Surface quality after implantoplasty.

Implantoplasty describes a method using rotating instruments to smoothen rough implant surfaces which are exposed to the oral cavity. The goal of this procedure is to reduce the adherence of plaque and to facilitate the cleaning of the implant surfaces. The aim of this study was to compare different rotary instruments for their effectiveness and efficiency to smoothen micro-rough implant surfaces. For this purpose, 22 implants were processed with 10 different cutters and one diamond bur under standardized conditions, and then analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. In addition, collection of roughness data (Ra values, arithmetic mean roughness, Rz values, and average roughness) was obtained by using tactile surface measurement. The time needed to reach a subjectively-assessed smooth surface was determined for each instrument. The statistical analysis included the calculation of the mean values (± SD) for the required time, Ra and Rz values and the examination of correlations between these parameters, taking the logarithm of the values obtained and comparing them with linear mixed models. Irrespective of the drill design (spherical or conical) all rotary instruments used in the study showed obvious variations in processing times as well as significant differences (p < 0.001) of Ra and Rz values. The processing time required did not correlate with the Ra-(p = 0.44) or the Rz values (p = 0.83). Compared to spherical carbide cutters with transversal grooves, the conical cutters had the lowest mean roughness values (<1 micron).

Recognizing calcifications of the carotid artery on panoramic radiographs to prevent strokes.

Panoramic radiographs are made routinely in dentistry and are regarded as a standard component of an initial dental examination. Often, these radiographs show opacities in the carotid artery territory (CAT), which frequently arise as a result of calcification in the internal (ICA) or external carotid artery (ECA). This study details the examination of patients with suspected calcifications in the carotid artery (CA), using a sonographic examination based on the panoramic radio graphs to confirm or rule out a possible stenosis in the cervical bloodvessels. Thirty-three patients were examined sonographically. Based on the ultrasound investigation in 4 patients, hemodynamic stenoses were detected. Eighteen patients had an atheroma in the ICA, but no hemodynamic stenosis, and 5 patients showed no sign of calcification. Three patients were not examined sonographically at the University Hospital in Basel and were therefore excluded from the evaluation. Three patients did not attend the sonographic examination. The diagnosis of panoramic radiographs should not be restricted to teeth and jaws; especially in patients over 50 years old and in those with health risk factors, greater attention should be paid to the lateral areas. Using the radiographs they already have, dentists can also contribute.