Association between obstructive sleep apnea and temporomandibular disorders: A meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a very common condition in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). However, there is little evidence of a connection between them. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to assess the association between OSA and TMD in adult population. METHODS: Case-control, cross-sectional and cohort studies on the association between TMD and OSA were searched in the EMBASE, LILACS, LIVIVO, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Open Grey and Pro Quest databases. TMD should be assessed using Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC/TMD) or Diagnostic Criteria (DC/TMD) and OSA using polysomnography (PSG) and/or a validated questionnaire. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Assessment Checklists; and an association meta-analysis was performed. The effect measure included the odds ratio (OR) in dichotomous variables and a 95% confidence interval (CI). Certainty of evidence was determined by analysing groups using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). RESULTS: Out of the 1024 articles screened, 7 met the inclusion criteria for the qualitative synthesis, and 6 for quantitative analysis. All articles were classified at low risk of bias. A positive association with OSA was found in patients with TMD (OR = 2.61; 95% CI = 2.31, 2.95). A significant association was also found irrespective to the OSA diagnostic methods applied (for studies using PSG + validated questionnaires: OR = 2.74; 95% CI = 2.11, 3.57; for studies using validated questionnaires only: OR = 2.55; 95% CI = 2.22, 2.92). GRADE was moderate. CONCLUSION: Patients with TMD presented a significant association with OSA regardless of the OSA diagnostic method (PSG and/or validated questionnaires). OSA screening should be part of the TMD examination routine. Furthermore, due to the different OSA assessment methods used and the small number of studies included, there is a need to include a larger number of studies using PSG to better elucidate this association.

Effect of joint design and welding type on the flexural strength and weld penetration of Ti-6Al-4V alloy bars.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Framework longevity is a key factor for the success of complete-arch prostheses and commonly depends on the welding methods. However, no consensus has been reached on the joint design and welding type for improving framework resistance. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of different joint designs and welding methods with tungsten inert gas (TIG) or laser to join titanium alloy bars (Ti-6Al-4V). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Seventy titanium alloy bar specimens were prepared (3.18 mm in diameter × 40.0 mm in length) and divided into 7 groups (n=10): the C-control group consisting of intact specimens without joints and the remaining 6 groups consisting of specimens sectioned perpendicular to the long-axis and rejoined using an I-, X30-, or X45-shaped joint design with TIG welding (TI, TX30, and TX45) or laser welding (LI, LX30, and LX45). The specimens were tested with 3-point bending. The fracture surfaces were first evaluated with stereomicroscopy to measure the weld penetration area and then analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The data were statistically analyzed with 2-way ANOVA and the Tukey post hoc test, 1-way ANOVA and the Dunnett test, and the Pearson correlation test (α=.05). RESULTS: Specimens from the X30 and X45 groups showed higher flexural strength (P<.05) and welded area (P<.05) than specimens from the I groups, regardless of the welding type. TIG welded groups showed significantly higher flexural strength than the laser groups (P<.05), regardless of the joint design. TIG welding also resulted in higher welded areas than laser welding for the I-shaped specimens. No significant differences were found for the weld penetration area in the X45 group, either for laser or TIG welding. SEM analysis showed more pores at the fracture surfaces of the laser specimens. Fracture surfaces indicative of regions of increased ductility were detected for the TIG specimens. CONCLUSIONS: TIG welding resulted in higher flexural strength for the joined titanium specimens than laser welding. For both welding methods, X30- and X45-shaped joint designs resulted in higher flexural strength and welding penetration than the I-shaped joint design.

Laser and plasma dental soldering techniques applied to Ti-6Al-4V alloy: ultimate tensile strength and finite element analysis.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The literature provides limited information regarding the performance of Ti-6Al-4V laser and plasma joints welded in prefabricated bars in dental applications. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mechanical strength of different diameters of Ti-6Al-4V alloy welded with laser and plasma techniques. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-five dumbbell-shaped rods were created from Ti-6Al-4V and divided into 9 groups (n=5): a control group with 3-mm and intact bars; groups PL2.5, PL3, PL4, and PL5 (specimens with 2.5-, 3-, 4-, and 5-mm diameters welded with plasma); and groups L2.5, L3, L4, and L5 (specimens with 2.5-, 3-, 4-, and 5-mm diameters welded with laser). The specimens were tested for ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and elongation percentages (EP) were obtained. Fractured specimens were analyzed by stereomicroscopy, and welded area percentages (WAP) were calculated. Images were made with scanning electron microscopy. In the initial analysis, the data were analyzed with a 2-way ANOVA (2×4) and the Tukey Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test. In the second analysis, the UTS and EP data were analyzed with 1-way ANOVA, and the Dunnett test was used to compare the 4 experimental groups with the control group (α=.05). The Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficient tests were applied to correlate the study factors. Finite element models were developed in a workbench environment with boundary conditions simulating those of a tensile test. RESULTS: The 2-way ANOVA showed that the factors welding type and diameter were significant for the UTS and WAP values. However, the interaction between them was not significant. The 1-way ANOVA showed statistically significant differences among the groups for UTS, WAP, and EP values. The Dunnett test showed that all the tested groups had lower UTS and EP values than the control group. The 2.5- and 3-mm diameter groups showed higher values for UTS and WAP than the other test groups. A positive correlation was found between welded area percentage and UTS and a negative correlation between these parameters and the diameters of the specimens. No statistically significant difference was found between the weld techniques. CONCLUSIONS: Under the experimental conditions described, diameters of 2.5 and 3 mm resulted in higher UTS and WAP for both laser and plasma welding and appear to be the best option for joining prefabricated rods in this kind of union.

Photoelastic stress analysis of mandibular fixed prostheses supported by 3 dental implants.

PURPOSE: To observe the photoelastic stress patterns generated around implants in relation to variations in the diameter and total number of implants supporting fixed complete-arch mandibular frameworks. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three different implant configurations were analyzed (n = 3): 5 standard implants with diameters of 3.75 mm (C), 3 standard implants with diameters of 3.75 mm (3S), and 3 wide implants with diameters of 5.0 mm (3W). The samples were subjected to a vertical compressive load (1.33 kgf) applied at the end of the distal cantilever of the framework. The shear stresses were calculated around the implants, and the data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance. RESULTS: The implants nearest to the loading showed higher stress values regardless of the group. The C group showed lower shear stress when compared with the other groups (P = 0.001). No significant difference was observed between the 3W and 3S groups (P = 0.785). CONCLUSION: A reduction in the number of implants, regardless of the implant diameter, showed higher stress concentration around the implants. Five-implant configuration showed lower stress concentration and seems to be more biomechanically predictable.

Effect of the crown, post, and remaining coronal dentin on the biomechanical behavior of endodontically treated maxillary central incisors.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: It is unclear how the amount of remaining coronal dentin and the type of post and core rehabilitation affect the strain, stress distribution, and fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the type of post, type of crown, and the amount of remaining coronal dentin on the biomechanical behavior of endodontically treated teeth. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The investigation was conducted by using 3-dimensional finite element analysis and laboratory tests. Three-dimensional models of a maxillary central incisor were generated: without remaining coronal dentin, with 1.0 mm of remaining coronal dentin, with 2.0 mm of remaining coronal dentin, and restored with a glass-fiber post or a cast post and core in combination with a metal crown or an alumina-reinforced ceramic crown. The results were evaluated by using the von Mises criterion and Maximum Principal Stress. One hundred twenty bovine incisors were selected and divided into 12 treatment groups (n=10). Specimens were loaded at a 135-degree angle to perform strain measurements and were then loaded until fracture. The strain and fracture resistance results were analyzed with 3-way analysis of variance and the Tukey honestly significant difference test (α=.05). RESULTS: The alumina-reinforced ceramic crowns and metal crowns associated with a glass-fiber post showed a homogeneous stress distribution within the root. The cast post and core concentrated higher stresses at the post-dentin interface. Significant differences were found among the mean fracture resistance values for all groups (P<.05). The presence of 2.0 mm of coronal remnants resulted in lower strains and higher fracture resistance for both the metal and ceramic crowns. Roots restored with glass-fiber posts exhibited more favorable fractures. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of 2 mm of remaining coronal dentin improved the mechanical behavior of the endodontically treated maxillary incisors. Teeth restored with glass-fiber posts and composite resin cores showed a homogeneous stress distribution within the root dentin.

Gingival conditioning in an implant-supported prosthesis: a clinical report.

The loss of gingival volume is a major challenge for dental surgeons with implant-supported fixed prosthesis manufactures, particularly from an aesthetics perspective in patients with a high smile line. Gingival tissue remodeling can help in papillae formation to avoid soft tissue surgery by reestablishing the appropriate shape and gingival contour of the tissues. This improves not only the aesthetics, but also the phonetics of the patient. This paper describes a clinical case of gingival conditioning obtained with interim implant-supported fixed partial dentures via incremental addition and adjustment of acrylic resin. The purpose of the gingival conditioning was to obtain improved aesthetics. Gingival conditioning by gradual pressure application is presented as an easy, non-traumatic technique that improves gingival aesthetics.

Mechanical Behavior of One-Piece and Two-Piece Tapered Prosthetic Abutments with 11.5 and 16 Degrees.

The objective of this study is to examine the mechanical behavior of two-piece abutments (Morse taper with 16° internal angulation and Morse taper with 11.5° internal angulation) before and after cyclic fatigue testing, following ISO 14801:2016 guidelines. The specimens were divided into three groups: a modified Morse taper with a taper angle of 16° (GM group), a conventional Morse taper (taper angle of 11.5° deg) with a two-piece (CMt group), and one-piece abutments (CMo group). Each experimental group was formed by ten implants and ten abutments (n = 10) for a total of 30 specimens (n = 30). The abutments were tightened and loosened, and a fatigue test was applied with 15 Hz and 5 × 106 cycles. Subsequently, the abutments were loosened, and a pull-out test was performed on the CMt group. Finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted on stress concentration regions. The statistical analysis of the loosening test was performed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p < 0.05) to compare screw loosening within each group and between the groups with and without mechanical fatigue. Significant differences were found among the three groups in the loosening test when analyzing the values with and without fatigue (p < 0.001) within each group. When the groups were compared with each other, there was also a significant difference between them (p < 0.001), except between groups GM and CMt without fatigue (p = 0.840). In the pull-out test of the CMt group, the sample exhibited frictional locking only after fatigue (mean = 94.2 N). The FEA demonstrated a varied stress distribution in all groups. The stress was found to be more concentrated in the upper third and middle third regions of the implant, as well as in the opposite region of the load application for all three groups. Although the CMo group showed lower rates of loosening, it displayed a poorer stress distribution in comparison to the GM and CMt groups. On the other hand, the CMt group exhibited a satisfactory frictional lock after undergoing the fatigue tests.

The effect of fiber post presence and restorative technique on the biomechanical behavior of endodontically treated maxillary incisors: an in vitro study.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Unresolved controversy exists concerning the best technique for restoring endodontically treated teeth. Prefabricated posts have been recommended with some debate as a method of restoring pulpless teeth before placement of the final restoration. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect on the strain, fracture resistance, and fracture mode of endodontically treated human incisors of 4 types of restorations with or without glass fiber posts after thermal cycling. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ninety human maxillary central incisors were selected and divided into 1 control group and 8 treatment groups (n=10). The teeth were endodontically treated and received 2 large Class III preparations simulating coronal destruction. The teeth were then restored with or without glass fiber posts and by using 4 restorative techniques: direct composite resin, direct composite veneer, feldspathic ceramic veneer, or a feldspathic ceramic crown. After artificial aging by thermal cycling, the incisors were loaded at a 135-degree angle, and the strain was measured by using strain gauges placed on the facial and proximal root surfaces. Specimens were subsequently loaded to the point of fracture. Strain and fracture resistance results were analyzed by a 1-way and 2-way ANOVA, followed by the Tukey HSD and Dunnett tests (α=.05). RESULTS: One-way analyses showed that the control group and the direct composite resin restoration with and without post groups presented significantly higher fracture resistance values (P<.001). Two-way analyses showed no significant differences for the post system. Proximal strain values were higher in the control and composite resin groups and lower in the feldspathic ceramic groups. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of glass fiber posts did not increase the fracture resistance of endodontically treated incisors. Conservative composite resin restorations showed higher fracture resistance values.

Effects of fractionation and ionizing radiation dose on the chemical composition and microhardness of enamel.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the chemical and mechanical properties of enamel submitted to different in vitro radiation protocols. DESIGN: Third molars were divided into seven groups (n = 8): non-irradiated (NI); a single dose of 30 Gy (SD30), 50 Gy (SD50), or 70 Gy (SD70) of radiation; or fractional radiation doses of up to 30 Gy (FD30), 50 Gy (FD50), or 70 Gy (FD70). Hemisections were analysed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and Knoop microhardness (KHN) test. One-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni's post-hoc test compared the test groups with the NI. Two-way ANOVA was performed for the fractionation and radiation dose, followed by Bonferroni's test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: FTIR revealed differences for the amide I band between the NI and FD50 and NI and FD70 groups (p < 0.001). For the organic matrix/mineral ratio, the FD70 group presented a lower ratio compared to NI (p = 0.009). Excluding the NI group, there were differences between the FD30 and FD50 (p = 0.045) and the FD30 and FD70 groups (p < 0.001). For EDS, there were differences for Ca (p = 0.011) and Ca/P (p < 0.001), with the FD70 group presenting lower values compared to NI (p = 0.015; p < 0.001). For KHN, the FD70 group presented lower values than the NI (p = 0.002). Two-way ANOVA showed difference for the dose (p < 0.001), with the 70 Gy group presenting a lower KHN value within the fractionated groups. CONCLUSION: Fractional doses 70 Gy irradiation caused chemical and mechanical changes to enamel. Radiation applied in single or fractional doses produced different effects to enamel.

Changes in mandibular and articular dynamics associated with surgical versus nonsurgical treatment of mandibular condylar fractures: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the mandibular and articular dynamics and the presence of complications associated with surgical or nonsurgical treatments of condylar fractures. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical trials that compared open reduction internal fixation and maxillomandibular fixation in patients with condylar fractures were included. We performed an electronic search of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences) databases starting from February 2017 and updated in January 2019 and found 467 articles. We evaluated methodologic quality by using the criteria from Cochrane's Collaboration Tool. RESULTS: After independent screening of abstracts, we assessed the full texts of 88 articles; 9 studies were included for qualitative synthesis; but only 8 were included for the meta-analysis. Four studies were considered to have high risk of bias, and 5 were considered to have low risk. The risk ratio (RR = 0.20; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.13-0.32) was observed for complications. The quality of evidence, using GRADE software, was considered low for maximum mouth opening and protrusive movement and moderate for lateral excursion movement and complications. CONCLUSIONS: This review suggested that open reduction internal fixation and maxillomandibular fixation are effective. However, surgical treatment presented higher objective parameters. Nonsurgical treatment presented a high index of complications, such as malocclusion, pain and deviation.

Head and neck cancer therapy-related oral manifestation management in the COVID-19 pandemic: a critical review.

With the onset of the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the dental treatment of patients at risk of infection has become quite challenging. In view of this, patients with head and neck cancer may present with oral complications due to anticancer therapy, making dental assistance necessary. Thus, the objective of the study was to review the literature and critically discuss important concerns about the treatment of patients with head and neck cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Because dental professionals are in close contact with the main viral transmission routes, this study presents recommendations for management and protection during clinical dental care. The main characteristics and transmission routes of COVID-19 are also discussed. Dental professionals should control pain and the side effects of antineoplastic treatment and use preventive measures for infection control. During this pandemic, patients with head and neck cancer should not undergo elective procedures, even if they do not have symptoms or a history of COVID-19; therefore, in asymptomatic or painless cases, only preventive actions are recommended. In symptomatic or painful cases, precautions for safe interventional treatments must be implemented by following the hygiene measures recommended by health agencies and using personal protective equipment. During health crises, new protocols emerge for cancer treatment, and professionals must act with greater attention toward biosafety and updated knowledge. It is important to offer adequate individualized treatment based on the recommendations of preventative and interventional treatments so that patients can face this difficult period with optimized quality of life.

Impact of Implant Number on Mandibular Implant-Supported Profile Prostheses: A Systematic Review.

PURPOSE: To assess studies on edentulous patients rehabilitated using mandibular implant-supported profile prostheses and analyze the impact of different numbers of implants used on the implant survival rate, peri-implant bone loss, and prosthesis survival rate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This systematic review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement and was registered on PROSPERO. The PubMed/MEDLINE database was searched for articles published before July 18, 2016. The study attempted to answer the following PICO question: In edentulous patients, do full-arch fixed prostheses supported by three implants have a satisfactory implant survival rate, marginal bone loss, and prosthesis survival rate compared with those supported by different numbers of implants? Evidence levels of each study were evaluated using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (OCEBM); methodologic quality was evaluated using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS) scale and Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Descriptive statistics were performed when applicable. Implant survival curves were constructed using the Kaplan-Meier method, and marginal bone loss was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn's, and Mann-Whitney tests. RESULTS: This analysis included 21 published studies of 4,712 implants and 1,245 mandibular implant-supported profile prostheses in 1,245 patients. The patients were grouped by the number of implants used: group 1 (three implants) had an implant survival rate of 90%; group 2 (four implants) had a rate of 95%; and group 3 (five implants) had the lowest rate, 74%. Groups 1 and 3 had the lowest first-year bone losses (median: 0.73 and 0.70 mm, respectively), and were significantly different from group 2 (median: 1.31 mm; P < .001). CONCLUSION: Despite the limitations in the studies with low levels of evidence and the methodology of MeSH term research, it was concluded that the implant survival rate and first-year bone loss of full-arch fixed prostheses supported by three implants were satisfactory. However, the prosthesis survival rate was inferior to that of other groups, which suggests a longer follow-up of these rehabilitations.

Immediate prosthetic rehabilitation of lower molars with hybrid internal tapered implants: report of two cases / Reabilitação protética imediata de molares inferiores com implantes cônicos internos híbridos: relato de dois casos

ABSTRACT The immediate rehabilitation of the posterior region of the mandible with dental implants, expands the set of possible actions for the dental surgeon, in the face of tooth loss. The purpose of this study is to describe two cases of single rehabilitation of mandibular molars with hybrid internal tapered implants indicated for immediate loading in post-extraction socket, associated with the maintenance of the prosthetic and peri-implant space. Implants with macrogeometry and surface treatment (Hydrophilic) were used to optimize primary stability, as well as the type of internal connection and prosthetic abutments that allows better accommodation and healing of adjacent tissues, and protection of the bone graft. Different methodologies of surgical guides did not influence the final result. The predictability of associating techniques and components can be observed in the 2-year follow-up. The initial planning combined with the new technologies enable to achieve stable and functional final restorations.

RESUMO A reabilitação imediata da região posterior da mandíbula com implantes dentários, amplia o conjunto de ações possíveis ao cirurgião dentista, frente as perdas dentárias. O intuito desse estudo é descrever dois casos de reabilitação unitária de molares inferiores com implantes cônicos internos híbridos indicados para carregamento imediato em alvéolos pós-extração, associado a manutenção do espaço protético e peri-implantar. Foram utilizados implantes com macrogeometria e tratamento de superfície que otimizassem a estabilidade primária (Hidrofílicos), bem como o tipo de conexão interna e abutments protéticos que permitisse melhor acomodação e cicatrização dos tecidos adjacentes, e proteção do enxerto ósseo. Diferentes metodologias de guias cirúrgicos não influenciaram o resultado final. A previsibilidade da associação de técnicas e componentes pode ser observada no follow-up de 2 anos. O planejamento inicial aliado às novas tecnologias permite restaurações finais estáveis e funcionais.

Mechanical properties of light-curing composites polymerized with different laboratory photo-curing units.

This study aimed to analyze the microhardness (KHN) and diametral tensile strength (DTS) of two hybrid resin composites (TPH Spectrum and Filtek Z250). To this end, the composites were polymerized with six laboratory photo-curing units (LPUs) and the results compared with an alternative polymerization method using conventional halogen light source in conjunction with additional polymerization in an autoclave (15 minutes/100 degrees C). LPUs were used following the manufacturers' instructions. Diametral tensile strength and Knoop hardness tests were conducted for all groups (n=5). Data were statistically compared using ANOVA and Tukey's test (alpha = 0.05). Among the LPUs, the one that provided light curing in conjunction with heat and nitrogen pressure resulted in a significant increase in KHN and DTS of resin composites. Between the resin composites, Filtek Z250 showed higher hardness values than TPH Spectrum. It was concluded that the use of alternative polymerization with conventional light polymerization and autoclave was feasible with a wide implication for the general public in terms of reduced dental treatment cost.

Management of bruxism associated with temporomandibular disorder: case report / Manejo do Bruxismo associado a Disfunção Temporomandibular: relato de caso

ABSTRACT Studies have found the association between episodes of bruxism and the presence of signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD). The aim of the present study was to report the diagnosis and palliative therapy of bruxism associated with TMD. Patient, 23 years old, male gender, presented at dental clinic, complaining of pain in the temporomandibular joint on the left side and alteration of the form of the anterior teeth. During the anamnesis it was documented that this symptom was recurrent and reported the habit of grinding teeth. The clinical examination observed discrepancy between the centric relation and the maximum habitual intercuspation, unsatisfactory protrusive guide, presence of wear facets, clicking and mandibular deviation during mouth opening. The Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC / TMD) questionnaire was applied to diagnose TMD. By means of specific algorithms this disorder was classified as myofascial pain, disc displacement with reduction and osteoarthritis, all affecting the left side. Thus, it was proposed the assembly of the models in semi-adjustable articulator for occlusal mapping and waxing diagnosis, then the occlusal adjustment by selective wear and material addition was executed. After this procedure, the occlusal splint was installed as a palliative therapy for bruxism. This case report suggests that the dental approach by means of occlusal adjustment and occlusal splint, in a patient diagnosed with bruxism and temporomandibular disorder, reduces the signs and symptoms that affect the components of the Stomatognathic System.

RESUMO Estudos tem encontrado a associação entre os episódios de bruxismo e a presença dos sinais e sintomas de disfunção temporomandibular (DTM). O objetivo do presente trabalho foi relatar o diagnóstico e terapia paliativa do bruxismo associado à DTM. Paciente, 23 anos, gênero masculino, apresentou-se à clínica odontológica, queixando-se de dor na articulação temporomandibular do lado esquerdo e alteração da forma dos dentes anteriores. Durante a anamnese foi documentado que esse sintoma era recorrente e relatado o hábito de ranger os elementos dentais. No exame clínico observou-se discrepância entre relação cêntrica e máxima intercuspidação habitual, guia protrusiva insatisfatória, presença de facetas de desgaste, estalido e desvio mandibular durante o movimento de abertura bucal. O questionário Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) foi aplicado para diagnosticar a DTM. Por meio de algoritmos específicos essa desordem foi classificada como dor miofascial, deslocamento de disco com redução e osteoartrite, todos acometendo o lado esquerdo. Desta forma, foi proposto a montagem dos modelos em articulador semi-ajustável para mapeamento oclusal e enceramento diagnóstico. Em seguida o ajuste oclusal por desgaste seletivo e acréscimo de material foi executado. Finalizado esse procedimento, a placa estabilizadora da oclusão foi instalada como terapia paliativa para o bruxismo. Esse relato de caso sugere que a abordagem odontológica por meio do ajuste oclusal e placa oclusal, em paciente diagnosticado com bruxismo e disfunção temporomandibular, reduz os sinais e sintomas que afetam os componentes do Aparelho Estomatognático.

Correlation between the Mechanical Properties and Structural Characteristics of Different Fiber Posts Systems.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the flexural strength and flexural modulus of different fiber-reinforcement composite (FRC) posts and determine the correlation between mechanical properties and structural characteristics. Eleven brands of fiber posts were analyzed (n=10): Exacto Cônico (Angelus), DT Light SL (VDW), RelyX Fiber Post (3M-Espe), Glassix Radiopaque (Nordim), Para Post Fiber White (Coltène), FRC Postec Plus (Ivoclar), Aestheti-Plus Post (Bisco), Superpost Cônico Estriado (Superdont), Superpost Ultrafine (Superdont), Reforpost (Angelus), and White Post DC (FGM). The posts were loaded in three-point bending test to calculate the flexural strength and flexural modulus using a mechanical testing machine (EMIC 2000 DL) at 0.5 mm/min. Data were submitted to one-way ANOVA and Scott-Knot test (p<0.05). The cross-sections of the posts were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Correlation between the mechanical properties and each of the structural variables was calculated by Pearson's correlation coefficients (p<0.05). The flexural strength values ranged from 493 to 835 MPa and were directly correlated with the fiber/matrix ratio (p=0.011). The flexural modulus ranged from 4500 to 8824 MPa and was inversely correlated with the number of fibers per mm2 of post (p<0.001). It was concluded that the structural characteristics significantly affected the properties of the FRC posts. The structural characteristic and mechanical properties of fiber glass posts are manufacture-dependent. A linear correlation between flexural strength and fiber/matrix ratio, as well as the flexural modulus and the amount of fiber was found.

Congenital oral synechia and ankyloblepharon filiforme adnatum: Case report and literature review.

INTRODUCTION: Congenital intraoral synechias are adhesions of intraoral structures involving soft tissue. These conditions and another anomaly called ankyloblepharon filiforme adnatum, which is partial fusion of the eyelid margins by bands of tissue, are rarely reported in the literature. The association of both anomalies of the craniomaxillofacial region is an even more unusual finding. PURPOSE: This article adds more information to the literature by reporting a case of a neonate with a rare association of bilateral synechia between the jaws, fusion of buccal mucosa to the ridges and between the tongue and palate, and ankyloblepharon filiforme adnatum in both eyes, without any other facial or systemic malformation. METHODS: A literature review of similar cases published in PUBMED/MEDLINE was conducted followed by a discussion and comparison to the new case. CONCLUSION: The rare association of these congenital defects, without the presence of syndromic symptoms, could be diagnosed and treated easily with good prognostic evolution.

Influence of Connection Types and Implant Number on the Biomechanical Behavior of Mandibular Full-Arch Rehabilitation.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of different implant numbers and connection types on the biomechanical behavior of mandibular full-arch implant-supported rehabilitation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Computed tomography-based finite element models comprising a totally edentulous mandible and 3.8 × 13-mmdiameter implants, abutments, abutment screws, bar retaining screw, and bar were constructed. Different implant numbers (three, four, and five implants) and loading conditions (symmetrical/balanced, unilateral, and posterior with diverse loading magnitudes) were simulated for both external hex and Morse-taper connections. The peak equivalent strain (EQV strain) in the bone and the peak of von Mises stress (EQV stress) in the abutment screw and bar retaining screw were evaluated. RESULTS: Lower strain values were observed for a symmetrical loading distribution. Considering the same loading conditions, significantly higher bone strain levels were observed for external hex, compared with the Morse-taper connection. The number of implants had no significant influence on strain levels in bone, irrespective of the connection types. Compared with the external hex connection, the Morse-taper connection type presented significantly lower EQV stress values in abutment screws, but significantly higher stress in the bar retaining screw. Increasing the number of implants significantly reduced the EQV stress in the abutment screw and bar retaining screw. CONCLUSION: The Morse-taper connection type significantly decreased the strain levels in peri-implant bone, while increasing the stress in bar retaining screws. A smaller number of implants in an inferior full-arch rehabilitation slightly increased the stress in the abutment and bar retaining screws. Balanced adjustments of the loading improve the biomechanics of a mandibular full-arch rehabilitation.

Degree of Conversion and Mechanical Properties of Resin Cements Cured Through Different All-Ceramic Systems.

The aim of this study was to verify the degree of conversion (DC), Vickers microhardness (VH) and elastic modulus (E) of resin cements cured through different ceramic systems. One 1.5-mm-thick disc of each ceramic system (feldspathic, lithium dissilicate and zircônia veneered with feldspathic) was used. Three dual-cured (Allcem, Variolink II and RelyX U200) and one chemically-cured (Multilink) resin cements were activated through ceramic discs. For dual-cured resin cements was used a conventional halogen light-curing unit (Optilux 501 at 650 mW/cm2 for 120 s). Samples cured without the ceramic disc were used as control. The samples were stored at 37 °C for 24 h. ATR/FTIR spectrometry was used to evaluate the extent of polymerization in the samples (n=5). Micromechanical properties - VH and E - of the resin cements (n=5) were measured with a dynamic indentation test. Data were statistically analyzed with two-way ANOVA, Tukey's test and Pearson's correlation (α=0.05). DC was affected only by the type of resin cement (p=0.001). For VH, significant interaction was detected between resin cement and ceramic (p=0.045). The dual-cured resin cements showed no significant differences in mean values for E and significantly higher values than the chemically-cured resin cement. The degree of conversion and the mechanical properties of the evaluated resin cements depend on their activation mode and the type of ceramics used in 1.5 mm thickness. The dual-cured resin cements performed better than the chemically-cured resin cement in all studied properties.