Publications - Publications

The Relationship between Professional Variables and Burnout Syndrome in Brazilian Dentists during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Castro, M. S., Meira, G. d. F., Mendes, R. G. F., et al. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 20:56:20 +0200

Burnout syndrome (BS) is a highly prevalent occupational disease among dentists who, during the COVID-19 pandemic, have been at greater risk of contracting the disease, generating stress and distancing. The aim of this study was to assess the association of social conditions, professional factors and perceptions of COVID-19 with Burnout Syndrome. This was a cross-sectional study of 302 Brazilian dentists working in the clinical and private sectors. The professionals completed the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory online and answered sociodemographic and professional questions and questions related to their perception of the pandemic. Poisson regression with unadjusted and adjusted robust variance was used to estimate the association between burnout syndrome (dependent variable) and the independent variables. The presence of BS was strongly associated with age, training in a private institution, professionals who claimed to have sufficient protective knowledge and fear of being contaminated by SARS-CoV-2 during patient care (p < 0.05). The findings of this study show that there has been an impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the occurrence of Burnout syndrome in dentists, especially, those who worked in the public sector and those who were afraid to work with other health professionals.

The Mouth as a Reservoir of SARS-CoV-2

Gomes, S. C., Miller, L. M., Xavier, L., Bitencourt, F. V. — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 20:56:20 +0200

Purpose of Review: This systematic review addresses the question: Is the oral cavity a reservoir of SARS-CoV-2 in participants who tested positive for viral RNA in nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal samples? Four databases and a complementary search on the reference list of included studies were consulted. Paired reviewers independently searched the literature, extracted data, and evaluated the risk of bias (Joanna Briggs Institute). Recent Findings: A total of 3173 references were identified, and after a 2-phase selection, 24 studies were included. In total, 10 diagnostic test accuracy and 14 cross-sectional studies determined the presence of SARS-CoV-2 using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) incorporating experimental and control samples. It was shown that saliva, gingival crevicular fluid, dental plaque, and gingival tissue harbored viral RNA. A high level of heterogenicity between studies was observed. The risk of bias analysis raised major concerns regarding the lack of clear criteria for inclusion, with most studies being of moderate to low quality. SARS-CoV-2 RNA is present in oral cavity samples, reinforcing the contribution of the oral cavity as a potential route of entry for infection and may offer a practical and affordable point-of-care platform for COVID-19 diagnosis. Furthermore, comprehending the oral cavity as a reservoir of SARS-CoV-2 may provide insight into its persistence and transmissibility. Summary: The oral cavity can serve as a reservoir of SARS-CoV-2. Awareness of the significance of the oral cavity as a SARS-CoV-2 viral reservoir may help to shape COVID-19 containment measures and further potential therapeutic initiatives.

Effectiveness of various methods of educating children and adolescents for the maintenance of oral health

Atif, M., Tewari, N., Saji, S., Srivastav, S., Rahul, M. — Wed, 01 May 2024 20:56:20 +0200

Background: School-based oral health education has emerged as one of the most effective methods to instill a positive attitude toward oral health in children. Aim: This systematic review (SR) aimed to assess the effectiveness of different methods of oral health education in children and adolescents. Design: Systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, LILACS, Scopus, and EMBASE on January 29, 2023. Review included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and their risk of bias (ROB) was assessed by Cochrane RoB-2. Data were extracted and analyzed by expert group. The GRADE approach was used to assess the quality of evidence for each outcome. Every step was conducted in duplicate, and disagreements were resolved by consulting the third reviewer. Results: The SR included 10 RCTs with majority showing a high ROB. They included 12 methods with the commonest being the use of leaflets/flash cards. Most interventions were effective in improving oral hygiene, gingival health, and knowledge except conventional teaching methods, lecture by using PowerPoint by dentists, and e-learning interventions. The grade of evidence in the majority of outcomes was found to be low or very low. Conclusion: Interventions using the interactive methods such as games, motivational-experiential learning, and audiovisual methods were found to be more effective than controls and other interventions. Variabilities in study methods and outcome variables must be addressed in the future.

Evaluating the effect of rapamycin treatment in Alzheimer’s disease and aging using in vivo imaging

Svensson, J. E., Bolin, M., Thor, D., et al. — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Background: Rapamycin is an inhibitor of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) protein kinase, and preclinical data demonstrate that it is a promising candidate for a general gero- and neuroprotective treatment in humans. Results from mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease have shown beneficial effects of rapamycin, including preventing or reversing cognitive deficits, reducing amyloid oligomers and tauopathies and normalizing synaptic plasticity and cerebral glucose uptake. The “Evaluating Rapamycin Treatment in Alzheimer’s Disease using Positron Emission Tomography” (ERAP) trial aims to test if these results translate to humans through evaluating the change in cerebral glucose uptake following six months of rapamycin treatment in participants with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. Methods: ERAP is a six-month-long, single-arm, open-label, phase IIa biomarker-driven study evaluating if the drug rapamycin can be repurposed to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Fifteen patients will be included and treated with a weekly dose of 7 mg rapamycin for six months. The primary endpoint will be change in cerebral glucose uptake, measured using [¹⁸F]FDG positron emission tomography. Secondary endpoints include changes in cognitive measures, markers in cerebrospinal fluid as well as cerebral blood flow measured using magnetic resonance imaging. As exploratory outcomes, the study will assess change in multiple age-related pathological processes, such as periodontal inflammation, retinal degeneration, bone mineral density loss, atherosclerosis and decreased cardiac function. Discussion: The ERAP study is a clinical trial using in vivo imaging biomarkers to assess the repurposing of rapamycin for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. If successful, the study would provide a strong rationale for large-scale evaluation of mTOR-inhibitors as a potential disease-modifying treatment in Alzheimer’s disease. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT06022068, date of registration 2023–08-30.

Verbal communication of effect-sizes, possible comparators, and uncertainty of evidence in the Finnish clinical practice guidelines

Raittio, E., Raittio, L. — Sun, 01 Aug 2021 20:56:20 +0200

Rationale, aims, and objectives: Our aim was to investigate verbal representations of intervention effect-size, uncertainty of evidence, and possible intervention comparators in statements concerning effects of interventions in Finnish clinical practice guidelines. Method: We selected 10 clinical practice guidelines on common diseases and risk factors published by The Finnish Medical Society Duodecim. All the statements that considered beneficial effects of interventions and that were graded with a level of evidence (levels A, high, to D, very low) were included in analyses. We assessed whether the statements verbally represented intervention effect-size, uncertainty of evidence or a possible comparator, and the reported outcome. Results: Of 385 statements, verbal representation of beneficial effect-sizes occurred in 25 (6%) statements. Most (72%) statements indicated that intervention had a beneficial effect, but did not specify effect-size. Less than half (42%) of the statements represented uncertainty verbally. Comparisons to placebo or no-treatment were rare (3%) and 18% of the statements compared interventions to other treatments. Against instructions, a considerable part (35%) of statements with B-level evidence did not represent uncertainty. Conclusion: Communicating beneficial intervention effects, effect-sizes, possible comparators, and uncertainty of evidence require much broader attention in the clinical practice guideline context.

Are social pressure, bullying and low social support associated with depressive symptoms, self-harm and self-directed violence among adolescents? A cross-sectional study using a structural equation modeling approach

Stea, T. H., Bonsaksen, T., Smith, P., et al. — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Background: More in-depth evidence about the complex relationships between different risk factors and mental health among adolescents has been warranted. Thus, the aim of the study was to examine the direct and indirect effects of experiencing social pressure, bullying, and low social support on mental health problems in adolescence. Methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022 among 15 823 Norwegian adolescents, aged 13–19 years. Structural Equation Modelling was used to assess the relationships between socioeconomic status, social pressure, bullying, social support, depressive symptoms, self-harm and suicide thoughts. Results: Poor family economy and low parental education were associated with high pressure, low parental support and depressive symptoms in males and females. Moreover, poor family economy was associated with bullying perpetration and bullying victimization among males and females, and cyberbullying victimization among females, but not males. Low parental education was associated with bullying victimization among males, but not females. Further, high social pressure was associated with depressive symptoms among males and females, whereas high social pressure was linked to self-harm and suicide thoughts among females, but not males. Bullying victimization and cyberbullying victimization were associated with depressive symptoms, self-harm, and suicide thoughts among males and females. Bullying victimization was associated with depressive symptoms among males, but not females, whereas bullying perpetration was linked to self-harm and suicide thoughts among females, but not males. Low parental support was associated with bullying perpetration, bullying victimization, depressive symptoms, self-harm and suicide thoughts among males and females, whereas low parental support was associated with high social pressure among females, but not males. Low teacher support was associated with high social pressure and depressive symptoms. Low support from friends was associated with bullying victimization, depressive symptoms and suicide thoughts among males and females, whereas low support from friends was linked to self-harm among males, but not females. Finally, results showed that depressive symptoms were associated with self-harm and suicide thoughts among males and females. Conclusion: Low socioeconomic status, social pressure, bullying and low social support were directly and indirectly associated with depressive symptoms and self-directed violence among Norwegian adolescents.

Cone Beam CT-undersøgelse i tandlægepraksis

Matzen, L. H., Spin-Neto, R., Kruse, C., Wenzel, A., Schropp, L. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 20:56:20 +0200

Influence of malocclusion on sleep bruxism and orofacial pain

Caetano, J. P., Goettems, M. L., Nascimento, G. G., et al. — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Objectives: This cross-sectional school-based study explored the influence of malocclusion on temporomandibular disorders (TMD) pain complaints, and whether this association would be mediated by sleep bruxism in a representative sample of 7- to 8-year-old children. Methods: Path analysis estimated direct, indirect, and total effects of occlusal features on sleep bruxism and TMD pain in 7- to 8-year-old children. Occlusal features were assessed with Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI), orofacial pain complaints using the TMD pain screener, possible sleep bruxism based on self-reports, and probable sleep bruxism based on self-reports combined with clinical findings. Structural equation modeling analyzed data with confounding factors. Results: From 580 participants, possible sleep bruxism was observed in 136 children (31.5%), probable sleep bruxism in 30 children (6.7%), and TMD pain complaints in 78 children (13.8%). Malocclusion had no direct effect on either possible sleep bruxism [standardized coefficient (SC) 0.000; p = 0.992], or TMD pain complaints (SC – 0.01; p = 0.740). When probable sleep bruxism was set as the mediator of interest, malocclusion did not directly affect probable sleep bruxism (SC 0.01; p = 0.766), nor TMD pain complaints (SC – 0.02; p = 0.515). A direct effect of probable sleep bruxism on TMD pain complaints was observed with an SC of 0.60 (p < 0.001). However, in neither case, malocclusion indirectly affected TMD pain complaints via bruxism. Conclusion: Malocclusion in 7- to 8-year-old children did not directly influence possible or probable sleep bruxism or TMD pain complaints. Instead, probable sleep bruxism was strongly associated with TMD pain complaints. Clinical significance: The impact of occlusal features on TMD pain complaints and bruxism has been a long-standing controversy in dentistry. However, the scientific literature linking this association may be inconsistent, mainly due to biased sample selection methods with inadequate consideration of confounders. Further research should try to identify additional risk factors for TMD pain in addition to probable sleep bruxism in children.

Comparative assessment of scientific reach and utilization of the International Association of Dental Traumatology 2020 guidelines

Ravi, M., Tewari, N., Atif, M., Srivastav, S., Shrivastava, N., Rahul, M. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 20:56:20 +0200

Background/Aim: The updated version of the International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT) guidelines was published online in May 2020 in the form of four papers. They are extensively used in dental trauma education in textbooks, undergraduate and postgraduate programs, and clinical workshops. Hence, this study aimed to assess the impact, global scientific reach, and utilization of these guidelines through altmetric and citation analysis. Material and Methods: The protocol was prepared after an expert group discussion. Dimensions database was used to derive the altmetric and citation data on April 10th, 2023. The data was extracted by using a self-designed pre-piloted form by two authors independently. The citing articles were further categorized into the type of study and the domains and subdomains of dental traumatology. The VOSviewer program was utilized to explore the correlation between the subdomains and the overlap of citations was assessed by creating a citation matrix. Results: A total of 552 citations had been collectively received by the four papers. The highest was seen for the guidelines for fracture and luxation in permanent teeth (FL), avulsion in permanent teeth (AV), general introduction (GI), and primary teeth (PT). Dental Traumatology had the maximum number of citing papers for each guideline. They were from 52 countries with English being the commonest language. Overall, the maximum number of citations had been received in narrative reviews (n = 104) and the majority of cited papers were categorized in the therapeutic domains. The most common subdomain for the papers that cited GI, FL, and AV was “treatment protocols in permanent teeth”, while it was “awareness of prevention and emergency management of traumatic dental injuries” for the papers that had cited PT. Conclusions: This analysis highlighted that the IADT 2020 guidelines are globally popular resources, which are widely used by the researchers across specialities and are intended towards clinical application.

Risk factors associated with traumatic dental injuries in individuals with special healthcare needs—A systematic review and meta-analysis

Devi K., P., Tewari, N., O'Connell, A., et al. — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Background/Aim: Individuals with special healthcare needs (SHCN) are more likely to sustain traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) due to distinct risk factors. The aim of this review was to assess various risk factors associated with TDIs in individuals with SHCN. Materials and Methods: The protocol was designed according to the recommendations of the Cochrane-handbook, Joanna Briggs Institute, and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022357422). A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, LILACS, Web of Science, EMBASE and Scopus using a pre-defined strategy without any limitation of language and year of publication. It was last updated on 25 April 2023. Studies addressing the TDIs in individuals with SHCN were included. Data extraction and analyses were performed, risk of bias (ROB) assessment was done using the Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tool, and a meta-analysis was performed using random-effects model. Results: A total of 21 studies were included in the review. They were categorized according to the target disease/condition: cerebral palsy (n = 5), ADHD and autism spectrum disorders (n = 5), visually impaired (n = 4), and multiple disorders (n = 7). The studies showed variability in the design and methods; however, 17 out of 21 studies showed moderate to low ROB. Increased overjet and lip incompetence were the main risk factors reported in the studies. The commonest injuries were observed to be enamel and enamel and dentine fractures. Conclusion: The overall pooled prevalence of TDI in individuals with special healthcare needs was 23.16% with 20.98% in males and 27.06% in females. Overjet >3 mm and inadequate lip coverage were found to be associated with a higher risk of TDI in all the categories of individuals with special healthcare needs except ADHD and ASD. Falls at home in cerebral palsy, falls while walking and self-harm in ADHD and ASD, falls at home and collision in visual impairment, and unspecified falls in multiple disorders could be identified as the most common cause of TDI.

Comparison of masticatory muscle activity between young adults and elderly participants using a novel standardized bite device

Ishii, Y., Iida, T., Honda-Sakaki, M., Yoshida, K., Svensson, P., Komiyama, O. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 20:56:20 +0200

Objectives: Standardized bite training is required to prevent oral hypofunction in elderly individuals. We aimed to compare masticatory muscle activity between 24 young adults and 16 pre-elderly individuals during a biting task using a novel standardized bite device (BD). Methods: The BD was made of silicone rubber and included a high-force or low-force plate spring or no plate spring (dummy). The compressive stiffness of the material in each BD was measured using a texture analyzer. All participants performed a biting task 50-times at a rate of 1/s each using the three types of BDs on the right first molar. Electromyographic (EMG) activity was recorded bilaterally from the masseter and temporalis muscles. The variability of each biting training session was calculated as the coefficient of variance (CV) from the EMG activity during each biting task for each muscle. Masticatory muscle fatigue was assessed using a numerical rating scale (NRS). Results: Compressive stiffness was significantly different between each BD (P < 0.001). The CV and NRS scores were not significantly different between the groups. The EMG activities during each bite task in all muscles were not significantly different for any measurement item between the age groups. The EMG activities of high- and low-force BDs in the right temporalis (ipsilateral) muscle were significantly higher than those of the dummy BD (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Compressive stiffness of the BD affected EMG activity only in the ipsilateral temporalis muscle, but not in the masseter or contralateral temporalis muscles, without any age effect.

Development of patient-specific finite element model for study of composite dental implants

Gupta, V., Garg, A., Tewari, N., Srivastav, S., Chanda, A. — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Traumatic dental injuries can occur due to various reasons such as accidents, sports injuries, fights, falls, and others. These injuries can affect the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues, and can range from minor chips and cracks to severe fractures, dislocations, and avulsions (when the tooth is completely knocked out of the socket). The most common way to address this is by replacing affected teeth with dental implants. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the use of composite materials in dental implants and compare them with the traditionally used materials using a patient specific cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) based finite element model (FEM). To conduct this research, two different implant groups i.e., traditional implant and composite implant were designed using Titanium grade 4, zirconium oxide-reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS), and Zirconia (ZrO₂). Six dental implants were designed namely Ti implant, ZLS implant, ZrO₂ implant, Ti-ZrO₂ composite, Ti-ZLS composite, and ZLS-ZrO₂ composite using 3D modelling software. Detailed full-scale 3D models of patient specific dental implant were developed and traumatic loading conditions were applied to the enamel of central incisor teeth or crown of dental implant, and maxilla was constrained in all directions. It was found that the use of composite materials for dental implants can reduce the stresses over the surface of abutment and implant as compared to traditional implants. The detailed models developed as a part of this study can advance the research on dental implants, and with further experimental validation allow the use of composite materials for fabrication of more stable dental implants.

Effects of orthopedic treatment (distraction splint) on dentofacial deformities in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Vassis, S., Sabljic, S., Noeldeke, B., et al. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 20:56:20 +0200

Background: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) frequently affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which can alter mandibular growth and development and result in dentofacial deformities. Objective: To assess the outcomes of orthopedic treatment with distraction splint (DS) in patients with JIA-related dentofacial deformity. Methods: The retrospective study involved 30 patients with JIA and unilateral TMJ involvement, another study group of 20 patients with JIA and bilateral TMJ involvement, and a control group of 18 non-JIA orthodontic patients with Class II and III malocclusions. The inclusion criteria were DS treatment and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans before (T0) and 2 years after treatment (T1). Dentofacial morphology and deformity were evaluated based on a validated three-dimensional CBCT-based morphometric analysis. Intergroup differences in outcome measures were compared at T0 and T1, and intragroup changes between T0 and T1 were assessed using the Kruskal–Wallis test. Results: Initial evaluations at T0 revealed significant differences between the unilateral and bilateral JIA groups and the control group for three out of eight dentofacial deformity variables: inter-side difference in total posterior mandibular height, mandibular axial angle, and posterior/anterior face height (ratio). At follow-up (T1), significant inter-group differences were only observed in total posterior mandibular height indicating that intergroup differences were less pronounced after splint treatment. Assessing inter-group changes between T0 and T1 showed that all parameters remained constant except posterior/anterior face height ratio, which significantly decreased between T0 and T1. Conclusions: The findings demonstrate the potential of DS treatment for patients with JIA and unilateral or bilateral TMJ involvement to generally support normal dentofacial growth or at least limit further deterioration of dentofacial deformities.

Dental-dedicated MRI, a novel approach for dentomaxillofacial diagnostic imaging

Greiser, A., Christensen, J., Fuglsig, J. M.C.S., et al. — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 20:56:20 +0100

MRI is a noninvasive, ionizing radiation-free imaging modality that has become an indispensable medical diagnostic method. The literature suggests MRI as a potential diagnostic modality in dentomaxillofacial radiology. However, current MRI equipment is designed for medical imaging (eg, brain and body imaging), with general-purpose use in radiology. Hence, it appears expensive for dentists to purchase and maintain, besides being complex to operate. In recent years, MRI has entered some areas of dentistry and has reached a point in which it can be provided following a tailored approach. This technical report introduces a dental-dedicated MRI (ddMRI) system, describing how MRI can be adapted to fit dentomaxillofacial radiology through the appropriate choice of field strength, dental radiofrequency surface coil, and pulse sequences. Also, this technical report illustrates the possible application and feasibility of the suggested ddMRI system in some relevant diagnostic tasks in dentistry. Based on the presented cases, it is fair to consider the suggested ddMRI system as a feasible approach to introducing MRI to dentists and dentomaxillofacial radiology specialists. Further studies are needed to clarify the diagnostic accuracy of ddMRI considering the various diagnostic tasks relevant to the practice of dentistry.

An international consensus study to identify “what” outcomes should be included in a core outcome set for endodontic treatments (COSET) for utilization in clinical practice and research

El Karim, I., Duncan, H. F., Cushley, S., et al. — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Background: Development of a standardized set of topic-specific outcomes known as a Core Outcome Set (COS) is important to address issues of heterogeneity in reporting research findings in order to streamline evidence synthesis and clinical decision making. Aim: The aim of the current international consensus study is to identify “what” outcomes to include in the Core Outcome Set for Endodontic Treatments (COSET). Outcomes of various endodontic treatments (non-surgical root canal treatment, surgical endodontics, vital pulp treatment and revitalization procedures) performed on permanent teeth were considered. Methods: A standard validated methodology for COS development and reporting was adopted. The process involved identification of existing outcomes through four published scoping reviews. This enabled creation of a list of outcomes to be prioritized via semi-structured patient interviews, e-Delphi process and a consensus meeting with a range of relevant global stakeholders. Outcomes were prioritized using a 1–9 Likert scale, with outcomes rated 7–9 considered critical, 4–6 are important and 1–3 are less important. Outcomes rated 7–9 by ≥70% and 1–3 by <15% of participants were considered to achieve consensus for inclusion in the COS. The outcomes that did not achieve consensus in the first round were considered for further prioritization in the second Delphi round and consensus meeting. Final decisions about the outcomes to include in COSET were made by voting during the consensus panel meeting using the Zoom Poll function. Results: A total of 95 participants including patients contributed to the COS development process. The consensus panel recommended, with strong consensus, eight outcomes shared across all treatment modalities for inclusion in COSET: pain; signs of infection (swelling, sinus tract); further intervention/exacerbation; tenderness to percussion/palpation; radiographic evidence of disease progression/healing; function; tooth survival; and patient satisfaction. Additional treatment specific outcomes were also recommended. Discussion: Many of the outcomes included in COSET are patient reported. All should be included in future outcomes studies. Conclusion: COSET identified outcomes that are important for patients and clinicians and validated these using a rigorous methodology. Further work is ongoing to determine “how” and “when” these outcomes should be measured.

The impact of methylene blue photosensitizer, aPDT and a calcium hydroxide-based paste on the physicochemical and mechanical characteristics of root canal dentin and the bonding interface of fiberglass posts

Strazzi-Sahyon, H. B., Banci, H. A., Maltarollo, T. F. H., et al. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 20:56:20 +0200

Purpose: To investigate the influence of methylene blue (MB)-mediated antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) and calcium hydroxide (CH) medication on the mechanical characteristics, degree of conversion (DC), quantification, and volume of gaps at the adhesive interface of glass fiber posts (GFPs) luted to distinct thirds of root canal dentin. Additionally, the microhardness (MH), elastic modulus (Eit), morphology, and chemical structure of the intraradicular dentin were assessed. Materials and methods: 6 experimental groups were formed by sorting 102 bovine incisors. Canals receiving deionized water irrigation as a negative control; canals receiving deionized water irrigation and filled with CH as a positive control; groups treated with CH + MB at 50 and 100 mg/L without irradiation; and groups treated with CH + MB at 50 and 100 mg/L irradiated by red laser for 60 s (660 nm; 100 mW; 6.5 J; 72 J/cm²). MH, Eit, and DC properties were evaluated for both the resin cement layer and root dentin substrate (n = 8). Volume and quantification of gaps at the bonding interface (n = 6), and dentin morphology and chemical content were investigated (n = 3). Data were analyzed using a repeated-measures 2-way ANOVA followed by Tukey post hoc analysis (α = 0.05). Results: The distinct intraradicular thirds and treatment with MB-mediated aPDT, whether activated or not, in combination with CH, had a significant impact on the mechanical characteristics of the root dentin. This effect was also observed in the MH, Eit, DC, quantification, and volume of gaps at the luting interface (P < .05). In general, a higher concentration of MB, whether activated by a red laser or not, led to lower values in the mechanical properties of the root dentin, as well as in MH, Eit, and DC at the adhesive interface (P < .05). Additionally, these groups exhibited higher values for quantification and volume of gaps at the luting substrate (P < .05). Scanning electron micrographs and energy dispersive X-ray spectra showed qualitative similarity among all groups, except for the negative experimental control group. Conclusions: MB-mediated aPDT at 50 mg/L, in combination with CH, demonstrated favorable physico-chemical and mechanical characteristics in intraradicular dentin, along with satisfactory mechanical features and the adhesive interface integrity for GFPs at all intraradicular depths. Clinical significance: MB-mediated aPDT at a concentration of 50 mg/L combined to CH medication represents a suitable choice for photosensitization in the context of intracanal disinfection following the biomechanical procedure and prior to luting of intraradicular restorations.

Elucidating the dynamics and transmission potential of the aquatic pathogen Renibacterium salmoninarum in Rainbow trout

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Introduction: Renibacterium salmoninarum (Rs) is a facultative intracellular bacterium and the aetiologic agent of bacterial kidney disease (BKD). This chronic infection is associated with severe mortality in salmonid fish worldwide. Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), the main species farmed in Denmark, is highly susceptible to Rs although the mechanisms of transmission and the chronic state of the infection are not yet fully understood. The disease represents one of the main health challenges in Recirculating Aquaculture systems (RAS).Methodology: Our study aimed to characterize disease kinetics and host survival through in-vivo cohabitation at 6°C and 12°C in RAS. Rainbow trout shedders were intraperitoneally injected with Rs (1x109, 1x108 cells dose-1) or saline water (control), and subjected to survival analysis during 12 weeks post-infection (wpi). Naïve fish were put in cohabitation with shedders to assess the transmission potential and bacterial kinetics through qPCR of bacterial DNA and environmental DNA (eDNA) extracted from fish kidney and water samples, respectively.Results: All challenged groups were susceptible to Rs, but only the shedders experienced reduced survival due to BKD. Reduced survival began at an earlier stage at 12°C, and the probability of surviving until the end of the trial was 16.10%, 5%, and 0% for the groups injected at low dose at 12°C, high dose at 12°C, and high dose at 6°C, respectively. Infection by cohabitation was established within 2 weeks, and abundance of bacterial transcripts was significantly higher at 4 wpi in the kidney of sampled fish in all infected groups. Interestingly, water eDNA analyses revealed bacterial shedding at its highest at 3 wpi and detected the bacteria at late infection sampling points. Moreover, Rs was reisolated in SKDM media from fish kidney samples also at the latest stage of infection at 6°C.Conclusion: Our results provide information on disease progression and transmission potential of BKD and insights into the chronic state of the infection. Here we also confirm the possibility to detect Rs in RAS at different infection stages. Overall, this study defines an infection model of Rs in rainbow trout, essential to further explore the underlying mechanisms of pathogenicity of the bacterium.

Health-related quality of life, jaw function and sleep-disordered breathing among patients with dentofacial deformity

Madhan, S., Nascimento, G. G., Ingerslev, J., et al. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 20:56:20 +0200

Background and Objectives: Patients with dentofacial deformity (DFD) requiring orthognathic treatment have poor aesthetics, jaw function and psychological well-being, which potentially affect the quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the health-related general, oral and orthognathic quality of life, jaw function and sleep-disordered breathing at different stages of orthognathic surgical treatment. Methods: A total of 120 consecutive patients with DFD were recruited and grouped as pre-orthodontic treatment (group 1), pre-surgery (group 2), 4 months post-surgery (group 3), 24 months post-surgery (group 4) and in addition 30 controls without DFD (group 0). Outcomes were assessed using general health Short Form Survey (SF-36), Oral Health Impact (OHIP-14), Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire (OQLQ), STOP-Bang and Jaw Function Limitation Scale (JFLS) questionnaires. In addition, presence or absence of pain was recorded. Data were tested with analysis of variance, Kruskal–Wallis test, Tukey post hoc test and structural equation modelling (SEM). Results: Results revealed SF-36 (p =.814) and STOP-Bang (p =.143) total scores did not differ between control and treatment groups. In contrast, OHIP-14, OQLQ and JFLS total scores differed between groups (p =.001). Higher scores were observed in groups 1 (p =.001), 2 (p =.001) and 3 (p =.041) compared to group 0, indicating poor oral health in patients with DFD. Importantly, in group 4, oral health-related quality of life was better, and OHIP-14 (p =.936) and JFLS (p =.572) scores did not differ from controls. OQLQ scores of group 4 were significantly lower than group 1 (p =.001) but higher than group 0 (p =.013). SEM results revealed a significant negative associations of pain with JFLS and OQLQ; OHIP-14 with OQLQ; OHIP-14 with SF-36; and finally STOP-Bang with SF-36. Positive associations were observed between JFLS and OHIP-14; OHIP-14 and OQLQ. Conclusion: Oral health-related quality of life and jaw function appears to be improved 24 months after orthognathic surgery. Pain and limitation in jaw function had a negative association with health-related quality of life.

Patterns of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae in different anatomical sites among Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) users in Brazil

Antonini, M., Vettore, M. V., Øgård-Repål, A., et al. — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Background: The presence of untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) significantly increases the chance of acquiring HIV. In Brazil, testing for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) among Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) users is insufficient, and syndromic treatment is a priority in clinical practice. Multi-site testing for CT/NG improves thescreening of asymptomatic cases and ensures timely treatment. Therefore, it is essential for HIV prevention. This study aims to test the importance of two-site testing for better screening of these pathogens and to determine whether the presence of symptoms is an indicator of CT/NG infection. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study carried out in four public infectious diseases clinics in São Paulo State, Brazil between January of 2022 and March of 2023. All participants had an anal swab and a first-pass or mid-stream urine collected for CT/NG analysis by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Data about sociodemographic, sexual behavioural and clinical aspects were collected. Pathway analysis was used to examine the direct and indirect relationships between variables according to the theoretical model. Results: We screened 171 PrEP users which had two samples collected, resulting in 342 samples. Comparing the anatomic sites, the urine samples showed lower sensitivity for CT and NG than anal samples. Gonorrhoea was directly linked to lower age (β= -0.161, p = 0.001). Time of PrEP use was directly associated with CT infection (β = 0.202; p = 0.042) and inversely associated with dysuria (β= -0.121, p = 0.009). Lower occurrence of yellow-green secretion was linked to detection of CT (β= -0.089, p = 0.005) and NG (β= -0.048, p = 0.002) infections. Foul-smelling discharge was directly associated with CT (β = 0.275, p = 0.004) and NG (β = 0.295, p = 0.037) infection. Conclusion: The symptoms are a bad indicator of CT and NG infection, and the screening must be done in more than one site since most of the positive results would be missed if only urines were tested. In the case of testing only one anatomical site, specifically the urethra, the CT/NG incidence and prevalence would be underestimated. The two-sites testing improves detection rates of CT/NG, and PrEP follow-up benefits people offering STI testing.

Stability, survival, patient satisfaction, and cost-minimization of CAD/CAM versus conventional multistranded fixed retainers in orthodontic patients

Pullisaar, H., Cattaneo, P. M., Gera, A., et al. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 20:56:20 +0200

Background: CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) fixed retainers (FRs) as an alternative to multistranded FRs to maintain orthodontic treatment outcome. Objectives: The primary aim was to compare CAD/CAM versus conventional multistranded FRs in terms of stability until 2 years. Secondary outcomes were failure rates, patient satisfaction, and cost-minimization. Trial design: 2-arm parallel, two-centre randomized controlled trial. Methods: Patients were randomized to CAD/CAM or conventional FRs in both arches, in a 1:1 ratio and blocks of four. Allocation concealment was secured by using sequentially numbered envelopes. Patients were blinded. FRs were bonded at the end of treatment, and patients were recalled after 12 and 24 months. First-time retainer failures were recorded and digital impressions were taken. Arch widths and lengths, as well as Little’s Irregularity Index (LII), were measured. Additionally, patients answered satisfaction questionnaires. Linear mixed models were applied for measurements and patient satisfaction. Survival analyses were estimated with Kaplan–Meier curves, along with Cox-regression modelling. Cost-minimization analysis was undertaken. Results: One hundred and eighty-one patients were randomized (98 in Centre 1, and 83 in Centre 2): 90 in CAD/CAM and 91 in conventional group. One hundred and fifty three patients attended T24 follow-up. There were no significant differences in LII and arch dimensions between groups for failure-free patients. Within 24 months, 34% maxillary CAD/CAM FRs and 38% maxillary conventional FRs failed, along with 42% mandibular CAD/CAM FRs and 40% mandibular conventional FRs, with no significant difference in survival between groups (hazard ratios conventional to CAD/CAM: maxillary arch: 1.20 [P = 0.46], mandibular arch: 0.98 [P = 0.94]). There were no significant differences in patient satisfaction between groups. No harms were observed. Cost-minimization analysis showed that CAD/CAM FRs were slightly cheaper than conventional FRs. Conclusions: There were no clinically significant differences in LII, arch widths, and lengths between CAD/CAM and conventional FRs after 24 months. There were no differences in failures and patient satisfaction between groups. CAD/CAM FRs were slightly cheaper than conventional FRs. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04389879.

Udredning og håndtering af bruksisme i børn og voksne

Castrillon, E. E., Haugaard Bendixen, K., Svensson, P. — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Det skal du vide - Tandblegning

Hornhaver, H., Bakhshandeh, A., Fløjborg, N. — Mon, 01 May 2023 20:56:20 +0200

The use of medicaments in the management of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis

Edwards, D., Rasaiah, S., Kirkevang, L., et al. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 20:56:20 +0200

AIM: To investigate patient outcomes from either pulpotomy or pulpectomy for the management of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis, with and without application of antibiotic/corticosteroid pastes in urgent primary dental care settings in the United Kingdom.

METHODOLOGY: All patients receiving intervention for symptomatic irreversible pulpitis in three different primary care settings were invited to participate. Pre-operatively, data regarding patients' numerical ratings scale (NRS), pain score (0-10), analgesic use, oral-health impact profile-14 (OHIP-14) and need for time away from work were collected. For 7 days post-operatively, participants recorded their NRS pain score, global rating of change score, medication use and their ability to work. Analysis used a mixed-effects model with post hoc Tukey's multiple comparisons test for continuous data and chi-squared or Fisher's exact test for categorical data. To test the effect of the corticosteroid/antibiotic paste, pulpectomy and pulpotomy groups were combined following Mantel-Haenszel stratified analysis or a weighted average of the difference between pulpotomy and pulpectomy with and without the use of corticosteroid/antibiotic paste. A binary composite score was constructed using pre- and post-operative data, whereby overall treatment success was defined as: (i) patients did not return for treatment due to pain by day seven; (ii) at day three, there was a 33% (or 2-points) reduction in NRS pain score; (iii) there was a change score of +3 in global rating; (iv) the patient was no longer using analgesia and able to return to work.

RESULTS: Eighty-five participants were recruited, with 83 completing follow up. Overall treatment success was 57%, with 25% of participants returning for more treatment due to inadequate pain relief. Overall treatment success did not differ between the two groups (p = .645), although patients self-reported greater improvement with an antibiotic/corticosteroid dressing for global rating of change (p = .015).

CONCLUSIONS: This study identified limited evidence of improved outcomes using antibiotic/corticosteroid dressings in the management of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis in the emergency setting. Further clinical research is needed to understand if these medications are beneficial in affording pain relief, above that of simple excision of irreversibly inflamed pulp tissue.

Combined pH ratiometry and fluorescence lectin-binding analysis (pH-FLBA) for microscopy-based analyses of biofilm pH and matrix carbohydrates

Del Rey, Y. C., Schramm, A., L Meyer, R., Lund, M. B., Schlafer, S. — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Bacterial biofilms have a complex and heterogeneous three-dimensional architecture that is characterized by chemically and structurally distinct microenvironments. Confocal microscopy-based pH ratiometry and fluorescence lectin-binding analysis (FLBA) are well-established methods to characterize pH developments and the carbohydrate matrix architecture of biofilms at the microscale. Here, we developed a combined analysis, pH-FLBA, to concomitantly map biofilm pH and the distribution of matrix carbohydrates in bacterial biofilms while preserving the biofilm microarchitecture. As a proof of principle, the relationship between pH and the presence of galactose- and fucose-containing matrix components was investigated in dental biofilms grown with and without sucrose. The pH response to a sucrose challenge was monitored in different areas at the biofilm base using the ratiometric pH-sensitive dye C-SNARF-4. Thereafter, the fucose- and galactose-specific fluorescently labeled lectins Aleuria aurantia lectin (AAL) and Morus nigra agglutinin G (MNA-G) were used to visualize carbohydrate matrix components in the same biofilm areas and their immediate surroundings. Sucrose during growth significantly decreased biofilm pH ( P < 0.05) and increased the amounts of both MNA-G- and AAL-targeted matrix carbohydrates ( P < 0.05). Moreover, it modulated the biofilm composition towards a less diverse community dominated by streptococci, as determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Altogether, these results suggest that the production of galactose- and fucose-containing matrix carbohydrates is related to streptococcal metabolism and, thereby, pH profiles in dental biofilms. In conclusion, pH-FLBA using lectins with different carbohydrate specificities is a useful method to investigate the association between biofilm pH and the complex carbohydrate architecture of bacterial biofilms.IMPORTANCEBiofilm pH is a key regulating factor in several biological and biochemical processes in environmental, industrial, and medical biofilms. At the microscale, microbial biofilms are characterized by steep pH gradients and an extracellular matrix rich in carbohydrate components with diffusion-modifying properties that contribute to bacterial acid-base metabolism. Here, we propose a combined analysis of pH ratiometry and fluorescence lectin-binding analysis, pH-FLBA, to concomitantly investigate the matrix architecture and pH developments in microbial biofilms, using complex saliva-derived biofilms as an example. Spatiotemporal changes in biofilm pH are monitored non-invasively over time by pH ratiometry, while FLBA with lectins of different carbohydrate specificities allows mapping the distribution of multiple relevant matrix components in the same biofilm areas. As the biofilm structure is preserved, pH-FLBA can be used to investigate the in situ relationship between the biofilm matrix architecture and biofilm pH in complex multispecies biofilms.

ASSESSMENT OF ALVEOLAR CLEFT REPAIR BEFORE AND AFTER BONE GRAFTING PROCEDURE USING A SOFTWARE FOR ANALYSIS OF INTRAORAL SCANNINGS: A NEW METHOD

Federici, M., Küseler, A., Nørholt, S. E., Botticelli, S. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

AIM: Secondary intermediate alveolar bone grafting (ABG), in the mixed dentition and before the eruption of the permanent canine, is considered the gold standard procedure to repair the residual cleft in the alveolar process in patients born with unilateral and bilateral clefts. The standard for outcome assessment of ABG is currently based on 2D conventional or 3D radiography (CBCT). The intrinsic limitations of these methods are superimpositions of anatomic structures for the 2D evaluation and higher radiation dose for the CBCT, that restricts its application for the post-surgical evaluation and monitoring over time.
The aim of this technical note was to propose a new method for 3D analysis of alveolar changes, based on intraoral scanning of the teeth, the alveolus, and the palate and to assess its intra and inter-examiner reliability. The rationale was to find a non-invasive methodology to add 3D information to conventional 2D radiography.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: a total of 22 consecutive patients with UCLP or UCLA, undergoing ABG in the same cleft center by two calibrated surgeons and according to the same protocol involving symphyseal bone, received intraoral scanning of the upper jaw before surgery and 3-4 months post-surgery. A standardized coordinate system was established to perform linear measurements of alveolar thickness and alveolar height at four levels. STL-based registration of the digital models and color heat-maps were performed for qualitative assessment of the volumetric changes (Orthoanalyzer-3Shape®). Intra and inter-examiner repeatability of the measurements were assessed by ICC correlation analysis. The technical error of the method (TEM) was calculated with the Dahlberg formula and systematic bias was verified by Bland-Altmann plots.
RESULTS: The ICC ranged from 0.967 to 0.999. The TEM was very low, ranging from 0.09 to 0.20mm for the intra-examiner and a maximum of 0.40 for the inter-examiner. No systematic bias could be proved.
CONCLUSIONS: The reported analyses based on intraoral dental scanning revealed highly reliable. This novel methodology offers the opportunity to integrate conventional 2D radiography with 3D information based on non-ionizing methods and can, therefore, be repeated to monitor ABG results over time.

Glandular Odontogenic Cyst

Gorgis, R., Christian Krarup, S. A., Reibel, J., Nørholt, S. E. — Sat, 01 Apr 2023 20:56:20 +0200

BACKGROUND: The glandular odontogenic cyst is now a well-known entity comprising < 0.5% of all odontogenic cysts with a recent review tabulating about 200 cases in the English literature. Glandular odontogenic cyst shows epithelial features that simulate salivary gland or glandular differentiation. The importance of glandular odontogenic cyst relates to the fact that it has a high recurrence rate and shares overlapping histologic features with central mucoepidermoid carcinoma. The purpose of this paper is to describe the clinical, radiological, and histopathological features of a case of glandular odontogenic cyst with the course of treatment and 9-years follow-up, followed by a review of the literature.

METHODS: A 63-year-old male was referred for further investigation of a mandibular radiolucency observed by his general dental practitioner. The main complaint was a murmuring sensation in the lower jaw right side. Radiological examination revealed a well-defined, unilocular, radiolucent lesion, involving the right mandible with 17 and 68 mm in mediolaterally and anteroposterior dimension, respectively.

RESULTS: A total enucleation of the cystic lesion and surgical extraction of tooth #46, #47 and #48, was performed under local anaesthesia. Histopathologic examination revealed a glandular odontogenic cyst.

CONCLUSIONS: Glandular odontogenic cyst shows no pathognomonic clinico-radiographic characteristics, and therefore in many cases it resembles a wide spectrum of lesions. Diagnosis can be extremely difficult due to histopathological similarities with dentigerous cyst, lateral periodontal cyst and central mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Therefore a careful histopathological examination and a long-term follow-up (preferably seven years) are required to rule out recurrences.

Comparison of force profiles from two musculoskeletal palpation methods

Pillai, R. S., Kothari, S. F., Svensson, P., Castrillon, E. — Wed, 01 May 2024 20:56:20 +0200

BACKGROUND: The Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) protocol recommends a 5 s and 1 kg force dynamic palpation around the lateral condylar pole of the temporomandibular joint. However, the accuracy and precision of the generated force are not known.

OBJECTIVE: To assess and compare the force profiles generated from dynamic palpation manually and using a palpometer, based on the forces and time recommendations suggested by the DC/TMD protocol.

METHODS: Nineteen healthy adults applied forces of 0.5 kg, 1.0 kg and 2.0 kg on a calibrated force sensor in a circular motion within target times of 2 s and 5 s. Participants used their right index finger for manual palpation and a calibrated palpometer for device-assisted palpation. Ten repetitions of each target force at both target times were applied. Time taken to complete each application was recorded. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used for analysis of accuracy measured as the relative difference between targeted force and actual force values and precision measured as the coefficient of variation (CV) within the 10 repeated measurements.

RESULTS: Accuracy was significantly lower (better) and precision higher (lower CV) with the palpometer than with manual palpation (p < .001). There were significant differences in accuracy and precision between the different forces but not palpation times. Most participants could not achieve the target times and tended to be faster, irrespective of the palpation method (p > .063).

CONCLUSION: A palpometer is a more accurate and precise palpation method for dynamic force assessment compared to manual palpation; however, it remains difficult to standardize the palpation duration.

Pleasantness and unpleasantness in somatosensory investigation

Taneja, P., Bisgaard, A. E., Kristensen, E., et al. — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Background: Qualitative sensory testing (QualST) is a simple, standardised, chairside method for evaluating somatosensory function; however, testing focuses on detection of cold, touch and pain with no recognition of perceptions of pleasantness and unpleasantness. Objectives: The study aimed to utilise the stimuli in QualST, with the addition of a soft brush, to investigate stimulus-evoked perceptions of pleasantness and unpleasantness on the facial skin and if any side-to-side differences. Additional aims were to determine the inter- and intra-rater reliability using the modified QualST protocol and in the side-to-side differences. Methods: Thirty healthy adult female participants underwent three sessions of sensitivity testing as per the modified QualST protocol. Stimuli were applied bilaterally to the facial skin, and participants provided separate yes/no responses for presence of stimulus-evoked pleasantness, unpleasantness and/or differences between sides. Results: The stimuli were able to evoke sensations of pleasantness and unpleasantness with little differences in responses between the Q-tip and goat hair brush for the perceptions. Side-to-side differences in evoked perceptions were observed and greatest, when evaluating for pinprick-evoked unpleasantness (range between sessions = 18–19 participants). Acceptable percentage (≥90%) and excellent Cohen's Kappa (≥0.762) inter- and intra-rater agreements were identified for one or more positive responses for each stimulus modality and the targeted perception. Conclusion: The modified QualST protocol provides a simple, reproducible method for the investigation of perceptions of pleasantness and unpleasantness, with readily accessible instrumentation to dental professionals and allowing for a more holistic approach in somatosensory testing.

Does using the sociodental approach in oral health care influence use of dental services and oral health of adolescents living in deprived communities? a one-year follow up study

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Background: Oral health needs assessment is important for oral health care planning. This study compared dental treatment needs between normative and sociodental needs. We also longitudinally examined the relationships of baseline sociodental needs measures and socioeconomic status with one-year follow up measures of use of dental services, dental caries, filled teeth, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Methods: A prospective study was conducted with 12-year-old adolescents from public schools in deprived communities in the city of Manaus, Brazil. Validated questionnaires were used to collect adolescents’ sex and socioeconomic status, OHRQoL (CPQ_{11 − 14}) and behaviours (sugar intake, frequency of toothbrushing, regular use of fluoridated toothpaste and pattern of dental attendance). Normative need was assessed according to decayed teeth, clinical consequences of untreated dental caries, malocclusion, dental trauma, and dental calculus. The relationships between variables were tested thorough Structural equation modelling. Results: Overall 95.5% of adolescents had normative dental treatment needs. Of these, 9.4% were classified as high level of propensity. Higher normative/impact need and greater propensity-related need directly predicted use of dental services at one-year follow up. The latter mediated the association of normative/impact need and propensity-related need with incidence of dental caries and filled teeth. Normative/impact need and use of dental services were directly associated with filled teeth at one-year follow up. Poor OHRQoL at one-year follow-up was directly predicted by higher normative/impact need at baseline and less filled teeth at one-year follow up. Greater socioeconomic status was directly associated with better propensity-related need. Socioeconomic status indirectly predicted incidence of dental caries and filled teeth via propensity-related need and use of dental services. Conclusions: Sociodental needs measures were related to use of dental services, dental caries, filled teeth and OHRQoL after one year among adolescents living in deprived communities. Adolescents with dental needs treatment priorities according to the sociodental approach had more filled teeth via use of dental services. Dental services utilisation did not attenuate the impact of normative and impact-related need on dental caries incidence and poor OHRQoL after one year. Our findings suggest the importance of developing oral health promotion and enhancing access to dental care to improve oral health of adolescents living in deprived communities.

Emaljeforandringer og fejlernæring

Lovschall, H. — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Emaljedysplasi eller dentinanomali?

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Om genetisk betingede misdannelser af emalje eller dentin, hhv. amelogenesis imperfecta og dentinogenesis imperfecta

How Brazilian oral health care workers face COVID-19:

Palma, L. Z., Bitencourt, F. V., Ricardo Velho, G. ., et al. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Oral and systemic health in Singapore

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 20:56:20 +0200

Objectives
This study aimed to identify studies exploring oral and systemic conditions using Singapore data.

Methods
Studies were searched using the databases PubMed, Embase and Web of Science, with no publication date or language restrictions. Studies analysing Singaporean data were included in this review.

Results
Six domains were identified: pregnancy and gingivitis; tooth eruption, dental caries and early-life factors; Crohn's disease and oral microbiome; diabetes and periodontal diseases; number of teeth, chewing ability and cognitive status; and oral health and pneumonia. Using data from Singapore, oral-systemic studies have prompted reflections on the aetiopathogenesis of oral disorders, such as common causes connecting oral and systemic chronic conditions. Moreover, it is speculated whether oral conditions could be used as a marker to predict future systemic diseases or whether early-life factors could affect the development of oral and systemic immune responses.

Conclusions
While Singapore provides opportunities to explore challenges connected to healthy ageing, it also explores health development in many stages of life. Singapore has been prioritizing investigations on a healthier life, and new initiatives are paving the way for oral health research across the lifespan.

ALGORITMOS DE REDUÇÃO DE ARTEFATOSEM TOMOGRAFIA COMPUTADORIZADA DE FEIXE CÔNICO NA AVALIAÇÃO DEIMPLANTES DENTAIS E CANAL MANDIBULAR

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 20:56:20 +0200

Deep Learning in Image Processing

Pauwels, R., Iosifidis, A. — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 20:56:20 +0100

The digital dental workflow involves the use of several types of images, including two-dimensional (radiographs, photographs), 3D tomographic (computed tomography, cone-beam computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound), and 3D mesh-type (intra-oral scans, facial scans) data. While the combined use of these various imaging modalities augments the diagnostic and treatment process, it can be challenging to make optimal use of them. Deep learning (DL) has shown tremendous potential for image processing tasks and is progressively being integrated within the clinical workflow. The previous chapter described neural networks with particular use in image processing, as well as applications in image segmentation. This chapter looks at applications of DL in image enhancement, image reconstruction and image registration. Some of the applications in this chapter are somewhat more exploratory, in the sense that higher-level diagnostic efficacy remains to be assessed. This field is expected to continue evolving in the following years; whether the optimal approach is to have DL methods operate fully independently or in combination with existing image processing techniques remains to be seen.

Deep Learning in Image Processing

Pauwels, R., Iosifidis, A. — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 20:56:20 +0100

Image processing is an essential component of the clinical workflow and is used at several stages to improve the diagnostic process and facilitate treatment planning. It can be broadly defined as the application of transformations to digital images, typically with the aim of enhancing the image or extracting relevant information from it. Common examples of medical image processing techniques are (1) image segmentation, i.e., the partitioning of images into several distinct regions; (2) image enhancement, e.g., noise reduction, sharpness enhancement, and artifact correction; (3) tomographic reconstruction, e.g., in computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging; and (4) registration, i.e., spatial matching of multiple images. Recent innovations in the field of artificial intelligence, especially deep learning (DL), have resulted in a wide variety of potential applications in medical image processing. DL models, mostly trained using supervised learning, can offer several benefits over alternative (semi-)automated or manual approaches, owing to their accuracy, robustness, and speed. This chapter will provide an overview of neural networks used in image-to-image processing and will describe principles and applications of DL and unsupervised clustering in image segmentation. The next chapter will focus on DL applications in image enhancement, reconstruction, and registration.

Prevention and treatment of peri-implant diseases-The EFP S3 level clinical practice guideline

Herrera, D., Berglundh, T., Schwarz, F., et al. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Dental-dedicated MRI (ddMRI) for diagnosis in endodontics

Christensen, J. H., Kruse, C., Johannsen, K. M., et al. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Magnetisk resonans

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Kort kommentar til studie omtalt i Tandlægebladet

Matzen, L. H., Petersen, L. B. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Studerende OG undervisere involveret i udvikling af nye feedbackpraksisser – potentialer og udfordringer

Lindelof, D., Hornhaver, H. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Will supplemental cone beam computed tomography change the treatment plan of impacted maxillary canines based on 2D radiogrpahy? A prospective clinical study

Videbæk, A., Stoustrup, P. B., Wenzel, A., Matzen, L. H. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Does suppplemental information from CBCT change the treatment plan for teeth with external cervikal resorption?

Villefrance, J. S., Kirkevang, L., Wenzel, A., Væth, M., Matzen, L. H. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Predictive factors observed in intraoral images for a change in treatment plan of teeth with external cervical resorption

Matzen, L. H., Kirkevang, L., Wenzel, A., Væth, M., Villefrance, J. S. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Information om ortodontisk behandling på danske tandklinikkers hjemmesider

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Da stadig flere privatpraktiserende tandlæger tilbyder ortodontisk behandling på voksne, satte en forskergruppe sig for at kvalitetsvurdere oplysninger på danske klinikkers hjemmesider om ortodontisk behandling, herunder at undersøge klinikkernes argumenter for brugen af clear aligners

Radiographic imaging in implant dentistry

Stavropoulos, A., Bertl, K., Beck, F., Cattaneo, P. M., Wenzel, A. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Radiographic outcome after maxillary sinus floor augmentation with allogeneic adipose tissue-derived stem cells seeded on deproteinized bovine bone mineral. A randomized controlled experimental study

Mon, 01 May 2023 20:56:20 +0200

The objective was to test the hypothesis of no difference in radiographic outcome after maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MSFA) with allogeneic adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs) seeded on deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) (test) compared with excipient on DBBM (control). Eighteen minipigs were assigned into three groups of six animals and euthanised after one month (T1), two months (T2), and four months (T3), respectively. Each maxillary sinus was randomly allocated to either test or control with an equal volume of graft. Computed tomography scans (CTs) after MSFA (T0) were compared with CTs after euthanasia to evaluate graft volume (GV) changes and bone density (BD) using three-dimensional measurements and Hounsfield units. GV was larger in test compared with control at T1 (P = 0.046), whereas GV was larger in control compared with test at T3 (P = 0.01). BD increased from T0 to T1-T3 (P < 0.001) with both treatments. Higher BD was observed in control compared with test at T3 (P = 0.01), while no significant difference was observed at T1 and T2. Conclusively, the present study demonstrate that allogeneic ASCs seeded on DBBM in conjunction with MSFA seemed not to improve the radiographic outcome compared with excipient on DBBM. However, radiological outcomes need to be supplemented by bone histomorphometry before definitive conclusions can be provided about the beneficial use of allogeneic ASCs seeded on DBBM in conjunction with MSFA compared with DBBM alone.

Endo-sinus bone gain following sinus membrane elevation without graft compared with sinus floor augmentation and a composite graft

Starch-Jensen, T., Bruun, N. H., Spin-Neto, R. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 20:56:20 +0200

The objective of this study was to assess endo-sinus bone gain (ESBG) and bone density (BD) following maxillary sinus membrane elevation without graft (test) compared with maxillary sinus floor augmentation and 1:1 ratio of autogenous bone from the buccal antrostomy and deproteinized porcine bone mineral (control) using two- and three-dimensional radiographic methods. Forty healthy patients were randomly allocated to the test and control groups. Cone beam computed tomography scans were obtained at enrolment (T0), immediately after surgery (T1), at delivery of the prosthetic rehabilitation (T2), and 1 year after functional implant loading (T3). Mean differences were expressed with the 95% confidence interval. Significance was set at ≤ 0.05. ESBG and BD were significantly higher in the control group than test group at T1, T2, and T3 (P < 0.001). A significant decrease in ESBG and increase in BD was observed from T1 to T3 with both treatments (P < 0.001). There was a non-significant positive correlation of ESBG with implant protrusion length and non-significant negative correlation with residual bone height. In conclusion, test was associated with significantly lower ESBG and BD compared with control. However, the lower ESBG and BD did not appear to negatively affect the implant stability quotient or implant treatment outcome after 1 year of functional implant loading.

A pilot study comparing optical coherence tomography, radiography, clinical photography, and polarisation microscopy for studies of hypomineralisation disturbances in enamel

Solgaard Henriksen, J., Lauridsen, E., Gjørup, H., et al. — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 20:56:20 +0100

Aim: To investigate the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) as a tool to assess general and localised hypomineralisation defects in the enamel. Design and Materials: Ten extracted permanent teeth (four teeth with localised hypomineralisation, four teeth with general hypomineralisation, and two healthy controls) were used in this study. In addition, four participants who underwent OCT served as living controls for the extracted teeth. Methods: The OCT results were compared with clinical photographs, digital radiographs, and polarising microscopy images of tooth sections (considered the gold standard) to determine the method with the most accurate information regarding the extent of enamel disturbances: 1) visibility of enamel disturbance (visible yes/no); if yes, 2) extent of the disturbance in the enamel; and 3) determination of the plausible involvement of the underlying dentin. Results: OCT was more accurate than digital radiography and visual assessment. OCT could provide information about the extent of localised hypomineralised disturbances in the enamel that was comparable to that with polarisation microscopy of the tooth sections. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this pilot study, it can be concluded that OCT is suitable for investigating and evaluating localised hypomineralisation disturbances; however, it is less useful in cases with generalised hypomineralisation of the enamel. In addition, OCT complements radiographic examination of enamel; however, more studies are necessary to elucidate the full extent of the use of OCT in case of hypomineralisation.

Fluoride-modified implant surfaces improves osseointegration in the tibias of rats with induced diabetes

Oliveira, G. J. P. L. d., Fontanari, L. A., Souza, J. A. C. d., et al. — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:56:20 +0100

This study evaluated the influence of a fluoride-modified titanium surface on osseointegration in rats with induced diabetes. One hundred and eighty rats were randomly allocated into 3 groups with 60 animals each: Control group (C): Animals without diabetes; Diabetes Group (D): Animals with uncontrolled induced diabetes; Controlled Diabetes Group (CD): Animals with diabetes induced controlled by the insulin administration. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin injection. Each animal received 2 implants in the proximal tibial metaphysis, one with the machined surface (M) and the other one with a fluoride-modified titanium surface (F), after 4 weeks of induction of diabetes. The animals were submitted to euthanasia 2, 4, and 6 weeks after the implant placement (n = 20 animals/group). The osseointegration was evaluated by the implant removal torque test and the histometric analysis of the non-decalcified histological sections: 1) Contact bone/implant (%BIC); 2) Bone tissue area between implant threads (%BBT). Implants with F surface showed a higher removal torque than implants with surface M in all groups. There was no difference in %BIC between the groups regardless of the surface used. The F surface showed a tendency to present higher %BBT values for the 3 evaluation periods in the D group. The fluoride-modified implant surface has no impact on the %BIC and %BBT. However, the fluoride-modified implant surface increases the locking of the implants with the bone. The hyperglycemia was associated with lower removal torque values despite the surfaces of the implant used.