Efficacy of surgical periodontal treatment with and without photobiomodulation in the treatment of severe periodontitis: An evaluation of periodontal, microbiological, and cytokine levels.

AIM: To compare the efficacy of surgical periodontal treatment (SPT) alone and PDT-assisted surgery in participants with severe periodontitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The present clinical trial was completed by 64 participants (n = 32 each). The selection was made according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients in group A were treated with SPT only and participants in group B were treated with SPT adjunct to PDT. Microbiological assessment of P.Gingivalis; T. Forsythia and T.Denticola were evaluated using cultural analysis and periodontal parameters plaque score (PSc), bleeding on probing (BoP) periodontal depth (PD), and clinical attachment loss (CAL) at baseline and post-treatment at 6 months and 12 months were performed. The gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was collected for the estimation of IL-1ß and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). For intra-group comparison and post hoc correction, Student's t-test along with Bonferroni was used. For the difference between follow-ups, an analysis of variance (ANOVA) multiple rank tests were incorporated. RESULTS: The mean age of participants in the SPT group was 55.25±4.6yrs. Whereas, participants treated with PDT adjunct to SPT were 54.88±3.6yrs. Periodontal parameters (BoP, PD, PSc, CAL) showed no significant difference at baseline. At 6 months and 12 months follow-up, a significant difference in all parameters (BoP, PD, PSc, and CAL) was found in participants treated with SPT alone and PDT adjunct to SPT (p<0.05). Inflammatory biomarkers at 6-month and 12-month follow-ups, a statistically significant difference in the level of biomarkers (IL-1ß and TNF-α) were observed in both groups from baseline (p<0.05). However, at baseline, no significant difference was noted in both groups (p> 0.05). The microbiological assessment showed a significant drop in the bacterial count in participants treated with both regimes i.e., SPT alone and PDT adjunct to SPT. CONCLUSION: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) adjunct to surgical periodontal treatment (SPT) in severe periodontitis improves microbiological and periodontal parameters and lowers the level of proinflammatory cytokines.

Comparison of the postoperative anti-inflammatory efficacy of chlorhexidine, saline rinses and herbal mouthwashes after mechanical debridement in patients with peri-implant mucositis: A randomized controlled trial.

AIM: The null hypothesis is that there is no difference in the post-operative anti-inflammatory efficacy of chlorhexidine (CHX), 2% saline rinses (SR) and a herbal mouthwash (MW) after non-surgical mechanical debridement (MD) for treatment of peri-implant mucositis (PiM). The aim was to compare the post-operative anti-inflammatory efficacy of CHX, 2% SR and a herbal oral rinse after non-surgical MD of PiM. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present randomized controlled trial had a single-blinded parallel arm design. Patients diagnosed with PiM were enrolled. Demographic information was recorded. All patients underwent MD and were randomly divided into 4 groups: CHX-group: 0.12% non-alcoholic CHX; Sodium chloride (NaCl) group: 2% NaCl rinses; Herbal MW group: Herbal-based MW and H2 O group: distilled water with peppermint flavour. After MD, all the participants were advised to rinse twice daily (every 12 hrs) for 2 weeks with their respective MWs. In all groups, peri-implant modified plaque index (mPI), modified gingival index (mGI) and probing depth (PD) were measured at baseline and at 12 weeks of follow-up. Sample size was estimated using data from a pilot investigation; and group-comparisons were performed. Statistical significance was confirmed when P-values were below 0.01. RESULTS: Sixty individuals (15 patients/group) were included. At baseline, mPI, mGI and PD were comparable in all groups. At baseline, there was no significant difference in peri-implant mPI, mGI and PD in all groups. At 12-weeks' follow-up, there was a statistically significant reduction in peri-implant mPI (p < 0.01), mGI (p < 0.01) and PD (p < 0.01) in CHX, NaCl and herbal MW groups compared with H2 O group. There was no significant relation between implant location, duration for which, implants were functional, gender and peri-implant clinical parameters in all groups. CONCLUSION: After non-surgical MD, post-operative use of CHX and herbal and NaCl MWs is useful for the management of PiM in the short-term.

Clinical, Radiographic, and Inflammatory Peri-Implant Parameters around Narrow Diameter Implant Crowns among Prediabetic and Non-Diabetic Subjects.

Background and Objectives: To compare the clinical, radiographic, and inflammatory peri-implant parameters around narrow diameter implants (NDI) supported single and splinted crowns in non-diabetics and prediabetes. Materials and Methods: The clinical and radiographic parameters and the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in the peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) of narrow diameter single (NDISCs) and splinted (NDISPs) crown implants were assessed both in non-diabetics and participants with prediabetes. The glycemic state of the patient was assessed using glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. The peri-implant soft tissue indices (Plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BoP), probing depth (PD)) and marginal bone loss were recorded and compared between the groups. Success of the prosthesis was assessed by the frequency of technical complications and patient satisfaction. Inter-group comparison was performed using ANOVA (one-way analysis of variance) while the normal distribution of dependent variables was calculated using Shapiro-Wilk. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: Sixty participants (30 non-diabetics and 30 with prediabetes) with a total of 178 (118 NDISCs and 60 NDISPs) platform-switched NDIs were a part of the study. Of the 118 NDISCs, 56 were placed in the non-diabetic individuals and 62 were placed in the prediabetes group whereas 30 NDISPs each were placed in both the study groups. The clinical parameters of PI, BoP and PD in the single crown and splinted crown groups showed comparable results. However, a statistically significant difference (p-value of less than 0.05) in PI, BoP and PD and in the values of IL-6 and TNF-α was found when a comparison was made between the non-diabetes and prediabetes group. A total of 91% of the patients were satisfied with the esthetics of the implants while 79% of the patients showed satisfaction with function. Conclusions: All the clinical and radiographic parameters were statistically similar in both single and splinted types of narrow diameter implants. However, the bone loss, probing depth, plaque index, and levels of inflammatory markers were statistically higher in prediabetes as compared to non-diabetes implying that a slight hyperglycemic state impacts peri-implant health.

Comparison of Whole Salivary Cortisol and Interleukin 1-Beta Levels in Light Cigarette-Smokers and Users of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems before and after Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy.

There are no studies that have compared whole salivary cortisol (CL) and interleukin 1-beta (IL-1ß) levels in cigarette-smokers (CS) and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS)-users before and after non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT). The aim was to compare whole salivary CL and IL-1ß levels in light CS and ENDS users before and after non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT). Self-reported current CS, ENDS users, and non-smokers were included. A questionnaire was used to collect demographic data. All patients underwent NSPT. Periodontal parameters (probing depth (PD], gingival index (GI], clinical attachment loss (AL], plaque index (PI], and marginal bone loss (MBL]) and whole salivary CL and IL-1ß were measured at baseline. At 3-months of follow-up, clinical parameters and whole salivary CL and IL-1ß were re-assessed. p-values < 1% were arbitrated as statistically significant. Fifty-four individuals (18 CS, 18 ENDS users, and 18 non-smokers) were included. Clinical AL, MT, PD, PI, and MBL were similar in all groups at baseline. At 12-weeks of follow-up, PI (p < 0.01) and PD (p < 0.01) were high in CS and ENDS-users than non-smokers. Among non-smokers, there was a statistically significant correlation between whole salivary cortisol and IL-1ß levels at 12-weeks' follow-up (p < 0.001). There was no difference in whole salivary cortisol and IL-1ß levels in CS and ENDS users at baseline and at 12-weeks follow-up. At 12-weeks of follow-up, there was a significant reduction in IL-1ß (p < 0.01) and CL (p < 0.01) than baseline. In light CS and ENDS users without periodontal disease, clinical periodontal parameters and whole-salivary CL and Il-1ß levels remain unchanged after NSPT.

Peri-implant clinicoradiographic status among betel-quid chewers and controls.

The aim of the present case-control observational study was to evaluate the peri-implant clinicoradiographic status among betel-quid chewers and controls. Self-reported betel-quid chewers and controls were included. Participants were categorized into 3 groups: Group-1: Individuals chewing betel-quid with tobacco; Group-2: Individuals chewing betel-quid without tobacco; and Group-3: Controls (individuals not using tobacco in any form). Demographic data was collected using a questionnaire. Periodontal and peri-implant clinicoradiologic parameters (plaque and gingival indices [PI and GI], probing depth [PD] and crestal bone loss/marginal bone loss [CBL/MBL]) were assessed. Clinical attachment loss (AL) around teeth was also assessed. Group comparisons were done using the one-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni Post-hoc adjustment tests. Correlation of periodontal and peri-implant inflammatory parameters with the duration of betel-quid chewing habit and duration of placement in the mouth were assessed using logistic regression analysis. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Thirty, 30 and 30 patients were included in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Full-mouth PI (P<0.01), GI (P<0.01), clinical AL (P<0.01), PD (P<0.01) and mesial and distal MBL (P<0.01) were higher in groups 1 and 2 than Group-3. Peri-implant mPI (P<0.01), mGI (P<0.01), PD (P<0.01) and MBL/CBL (P<0.01) were significantly higher in groups 1 and 2 than Group-3 with no significant difference in groups 1 and 2. Betel-quid chewing habit either with or without tobacco is a risk-factor of peri-implant soft-tissue inflammation and CBL.

Association between the baseline gene expression profile in periapical granuloma and periapical wound healing after surgical endodontic treatment.

In this study, we have investigated the association between the baseline gene expression profile in periapical granuloma and periapical wound healing after surgical endodontic treatment. Twenty-seven patients aged between 15 and 57 years underwent periapical surgery. The retrieved periapical tissue sample was used for mRNA expression analysis of COL1A1, VTN, ITGA5, IL-4, TNF, ANGPT, VEGFA, and CTGF. All patients were recalled after 6 and 12 months for periapical healing evaluation. Healing was then correlated with baseline gene expression. Healing was observed in 15 patients at the end of 6 months, which increased to 21 patients after 12 months. Six patients showed no healing even after 12 months. Analysis of baseline expression levels of the tested genes with healing status showed the mean relative expression of VTN, VEGFA, ANGPT, TNF, and CTGF to be significantly different (p < 0.05) between the healing group (6 and 12 months) (72.99%) and the non-healing (94.42%) group. Periapical Index scores 3-5 exhibited a positive correlation with ITGA-5 expression. Overexpression of ANGPT and a strong positive correlation between ITGA5 and PAI scores in the non-healing group of patients may suggest these genes to be a potential prognostic biomarker for periapical wound non-healing after surgical endodontic treatment.

Peri-implant clinicoradiographic status among betel-quid chewers and controls

Abstract The aim of the present case-control observational study was to evaluate the peri-implant clinicoradiographic status among betel-quid chewers and controls. Self-reported betel-quid chewers and controls were included. Participants were categorized into 3 groups: Group-1: Individuals chewing betel-quid with tobacco; Group-2: Individuals chewing betel-quid without tobacco; and Group-3: Controls (individuals not using tobacco in any form). Demographic data was collected using a questionnaire. Periodontal and peri-implant clinicoradiologic parameters (plaque and gingival indices [PI and GI], probing depth [PD] and crestal bone loss/marginal bone loss [CBL/MBL]) were assessed. Clinical attachment loss (AL) around teeth was also assessed. Group comparisons were done using the one-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni Post-hoc adjustment tests. Correlation of periodontal and peri-implant inflammatory parameters with the duration of betel-quid chewing habit and duration of placement in the mouth were assessed using logistic regression analysis. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Thirty, 30 and 30 patients were included in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Full-mouth PI (P<0.01), GI (P<0.01), clinical AL (P<0.01), PD (P<0.01) and mesial and distal MBL (P<0.01) were higher in groups 1 and 2 than Group-3. Peri-implant mPI (P<0.01), mGI (P<0.01), PD (P<0.01) and MBL/CBL (P<0.01) were significantly higher in groups 1 and 2 than Group-3 with no significant difference in groups 1 and 2. Betel-quid chewing habit either with or without tobacco is a risk-factor of peri-implant soft-tissue inflammation and CBL.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo observacional de casos-controles foi avaliar o estado clínico-radiográfico periimplantar dos usuários de bétele. Foram incluídos usuários que relataram utlizar a substância bétele como tabaco de mascar. Os participantes foram categorizados em 3 grupos: Grupo-1: Indivíduos que mascam bétele com tabaco; Grupo-2: Indivíduos que mascam bétele sem tabaco; e Grupo-3: Controle (indivíduos que não usam tabaco sob qualquer forma). Os dados demográficos foram recolhidos utilizando um questionário. Foram avaliados parâmetros clínico-radiográfico e periimplantares (índices placa e gengivais [IP e IG], profundidade de sondagem [PS] e perda de crista óssea/ perda óssea marginal [PCO/POM]). Também foi avaliada a perda inserção clínica (IC) em torno dos dentes. As comparações de grupo foram feitas utilizando a análise de variância unidireccional e os testes de ajustamento post-hoc de Bonferroni. A correlação dos parâmetros inflamatórios periodontais e periimplantares com a duração do hábito de mastigação da bétele e duração da colocação na boca foi avaliada utilizando a análise de regressão logística. P<0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. Foram utilizados 30 pacientes em cada grupo. O IP de boca inteira (P<0,01), IG (P<0,01), IC clínica (P<0,01), PS (P<0,01) e POM mesial e distal (P<0,01) foram mais elevados nos grupos 1 e 2 do que no grupo 3. O mPI peri-implantar (P<0,01), '(P<0,01), PD (P<0,01) e POM/PCO (P<0,01) foram significativamente mais elevados nos grupos 1 e 2 do que no grupo 3, sem diferença significativa nos grupos 1 e 2. O hábito de mastigar a substância bétele com ou sem tabaco é um fator de risco de inflamação dos tecidos moles periimplantares e PCO.

Whole Salivary Cotinine Levels and Interleukin 1-ß Levels among Young Adults Involuntarily Exposed to Vapor from Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems.

PURPOSE: To the assess whole salivary cotinine and interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß) levels among individuals involuntarily exposed to vapor from electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) (test group) and unexposed individuals (control group). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Demographic data and information related to ENDS vapor exposure were collected using a questionnaire. Unstimulated whole saliva samples were collected, unstimulated whole-saliva flow rate (UWSFR) was calculated, and cotinine and IL-1ß levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Sample-size estimation and statistical analysis were performed. Regression analysis was performed to determine the correlation between whole salivary cotinine and IL-1ß levels. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Forty-eight individuals (24 and 24 in test and control groups, respectively) were included. Mean ages of individuals in the test and control groups were comparable. In the test group, the mean duration for which the individuals inhaled vapor from ENDS in each session was 22.3 ± 9.5 min and they were exposed to ENDS vapor 12.2 ± 2.4 times daily. There was no difference in the UWSFR between patients in the test (0.21 ± 0.02 ml/min) and control (0.22 ± 0.04 ml/min) groups. Whole salivary cotinine (p < 0.001) and IL-1ß (p < 0.001) levels were significantly higher in the test than control group. CONCLUSION: Young adults involuntarily exposed to vapor from ENDS express elevated whole salivary cotinine and IL-1ß levels. Long-term exposure to ENDS vapor may potentially predispose vulnerable populations to oral and systemic inflammatory diseases.

Modified photoactivated methylene blue-incorporated quartz particles for dentin disinfection: A scanning electron microscope and spectroscopic analysis.

The aim of this study was to synthesize methylene blue-incorporated quartz particles (MB@QP) and to investigate its anti-bactericidal properties. Methylene blue was incorporated inside QP and characterized for morphology and chemical structure using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Specimens were randomly divided into experimental and control groups (n = 9/groups). The dentin specimen infected with Enterococcus faecalis was treated using different treatment modalities: Control groups: treatment with 5.25% of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) for 60 s; MB: treatment with 1 ml MB solution and incubated for 60 s; MB-PDT (photodynamic therapy): treatment with 1 ml MB solution followed by irradiation using diode laser for 60 s; MB-QP-PDT: specimens treated with MB@QP and irradiated by the diode laser for 60s, and Er,Cr:YSGG laser alone. MB@PDT therapy showed the highest efficacy in reducing the survival rate of E. faecalis (0.49%) in comparison to control NaOCl (0.78%) and Er,Cr:YSGG laser treatment (2.17%). Encapsulating MB into QP followed by the PDT significantly improved the bactericidal capacity and significantly reduced the bacterial survival rate to 0.11% (p < .05) compared to other groups. The combination of MB incorporated into QP and PDT could be an alternative treatment modality to conventional disinfection method for eliminating bacteria from the tooth dentin. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Quartz particles are potent in delivering the photosensitizer. Photoactivated MB@QP has a higher efficacy in eliminating bacteria from tooth dentin.

Shear bond characteristics and surface roughness of poly-ether-ether-ketone treated with contemporary surface treatment regimes bonded to composite resin.

AIM: To evaluate and compare the influence of contemporary surface treatments of air abrasions, sulfuric acid, and Photodynamic therapy (PDT) on the adhesive bonding and surface roughness of Poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) bonded to resin composite. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred and fifty PEEK (disk-shaped) specimens of 10 mm diameter and 2 mm thickness were prepared. Specimens were subjected to the following surface treatments, Control (no treatment), PDT, air abrasion using Alumina particles (110 µm) (AA-AP), Sulfuric acid (SA), and air abrasion using diamond particles (10-20 µm) AA-DP. Surface roughness (Ra) of treated samples were evaluated using surface profilometer. Universal testing machine was used to evaluate shear bond strength after composite resin build-up. Stereomicroscope was utilized for failure analysis of de-bonded samples of all five groups. Statistical analysis was performed utilizing one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to measure means and standard deviations of SBS among studied groups and the means of SBS were paralleled by Tukey multiple comparison tests (p > 0.05). RESULTS: The highest SBS was observed by 98% SA (19.25 ± 0.68 MPa). While specimen treated with PDT (11.69 ± 0.12 MPa) showed the lowest SBS. PEEK surface, treated with PDT and AA-DP demonstrated comparable SBS (p > 0.05). PEEK when pretreated with 98% SA (2.658 ± 0.658 µm) exhibited a significantly higher Ra value as compared to other surface-treated groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PEEK surface treated with SA showed the highest SBS and surface roughness compared to other groups. Surface roughness of PEEK treated with PDT, AA-AP, and AA-DP demonstrated no difference in Ra. PEEK surface treatment technique should be further investigated to develop reliable adhesive resin bonding.

Analgesic Efficacy of Curcuma longa (Curcumin) after Surgical Periodontal Therapy.

PURPOSE: To compare the analgesic efficacy of orally administered Curcuma longa (curcumin) and mefenamic acid (MA) after surgical periodontal therapy (SPT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-six periodontitis patients were randomly divided into two groups. In the test group, patients received curcumin capsules (200 mg), and in the control group, patients received MA (500 mg). All patients underwent post-operative antibiotic therapy using 500 mg amoxicillin and 400 mg metronidazole for 7 days. Post-operative pain and discomfort were evaluated using the numerical rating scale (NRS) and verbal rating scale (VRS), respectively. Evaluation were performed after 24 (T1), 48 (T2), and 72 h (T3). Group comparisons were done using Student's t-test and the Mann-Whitney U-test. The level of statistical significance was established at p < 0.05. RESULTS: All patients had stage 3/grade C periodontitis. The mean age of individuals in the test and control groups were 58.4 ± 7.3 and 57.2 ± 5.2 years, respectively. A family history of periodontal diseases was reported by 37.5% and 47.4% individuals in the test and control groups, respectively. In the test and control groups, the total mean duration of periodontal surgery was 168.2 ± 12.2 and 173.4 ± 10.7 min, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean NRS and VRS scores among patients in the test and control groups. In both groups, there was no statistically significant difference in the change in NRS scores at any time point. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with MA, curcumin is ineffective for pain and discomfort management after SPT. The possibility of the results being biased due to lack of operator blinding cannot be overlooked.

Effect of photobiomodulation after non-surgical mechanical debridement on cortisol levels in the peri-implant sulcular fluid among patients with peri-implant mucositis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this was to compare the efficacy of photobiomodulation after non-surgical mechanical debridement (MD) on cortisol levels (CL) in peri-implant sulcular fluid (PISF) among patients with peri-implant mucositis. METHODS: Patients with peri-implant mucositis were encompassed. All patients underwent non-surgical MD with (test group) and without (control group) a single application of photobiomodulation. Demographic data were collected and PISF was collected. Peri-implant modified plaque index (mPI), modified gingival index (mGI), probing depth and crestal bone loss were measured, and CL in PISF were recorded. All clinical parameters and PISF CL were re-assessed at 4 months of follow-up. p < .05 showed statistical significance. RESULTS: Seventeen (14 males and 3 females) and 17 (15 males and 2 females) patients with peri-implant mucositis were recruited in test and control groups. The mean age of patients in the test and control groups was 46.1 ± 6.5 and 50.2 ± 2.7 years respectively. At baseline, mPI, mGI, PD and PISF volume and CL in control and test groups were similar. At follow-up, there was a significant reduction in mPI (p < .001), mGI (p < .001), PD (p < .001) and PISF volume (p < .001) and CL (p < .001) in both groups compared with baseline. There was no difference in mPI, mGI, PD and PISF volume and CL in test and control groups at follow-up. CONCLUSION: In short term, non-surgical MD with photobiomodulation does not offer additional benefits in terms of reducing soft-tissue inflammatory parameters and PISF CL in patients with peri-implant mucositis.

An assessment of unstimulated salivary flow rate, IgA and clinical oral dryness among active and passive smokers.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of smoking on the whole salivary flow rate (SFR), IgA levels and clinical oral dryness (COD) among active and passive smokers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The participants were categorized as active smokers (N = 54) or passive smokers (N = 163). Saliva was collected in tubes and placed in ice storage at -70°C. Salivary IgA levels were assessed in duplication using the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Following the saliva sample collection, the subjects were assessed for COD using the COD score, SFR and caries. Chi-square test, the t-test and ANOVA were employed to compare the clinical impact of the smoking status associated with specific variables (smoking status, number of cigarettes, active caries, gender, age, COD score, IgA level and SFR). A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Two hundred and seventeen subjects with the mean age of 32.86±6.30 years, with 145 males (66.8%) and 72 females (33.2%), were included in the study. Among the active smokers, 88.8% were males compared to 11.2% females. The active smokers had the mean age of 32.52 years, a COD score of 1.43, an IgA level of 1.39 g/l, and a SFR of 0.37 ml/min. Among the passive smokers, 59.5% were males and 40.5% were females, with the mean age of 32.97 years, a COD score of 0.87 g/l, an IgA level of 1.47, and a SFR of 0.42 ml/min. Active caries showed a positive correlation with the number of cigarettes, with significance in the >35 years age group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The study demonstrated significant differences in SFR, IgA and COD scores among the active and passive smokers. The number of cigarettes had a negative impact on saliva production, IgA levels, the oral health status, and the progression of caries with respect to age and gender. Smoking potentially leads to xerostomia associated with active caries. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(1):39-51.

Evaluation of serum neuron specific enolase levels among patients with primary and secondary burning mouth syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: Burning mouth syndrome is a painful condition of the oral cavity with ambiguous pathogenesis and diagnosis. Neuron-specific enolase is increased in several conditions including peripheral neuropathy of diabetes, ophthalmopathies, spinal cord injuries and tumors. Evidence on association of burning mouth syndrome and neuron-specific enolase is limited. AIM: This study aims to evaluate neuron-specific enolase levels in primary and secondary burning mouth syndrome patients and compare the levels of neuron-specific enolase with associated conditions in secondary burning mouth syndrome. METHODS: One hundred and twenty-eight patients of more than 18 years of age with no gender predilection and having clinical symptoms of burning mouth syndrome and 135 healthy subjects were included. All the patients fulfilled Scala's criteria for the diagnosis of burning mouth syndrome, including "primary" (idiopathic) and "secondary" (resulting from identified precipitating factors) burning mouth syndrome patients. Blood samples were obtained from burning mouth syndrome patients. Serum neuron-specific enolase was evaluated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. To compare means and standard deviations, among primary and secondary burning mouth syndrome, data was analysed with analysis of variance and multiple comparisons test. RESULTS: The mean age of the study participants for burning mouth syndrome and healthy subjects was 53.30 and 51.6 years, respectively. Amongst the secondary burning mouth syndrome group, 32 (25%) of the patients had menopause, 15 (11.7%) had diabetes, eight (6.2%) of the patients had nutritional deficiency, seven (5.4%) had combined diabetes, menopause, and depression, six (4.6%) had combined diabetes and depression, four (3.1%) were diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome. A minor percentage of 2.3% (three) had gastroesophageal reflux disease, while the remaining three (2.3%) patients in the secondary burning mouth syndrome group were on anti-depressants. There was a statistically significant increase in the levels of neuron-specific enolase in primary burning mouth syndrome as compared to the secondary burning mouth syndrome and healthy groups. Among the subgroups of secondary burning mouth syndrome, diabetic individuals showed a significant increase in neuron-specific enolase level when compared with other conditions in the secondary burning mouth syndrome patients.Discussion and conclusion: The raised serum neuron-specific enolase levels in patients suffering from primary burning mouth syndrome highlight a possible neuropathic mechanism. It was also increased in the sub-group of secondary burning mouth syndrome patients having diabetes. Although it cannot be ascertained whether the deranged values in the diabetic group were due to burning mouth syndrome or due to diabetes, the raised quantity of neuron-specific enolase in the primary burning mouth syndrome group is a reliable diagnostic indicator. Future studies on the assessment of neuron-specific enolase levels as a diagnostic tool for onset and management of primary and secondary burning mouth syndrome are recommended.

Peri-implant Sulcular Fluid Galectin-1, Soluble Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor and IL-1ß Levels under Peri-implant Inflammatory Conditions.

PURPOSE: Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and interleukin 1-beta (IL-1ß) are inflammatory biomarkers, whereas galectin-1 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine. The relationship between suPAR, galactin-1 and IL-1ß levels in peri-implant sulcular fluid (PISF) in relation to dental implants remains unaddressed. The aim was to assess suPAR, galectin-1, and IL-1ß levels in PISF under peri-implant inflammatory conditions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Demographic data and information related to jaw location and duration of implants in function as well as systemic health was retrieved from patients' dental records. Peri-implant plaque and gingival indices (PI and GI, respectively), probing depth (PD) and crestal bone loss (CBL) were recorded. The PISF was collected and levels of suPAR, galectin-1 and IL-1ß were determined using standard techniques. Sample-size estimation and statistical analyses were done. Correlation of suPAR and galectin-1 with IL-1ß were assessed via logistic regression. p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Seventy-two patients (45 males and 27 females) with peri-implant diseases were included. Thirty-six patients (22 males and 14 females) had peri-implant mucositis; 36 (23 males and 13 females) had healthy peri-implant tissues. The PISF volume was statistically significantly higher among patients with (0.52 ± 0.05 µl) than without peri-implant diseases (0.06 ± 0.01 µl) (p < 0.001). The PISF levels of suPAR (p < 0.01), galectin-1 (p < 0.01) and IL-1ß (p < 0.01) were statistically significantly higher among patients with than without peri-implant diseases. In patients with peri-implant mucositis, PISF suPAR (p < 0.001) and galectin-1 (p < 0.001) levels correlated with PISF IL-1ß levels. In patients with peri-implant mucositis, increasing peri-implant PD and IL-1ß levels directly correlated with increased PISF suPAR (p < 0.001) and galectin-1 (p < 0.05) levels. CONCLUSION: Increased PISF levels of suPAR, galectin and IL-1ß suggest that these proteins possibly contribute towards the pathogenesis of peri-implant inflammation, and are potential biomarkers of peri-implant diseases.

Assessment of Unstimulated Whole Salivary Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α) and Cellular Micronuclei Levels in Snuff (Naswar) Users and Non-Users for Early Diagnosis of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

The aim of the study was to investigate the unstimulated whole saliva (UWS) tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and cellular micronuclei in snuff dippers (Naswar) compared to healthy control subjects. The case control study was conducted over 9 months at a tertiary care center. Sixty patients were divided into two groups: Snuff dippers (SD) (Naswar) and non-snuff dippers (NSD) (control subjects). The included self-reported SD used Snuff twice daily for more than 12 months. UWS was collected and salivary TNF-α assessment was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). For cellular micronuclei, buccal mucosa was brushed to obtain cells in Naswar users, fixed with a dibutylphthalate polystyrene xylene (DPX) mounting to view micronuclei. Means and standard deviations were compared using the t-test and outcomes were related using Pearson correlation, considering p ≤ 0.05 as significant. The mean age of participants was 38.85 ± 11.56 years. The mean duration of snuff use was 20.43 ± 12.79 years and the common site for Naswar placement was the lower vestibule (n = 19, 63.3%). TNF-α levels among SD were 9.6 ± 3.3 pg/mL, which were significantly higher than levels in NSD, 5.2 ± 3 pg/mL (p < 0.05). The number of cellular micronuclei in SD was 30.7 ± 7.8, which was comparatively higher than in NSD, which was 9.2 ± 3.3 (p < 0.05). The duration of snuff use was positively correlated to TNF-α levels (p = 0.048) rather than the micronuclei number (p = 0.97). SD showed higher levels of TNF-α and cellular micronuclei compared with NSD (control subjects); a positive correlation was shown with the duration of snuff use. We conclude that TNF-α and micronuclei are potential salivary biomarkers for an oral biological effect in snuff (Naswar) users.

Clinical, radiographic and restorative parameters for short tuberosity implants placed in smokers: a retrospective study with 5 year follow-up.

This study aimed to estimate and compare the clinical, radiographic, and restorative parameters around short tuberosity implants (STIs) placed in cigarette smokers (CS) and never smokers (NS). In this 60-month follow-up retrospective study, a total of 50 (37 males + 13 females) individuals who had received 82 dental implants were included. These participants were categorized into two groups as follows: (i) Group-1: 25 self-reported systemically healthy CS with 43 STIs; and (ii) Group-2: 25 self-reported systemically healthy NS with 39 STIs. In both groups, peri-implant plaque index (PI), probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), and crestal bone loss (CBL) and restorative parameters were measured at 12 and 60 months of follow-up. Group comparisons were performed utilizing the Kruskal-Wallis test. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. In CS and NS, the mean age of participants was 58.5 and 60.7 years, respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed in the overall mean levels of PD and CBL around STIs among CS and NS. However, a statistically significant increase was observed in the mean scores of BOP and PI around STIs in the NS and CS at 12 and 60 months follow-up, respectively. In both groups, the loosening of the implant was the most frequently encountered type of STI failure. The outcomes of the present study suggest that STIs placed in maxillary tuberosity can show reliable clinical, radiographic, and restorative stability among cigarettes smokers and non-smokers. However, the role of smoking status and oral hygiene cannot be disregarded in this scenario.

Disinfection of acrylic denture resin polymer with Rose Bengal, Methylene blue and Porphyrin derivative in photodynamic therapy.

AIM: The study aimed to assess the effect of in-vitro chlorhexidine and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) disinfection protocols against acrylic resin specimens colonized with S. mutans, S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Reference strains of S. mutans, S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans were tested. Sixteen blocks of acrylic specimens were prepared by heat-cure acrylic resin and contaminated by in-vitro biofilm growth. Specimens in group 1, group 2 and group 3 were treated with Rose Bengal (RB), methylene blue (MB) 500 mg/L and porphyrin derivative (PD) 5 ml respectively, for the sensitization of biofilms. All photosensitizers (PS) were activated by LED at different wavelength. CHX was prepared in sterile distilled water and applied for 60 s. Each contaminated specimen was sprayed on all its surfaces with the aforementioned photosensitizers and control CHX. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) model was used to test the effect of the treatments and Tukey multiple comparison tests to compare means OF CFU/mL (log10) for exposed E. coli, C. albicans, S aureus, and S. mutans RESULTS: Specimens treated with 0.12% CHX (control) demonstrated a significant reduction in CFU/mL (log10) for exposed E. coli; 2.04±0.07 CFU/mL, C. albicans; 2.09±0.85 CFU/mL, S aureus; 3.04±0.11 CFU/mL, and S. mutans; 2.54±0.91 CFU/mL. The intragroup comparison revealed E.coli did not exhibit a decrease in reduction CFU/mL (log10) when acrylic resin irradiated with RB 5 µm. Whereas, CFU/mL (log10) values of S.aureus; 3.62±0.68 and S.mutans; 3.41±0.13 plummeted (p<0.05). Intergroup comparison showed E.coli values to display comparable reduction when disinfected with MB 500 mg/L and 0.12% CHX; 3.16±0.34 and 2.04±0.07 CFU/mL (log10) (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Photosensitizers (RB, MB, PD) are selective in reducing bacterial count on acrylic resin blocks. CHX was found to be effective against all bacteria E.coli, C.albicans, S.aureus, and S.mutans at a concentration of 0.12%.

Association of Salivary Content Alteration and Early Ageusia Symptoms in COVID-19 Infections: A Systematic Review.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19) is a major threat to the health and prosperity of human life at present. It has resulted in loss of thousands of lives globally and has brought countries to the brink of economic, social, and health collapse. A major issue of this infection is the ease with which it transmits through salivary droplets and its survival for long durations outside the body. Therefore, its early detection is critical in prevention, diagnostic, and management efforts of COVID-19 patients. Loss of taste and smell is one of the early symptoms reported in these patients and the virus is abundantly found in the salivary secretion of the infected symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Infection and inflammation of salivary glands are common among viral infections, particularly in the early stages, which lead to salivary composition changes. Chemosensory sensation of taste is critically dependent on the salivary flow rate and its inorganic constituents, protein levels, specific 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate and 3',5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate levels, ghrelins, pH levels, and enzymes. Therefore, the question arises, "Does COVID-19 infection alter the salivary components and composition leading to early transient symptoms of Ageusia and hypogeusia?" This review shows association of the COVID-19 and Ageusia, in addition to the early viral infection of salivary glands and possible changes in salivary flow and content. Therefore, suggesting a potential association between early ageusia in COVID-19 infection and salivary compositional changes.

Assessment of Tumor Angiogenesis by Expression of CD 105 in Ameloblastoma, Odontogenic Keratocyst and Central Giant Cell Lesion.

BACKGROUND: Angiogenesis is critical for tumor growth and reflects the aggressive behavior of invasive odontogenic lesions [like Ameloblastoma (AM), Odontogenic Keratocyst (OKC) and Central giant cell lesion (CGCL)]. Mean vascular density (MVD) shows the angiogenic potential and CD105 is an ideal endothelial biomarker due to its specificity to new blood vessels for MVD detection. The aim of the study was to compare the MVD (angiogenic potential) among AM, OKC and CGCL in comparison to Pyogenic Granuloma (PG) using CD105 biomarker. METHODS: Sixty-four primary cases of odontogenic invasive tumors (AM, OKC and CGCL) and PG, diagnosed clinically and histologically were included in the study, with 16 samples in each group. Tissue samples of peripheral AM, Peripheral GCL of jaws, malignant AM, and specimen with insufficient tissue were excluded. Tissue sections were embedded, processed and stained using Hematoxylin and Eosin (H and E). Immunohistochemistry was performed using antibodies against CD105, with positive brown cytoplasmic staining in the endothelial cells of neo-vasculature. Distinct countable, positively stained endothelial cell or clusters were evaluated under light microscope for identification of MVD. ANOVA and t-test were applied for statistical analysis of data. RESULTS: Highest MVD was displayed in CGCL (32.99±0.77) and the minimum was observed in OKC (7.21± 0.75) respectively. CGCL showed significantly higher MVD to AM, OKC and PG lesions (p <0.05). AM (8.07± 0.36) and Odontogenic Keratocyst (7.21± 0.75) showed comparable MVD, which was lower than PG (14.7± 0.96) and CGCL vascular density (p < 0.01) respectively. CONCLUSION: CGCL was most aggressive, with highest MVD among the investigated odontogenic lesions (OKC, AM and PG). The proliferative aggressive behavior of Odontogenic Keratocyst is comparable to AM due to comparable mean vascular density.
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