Impact of a research methodology course emphasizing critical appraisal skills on dental students' clinical decision-making self-efficacy: a single-arm educational intervention Dhruv Ahuja, Areeba Parvez, Puneet Batra, Nidhin Philip Jose, Shravan Shetty, Gauri Kalra BMC Medical Education, 2026 Undergraduate dental education in India emphasizes procedural competence, with limited structured exposure to research methodology and evidence appraisal. Research-oriented learning develops analytical reasoning, critical appraisal, and evidence interpretation skills that parallel core clinical reasoning processes and may strengthen students’ confidence in applying research evidence to patient care. The goals of this project were to implement a structured research methodology course emphasizing the critical appraisal process central to evidence-based practice (EBP), and assess its impact on clinical decision-making self-efficacy among undergraduate dental students. A prospective, single-center, single-arm quasi-experimental pre–post educational intervention study was conducted over 12 weeks among 250 undergraduate dental students. The research methodology course that comprised the education intervention was grounded in the principles of constructivism and competency-based education, incorporating blended learning, mentorship, and applied clinical scenarios. Clinical decision-making self-efficacy and research awareness were assessed using a validated 14-item questionnaire administered before and after the intervention. Statistical analyses included non-parametric pre–post comparisons, effect size estimation, subgroup analyses, and correlation testing. Ethical approval was obtained (MRDC/IEC/2025/58), and the study adhered to appropriate reporting guidelines for educational intervention research. Clinical decision-making self-efficacy scores increased significantly from baseline to post-intervention (21.3 ± 3.8 to 28.9 ± 3.6; p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 1.05). Research awareness scores also improved significantly (19.1 ± 4.2 to 27.4 ± 3.9; p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 1.12). Improvements were observed across all academic years, with greater gains among senior students. Post-intervention feedback indicated high satisfaction and perceived clinical relevance. Implementation of a structured research methodology course emphasizing critical appraisal of evidence via active learning strategies was associated with improved clinical decision-making self-efficacy among dental students, supporting the integration of research training into undergraduate dental education.
Formative Assessment in Pediatric Dentistry: A Tool for Growth, Not Judgment Gauri Kalra Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry, 2026 dentistry, a specialty where clinical skills overlap with effective communication strategies, assessment ideally must include reflective learning and improvement of learners, inculcating true professionalism and quality of care.It is therefore suggested that the assessment of a learner must not be a final judgment but a continuous process of improvement, learning, and reflection.
Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Hindi Version of Malocclusion Impact Scale for Early Childhood for Assessing Oral Health-related Quality of Life in Indian Preschool Children Gauri Kalra, Tanu Nangia, Varinder Goyal, Apurva Mishra, Ruchi Nagpal, Anubhav Sharma International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry, 2025 Background: A specialized tool was originally developed in Brazilian-Portuguese to assess how malocclusion in primary teeth affects the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of preschool children and their parents. Aim: To translate the Malocclusion Impact Scale for Early Childhood (MIS-EC) into Hindi, evaluate its reliability and validity, and determine its usefulness in assessing the impact of malocclusion on the OHRQoL of Indian preschool children and their parents. Methods: The Hindi MIS-EC was adapted using international translation guidelines and administered to 110 preschool children (3-5 years). Reliability was tested through intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and test-retest methods, while validity was examined using convergent and discriminant analyses. Results: The Hindi MIS-EC demonstrated good reliability, with an overall Cronbach's α of 0.71 and an ICC of 0.87. Discriminant validity (4.83) was significant, effectively distinguishing between children with and without malocclusion. Convergent validity was also confirmed, as the Hindi MIS-EC showed a significant correlation with the general health status of the child. Conclusion: The Hindi MIS-EC scale is a reliable and valid tool for assessing the effect of malocclusion on the OHRQoL of children aged 3-5 years in India. How to cite this article: . Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Hindi Version of Malocclusion Impact Scale for Early Childhood for Assessing Oral Health-related Quality of Life in Indian Preschool Children. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(10):1283-1287.
Comparative Evaluation of Clinical Efficiency of Pediatric Single Rotary File Systems for Pulpectomy in Primary Molars: An In Vivo Study Lakshmi Prasadh N, Gauri Kalra, Tanu Nangia, Carrolene Langpoklakpam, Madhulika Srivastava, Sonvita Debnath Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry, 2025 Barr et al. 8 introduced the usage of rotary endodontics into pediatric dentistry in the year 2000 through the ProFile rotary file system.Though the permanent rotary file systems were effective, due to the manufacturing difference of adult tooth morphology, these systems produced iatrogenic errors of perforations and fracture incidence while used in primary molars. 9ecently, various pediatric file systems have come into existence, namely Kedo files, Pro AF Baby Gold files, Prime Pedo files, Neo Endo Pedo Flex, Sani Kids, and Baby Blue file system. 10Continuous evolution of Kedo rotary files through the years has seen its tremendous transition
Oral Rehabilitation of Ectodermal Dysplasia Using modified Groper’s Appliance - A Case Report Twinkle Chawla, Carrolene Langpoklakpam, Tanu Nangia, Gauri Kalra Indian Journal of Dental Research, 2025 Rationale: Ectodermal dysplasia is a genetic condition characterised by atypical development of organs derived from the embryonic ectoderm, such as teeth, nails, hair and sweat glands. Clinical Signs: The most prevalent oral manifestation is hypodontia, which involves the absence of some or all primary and permanent teeth. Consequently, individuals with this condition often require dental prosthetic interventions during their formative years. Patient Concerns: This report discusses the oral rehabilitation of a 2-year-old child affected by ectodermal dysplasia with oligodontia using a modified Groper’s appliance. Take-away Lessons: The treatment had significant effects on self-esteem, mastication, speech and facial aesthetics.
Comparative evaluation of effectiveness among various sensory distractors for reducing dental anxiety in pediatric population aged 6–9 years – A randomized controlled trial Twinkle Chawla, Tanu Nangia, Madhulika Srivastava, Gauri Kalra, Carrolene Langpoklakpam Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, 2025 Aim: The aim is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of sensory distractors in the management of anxious pediatric patients during dental treatment aged between 6 and 9 years. Materials and Methods: A total of 350 children were divided into five groups (70 each): Group A: Visual distraction using distraction cards, Group B: Olfactory distraction using lemongrass oil aromatherapy, Group C: Auditory distraction through music therapy, Group D: Tactile distraction using Hugo acupressure, and Group E: Gustatory distraction using honey for taste. Each group received one of the sensory distraction interventions during dental treatment. Anxiety levels were assessed using the Chota Bheem Chutki Scale, pulse rate, and oxygen saturation (SpO2) before and after the procedure. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 24, employing paired t-tests and one-way ANOVA to compare pre- and postintervention data. Results: All sensory distraction methods significantly reduced anxiety levels and improved SPO2 readings (P < 0.001). The auditory distraction group showed the greatest reduction in anxiety (mean change = 1.10) and the largest increase in SPO2 levels (mean change = −4.98). Visual distraction also demonstrated significant efficacy, notably reducing posttreatment anxiety (mean = 1.04). Both the auditory and visual groups were more effective compared to gustatory and olfactory methods. Conclusion: Auditory distraction, particularly music, was the most effective in managing pediatric dental anxiety, followed by visual distraction. Sensory distractions are valuable nonpharmacological tools for reducing anxiety and improving physiological comfort in children undergoing dental procedures.
Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of Grape Seed Extract, Strawberry Yogurt, Dente91 (nHAP, Lactoferrin and Xylitol), and Ozone on Enamel Remineralization of Posterior Teeth: An In Vitro Study Gauri Kalra, Tanu Nangia, Twinkle Chawla, Rashika Singhania, Sakshi Shah, Lakshmi Prasadh N Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry, 2025 Background: Dental caries causes loss of mineral content and requires remineralization. To counteract the negative effects of fluoride, nonfluoride-based remineralizing products have evolved. Objective: To evaluate and compare the effect of grape seed extract, strawberry yogurt, Dente91<sup>®</sup> (nHAP, lactoferrin, and xylitol), and ozone oil on enamel remineralization of posterior teeth. Materials and methods: Sixty sound extracted posterior permanent teeth that were selected were immersed in a demineralizing solution. The samples were subsequently categorized into four groups, each subjected to a different chemical treatment over a period of 21 days: group I with grape seed extract (GSE), group II with strawberry yogurt, group III with Dente91<sup>®</sup>, and group IV with ozone. The effects were assessed using a digital analytical scale, Vickers microhardness tester, and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray analyzer (SEM-EDX). Statistical analysis was performed using paired <i>t</i>-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Tukey's honest significant difference (HSD) <i>post hoc</i> test. Results: All four groups delivered significant remineralization, with the highest mean weight difference and surface microhardness in group IV (ozone). SEM images and EDX revealed maximum mineral content in the ozone group, followed by strawberry yogurt, grape seed extract (GSE), and Dente91<sup>®</sup>. Conclusion: All four agents—GSE, strawberry yogurt, Dente91<sup>®</sup>, and ozone—showed significant remineralization; however, ozone proved to show the maximum results.
Comparative Evaluation of Remineralizing Agents on Hypersensitivity Scores in Molar Incisor Hypomineralization-affected Teeth: A Randomized Clinical Trial D Thakur, G Kalra, V Goyal, P Jindal, GF Ferrazzano International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry 19 (5), 630-634 , 2026 2026
Formative Assessment in Pediatric Dentistry: A Tool for Growth, Not Judgment G Kalra Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry 9 (1), 1-2 , 2026 2026
Comparative clinical evaluation of microfilled and nanofilled resin-based fissure sealants: A randomized controlled trial G Kalra Indian Journal of Dental Research 37 (Suppl 1), S26 , 2026 2026
Oral Health-related Quality of Life in Children with Molar Incisor Hypomineralization S Upadhyay, G Kalra Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry 8 (S1), S1-S2 , 2025 2025
Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Hindi Version of Malocclusion Impact Scale for Early Childhood for Assessing Oral Health-related Quality of Life in Indian Preschool … G Kalra, T Nangia, V Goyal, A Mishra, R Nagpal, A Sharma International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry 18 (10), 1283 , 2025 2025 Citations: 1
Comparative Evaluation of Clinical Efficiency of Pediatric Single Rotary File Systems for Pulpectomy in Primary Molars: An In Vivo Study G Kalra, T Nangia, C Langpoklakpam, M Srivastava, S Debnath Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry 8 (3), 210-216 , 2025 2025
Apexification of traumatized anterior teeth with blunderbuss canals using MTA putty and collagen membrane: A case report R Singhania, G Kalra, SF Hasan, T Nangia, M Srivastava, S Shah, N Puri Endodontics Today 23 (3), 417-422 , 2025 2025
Retractions in Dental Research: A Growing Concern for Scientific Integrity G Kalra Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry 8 (2), 77-78 , 2025 2025
Upholding Integrity in Research: Quality vs Rankings G Kalra Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry 8 (1), 1-2 , 2025 2025
Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of Grape Seed Extract, Strawberry Yogurt, Dente91 (nHAP, Lactoferrin and Xylitol), and Ozone on Enamel Remineralization of Posterior Teeth … R Singhania, G Kalra, T Nangia, T Chawla, S Shah Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry 8 (1), 18-24 , 2025 2025
Oral Rehabilitation of Ectodermal Dysplasia Using modified Groper’s Appliance-A Case Report T Chawla, C Langpoklakpam, T Nangia, G Kalra Indian Journal of Dental Research 36 (2), 246-248 , 2025 2025
Digital Dentistry: Advancing The Future Of Oral Healthcare MAK Naman Pandey, Dr. Gauri Kalra, Dr. Sonvita Debnath,Ameesha Khurana ... African Journal of Biomedical Research 28 (2s), 2021-2023 , 2025 2025
Paper Mills and Pseudoscience: Undermining Research Credibility G Kalra Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry 7 (3), 123-124 , 2025 2025 Citations: 2
Untying the knot: frenectomy of lip and tongue ties using diode lasers G Kalra, M Srivastava, T Nangia, T Chawla Cureus 17 (1) , 2025 2025 Citations: 3
Comparative evaluation of effectiveness among various sensory distractors for reducing dental anxiety in pediatric population aged 6–9 years–A randomized controlled trial T Chawla, T Nangia, M Srivastava, G Kalra, C Langpoklakpam Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry 43 (1 … , 2025 2025 Citations: 4
Use of E-cigarettes (Vaping) among dental students and their Self-perceived oral health symptoms: A Questionnaire-basedstudy PT Jashwinder Singh Chauhan, Isha Garg, Kanak Kapoor, Jyoti Samchung, Gauri ... South East European Journal of Public Health 25 (2), 1072-1081 , 2024 2024
Comparison of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Liquorice and Chlorhexidine Gel as Cavity Disinfectants in Deciduous Molars: A Randomized Controlled Trial VS Wajiha Khan1 , Bhavna G Saraf2 , Gauri K Yadav3 , Priya Mendiratta4 ... World Journal of Dentistry 15 (8), 672-680 , 2024 2024
Assessing the impact of climate change on early childhood caries within the framework of sustainable developmental goal 13: a scoping review G Kalra, T Nangia, Y Kumar, Y Pal Cureus 16 (10) , 2024 2024 Citations: 8
Modified OXIS Classification of Interproximal Contacts of Primary Canines and Its Prevalence in Six-to-Nine-Year-Olds in the Delhi National Capital Region: A Cross-Sectional Study M Srivastava, G Kalra, C Langpoklakpam, R Singhania, AP Mane Cureus 16 (10) , 2024 2024
Comprehensive Management of an Impacted Maxillary Central Incisor: A Case Report T Nangia, G Kalra, C Langpoklakpam Cureus 16 (10) , 2024 2024 Citations: 2
MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS
Evaluation of indirect pulp capping using three different materials: A randomized control trial using cone-beam computed tomography VP Mathur, JK Dhillon, A Logani, G Kalra Indian Journal of Dental Research 27 (6), 623-629 , 2016 2016 Citations: 86
Oral health in children with leukemia VP Mathur, JK Dhillon, G Kalra Indian journal of palliative Care 18 (1), 12 , 2012 2012 Citations: 84
Low level laser therapy: a panacea for oral maladies V Kathuria, JK Dhillon, G Kalra Laser therapy 24 (3), 215-223 , 2015 2015 Citations: 77
Cone beam computed tomography: an innovative tool in pediatric dentistry JK Dhillon, G Kalra J Pediatr Dent 1 (2), 27-31 , 2013 2013 Citations: 38
Prevalence of early childhood caries and assessment of its associated risk factors in preschool children of urban Gurgaon, Haryana. G Kalra, K Bansal, A Sultan Indian Journal of Dental Sciences 3 (2) , 2011 2011 Citations: 24
A new approach to facilitate apexogenesis using soft tissue diode laser VP Mathur, JK Dhillon, G Kalra Contemporary Clinical Dentistry 5 (1), 106-109 , 2014 2014 Citations: 13
Laser biostimulation of oral ulcers in children JK Dhillon, G Kalra, VP Mathur Int J Laser Dent 2 (2), 59-62 , 2012 2012 Citations: 13
Survey of instructions to authors in Indian and British Dental Journals with respect to ethical guidelines VP Mathur, JK Dhillon, G Kalra, A Sharma, R Mathur Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry 31 (2 … , 2013 2013 Citations: 12
Assessing the impact of climate change on early childhood caries within the framework of sustainable developmental goal 13: a scoping review G Kalra, T Nangia, Y Kumar, Y Pal Cureus 16 (10) , 2024 2024 Citations: 8
Contemporary Behavior Guidance Techniques to Outsmart Child\'s Anxious Mind. ES Kapil D, Saraf BG, Sheoran N, Kalra G J South Asian Assoc Pediatr Dent 4 (1), 41-49 , 2021 2021 Citations: 7
Assessment and Comparison of Dental Anxiety by Measuring Physiological Psychological and Immune Responses in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Noninvasive Dental Treatment K Dhinsa, S Saha, G Singh, G Dhinsa, D Das, GK Yadav Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry 2 (1), 14-21 , 2019 2019 Citations: 7
Insight to newer agents and methods for local anesthesia in pediatric dentistry VP Mathur, G Kalra The Indian Journal of Pediatrics 87 (4), 253-254 , 2020 2020 Citations: 5
Comparative evaluation of effectiveness among various sensory distractors for reducing dental anxiety in pediatric population aged 6–9 years–A randomized controlled trial T Chawla, T Nangia, M Srivastava, G Kalra, C Langpoklakpam Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry 43 (1 … , 2025 2025 Citations: 4
Authors submission guidelines, a survey of pediatric dentistry journals regarding ethical issues T Walia, G Kalra, VP Mathur, JK Dhillon Plos one 17 (1), e0261881 , 2022 2022 Citations: 4
Untying the knot: frenectomy of lip and tongue ties using diode lasers G Kalra, M Srivastava, T Nangia, T Chawla Cureus 17 (1) , 2025 2025 Citations: 3
Relationship between maternal prenatal vitamin D status and early childhood caries in their children: a cross-sectional survey G Kalra, Y Kumar, C Langpoklakpam, T Chawla, T Thangaraju, ... International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry 17 (8), 860 , 2024 2024 Citations: 3
Prevalence of dental fear and anxiety and its association with behavior using three fear and anxiety measurement scales among children in Faridabad T Kakkar, BG Saraf, G Kalra, N Sheoran, AK Khan, P Lakhanpal Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry 5 (3), 164-169 , 2022 2022 Citations: 3
Paper Mills and Pseudoscience: Undermining Research Credibility G Kalra Journal of South Asian Association of Pediatric Dentistry 7 (3), 123-124 , 2025 2025 Citations: 2
Comprehensive Management of an Impacted Maxillary Central Incisor: A Case Report T Nangia, G Kalra, C Langpoklakpam Cureus 16 (10) , 2024 2024 Citations: 2
Bibliometric Report of Authorship Trends in a Professional Journal- An Update VPM Gauri Kalra, Jatinder Kaur Dhillon Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry 40, 98-101 , 2022 2022 Citations: 2