times of Oman
Omani team develops strong, biocompatible dental filling
Muscat: An innovative team from the Oman Dental College has successfully developed a dental filling using Omani Portland cement reinforced with carbon nanoplates, creating the first material that combines exceptional strength with complete biocompatibility for dental tissues. This breakthrough opens new horizons in global dental treatments. Malak Khalifa Al Harthy, a member of the research team "Pulp49," told Oman News Agency (ONA) that the innovation stemmed from observing how traditional fillings often lack a balance between "strength" and "biocompatibility." This prompted the team to develop a new composite that achieves this challenging balance. She explained that the composite is a dental filling made by integrating Omani cement with graphene sheets, resulting in a material with high mechanical efficiency and significant biocompatibility. This has led to clear and rapid restoration of surrounding dental tissues. The development of the composite took approximately five years of research and experimentation, undergoing initial cell-level testing followed by animal trials in collaboration with the Mounted Police Command. It is now in the second phase of human trials, with preliminary results showing highly promising indicators. Regarding the expected benefits of this composite in dentistry, she noted that it provides a cost-effective solution while enhancing the longevity and efficiency of dental treatments. This represents a major advancement in dental materials, offering improved outcomes for both patients and dentists. Among its key advantages is high biocompatibility, as the integration of carbon nanoplates enhances the material's positive interaction with biological tissues while reinforcing its mechanical properties. This makes it particularly suitable for complex and challenging dental applications. Additionally, the composite supports tissue regeneration by mimicking an ideal environment for the rebuilding cells in surrounding dental tissues. This effect is attributed to the synergistic interaction between the carbon nanoplates' properties and the calcium ion-based reaction of Portland cement with physiological body fluids. The composite also exhibits superior sealing capabilities, with the increased volume and unique properties of the nanoplates enhancing its ability to fill gaps and voids, making it ideal for applications requiring tight seals or water resistance. The innovation has been officially recognized, securing a patent in the Sultanate of Oman and international registration. The team is currently finalizing the last stages of development after receiving essential support from the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, paving the way for its introduction to local and eventually global markets. Addressing the challenges faced during the project, she explained that the team encountered difficulties in achieving the ideal composition, requiring multiple rounds of testing, experimentation, and model adjustments before finalizing the approved formula. She emphasized the substantial support received, with the Oman Dental College providing necessary resources and the ROP Mounted Police contributing to trials. She also acknowledged the direct support of Dr. Abu Bakr Qateeshat, Head of Graduate Studies, Research, and Development at the college, and Dr. Aida Al-Wahaibi, as well as the encouragement from family, which served as a major motivator in achieving this milestone. Regarding her selection to represent Oman at the International Invention, Innovation, and Technology Exhibition (ITEX) in Malaysia in 2025, she described it as an opportunity to showcase Omani youth's capabilities and their role in delivering innovative solutions that elevate Oman's global standing, while also facilitating knowledge exchange with innovators worldwide. In closing, Malak Khalifa Al-Harthy affirmed that Omani youth are capable of remarkable achievements when they believe in their ideas and channel their creativity toward serving society—especially when innovation is genuine, addresses real needs, and contributes to the nation's progress. -ONA
Observer
08-04-2025
- Climate
- Observer
Protect your health and vehicles from heat
With temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Celsius, experts have urged people especially those working outdoors to take summer precautions. One must drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Consuming alcohol, coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks can hurt more than help during summer. "Summer has already hit Oman, and temperatures are nearly 40 degrees on some days. In this case, unless certain precautions are taken to avoid sunstroke and falling prey to heat waves, one wouldn't be able to stay healthy during the extreme temperatures," says Dr Mohammed al Rahbi, a specialist in emergency medicine. If anyone develops symptoms like body aches, dizziness, tiredness, shivering, fever, loose motion, vomiting, consult a doctor immediately as timely intervention can prevent further loss of water and electrolytes from the body and hasten recovery," said Dr Al Rahbi One should also wear loose and light-coloured clothing which is better than wearing dark coloured outfits which will absorb heat. "Caps can protect one from direct sunlight on the face and usage of sunscreens is advisable. Frequent sips of water are the need of the hour as they can keep you dehydrated,' adds another doctor. Those who are working outside during these sweltering months, beware. Although the three-month-long midday break would start in June, you need to protect yourself as summer is here. For blue collared workers, they should take a rest in the shade during peak hours and work on either side of peak hours, or in the evening and nighttime. They should also make sure they drink sufficient water. Dr Viresh Chopra from the Oman Dental College suggests everyone, especially the elderly to avoid direct sun exposure, especially between 11 am and 4 pm 'With temperatures soaring to 39–40°C, Oman is experiencing an unusually intense summer. We should take necessary precautions by staying hydrated drinking plenty of water throughout the day by wearing light, breathable clothing and using sun protection when outdoors. Apart from these, we should make sure we keep checking on elderly family members and young children regularly. Also, never leave anyone, especially children or pets, in parked vehicles where they face risks of dehydration,' said Dr Chopra. Dr Sanjay Dalal advises families to keep their homes cool and comfortable as the mercury dips by using curtains, air conditioners and coolers. 'It is strongly advised to take ORS, homemade drinks like lassi, lime juice etc. Take a bath in cold water which helps to rehydrate the body. If you feel ill, see a doctor immediately, said Dr Dalal. Heat stress can result in heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat rashes. Heat can also increase the risk of injuries in workers as it may result in sweaty palms, fogged-up safety glasses, and dizziness. 'Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks, sugary drinks which dehydrate the body. If you work outside, wear a hat and also use a damp cloth on your head, neck, face and limbs. Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles,' he said. Travel tips during summer: 1. Driving in extremely hot weather can be harmful to your health, and the health of your vehicle. 2. When travelling in very hot weather, always keep an eye on the temperature warning light. 3. Never leave a child alone in a car, not even for one minute 4. Check battery, tires, cooling systems regularly 5. Kill the engine while filling petrol at petrol station 5. Pack plenty of water in the car while travelling.
Observer
03-03-2025
- Health
- Observer
HEALTHY FASTING HABITS
While the essence of Ramadhan promotes moderation - whether in lifestyle, spiritual practices, or eating habits - doctors are seeing a rise in cases related to binge eating and poor dietary choices, especially during the first week of fasting. A significant number of people tend to overeat after Iftar, leading to health issues such as gastroenteritis, high blood pressure, dehydration and digestive discomfort due to a lack of a structured eating pattern post-fast. 'Lifestyle diseases increase during Ramadhan due to improper eating habits, including gastro issues, high blood pressure and dehydration caused by insufficient water intake after Iftar,' says Dr Thashli Thankachan, Gastroenterologist at Badr Al Samaa Hospital. Breaking a 14-hour fast with heavy, fried and sugary foods can trigger gas, bloating, constipation, acid reflux and food intolerances - all common complaints during Ramadhan. Experts stress that gut health is crucial for overall well-being and can be managed through mindful eating habits. "Most cases I see during and after Ramadhan are directly linked to poor dietary changes," says Dr Hamed al Isai, Internist at the Ministry of Health. Dr Viresh Chopra from Oman Dental College emphasises the balance between spiritual reflection and physical well-being during Ramadhan: "Hydrate well at Suhoor and Iftar to prevent dehydration. Opt for fruits, vegetables and lean proteins to sustain energy. Avoid fried and sugary foods, which can cause fatigue. Good oral hygiene also plays a role in overall health." Mini Padikkal, Clinical Dietician at NMC, recommends a structured and balanced diet during the holy month: Suhoor (Pre-dawn meal): #Avoid overeating - excess food digests quickly, making you hungry sooner. #Stay hydrated but avoid excess water, which may disrupt sleep. #Include yogurt to help manage thirst during fasting. #Maintain oral hygiene by brushing the tongue or using miswaak. Iftar (Breaking fast): #Avoid fizzy drinks and fried foods. #Always break your fast with dates for a natural energy boost. #Limit sugar intake, as excessive sugar contributes to lifestyle diseases. #Eat slowly and in moderation - let your digestive system adjust before heavy meals. #Avoid junk food or overloading the stomach immediately after breaking fast. Alongside balanced nutrition, doctors recommend light to moderate exercise, such as walking or stretching, to maintain fitness without overexertion. Prioritising sleep and stress management also ensures a healthier fasting experience. With mindful eating habits, proper hydration and balanced routines, Ramadhan can be a spiritually fulfilling and health-enhancing experience.
