Comparative Analysis of Heavy Metal Content in Impacted Third Molars from Industrial and Non-Industrial Areas and Its Effect on the Isolation, Culture, and Proliferation of Dental Stem Cells (DSCs).

Background: This study investigates the impact of environmental pollution on the quality and viability of dental stem cells (DSCs) from impacted third molars. By comparing DSCs from patients in industrial areas with high air pollution and those from non-industrial regions, the research assesses the adverse effects of heavy metals on stem cell proliferation. Methods: Impacted lower third molars were collected from 28 patients-10 from industrial and 18 from non-industrial areas. Patients were divided into two age groups: 18-27 years and 28-38 years old. Dental pulp was extracted under sterile conditions, and DSCs were isolated and cultured. Heavy metal concentrations in dental tissues were measured using atomic absorption/emission spectrometry. Results: The study found significantly higher concentrations of copper and lead in the dental tissues of patients in industrial areas. Cell viability was lower in samples from these areas, with a statistically significant difference in average doubling time and the number of cells obtained after the first passage. There was no significant impact of gender on heavy metal content, except for higher iron levels in men. Conclusions: Exposure to industrial pollutants negatively affects the viability and proliferation of DSCs, but there are no differences in differentiation in the osteogenic medium regarding cell mineralization. These studies highlight the importance of environmental factors for oral health, suggesting that residents of polluted areas may face greater difficulties in dental and regenerative treatments. Further research is needed to develop strategies to mitigate the effects and improve clinical outcomes for affected populations.

Revolutionizing Bone Regeneration with Grinder-Based Dentin Biomaterial: A Systematic Review.

Bone tissue regeneration is a critical aspect of dental surgery, given the common occurrence of bone resorption leading to alveolar bone defects. The aim of this paper was to conduct a systematic review to provide a comprehensive summary of the evidence regarding the regenerative properties of dentin biomaterial. This systematic review was conducted through comprehensive searches in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, as well as an extensive exploration of the gray literature sources, including WorldCat, The New York Academy of Medicine Library, and Trip Database, following the established PRISMA protocol. Keywords such as tooth, dentin, grinder, and autograft guided the search, with a focus on a standardized procedure involving dentin grinders within laboratory, experimental, and clinical settings. Initially, a pool of 1942 articles was identified with 452 duplicates removed. An additional 1474 articles were excluded for not aligning with the predefined topics, and three more were excluded due to the unavailability of the full text. Ultimately, 13 articles met the strict inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The chemical composition of the dentin particles was similar to natural bone in terms of oxygen, carbon, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and magnesium content, as well as in terms of the Ca/P ratio. In addition, the dentin also contained amide I and amide II structures, as well as aliphatic and hydroxyl functional groups. The chemically treated dentin was free of microorganisms. The dentin had characteristic tubules that opened after chemical treatment. At the cellular level, dentin released bone morphogenetic protein 2, induced significant cell growth, and stimulated the reorganization of the fibroblast cytoskeleton. Most clinical studies have focused on alveolar bone regeneration. After the transplantation of demineralized dentin particles, studies have observed new bone formation, a reduction in residual bone, and an increase in connective tissue. Clinical reports consistently indicate uncomplicated healing and recovery post-transplantation. However, there is a notable gap in the evidence concerning complication rates, patient-reported outcomes, and the presence of pro-inflammatory factors. In conclusion, dentin biomaterial emerges as a versatile bone substitute, demonstrating high biocompatibility and ease of acquisition. The preservation of its internal structure containing organic matter and growth factors enhances its potential for effective bone regeneration. Particularly, in dental surgery, dentin-derived materials present a promising alternative to traditional autologous bone autografts, offering the potential to reduce patient morbidity and treatment costs.

Studies on the content of toxic metals in teeth: A narrative review of literature.

The presence of toxic metals in the human environment can have detrimental effects on people's wellbeing. This literature review examines the ways in which various environmental and non-environmental factors can contribute to the accumulation of heavy metals in hard dental tissues. It is of the utmost importance to ensure the safety of the environment by restricting the presence of toxic metals originating from both industrial and non-industrial sources. The aim of this study is to analyze current research and identify the primary sources of heavy metal exposure and the mechanisms by which these metals are deposited in dental tissues. Moreover, the objective of this review is to synthesize data from various studies to determine the main environmental and non-environmental sources of toxic metal exposure that contribute to their presence in dental tissues, as well as the biological and chemical processes that are responsible for the deposition of heavy metals in hard dental tissues. Additionally, the review aims to assess the impact of heavy metal accumulation on dental health and its potential systemic effects on overall well-being. The accumulation of heavy metals in the teeth is influenced by a number of factors, such as age, systemic conditions, the nutritional status, and dental caries. The presence of supernumerary teeth results in altered levels of microelements, including an increase in cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu). Additionally, smoking exacerbates toxic metal accumulation, especially Cd and lead (Pb), and disrupts the balance of essential minerals within the teeth. These findings underscore the impact of environmental pollution on dental health and highlight the potential of teeth as biomarkers of environmental exposure, emphasizing the need for continued research to address the health risks associated with environmental toxins.

Quantification of collective signalling in time-lapse microscopy images.

Live-cell imaging of fluorescent biosensors has demonstrated that space-time correlations in signalling of cell collectives play an important organisational role in morphogenesis, wound healing, regeneration, and maintaining epithelial homeostasis. Here, we demonstrate how to quantify one such phenomenon, namely apoptosis-induced ERK activity waves in the MCF10A epithelium. We present a protocol that starts from raw time-lapse fluorescence microscopy images and, through a sequence of image manipulations, ends with ARCOS, our computational method to detect and quantify collective signalling. We also describe the same workflow in the interactive napari image viewer to quantify collective phenomena for users without prior programming experience. Our approach can be applied to space-time correlations in cells, cell collectives, or communities of multicellular organisms, in 2D and 3D geometries.

Bone Regeneration Capabilities of Scaffolds Containing Chitosan and Nanometric Hydroxyapatite-Systematic Review Based on In Vivo Examinations.

In this systematic review, the authors aimed to investigate the state of knowledge on in vivo evaluations of chitosan and nanometric hydroxyapatite (nanohydroxyapatite, nHAp) scaffolds for bone-tissue regeneration. In March 2024, an electronic search was systematically conducted across the PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases using the keywords (hydroxyapatite) AND (chitosan) AND (scaffold) AND (biomimetic). Methodologically, the systematic review followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) protocol to the letter. Initially, a total of 375 studies were screened, and 164 duplicates were removed. A further 188 articles were excluded because they did not correspond to the predefined topics, and an additional 3 articles were eliminated due to the inability to obtain the full text. The final compilation included 20 studies. All publications indicated a potential beneficial effect of the scaffolds in in vivo bone defect repair. A beneficial effect of hydroxyapatite as a scaffold component was observed in 16 studies, including greater mechanical resistance, cellular differentiation, and enhanced bone damage regeneration. The addition of chitosan and apatite ceramics, which combined the strengths of both materials, had the potential to become a useful bone-tissue engineering material.

Traumatic Neuroma of the Hard Palate Mimicking a Small Salivary Gland Tumor-A Case Report.

In the case of any pathologies arising in the hard palate, it is always important to exclude their possible odontogenic origins. Cone-beam computed tomography is mandatory. In cases where a possible non-teeth-related pathology is confirmed, each clinician should remember possible differential diagnostics. Many small salivary glands between the mucosa and bone are present in this palatal area. Both benign and malignant tumors arising from the small glands, and mucosa of the hard palate, might occur. The case presented here mimics a solid tumor because of the nodule consistency. Because of a healthy palatal mucosa without any erosions or irritations with firm attachment to the submucosal nodule, a possible malignant tumor of small salivary gland origins was suspected in this case. When the tumor diameter is small, an excisional biopsy is required to collect good and representative material for further histopathological evaluation. In most cases, bulky nodules present on the palate are hard on palpation, non-movable, and covered with healthy mucosa. Possible bone infiltrations with mucous membrane ulcerations could manifest a more expansive character of the lesion. In the presented case, an unusual occurrence of a traumatic neuroma without any past traumatic etiology of the palate was first differentiated from the occurrence of adenoid-cystic carcinoma (ACC), pleomorphic adenoma, other benign/malignant small gland tumors, or atypical, fibroma/schwannoma of the palate. This paper presents treatment options for this rare oral neural tumor occurrence in the palate and differential diagnosis between hard palate tumors in a 42-year-old male patient, furthermore highlighting the role of an excisional biopsy as a good source for a tissue sample.

Three-Dimensional-Printed Modular Titanium Alloy Plates for Osteosynthesis of the Jawbone.

BACKGROUNDS: The titanium-aluminum-vanadium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) is frequently used in implantology due to its biocompatibility. The use of 3D printing enables the mechanical modification of implant structures and the adaptation of their shape to the specific needs of individual patients. METHODS: The titanium alloy plates were designed using the 3D CAD method and printed using a 3D SLM printer. Qualitative tests were performed on the material surface using a microcomputed tomography scanner. The cytotoxicity of the modular titanium plates was investigated using the MTT assay on the L929 cell line and in direct contact with Balb/3T3 cells. Cell adhesion to the material surface was evaluated with hFOB1.19 human osteoblasts. Microbial biofilm formation was investigated on strains of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans using the TTC test and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS: The surface analysis showed the hydrophobic nature of the implant. The study showed that the titanium plates had no cytotoxic properties. In addition, the material surface showed favorable properties for osteoblast adhesion. Among the microorganisms tested, the strains of S. mutans and S. epidermidis showed the highest adhesion capacity to the plate surface, while the fungus C. albicans showed the lowest adhesion capacity. CONCLUSIONS: The manufactured modular plates have properties that are advantageous for the implantation and reduction in selected forms of microbial biofilm. Three-dimensional-printed modular titanium plates were investigated in this study and revealed the potential clinical application of this type of materials, regarding lack of cytotoxicity, high adhesion properties for osteoblasts and reduction in biofilm formation. The 3D CAD method allows us to personalise the shape of implants for individual patients.

Analysis of Tomographic Images of a Catastrophic Gas Embolism during Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a commonly performed minimally invasive procedure. Air embolism in a patient undergoing ERCP is relatively rare, accounting for approximately 2-3% of procedures performed, and a catastrophic air embolism is even rarer. Symptoms of air embolism can come from the cardiopulmonary and nervous system. It is important to remember this in the differential diagnosis of complications of ERCP, as early detection is crucial. In the case presented here, the diagnostic CT scan performed immediately after the incident brings awareness of how massive an air embolism can be. The CT results showed gas bubbles entering both the superior and inferior vena cava. The presence of air has been captured in the bile ducts, duodenum wall, heart, femoral veins and intracranially. Risk factors for this complication include previous biliary surgeries, the presence of prostheses and stents, cholangitis, liver tumors and anatomical anomalies such as hepatobiliary fistulas, as well as intrahepatic and extrahepatic anatomical leaks. As gas embolism is associated with serious health consequences, knowledge of the problem and adequate preparation may reduce the occurrence of the problem. Attention should be paid to basic and easily obtainable precautions when performing the procedure, such as the patient's hemodynamic status, adequate hydration and positioning during the procedure.

Design, clinical applications and post-surgical assessment of bioresorbable 3D-printed craniofacial composite implants.

This study details the design, fabrication, clinical trials' evaluation, and analysis after the clinical application of 3D-printed bone reconstruction implants made of nHAp@PLDLLA [nanohydroxyapatite@poly(L-lactide-co-D,L-lactide)] biomaterial. The 3D-printed formulations have been tested as bone reconstruction Cranioimplants in 3 different medical cases, including frontal lobe, mandibular bone, and cleft palate reconstructions. Replacing one of the implants after 6 months provided a unique opportunity to evaluate the post-surgical implant obtained from a human patient. This allowed us to quantify physicochemical changes and develop a spatial map of osseointegration and material degradation kinetics as a function of specific locations. To the best of our knowledge, hydrolytic degradation and variability in the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the biomimetic, 3D-printed implants have not been quantified in the literature after permanent placement in the human body. Such analysis has revealed the constantly changing properties of the implant, which should be considered to optimize the design of patient-specific bone substitutes. Moreover, it has been proven that the obtained composition can produce biomimetic, bioresorbable and bone-forming alloplastic substitutes tailored to each patient, allowing for shorter surgery times and faster patient recovery than currently available methods.

Late Outcomes of Undiagnosed Unilateral Condylar Hyperplasia and Reoccurrence of Mandibular Asymmetry.

Unilateral condylar hyperplasia (UCH) is a rare cause of asymmetrical mandibular overgrowth because of the presence of an atypical growth in the affected condyle. SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) can easily establish the presence of an atypical, prolonged growth exceeding far beyond normal condylar growth and activity. A CT, CBCT, or LDCT (computed tomography, cone-beam computed tomography, or low-dose computed tomography) can confirm the diagnosis by evaluating the scope of bone overgrowth, mandibular basis/ramus asymmetry, tendency to condylar head enlargement, changes in bone density, and occurrence of differences in condylar head shapes, size, and bone structure. In most cases, a condylectomy is the procedure of choice in growing cases of UCH to remove the pathological condyle and reduce asymmetry levels. Sometimes, the growth is very slow and progressive over time, causing slowly growing asymmetry with similar symptoms to any other mandibular asymmetry, and this causes some troublesome procedures in UCH diagnostics, resulting in patients being underdiagnosed; it can even lead to some relapses in mandibular asymmetry and skeletal malocclusion after previously performed orthodontic and surgical treatment of such discrepancies. When the source of asymmetry is not identified in time, possible inadequate treatment protocols can be used. If any relapse of facial and mandibular asymmetry re-occur, SPECT and CT evaluation are necessary to evaluate if condylar hyperplasia is present and to establish what kind of surgical intervention should be used in each case.

A Molecular Approach for Detecting Bacteria and Fungi in Healthcare Environment Aerosols: A Systematic Review.

Molecular methods have become integral to microbiological research for microbial identification. This literature review focuses on the application of molecular methods in examining airborne bacteria and fungi in healthcare facilities. In January 2024, a comprehensive electronic search was carried out in esteemed databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, employing carefully selected keywords such as ((bacteria) OR (virus) OR (fungi)) AND (aerosol) AND ((hospital) OR (healthcare) OR (dental office)) AND ((molecular) OR (PCR) OR (NGS) OR (RNA) OR (DNA) OR (metagenomic) OR (microarray)), following the PRISMA protocol. The review specifically targets healthcare environments with elevated concentrations of pathogenic bacteria. A total of 487 articles were initially identified, but only 13 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The study disclosed that the prevalent molecular methodology for appraising aerosol quality encompassed the utilization of the PCR method, incorporating either 16S rRNA (bacteria) or 18S rRNA (fungi) amplification techniques. Notably, five diverse molecular techniques, specifically PFGE, DGGE, SBT, LAMP, and DNA hybridization methods, were implemented in five distinct studies. These molecular tests exhibited superior capabilities compared to traditional bacterial and fungal cultures, providing precise strain identification. Additionally, the molecular methods allowed the detection of gene sequences associated with antibiotic resistance. In conclusion, molecular testing offers significant advantages over classical microbiological culture, providing more comprehensive information.

The Influence of Fluoride Gels on the Physicochemical Properties of Tooth Tissues and Dental Materials-A Systematic Review.

The aim of the presented systematic review is to update the state of knowledge and relate the properties and composition of fluoride gels to their potential application. This article aims to explore the effect of fluoride gel application on changes in the properties of dental biomaterials and tooth tissues. The review includes articles assessing studies on the effects of fluoride gel on dental tissues and materials. Employing the PRISMA protocol, a meticulous search was conducted across the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, utilizing keywords such as fluoride, gel, and properties. The publications were selected without limitation by the year of publication, and then Cohen's κ test was used to assess the agreement of the respondents. Exclusion criteria included non-English studies, opinion pieces, editorial papers, letters to the editor, review articles and meta-analyses, clinical reports, studies lacking full-text accessibility, and duplicates. The quality of the chosen papers was assessed by two independent reviewers. A total of 2385 were located in databases, of which only 17 met the inclusion criteria. All publications showed increased surface mineralization, and seven studies showed the effect of fluoride gel on the surface of dental tissues. Three articles stated a negative effect of fluoride gels on titanium and stainless steel alloys and glass ionomer fillings. The effects on shear bond strength and plaque deposition require further investigation because the study results are contradictory.

Surface Functionalization of Titanium-Based Implants with a Nanohydroxyapatite Layer and Its Impact on Osteoblasts: A Systematic Review.

This study aims to evaluate the influence of a nanohydroxyapatite layer applied to the surface of titanium or titanium alloy implants on the intricate process of osseointegration and its effect on osteoblast cell lines, compared to uncoated implants. Additionally, the investigation scrutinizes various modifications of the coating and their consequential effects on bone and cell line biocompatibility. On the specific date of November 2023, an exhaustive electronic search was conducted in esteemed databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, utilizing the meticulously chosen keywords ((titanium) AND ((osteoblasts) and hydroxyapatite)). Methodologically, the systematic review meticulously adhered to the PRISMA protocol. Initially, a total of 1739 studies underwent scrutiny, with the elimination of 741 duplicate records. A further 972 articles were excluded on account of their incongruence with the predefined subjects. The ultimate compilation embraced 26 studies, with a predominant focus on the effects of nanohydroxyapatite coating in isolation. However, a subset of nine papers delved into the nuanced realm of its modifiers, encompassing materials such as chitosan, collagen, silver particles, or gelatine. Across many of the selected studies, the application of nanohydroxyapatite coating exhibited a proclivity to enhance the osseointegration process. The modifications thereof showcased a positive influence on cell lines, manifesting in increased cellular spread or the attenuation of bacterial activity. In clinical applications, this augmentation potentially translates into heightened implant stability, thereby amplifying the overall procedural success rate. This, in turn, renders nanohydroxyapatite-coated implants a viable and potentially advantageous option in clinical scenarios where non-modified implants may not suffice.

A proposed protocol for correlation between bone density in hemimandibular hyperplasia radiography and histopathological findings - A retrospective study.

The role of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) in surgical planning can be assessed based on the correlation among bone density (BD/HU), radiographic values, and the histopathological appearance of hyperplastic overgrowth in mandibular condyles (hemimandibular hyperplasia/osteochondroma). The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between LDCT indices of bone-density measurements in surgical planning and histopathological specimens. The patients incuded in this study underwent detailed radiological evaluation as preparation for further clinical procedures. Excised condyles were evaluated in terms of bone density index using LDCT, and then histopathologically to investigate the accuracy of surgical procedures and set the basis for future surgical planning. An index value between both condyles' bone densities represented the relative difference between the healthy condyle and the side with hemimandibular hyperplasia (HH). Patients with unilateral condylar hyperplasia (UCH) showed a statistical correlation between condyle heads with increased bone density (BD) and scintigraphic (SCI) values (p < 0.001). On the other hand, correlation between BD and histopathological studies alone was significant (p < 0.001). With the increase in BD measured in HU in UCH condyles, the overall value of fibrous cartilage layer thickness decreased (p < 0.001). Furthermore, histopathological evaluation indicated that increased bone density on the UCH side resulted in increased total thickness (p > 0.001). The proposed index measurements in the mandibular condyles based on LDCT/BD can be used to estimate the degree of required surgical resection. Results from LDCT radiographic studies correlate with histopathological specimens more than scintigraphy.

Review on fluoride varnishes currently recommended in dental prophylaxis.

In dentistry, fluoride compounds play a very important role in the development of teeth hard tissue. They have been modifying the development of the carious process for many years in accordance with the principles of minimally invasive therapy. Studies have confirmed their effectiveness in the prevention and treatment of carious lesions and erosion of deciduous and permanent teeth, as well as in the dentin hypersensitivity treatment. Typically, each varnish consists of 3 basic components, i.e., a resin usually in the form of mastic, shellac and/or rosin, an alcohol-based organic solvent (usually ethanol) and active agents. In the first-generation varnishes, the active agent is fluorine compounds, most often in the form of 5% NaF, while in second-generation varnishes, the composition is further enriched with calcium and phosphorus compounds in the form of CPP-ACP/CPP-ACPF, ACP, TCP, fTCP, CSPS, TMP, CXP, or CaGP. This influences the bioavailability of fluoride in the oral environment by increasing both its release from the product and its subsequent accumulation in enamel and plaque, promotes more efficient closure of dentinal tubules, and facilitates pH buffering in the oral cavity.

Brief Narrative Review on Commercial Dental Sealants-Comparison with Respect to Their Composition and Potential Modifications.

The scope of this paper is to compare different dental sealants and flow materials indicated for sealing pits and fissures considering their chemical formula. The narrative review aims to address the following questions: What is the essence of different dental sealants' activity, how does their chemical formula affect their mechanisms of caries prevention, and what makes a dental sealant efficient mean of caries prevention? Another vital issue is whether the sealants that contain fluoride, or any other additions, have potentially increased antimicrobial properties. An electronic search of the PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Scopus databases was performed. The following keywords were used: (dental sealants) AND (chemical composition). Additionally, information about composition and indications for clinical use provided by manufacturers were utilized. All of the considered materials are indicated for use both in permanent and primary dentition for sealing fissures, pits, and foramina caeca. The selection of suitable material should be made individually and adjusted to conditions of the sealing procedure and patient's needs. Cariostatic mechanisms increasing sealants' effectiveness such as fluoride release are desired in modern dentistry appreciating preventive approach. The review aims are to find crucial elements of sealants' composition which affect their cariostatic mechanisms.

The Use of Graphene Oxide in Orthodontics-A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Graphene-based materials have great prospects for application in dentistry and medicine due to their unique properties and biocompatibility with tissues. The literature on the use of graphene oxide in orthodontic treatment was reviewed. METHODS: This systematic review followed the PRISMA protocol and was conducted by searching the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane. The following search criteria were used to review the data on the topic under study: (Graphene oxide) AND (orthodontic) ALL FIELDS. For the Scopus database, results were narrowed to titles, authors, and keywords. A basic search structure was adopted for each database. Initially, a total of 74 articles were found in the considered databases. Twelve articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. RESULTS: Nine studies demonstrated the antibacterial properties of graphene oxide, which can reduce the demineralization of enamel during orthodontic treatment. Seven studies showed that it is biocompatible with oral tissues. Three studies presented that graphene oxide can reduce friction in the arch-bracket system. Two studies showed that it can improve the mechanical properties of orthodontic adhesives by reducing ARI (Adhesive Remnant Index). Three studies demonstrated that the use of graphene oxide in the appropriate concentration can also increase the SBS (shear bond strength) parameter. One research study showed that it can increase corrosion resistance. One research study suggested that it can be used to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement. CONCLUSION: The studies included in the systematic review showed that graphene oxide has numerous applications in orthodontic treatment due to its properties.

Mercury Content in Impacted Wisdom Teeth from Patients of the Legnica-Glogów Copper Area-An In Vitro Pilot Study.

The aim of this study was to determine the content of mercury in impacted third molars from Legnica-Glogów Copper Area residents to emphasize the effects of environmental pollution on the human body. A group of 72 patients with an average age of 27.3 ± 6.9 years participated in the study. Within this study, the research group (Legnica-Glogów Copper Area residents) comprised 51 individuals, while the control group (residents of Wroclaw) consisted of 21 participants. A higher number of female individuals participated in the research (55). The amount of mercury present in the samples was determined through atomic absorption spectrometry with the use of a SpectraAA atomic absorption spectrometer and a V2 AA240FS flame attachment that utilized an air-acetylene flame. The accumulation of Hg in the teeth of members of the control group residing in Wroclaw was studied, with a focus on identifying the risk factors that contribute to this phenomenon. The final model analyzed the presence of various factors, including thyroid and parathyroid gland diseases, cardiac diseases, and interval-scale Vit. D3 concentration. Among these factors, the presence of cardiac diseases was deemed statistically significant in relation to an increase in Hg concentration in third molars (rate ratio = 2.27, p < 0.0001). The concentration of mercury increased with the age and time of residence in the L-G Copper District.

Anatomical and Surgical Implications of the Usage of Bichat Fat Pad in Oroantral Communication, Maxillary, Palatal, and Related Surgeries-Narrative Review.

The buccal fat pad, also called the Bichat's fat pad (BFP), is an encapsulated fat mass located in the cheek. This type of specialized fat mass can be used both as a pedicular or free graft in various surgeries and approaches. Due to its easy access from the oral cavity approach, it is commonly used for oroantral and palatal fistula closure. The knowledge of its anatomy and surrounding tissues plays a role in its mobilization and suturing onto the desired defect in the palatal or maxillary region. The BFP is mostly associated with the primary approach used for a fistula or bone surgery. Alternatively, the procedure can be performed with a single approach incision, which does not compromise the appearance or the function of the operating or adjacent areas. The most important inclusion criteria for BFP usage and surgical limitations are highlighted. The BFP is used for multiple purposes in reconstructive and oncology surgery and also has its use in esthetic and facial contouring procedures. The amount, volume, and shape of the BFP are mostly associated with the scope of their usage. The aim of the following narrative review is to present the surgical and anatomical implications of fat pads in maxillary and palatal surgeries.

Feline Tooth Resorption: A Description of the Severity of the Disease in Regard to Animal's Age, Sex, Breed and Clinical Presentation.

Feline tooth resorption (odontoclastic resorptive lesion) is a common and important issue in veterinary dentistry. This study aimed to analyse the disease's severity and correlation with clinical information in the population of feline patients in Poland in the area of Lower Silesia. An analysis of the clinical charts of 174 cats with dental problems, which were diagnosed as tooth resorption, was conducted. The gender and breed had no influence on the disease severity, but the disease progressed with age. The lesions were mostly encountered within the third and fourth maxillary premolars (107, 108, 207, 208) and mandibular molars (309, 409). No direct correlation was found between the presence or severity of the disease and the clinical signs of affected cats. The study shows that feline tooth resorption is a common issue in feline dentistry and should be taken into account in all cases of animals with any signs of oral disease, including gingivitis and/or dental plaque with preserved appetite. A careful intraoral radiographic examination is essential to avoid false negative results in ambiguous cases.