Salivary 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine levels in patients with oral cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: DNA is an important target for oxidative attack and its modification may increase the risk of mutagenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare salivary levels of the oxidative stress biomarker 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in patients with oral cancer (OC) compared to the control group by a comprehensive search of the available literature. METHODS: The present systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered in Open Science Framework (OSF): https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/X3YMR. Four electronic databases were used to identify studies for this systematic review: PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science from January 15, 2005, to April 15, 2021. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool was used to assess article quality. RESULTS: Of the 166 articles identified, 130 articles were excluded on the basis of title and abstract screening (duplicates, reviews, etc.). Thirty-six articles were evaluated at full text and 7 articles met the inclusion criteria. Of these, only 5 studies had compatible data for quantitative analysis. An increase in salivary 8-OHdG levels was found in patients with OC compared to healthy subjects, but without statistical significance. 8-OHdG: SMD = 2,72 (95%CI= -0.25-5.70); *p = 0.07. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests a clear trend of increased 8-OHdG levels in saliva of OC patients compared to the control group. However, further studies are required to clarify and understand the altered levels of this oxidative stress marker.

Interactions Between Oral Microbiota and Cancers in the Aging Community: A Narrative Review.

The oral microbiome potentially wields significant influence in the development of cancer. Within the human oral cavity, an impressive diversity of more than 700 bacterial species resides, making it the second most varied microbiome in the body. This finely balanced oral microbiome ecosystem is vital for sustaining oral health. However, disruptions in this equilibrium, often brought about by dietary habits and inadequate oral hygiene, can result in various oral ailments like periodontitis, cavities, gingivitis, and even oral cancer. There is compelling evidence that the oral microbiome is linked to several types of cancer, including oral, pancreatic, colorectal, lung, gastric, and head and neck cancers. This review discussed the critical connections between cancer and members of the human oral microbiota. Extensive searches were conducted across the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases to provide an up-to-date overview of our understanding of the oral microbiota's role in various human cancers. By understanding the possible microbial origins of carcinogenesis, healthcare professionals can diagnose neoplastic diseases earlier and design treatments accordingly.

Interactions between oral microbiota shifts and cancer: The oral microbiome potentially wields significant influence in the development of cancer. Within the human oral cavity, an impressive diversity of more than 700 bacterial species resides, making it the second most varied microbiome in the body. This finely balanced oral microbiome ecosystem is vital for sustaining oral health. However, disruptions in this equilibrium, often brought about by dietary habits and inadequate oral hygiene, can result in various oral ailments like periodontitis, cavities, gingivitis, and even oral cancer. There is compelling evidence that the oral microbiome is linked to several types of cancer, including oral, pancreatic, colorectal, lung, gastric, and head and neck cancers. This review discussed the critical connections between cancer and members of the human oral microbiota. Extensive searches were conducted across the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases to provide an up-to-date overview of our understanding of the oral microbiota's role in various human cancers. By understanding the possible microbial origins of carcinogenesis, healthcare professionals can diagnose neoplastic diseases earlier and design treatments accordingly.

The effect of photobiomodulation therapy in common maxillofacial injuries: Current status.

The use of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) may be used for treating trauma to the maxillofacial region. The effects of PBMT on maxillofacial injuries were discussed in this review article. The electronic databases Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science were thoroughly searched. This review included in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies describing how PBMT can be used in maxillofacial tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Some studies suggest that PBMT may offer a promising therapy for traumatic maxillofacial injuries because it can stimulate the differentiation and proliferation of various cells, including dental pulp cells and mesenchymal stem cells, enhancing bone regeneration and osseointegration. PBMT reduces pain and swelling after oral surgery and tooth extraction in human and animal models of maxillofacial injuries. Patients with temporomandibular disorders also benefit from PBMT in terms of reduced inflammation and symptoms. PBMT still has some limitations, such as the need for standardizing parameters. PBMT must also be evaluated further in randomized controlled trials in various maxillofacial injuries. As a result, PBMT offers a safe and noninvasive treatment option for patients suffering from traumatic maxillofacial injuries. PBMT still requires further research to establish its efficacy in clinical practice and determine the optimal parameters.

In silico assessment of biocompatibility and toxicity: molecular docking and dynamics simulation of PMMA-based dental materials for interim prosthetic restorations.

AIM: This study aimed to comprehensively assess the biocompatibility and toxicity profiles of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and its monomeric unit, methyl methacrylate (MMA), crucial components in dental materials for interim prosthetic restorations. METHODOLOGY: Molecular docking was employed to predict the binding affinities, energetics, and steric features of MMA and PMMA with selected receptors involved in bone metabolism and tissue development, including RANKL, Fibronectin, BMP9, NOTCH2, and other related receptors. The HADDOCK standalone version was utilized for docking calculations, employing a Lamarckian genetic algorithm to explore the conformational space of ligand-receptor interactions. Furthermore, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations over 100 nanoseconds were conducted using the GROMACS package to evaluate dynamic actions and structural stability. The LigandScout was utilized for pharmacophore modeling, which employs a shape-based screening approach to identify potential ligand binding sites on protein targets. RESULTS: The molecular docking studies elucidated promising interactions between PMMA and MMA with key biomolecular targets relevant to dental applications. MD simulation results provided strong evidence supporting the structural stability of PMMA complexes over time. Pharmacophore modeling highlighted the significance of carbonyl and hydroxyl groups as pharmacophoric features, indicating compounds with favorable biocompatibility profiles. CONCLUSION: This study underscores the potential of PMMA in dental applications, emphasizing its structural stability, molecular interactions, and safety considerations. These findings lay a foundation for future advancements in dental biomaterials, guiding the design and optimization of materials for enhanced biocompatibility. Future directions include experimental validation of computational findings and the development of PMMA-based dental materials with improved biocompatibility and clinical performance.

Faculty application and perceived effectiveness of cognitive psychology principles in medical education. A mixed method study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to explore the extent to which faculty members in undergraduate medical education apply cognitive psychology principles in their teaching practices, and to evaluate the perceived effectiveness of these principles in enhancing student learning. METHODS: This mixed method study was conducted on faculty members of public and private sector universities. Focused group discussions were conducted, and the responses of the participants were measured on a 5-point- Likert Scale. The instrument was tested for validity and reliability by measuring Cronbach's alpha and performing exploratory factor analysis. Mann-Whitney U test was applied on the attributes scores to compare 13 attributes by institutions, designations and domains. RESULTS: One theme, 7 sub-themes and 19 categories were identified from the focused group discussion. as Kaiser- Meyer-Olkin index was 0.88 and Bartlett's test of sphericity was significant. Reliability was established at 0.95. The faculty self-perceived practicing psychology principles mostly scored in the middle level, where they think they apply less strategies. While highly significant results were noted for using Meyer's multimedia principles. CONCLUSION: Faculty members followed the principles of cognitive psychology to some extent. However, they all felt that using these principles can transform the teaching and learning of medical education.

Analysis of shade-matching ability in dental students: a comparative study under clinical and correcting light conditions.

BACKGROUND: Selecting the ideal tooth shade is essential to the success of aesthetic dental restorations. Students' cognitive abilities are involved in the multifaceted and intricate process of shade matching. Hence, the present study aimed to assess and compare the shade-matching ability of undergraduate dental students in various years of dental education under clinical and correcting light. METHODS: This comparative cross-sectional study was instigated amongst male 4th, 5th, and 6th-year students of the dental complex of King Faisal University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A total of 72 male dental students assessed the shade under clinical (fluorescent light) and correcting light (handheld Dental Base Light) by using VITA Classical shade guides. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 23 (Armonk, NY, USA). The Chi-square test was used to evaluate the association between correct and incorrect shade matching under correcting and clinical light. RESULTS: Out of 72 male students, 22(30.6%) were from the 4th year, 26(36.1%) were from the 5th year, and 24(33.3%) were from the 6th year, with a mean age of 22.92 ± 1.01 years. The majority of the 6th-year students selected shade of anterior tooth # 11 correctly under clinical and correcting light, and 3(12.5%) students selected incorrectly under clinical and correcting light, with a statistically significant association among them (p = 0.004). As far as the shade selection of the posterior tooth is concerned, a statistically significant difference was observed under clinical light among all clinical students (p = 0.008). CONCLUSION: The clinical performance of dental students in shade matching improved with advancing years of dental education. Additionally, the shade matching ability of all groups of dental students was superior under correcting light compared to conditions under clinical light.

Analysis of satisfaction levels and perceptions of clinical competency: a mixed method study on objective structured clinical examinations in undergraduate dental students.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the satisfaction levels, perceptions of developing clinical competencies through objective structured clinical examination and to explore the experiences, challenges, and suggestions of undergraduate dental students. METHODS: The study adopted a mixed-method convergent design. Quantitative data were collected from 303 participants through surveys, evaluating satisfaction levels with objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). Additionally, qualitative insights were gathered through student focus group interviews, fundamental themes were developed from diverse expressions on various aspects of OSCE assessments. The Chi-Square tests, was performed to assess associations between variables. Data integration involved comparing and contrasting quantitative and qualitative findings to derive comprehensive conclusions. RESULTS: The satisfaction rates include 69.4% for the organization of OSCE stations and 57.4% for overall effectiveness. However, a crucial challenge was identified, with only 36.7% of students receiving adequate post-OSCE feedback. Furthermore, a majority of students (50%) expressed concerns about the clinical relevance of OSCEs. The study showed a significant associations (p < 0.05) between satisfaction levels and years of study as well as previous OSCE experience. Student focus group interviews revealed diverse perspectives on OSCE assessments. While students appreciate the helpfulness of OSCEs, concerns were raised regarding time constraints, stress, examiner training, and the perceived lack of clinical relevance. CONCLUSION: The students anticipated concerns about the clinical relevance of OSCEs, highlighting the need for a more aligned assessment approach. Diverse perspectives on OSCE assessments reveal perceived helpfulness alongside challenges such as lack of feedback, examiner training, time constraints, and mental stress.

Dental implant considerations in patients with systemic diseases: An updated comprehensive review.

BACKGROUND: Various medical conditions and the drugs used to treat them have been shown to impede or complicate dental implant surgery. It is crucial to carefully monitor the medical status and potential post-operative complications of patients with systemic diseases, particularly elderly patients, to minimize the risk of health complications that may arise. AIM: The purpose of this study was to review the existing evidence on the viability of dental implants in patients with systemic diseases and to provide practical recommendations to achieve the best possible results in the corresponding patient population. METHODS: The information for our study was compiled using data from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases and searched separately for each systemic disease included in our work until October 2023. An additional manual search was also performed to increase the search sensitivity. Only English-language publications were included and assessed according to titles, abstracts and full texts. RESULTS: In total, 6784 studies were found. After checking for duplicates and full-text availability, screening for the inclusion criteria and manually searching reference lists, 570 articles remained to be considered in this study. CONCLUSION: In treating patients with systemic conditions, the cost-benefit analysis should consider the patient's quality of life and expected lifespan. The success of dental implants depends heavily on ensuring appropriate maintenance therapy, ideal oral hygiene standards, no smoking and avoiding other risk factors. Indications and contraindications for dental implants in cases of systemic diseases are yet to be more understood; broader and hardcore research needs to be done for a guideline foundation.

Activity and levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-8 in saliva of children and young adults with dental caries: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Cytokines play an important role in the immunopathogenesis of dental caries. A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out with the following three objectives: 1)To deepen and discuss through a comprehensive analysis of the literature the effects of dental caries on the activity and levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-8 in saliva of children and young adults, 2)To compare the levels of this cytokines in saliva of the exposure group (moderate-severe dental caries) with the control group (caries-free or mild dental caries), and 3)To determine whether the levels of these cytokines could be used as a complementary clinical diagnostic tool to assess the severity of dental caries. METHODS: The protocol followed PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines and was registered in the Open Science Framework (OSF): https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/MF74V . A digital search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus, and Google Schoolar databases from February 15th, 2012, to January 13th, 2024. The methodological validity of the selected studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to evaluate the association between dental caries/health, and the concentration of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-8. RESULTS: The search strategy provided a total of 126 articles, of which 15 investigations met the inclusion criteria. The total number of patients studied was 1,148, of which 743 represented the case/exposure group, and 405 represented the control group. The age of the patients ranged from 3 to 25 years. IL-6 was the most prevalent cytokine in the saliva of children and young adults with active dental caries. The meta-analysis revealed that there are significant differences between the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in saliva of children with active dental caries compared to their control groups. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that IL-6 and TNF-α levels may have potential as complementary biomarkers for assessing dental caries severity. However, further research is needed to validate these findings in larger and more diverse populations before clinical application.

Oral findings and comprehensive dental management of Moebius syndrome: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Moebius syndrome (MS) is a rare, non-progressive, neuromuscular, congenic disease involving the oral maxillofacial region. The present study aimed to describe the oral and extraoral findings in MS patients and their comprehensive dental management. METHODS: A digital search was carried out in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, restricted to articles in English from Jan 01, 2000, to Apr 02, 2023, following PRISMA guidelines. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated following the JBI guidelines. Qualitative analysis was carried out on the overall result, extraoral and intraoral manifestations, considering dental management as appropriate. RESULTS: Twenty-three studies were included, and a total of 124 cases of patients with MS were analyzed. The 82% of patients with MS were younger than 15 years of age. The most frequent extraoral manifestations were blinking and visual problems (78,22%), malformations of the upper and lower limbs (58,22%), bilateral facial paralysis (12,90%), lack of facial expression (12.09%), and unilateral facial paralysis (6,45%). On the other hand, the most frequent oral manifestations were tongue deformities (78,22%), micrognathia (37,90%), labial incompetence (36,29%), cleft palate (22,87%), gothic palate (16,12%), microstomia (15,32%), anterior open bite (15,32%), dental caries (8,87%), and periodontal disease (8,06%). The majority of MS patients were treated by pediatric dentistry (60,86%), using a surgical approach (56,52%), and orthodontic and orthopedic maxillary (43,47%) followed by restorative (39,13%), and periodontal treatments (21,73%). CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review demonstrates that patients with MS present a wide variety of oral and extraoral manifestations, for which dental treatments are planned and tailored to each patient in accordance with oral manifestations. These treatments encompass problem resolution and oral health maintenance, incorporating recent techniques in managing and treating patients with MS.

Smile aesthetics in Pakistani population: dentist preferences and perceptions of anterior teeth proportion and harmony.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate dentist perceptions of attractive smiles in the Pakistani population, considering different dental proportions. METHODS: Maxillary casts and digital images were used to create symmetrical representations of anterior teeth. dentists' preferences for good and bad teeth proportions, width/height ratios, and various dental proportions (golden, recurring esthetic dental (RED), golden percentage, Preston, and local/observed) were assessed using one sample and paired t-test. The Chi-square test was used to determine the gender disparities and factors affecting smile attractiveness. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was taken as significant. RESULTS: The RED proportion emerged as the preferred choice for normal-sized teeth, with specialists and general dentists favoring it over the golden proportion. For tall teeth, the golden proportion was predominantly preferred. The golden percentage received limited preference for aesthetic smile construction. CONCLUSIONS: The smiles created using the principles of RED proportion were opted as the most attractive by local dentists. Factors such as tooth arrangement, color, and midline were highlighted as essential considerations in aesthetic smile construction.

Increased of IL-18 levels are associated with periodontitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The presence of a polymicrobial dysbiotic film in direct and constant contact with periodontal tissues initiates the host immune response. Interleukin 18 (IL-18) triggers up-regulates the production of other proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6), creating a vicious cycle that expands the inflammatory and destructive process in the periodontal tissue. A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out with the main propose to investigate IL-18 expression in different biological samples from subjects with chronic periodontitis. METHODS: The protocol followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered in Open Science Framework (OSF): https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/BS9GM . A digital search was conducted in the databases PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Web of Science and Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source databases were consulted from March 15th, 2005 to February 10th, 2023. Study quality was assessed using the JBI tool for cross-sectional studies and clinical trials. A meta-analysis was performed using a random/fixed effects model to evaluate the concentration of IL-18 in serum, plasma, saliva, gingival tissue and GCF of exposure group compared to control group. RESULTS: The search strategy provided a total of 3,156 articles, of which 18 investigations met the inclusion criteria and 15 articles were quantitatively analyzed. The total number of patients studied was 1,275 (682 cases and 593 controls). The meta-analysis revealed significantly elevated IL-18 levels of serum, saliva and GCF of subjects with chronic periodontitis compared to healthy subjects (Serum: SMD = 62.73, 95%CI: 25.43-100.03, Z = 3.29, p = 0.001*; Saliva: SMD = 243.63, 95%CI: 8.68-478.59, Z = 2.03, p = 0.042*; GCF: SMD = 150.26, 95%CI: 56.86-243.66, Z = 3.15, p = 0.02*). CONCLUSION: IL-18 levels in serum, saliva and GCF could have the potential to be used as complementary diagnostic tools to the clinical and radiographic parameters in subjects with periodontitis.

IL-23/IL-17 axis levels in gingival crevicular fluid of subjects with periodontal disease: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: The IL-23/IL-17 axis plays an important role in the immunopathogenesis of periodontal disease. A systematic review was conducted to synthesize all research reporting on the levels of the IL-23/IL-17 axis in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from subjects with gingivits, and periodontitis, compared to healthy controls. METHODS: The protocol followed the PRISMA, and Cochrane guidelines, and was registered with the Open Science Framework (OSF): https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/7495V . A search was conducted in the electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Google Schoolar, and Cochrane from November 15th, 2005, to May 10th, 2023. The quality of the studies was assessed using the JBI tool for cross-sectional studies. RESULTS: The search strategy provided a total of 2,098 articles, of which 12 investigations met the inclusion criteria. The total number of patients studied was 537, of which 337 represented the case group (subjects with gingivitis, and chronic periodontitis), and 200 represented the control group (periodontally healthy subjects). The ages of the patients ranged from 20 to 50 years, with a mean (SD) of 36,6 ± 4,2, of which 47% were men, and 53% were women. 75% of the investigations collected GCF samples with absorbent paper strips, and analyzed cytokine IL-17 levels individually. In addition, qualitative analysis revealed that there are differences between IL-23/IL-17 axis levels in subjects with chronic periodontitis, gingivitis and healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS: Thus, IL-23/IL-17 axis levels could be used in the future as a diagnostic tool to distinguish between periodontal diseases.

The effect of three additives on properties of mineral trioxide aggregate cements: a systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro studies.

BACKGROUND: Several efforts have been made to improve mechanical and biological properties of calcium silicate-based cements through changes in chemical composition of the materials. This study aimed to investigate the physical (including setting time and compressive strength) and chemical (including calcium ion release, pH level) properties as well as changes in cytotoxicity of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) after the addition of 3 substances including CaCl2, Na2HPO4, and propylene glycol (PG). METHODS: The systematic review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Electronic searches were performed on PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases, spanning from 1993 to October 2023 in addition to manual searches. Relevant laboratory studies were included. The quality of the included studies was assessed using modified ARRIVE criteria. Meta-analyses were performed by RevMan statistical software. RESULTS: From the total of 267 studies, 24 articles were included in this review. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that addition of PG increased final setting time and Ca2+ ion release. Addition of Na2HPO4 did not change pH and cytotoxicity but reduced the final setting time. Incorporation of 5% CaCl2 reduced the setting time but did not alter the cytotoxicity of the cement. However, addition of 10% CaCl2 reduced cell viability, setting time, and compressive strength. CONCLUSION: Inclusion of 2.5% wt. Na2HPO4 and 5% CaCl2 in MTA can be advisable for enhancing the physical, chemical, and cytotoxic characteristics of the admixture. Conversely, caution is advised against incorporating elevated concentrations of PG due to its retarding effect. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021253707.

Prevalence of rapid calculus formers and its associated factors amongst patients visiting a dental hospital: a preliminary investigation.

BACKGROUND: This study focuses on the determination and classification of patients as rapid or slowcalculusformersbasedontherateofcalculusformationafteroralprophylaxis. It also aims to determine the factors that positively impact the formation and deposition of calculus in patients and identify the factors that accelerate or decelerate the deposition of calculus. METHODS: The study was conducted in the Department of Periodontology, Dr Harvansh Singh Judge Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Panjab University Chandigarh, India. We examined 51 patients after a month of the oral prophylaxis, recorded the amount of calculus present in the oral cavity, and then recorded a detailed history which was briefly divided into Age, Sex, Residence, Oral habits, and maintenance of oral hygiene. RESULTS: An evident and meaningful link was found between age and the rate at which dental calculus forms. The average age of individuals differed significantly between the rapid and slow calculus formers, which could be ascribed to the decline in manual dexterity as age increases, resulting in less effective oral hygiene habits, including toothbrushing. None of the other factors dietary and oral hygiene related could be identified distinctly, probably owing to the small sample of the study. The oral health status exhibited a significant difference between slow and rapid calculus formers. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of the study, the data analyzed, identified age as a significant determinant that impact the rate of formation of calculus in patients and reported a significant difference in the oral health status of rapid and slow calculus formers.

Properties of a novel composite elastomeric polymer vinyl polyether siloxane in comparison to its parent materials: a systemic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The effectiveness of newly developed elastomeric polymer hybrid siloxane (PVES), which combines the properties of polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) elastomers, has been a subject of interest in recent studies. This study aimed to assess the physical properties of hybrid PVES materials by analyzing existing data from recent studies on this topic. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted to retrieve peer-reviewed articles published up to February 5, 2023. The population, intervention, comparison, and pertinent outcomes were specified under the PICO framework. The primary data analysis was performed in Microsoft Excel, while statistical analysis used Meta-Essentials. RESULTS: Of the 1152 articles assessed, 14 met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis of the selected studies indicated that polyether (PE) and polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) were highly correlated (two-tailed p-values of 0.000 and 0.001, respectively) with the improved tensile strength of vinyl polyether siloxane (PVES) with a significantly positive effect size. Similarly, the hydrophilic characteristics of PVES were significantly improved compared to those of PE and PVS. PE was a significant contributor to the hydrophilic characteristics of PVES, with a two-tailed p-value of 0.000. The effect size was highly positive for hydrophilicity but showed high heterogeneity. It was also observed that the dimensional accuracy of PVES was comparable to those of PE and PVS, with no statistically significant differences among the three materials. CONCLUSIONS: PVES showed promising features, with improved tensile strength and hydrophilic characteristics compared to those of PE and PVS.

Comparative analysis of different types of occlusal splints for the management of sleep bruxism: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Sleep bruxism is a prevalent condition in dentistry practice, characterized by involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth during sleep. Several therapies, including occlusal splints, have been used to manage sleep bruxism and temporomandibular disorders, including occlusal splints. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of different occlusal splints in managing sleep bruxism. METHODS: The PICO framework encompasses the characterization of the population, intervention, comparison, and pertinent outcomes. A comprehensive and systematic literature review was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify grey literature. The search specifically targeted scientific studies published before September 20, 2023. The Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool assessed the accuracy of the included Randomized Control Trials (RCTs). The modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale assessed non-randomized studies. Data were systematically extracted, synthesized, and reported thematically. RESULTS: Out of the total of 808 articles that were evaluated, only 15 articles were found to meet the specified inclusion criteria. Adjustable splints, such as full-occlusion biofeedback splints, were more effective in reducing sleep bruxism episodes, improving patient-reported symptoms, and enhancing overall well-being. The impact of different occlusal sprints on electromyographic activity varies, and potential adverse effects should be considered individually. CONCLUSIONS: This review provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of occlusal splints in managing sleep bruxism. The results of this study indicate that occlusal splint therapy is a viable treatment approach for sleep bruxism.

Finite element analysis of stress distribution on residual root structure in socket shield procedure following immediate dental implant placement: an in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: The success of implants in the socket shield technique relies on stress experienced by root fragments within the socket. Although there is no consensus on optimal root fragment thickness, varying thicknesses and dynamic implant placement induce stress in various directions and degrees. This study aimed to assess biomechanical response and stress distribution across different root fragment thicknesses in the socket shield procedure. METHODS: This in vitro study was conducted to assess and compare the stress distribution on residual root structures of varying thicknesses positioned within the labial aspect of the maxillary incisor socket during immediate implant placement of standard dimensions. The procedure involved applying an insertional torque of 40 Ncm, and the analysis was conducted using finite element analysis software. RESULTS: Utilizing the Numerical Technique with Abaqus software for explicit dynamics, von Mises stress and principal strain were analyzed on the root structure and bone under nonlinear contact conditions during implant torque application. For Model A, a loading torque of 40 Ncm was applied vertically on the implant, along with a horizontal force of 20 N on the root structure and bone. Results indicated maximum stress of 12.68 MPa on the root structure with a thickness of 0.5 mm and 5.61 MPa on the bone, with principal strains of 6.82E-03 and 4.10E-03, respectively. In Model B, with a root structure thickness of 1.0 mm, the maximum stress increased to 19.70 MPa, while the bone stress rose to 9.51 MPa, with principal strains of 1.03E-02 and 6.09E-03. Model C, with a root structure thickness of 1.5 mm, exhibited a maximum stress of 21.58 MPa on the root and 10.12 MPa on the bone, with principal strains of 1.16E-02 and 6.10E-03. Lastly, in Model D, with a root structure thickness of 2.0 mm, the maximum stress on the root structure and bone escalated to 28.74 MPa and 11.38 MPa, respectively, with principal strains of 1.55E-02 and 8.31E-03. CONCLUSIONS: As the thickness of the shield increases (ranging from 0.5 to 2 mm) in socket shield procedures with immediate implant placement, both stress on the root fragment and bone and principal micro-strain escalate. However, employing a shield thickness within the range of 0.5 to 2 mm does not lead to any adverse stress generation on the residual root fragment. However, for enhanced safety, it is recommended to restrict the maximum diameter and extension of the root fragment to 1.5 mm when considering implant sizes and socket diameter for the socket shield technique.

Dental biomaterials redefined: molecular docking and dynamics-driven dental resin composite optimization.

BACKGROUND: Dental resin-based composites are widely recognized for their aesthetic appeal and adhesive properties, which make them integral to modern restorative dentistry. Despite their advantages, adhesion and biomechanical performance challenges persist, necessitating innovative strategies for improvement. This study addressed the challenges associated with adhesion and biomechanical properties in dental resin-based composites by employing molecular docking and dynamics simulation. METHODS: Molecular docking assesses the binding energies and provides valuable insights into the interactions between monomers, fillers, and coupling agents. This investigation prioritizes SiO2 and TRIS, considering their consistent influence. Molecular dynamics simulations, executed with the Forcite module and COMPASS II force field, extend the analysis to the mechanical properties of dental composite complexes. The simulations encompassed energy minimization, controlled NVT and NPT ensemble simulations, and equilibration stages. Notably, the molecular dynamics simulations spanned a duration of 50 ns. RESULTS: SiO2 and TRIS consistently emerged as influential components, showcasing their versatility in promoting solid interactions. A correlation matrix underscores the significant roles of van der Waals and desolvation energies in determining the overall binding energy. Molecular dynamics simulations provide in-depth insights into the mechanical properties of dental composite complexes. HEMA-SiO2-TRIS excelled in stiffness, BisGMA-SiO2-TRIS prevailed in terms of flexural strength, and EBPADMA-SiO2-TRIS offered a balanced combination of mechanical properties. CONCLUSION: These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing dental composites tailored to diverse clinical requirements. While EBPADMA-SiO2-TRIS demonstrates distinct strengths, this study emphasizes the need for further research. Future investigations should validate the computational findings experimentally and assess the material's response to dynamic environmental factors.

Evaluation of the effect of chemical disinfection and ultraviolet disinfection on the dimensional stability of polyether impression material: an in-vitro study.

BACKGROUND: Various methods, chemical and physical, disinfect dental impressions. Common chemicals include 1% Sodium Hypochlorite and 2% glutaraldehyde, while UV radiation is a prevalent physical method. Few studies compare their effects on dimensional stability in polyether impressions. This study aims to assess such stability using different disinfection methods. Therefore, this study was planned to evaluate the dimensional stability of polyether impression material using different disinfection methods. METHODS: This in vitro study compared the effects of chemical disinfectants (1% Sodium Hypochlorite and 2% glutaraldehyde) and UV irradiation on the dimensional stability of polyether impression material. Groups A, B, C, and D, each with ten samples (N = 10), were studied. Group A was untreated (control). Group B was treated with 2% glutaraldehyde for 20 min, Group C with 1% Sodium Hypochlorite for 20 min, and Group D with UV rays for 20 min. A pilot milling machine drill was used to make four parallel holes labeled A, B, C, and D in the anterior and premolar regions from right to left. After sequential drilling, four implant analogs were positioned using a surveyor for accuracy. Ten open-tray polyether impressions were made and treated as described in the groups, followed by pouring the corresponding casts. Distortion values for each disinfection method were measured using a coordinate measuring machine capable of recording on the X- and Y-axes. RESULTS: A comprehensive analysis was conducted using the one-way ANOVA test for distinct groups labeled A, B, C, and D, revealing significant differences in the mean distances for X1, X2, X4, X5, and X6 among the groups, with p-values ranging from 0.001 to 0.000. However, no significant differences were observed in X3. Notably, mean distances for the Y variables exhibited substantial differences among the groups, emphasizing parameter variations, with p-values ranging from 0.000 to 0.033. The results compared the four groups using the one-way ANOVA test, revealing statistically significant distance differences for most X and Y variables, except for X3 and Y4. Similarly, post-hoc Tukey's tests provided specific pairwise comparisons, underlining the distinctions between group C and the others in the mean and deviation distances for various variables on both the X- and Y-axes. CONCLUSIONS: This study found that disinfection with 1% sodium hypochlorite or UV rays for 20 min maintained dimensional stability in polyether impressions.