Influence of new complete dentures on the touch perception threshold and quality of life of edentulous patients.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the touch perception threshold of the alveolar mucosa and quality of life of edentulous patients before (T0) and 30 days after (T1) the insertion of new complete dentures. BACKGROUND: Touch perception is important so that edentulous patients can detect the position of complete dentures in their mouth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 32 complete denture wearers with good oral and systemic health and no temporomandibular disorders for at least 5 years. At each time point (T0 and T1), two tests were performed (touch perception threshold and quality-of-life scale). The touch perception threshold (Von Frey or Semmes-Weinstein test) was assessed using nylon monofilaments on the regions of the alveolar mucosa of the maxilla and mandible. The Oral Health Impact Profile for edentulous individuals (OHIP-EDENT) was administered to evaluate oral health-related quality of life. RESULTS: In the maxilla and mandible, the touch perception thresholds for all regions of the alveolar mucosa were significantly lower at T1 than at T0. The OHIP-EDENT mean scores showed that the overall quality of life was significantly better at T1 (3.6) than at T0 (4.7), and a significant improvement in quality of life was observed in all domains of the OHIP-EDENT at T1. For touch perception threshold, effect sizes ranged from 0.4 to 0.8; and for quality of life, effect sizes ranged from 0.4 to 1.0. CONCLUSIONS: New complete dentures reduced the touch perception threshold of the alveolar mucosa of both edentulous arches and improved individuals' quality of life.

Clinical reproducibility of different centric relation recording techniques in edentulous individuals: An observational cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: To assess the reproducibility of four different centric relation (CR) recording techniques, and time spent performing each technique in edentulous individuals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four techniques were assessed: extraoral gothic arch (EOGA) tracing, intraoral gothic arch (IOGA) tracing, deglutition (D), and frontal manipulation with tongue elevation (FMTE). Twelve subjects participated in the study; four technique records were performed on each volunteer by the same operator. Each record was repeated three times, in the same period of the day, with a 30 min interval between each technique. The reproducibility of each technique was assessed by the tri-dimensional displacement of the position of the condylar housing (mandible condyle) to the wall of the condylar guide (glenoid cavity) in the semi-adjustable articulator (anteroposterior, mediolateral, and superior-inferior). The time spent on each technique was timed in seconds (from the beginning of each technique until the wax occlusion fixation). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey test were performed for anteroposterior displacement (two-way) and for time spent on CT recording techniques (one-way) (α < 0.05). Regarding mediolateral and superior-inferior displacements, the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis was performed for the comparison between recording methods, whereas the Mann-Whitney test was performed for the comparison between sides (α < 0.05). RESULTS: The factor recording technique interfered with the anteroposterior displacement (ANOVA: α < 0.001; F = 11.396). The technique D (right side: 3.78 ± 0.69 mm; left side: 3.45 ± 0.74 mm) showed a statistically significant difference compared to the other techniques (EOGA: right side: 3.00 ± 0.00 mm; left side: 3.00 ± 0.00 mm; FMTE: right side: 2.81 ± 0.52 mm; left side: 2.82 ± 0.79 mm; IOGA: right side: 2.90 ± 0.65 mm; left side: 3.12 ± 0.44 mm). The time spent on the recording technique influenced the results (ANOVA: α < 0.001; F = 21.118). The IOGA (340.40 ± 163.41 s) and EOGA (285.93 ± 133.84 s) required more time compared to the D (86.00 ± 34.33 s) and FMTE (101.33 ± 36.72 s) techniques. CONCLUSION: Graphic recordings showed better reproducibility and accuracy of the position of the centric relation.

Assessment of oral hygiene and quality of life of children with autism spectrum disorder and their caregivers: an observational clinical study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the degrees of dependence and presence of bacterial plaque in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the quality of life of children and their caregivers. METHOD AND MATERIALS: This was a cross-sectional observational study. This study included 119 individuals with ASD and their caregivers. Data were collected through a sociodemographic questionnaire, WHOQOL-Bref, and Burden interview to measure quality of life and caregiver burden, respectively. The Autoquestionnaire Qualité de Vie Enfant Imagé questionnaire, adapted in game format, was applied to verify quality of life in children with ASD. An oral clinical examination evaluated the visible plaque index. The collected data were tabulated and organized for statistical analysis with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: It was observed that 52% of the children had a severity of ASD level 1; 70% were dependent for general activities, and 65% were dependent for oral hygiene. Of the 77 children who thoroughly answered the questionnaire about their quality of life, 64.9% had good quality of life, and 35.1% had scores below 48, that is, low quality of life. In general, the caregivers generally presented quality of life with a rate of 60.95 (good) points on the scale. It was observed that gingival bleeding greater than 30% is two (ASD 2 + ASD 3) to three (ASD 3) times more likely to occur in patients who have higher levels of ASD (P < .004). CONCLUSION: It was concluded that the quality of life of individuals with ASD was good, that most children are dependent for their daily activities and oral hygiene, and that they showed reasonable plaque control. On the other hand, the caregivers presented low quality of life and moderate burden.

An alternate impression technique for ocular prostheses.

This article describes an alternative two-step ocular prosthesis impression technique that employs two materials of different consistencies. The method is intended to provide better adaptation to underlying tissues, increased mobility of the prosthesis owing to improvements in facial contours, and improved esthetics, as well as offering the patient greater comfort and security. These advantages and this prosthesis' relative ease of fabrication mean it should be considered as the first step in the management of untreated anophthalmic sockets.

Relationship between self-reported pain, pain threshold, pain catastrophization and quality of life in patients with TMD.

Background: The aim of this study was to verify if there is a relationship between self-reported pain, PPT (pressure pain threshold) of the masseter, temporal and sternocleidomastoid muscles, pain catastrophizing and quality of life in patients with TMD (temporomandibular disorder) of muscular origin. Material and Methods: Ninety-seven patients with muscular TMD (TMD group) and 97 asymptomatic (control group) were included in the study. The evaluation methods used were: 1) Self-reported pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for questions 7, 8 and 9 of the RDC/TMD Axis I questionnaire; 2) The PPT assessment was performed using a digital algometer on the masseter, temporal, and sternocleidomastoid muscles (both sides); 3) Pain catastrophizing was assessed using the PCS (Pain Catastrophizing Scale); and 4) Oral health-related quality of life was assessed using the OHIP-14 (Oral Healthy Impact Profile-14). Data were submitted to Spearman correlation and logistic regression (p<0.05). Results: There were significant positive correlations between self-reported pain (VAS-Q7, VAS-Q8 and VAS-Q9), pain catastrophizing (PCS-Helplessness, PCS-Magnification, PCS-Rumination and PCS-Total) and quality of life (OHIP-14) (p<0.05). There was a significant negative correlation of self-reported pain (VAS-Q8) with PPT of the temporal (left) and sternocleidomastoid (both sides) (p<0.05). The rumination and magnification domains increased the chance of high self-reported pain in all situations (VAS-Q7, VAS-Q8 and VAS-Q9) (p<0.05). The helplessness domain only increased the chance of high self-reported pain for VAS-Q8 (p<0.05). The presence of TMD of muscular origin, high self-reported pain (VAS-Q7) or pain catastrophizing increased the chance of a low quality of life in relation to the control group (p<0.05). In addition, the reduction in sternocleidomastoid PPT increased the chance of poor quality of life (p<0.05). Key words:Myofascial pain syndromes, pain catastrophizing, myalgia, quality of life, surveys and questionnaires, temporomandibular joint disorders.

Effect of Photobiomodulation Combined with Physiotherapy on Functional Performance in Children with Myelomeningo-Cele-Randomized, Blind, Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the electrical activity of the rectus femoris, tibialis anterior, and lateral gastrocnemius muscles during the sit-to-stand task and functional mobility after a neurofunctional physiotherapy protocol associated with PBM. METHODS: Twenty-five children were randomly allocated to either Active PBM + physiotherapy (n = 13) or PBM sham + physiotherapy (n = 12). PBM was carried out with a LED device (850 nm, 25 J, 50 s per point and 200 mW) at four points over the area with absence of a spiny process. Both groups completed a twelve-week supervised program with two weekly 45-60 min sessions. Pre-training and post-training assessments involved the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). Muscle activity was assessed using portable electromyography (BTS Engineering) and the electrodes were positioned on the lateral gastrocnemius, anterior tibialis, and rectus femoris muscles. The RMS data were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: After 24 sessions of the treatment protocol, improvements were found in the PEDI score. The participants presented greater independence in performing the tasks, requiring less assistance from their caregivers. More significant electrical activity was found in the three muscles evaluated between the rest period and execution of the sit-to-stand tasks, both in the more compromised or less compromised lower limbs. CONCLUSION: Neurofunctional physiotherapy with or without PBM improved functional mobility and electrical muscle activity in children with myelomeningocele.

Use of facial protection to prevent reinjury during sports practice.

The objective of the study was to report the prevention of facial reinjury of a volleyball player using a custom-made protective facial shield. A custom-made protective partial facial shield was fabricated using polymethylmethacrylate and was fitted with a soft lining material to provide additional comfort and protection to the injured area. Facial protection provides greater security against possible facial injuries and allows injured areas to recover during sports practice.

Relationship of bruxism with oral health-related quality of life and facial muscle pain in dentate individuals.

Background: To determine whether there is a correlation of bruxism (sleep, daytime, or both) with oral health-related quality of life and facial pain of muscular origin in dentate individuals. Material and Methods: Seventy-four dentate patients (complete dentition) were included in this study. These individuals had pain in the facial muscles due to temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Smokers; and those with obstructive sleep apnea, TMD of joint origin associated or not with pain, malocclusion, and cancer; and users of illicit drugs, psychiatric medications, and alcohol were excluded. Obstructive sleep apnea, bruxism (of sleep and/or daytime), facial muscle pain, and oral health-related quality of life were assessed by the following questionnaires: Berlin Questionnaire, Pintado et al. questionnaire, VAS (Visual Analog Scale) facial muscle pain questionnaire, and Oral Health Impact Profile - 14. Four groups were created: 1) no bruxism; 2) sleep bruxism; 3) daytime bruxism; and 4) sleep and daytime bruxism. Spearman's correlation test was applied to verify if there was a correlation between the collected data. P values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: There was a positive correlation of daytime bruxism with mean pain in the last 3 months (P<0.05) and the worst pain experienced in the last 3 months (P<0.05). Conclusions: Bruxism (sleep, daytime, or both) showed a positive correlation with lower oral health-related quality of life (P<0.05). Key words:Bruxism, facial pain, temporomandibular joint disorders, surveys and questionnaires, health-related quality of life.

The Inflammation Level and a Microbiological Analysis of the Anophthalmic Cavities of Unilateral Ocular Prosthesis Users: A Blind, Randomized Observational Study.

Irritation and biofilm adhesion are complaints associated with ocular prosthesis use. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of prosthesis repolishing on several conditions of anophthalmic volunteers. Participants were divided into two groups: intervention (IG, n = 10) and nonintervention (NIG, n = 6) groups. The anophthalmic cavity, contralateral eye, and prosthesis surface were evaluated at initial, day 15, and day 30 after repolishing. Microbiological analysis (colony-forming units), exfoliative cytology (conjunctiva inflammatory cells), sensory analysis (quantitative mechanical sensory test), tear production (Schirmer's test), and conjunctival inflammation (clinical evaluation) were performed. Nonparametric tests were used to compare groups in the initial period and to analyze periods for the IG (p < 0.05). More microorganisms were formed in the anophthalmic socket and prosthesis than in the contralateral eye in the initial period. For IG, the anophthalmic cavity exhibited more microorganisms and inflammatory clinical signs in the initial period than at 15 and 30 after repolishing. The prosthesis showed greater accumulations of total bacteria and Candida albicans in the initial period than at 15 and 30 days after repolishing. The anophthalmic cavity had more palpebral inflammation than the contralateral eye. In conclusion, repolishing reduced the number of microorganisms and inflammatory signs over time.

Temporomandibular joint vibration before and after exercises and occlusal splints.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds are frequent in patients. The aim of this study was to analyze patients with clicking at the end of opening and at the beginning of closing their mouths treated by muscular exercises through chewing and by occlusal splints. Fifteen patients with clinically verified clicking and TMJ and 15 patients without sounds were selected by the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. They were submitted to electrovibratography at consultation and 60 and 120 days of treatment by occlusal splints and exercises. Patients demonstrated significant reduction of TMJ sounds after treatment, but vibration intensity was not similar with that of the control group after 120 days.

Nerve Growth Factor-Induced Sensitization of the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle and Its Effects on Trigeminal Muscle Sensitivity and Pain Profiles: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Study.

AIMS: To investigate whether localized sensitization of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle using nerve growth factor (NGF) would affect masseter and anterior temporalis muscle sensitivity and pain profiles. METHODS: A total of 28 healthy participants attended two sessions (T0 and T1). At T0, the maximum voluntary occlusal bite force (MVOBF), as well as pressure pain thresholds (PPT), mechanical sensitivity, and referred pain/sensations for the SCM, masseter, and temporalis muscles, were assessed. Participants also completed the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), the Pain Vigilance and Awareness Questionnaire (PVAQ), and the Neck Disability Index (NDI). After these assessments, 14 participants received an injection of NGF into the SCM, and 14 received an injection of isotonic saline solution. At T1 (48 hours postinjection), the participants were again submitted to the same evaluations. RESULTS: NGF caused significant mechanical sensitization in the SCM (P < .025), but not in the masseter or temporalis muscles (P > .208). It also caused significant increases in NDI score (P = .004). No statistically significant differences were found for MVOBF, frequency of referred pain/sensations, or questionnaire scores (P > .248). CONCLUSION: These results suggest that 48 hours after localized sensitization of the SCM, the primary response is impairment of neck function, but not jaw function.

Impact event and orofacial pain amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil: a cross-sectional epidemiological study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to assess the impact of social isolation, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, on mental health, Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) and orofacial pain in men and women. METHODOLOGY: Individuals living in Brazil answered an online questionnaire on their sociodemographic and behavioral aspects, emotional scale (DASS-21), Impact of Event Scale, and Pain Screener in Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD-Pain Screener) during June 2020. Descriptive statistical analyses and logistic and linear regressions were applied (5% significance). RESULTS: Overall, 2301 individuals were included, 89.1% practiced social isolation, 72.6% were employed/studying, at least 15% presented severe or extremely severe levels of emotional distress and presence of powerful (34.1%) and severe impact event (15%). During the outbreak, 53.2% perceived feeling worse and 31.8% reported that orofacial pain started or worsened after the pandemic outbreak. Gender was associated with "social class" (P=0.036), "pain/stiffness in the jaw on awakening" (P=0.037), "change of pain during jaw habits" (P=0.034) and "perception of change in the situations mentioned in the TMD-Pain Screener" (P=0.020), "depression" (P=0.012), "anxiety" (P=0.006) and "impact of the event" (P=8.3E-11). Social isolation had a lesser chance to change the routine, to be practiced by the unemployed/not studying, and to be practiced by men (all with P<0.001). Associations were found between social class and all subscales of the DASS-21 and IES, all with P<0.001. CONCLUSIONS: The practice of social isolation has social determinants. High levels of psychological and event impacts were detected. The presence of orofacial pain seemed to increase during the health crisis, and there were gender differences in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Treatment of Masticatory Muscle Pain with Acupuncture: Is It Necessary to Associate with Occlusal Splints?

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are treated by different modalities including splints, physiotherapy, and acupuncture. Although all of these offer evidencebased benefits to the patients, avoiding overtreatment is of paramount importance. Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of muscle pain treatment with acupuncture combined with or without occlusal splints. Methods: Recruited patients were allocated to G1 (acupuncture) and G2 (acupuncture and occlusal splint) groups and treated in four consecutive weekly sessions (P1, P2, P3, and P4). The reported pain (RP) and the pressure pain threshold (PPT) of the masseter and temporalis muscles were assessed before and after each session. Results: RP decreased after each session in G1, except at P4. In G2, the RP decreased only after the first session, and the PPT did not vary. Conclusion: The assessed treatments did not influence the PPT levels of the masseter and anterior temporalis muscles in patients with temporomandibular disorders. Our findings suggest that occlusal splints may not be mandatory along with the acupuncture treatment.

Extended-pour and conventional alginates: effect of storage time on dimensional accuracy and maintenance of details.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the dimensional stability and maintenance of details of conventional and high stability alginates up to 5-day storage. METHODS: Two types of alginates were selected (n=10) for this study, conventional (Hydrogum) and high stability alginates (Hydrogum 5), which were produced with the aid of a cylindrical metal block and a ring-shaped metal mold (Specifications 18, 19, and 25, ANSI/ADA). Ten images were obtained from the molds for the dimensional stability test, which were taken immediately after their production and at each different storage periods (15 min, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, and 120 h) by a digital camera. The specimens were kept hermetically sealed in plastic bags (23°C) and then used to obtain 140 (n=70) dental stone models, used in the detail reproduction test, in which the angular accuracy of three grooves (20 µm, 50 µm, and 75 µm) was observed at each period. The details reproduction accuracy was classified using a predetermined score classification. Measurements of dimensional changes were made in the Corel DRAW X6 program. The data were submitted to the Student's t-test (α?#8197;= 0.05). RESULTS: A statistically significant difference concerning the size of the matrix was observed after 24h for both alginates, and a statistically significant negative linear dimensional change (contraction) was verified after 24 h of storage (1.52% for the high stability alginate, and 1.32% for the conventional alginate). The high stability alginate kept the full details for 72 hours, while the conventional alginate, for 24 h. Both alginates reproduced the 75 µm groove at all storage periods. CONCLUSION: Impressions made with both alginates presented satisfactory clinical results when the alginates were immediately poured.

Masticatory efficiency, bite force and electrical activity of the masseter and temporalis muscles in bodybuilders.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to compare the masticatory efficiency, the maximum voluntary occlusal bite force (MVOBF) and the electrical activity (EMG) of masticatory muscles of practitioners of upper limb bodybuilding before and after physical activity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty healthy individuals (10 men and 10 women, age from 18 to 30 (mean of 24.7 years old) without masticatory system disorders, that regularly practice hypertrophic physical activity were submitted to the analyses of masticatory efficiency, MVOBF, and surface EMG of the temporalis and masseter muscles. The masticatory efficiency was analyzed by comminution of the artificial material (Optocal®) and a sieving method. The MVOBF was measured by a dynamometer, and EMG was evaluated during resting mandibular position, maximum voluntary clenching (MVC), and MVC with a Parafilm M tape between teeth, and free mastication of chewing gum. The analyses were made before (T0) and immediately after the performance of upper limb bodybuilding exercises (T1). The data of masticatory efficiency and MVOBF were submitted to the Student T-test, and their correlations were analyzed by the Pearson correlation test, and the EMG data were submitted to the 2-way repeated measures ANOVA, all tests with a 5% significance. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease of masticatory efficiency after the training. No statistical difference in the MVOBF and EMG was found, and there was a positive correlation between masticatory efficiency and MVOBF. CONCLUSIONS: Therefore, changes were found for masticatory efficiency only, which decreased after hypertrophic exercise. There was a positive correlation between masticatory efficiency and MVOBF. Key words:Masticatory efficiency, bite force, physical activity, electromyography.

Evaluation of the Preventive Effect of Photobiomodulation on Orofacial Discomfort in Dental Procedures: A Randomized-Controlled, Crossover Study and Clinical Trial.

Background: Orofacial pain has been a prevalent symptom in the worldwide population, which may cause restrictions in daily activities and, consequently, have a great impact on the well-being of affected individuals. Photobiomodulation using light sources, such as low-level laser or light emitting diodes, with different wavelengths, has been widely used in the last years, in addition to being a noninvasive, low-cost resource and reducing pain. Objective: This study aimed at evaluating the effect of photobiomodulation as a protocol treatment to prevent facial muscle discomfort after long-term clinical procedures. Methods: The volunteers were randomized and allocated as follows: laser (n = 16) and placebo (n = 16) groups, following a crossover study design. The laser parameters were as following: 786 nm wavelength, 9 J per point, and 100 mW power of 2.393 W/cm2 irradiance. The discomfort was induced by simulating a 50-min dental procedure (with bilateral mouth open), and the pain scale (assessed bilaterally), tiredness, and temperature measurement through thermography were used for analysis. Results: The results showed a significant lower pain and tiredness in the laser group. Also, the results showed a statistically significant valid temperature change between the groups at times: T1, T40, and T50. Conclusions: According to our results, photobiomodulation showed a positive effect on the face musculature in patients submitted to the treatments, reducing pain and improving the subjective perception of exertion.

Effect of photobiomodulation combined with physical therapy on functional performance in children with myelomeningocele: A protocol randomized clinical blind study.

INTRODUCTION: Myelomeningocele is a severe type of spina bifida, resulting from improper closure of the neural tube. This condition drastically affects the structures of the spinal cord resulting in deficiencies. The combination of these deficiencies results in an overall decrease in mobility and functional participation amongst this population. Physiotherapy plays an essential role in rehabilitating people with MMC. The current literature shows that resources such as photobiomodulation (PBM) may support the rehabilitation of neurological conditions. The aim of the proposed study is to evaluate the effects of photobiomodulation (PBM) combined with physical therapy on functional performance in children with low lumbosacral myelomeningocele. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a protocol randomized clinical blind study, that will include 30 individuals of both sexes, aged between 5 to 8 years, diagnosed with low and sacral lumbar myelomeningocele and capable of performing the sit-to-stand task. The participants will be randomly assigned into two treatment groups: PBM + physiotherapeutic exercises and sham PBM + physiotherapeutic exercises. Irradiation will be carried out with light emitting diode (LED) at a wavelength of 850 nm, energy of 25 J per point, 50 seconds per point and a power of 200 mW. The same device will be used in the placebo group but will not emit light. Muscle activity will be assessed using a portable electromyograph (BTS Engineering) and the sit-to-stand task will be performed as a measure of functioning. Electrodes will be positioned on the lateral gastrocnemius, tibialis anterior and rectus femoris muscles. The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory will be used to assess functional independence. Quality of life will be assessed using the Child Health Questionnaire-Parent Form 50. Changes in participation will be assessed using the Participation and Environment Measure for Children and Youth. The data will be analyzed with the aid of GraphPad PRISM. DISCUSSION: The results of this study can contribute to a better understanding of the effectiveness of PBM on functioning and quality of life in children with myelomeningocele. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04425330.

Effect of acidic beverages on surface roughness and color stability of artificial teeth and acrylic resin.

PURPOSE: The aim was to evaluate the effect of four acidic beverages on the roughness (Ra) and color change (ΔEab) of two brands of artificial teeth and a heat-polymerized acrylic resin (HPAR) for use in a prosthetic base. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All materials were divided into 5 groups, according to the used acidic beverage (artificial saliva - control, red wine, orange juice, coke-based, and lemon juice-based soft drink). The immersion process was divided into two stages: T1 - immersion in the acidic solutions for 10 minutes for 14 days; T2 - after T1, the samples were immersed in grape juice for 14 days. The Ra of the samples was evaluated in a rugosimeter and the ΔEab in a spectrophotometer, before and after the immersions. The analysis of variance of one (ΔEab) and two factors (Ra) and Tukey were performed (α=.05). RESULTS: There was a statistical difference for roughness after immersion (T1) for Trilux and Tritone teeth, regardless of the acid solution. For Trilux teeth, all acid solutions increased Ra (P<.05). For Tritone teeth, only the coke-based soft drink did not statistically change Ra. Grape juice (T2) altered Ra only of artificial teeth (P<.05). The color was changed for all materials, after T1 and T2. CONCLUSION: In general, the acidic solutions changed the Ra and ΔEab of HPAR and artificial teeth after T1. The grape juice altered the roughness only of the artificial teeth, promoting a clinically acceptable color change in the materials.

Photoelastic analysis of stress distribution in oral rehabilitation.

The purpose of this study was to present a literature review about photoelasticity, a laboratory method for evaluation of implants prosthesis behavior. Fixed or removable prostheses function as levers on supporting teeth, allowing forces to cause tooth movement if not carefully planned. Hence, during treatment planning, the dentist must be aware of the biomechanics involved and prevent movement of supporting teeth, decreasing lever-type forces generated by these prosthesis. Photoelastic analysis has great applicability in restorative dentistry as it allows prediction and minimization of biomechanical critical points through modifications in treatment planning.

Effect of Acupuncture on Post-implant Paresthesia.

Paresthesia is defined as an alteration in local sensibility, associated with numbness, tingling, or unpleasant sensations caused by nerve lesions or irritation. It can be temporary or permanent. The treatment protocol for facial paresthesia is primarily based on the use of drugs and implant removal, which may not be completely effective or may require other risk exposure when there is no spontaneous regression. However, other therapeutic modalities such as acupuncture can be used. The aim of this study is to report a case of a patient with paresthesia of the inferior alveolar nerve and pain caused by an implant surgery performed 2 years earlier. The patient received acupuncture treatment during 4 months of weekly sessions. Six points were used: Large Intestine (LI4), Large Intestine (LI11), Stomach (ST36), Liver (LR3), Extra Head and Neck (E-HN-18), and Stomach (ST5). The visual analog scale was used before and after each session for the analysis of paresthesia and pain, together with assessment of the paresthesia by delimitation of the desensitized region of the skin and presented discomfort. Pain remission and reduction in the size of the paresthesia area occurred after four sessions.