New Insights Regarding the Use of Relevant Synthetic Compounds in Dentistry.

Worldwide, synthetic compounds are used for both in-office and at-home dental care. They are a valuable resource for both prophylactic and curative treatments for various dental problems, such as tooth decay, periodontal diseases, and many more. They are typically preferred due to their broad range of actions and ability to produce targeted, rapid, and long-lasting effects. Using a 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwash is capable of reducing the plaque index from 47.69% to 2.37% and the bleeding index from 32.93% to 6.28% after just 2 weeks. Mouthwash with 0.1% OCT is also highly effective, as it significantly lowered the median plaque index and salivary bacterial counts in 152 patients in 5 days compared to a control group (p < 0.0001), while also reducing the gingival index (p < 0.001). When povidone-iodine was used as an irrigant during the surgical removal of mandibular third molars in 105 patients, it resulted in notably lower pain scores after 2 days compared to a control group (4.57 ± 0.60 vs. 5.71 ± 0.45). Sodium hypochlorite is excellent for root canal disinfection, as irrigating with 1% NaOCl completely eliminated the bacteria from canals in 65% patients. A 0.05% CPC mouthwash proved effective for perioperative patient care, significantly decreasing gingival bleeding (p < 0.001) and suppressing Streptococcus levels even one week post-surgery. Lastly, a 6% H2O2 paint-on varnish and 6% H2O2 tray formulations successfully bleached the teeth of 40 patients, maintaining a noticeably whiter appearance up to the 6-month follow-up, with significant color differences from the baseline (p < 0.005). Synthetic compounds have a large research base, which also provides a greater awareness of their mechanism of action and potential adverse effects. For a better understanding of how they work, several methods and assays are performed. These are protocolary techniques through which a compound's efficacy and toxicity are established.

Assessing the Sealing Performance and Clinical Outcomes of Endodontic Treatment in Patients with Chronic Apical Periodontitis Using Epoxy Resin and Calcium Salicylate Seals.

Background and Objectives: Recognizing the significance of a hermetic apical seal for successful root canal treatment, the present investigation aimed to evaluate two sealing materials through an in vitro analysis, as well as to ascertain the clinical outcomes of patients treated with these two sealers in an in vivo setting. Materials and Methods: For the in vitro part of the study, two control groups of thirty monoradicular teeth were obturated with two sealers. Then, the sealers' performance was tested based on a predefined protocol. Group A included 30 patients treated with an epoxy oligomer resin-based sealer (Adseal, MetaBiomed), while Group S comprised 30 patients treated with a polymeric calcium salicylate-based sealer (Sealapex, Kerr). Samples were sectioned and evaluated under the microscope to determine the sealer's tightness by measuring the dye penetration into the root canal filling. For the in vivo part, a prospective study was designed to include 60 patients with chronic apical periodontitis in two endodontic treatment groups, using the same two sealers. Results: The in vitro analysis found that dye penetration in Group A was 0.82 mm (±0.428), while in Group S, the dye penetration was statistically significantly deeper, being 1.23 mm (±0.353). In the in vivo part of the study, the periapical index (PAI) significantly decreased 6 months after endodontic treatment, with 80.0% of patients in Group A having a PAI score of 2 compared to only 56.7% in Group S (p-value = 0.018). Similarly, tooth mobility scores significantly decreased after treatment, but with no difference between groups. The marginal bone loss decreased significantly more in the Adseal group compared to the Sealapex group (23.3% vs. 50.0%, p-value = 0.032). At the same time, 40.0% of patients in Group S had failed tooth healing compared to only 13.3% in Group A (p-value = 0.048). Conclusions: The in vitro study showed that Adseal had a better sealing capacity and a lower degree of dye penetration compared to Sealapex. However, on clinical evaluation in the in vivo study, both patient groups exhibited significant improvements in periapical index, tooth mobility scores, and pain reduction following endodontic treatment. Nevertheless, patients treated with Adseal showed a significantly greater improvement in PAI values, tooth mobility, and teeth healing after treatment. Overall, Adseal, as an endodontic sealer, may provide better sealing capabilities and enhanced clinical outcomes in the treatment of chronic apical periodontitis.

Chemical and Antimicrobial Characterization of Mentha piperita L. and Rosmarinus officinalis L. Essential Oils and In Vitro Potential Cytotoxic Effect in Human Colorectal Carcinoma Cells.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed forms of cancer, and the therapeutic solutions are frequently aggressive requiring improvements. Essential oils (EOs) are secondary metabolites of aromatic plants with important pharmacological properties that proved to be beneficial in multiple pathologies including cancer. Mentha piperita L. (M_EO) and Rosmarinus officinalis L. (R_EO) essential oils are well-known for their biological effects (antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic in different cancer cells), but their potential as complementary treatment in colorectal cancer is underexplored. The aim of the present study was to investigate the M_EO and R_EO in terms of chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic effects in a colorectal cancer cell line-HCT 116. The gas-chromatographic analysis revealed menthone and menthol, and eucalyptol, α-pinene and L-camphor as major compounds in M_EO and R_EO respectively. M_EO exhibited potent antimicrobial activity, moderate antioxidant activity and a low cytotoxic effect in HCT 116 cells. R_EO presented a significant cytotoxicity in colorectal cancer cells and a low antimicrobial effect. The cytotoxic effect on non-cancerous cell line HaCaT was not significant for both essential oils. These results may provide an experimental basis for further research concerning the potential use of M_EO and R_EO for anticancer treatment.

In Vitro and In Ovo Evaluation of the Potential Hepatoprotective Effect of Metformin.

Background and Objectives: Metformin is currently the leading drug of choice for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus, being one of the most widely used drugs worldwide. The beneficial effects of Metformin, however, extend far beyond the reduction of blood glucose. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate Metformin's effects both in vitro and in ovo. Materials and Methods: Metformin has been tested in five different concentrations in human hepatocytes -HepaRG, in terms of cell viability, morphology, structure and number of nuclei and mitochondria, as well as the effect on cell migration. Through the application of HET-CAM, the biocompatibility and potential anti-irritant, as well as protective effects on the vascular plexus were also assessed. Results: According to the results obtained, Metformin increases cell viability without causing morphological changes to cells, mitochondria, or nuclei. Metformin displayed an anti-irritant activity rather than causing irritation at the level of the vascular plexus. Conclusions: In conclusion, Metformin enhances cell viability and proliferation and, has a protective effect on the vascular plexus. Nonetheless, more studies are required to clarify the mechanism of hepatoprotective effect of metformin.

Assessment of the In Vitro Cytotoxic Profile of Two Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics-Tetracycline and Ampicillin-On Pharyngeal Carcinoma Cells.

Background and Objectives: In spite of the fact that antibiotics are considered to be the cornerstone of modern medicine, their use in the treatment of cancer remains controversial. In the present study, the main objective was to examine the effects of two antibiotics-tetracycline and ampicillin-on the viability, morphology, migration, and organization and structure of the nuclei and the actin fiber network of pharyngeal carcinoma cells-Detroit-562. Materials and Methods: In order to determine the viability of the cells, the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method was applied after the cells were stimulated with five concentrations of tetracycline and ampicillin (10, 25, 50, 75, and 100 µM) for 72 h. A scratch assay was used to assess the migration ability of the cells. For the visualization of the nuclei and actin fibers, 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (Dapi) and Rhodamine-Phalloidin were used. Results: There are different effects of tetracycline and ampicillin. Thus, tetracycline: (i) exhibited a concentration-dependent cytotoxic effect, decreasing cell viability to approximately 46%; (ii) inhibits cellular migration up to 16% compared to 60% for control cells; and (iii) induces changes in cell morphology as well as apoptotic changes in the nucleus and F-actin fibers. In contrast, in the case of ampicillin, an increase in viability up to 113% was observed at 10 µM, while a decrease in viability up to approximately 94% was observed at the highest concentration tested (100 µM). Conclusions: The results indicated a different effect regarding the impact on pharyngeal carcinoma cells. Thus, tetracycline has a concentration-dependent cytotoxic effect, while in the case of ampicillin a slight stimulation of cell viability was observed.

Methotrexate and Cetuximab-Biological Impact on Non-Tumorigenic Models: In Vitro and In Ovo Assessments.

Background Objectives: The neoplastic process remains a major health problem facing humanity. Although there are currently different therapeutic options, they raise a multitude of shortcomings related to the toxic effects associated with their administration. Methotrexate (Met) and Cetuximab (Cet) are two basic chemotherapeutics used in cancer practice, but notwithstanding despite many years of use, the mechanisms by which the multitude of side-effects occur are not yet fully understood. Thus, the present study focused on the in vitro and in ovo evaluation of the associated toxic mechanisms on keratinocytes, keys cells in the wound healing process. Materials and Methods: The two chemotherapeutics were tested in eight different concentrations to evaluate keratinocytes viability, the anti-migratory effect, and the influence on the expression of markers involved in the production of cell apoptosis. In addition, the potential irritating effect on the vascular plexus were highlighted by applying the in ovo method, chick chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM). Results: The results revealed that Met induced decreased cell viability as well as increased expression of pro-apoptotic genes. In the vascular plexus of the chorioallantoic membrane, Met caused vascular irritation accompanied by capillary hemorrhage and vascular stasis. Conclusions: Summarizing, Cet presents a safer toxicological profile, compared to Met, based on the results obtained from both in vitro (cell viability, wound healing, RT-PCR assays), and in ovo (HET-CAM assay) techniques.

New Perspectives about Relevant Natural Compounds for Current Dentistry Research.

Natural compounds have been used since the earliest civilizations and remain, to this day, a safer alternative for treating various dental problems. These present antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and antimutagenic effects, making them useful in the prophylactic and curative treatment of various oral diseases such as infections, gingivitis, periodontitis, and even cancer. Due to the high incidence of unpleasant adverse reactions to synthetic compounds, natural products tend to gradually replace conventional treatment, as they can be just as potent and cause fewer, milder adverse effects. Researchers use several methods to measure the effectiveness and safety profile of these compounds, and employing standard techniques also contributes to progress across all medical disciplines.

A Systematic Review of Cardio-Metabolic Properties of Lonicera caerulea L.

In the light of growing concerns faced by Western societies due to aging, natality decline, and epidemic of cardio-metabolic diseases, both preventable and treatable, new and effective strategical interventions are urgently needed in order to decrease their socio-economical encumbrance. The recent focus of research has been redirected towards investigating the potential of haskap (Lonicera caerulea L.) as a novel functional food or superfruit. Therefore, our present review aims to highlight the latest scientific proofs regarding the potential of Lonicera caerulea L. (LC), a perennial fruit-bearing plant rich in polyphenols, in reversing cardio-metabolic dysfunctions. In this regard, a systematic search on two databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) from 1 January 2016 to 1 December 2023 was performed, the keyword combination being Lonicera caerulea L. AND the searched pharmacological action, with the inclusion criteria consisting of in extenso original articles, written in English. The health-enhancing characteristics of haskap berries have been examined through in vitro and in vivo studies from the 35 included original papers. Positive effects regarding cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome have been assigned to the antioxidant activity, hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic effects, as well as to the hepatoprotective and vasoprotective potential. Latest advances regarding LCF mechanisms of action are detailed within this review as well. All these cutting-edge data suggest that this vegetal product would be a good candidate for further clinical studies.

Comprehensive in vitro and in ovo assessment of cytotoxicity: Unraveling the impact of sodium fluoride, xylitol, and their synergistic associations in dental products.

Over the past several decades, dental health products containing fluoride have been widely employed to mitigate tooth decay and promote oral hygiene. However, concerns regarding the potential toxicological repercussions of fluoride exposure have incited continuous scientific inquiry. The current study investigated the cytotoxicity of sodium fluoride (NaF) and xylitol (Xyl), both individually and in combination, utilizing human keratinocyte (HaCaT) and osteosarcoma (SAOS-2) cell lines. In HaCaT cells, NaF decreased proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner and induced apoptosis-related morphological changes at low concentrations, whereas Xyl exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxic effects. The combination of NaF and Xyl reduced cell viability, particularly at higher concentrations, accompanied by apoptosis-like morphological alterations. Sub-cytotoxic NaF concentrations (0.2%) significantly affected caspase activity and the expression of pro-apoptotic genes. Conversely, Xyl demonstrated no discernible effect on these biological parameters. In SAOS-2 cells, NaF increased proliferation at high concentrations, contrasting with Xyl's concentration-dependent cytotoxic effects. The combination of NaF and Xyl had a minimal impact on cell viability. Sub-cytotoxic NaF concentrations did not influence caspase activity or gene expression, while Xyl induced dose-dependent morphological alterations, increased caspase activity, and upregulated pro-apoptotic gene expression. In ovo experiments on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) revealed that only NaF induced irritant effects, suggesting potential vascular adverse outcomes. This study advocates for the combined use of NaF and Xyl, highlighting their cytotoxicity benefits in healthy cells while maintaining safety considerations for tumor cells.

Insights into the Cytotoxicity and Irritant Potential of Chlorhexidine Digluconate: An In Vitro and In Ovo Safety Screening.

Chlorhexidine (CHX) represents one of the most commonly used antiseptics in dentistry and other medical-pharmaceutical fields due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. However, the potential toxic events arising from its common use in practice has become a subject of increasing concern. Thus, the present study was designed to investigate the potential toxicity of CHX digluconate at concentrations covering its antibacterial properties (0.0002-0.2%) in HGF primary gingival fibroblasts, HaCaT immortalized human keratinocytes, and JB6 Cl 41-5a epidermal cells, as well as its irritant action in ovo. Our results indicate that CHX exerted a concentration- and time-dependent cytotoxicity in all cell lines, which was evidenced by the reduction in cell viability, number, and confluence, damaged cell membrane integrity, impaired cell morphology, and specific apoptotic nuclear shape. The highest cytotoxicity was caused by CHX digluconate 0.02% and 0.2%, concentrations, at which an irritant effect on the chorioallantoic membrane was also observed. The novel findings revealed in this research contribute to the overall safety profile of CHX and stand as a basis for further investigations in this regard.

Color Stability of Various Orthodontic Clear Aligner Systems after Submersion in Different Staining Beverages.

This study aimed to compare the color changes in two different orthodontic clear aligner systems after submersion in various beverages for 14 days. The tested aligner systems were Taglus Premium made of polyethylene terephthalate glycol (the TAG group) and CA® Prodin+ made of a transparent copolyester and a thermoplastic elastomer (the PRO group). A total of 56 samples were firstly divided into two groups according to the tested system-TAG and PRO. Each group was subsequently divided in four subgroups according to immersion solution: A-artificial saliva, B-cola, C-coffee, D-red wine. Color measurements were performed on Days 1, 7 and 14 using a portable colorimeter and the CIE L*a*b* system. The obtained results showed significant color changes in both materials when exposed to coffee and red wine (p > 0.05). Samples in the PRO group showed a greater susceptibility to discoloration (higher ΔE values) when compared to the TAG group after submersion in cola (p = 0.025), coffee (p = 0.005) and red wine (p = 0.041) solutions. Statistical analysis revealed that all of the color parameters ΔL*, Δa*, Δb* and ΔE of both tested materials were affected by submersion in coffee solution for 14 days. In conclusion, the CA® Pro+ aligner system is more prone to staining compared to the Taglus material after submersion for 14 days in cola, coffee and red wine solutions. Submersion for 14 days in coffee solution alters all of the color parameters (ΔL, Δa, Δb and ΔE) of both tested aligner materials.

Prospectives and challenges of nano-tailored biomaterials-assisted biological molecules delivery for tissue engineering purposes.

Nano carriers have gained more attention for their possible medical and technological applications. Tailored nanomaterials can transport medications efficiently to targeted areas and allow for sustained medication discharge, reducing undesirable toxicities while boosting curative effectiveness. Nonetheless, transitioning nanomedicines from experimental to therapeutic applications has proven difficult, so different pharmaceutical incorporation approaches in nano scaffolds are discussed. Then numerous types of nanobiomaterials implemented as carriers and their manufacturing techniques are explored. This article is also supported by various applications of nanobiomaterials in the biomedical field.

Bioactive injectable mucoadhesive thermosensitive natural polymeric hydrogels for oral bone and periodontal regeneration.

Periodontitis is an inflammation-related condition, caused by an infectious microbiome and host defense that causes damage to periodontium. The natural processes of the mouth, like saliva production and eating, significantly diminish therapeutic medication residency in the region of periodontal disease. Furthermore, the complexity and diversity of pathological mechanisms make successful periodontitis treatment challenging. As a result, developing enhanced local drug delivery technologies and logical therapy procedures provides the foundation for effective periodontitis treatment. Being biocompatible, biodegradable, and easily administered to the periodontal tissues, hydrogels have sparked substantial an intense curiosity in the discipline of periodontal therapy. The primary objective of hydrogel research has changed in recent years to intelligent thermosensitive hydrogels, that involve local adjustable sol-gel transformations and regulate medication release in reaction to temperature, we present a thorough introduction to the creation and efficient construction of new intelligent thermosensitive hydrogels for periodontal regeneration. We also address cutting-edge smart hydrogel treatment options based on periodontitis pathophysiology. Furthermore, the problems and prospective study objectives are reviewed, with a focus on establishing effective hydrogel delivery methods and prospective clinical applications.

Comparison of In Vitro Antimelanoma and Antimicrobial Activity of 2,3-Indolo-betulinic Acid and Its Glycine Conjugates.

Malignant melanoma is one of the most pressing problems in the developing world. New therapeutic agents that might be effective in treating malignancies that have developed resistance to conventional medications are urgently required. Semisynthesis is an essential method for improving the biological activity and the therapeutic efficacy of natural product precursors. Semisynthetic derivatives of natural compounds are valuable sources of new drug candidates with a variety of pharmacological actions, including anticancer ones. Two novel semisynthetic derivatives of betulinic acid-N-(2,3-indolo-betulinoyl)diglycylglycine (BA1) and N-(2,3-indolo-betulinoyl)glycylglycine (BA2)-were designed and their antiproliferative, cytotoxic, and anti-migratory activity against A375 human melanoma cells was determined in comparison with known N-(2,3-indolo-betulinoyl)glycine (BA3), 2,3-indolo-betulinic acid (BA4) and naturally occurring betulinic acid (BI). A dose-dependent antiproliferative effect with IC50 values that ranged from 5.7 to 19.6 µM was observed in the series of all five compounds including betulinic acid. The novel compounds BA1 (IC50 = 5.7 µM) and BA2 (IC50 = 10.0 µM) were three times and two times more active than the parent cyclic structure B4 and natural BI. Additionally, compounds BA2, BA3, and BA4 possess antibacterial activity against Streptococcus pyogenes ATCC 19615 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 with MIC values in the range of 13-16 µg/mL and 26-32 µg/mL, respectively. On the other hand, antifungal activity toward Candida albicans ATCC 10231 and Candida parapsilosis ATCC 22019 was found for compound BA3 with MIC 29 µg/mL. This is the first report of antibacterial and antifungal activity of 2,3-indolo-betulinic acid derivatives and also the first extended report on their anti-melanoma activity, which among others includes data on anti-migratory activity and shows the significance of amino acid side chain on the observed activity. The obtained data justify further research on the anti-melanoma and antimicrobial activity of 2,3-indolo-betulinic acid derivatives.

Eugenol: In Vitro and In Ovo Assessment to Explore Cytotoxic Effects on Osteosarcoma and Oropharyngeal Cancer Cells.

Cancer is a significant health problem worldwide; consequently, new therapeutic alternatives are being investigated, including those found in the vegetable kingdom. Eugenol (Eug) has attracted attention for its therapeutic properties, especially in stomatology. The purpose of this study was to investigate the cytotoxicity of Eug, in vitro, on osteosarcoma (SAOS-2) and oropharyngeal squamous cancer (Detroit-562) cells, as well as its potential irritant effect in ovo at the level of the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). The data obtained following a 72 h Eug treatment highlighted the reduction in cell viability up to 41% in SAOS-2 cells and up to 37% in Detroit-562 cells, respectively. The apoptotic-like effect of Eug was indicated by the changes in cell morphology and nuclear aspect; the increase in caspase-3/7, -8 and -9 activity; the elevated expression of Bax and Bad genes; and the increase in luminescence signal (indicating phosphatidylserine externalization) that preceded the increase in fluorescence signal (indicating the compromise of membrane integrity). Regarding the vascular effects, slight signs of coagulation and vascular lysis were observed, with an irritation score of 1.69 for Eug 1 mM. Based on these results, the efficiency of Eug in cancer treatment is yet to be clarified.

Enhanced Cytotoxicity and Antimelanoma Activity of Novel Semisynthetic Derivatives of Betulinic Acid with Indole Conjugation.

The prevalence and severity of skin cancer, specifically malignant melanoma, among Caucasians remains a significant concern. Natural compounds from plants have long been explored as potential anticancer agents. Betulinic acid (BI) has shown promise in its therapeutic properties, including its anticancer effects. However, its limited bioavailability has hindered its medicinal applications. To address this issue, two recently synthesized semisynthetic derivatives, N-(2,3-indolo-betulinoyl)diglycylglycine (BA1) and N-(2,3-indolo-betulinoyl)glycylglycine (BA2), were compared with previously reported compounds N-(2,3-indolo-betulinoyl)glycine (BA3), 2,3-indolo-betulinic acid (BA4), and BI. These compounds were evaluated for their effects on murine melanoma cells (B164A5) using various in vitro assays. The introduction of an indole framework at the C2 position of BI resulted in an increased cytotoxicity. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of compound BA4 was enhanced by conjugating its carboxylic group with an amino acid residue. BA2 and BA3, with glycine and glycylglycine residues at C28, exhibited approximately 2.20-fold higher inhibitory activity compared to BA4. The safety assessment of the compounds on human keratinocytes (HaCaT) has revealed that concentrations up to 10 µM slightly reduced cell viability, while concentrations of 75 µM resulted in lower cell viability rates. LDH leakage assays confirmed cell membrane damage in B164A5 cells when exposed to the tested compounds. BA2 and BA3 exhibited the highest LDH release, indicating their strong cytotoxicity. The NR assay revealed dose-dependent lysosome disruption for BI and 2,3-indolo-betulinic acid derivatives, with BA1, BA2, and BA3 showing the most cytotoxic effects. Scratch assays demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition of cell migration, with BA2 and BA3 being the most effective. Hoechst 3342 staining revealed that BA2 induced apoptosis, while BA3 induced necrosis at lower concentrations, confirming their anti-melanoma properties. In conclusion, the semisynthetic derivatives of BI, particularly BA2 and BA3, show promise as potential candidates for further research in developing effective anti-cancer therapies.

Macro, Micro, and Nano-Inspired Bioactive Polymeric Biomaterials in Therapeutic, and Regenerative Orofacial Applications.

Introducing dental polymers has accelerated biotechnological research, advancing tissue engineering, biomaterials development, and drug delivery. Polymers have been utilized effectively in dentistry to build dentures and orthodontic equipment and are key components in the composition of numerous restorative materials. Furthermore, dental polymers have the potential to be employed for medication administration and tissue regeneration. To analyze the influence of polymer-based investigations on practical medical trials, it is required to evaluate the research undertaken in this sector. The present review aims to gather evidence on polymer applications in dental, oral, and maxillofacial reconstruction.

Eugenol Induces Apoptosis in Tongue Squamous Carcinoma Cells by Mediating the Expression of Bcl-2 Family.

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is highly aggressive type of cancer for which the available treatment often causes patients severe side effects. Eugenol (Eug) is the major active constituent of clove essential oil and is known to possess antitumor properties. The present study aimed to assess the in vitro cytotoxicity of eugenol in SCC-4, tongue squamous carcinoma cells, and also in HGF, human gingival fibroblasts. Both cell lines were treated with five concentrations of Eug (0.1-1 mM) for 72 h. Cellular viability was assessed, followed by cellular morphological evaluation and by staining of the nuclei and cytoskeleton. RT-PCR was conducted in order to find the effect eugenol had on the expression on Bad, Bax, and Bcl-2 genes. Eugenol induced a dose-dependent decrease in viability in both cell lines, with the SCC-4 cells being significantly more affected. HGF cells detached from the plate at the highest concentrations used, while SCC-4 cells changed their morphology in a dose-dependent manner, with rounding, floating cells, and confluency loss being observed. Apoptotic-like signs such as chromatin and actin filaments condensation were clearly seen in SCC-4 cells, while RT-PCR revealed a significantly increased expression of pro-apoptotic genes Bax and Bad. Therefore, eugenol exerts its cytotoxic effect in tongue squamous cell carcinoma through inducing apoptosis.

Radiographic methods for locating impacted maxillary canines.

Maxillary canine impaction is a fairly common phenomenon in dental practice. Most studies indicate its palatal position. For a successful orthodontic and∕or surgical therapy, it is necessary to correctly identify the impacted canine in the depth of the maxillary bone, using conventional and digital radiological investigations, each with their advantages and disadvantages. Dental practitioners must indicate the most "targeted" radiological investigation. This paper aims to review the various radiographic techniques available for determining the location of the impacted maxillary canine.

Toxicological Assessment of an Acrylic Removable Orthodontic Appliance Using 2D and 3D In Vitro Methods.

Malocclusion is a global health problem, mainly affecting children and adolescents. For this reason, orthodontic treatment must be, on the one hand, safe, non-toxic, and effective and, on the other hand, it must have the best possible esthetic profile. Thus, the use of orthodontic appliances is addressed to all age groups, including young children, for a long period of time, which is why their safety profile is a matter of real interest. For this reason, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the safety and biocompatibility of an acrylic removable orthodontic appliance made of polymethylmethacrylate and stainless steel alloy made by our team of researchers. To verify the biocompatibility of the medical device, it was immersed in artificial saliva with three different pHs (3, 7, and 10) for a period of ten days. Subsequently, the three types of saliva were tested on human keratinocytes (HaCaT cell line) in terms of viability and modification of cell morphology. Finally, the use of 3D reconstructed human epidermis verified the cytotoxic and irritating potential of the medical device, thus providing relevant information regarding its biocompatibility. The results revealed that by maintaining the orthodontic device in the saliva there is no release of substances with a toxic effect on the human keratinocytes and on the 3D reconstructed human epidermis. There were also no significant changes in cell morphology. In conclusion, it is suggested that the acrylic removable appliance has a safety profile recommended for in vivo use.