Deciduous Teeth Hypomineralisation and Perinatal Risk Factors.

Hypomineralisation defects with demarcated opacities are also observed in the deciduous dentition and have been found to be a predictive factor for hypomineralisation defects in the permanent dentition. Deciduous molar hypomineralisation (DMH) represents a qualitative enamel defect primarily afflicting deciduous second molars, albeit its presence is not limited solely to deciduous second molars, as it can manifest in deciduous canines and first molars. Thus, the presence of demarcated hypomineralisation defects in deciduous teeth could be called as deciduous teeth hypomineralisation. Clinically, these defects are characterized by demarcated opacities, posteruptive enamel breakdown, atypical caries lesions, and atypical restorations. The accurate diagnosis of DMH continues to present a clinical challenge, and the reported prevalence of this defect exhibits notable variability across different countries. Its precise etiology remains elusive; however, there is a prevailing suspicion that events occurring during the prenatal, perinatal, or early postnatal periods, particularly those unfolding during the perinatal phase, are intricately linked to DMH development. Factors such as delivery complications, neonatal complications, prematurity, and low birth weight have been associated with DMH. Notably, there exists a possibility that, the more health-related events occur during this critical period, the greater the likelihood of a child presenting with this enamel defect. Nevertheless, the establishment of these associations warrants further investigation through prospective studies. Acquiring knowledge regarding the factors associated with this defect holds paramount importance for effective diagnosis, guidance for families with affected children, and the formulation of strategies to mitigate the incidence of these contributory factors.

Development of undergraduate students' diagnostic accuracy for the classification of molar incisor hypomineralization.

INTRODUCTION: One of the major difficulties with respect to molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is its classification and differentiation from other enamel development defects (EDDs). The aim of this study was to evaluate diagnostic accuracy in dental students to classify MIH as well as its differentiation from other EDDs by combining conventional theoretical classes and e-learning-assisted pre-clinical practices. METHODS: In this one-group pre-test and post-test study, 59 second-year students assessed 115 validated photographs using the MIH Index on the Moodle learning platform. This index assesses the clinical features and extent of MIH, differentiating it from other EDDs. Students received automatic feedback after the pre-test. Two weeks later, students re-evaluated the same photographs. Both pairwise accuracy and overall diagnostic accuracy were estimated and compared for pre- and post-testing, with the area under the curve AUC, along with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). RESULTS: The lowest diagnostic accuracy was for the ability to discriminate between white or cream-coloured demarcated opacities and hypomineralization-type defect that is not MIH. The overall pre-test accuracy was AUC = 0.83 and increased significantly post-test to AUC = 0.99 (p < .001). The overall accuracy to discriminate the extent of the lesion also increased significantly post-test (p < .001). CONCLUSION: Diagnostic skills to classify MIH can be developed by combining conventional theoretical classes and e-learning-assisted pre-clinical practices.

Characterization of enamel developmental defects in patients with orofacial clefts and their relationship to surgical procedures.

AIMS: This study aimed to characterize the prevalence of development defects of enamel (DDE) in patients with cleft based on the cleft phenotype and explore the relationship between surgical procedures and different types of DDE. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 290 standardized orthodontic documentation and medical records from a reference hospital were evaluated, which treated patients with: cleft lip (CL), cleft lip with alveolar bone involvement (CLa), cleft lip and palate (CLP), cleft palate (CP), cleft median (CM), and considering laterality as unilateral or bilateral. DDE was assessed using the Ghanim Index (2015). Information on surgical intervention periods was obtained from medical records. Statistical analyses were performed using prevalence ratio (PR) for DDE comparisons between cleft phenotypes and surgical procedures. RESULTS: The prevalence of DDE was 77.2%. Demarcated hypomineralization was associated with CP and CLP, while hypoplasia was associated with CLa, especially when bilateral. Hypoplasia was also associated with the labial adhesion surgery. CONCLUSION: Demarcated hypomineralization was the most common DDE in this population, and the cleft phenotype influenced the type of DDE manifested. The lip adhesion surgery increased the chances of hypoplasia manifestation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The type of DDE in patients with cleft depends on the cleft phenotype. Understanding this susceptibility enables the multidisciplinary team to monitor dental development, thus allowing early diagnosis and timely referral to the pediatric dentist and better prognoses.

Survival of stainless-steel crowns and composite resin restorations in molars affected by molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH).

BACKGROUND: Currently, there is no consensus on the superiority of any material for the restorative treatment of molars affected by molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH). AIM: To evaluate the survival of restorations with stainless-steel crown (SSC) or composite resin (CR) in first permanent molars affected by MIH for 24 months. DESIGN: In this retrospective cohort study, 61 CR and 54 SSC restorations placed on molars affected by MIH of patients, aged between 7 and 10, that were treated and overseen at a university dental clinic in the period of 2017-2020 were evaluated. The primary outcome was the failure-free survival time. Parametric survival models were used for data censored by interval, and the comparison between SSC and CR was performed using the hazard ratio function with a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS: The survival of SSC and CR restorations after 24 months was 94.4% and 49.2%, respectively. This difference was influenced by the presence of previous restoration (aHR = 3.4; 95% CI: 1.2-9.4) and cusp involvement (aHR = 4.0; 95% CI: 1.5-11.2). CONCLUSION: In molars with MIH and the need for restorative treatment, SSC had a significantly higher survival rate than CR over 24 months.

In vivo effect of fluoride combined with amoxicillin on enamel development in rats.

Some evidence in vitro suggested that amoxicillin and fluoride could disturb the enamel mineralization. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of amoxicillin and of the combination of amoxicillin and fluoride on enamel mineralization in rats. METHODOLOGY: In total, 40 rats were randomly assigned to four groups: control group (CG); amoxicillin group (AG - amoxicillin (500 mg/kg/day), fluoride group (FG - fluoridated water (100 ppm -221 mg F/L), and amoxicillin + fluoride group (AFG). After 60 days, the samples were collected from plasma and tibiae and analyzed for fluoride (F) concentration. The incisors were also collected to determine the severity of fluorosis using the Dental Fluorosis by Image Analysis (DFIA) software, concentration of F, measurements of enamel thickness, and hardness. The data were analyzed by ANOVA, Tukey's post-hoc test, or Games-Howell post-hoc test (α=0.05). RESULTS: Enamel thickness of the incisors did not differ statistically among the groups (p=0.228). Groups exposed to fluoride (AFG and FG) have higher F concentrations in plasma, bone and teeth than those not exposed to fluoride (CG and AG). The groups showed a similar behavior in the DFIA and hardness test, with the FG and AFG groups showing more severe fluorosis defects and significant lower hardness when compared with the AG and CG groups, with no difference from each other. CONCLUSION: The rats exposed to fluoride or fluoride + amoxicillin developed dental fluorosis, while exposure to amoxicillin alone did not lead to enamel defects.

Contribution of dentistry in the diagnosis of systemic disorders related to erosive tooth wear / Contribución de la odontología en diagnóstico de trastornos sistémicos relacionados con el desgaste dental erosive / Contribuição da odontologia no diagnóstico de distúrbios sistêmicos relacionados ao desgaste dentário erosivo

Abstract Erosive tooth wear (ETW) is the irreversible loss of dental hard tissue resulting from the chemical-mechanical process. The aim of the present case report was to present two clinical cases of patients affected by ETW arising from different etiological factors. The patients, of the male gender, 9 and 10 years of age presented to the pediatric dental clinic, for routine evaluation. On clinical exam, both patients had no caries lesions, but some lesions suggestive of ETW, which had aspects such as a translucent halo around the occlusal surface of teeth, in addition to "cupping" lesions - mainly in the cusp region, and loss of tooth enamel (by volume). The lesions were restricted to enamel, and the patients showed no dental hypersensitivity. From the dental clinical exam and anamnesis, the two patients were found to have similar tooth structure loss, with diagnosis of ETW. However, in one patient the etiology was extrinsic due to diet, and in the other, it was intrinsic due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The latter patient was referred to a specialist for evaluation of the systemic condition, and GERD was diagnosed. It was concluded that dentists play an important role, as coadjuvant in the diagnosis of health problems related to ETW. Therefore, meticulous clinical exams must be performed to establish the correct diagnosis, because swift intervention in the clinical cases presented had a positive impact on halting the erosive process.

Resumen El desgaste dental erosivo corresponde a una pérdida irreversible de tejido duro dental resultante de un proceso químico-mecánico. Este artículo tuvo como objetivo presentar dos casos clínicos de pacientes afectados por desgaste erosivo con diferentes factores etiológicos. Pacientes varones, de 9 y 10 años, acudieron a la clínica dental de odontopediatría para evaluación de rutina. A la exploración clínica, ambos pacientes no presentaban lesiones cariosas y algunas lesiones sugestivas de erosion que presentaban aspectos como un halo translúcido alrededor de la superficie oclusal del diente, además de puntos de punción principalmente en la región cuspídea (lesiones en ventosa) y pérdida del volumen del esmalte dental. Las lesiones se restringieron al esmalte y los pacientes no presentaron hipersensibilidad dentaria. Del examen clínico odontológico y de la anamnesis se aprecia que los dos pacientes presentaban similar pérdida estructural, con diagnóstico de desgaste erosivo, pero un paciente tenía una etiología extrínseca, por alimentación y otro, intrínseco, por trastorno gastroesofágico (TGRE). El paciente fue derivado al especialista para evaluación de la condición sistémica y se diagnosticó la TGRE. Se concluye que el odontólogo tiene un papel importante, como coadyuvante en el diagnóstico de los trastornos de salud relacionados con el desgaste erosivo. Por tanto, se debe realizar un examen clínico minucioso para establecer el diagnóstico correcto, ya que la rápida intervención en los casos clínicos presentados, incidió positivamente en la parálisis del proceso de erosión.

Resumo O desgaste dentário erosivo corresponde a uma perda irreversível do tecido duro dentário resultante de um processo químico-mecânico. O presente artigo teve por objetivo apresentar dois casos clínicos de pacientes afetados pelo desgaste erosivo com fatores etiológicos distintos. Os pacientes do gênero masculino, com 09 e 10 anos, compareceram à clínica odontológica de odontopediatria para avaliação de rotina. Ao exame clínico, ambos os pacientes apresentavam ausência de lesão de cárie e algumas lesões sugestivas de erosão que apresentavam aspectos como halo translúcido ao redor da superfície oclusal do dente, além de pontos socavados principalmente na região de cúspide (lesões de "cupping") e perda do volume do esmalte dentário. As lesões estavam restritas ao esmalte e os pacientes não apresentavam hipersensibilidade dentária. A partir do exame clínico odontológico e anamese pode-se constatar que os dois pacientes apresentavam perdas estruturais semelhantes, com diagnóstico de desgaste erosivo, porém um paciente apresentava etiologia extrínseca, pela alimentação e outro, intrínseca, por distúrbio gastroesofágico (DGRE). O paciente foi encaminhado ao especialista para avaliação do quadro sistêmico, sendo diagnosticado o DGRE. Conclui-se que o cirurgião-dentista tem um papel importante, como coadjuvante no diagnóstico de distúrbios de saúde relacionados ao desgaste erosivo. Portanto, um exame clínico de maneira minuciosa deve ser realizado para estabelecer o diagnóstico correto, visto que, a rápida intervenção nos casos clínicos apresentados, impactaram de forma positiva na paralisação do processo erosivo.

Clinical changes in the severity of dental fluorosis: a longitudinal evaluation.

BACKGROUND: Dental fluorosis (DF) has been one of the most prevalent pediatric dental conditions associated with aesthetic concern and treatment needs. This study aimed to identify the longitudinal clinical change in the severity of DF in 8-12-year-old children and its association with gender, age, severity, and tooth type. METHODS: This observational study assessed the dental aspects of the 92 Colombian children in 2015 (mean age at beginning 9.71 years ± 1.23) and 2018 (mean age 13.69 years ± 1.41), from an area with high DF prevalence. DF was recorded in all permanent teeth by two calibrated examiners using the Thylstrup and Fejerskov Index (TFI). DF severity change (maximum-TFI-score) was analyzed with descriptive analysis at the tooth level. Associated factors were evaluated with the generalized linear model, binomial family, and logarithmic link function. RESULTS: TFI scores ranged between 1 (very mild) to 6 (severe), being score 2 (41.7%) the most prevalent. After three years, 29.6% of the teeth presented score reduction, 24.1%, increased and 46.3% did not change; the significant association was related to increasing of the basal TFI = 1 score (44.2%) (RR = 9.7; 95% CI 1.7-56.5; p = 0.01) and with canines, premolars and second-permanent-molars teeth group (RR = 3.3; 95% CI 1.9-5.6; p = 0.005). CONCLUSION: The present study based on clinical features about DF confirms the dynamic post-eruptive nature of this condition. After three years of follow-up, a considerable proportion of the teeth changed to a higher score. Furthermore, the canines, premolars, and second-permanent-molars showed a higher incidence of an increase in severity of TFI score.

Inheritance pattern of molar-incisor hypomineralization.

The aim of this study was to investigate the segregation patterns of molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) in families, given the evidence that its etiology is influenced by genetics. Clinically, MIH may be detected in parents and/or siblings of MIH-affected children. Our study included children with at least one first permanent molar affected by MIH (proband) and their first-degree relatives (parents and siblings). The participants were examined clinically to detect MIH, according to the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry criteria (2003). A total of 101 nuclear families (391 individuals) were studied. Proband diagnosis was followed by MIH classification of the subject, his parents and siblings, as affected, unaffected, or unknown. Segregation analysis was performed using the multivariate logistic regression model of the Statistical Analysis for Genetic Epidemiology package, and segregation models (general transmission, environmental, major gene, dominant, codominant and recessive models). The Akaike information criterion (AIC) was used to evaluate the most parsimonious model. In all, 130 affected individuals, 165 unaffected individuals, and 96 unknown individuals were studied. Severe MIH was found in 50.7% of the cases. A segregation analysis performed for MIH revealed the following different models: environmental and dominance (p = 0.05), major gene (p = 0.04), codominant (p = 0.15) and recessive models (p = 0.03). According to the AIC values, the codominant model was the most parsimonious (AIC = 308.36). Our results suggest that the codominant model could be the most likely for inheriting MIH. This result strengthens the evidence that genetic factors, such as multifactorial complex defect, influence MIH.

Structural integrity of MIH-affected teeth after treatment with fluoride varnish or resin infiltration: An 18-Month randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of fluoride varnish (FV) therapies or resin infiltration (RI) to maintain the structural integrity of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) -affected teeth. METHODS: Fifty-one children aged 6-12 years with at least one incisor and one first permanent molar with yellow/brown MIH opacities were included. Patients were randomly allocated into three groups: FV - Fluoride Varnish (Duraphat); FV+etch - Fluoride Varnish (Duraphat) after enamel etching with 37% phosphoric acid; or RI - Resin Infiltration system (Icon). Opacities were monitored for 18 months. The primary outcome was the loss of integrity due to post-eruptive enamel breakdown (PEB). Covariables included sex, age, DMFT index, opacity colour, plaque index, number of MIH-affected teeth, and number of MIH-affected surfaces. Fisher's Exact was used to test the association of treatments with PEB, the Kaplan-Meyer method analysed the survival rates and Cox-regression determined which covariables would predict failure (α=0.05). RESULTS: From a total of 235 teeth, the PEB rate for RI (6.1%) was significantly lower (p<0.05) than FV (17.9%; OR 3.0, 95%CI 1.07, 8.48) and FV+etch (17.3%; OR 3.1, 95%CI 1.13, 8.73). DMFT index >3, brown opacities, cusp involvement, and age between 6-8 years predicted PEB (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Resin infiltration positively influenced the structural integrity maintenance of MIH-affected teeth by decreasing the risk of enamel breakdown over18 months follow-up. Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-8wwk3n). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Resin infiltration proved to be a more efficacious intervention to maintain the structural integrity of MIH-affected teeth than fluoride varnish therapies.

In vivo effect of fluoride combined with amoxicillin on enamel development in rats

Abstract Some evidence in vitro suggested that amoxicillin and fluoride could disturb the enamel mineralization. Objective: To assess the effect of amoxicillin and of the combination of amoxicillin and fluoride on enamel mineralization in rats. Methodology: In total, 40 rats were randomly assigned to four groups: control group (CG); amoxicillin group (AG - amoxicillin (500 mg/kg/day), fluoride group (FG - fluoridated water (100 ppm -221 mg F/L), and amoxicillin + fluoride group (AFG). After 60 days, the samples were collected from plasma and tibiae and analyzed for fluoride (F) concentration. The incisors were also collected to determine the severity of fluorosis using the Dental Fluorosis by Image Analysis (DFIA) software, concentration of F, measurements of enamel thickness, and hardness. The data were analyzed by ANOVA, Tukey's post-hoc test, or Games-Howell post-hoc test (α=0.05). Results: Enamel thickness of the incisors did not differ statistically among the groups (p=0.228). Groups exposed to fluoride (AFG and FG) have higher F concentrations in plasma, bone and teeth than those not exposed to fluoride (CG and AG). The groups showed a similar behavior in the DFIA and hardness test, with the FG and AFG groups showing more severe fluorosis defects and significant lower hardness when compared with the AG and CG groups, with no difference from each other. Conclusion: The rats exposed to fluoride or fluoride + amoxicillin developed dental fluorosis, while exposure to amoxicillin alone did not lead to enamel defects.

Aesthetical perception of dental fluorosis in a Colombian low income community / Percepção estética da fluorose dentária em uma comunidade colombiana de baixa renda / Percepción estética de la fluorosis dental en una comunidad colombiana de bajos ingresos

Abstract Introduction and objective: The Dental Fluorosis (DF) is a development defect of enamel resulting from overexposure to fluoride and can aesthetically compromise the patient. This study aims to investigate the relationship between aesthetic perception and dental fluorosis (DF) in a low-income community with high DF prevalence. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 171 Colombian schoolchildren aged 8 to 12 years living in low socioeconomic community (El Cedro, district of Ayapel, Córdoba, Colombia). After receiving authorization, the students were examined for DMFT and dmft indexes (WHO criteria), and for DF (TF index). The aesthetic perceptions were verified by the Child Perceptions Questionnaire About Tooth Appearance (CQATA). Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics, the chi-square test, the Student´s t-test, the one-way ANOVA test, and linear regression at a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Results: The prevalence of DF in this sample was 84.8% (n=145). Only the presence of caries (DMFT/ deft≠ 0) had a significant impact on aesthetic perceptions. A significantly lower rate was found in girls for the report of pleasant color domain. The number of teeth affected by DF had a significant positive correlation with mean overall perception of dental health. Conclusion: The presence of mild DF in children with low socioeconomic status, from a population with a high prevalence of the condition, did not seem to have an impact on the report of pleasant color of teeth domain.

Resumo Introdução e Objetivo: A fluorose dentária (FD) é um defeito de desenvolvimento do esmalte decorrente da sobre-exposição ao flúor e pode comprometer esteticamente o paciente. O presente estudo se propõe a investigar a relação entre percepção estética e fluorose dentária em uma comunidade de baixa renda com alta prevalência de FD. Materiais e métodos: Foi realizado um estudo transversal com 171 escolares colombianos de 8 a 12 anos de idade, moradores de uma comunidade de baixa renda (El Cedro, distrito de Ayapel, Córdoba, Colômbia). Após receber autorização, os estudantes foram examinados para os índices CPOD e ceod (OMS) e para o FD (TF index). As percepções estéticas foram verificadas pelo "Child Perception Questionaire about Teeth Appearence" (CQATA). A análise dos dados foi realizada por meio de estatística descritiva, teste do qui-quadrado, teste t de Student, teste ANOVA one-way e regressão linear em nível de significância de p ≤ 0,05. Resultados: A prevalência de FD nesta amostra foi de 84,8% (n = 145). Apenas a presença de cáries (CPOD/cpod≠0) teve um impacto significativo nas percepções estéticas. Uma taxa significativamente menor foi encontrada em meninas para o relato de domínio de cor agradável. O número de dentes afetados pela FD teve correlação positiva significativa com a percepção geral da saúde bucal. Conclusão: A presença de FD leve em crianças com baixo nível socioeconômico, de uma população com alta prevalência da doença, não parece ter impacto na satisfação com a coloração dos dentes.

Resumen Introducción y objetivo: La fluorosis dental (FD) es un defecto en el desarrollo del esmalte como resultado de la sobreexposición al fluoruro y puede comprometer estéticamente al paciente. Este estudio tiene como objetivo investigar la relación entre la percepción estética y la fluorosis dental en una comunidad de bajos ingresos económicos y con alta prevalencia de FD. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal con 171 escolares de 8 a 12 años que viven en una comunidad socioeconómica baja (El Cedro, distrito de Ayapel, Córdoba, Colombia). Los estudiantes fueron examinados para caries dentaria (índices DMFT y dmft (criterios de la OMS) y para el fluorosis dentaria (índice TF). La percepción estética se verifico con el cuestionario sobre percepciones de los niños sobre la apariencia de los dientes (CQATA). El análisis de los datos se realizó mediante estadísticas descriptivas y las pruebas de chi cuadrado, t de Student, ANOVA de una vía y la regresión lineal (p ≤ 0.05). Resultados: La prevalencia de FD fue de 84.8% (n = 145). Solo la presencia de caries (DMFT/deft ≠ 0) tuvo un impacto significativo en las percepciones estéticas. Se encontró una tasa significativamente más baja en las niñas para el informe acerca de color agradable. La cantidad de dientes afectados por FD tuvo una correlación positiva significativa con la percepción general de la salud dental. Conclusión: La presencia de FD leve en niños con bajo nivel socioeconómico, en una población con una alta prevalencia de este defecto de esmalte, no pareció tener tuvo un impacto en la aceptción aceptar la apariencia del color de los dientes.

Circulating lymphocytes and monocytes transcriptomic analysis of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia and periodontitis.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), dyslipidemia and periodontitis are frequently associated pathologies; however, there are no studies showing the peripheral blood transcript profile of these combined diseases. Here we identified the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of circulating lymphocytes and monocytes to reveal potential biomarkers that may be used as molecular targets for future diagnosis of each combination of these pathologies (compared to healthy patients) and give insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of these diseases. Study participants (n = 150) were divided into groups: (H) systemically and periodontal healthy (control group); (P) with periodontitis, but systemically healthy; (DL-P) with dyslipidemia and periodontitis; (T2DMwell-DL-P) well-controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus with dyslipidemia and periodontitis; and (T2DMpoorly-DL-P) poorly-controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus with dyslipidemia and periodontitis. We preprocessed the microarray data using the Robust Multichip Average (RMA) strategy, followed by the RankProd method to identify candidates for DEGs. Furthermore, we performed functional enrichment analysis using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis. DEGs were submitted to pairwise comparisons, and selected DEGs were validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Validated DEGs verified from T2DMpoorly-DL-P versus H were: TGFB1I1, VNN1, HLADRB4 and CXCL8; T2DMwell-DL-P versus H: FN1, BPTF and PDE3B; DL-P versus H: DAB2, CD47 and HLADRB4; P versus H: IGHDL-P, ITGB2 and HLADRB4. In conclusion, we identified that circulating lymphocytes and monocytes of individuals simultaneously affected by T2DM, dyslipidemia and periodontitis, showed an altered molecular profile mainly associated to inflammatory response, immune cell trafficking, and infectious disease pathways. Altogether, these results shed light on novel potential targets for future diagnosis, monitoring or development of targeted therapies for patients sharing these conditions.

Esthetic rehabilitation of anterior teeth with molar-incisor hypomineralization and dental fluorosis: a case report.

This case report describes the treatment of a patient who had molar-incisor hypomineralization associated with dental fluorosis, a diagnosis established through a comprehensive review of the clinical record, an intraoral clinical examination, and assessment of photographic records. First, dental hypersensitivity was treated with fluoride varnish, which was applied separately to each dental quadrant. Subsequently, the functional and esthetic reconstruction of the permanent maxillary central incisors was completed in a single session through the placement of direct composite resin veneers. After the treatment, the patient was reexamined monthly for 12 months to evaluate the durability of the restorations. At the 12-month follow-up, no fractures or pigmentations were observed, and only a slight loss of brightness of the restorations was noted. The dental hypersensitivity had been eliminated. When an adhesive restorative technique with composite resin is well executed, it is possible to obtain satisfactory and long-lasting esthetics and relief of painful symptoms.

Esthetic reconstruction of teeth with enamel hypoplasia.

Hypoplasia is an enamel developmental defect characterized by a quantitative disturbance in the formation of mineralized tissue. Among its etiologic factors are local and systemic causes, trauma and dental infections being the most common. This case report presents the functional and esthetic rehabilitation of a 12-year-old boy diagnosed with hypoplasia in the maxillary central incisors. His chief complaints were the unesthetic appearance and sensitivity of the affected teeth. The teeth were restored with composite resin placed with the aid of a direct silicone palatal guide, and the patient was followed up for 12 months. The treatment plan allowed the restoration and improvement of function and esthetics, resulting in patient satisfaction.

Genes Regulating Immune Response and Amelogenesis Interact in Increasing the Susceptibility to Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization.

Ameloblasts are sensitive cells whose metabolism and function may be affected by inflammatory stimuli. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible association between polymorphisms in immune response-related genes and molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH), and their interaction with polymorphisms in amelogenesis-related genes. DNA samples were obtained from 101 nuclear families that had at least 1 MIH-affected child. Eleven single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were investigated in immune response genes using TaqMan® technology allele-specific probes. A transmission disequilibrium test was performed to verify overtransmission of alleles in all MIH families, as well as in families only with mild or severe MIH-affected children. Gene-gene interactions between the immune-related and amelogenesis-related polymorphisms were analyzed by determining whether alleles of those genes were transmitted from heterozygous parents more often in association than individually with MIH-affected children. In severe cases of MIH, significant results were observed for rs10733708 (TGFBR1, OR = 3.5, 95% CI = 1.1-10.6). Statistical evidence for gene-gene interactions between rs6654939 (AMELX) and the SNPs rs2070874 (IL4), rs2275913 (IL17A), rs1800872 (IL10), rs1800587 (IL1A), and rs3771300 (STAT1) was observed. The rs2070874 SNP (IL4) was also significantly overtransmitted from heterozygous parents with the rs7526319 (TUFT1) and the rs2355767 (BMP2) SNPs, suggesting a synergistic effect of the transmission of these alleles with susceptibility to MIH. This family-based study demonstrated an association between variation in TGFBR1 and MIH. Moreover, the polymorphisms in immune response and amelogenesis genes may have an additive effect on the risk of developing MIH.

Caries treatment decisions among undergraduate and postgraduate students supported by visual detection systems.

BACKGROUND: The difficulties of caries diagnosis and the level of examiner's experience may influence the treatment decision, resulting excessive and inefficient intervention. AIM: This randomized experimental study evaluated caries treatment decisions made by undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) students when examination was performed through conventional visual clinical examination (CVCE) and when supported by ICDAS (IC) or Nyvad's (NY) criteria. DESIGN: Four UG and four PG initially analyzed, by CVCE, 300 primary incisors and molars surfaces of 25 children aged 5-12 years, and choose between no treatment, non-operative, and operative treatment. Students were randomized between IC (2UG; 2PG) and NY (2UG; 2PG) and, after one week of receiving training, repeated evaluations and treatment suggestions. Reference standard was established by two researchers' consensus. Sensitivity, specificity, ROC analysis, and kappa were calculated. Treatment decisions were analyzed by means of contingency tables. RESULTS: Only sensitivity showed statistical difference (P < 0.05). Operative treatment had high percentage for initial lesions at first evaluation for both criteria; second evaluation showed higher percentage of non-operative treatments for the same lesions. CONCLUSIONS: IC and NY present satisfactory performance in primary teeth by UG and PG, and their use may assistance UG to adopt a less interventionist approach for initial enamel lesions.

Survival of sealants in molars affected by molar-incisor hypomineralization: 18-month follow-up.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical survival of sealants applied in first permanent molars (FPMs) affected by molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH), at 18 months of follow-up. Forty-one first permanent molars were selected from 21 children, 6-8 years of age. MIH was classified by one calibrated examiner (kappa = 0.80) according to EAPD criteria. The inclusion criteria were fully erupted FPMs with MIH or sound FPMs (without MIH) for which sealant treatment was indicated. The FPMs were assigned to two groups: CG (control group) and HG (MIH group). Both groups were treated with sealant (FluroShield). Clinical follow-up was performed from baseline to 18 months to assess anatomical form, marginal adaptation, retention and presence of caries, according to criteria set by the United States Public Health Service-Modified, and was conducted by a blinded examiner (kappa = 0.80). The actuarial method was used to evaluate the survival of the sealants. The survival rates for the groups were compared using Fisher's exact test (α = 5%). The cumulative survival rates were 81% at 1 month, 68.8% at 6 months, 68.8% at 12 months, and 62.6% at 18 months for CG, and 88% at 1 month, 84% at 6 months, 76% at 12 months, and 72% at 18 months for HG. No significant difference was found between the groups. The sealants in molars affected by MIH presented a survival rate similar to the sealants in the control, suggesting that sealants may be an adequate approach for preventing carious lesions in MIH-affected molars.

Examiner's experience and the outcome interpretation of ICDAS and Nyvad's system - a prospective in vitro study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate, prospectively, the influence of examiner's experience in interpreting and applying the caries detection systems ICDAS (IC) and Nyvad (NY). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twelve second-year undergraduate dental students (UG) and 12 postgraduates (PG) MSc level analysed and codified 77 clinical dental caries photographs at three different moments: initially, without any training; after one week of receiving training through a theoretical class; and after two years. Reproducibility and correlation was evaluated; sensitivity, specificity and area under ROC curve (AUC) were dichotomized according to the presence of cavitation (IC) and in relation to disease activity (NY). RESULTS: IC presented good kappa values for the first two evaluations. Both criteria resulted in good Spearman's correlation after two years (IC = UG: 0.89; PG: 0.93/NY = UG: 0.81; PG: 0.82). Sensitivity, specificity and AUC were statistically higher in the third evaluation by UG for Nyvad. CONCLUSIONS: ICDAS criteria seem to be instinctively understood by students without clinical experience. Nyvad's concepts performed better after two years where the students deepened their theoretical knowledge and experienced clinical practice, collaborating with the identification of activity signs.

Survival of sealants in molars affected by molar-incisor hypomineralization: 18-month follow-up

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical survival of sealants applied in first permanent molars (FPMs) affected by molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH), at 18 months of follow-up. Forty-one first permanent molars were selected from 21 children, 6–8 years of age. MIH was classified by one calibrated examiner (kappa = 0.80) according to EAPD criteria. The inclusion criteria were fully erupted FPMs with MIH or sound FPMs (without MIH) for which sealant treatment was indicated. The FPMs were assigned to two groups: CG (control group) and HG (MIH group). Both groups were treated with sealant (FluroShield). Clinical follow-up was performed from baseline to 18 months to assess anatomical form, marginal adaptation, retention and presence of caries, according to criteria set by the United States Public Health Service-Modified, and was conducted by a blinded examiner (kappa = 0.80). The actuarial method was used to evaluate the survival of the sealants. The survival rates for the groups were compared using Fisher’s exact test (α = 5%). The cumulative survival rates were 81% at 1 month, 68.8% at 6 months, 68.8% at 12 months, and 62.6% at 18 months for CG, and 88% at 1 month, 84% at 6 months, 76% at 12 months, and 72% at 18 months for HG. No significant difference was found between the groups. The sealants in molars affected by MIH presented a survival rate similar to the sealants in the control, suggesting that sealants may be an adequate approach for preventing carious lesions in MIH-affected molars.

Influence of professional experience on detection and treatment decision of occlusal caries lesions in primary teeth.

AIM: To evaluate the influence of examiner's clinical experience on detection and treatment decision of caries lesions in primary molars. DESIGN: Three experienced dentists (Group A) and three undergraduate students (Group B) used the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) criteria and bitewing radiographs (BW) to perform examinations twice in 77 primary molars that presented a sound or carious occlusal surface. For the treatment decision (TD), the examiners attributed scores, analyzing the teeth in conjunction with the radiographs. The presence and the depth of lesion were validated histologically, and reproducibility was evaluated. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the ROC curve values were calculated for ICDAS and BW. The associations between ICDAS, BW, and TD were analyzed by means of contingency tables. RESULTS: Interexaminer agreement for ICDAS, BW, and TD were excellent for Group B and moderate for Group A. The two groups presented similar and satisfactory performance for caries lesion detection using ICDAS and BW. In the treatment decision, Group A was shown to have a less invasive approach than Group B. CONCLUSION: The examiner's experience was not determinant for the clinical and radiographic detection of occlusal lesions in primary teeth but influenced the treatment decision of initial lesions.