Fracture resistance of partial and complete coverage veneers and ceramic crowns for maxillary central incisors.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Minimally invasive treatments have gained popularity in recent years. However, research comparing the fracture resistance of lithium disilicate partial coverage veneer restorations with that of ceramic crowns is lacking. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the fracture resistance of lithium disilicate restorations fabricated for preparations of various designs. The designs included veneer preparations with finish lines in the upper, middle, and lower third of the facial surface and ceramic crown preparations with margins in the lower third of the facial surface. All restorations were designed and fabricated using a chairside digital workflow. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Four maxillary right central incisor typodont teeth were prepared for partial coverage veneer preparation with the margin in the upper middle third of the facial surface (PU1/3); partial coverage veneer preparation with margin in lower middle third of the facial surface (PL1/3); complete coverage veneer preparation (CV) with margin in the cervical region; and ceramic crown (CC) preparation. Each preparation was scanned, and 15 casts were 3D printed from each scan. A total of 60 lithium disilicate restorations were fabricated (n=15 per group) using a chairside computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) system (Primescan and MCXL). The different restorations were cemented to the 3D printed testing dies with a photopolymerizable resin cement. The specimens were artificially aged with 10 000 thermal cycles between 5 and 55 °C with a dwell time of 30 seconds and were loaded to failure using a universal testing machine. The maximum load to fracture was analyzed using a 1-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey honestly significant difference (HSD) test (α=.05). Additionally, the fracture patterns of the specimens were evaluated with a stereomicroscope for descriptive purposes. RESULTS: The mean fracture resistance of the chairside CAD-CAM lithium disilicate veneers and ceramic crowns was statistically different depending on the design of the restoration (P<.05). Group CC demonstrated the highest fracture resistance values (1440.66 N), followed by CV (929.8 N) and PU1/3 (756.13 N). The lowest value was for PL1/3 (532.4 N). CONCLUSIONS: The fracture resistance measured for the maxillary central incisor partial coverage veneers with margins in the middle third of the facial surface appear capable of resisting average occlusal forces. However, these veneers demonstrated lower fracture resistance values when compared with complete coverage veneers. Further, lithium disilicate crowns demonstrated higher fracture resistance than veneers, irrespective of their design.

Fracture resistance of chairside CAD-CAM lithium disilicate occlusal veneer with various designs after mechanical aging.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the fracture resistance of chairside computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) lithium disilicate crown, onlay, and non-anatomical occlusal veneer (A-OV) with and without margin fabricated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-four CAD-CAM lithium disilicate restorations were designed as (1) complete coverage crown (CCC); (2) A-OV with margin; (3) non-A-OV with margin (NA-OV-M); and (4) non-A-OV without margin (NA-OV-NM), 16 of each. Restorations were crystallized and adhesively luted to resin dies using resin cement. Specimens were then subjected to 400,000 cycles of chewing in a mastication simulator. A universal testing machine was used to apply a compressive load at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min to the long axis of the tooth with a stainless-steel sphere until fracture occurred. One-way ANOVA followed by post hoc tests were used to assess the impact of preparation design on the fracture load of CAD-CAM lithium disilicate restorations. RESULTS: The highest fracture load was recorded for CAD-CAM lithium disilicate indirect restorations for non-A-OVs preparation with margin (2549 ± 428 N) and onlay (2549 ± 293 N) and the lowest fracture load was recorded for CCCs (2389 ± 428 N); however, there was no significant (p = 0.640) between groups. CONCLUSIONS: CAD-CAM lithium disilicate restorations fabricated for anatomical and non-A-OV preparation display a fracture resistance similar to CCCs. Conservative partial coverage restorations may be considered an acceptable approach for posterior teeth.

Fracture load of chairside CAD-CAM veneers fabricated with pre-and fully crystalized lithium disilicate ceramics.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the fracture load of chairside computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) veneers fabricated with two conventional pre-crystallized and two fully crystallized lithium disilicate ceramic materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-five chairside CAD-CAM veneers (15 specimens/group) for maxillary right central incisors were fabricated with different lithium disilicate brands: (1) IPS e.max CAD; (2) Amber Mill; (3) Cerec Tessera; (4) n!ce Straumann; and (5) GC Initial LiSi Block. Restorations were cemented with resin luting cement (Variolink Esthetic, Ivoclar) to 3D-printed resin dies. Bonded restorations received 5000 thermal cycles and then were loaded until fracture. Statistical analysis included One-Way ANOVA. RESULTS: Conventional pre-crystallized e.max CAD displayed the highest fracture load value (640 N), followed by fully-crystallized n!ce Straumann (547 N), pre-crystallized Cerec Tessera (503 N), pre-crystallized Amber Mill (476 N), respectively; fully-crystallized GC Initial LiSi Block (431 N) displayed the lowest values. When comparing the fracture load of recent lithium disilicate ceramic material to the e.max group, which acted as the control, significant differences were noted. The LiSi Block GC group, in particular, had considerably higher mean difference values (208.867, p < 0.001, 95% CI [89.63, 328.10]), as did the Amber Mill group (164.200, p = 0.002, 95% CI [44.96, 283.44]) and CEREC Tessera group (137.533, p = 0.016, 95% CI [18.30, 256.77]). The e.max and n!ce Straumann groups had no statistically significant differences in mean scores (92.933, p = 0.198, 95% CI [-26.30, 212.17]). These findings imply that the clinical performance of recent lithium disilicate veneers varies when compared to the e.max CAD group. CONCLUSIONS: The fracture load of chairside CAD-CAM lithium disilicate veneers for maxillary central incisors varies according to the type of ceramic brands. Conventional pre-crystallized e.max CAD displayed higher fracture load than the recent pre- and fully-crystallized lithium disilicate materials, emphasizing the significance of choosing the right product based on the desired clinical outcome.

Influence of occlusal thickness on the fracture resistance of chairside milled lithium disilicate posterior full-coverage single-unit prostheses containing virgilite: A comparative in vitro study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the fracture resistance of chairside computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) lithium disilicate mandibular posterior crowns with virgilite of different occlusal thicknesses and compare them to traditional lithium disilicate crowns. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-five chairside CAD-CAM crowns were fabricated for mandibular right first molars, 60 from novel lithium disilicate with virgilite (CEREC Tessera, Dentsply Sirona), and 15 from traditional lithium disilicate (e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent). These crowns were distributed across five groups based on occlusal thickness and material: Group 1 featured CEREC Tessera crowns with 0.8 mm thickness, Group 2 had 1.0 mm thickness, Group 3 had 1.2 mm thickness, Group 4 with 1.5 mm thickness, and Group 5 included e.max CAD crowns with 1.0 mm thickness. These crowns were luted onto 3D-printed resin dies using Multilink Automix resin cement (Ivoclar Vivadent). Subsequently, they underwent cyclic loading (2,000,000 cycles at 1 Hz with a 275 N force) and loading until fracture. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) assessed the fractured specimens. Statistical analysis involved one-way ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis Test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Fracture resistance varied significantly (<0.001) across mandibular molar crowns fabricated from chairside CAD-CAM lithium disilicate containing virgilite, particularly between crowns with 0.8 mm and those with 1.2 and 1.5 mm occlusal thickness. However, no significant differences were found when comparing crowns with 1, 1.2, and 1.5 mm thicknesses. CEREC Tessera crowns with 1.5 mm thickness exhibited the highest resistance (2119 N/mm2), followed by those with 1.2 mm (1982 N/mm2), 1.0 mm (1763 N/mm2), and 0.8 mm (1144 N/mm2) thickness, whereas e.max CAD crowns with 1.0 mm occlusal thickness displayed the lowest resistance (814 N/mm2). CONCLUSIONS: The relationship between thickness and fracture resistance in the virgilite lithium disilicate full-coverage crowns was directly proportional, indicating that increased thickness corresponded to higher fracture resistance. No significant differences were noted among crowns with thicknesses ranging from 1 to 1.5 mm. This novel ceramic exhibited superior fracture resistance compared to traditional lithium disilicate.

Effect of incisal preparation design on the fracture strength of monolithic zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate laminate veneers.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the fracture resistance of monolithic zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate laminate veneers (LVs) fabricated on various incisal preparation designs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty maxillary central incisors with various preparation designs were 3D-printed, 15 each, including preparation for: (1) LV with feathered-edge design; (2) LV with butt-joint design; (3) LV with palatal chamfer; and (4) full-coverage crown. Restorations were then designed and manufactured from zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS) following the contour of a pre-operation scan. Restorations were bonded to the assigned preparation using resin cement and following the manufacturer's instructions. Specimens were then subjected to 10,000 thermocycles at 5 to 55°C with a dwell time of 30 s. The fracture strength of specimens was then assessed using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/min. One-way ANOVA and Bonferroni correction multiple comparisons were used to assess the fracture strength differences between the test groups (α = 0.001). Descriptive fractographic analysis of specimens was carried out with scanning electron microscopy images. RESULTS: Complete coverage crown and LV with palatal chamfer design had the highest fracture resistance values (781.4 ± 151.4 and 618.2 ± 112.6 N, respectively). Single crown and LV with palatal chamfer had no significant difference in fracture strength (p > 05). LV with feathered-edge and butt-joint designs provided significantly (p < 05) lower fracture resistance than complete coverage crown and LV with palatal chamfer design. CONCLUSION: The fracture resistance of chairside milled ZLS veneers was significantly influenced by the incisal preparation designs tested. Within the limitation of this study, when excessive occlusal forces are expected, LV with palatal chamfer display is the most conservative method of fabricating an indirect restoration.

Effect of preparation design and endodontic access on fracture resistance of zirconia overlays in mandibular molars: An in vitro study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the fracture resistance of zirconia overlays, considering various preparation designs and the presence of endodontic access. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety translucent zirconia (5Y-PSZ) overlay restorations were divided into six groups (n = 15/group) based on different preparation designs, with and without endodontic access: chamfer margin 4 mm above the gingival level without (group 1) and with endodontic access (group 2); margin 2 mm above the gingival level without (group 3) and with endodontic access (group 4); overlay with no chamfer margin without (group 5) and with endodontic access (group 6). Restorations were bonded to mandibular first molar resin dies, and the groups with endodontic access were sealed with flowable resin composite. All restorations underwent 100,000 cycles of thermal cycling between 5°C and 55°C, followed by loading until fracture. Maximum load and fracture resistance were recorded. ANOVA with Tukey post-hoc tests were used for statistical comparison (α < 0.05). RESULTS: Fracture resistance significantly varied among overlay designs with and without endodontic access (p < 0.001), except for the no-margin overlays (groups 5 and 6). Overlays with a 2 mm margin above the gingival margin with endodontic access (group 4) exhibited significantly higher fracture resistance compared to both the 4-mm supragingival (group 2) and no-margin (group 6) designs, even when compared to their respective intact groups (groups 1 and 5). There were no significant differences between the no-margin and 4-mm supragingival overlays. CONCLUSION: The more extensive zirconia overlay for mandibular molars is the first choice since the 2 mm margin above the gingival level design withstood considerable loads even after undergoing endodontic access. A no-margin overlay is preferred over the 4-mm supragingival design as it preserves more tooth structure and there was no outcome difference, irrespective of endodontic access. Caution is warranted in interpreting these findings due to the in vitro nature of the study.

Expediting the Rehabilitation of Severely Resorbed Ridges Using a Combination of CAD-CAM and Analog Techniques: A Case Report.

With the life expectancy increasing, there is a growing need for prosthetic dental treatments to restore the oral health, function, and quality of life of edentulous patients. Presently, only a few articles are available describing the oral rehabilitation of patients with severely resorbed ridges with milled complete dentures. This clinical case report provides a straightforward protocol consisting of a combination of analog and digital techniques for the rehabilitation of edentulous patients with severely resorbed ridges with milled fixed and removable complete dentures. This technique permits the minimization of the number of appointments, improves patient comfort, allows for the digital archiving of important clinical data, and permits the manufacture of prostheses with improved mechanical properties. These favorable outcomes were achieved by using the patient's existing PMMA complete denture as a custom tray for a final impression with light-bodied Polyvinylsiloxane. Subsequently, the resulting models were digitized, and a digital complete denture was designed and manufactured in an expedited manner using CAD-CAM techniques. Therefore, this case report highlights the potential of CAD/CAM technology to predictably restabilize oral functions and improve patients' quality of life.

Short-term data suggests cognitive benefits in the elderly with single-implant overdentures.

DESIGN: This study was an extension of a randomized crossover clinical trial approved by the institutional ethics committee (approval number: D2014-148) and adhered to the CONSORT guidelines. The original study juxtaposed patient contentment with single-implant overdentures (1-IODs) against conventional complete dentures (CCDs), with patient satisfaction being the primary focus. In this follow-up study, the cognitive function of edentulous patients receiving 1-IODs was assessed, specifically monitoring for the emergence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) throughout a three-year period. Patient outcomes were systematically recorded at predetermined intervals: initially, two months post-1-IOD placement, after one year (with groups alternated between denture types at eight-month marks), then after two and three years. A prosthodontist with a decade of expertise performed all denture-related procedures. This follow-up emphasized the cognitive outcomes using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-J), considering it alongside previously documented results on masticatory function, bone resorption, survival rates, and patient-reported outcomes. CASE SELECTION: Between 2015 and 2016, a follow-up study enrolled edentulous patients over 50 years of age who were proficient in Japanese, had sufficient mandibular bone for implants, and were free of systemic health issues and habits that could impact oral health. The participants were randomly divided into two groups after receiving a central mandibular implant. Group 1 initially used 1-IODs, and Group 2 used unloaded CCDs. After two months and subsequent periods, they swapped denture types. Eventually, all patients chose 1-IODs for continued use. Implant success was monitored over three years. The design featured block randomization and accounted for a sample size of 22, determined to be sufficient for evaluating the primary outcome of patient satisfaction. All patients underwent careful allocation and received customized dental interventions, with detailed radiographic planning and surgical precision guiding the implantation process. DATA ANALYSIS: Multivariable linear mixed models were used to assess within-group changes in both overall and specific cognitive function scores across five timepoints. Age, assessment interval, and upper jaw denture status were incorporated as consistent variables, while individual participants were considered variable elements in the analysis. SPSS software version 22.0 was utilized to conduct the statistical tests, and a p value threshold of 0.05 was predetermined to establish statistical significance. RESULTS: Twenty-two patients with edentulous mandibles received 1-IODs. Memory and executive functions saw significant score increases at multiple timepoints over the three-year period, with statistical significance. Though one participant dropped out and another passed away, and two did not complete the 3-year follow-up, the remaining 18 participants provided comprehensive data. Age and type of maxillary denture were significant factors, influencing MoCA-J scores with older participants and those with fixed dentures showing lower scores in certain domains. Overall, the findings illustrated the positive correlation between 1-IODs and cognitive function in older adults. CONCLUSIONS: Older adults with no natural teeth left in their mandible showed improved cognitive function after one and three years of using 1-IODs, as reflected by their total and specific cognitive domain scores. The study suggests that such implant therapy may offer protective benefits against cognitive decline, demonstrating clinical relevance for patient care, regardless of the maxillary arch (antagonist) condition.

Using the foundation restoration as a blueprint: An uncomplicated approach to retrofitting crowns to existing removable partial dentures using CAD-CAM technology.

Removable partial dentures have been used to rehabilitate partially edentulous patients for decades. A challenging but commonly encountered procedure is retrofitting a crown to an existing removable partial denture. Several techniques have been proposed for fabricating these complex prostheses, some involving the intraoral application of polymers to the abutment tooth or making impressions of the preparation with the removable prosthesis seated. The present technique presents an approach that simplifies the design and fabrication of retrofitted crowns for fractured abutment teeth needing foundation restorations. This approach involves the implementation of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing technology to record and utilize the contours of the foundation restoration established intraorally as a blueprint for the retrofitted crown.

Effect of resin cement selection on fracture resistance of chairside CAD-CAM lithium disilicate crowns containing virgilite: A comparative in vitro study.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Studies on the fracture performance of a recently introduced computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) lithium disilicate ceramic containing virgilite with different cements are lacking. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the fracture resistance of crowns made of a recently introduced chairside CAD-CAM lithium disilicate containing virgilite cemented with different types of adhesive luting cement. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty complete coverage crowns for a maxillary right central incisor were milled out of a lithium disilicate with virgilite (CEREC Tessera) (n=48) and a traditional lithium disilicate (e.max CAD) (n=12) using a chairside CAD-CAM system (Primescan). The central incisor tooth preparation included a 1.5-mm incisal reduction, a 1.0-mm axial reduction, and a 1.0-mm chamfer finish line. The restorations were bonded with different types of resin cement to 3D printed dies of the tooth preparation and were divided into 5 groups (n=12 per group): e.max CAD with Multilink Automix (E.Mu); Tessera with Multilink Automix (T.Mu); Tessera with Calibra (T.Ca); Tessera with Unicem (T.Un); and Tessera with Speedcem (T.Sp). The cemented restorations were stored in water for 30 days and then loaded until they were fractured in compression. The load at fracture was analyzed with a 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the honestly significant difference (HSD) Tukey test (α=.05). RESULTS: The mean fracture resistance of traditional lithium disilicate and virgilite lithium disilicate anterior crowns significantly differed depending on the type of resin cement used (P<.05). Group E.Mu displayed the highest values (946.35 ±155 N), followed by group T.Un (819.59 ±232 N), group T.Sp (675.52 ±153 N), and group T.Mu (656.95 ±193 N). The lowest values were displayed by group T.Ca (567.94 ±184 N). CONCLUSIONS: The fracture resistance of lithium disilicate containing virgilite and traditional lithium disilicate crowns cemented with the same cement displayed statistically similar values. However, significant differences were observed when the virgilite lithium disilicate crowns were cemented with different types of adhesive luting cement. The crowns in the T.Ca group displayed the lowest fracture resistance.

Effect of sintering on the translucency of CAD-CAM lithium disilicate restorations: A comparative in vitro study.

PURPOSE: The available independent data on the translucency of novel pre and fully sintered chairside computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) lithium disilicate are limited. This comparative in vitro study evaluated the translucency degree of pre and fully sintered chairside CAD-CAM lithium disilicate crowns after optional, required, and additional firing processes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and five maxillary left central incisor crowns manufactured by three different CAD-CAM lithium disilicate brands shade A1 were assigned into seven groups as follows (n = 15): (1) Straumann n!ce without sintering; (2) Straumann n!ce with one additional sintering process; (3) Straumann n!ce with two additional sintering processes; (4) Amber Mill with one sintering process; (5) Amber Mill with two sintering processes; (6) IPS e.max CAD with one sintering process; and (7) IPS e.max CAD with two sintering processes. The translucency of all crowns was evaluated with a color imaging spectrophotometer. All statistical analyses were performed using statistical software. A standard level of significance was set at α < 0.05. RESULTS: All the milled crowns presented different degrees of translucency, and additional sintering processes altered it. IPS e.max CAD with two (4.33 ± 0.26) and one (4.01 ± 0.15) sintering processes displayed the highest translucency, whereas Straumann n!ce with no sintering process provided the lowest value (2.82 ± 0.16). CONCLUSIONS: The translucency of chairside lithium disilicate single-unit full-coverage restorations manufactured with subtractive technology was significantly influenced by the brand and the number of sintering processes. The traditional presintered IPS e.max CAD and the fully crystallized glass-ceramic Straumann n!ce considerably increased the translucency after one additional firing process, whereas Amber Mill decreased its translucency.

Traditional versus conservative endodontic access impact on fracture resistance of chairside CAD-CAM lithium disilicate anterior crowns: An in vitro study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of traditional and conservative endodontic access hole preparation on fracture resistance of chairside computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) lithium disilicate maxillary right central incisor crowns. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-seven milled lithium disilicate maxillary right central incisor crowns were designed and fabricated with a chairside CAD-CAM system (Planmeca Romexis, Planmeca). The abutment preparation had a 1.0 mm incisal reduction and 1.0 mm chamfer finish. The restorations were bonded with resin cement to printed resin dies (n = 19 per group) and were treated and divided into three groups, (1) no endodontic access, (2) traditional triangular endodontic access, and (3) conservative ovoidal endodontic access. The endodontic access of the crowns was sealed with flowable resin composite. Restorations were subjected to 10,000 cycles of thermal cycling between 5° and 55°C. Then, restorations were loaded and exposed to compressive loading force, and the crack initiation (CI) and complete fracture (CF) were recorded. SEM micrographs of broken specimens on the printed dies were captured. ANOVA test and Bonferroni's correction were used for statistical comparison. RESULTS: The fracture resistance among the three groups varied. Crowns with no endodontic access displayed significantly (p < 0.001) higher resistance [CI: 1025 (121) N; CF 1134 (127) N], followed by crowns with conservative ovoidal endodontic access [CI: 924 (60) N; CF: 1000 (72) N. Crowns with traditional triangular endodontic access showed the significantly (p < 0.001) lowest fracture resistance [CI: 635 (82) N; CF: 709 (75) N]. CONCLUSION: The fracture resistance of chairside CAD-CAM lithium disilicate maxillary anterior crowns is influenced by the type of endodontic access provided. Conservative ovoidal endodontic access provides crowns with higher fracture resistance than traditional triangular endodontic access. Crowns with no endodontic access provided the highest resistance than other types of endodontic access.

Minimally Invasive Laminate Veneer Therapy for Maxillary Central Incisors.

Minimally invasive dentistry is a considered process that requires the clinician to be prepared with the ideal sequence and the tools needed. This report describes a well-planned ultraconservative approach using only two ceramic laminate veneers for the maxillary central incisors to significantly improve the patient's overall smile. A 30-year-old female presented with the chief complaints of having diastemas between the central and lateral incisors as well as incisal wear. Diagnostic wax-up and mock-up were performed, and the patient approved the minimally invasive treatment with veneers only for central incisors. A reduction guide aided the conservative tooth preparations, and hand-crafted feldspathic veneers were bonded under total isolation with a rubber dam. The two final conservative veneers significantly improved the smile and fulfilled the patient's expectations. Following proper planning and sequencing, predictable outcomes were obtained and fulfilled the patient's esthetic demands. Minimally invasive restorative dentistry with only two single veneers can impact the entire smile frame. Overtreatment in the esthetic zone is unnecessary to meet a patient's esthetic expectations.

Ceramic versus Composite Resin Polishing Systems on the Surface Roughness of Milled Leucite-Reinforced Ceramics.

Background and Objective: This study aimed to compare the surface finish of milled leucite-reinforced ceramics polished with ceramic and composite polishing systems based on the manufacturers' recommendations. Materials and Methods: Sixty subtractive computer-aided manufactured (s-CAM) leucite-reinforced glass-ceramic specimens (IPS-Empress-CAD) were assigned into six groups: no polishing, a ceramic polishing kit, and four composite kit groups. The roughness average (Ra) was evaluated in microns using a profilometer, and scanning electron micrographs were obtained for qualitative analysis. A Tukey HSD posthoc test (α = 0.05) was used to determine significant intergroup differences. Results: After surface evaluation of the ceramics, the Ra values of the polishing systems ranked OptraFine (0.41 ± 0.26) < Enhance (1.60 ± 0.54) < Shofu (2.14 ± 0.44) < Astropol (4.05 ± 0.72) < DiaComp (5.66 ± 0.62) < No Polishing (5.66 ± 0.74). Discussion: Composite polishing systems did not provide as smooth surfaces as the ceramic polishing kit for CAD-CAM leucite-reinforced ceramics. Thus, using ceramic polishing systems, polishing leucite ceramics is recommended, whereas composite polishing systems should not be considered as an alternative for use in minimally invasive dentistry.

Lack of keratinized mucosa increases peri-implantitis risk.

DESIGN: A systematic appraisal and statistical aggregation of primary studies in humans. DATA SOURCES: The researchers utilized PubMed (Medline) and Scopus databases as the primary data sources for this study. They performed a comprehensive literature search based on free keywords and Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms to enhance the search accuracy. The database search was concluded on November 13, 2022. Furthermore, a meticulous examination of the references cited in the selected studies was conducted to identify additional relevant articles that could be incorporated into the analysis. STUDY SELECTION: The systematic review focused on partially or fully edentulous patients receiving dental implants and aimed to determine if the lack of keratinized mucosa at the implant site increased the risk of peri-implantitis compared to patients with adequate keratinized mucosa. Human studies with a minimum of 100 implants, cross-sectional, cohort, or case-control designs, and a follow-up period of at least one year were included. Studies lacking a clear case definition or information on peri-implantitis and those that did not investigate keratinized mucosa as a risk indicator were excluded. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two reviewers independently utilized a systematic review screening website (Rayyan, Qatar Computing Research Institute, Qatar Foundation) to select potential articles, and conflicts were resolved through discussion or consultation with a third reviewer. The data extraction process involved recording information from the included articles, such as study design, patient and implant numbers, prosthesis type (fixed or removable), follow-up duration, peri-implantitis case definition, prevalence at patient and implant levels, keratinized mucosa cutoff value, odds ratio (OR) of peri-implantitis considering keratinized mucosa, and conclusions on the potential effect of keratinized mucosa from each study. The Newcastle Ottawa scale (NOS) and a modified version of NOS were used, respectively, to assess the quality of cohort and cross-sectional studies. Studies scoring below 6 out of 9 points were classified as low quality. For the meta-analysis, the relationship between peri-implantitis and keratinized mucosa was evaluated using the odds ratio (OR) and standard error (SE). Heterogeneity was assessed through the Chi2 test and I2 index, determining whether a random-effects or fixed-effects model should be applied. Subgroup and cluster analyses were conducted based on specific criteria, and forest plots and funnel plots were generated to visualize results and identify potential study bias. Sensitivity analysis was performed to verify the robustness of the meta-analysis, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The Review Manager (RevMan) software facilitated data analysis. The GRADE rating system was used to determine the level of evidence, considering factors such as bias risk, imprecision, inconsistency, indirectness, and publication bias. The certainty of the evidence was evaluated based on the overall outcomes of analyzed subgroups. RESULTS: Twenty-two primary studies were identified, and a meta-analysis was conducted on 16 cross-sectional studies. The prevalence of peri-implantitis ranged from 6.68% to 62.3% at the patient level and from 4.5% to 58.1% at the implant level. The overall analysis revealed a significant association between the lack of keratinized mucosa and a higher prevalence of peri-implantitis (OR = 2.78, 95% CI 2.07-3.74, p < 0.00001). Subgroup analyses with a consistent case definition of peri-implantitis (MBL ≥ 2 mm) showed similar results (OR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.41-2.73, p < 0.0001). Studies focusing on fixed prostheses only demonstrated that the lack of keratinized mucosa was associated with an increased prevalence of peri-implantitis (OR = 2.82, 95% CI 1.85-4.28, p < 0.00001). Among patients under regular implant maintenance, the absence of keratinized mucosa significantly raised the occurrence of peri-implantitis (OR = 2.08, 95% CI 1.41-3.08, p = 0.0002). Studies adjusting for other variables also confirmed a higher risk of peri-implantitis with inadequate keratinized mucosa (OR = 3.68, 95% CI 2.32-5.82, p = 0.007). Although some publication bias was observed, the certainty of evidence based on the GRADE system was judged to be "moderate." CONCLUSIONS: The lack of keratinized mucosa increased the risk of peri-implantitis, emphasizing the need to consider it during dental implant placement. Inadequate data on patient-specific factors and the predominance of cross-sectional studies influenced the evidence quality (i.e., moderate). Future studies with consistent methodologies shall confirm these findings and identify additional risk indicators to improve implant dentistry practices.

Pulpotomy versus root canal treatment in permanent teeth with spontaneous pain: comparable clinical and patient outcomes, but insufficient evidence.

DESIGN: A systematic appraisal and statistical aggregation of primary studies. DATA SOURCES: Scopus/ELSEVIER, PubMed/MEDLINE, Clarivate Analytics' Web of Science (i.e., Web of Science Core Collection-WoS, Korean Journal Database-KJD, Russian Science Citation Index-RSCI, SciELO Citation Index-SCIELO), and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) via the Cochrane Library.The complementary searches consisted of OpenGrey, Google Scholar (first 100 returns), Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations, Open Access Theses and Dissertations, DART-Europe E-theses Portal-DEEP, Opening access to UK theses-EThOS. STUDY SELECTION: Human clinical trials studies in English language with at least 10 patients with mature or immature permanent teeth with pulpitis characterized by spontaneous pain in each arm (i.e., root canal treatment [RCT] and pulpotomy) at the end of the study, comparing the patient- (Primary: survival, pain, tenderness, swelling assessed by clinical history, clinical examination, and pain scales; Secondary: tooth function, need for further intervention, adverse effects; OHRQoL using a validated questionnaire) and clinical-reported outcomes (Primary: emerging apical radiolucency as per intraoral periapical radiograph or limited FOV CBCT scan; Secondary: radiological evidence of continued root formation and presence of sinus tract). DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two independent review authors conducted study selection, data extraction and risk of bias (RoB) assessment and a third reviewer was consulted for solving disagreements. When insufficient or absent information, the corresponding author was reached out to for further explanation. The Cochrane RoB tool for randomized trials (RoB 2.0) was evaluated the quality of studies.The meta-analysis was performed on a fixed-effect model to estimate pooled effect size such as odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were performed using the R software. The quality of evidence assessed by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach (GRADEpro GDT: GRADEpro Guideline Development Tool [software], McMaster University, 2015). RESULTS: Five primary studies were included. Four studies referred to a multicentre trial assessing postoperative pain and long-term success rate after pulpotomy compared with one-visit RCT in 407 mature molars. The other study was a multicentre trial assessing postoperative pain in 550 mature molars treated with pulpotomy and pulp capping with the calcium-enriched mixture (CEM), pulpotomy and pulp capping with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and one-visit RCT. Both trials primarily reported first molars from young adults. When looking at the results of postoperative pain, all the trials included had a low RoB. However, when evaluating the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the included reports, it was determined that there was a high RoB. The meta-analysis found that the likelihood of experiencing pain (i.e., mild, moderate, or severe) at the 7th postoperative day was not affected by the type of intervention (OR = 0.99, 95% CI 0.63-1.55, I2 = 0%).The study design, risk of bias, inconsistency, indirectness, imprecision, and publication bias domains were used to grade the quality of evidence for postoperative pain between RCT and full pulpotomy, resulting in a 'High' grade. In the first year, clinical success was high for both interventions, with a rate of 98%. However, the success rate declined over time, with pulpotomy showing a 78.1% success rate and RCT showing a 75.3% success rate at the 5-year follow up. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review was limited by the inclusion of only two trials, indicating a lack of sufficient evidence to draw definitive conclusions. Nonetheless, the available clinical data suggests that patient-reported pain outcomes do not differ significantly between RCT and pulpotomy at Day 7 postoperatively, and that the long-term clinical success rate of both treatments is comparable, as demonstrated by a single randomized control trial. However, to establish a more robust evidence base, additional high-quality randomized clinical trials, conducted by diverse research groups, are needed in this field. In conclusion, this review underscores the insufficiency of current evidence to draw solid recommendations.

THE DENTAL PROFESSION EXPERIENCES HIGH PREVALENCE RATES OF BURNOUT AND EMOTIONAL EXHAUSTION.

ARTICLE TITLE AND BIBLIOGRAPHIC INFORMATION: Moro JDS, Soares JP, Massignan C, Oliveira LB, Ribeiro DM, Cardoso M, Canto GL, Bolan M. Burnout syndrome among dentists: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Evid Based Dent Pract. 2022 Sep;22(3):101,724. doi: 10.1016/j.jebdp.2022.101724. Epub 2022 Apr 2. PMID: 36162888 SOURCE OF FUNDING: University funds. TYPE OF STUDY/DESIGN: Systematic review with meta-analysis.

AUTONOMOUS ROBOTIC SURGERY SEEMS PROMISING AS AN ACCURATE TECHNOLOGY FOR SINGLE-TOOTH IMPLANT PLACEMENT IN THE ESTHETIC ZONE.

ARTICLE TITLE AND BIBLIOGRAPHIC INFORMATION: Yang S, Chen J, Li A, Deng K, Li P, Xu S. Accuracy of autonomous robotic surgery for single-tooth implant placement: a case series. J Dent. 2023;132:104451. doi:10.1016/j.jdent.2023.104451. Epub 2023 Feb 11. PMID: 36781099. SOURCE OF FUNDING: This case series study was supported by grants from the Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation, Science and Technology Projects in Guangzhou, Science Research Cultivation Program, and Clinical Research Initiation Plan of the Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, China. TYPE OF STUDY/DESIGN: Case series. No a priori power calculation or pilot data. Nonconsecutive participant recruitment.

FOR PERI-IMPLANT SOFT TISSUE AUGMENTATION, SOFT TISSUE SUBSTITUTES MAY IMPROVE PATIENTS' SURGICAL AND POSTOPERATIVE EXPERIENCE COMPARED TO AUTOGENOUS GRAFTS.

ARTICLE TITLE AND BIBLIOGRAPHIC INFORMATION: Thoma DS, Strauss FJ, Mancini L, Gasser TJW, Jung RE. Minimal invasiveness in soft tissue augmentation at dental implants: A systematic review and meta-analysis of patient-reported outcome measures. Periodontol 2000. 2022 Aug 11. doi:10.1111/prd.12465. Online ahead of print. PMID: 35950734. SOURCE OF FUNDING: Not reported. TYPE OF STUDY/DESIGN: Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Diagnostic Mock-Up as a Surgical Reduction Guide for Crown Lengthening: Technique Description and Case Report.

Background and Objectives: The report describes a technique using a diagnostic mock-up as a crown-lengthening surgical guide to improve the gingival architecture. Materials and Methods: The patient's primary concern was improving her smile due to her "gummy smile" and short clinical crowns. After clinical evaluation, surgical crown lengthening accompanied by maxillary central full-coverage single-unit prostheses and lateral incisor veneers was recommended. The diagnostic mock-up was placed in the patient's maxillary anterior region and used as a soft tissue reduction guide for the gingivectomy. Once the planned gingival architecture was achieved, a flap was reflected to proceed with ostectomy in order to obtain an appropriate alveolar bone crest level using the overlay. After six months, all-ceramic crowns and porcelain veneers were provided as permanent restorations. Results: A diagnostic mock-up fabricated with a putty guide directly from the diagnostic wax-up can be an adequate surgical guide for crown-lengthening procedures. The diagnostic wax-up was used to fabricate the diagnostic mock-up. These results suggested that it can be used as a crown-lengthening surgical guide to modify the gingival architecture. Several advantages of the overlay used in the aesthetic complex case include: (1) providing a preview of potential restorative outcomes, (2) allowing for the appropriate positioning of gingival margins and the desired alveolar bone crest level for the crown-lengthening procedure, and (3) serving as a provisional restoration after surgery. Conclusions: The use of a diagnostic mock-up, which was based on a diagnostic wax-up, as the surgical guide resulted in successful crown lengthening and provisional restorations. Thus, a diagnostic overlay can be a viable option as a surgical guide for crown lengthening.