Furcation involvement and tooth loss: A registry-based retrospective cohort study.

AIM: This registry-based retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the impact of furcation status on the risk for molar loss. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Subjects with and without furcation involvement (FI) in 2010/2011 were identified in a nationwide registry in Sweden (age- and gender-matched sample: 381,450 subjects; 2,374,883 molars). Data on dental and periodontal status were extracted for the subsequent 10-year period. Impact of FI (at baseline or detected during follow-up) on molar loss (i.e., tooth extraction) was evaluated through multilevel logistic regression and survival analyses. RESULTS: FI had a significant impact on molar loss. FI degrees 2 and 3 resulted in adjusted risk ratios of 1.67 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.63-1.71) and 3.30 (95% CI 3.18-3.43), respectively. Following the first detection of deep FI (degrees 2-3), estimated survival decreased by 4% at 5 years and 8% at 10 years. In addition to FI, endodontic status and probing depth were relevant risk factors for molar loss. CONCLUSIONS: Furcation status had a clinically relevant impact on the risk for molar loss. Following first detection of deep FI, however, the decline in molar survival was minor.

Efficacy of access flap and pocket elimination procedures in the management of peri-implantitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of access flap and pocket elimination procedures in the surgical treatment of peri-implantitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Systematic electronic searches (Central/MEDLINE/EMBASE) up to March 2022 were conducted to identify prospective clinical studies evaluating surgical therapy (access flap or pocket elimination procedures) of peri-implantitis. Primary outcome measures were reduction of probing depth (PD) and bleeding on probing (BOP). Risk of bias was evaluated according to study design. Meta-analysis and meta-regression were performed. Results were expressed as standardized mean effect with 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: Evidence from studies directly comparing surgical with non-surgical therapy is lacking. Based on pre-post data originating from 13 prospective patient cohorts, pronounced reductions of PD (standardized mean effect: 2.2 mm; 95% CI 1.8-2.7) and BOP% (27.0; 95% CI 19.8-34.2) as well as marginal bone level gain (0.2 mm; 95% CI -0.0 to 0.5) were observed at evaluation time points ranging from 1 to 5 years. Wide prediction intervals suggested a high degree of heterogeneity. Reduction of mean PD increased by 0.7 mm (95% CI 0.5-0.9) for every millimetre in increase of mean PD at baseline. During the follow-up period ranging from 1 to 5 years, disease recurrence occurred frequently and implant loss was not uncommon. CONCLUSIONS: Access flap and pocket elimination surgery are effective procedures in the management of peri-implantitis, although rates of disease recurrence during 5 years were high. Treatment outcomes were affected by baseline conditions.

Prevention and management of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis: A systematic review of outcome measures used in clinical studies in the last 10 years.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate outcome measures, methods of assessment, and analysis in clinical studies on the prevention and management of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis. METHODS: Systematic electronic searches (CENTRAL/MEDLINE/SCOPUS) up to April 2021 were conducted to identify longitudinal clinical studies with ≥10 patients on either the prevention or management of peri-implant diseases. Outcome measures of this analysis were the choice of outcome measures, methods of assessment, and analytical methods. Risk of bias was evaluated according to study design. Data were extracted into evidence tables and outcomes were analysed in a descriptive manner. RESULTS: The analysis of the 159 selected studies revealed that probing pocket depth (PPD) and bleeding/suppuration on probing (BOP) were reported in 89% and 87% of all studies, respectively. Additional outcome measures included plaque scores (reported in 64% of studies), radiographic outcomes (49%), soft tissue dimensions (34%), and composite outcomes (26%). Adverse events (8%) and patient-reported outcomes (6%) were only rarely mentioned. A primary outcome measure was clearly defined only in 36% of studies. Data on PPD, radiographic outcomes, and soft tissue dimensions were primarily reported as mean values and rarely as frequency distributions. For radiographic outcomes and soft tissue dimensions, it was frequently unclear how clustered data were handled. CONCLUSIONS: PPD and BOP were routinely reported in studies on the prevention and management of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis, while composite outcomes, adverse events, and patient-reported outcomes were only infrequently described.

Factors influencing outcomes of surgical therapy of peri-implantitis: A secondary analysis of 1-year results from a randomized clinical study.

AIM: To identify predictors of treatment outcomes following surgical therapy of peri-implantitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing access flap with or without bone replacement graft. Outcomes at 12 months were probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), soft-tissue recession (REC) and marginal bone level (MBL) change. Multilevel regression analyses were used to identify predictors. We also built an explanatory model for residual signs of inflammation. RESULTS: Baseline PPD was the most relevant predictor, showing positive associations with final PPD, REC and MBL gain, and negative association with probability of pocket closure. Smokers presented higher residual PPD. Absence of keratinized mucosa at baseline increased the probability of BOP but was otherwise not indicative of outcomes. Plaque at 6 weeks was detrimental in terms of residual PPD and BOP. Treatment allocation had an effect on REC. Final BOP was explained by residual PPD ≥6 mm and plaque at more than two sites. CONCLUSIONS: Baseline PPD was the most relevant predictor of the outcomes of surgical therapy of peri-implantitis. Pocket closure should be a primary goal of treatment. Bone replacement grafts may be indicated in aesthetically demanding cases to reduce soft-tissue recession. The importance of smoking cessation and patient-performed plaque control is also underlined.

Prevention and management of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis: A systematic review of outcome measures used in clinical studies in the last 10 years.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate outcome measures, methods of assessment, and analysis in clinical studies on the prevention and management of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis. METHODS: Systematic electronic searches (CENTRAL/MEDLINE/SCOPUS) up to April 2021 were conducted to identify longitudinal clinical studies with ≥10 patients on either the prevention or management of peri-implant diseases. Outcome measures of this analysis were the choice of outcome measures, methods of assessment, and analytical methods. Risk of bias was evaluated according to study design. Data were extracted into evidence tables and outcomes were analysed in a descriptive manner. RESULTS: The analysis of the 159 selected studies revealed that probing pocket depth (PPD) and bleeding/suppuration on probing (BOP) were reported in 89% and 87% of all studies, respectively. Additional outcome measures included plaque scores (reported in 64% of studies), radiographic outcomes (49%), soft tissue dimensions (34%), and composite outcomes (26%). Adverse events (8%) and patient-reported outcomes (6%) were only rarely mentioned. A primary outcome measure was clearly defined only in 36% of studies. Data on PPD, radiographic outcomes, and soft tissue dimensions were primarily reported as mean values and rarely as frequency distributions. For radiographic outcomes and soft tissue dimensions, it was frequently unclear how clustered data were handled. CONCLUSIONS: PPD and BOP were routinely reported in studies on the prevention and management of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis, while composite outcomes, adverse events, and patient-reported outcomes were only infrequently described.

Scientific rationale for study: In 2012, recommendations on study design, key outcome measures, and reporting in clinical studies on the prevention and management of peri-implant diseases were presented. We aimed to evaluate how these recommendations were adapted and utilized in relevant studies published during the last decade. Principal findings: Recommendations on outcome measures and reporting in clinical studies on the prevention and management of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis were only partially followed. Practical implications: When evaluating the evidence on the prevention and management of peri-implant diseases, the clinician should be aware of the limitations in terms of choice of outcome measures and data reporting.

Onset of periodontitis - a registry-based cohort study.

OBJECTIVES: The present retrospective registry-based cohort study aimed to identify parameters associated with the onset of periodontitis in young adults. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 345 Swedish subjects were clinically examined at age 19 years (as part of an epidemiological survey) and then followed up to 31 years through the Swedish Quality Registry for Caries and Periodontal diseases (SKaPa). The registry data including periodontal parameters were obtained for the period 2010-2018 (23-31 years). Logistic regression and survival models were used to identify risk factors for periodontitis (PPD ≥6 mm at ≥2 teeth). RESULTS: The incidence of periodontitis during the 12-year observation period was 9.8%. Cigarette smoking (modified pack-years; HR 2.35, 95%CI 1.34-4.13) and increased probing pocket depth (number of sites with PPD 4-5 mm; HR 1.04, 95%CI 1.01-1.07) at 19 years were risk factors for periodontitis in subsequent young adulthood. No statistically significant association was identified for gender, snuff use, plaque and marginal bleeding scores. CONCLUSION: Cigarette smoking and increased probing pocket depth (≥4 mm) in late adolescence (19 years) were relevant risk factors for periodontitis in young adulthood. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Our study identified cigarette smoking and increased probing depth in late adolescence as relevant risk factors of periodontitis in young adulthood. Preventive programs should therefore consider both cigarette smoking and probing pocket depths in their risk assessment.

Systematic review on the association between genetic polymorphisms and dental implant-related biological complications.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the association between specific genetic polymorphisms and dental implant-related biological complications in patients having a follow-up period of at least 12-months post-loading. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A sensitive search strategy was developed to identify implant-related genetic-association studies. This was performed by searching five databases. A three-stage screening (titles, abstract, full text) was carried out in duplicate and independently by two reviewers. Assessment was carried out according to the suggested scale for quality assessment of periodontal genetic-association studies and adapted to genetic analyses of implant-related studies leading to an overall final score 0-20 based on the summation of positive answers. RESULTS: The initial search resulted in 1838 articles. Sixty-seven full-text articles were assessed for eligibility and four studies met the defined inclusion criteria. IL-6 G174C, TNF-α -308, IL-1A-889 and IL-1B+3954 and CD14-159 C/T polymorphisms were evaluated. The quality assessment scores ranged from 6 to 11 positive answers from out of a maximum score of 20. The great heterogeneity among the studies did not allow a meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The published evidence on genetic predisposition and implant biologic complications is limited. The small number of identified studies evaluating the association between genetic polymorphisms and peri-implant disease presented methodological and reporting inadequacies. Thus, the potential link between genetic polymorphisms and biological complications should be further investigated and clarified through well-designed clinical studies on adequately powered and appropriately included study populations.

A comparative study on periodontitis and periodontitis-associated bacteria in Somali and non-Somali children and adolescents living in Trollhättan, Sweden.

The reported prevalence of periodontitis in children and adolescents varies considerably between populations globally. This cross-sectional study compares clinical and microbiological findings on 83 Somali immigrants and 96 non-Somali children aged 10-17 years old living in Trollhättan, Sweden. The clinical examination included registration of bleeding on probing, plaque, and calculus on incisors and first molars. The distance between cemento-enamel junction and bone level was measured on bitewing radiographs. Pooled microbiological samples (1 µL) were taken from the mesial surface of 16, 11, 31, 36, and analyzed by culture and real-time polymerase chain reaction for seven periodontal associated bacterial species. The Somali participants had poorer oral hygiene and more bleeding, plaque, and calculus. Ten of the Somali but none of the non-Somali participants showed periodontal breakdown (radiographical bone loss > 3 mm), corresponding to a prevalence of 12% (95% CI: 5.9, 21.0%). The presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans was almost exclusively associated with Somali participants. Further, the JP2 clone was found in five Somalis (including two periodontitis cases) confirming the association of this clone with African populations. The Somali group showed significantly higher frequencies and numbers of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola, implying a mature and adult type of subgingival microbiota.

Hard and soft tissue changes following alveolar ridge preservation: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: Two focused questions were addressed within this systematic review. Q1) What is the effect of alveolar ridge preservation on linear and volumetric alveolar site dimensions, keratinised measurements, histological characteristics and patient-based outcomes when compared to unassisted socket healing. Q2) What is the size effect of these outcomes in three different types of intervention (guided bone regeneration, socket grafting and socket seal). MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic search (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register LILACS, Web of Science) and hand-search was conducted up to June 2015. Randomised controlled trials (RCT) and controlled clinical trials (CCT); with unassisted socket healing as controls: were eligible in the analysis for Q1. RCTs, CCTs and large prospective case series with or without an unassisted socket healing as control group were eligible in the analysis for Q2. RESULTS: Nine papers (8 RCTs and 1 CCTs) were included in the analysis for Q1 and 37 papers (29 RCTs, 7 CCTs and 1 case series) for Q2. The risk for bias was unclear or high in most of the studies. Q1: the standardised mean difference (SMD) in vertical mid-buccal bone height between ARP and a non-treated site was 0.739 mm (95% CI: 0.332 to 1.147). The SMD when proximal vertical bone height and horizontal bone width was compared was 0.796mm (95% CI: -1.228 to 0.364) and 1.198 mm (95% CI: -0.0374 to 2.433). Examination of ARP sites revealed significant variation in vital and trabecular bone percentages and keratinised tissue width and thickness. Adverse events were routinely reported, with three papers reporting a high level of complications in the test and control groups and two papers reporting greater risks associated with ARP. No studies reported on variables associated with the patient experience in either the test or the control group. Q2: A pooled effect reduction (PER) in mid-buccal alveolar ridge height of -0.467 mm (95% CI: -0.866 to -0.069) was recorded for GBR procedures and -0.157 mm (95% CI: -0.554 to 0.239) for socket grafting. A proximal vertical bone height reduction of -0.356 mm (95% CI: -0.490 to -0.222) was recorded for GBR, with a horizontal dimensional reduction of -1.45 mm (95% CI: -1.892 to -1.008) measured following GBR and -1.613 mm (95% CI: -1.989 to -1.238) for socket grafting procedures. Five papers reported on histological findings after ARP. Two papers indicated an increase in the width of the keratinised tissue following GBR, with two papers reporting a reduction in the thickness of the keratinised tissue following GBR. Histological examination revealed extensive variations in the treatment protocols and biomaterials materials used to evaluate extraction socket healing. GBR studies reported a variation in total bone formation of 47.9 ± 9.1% to 24.67 ± 15.92%. Post-operative complications were reported by 29 papers, with the most common findings soft tissue inflammation and infection. CONCLUSION: ARP results in a significant reduction in the vertical bone dimensional change following tooth extraction when compared to unassisted socket healing. The reduction in horizontal alveolar bone dimensional change was found to be variable. No evidence was identified to clearly indicate the superior impact of a type of ARP intervention (GBR, socket filler and socket seal) on bone dimensional preservation, bone formation, keratinised tissue dimensions and patient complications.

What is the effect of soft tissue thickness on crestal bone loss around dental implants? A systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this systematic review was to determine whether soft tissue biotype at implant placement has an influence on crestal bone loss (CBL) at 1 year after implant loading. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Following electronic search in three databases (MEDLINE via OVID, EMBASE and The Cochrane Database) and hand search up to April 2015, two reviewers screened independently and in duplicate the references to identify randomized controlled trials, controlled clinical trials (CCTs) and prospective case series eligible for systematic review and meta-analysis. Cochrane Collaboration's tool was used for assessing risk of bias. RESULTS: From 2944 citations, six studies (6 CCTs) met the inclusion criteria. Four of six individual studies that compared thin vs. thick biotype showed significantly higher CBL in thin biotype. Meta-analysis could only be performed with two studies and the differences did not reach significant level. None of the included studies was of low risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS: At present, there is insufficient evidence to answer the question on the differences in clinical outcome in terms of CBL between implants placed in sites with initial soft tissue thickness <2 mm and those with ≥2 mm. Further, well-designed controlled clinical studies are needed to analyze the effect of soft tissue thickness on the clinical outcomes of dental implants.

Does ridge preservation following tooth extraction improve implant treatment outcomes: a systematic review: Group 4: Therapeutic concepts & methods.

OBJECTIVE: (1) Primary focused question (Q1): to evaluate the effect of alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) on implant outcomes (implant placement feasibility, need for further augmentation, survival/success rates, marginal bone loss) compared with unassisted socket healing (USH) and (2) secondary focused question (Q2): to estimate the size effects (SE) of these outcomes in three different interventions (GBR, socket filler, socket seal). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Electronic (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register LILACS; Web of Science) and hand search was conducted up to July 2014. Randomised controlled trials (RCT), controlled clinical trials (CCT) and prospective cohort studies with USH as controls were eligible in the analysis for Q1. RCTs, CCTs and prospective case series, with or without USH as control, were eligible for Q2. RESULTS: Ten (8 RCTs, 2 CCTs) and 30 studies (21 RCTs, 7 CCTs, 2 case series) were included in the analysis for Q1 and Q2, respectively. The risk for bias was unclear or high in most of them. Q1: Implant placement was feasible in ARP-treated and USH sites. These implants presented similar survival/success rates and marginal bone levels. The need for further augmentation decreased when ARP was performed (Relative risk: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.07-0.3). Q2: The SE for implant placement feasibility was 98.5% (95% CI: 96.4-99.6) in GBR and 96.2 (95% CI: 93.1-98.2) in socket filler group. The SE for need for further augmentation was 11.9 (95% CI: 5.6-19.9) for GBR and 13.7% (95% CI: 5.0-25.6) for socket filler groups. GBR and socket filler presented similar SE for survival/success rates and average marginal bone loss. Limited data were available for implant-related outcomes in sites treated with socket seal. CONCLUSIONS: There is limited evidence to support the clinical benefit of ARP over USH in improving implant-related outcomes despite a decrease in the need for further ridge augmentation during implant placement. Similar implant placement feasibility, survival/success rates and marginal bone loss should be anticipated following ARP or USH. Currently, it is not clear which type of ARP intervention has a superior impact on implant outcomes.

Retrospective long-term evaluation of dental implants in totally and partially edentulous patients: part II: periimplant disease.

PURPOSE: This retrospective longitudinal study aims to assess long-term outcomes of osseointegrated dental implants placed in partially and totally edentulous patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients who were willing to sign the informed consent and attend a check-up were included. The prevalence of periimplant disease was calculated. Cases were further divided into mucositis or periimplantitis. Uni- and multi-variate statistical analyses were conducted to determine the influence of various factors. RESULTS: A total of 105 patients who had received 342 implants were included. Mean follow-up was 13.19 ± 3.70 years. The prevalence of periimplant disease was 14.2% of the analyzed implants and 21% of patients. An additional 4.8% of patients reported a previous presence of periimplant disease without current disease. The prevalence of mucositis and periimplantitis was 11.2% and 1.7%, respectively, of analyzed implants. Factors with possible influence on the presence of periimplant disease were gender, alcohol consumption, chemotherapy and/or head and neck radiotherapy, history of periodontal disease, and years of function. CONCLUSION: In our sample, periimplant disease was not infrequent, being present in 1 of 5 patients at the final check-up.

Retrospective long-term evaluation of dental implants in totally and partially edentulous patients. Part I: survival and marginal bone loss.

PURPOSE: This retrospective longitudinal study aims to assess long-term outcomes of osseointegrated dental implants in partially and totally edentulous patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients willing to sign the informed consent and attend a check-up were included. Implant failures were recorded, and marginal bone level and bone loss were evaluated on intraoral radiographs. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were conducted to determine the influence of various factors. Complications and patient satisfaction were recorded. RESULTS: One hundred five patients who received 342 implants were included. Mean follow-up was 13.19 ± 3.70 years. 9.4% of implants were lost, and 78.1% of patients retained all implants placed. Mean marginal bone loss was 0.77 ± 1.10 mm, being greater than 3 mm in 2.5% of analyzed implants. Factors with possible influence on implant survival and marginal bone loss were smoking, osteopenia or osteoporosis, check-up frequency, implant surface, length and position, and type of prosthesis. 24.8% of patients remained free of complications. Patient satisfaction was high. CONCLUSIONS: In our sample, which included both totally and partially edentulous patients, long-term implant survival was more than 90% with a mean marginal bone loss of 0.77 mm and an implant survival at patient level of 78%; patient satisfaction was high despite the fact that complications were frequent.

Periodontitis in patients with diabetes and its association with diabetes-related complications. A register-based cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between type 1 diabetes (T1D)/type 2 diabetes (T2D) and periodontitis and assess the influence of periodontitis on diabetes-related complications. DESIGN: Observational study; longitudinal analysis of register data. SETTING: Swedish primary care centres, hospitals and dental clinics reporting to nationwide healthcare registers (2010-2020). PARTICIPANTS: 28 801 individuals with T1D (13 022 women; mean age 42 years) and 57 839 individuals without diabetes (non-T1D; 26 271 women; mean age 43 years). 251 645 individuals with T2D (110 627 women; mean age 61 years) and 539 805 individuals without diabetes (non-T2D; 235 533 women; mean age 60 years). Diabetes and non-diabetes groups were matched for age, gender and county of residence. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Prevalent periodontitis, diabetes-related complications (retinopathy, albuminuria, stroke and ischaemic heart disease) and mortality. RESULTS: Periodontitis was more common among T2D (22%) than non-T2D (17%). Differences were larger in younger age groups (adjusted RR at age 30-39 years 1.92; 95% CI 1.81 to 2.03) and exacerbated by poor glycaemic control. Periodontitis prevalence was 13% in T1D and 11% in non-T1D; only the subgroup with poor glycaemic control was at higher risk for periodontitis. Periodontitis was associated with a higher incidence of retinopathy (T1D: HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.14; T2D: HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.10) and albuminuria (T1D: HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.23; T2D: HR 1.09, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.11). Periodontitis was not associated with a higher risk for stroke, cardiovascular disease or higher mortality in T1D/T2D. CONCLUSIONS: The association between T2D and periodontitis was strong and exacerbated by poor glycaemic control. For T1D, the association to periodontitis was limited to subgroups with poor glycaemic control. Periodontitis contributed to an increased risk for retinopathy and albuminuria in T1D and T2D.

Modified free gingival graft technique for treatment of gingival recession defects at mandibular incisors: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and patient-reported outcomes following surgical root coverage at RT1 gingival recession defects at mandibular incisors, using either a conventional free gingival graft (FGG) or a modified FGG (ModFGG). METHODS: Total of 30 patients with RT1 gingival recessions at mandibular incisors were enrolled and randomly allocated to either a control (FGG) or test group (ModFGG). Evaluations of clinical changes (recession depth, height of keratinized tissue) and patient satisfaction were performed over a follow-up period of 12 months. Post-surgical changes of keratinized tissue height (shrinkage) were assessed from 1 month and onward. RESULTS: ModFGG resulted in more pronounced root coverage at 1 year compared to FGG (91.8% vs. 60.7%, p < 0.001). Height of keratinized tissue was improved by 4.2 and 2.2 mm (p < 0.001), respectively, with significantly less shrinkage in ModFGG. Post-surgical morbidity was significantly lower for ModFGG at 2 weeks and patient satisfaction was significantly higher 12 months after treatment (9.1 vs. 5.4; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: ModFGG represents a valid approach for the management of RT1 recession defects at mandibular incisors. The technique is superior to traditional FGG in terms of root coverage, the gain of keratinized tissue height, and patient satisfaction.

Comparative study of two local anesthetics in the surgical extraction of mandibular third molars: bupivacaine and articaine.

OBJECTIVE: The third molar extraction is one of the most common surgical procedures in oral surgery and is usually accompanied by postoperative discomfort. It has been suggested that the longer duration of action of bupivacaine associated with the residual analgesia and the gradual onset of pain, could decrease the need for analgesics during the postoperative period. This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of bupivacaine and articaine as local anesthetics for the extraction of mandibular third molars and to check whether bupivacaine produced residual analgesia. STUDY DESIGN: We compared bupivacaine 0.5% and articaine 4% with an epinephrine concentration of 1:200 000 in a crossover design model of extraction of bilaterally symmetrical mandibular third molars. RESULTS: Regarding efficacy, patients experienced less postoperative pain at 6 and 12 hours and shorter duration of soft tissue anesthesia with articaine. With respect to safety, no differences were found between the anesthetics compared, showing a similar local and systemic toxicity. With regard to the preference of patients, it was higher for articaine, the main reasons being the greater postoperative pain and swelling with bupivacaine. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that articaine seems to be a more appropriate anesthetic for the extraction of mandibular third molars due to the shorter duration of the anesthetic effect in the soft tissues, lower pain reported by patients during the immediate postoperative period and the personal preference of patients for this drug.

Analysis of new diagnostic methods in suspicious lesions of the oral mucosa.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyse publications related to examination techniques that might improve the visualisation of suspicious lesions of the oral mucosa (ViziLite system and VELscope system) or that might facilitate the cytological identification of suspicious lesions (OralCDx). METHODS: A literature search was performed, using the PubMed database and the key words "brush biopsy", "OralCDx", "ViziLite" and "Velscope", limiting the search to papers in English or Spanish published from 2002 to 2008. RESULTS: According to the results of studies identified, the ViziLite system has a sensitivity of 100% and specificity ranging from 0-14.2%, the VELscope system has a sensitivity of 98-100% and specificity of 94-100% and the Oral CDx system has a sensitivity of 71.4-100% and specificity of 32-100%. CONCLUSION: Clinical examination and histopathological confirmation with biopsy remain the gold standard for the detection of oral cancer. More randomised controlled studies are needed to confirm the positive cost-benefit relationship and the true usefulness of these "new diagnostic methods" in oral mucosal pathology.

Endodontic retreatment versus dental implants of teeth with an uncertain endodontic prognosis: 3-year results from a randomised controlled trial.

PURPOSE: To ascertain whether in the presence of a previously endodontically treated tooth with periapical pathology and/or symptoms and an uncertain prognosis, it is better to endodontically retreat it or to replace the tooth with a single-implant-supported crown. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty patients requiring the treatment of a previously endodontically treated tooth, with periapical pathology and/or symptoms of endodontic origin and an uncertain prognosis, as judged by the recruiting investigator, were randomly allocated to endodontic retreatment (Endo group, 10 patients) or tooth extraction and replacement with an implant-supported crown (Implant group, 10 patients) according to a parallel-group design at a single centre. Patients were followed to 3 years after completion of the treatment. Outcome measures were: failure of the procedure, complications, marginal bone level changes at both teeth and implants, endodontic radiographic success (teeth only), number of patients' visits and days to complete the treatment, patients' chair time, costs, aesthetics assessed using the pink aesthetic score (PES) for the soft tissues and the white aesthetic score (WES) for the tooth/crown recorded by independent assessors. RESULTS: No patient dropped out. One endodontically retreated tooth fractured and another had a crown loosening. There were no statistically significant differences for treatment failure or complications (difference in proportions = 0.10; 95% CI: -0.09 to 0.29; P (Fisher exact test) = 1.000). The mean marginal bone levels at endodontic retreatment/implant insertion were 2.10 ± 0.66 mm for the Endo group and 0.05 ± 0.15 mm for the Implant group. Three years after completion of the treatment, teeth lost on average 0.23 ± 0.82 mm and implants 0.62 ± 0.68 mm, the difference not being statistically significant (mean difference = -0.39 mm; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.12 to 0.33; P (t test) = 0.267). Three years after completion of the endodontic retreatment, of the four teeth that originally had a periapical radiolucency, one was lost, two showed complete healing, and one showed radiographic improvement. There were no statistically significant differences for the number of patients' visits (Endo = 6.67 ± 0.71; Implant = 6.10 ± 0.74; mean difference = 0.57; 95% CI: -0.14 to 1.27; P (t test) = 0.106). It took significantly more days to complete the implant rehabilitation (Endo = 61 ± 12.97; Implant = 191.40 ± 75.04; mean difference = -130.40; 95% CI: -184.45 to -76.35; P (t test) < 0.001) but less patients' chair time (Endo = 629.44 ± 43.62 min; Implant = 326 ± 196.99 min; mean difference = 303.44; 95% CI: 160.87 to 446.02; P (t test) = 0.001). Implant treatment was significantly more expensive (Endo = €1,588.89 ± 300.81; Implant = €2,095 ± 158.90; mean difference = €-506.11; 95% CI: -735.41 to -276.82; P (t test) < 0.001). Three years after treatment completion, mean PES were 11.11 ± 1.97 and 6.50 ± 2.46 and mean WES were 7.78 ± 1.30 and 6.80 ± 2.39 in the Endo group and Implant group, respectively. Soft tissues aesthetics (PES) were significantly better at endodontically retreated teeth (mean difference 4.61; 95% CI: 2.44 to 6.78; P (t test) < 0.001) whereas no significant differences were observed for tooth aesthetics (WES) (mean difference 0.98; 95% CI: -0.89 to 2.85; P (t test) = 0.281) between treatments. CONCLUSIONS: The present preliminary results suggest that both endodontic retreatment and replacement of previously endodontically treated teeth with persisting pathology and a dubious endodontic prognosis provided similar short-term success rates. Aesthetics of the soft tissues and time needed to complete treatment were in favour of endodontic retreatment whereas implant rehabilitation required half of the chair time than endodontic retreatment, but was significantly more expensive. Much larger patient populations and longer follow-ups are needed to fully answer this question; however, in this scenario the less invasive endodontic retreatment could be the first therapeutic option to be considered.

Immediate loading of occluding definitive partial fixed prostheses vs non-occluding provisional restorations - 3-year post-loading results from a pragmatic multicentre randomised controlled trial.

PURPOSE: To compare the clinical outcome of dental implants restored with definitive occluding partial fixed prostheses within 1 week after implant placement with immediate non-occluding provisional restorations to be replaced by definitive prostheses after 4 months. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty partially edentulous patients treated with one to three dental implants, at least 8.5 mm long and 4.0 mm wide, inserted with a torque of at least 35 Ncm, were randomised in two groups of 20 patients each, to be immediately loaded with partial fixed prostheses. Patients in one group received one definitive screw-retained, metal-ceramic prosthesis in occlusion within 1 week after placement. Patients in the other group received one non-occluding provisional acrylic reinforced prosthesis within 24 h of implant placement. Provisional prostheses were replaced by definitive ones after 4 months. The follow-up for all patients was 3 years post-loading. Outcome measures were prosthesis and implant failures, any complications, peri-implant marginal bone level changes, aesthetic evaluation by a dental practitioner, patient satisfaction, chair time and number of visits at the dental office from implant placement to delivery of definitive restorations. RESULTS: Three patients dropped out, one from the non-occlusal group and two from the occlusal group. Two immediately occlusally loaded implants with their related definitive prostheses failed early (difference in proportions = 0.10; 95% CI = -0.03 to 0.23; P = 0.488). Five patients from the occlusally loaded group were affected by six complications vs three patients (three complications) in the non-occlusally loaded group. The difference in proportions was not statistically significant (difference in proportions = 0.08; 95% CI = -0.17 to 0.34; P = 0.697). Three years after loading, patients subjected to occlusal loading lost an average of 1.13 mm of peri-implant bone vs 1.03 mm of patients restored with non-occluding definitive partial fixed prostheses. There were no statistically significant differences for marginal bone level changes between the two groups (mean difference = 0.10 mm; 95% CI -0.62 to 0.82; P = 0.779). No significant were the differences for pink aesthetic scores (7.09 vs 6.90; P = 0.873); for aesthetics evaluated by patients (Mann-Whitney U test P = 0.799) and function satisfaction (Mann-Whitney U test P = 0.578). Significantly less chair time (mean difference -38.00; 95% CI -58.96 to -17.04; P = 0.001) and number of visits (mean difference -2.15; 95% CI -2.77 to -1.53; P < 0.001) were required for the immediate definitive prosthesis group. CONCLUSIONS: This study did not provide a conclusive answer, but suggests that immediate occlusal loading by manufacturing immediate definitive partial fixed prostheses decreases chair time and number of visits.

4 mm long vs longer implants in augmented bone in posterior atrophic jaws: 1-year post-loading results from a multicentre randomised controlled trial.

PURPOSE: To evaluate whether 4.0 mm short dental implants could be an alternative to augmentation with xenographs in the maxilla and placement of at least 10.0 mm long implants in posterior atrophic jaws. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A group of 40 patients with atrophic posterior (premolar and molar areas) mandibles with 5.0 mm to 6.0 mm bone height above the mandibular canal and 40 patients with atrophic maxillas having 4.0 mm to 5.0 mm below the maxillary sinus, were randomised according to a parallel group design to receive between one and three 4.0 mm long implants or one to three implants of at least 10.0 mm long in augmented bone, at two centres. All implants had a diameter of 4.0 mm or 4.5 mm. Mandibles were vertically augmented with inter-positional equine bone blocks and resorbable barriers. Implants were placed 4 months after the inter-positional grafting. Maxillary sinuses were augmented with particulated porcine bone via a lateral window covered with resorbable barriers, and implants were placed simultaneously. Implants were not submerged and were loaded after 4 months with provisional screw-retained reinforced acrylic restorations replaced after another 4 months by definitive screw-retained metal-composite prostheses. Patients were followed up to 1 year post-loading. Outcome measures were: prosthesis and implant failures, any complication, and peri-implant marginal bone level changes. RESULTS: Three patients dropped out; one from the maxillary augmented group, one from the mandibular augmented group, and one from the maxillary short implant group. In six augmented mandibles (30%) it was not possible to place implants of at least 10.0 mm, so shorter implants were placed instead. In mandibles, one implant from the augmented group failed vs two 4.0 mm implants in two patients from the short implant group. In maxillae, three short implants failed in two patients vs seven long implants in four patients (two long implants and one short implant dropped into the maxillary sinus). Two prostheses on short implants (one mandibular and one maxillary) were placed at a later stage because of implant failures, vs six prostheses (one mandibular and five maxillary) at augmented sites (one mandibular prosthesis not delivered, three maxillary prostheses delivered with delays, one not delivered, and one failed) at augmented sites. In particular, three patients in the augmented group (one mandible and two maxillae) were not wearing a prosthesis. There were no statistically significant differences in implant failures (P (chi-square test) = 0.693; difference in proportion = 0.03; CI 95% -0.11 to 0.17) or prostheses failures (P (chi-square test) = 0.126; difference in proportion = 0.10; CI 95% -0.03 to 0.24). At mandibular sites, nine augmented patients were affected by complications vs two patients treated with short implants (P (chi-square test) = 0.01; difference in proportion = 0.37; CI 95% 0.11 to 0.63), the difference being statistically significant. No significant differences were found for maxillae: nine sinus-lifted patients vs four short implant patients were affected by complications (P (chi-square test) = 0.091; difference in proportion = 0.25; CI 95% -0.03 to 0.53). At 1-year post-loading, average peri-implant bone loss was 0.51 mm at 4 mm long mandibular implants, 0.77 mm at 10 mm or longer mandibular implants, 0.63 mm at short maxillary implants and 0.72 mm at long maxillary implants. The difference was statistically significant in mandibles (mean difference -0.26 mm, 95% CI -0.39 to -0.13, P (ANCOVA) < 0.001), but not in maxillae (mean difference -0.09 mm, 95% CI -0.24 to 0.05, P (ANCOVA) = 0.196). CONCLUSIONS: One year after loading 4.0 mm long implants achieved similar results, if not better, than longer implants in augmented jaws, but were affected by fewer complications. Short implants might be a preferable choice over bone augmentation, especially in mandibles, since the treatment is less invasive, faster, cheaper, and associated with less morbidity. However, 5 to 10 years post-loading data are necessary before making reliable recommendations.