Desenvolvimento e caracterização fisico-química de um selante resinoso com propriedades antimicrobianas associadas à incorporação do extrato do caule de Schinopsis brasiliensis (Braúna) / Development and physicochemical characterization of a resinous sealant with antimicrobial properties associated with the incorporation of Schinopsis brasiliensis (Braúna) stem extract

Introdução: os selantes resinosos possuem atividade preventiva e terapêutica da cárie dentária oclusal através da criação de uma barreira física que impede a adesão de biofilme. Não existem relatos destes materiais com propriedades antimicrobianas e, neste ensejo, a adição de princípios ativos obtidos de fitoterápicos configura como uma opção possível para resolver esta limitação. Objetivos: avaliar o potencial antimicrobiano do selante Fluroshield® enriquecido com o extrato do caule de Schinopsis brasiliensis (Braúna), bem como, a liberação do princípio ativo, grau de conversão, resistência de união imediata ao esmalte e padrão de falha dos materiais experimentais. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo experimental in vitro. As cascas da Braúna foram secas a 40 ± 1 °C e o extrato etanólico foi obtido por percolação do pó da casca da Schinopsis brasiliensis. O selante comercial Fluroshield® (Dentsply) foi enriquecido com as proporções em massa (g) [0% (Controle), 20%, 10%, 5%, 2,5% e 1,25%]. Foi realizada a avaliação da Atividade antimicrobiana, a liberação do princípio ativo foi aferida através de Ultra Cromatografia Líquida de Alta Performance (UHPLC), o grau de conversão (GC) através do Micro-Raman, a resistência de união (RU) imediata ao esmalte foi avaliada através do microcisalhamento e padrão de fratura através de análise em estereomicroscópio. Os valores finais foram submetidos aos testes de normalidade Shapiro-Wilky (p > 0,05) e Levene. Os dados paramétricos foram submetidos a análise de variância (ANOVA one-way) com pós-teste de Tukey (p <0,05) e os não paramétricos através do teste de Kruskal-Wallis com pós-teste de Dunn's através do software GraphPad Prism 8 e Microsoft Excel 2018. Resultados: materiais com maior % de extrato apresentaram menor GC, não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa para RU entre os diferentes grupos, o padrão de fratura predominante foi adesiva, houve liberação do princípio ativo em meio aquoso em todos os materiais e os grupos com 20% e 10% de extrato em massa foram capazes de inibir a formação de biofilme de maneira semelhante ao controle positivo (clorexidina 0,12%). Conclusão: a adição do extrato de Schinopsis brasiliensis em concentrações entre 10% e 20% apresenta-se como uma alternativa promissora para a obtenção de propriedades antimicrobianas em selantes resinosos (AU).

Introduction: dental sealants have a preventive and therapeutic activity in the prevention and treatment of dental caries. However, there are no reports of these materials with antimicrobial properties and the addition of phytotherapy molecules would be an option to solve this limitation. Objectives: to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of the Fluroshield™ sealant with the addition of the stem extract of Schinopsis brasiliensis (Braúna), as well as the potential for releasing the active ingredient, degree of conversion and immediate enamel bond strength. Methodology: this is an experimental in vitro study. Braúna barks were dried at 40 ± 1 °C and the ethanolic extract was obtained by percolation of Schinopsis brasiliensis bark powder. The commercial sealant Fluroshield™ was enriched with the proportions by mass (g) [0% (Control), 20%, 10%, 5%, 2.5% and 1.25%]. The evaluation of the Inhibition of Biofilm Formation was carried out, the release of the active principle was measured with Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC), the immediate bond strength (BS) to the dental tissue was evaluated with microshear and the degree of conversion (DC) with Micro-Raman. Final values were submitted to Shapiro-Wilky (p > 0.05) and Levene normality tests. Parametric data were submitted to analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) with Tukey's post-test (p <0.05) and nonparametric data through the Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn's post-test using the GraphPad Prism software 8 and Microsoft Excel 2018. Results: materials with a higher % of extract had a lower DC, there was no statistically significant difference for BS between the different groups, there was release of the active principle in all materials and groups with 20% and 10 % of extract by mass were able to inhibit biofilm formation similarly to the positive control (0.12% chlorhexidine). Conclusion: the addition of Schinopsis brasiliensis extract in concentrations between 10% and 20% is a promising alternative for obtaining antimicrobial properties in resin sealants (AU).

Effectiveness and Safety of Ozone Therapy in Dental Caries Treatment: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effectiveness and safety of ozone therapy for treating dental caries. METHODS: We searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in 8 databases, from inception to April 4, 2020 (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, LILACS, Bibliografia Brasileira de Odontologia, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO, and OpenGrey). Primary outcome measures were antimicrobial effect and adverse events. We used the Cochrane risk of bias tool to evaluate methodological quality of included RCTs and GRADE approach to evaluate the certainty of the evidence. We used the Review Manager software to conduct meta-analyses. RESULTS: We included 12 RCTs comparing ozone therapy with no ozone, chlorhexidine digluconate, fissure sealants (alone and added to ozone), and fluoride. Considering primary outcomes, ozone therapy showed (a) lower reduction in the bacterial number than chlorhexidine digluconate in children (mean difference [MD]: -5.65 [-9.79 to -1.51]), but no difference was observed in adults (MD: -0.10 [-1.07 to 0.88]); (b) higher reduction in the bacterial number than sealant (MD: 12.60 [3.86-21.34]), but no difference was observed after final excavation (MD: -0.00 [-0.01 to 0.01]). Regarding safety of ozone therapy, results from individual studies presented no adverse events during or after treatment. Most of these results are imprecise and should be interpreted with caution because of clinical and methodological concerns, small sample size, and wide confidence interval, precluding to determine the real effect direction. CONCLUSION: Based on a very low certainty of evidence, there is not enough support from published RCTs to recommend the use of ozone for the treatment of dental caries. Well-conducted studies should be encouraged, measuring mainly the antimicrobial effects of ozone therapy at long term and following the recommendations of the CONSORT statement for the reporting of RCTs.

Changes in oral health indicators due to implementation of the National Health Insurance Services coverage for first molar dental sealant for children and adolescents in South Korea.

BACKGROUND: In South Korea, dental sealant was included in the National Health Insurance Services (NHIS) coverage for the first molar for ages 6-14 in December 2009. The second molar was included in 2012, and the age of insurance coverage was extended to under 18 in 2013. This study aimed to verify the effectiveness of an NHIS dental sealant coverage policy for children and adolescents by comparing the changes in first molar oral health indicators before and after policy implementation. METHODS: The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data were analyzed; the fourth period (2007-2009) provided data for before and the sixth period (2013-2015) provided data for after policy implementation. The proportion of individuals with first-molar sealant, decay-missing-filled first molar permanent teeth, and single crowns in the group aged 11-20 years were calculated. Data were analyzed using chi-square for complex samples and the complex samples general linear model. In addition, complex-sample logistic regression analysis was performed to confirm the association between factors. RESULTS: Compared with non-beneficiaries, among policy beneficiaries, sealant ownership increased by 7.7% (from 27.8 to 35.5, P < 0.001), and the number of permanent teeth with sealant per capita increased by approximately 0.4 to 0.8 (P < 0.001). The proportion of individuals with decay-missing-filled permanent teeth decreased by 9.1% (from 68.4 to 59.3, P < 0.001), and the average decay-missing-filled permanent teeth index per person decreased by approximately 2.0 to 1.5 (P < 0.001). The rate of single-crown holders decreased by 2.7% (from 8.7 to 6.0, P > 0.05), and the average single-crown index decreased by approximately 0.11 to 0.08 per person(P > 0.05). The number of sealants increased with age and household income (P < 0.001). The mother's education level affected sealant experience (P < 0.05). The caries rate was higher in females and older respondents (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The sealant covered by NHIS contributed to decreasing dental caries in Korea. However, policies that can reduce oral health inequality should also be considered, and a follow-up study is required for long-term sealant maintenance in Korea.

Sellado marginal aplicando hipoclorito de sodio versus ácido fosfórico como acondicionador dental / Marginal sealing applying sodium hypochlorite versus phosphoric acid as dental conditioner

RESUMEN Introducción: La microfiltración es uno de los problemas principales de todas las obturaciones a base de resina. Muchos estudios buscan optimizar un buen sellado marginal utilizando diversos acondicionadores, como el hipoclorito de sodio, que permite que el adhesivo penetre bien, al generar desproteinización, y el ácido fosfórico que permite remover el barro dentinario, y así de esta manera formar una capa híbrida al colocar el adhesivo. Objetivo: Evaluar el grado de sellado marginal de la resina Bulk Fill aplicando gel de hipoclorito de sodio 10 por ciento comparado con el gel de ácido fosfórico al 37 por ciento en el acondicionamiento dental in vitro. Métodos: El universo fue de 72 dientes con cavidades clase I; se separaron en 4 grupos por muestra de 18 dientes cada uno; después de obturar se realizó el termociclaje a 500 ciclos entre 5 °C a 55 °C; luego se sumergieron en azul de metileno 2 por ciento, durante 12 h y 24 h a temperatura de 37 °C. Finalmente se evaluó el sellado marginal en el estereomicroscopio, según el ISO / TS 11405: 2015, con los criterios siguientes: grado 0 (sin microfiltración), grado 1 (microfiltración hasta esmalte), grado 2 (microfiltración hasta dentina) y grado 3 (microfiltración hasta piso pulpar). Resultados: El acondicionamiento con ácido fosfórico 37 por ciento a las 12 h presentó grado 0 (55,6 por ciento) y grado 1 (33,3 por ciento), y a las 24 h, grado 1 (55,6 por ciento). Con respecto al hipoclorito de sodio 10 por ciento a las 12 h, grado 0 (44.4 por ciento) y a las 24 h predominó grado 1 (55,6 por ciento). Para la contrastación de hipótesis en muestras relacionadas se obtuvo en ácido fosfórico 37 por ciento e hipoclorito de sodio al 10 por ciento a las 12 h y 24 h un p= 0,052 y p= 0,584, respectivamente. Para comparaciones entre muestras independientes a las 12 h y 24 h se obtuvo p= 0,462 y p= 0,406, respectivamente. Conclusiones: El gel de hipoclorito de sodio al 10 por ciento presenta similar eficacia en el sellado marginal respecto al gel de ácido fosfórico al 37 por ciento, al utilizarlo como acondicionador dental(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Microfiltration is one of the main problems of all resin sealings. Many studies aim to optimize marginal sealing using a variety of conditioners, such as sodium hypochlorite, which allows good penetration of the adhesive by generating deproteinization, and phosphoric acid, which allows removal of the dental smear layer, thus creating a hybrid layer when the adhesive is placed. Objective: Evaluate the marginal sealing degree of Bulk Fill resin applying 10 percent sodium hypochlorite gel versus 37 percent phosphoric acid gel in in vitro dental conditioning. Methods: The study universe was 72 teeth with class I cavities, divided into four groups of 18 teeth. Upon sealing, thermal cycling was performed at 500 cycles from 5 ºC to 55 ºC. Next the teeth were submerged in 2 percent methylene blue for 12 h and 24 h at a temperature of 37 ºC. Finally marginal sealing was evaluated in the stereo microscope according to ISO / TS 11405: 2015, using the following scale: grade 0 (no microfiltration), grade 1 (microfiltration as far as the enamel), grade 2 (microfiltration as far as the dentin), and grade 3 (microfiltration as far as the pulp floor). Results: Conditioning with 37 percent phosphoric acid was grade 0 (55.6 percent) and grade 1 (33.3 percent) at 12 h, and grade 1 (55.6 percent) at 24 h, whereas conditioning with 10 percent sodium hypochlorite was grade 0 (44.4%) at 12 h, and predominantly grade 1 (55.6 percent) at 24 h. Hypothesis contrast in related samples yielded 37 percent phosphoric acid and 10 percent sodium hypochlorite at 12 h and 24 h, p= 0.052 and p= 0.584, respectively. Comparison between independent samples at 12 h and 24 h yielded p= 0.462 and p= 0.406, respectively. Conclusions: The 10 percent sodium hypochlorite gel has similar marginal sealing effectiveness as the 37 percent phosphoric acid gel when used as dental conditioners(AU)

Children's Dental Sealant Use and Caries Prevalence Affected by National Health Insurance Policy Change: Evidence from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007-2015).

We evaluated the effect of the National Health Insurance (NHI) policy including dental sealant on changes in the prevalence of sealant and caries, and examined how NHI affected sealant utilization and untreated caries in children from diverse income groups in South Korea. We used a multivariate logistic regression analysis to explore the effects of three stages of dental sealant policy (pre-policy: 2007-2009, first post-policy: 2010-2012, and second post-policy: 2013-2015) on the prevalence of dental sealant and untreated caries. Participant data (N = 8161, aged 6-14 years) were derived from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007-2015). We also conducted subgroup analysis to determine the effects of the NHI policy on dental sealant and untreated caries by income level. Implementation of dental insurance coverage was associated with higher likelihood of using dental sealant (odds ratio (OR) = 1.39 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.18-1.63) for the first period and OR = 1.58 (95% CI: 1.33-1.87) for the second period) and lower odds of having untreated caries (OR = 0.79 (95% CI: 0.64-0.98) for the first period and OR = 0.65 (95% CI: 0.51-0.83) for the second period) after controlling for covariates. Results revealed that there was a greater prevalence of dental sealant and a lower prevalence of untreated caries in both middle- and low-income households compared to high-income households. The higher prevalence of dental sealant and lower untreated caries after the policy implementation. Moreover, we demonstrated children from low-or middle-income households were more associated with increasing dental sealant use and a declining prevalence of caries.

The impact of national health insurance coverage on pit and fissure sealing experience.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to review the change of supplied amount of oral pit and fissure sealing (PFS) in urban and rural areas of South Korea after including PFS into the list of treatments covered by the National Health Insurance (NHI), and to check whether there is a difference in supplied amount in areas where the dental treatment accessibility is different based on the data of the Korean National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (KNHANES). METHODS: The KNHANES data year used for 'before coverage' was 2007, and that of 'after coverage' was 2012. Data analysis was done using STATA software. RESULTS: Areas were classified as urban or rural. Reduction of out-of-pocket expenses, according to the NHI coverage PFS experience of children aged 6-14 years, increased from 28.7% before coverage to 34.9% after coverage. PFS experience of children aged 6-14 years in the urban area was increased from 29.2% before coverage to 35.6% after coverage. The increase in rural areas was from 27.2% before coverage to 31.5% after coverage. CONCLUSIONS: Although PFS supplying was increased after inclusion in NHI coverage, it is still insufficient to reduce the decayed, missing, filled teeth index effectively. To reduce inequality, supply of PFS in rural area by community oral health program should be strengthened. And also, waiving out-of-pocket money for PFS in NHI should be considered.

White Spot Lesion Remineralisation Agents in Primary Teeth: A Systematic Review.

PURPOSE: To perform a systematic review of articles related to the clinical efficacy of topical fluoride varnishes/gels, casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), and other remineralisation agents of white spot lesions (WSL) in primary teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Electronic and manual searches were conducted through diverse electronic databases. The search was limited to randomised, clinical, controlled trials, and quasi-experimental papers in full-text version. Suitable individual studies were evaluated through a previously reported quality system, their data extracted and carefully analysed. RESULTS: The search identified 298 citations, and 95 were chosen and reviewed in full text. Nine relevant citations met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in the systematic review. Pair comparisons were made between fluoride varnishes, CPP-ACP, dental lasers, and control interventions. CONCLUSIONS: Clinicians are encouraged to discuss more high-quality studies in order to provide sufficient evidence and to confirm the clinical utility of remineralisation agents of WSL in primary teeth.

Do smear-layer removal agents affect the push-out bond strength of calcium silicate-based endodontic sealers?

AIM: To evaluate the effect of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), 2.25% peracetic acid (PA) or 10% citric acid (CA) on the push-out bond strength of calcium silicate-based endodontic sealers [MTA Fillapex (Angelus, Londrina, Brazil) and Total Fill BC Sealer (FKG, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland)] to root dentine after different periods of immersion in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). AH Plus (Dentsply DeTrey, Konstaz, Germany) was used as a reference material for comparison. METHODOLOGY: Thirty human maxillary incisors were selected and three 1-mm discs were obtained from the middle third of each root. On the axial surface of each disc, three 0.8-mm-diameter holes were drilled through the dentine. After standardized irrigation, each dentine disc from the same root was treated for smear-layer removal with one of the three tested chelating solutions: EDTA, PA or CA. After that, the holes were dried with paper points and filled with one of the three test root canal sealers. The filled dental slices were further immersed in PBS solution (pH 7.2) for 7 days (T1) or 30 days (T2) at 37 °C, before the push-out assay. Friedman, Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used respectively to estimate the impact of the independent variables (solutions, sealers and period of PBS immersion) on the push-out bond strength. The level for significance was set at α = 5% and data were further subjected to a Bonferroni correction. RESULTS: Solutions and periods of immersion did not significantly influence the displacement resistance (P = 0.285, and P = 0.104, respectively) of sealers to root dentine. On the other hand, the type of sealer significantly affected the push-out bond strength (P = 0.000). AH Plus was associated with greater resistance to dislodgment compared with Total Fill BC Sealer and MTA Fillapex (P = 0.000). MTA Fillapex resulted in the lowest push-out bond strength (P = 0.000). CONCLUSION: The use of different chelating agents did not influence the push-out bond strength of endodontic sealers. Calcium silicate-based sealers had lower push-out bond strength values compared with a conventional epoxy resin-based sealer (AH Plus).

Prevention of occlusal caries using a ozone, sealant and fluoride varnish in children.

OBJECTIVES: To compare ozone with fissure sealants and fluoride varnish in the prevention of occlusal caries in permanent premolars of children in 12 months period. METHODS: A clinical trial was conducted on four groups of 10 years old schoolchildren: a group 1 - control group (n=50); a group 2 (n=21) in which fluoride varnish was applied and re-applied up to 12 months; a group 3 (n=17) in which sealant was applied and reapplied up to 12 months; and a group 4 (n=19) in which ozone was applied and re-applied up to 12 months. Percent caries reduction was studied in these initially healthy molars with complete occlusal eruption: 173 (control), 103 (varnish), 78 (sealants) and 103 (ozone) premolars met inclusion criteria. All patients were examined using DMFT index and Greene - Vermillion index at a baseline and in 6 months with a follow up period of 12 months. Each tooth was considered as the unit of the analysis. Data were analyzed using t-test and the chi-square tests. RESULTS: The prevalence of caries was: in group 1 - 3.5% (n=6), in group 2 and group 3 - 0% (n=0), in group 4 - 2.9%, (n=3). The changes in occlusal caries incidence between all groups were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The placement of fissure sealant, application of fluoride varnish, and application of ozone - are recommended to use in prevention of occlusal pit and fissure caries in permanent premolars in children. Furthermore, they are not significantly different from one another in their effectiveness.

Effect of a surface sealant on the color stability of composite resins after immersion in staining solution.

This study evaluated the influence of surface sealants on the color stability of 2 different composite resins after immersion in coffee. Four groups were created (n = 10): microhybrid composite, microhybrid with surface sealant, nanofilled composite, and nanofilled composite with surface sealant. Half of the specimens of each group were immersed in distilled water and half were immersed in coffee for 48 hours. Color was measured before and after immersion. Groups with surface sealants presented less color variation when compared with the groups without surface sealants. The nanofilled resin specimens presented the greatest color variation within the groups without sealant. The surface sealant positively influenced the color stability of composite resin specimens immersed in coffee. When surface sealant was not applied, the microhybrid specimens had better color stability than the nanofilled.

A CAMBRA Model For High Caries Risk Indian Children: A Pragmatic Comprehensive Tailored Intervention.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a CAMBRA based therapeutic and preventive model for high caries risk children in a pediatric dentistry clinic set-up. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 100 systemically healthy children aged 4-8 years with dmft/DMFT ≥ 5 and/or ≤ 20% magnitude of cariogram sector 'chance to avoid new cavities' were enrolled. The program comprised of following components i.e. caries risk assessment, customized preventive interventions (Motivational interviewing and counseling, oral prophylaxis, fluoride varnish, fissure sealants) and restorative procedures. The recall intervals were scheduled on the basis of caries risk i.e. every 1 month (≤ 40% chance to avoid new cavities) and 3 months (≥ 41% chance to avoid new cavities). The primary outcome measure was 'new carious lesions' at 12 months following achievement of 'termination levels' i.e. ≥ 41% magnitude of 'chance to avoid new cavities.' The secondary outcome measures were changes in cariogram parameters at termination and duration needed to achieve termination levels. RESULTS: The program showed 97% success rate as 3/100 subjects developed new carious lesions at 12 months follow up. Highly significant (p<0.001) favorable shift was achieved in cariogram parameters at termination. Termination levels were achieved in 2.71 ± 4.854 months. CONCLUSIONS: The present CAMBRA based program with customized intervention and recall schedules showed favorable results.

Pit and Fissure Sealant Retention Following Air Abrasion Preparation with Bioactive Glass and Aluminum Oxide Particles.

PURPOSE: Alumina air abrasion is an alternative for acid-etch technique for tooth preparation before placement of a fissure sealant. The aim of this study was to compare the retention of sealants placed subsequent to air abrasion with alumina and bioactive glass (BAG) particles. METHODS: Sixty-two 6-12 year old children were included in this study. Using a halfmouth design, the fissures were prepared using air abrasion with alumina particles on randomly assigned permanent mandibular or/and maxillary first molars on one side of the mouth (Group 1) and air abrasion with BAG on the contralateral side of the mouth (Group 2). Sealants were applied on 180 teeth, and were scored as missing, partially retained, and completely retained after three, six, nine and 12 months. Data were analyzed using Friedman and Wilcoxon tests (α=0.05). RESULTS: Sealant retention rates in the alumina group were higher than those in the BAG group at all time periods (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Sealant retention after air abrasion with alumina particles was higher than BAG over 12 months.

Consideraciones metodológicas sobre el estudio de la adaptación del cemento sellador a las paredes del conducto: comparación entre el microscopio electrónico de barrido y el confocal láser / Methodological considerations on the study of endodontic sealer adaptation to root canal walls: comparison between scanning electronic and laser confocal microscopes

Objetivo: Evaluar la correlación entre las observaciones con el microscopio electrónico de barrido (MEB) y con el microscopio confocal láser (MCL) para el estudio de la adaptación a las paredes del conducto de TopSeal. Material y métodos: Diez dientes unirradiculares fueron instrumentados con el sistema de limas rotatorias MTwo hasta el 35/.04. Se irrigó con 5 ml de NaOCl (5,25%) entre limas y con 5 ml de EDTA (17%) como irrigante final. La obturación se realizó con condensación lateral utilizando conos de gutapercha y cemento TopSeal marcado con un fluorocromo. Se obtuvieron secciones transversales a 3, 5 y 8 milímetros del ápice, que fueron analizadas con MCL y luego metalizadas y observadas con MEB. Se estableció el grado de adaptación al perímetro del conducto en cada sección con ambos procedimientos. En el análisis estadístico se utilizaron el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson para la evaluación de la interfase cemento-dentina entre ambos métodos y el ANOVA para el análisis de la penetración intratubular del cemento evaluada con MCL. Resultados: El coeficiente de correlación de Pearson fue de 0,75 (p = 0,001) para los porcentajes medios de adaptación. Medias: MCL 71,40 y MEB 83,67. Los coeficientes para los tercios apical, medio y coronal fueron 0,940, 0,772 y 0,877 respectivamente, en todos los casos significativos. Respecto a la penetración del cemento sellador, no se encontraron diferencias significativas en los niveles estudiados. Conclusiones: Ambas técnicas microscópicas son complementarias, mientras que el MEB proporciona mayor seguridad en el estudio de la interfase, el MCL permite analizar la penetración intratubular del material

Aim: To compare two different microscopic techniques (SEM and CLSM) in studying filling materials adaptation to canal walls. Material and Methods: Ten sound extracted single-rooted teeth were selected, instrumented and filled with gutta-percha and TopSeal using lateral condensation technique. Following root filling, teeth were sectioned transversally at 3, 5 and 8 mm from the apex and analyzed using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope and Scanning Electronic Microscope. Percentage of root canal perimeter with sealer penetration to the dentinal tubules and depth of penetration were compared between groups and statistically analyzed using a Pearson correlation analysis (p=0.001) and ANOVA test for intratubular penetration. Pearson’s correlation coefficient for the whole sample was 0.75 (p=0.001). Results: When comparing sealer adaptation to dentinal walls between thirds, apical medium and coronal, mean values were statistically significant: 0.940, 0.772 and 0.877 respectively. For intratubular penetration no significant difference between root canal thirds was found. Conclusions: Both techniques are complementary in the study of endodontic filling materials performance inside root Canals

Pediatric Dentist Density and Preventive Care Utilization for Medicaid Children.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate county-level pediatric dentist density and dental care utilization for Medicaid-enrolled children. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional analysis of 604,885 zero- to 17-year-olds enrolled in the Washington State Medicaid Program for 11-12 months in 2012. The relationship between county-level pediatric dentist density, defined as the number of pediatric dentists per 10,000 Medicaid-enrolled children, and preventive dental care utilization was evaluated using linear regression models. RESULTS: In 2012, 179 pediatric dentists practiced in 16 of the 39 counties in Washington. County-level pediatric dentist density varied from zero to 5.98 pediatric dentists per 10,000 Medicaid-enrolled children. County-level preventive dental care utilization ranged from 32 percent to 81 percent, with 62 percent of Medicaid-enrolled children utilizing preventive dental services. County-level density was significantly associated with county-level dental care utilization (Slope equals 1.67, 95 percent confidence interval equals 0.02, 3.32, P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: There is a significant relationship between pediatric dentist density and the proportion of Medicaid-enrolled children who utilize preventive dental care services. Policies aimed at improving pediatric oral health disparities should include strategies to increase the number of oral health care providers, including pediatric dentists, in geographic areas with large proportions of Medicaid-enrolled children.

Effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit of a single annual professional intervention for the prevention of childhood dental caries in a remote rural Indigenous community.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study is to reduce the high prevalence of tooth decay in children in a remote, rural Indigenous community in Australia, by application of a single annual dental preventive intervention. The study seeks to (1) assess the effectiveness of an annual oral health preventive intervention in slowing the incidence of dental caries in children in this community, (2) identify the mediating role of known risk factors for dental caries and (3) assess the cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit of the intervention. METHODS/DESIGN: The intervention is novel in that most dental preventive interventions require regular re-application, which is not possible in resource constrained communities. While tooth decay is preventable, self-care and healthy habits are lacking in these communities, placing more emphasis on health services to deliver an effective dental preventive intervention. Importantly, the study will assess cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness for broader implementation across similar communities in Australia and internationally. DISCUSSION: There is an urgent need to reduce the burden of dental decay in these communities, by implementing effective, cost-effective, feasible and sustainable dental prevention programs. Expected outcomes of this study include improved oral and general health of children within the community; an understanding of the costs associated with the intervention provided, and its comparison with the costs of allowing new lesions to develop, with associated treatment costs. Findings should be generalisable to similar communities around the world. The research is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR), registration number ACTRN12615000693527; date of registration: 3rd July 2015.

Effect of Family Income on the Relationship Between Parental Education and Sealant Prevalence, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2005-2010.

INTRODUCTION: We examined the association between sealant prevalence and parental education for different levels of family income, controlling for other covariates. METHODS: We combined data from 2005-2006, 2007-2008, and 2009-2010 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The study sample was 7,090 participants aged 6 to 19 years. Explanatory variables, chosen on the basis of Andersen and Aday's framework of health care utilization, were predisposing variables - child's age, sex, race/ethnicity, and parental education (high school diploma); enabling variables - family income (<100% of the federal poverty level [FPL]; 100%-200% of the FPL; and >200% of the FPL), health insurance status, and regular source of medical care; and a need variable - future need for care (perceived child health status is excellent/very good, good, fair/poor). We conducted bivariate and multivariate analyses and included a term for interaction between education and income in the multivariate model. We report significant findings (P ≤ .05). RESULTS: Sealant prevalence was associated with all explanatory variables in bivariate and multivariate analyses. In bivariate analyses, higher parental education and family income were independently associated with higher sealant prevalence. In the multivariate analysis, higher parental education was associated with sealant prevalence among higher income children, but not among low-income children (<100% FPL). Sealant prevalence was higher among children with parental education greater than a high school diploma versus less than a high school diploma in families with income ≥100% FPL. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that income modifies the association of parental education on sealant prevalence. Recognition of this relationship may be important for health promotion efforts.

Remineralization Capacity of Three Fissure Sealants with and without Gaseous Ozone on Non-Cavitated Incipient Pit and Fissure Caries.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the remineralization activation of the application of three fissure sealants (FSs), alone or with gaseous ozone (GO), on non-cavitated initial caries and evaluate the clinical success of FS. STUDY DESIGN: Sixty children who had DIAGNOdent scores between 10-30 on bilateral symmetric mandibular first permanent molars were included in study. In a split-mouth design, teeth were assigned to experimental (with GO) and control (without GO) groups. GO was applied to teeth on one side and then the same brand of randomly selected FSs was applied to the teeth on both sides. Children were divided into 3 groups based on type of FS (Group 1: Aegis {Bosworth Co, North Hamlin Avenue Skokie, Illinois, USA}, Group 2: Fuji Triage {GC, Tokyo, Japan}, Group 3: Helioseal {Ivoclar Vivadent, Liechtenstein, Germany}). All FSs were then examined for retention rates at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months; at the end of 12 months, all FSs were removed with an air-abrasion device and DIAGNOdent scores noted to compare with the initial values. RESULTS: The application of GO with either Fuji Triage or Aegis FS was effective on remineralization (p<0.05); however, the application of Helioseal FSs was not effective (p>0.05). The 1(st) and 12(th) months' full retention rates of Fuji Triage FSs was a significant difference (p<0.05) from other FSs (Aegis and Helioseal) (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: GO+Aegis FS showed the highest remineralization; and, at the end of 12 months, its clinical success was higher than other FSs.

Antibacterial Properties Associated with Chitosan Nanoparticle Treatment on Root Dentin and 2 Types of Endodontic Sealers.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) and chitosan nanoparticles (CNps) to inactivate bacteria and prevent biofilm formation at sealer-dentin interfaces. METHODS: The study was divided into 3 stages: first stage, the experiment was conducted to analyze the antibacterial properties of CMCS in different formulations against biofilms; second stage, direct-contact and membrane-restricted methods were used to evaluate the antibacterial properties of an epoxy resin (ThermaSeal Plus; Dentsply Tulsa Dental, Tulsa, OK) and calcium silicate (MTA Fillapex; Angelus SA, Londrina, PR, Brazil) based-sealers with or without CNps; and third stage, biofilm formation at the sealer dentin interfaces of root dentin treated with CMCS and filled with gutta-percha and CNp incorporated sealer were analyzed after 1- and 4-week aging periods. The samples were treated and filled as follows: (1) distilled water: unaltered sealer (control group), (2) CMCS: sealer+CNps (CMCS group), and (3) CMCS/rose bengal: sealer+CNps (CMCS/RB group). Enterococcus faecalis was used to infect all the samples. Microbiological and microscopic analyses were used to assess the antibacterial characteristics. RESULTS: CMCS-based treatments effectively killed bacteria adherent on root dentin (P < .05). The addition of CNps to ThermaSeal enhanced its antibacterial ability by direct-contact and membrane-restricted tests (P < .05). The CNp incorporation significantly increased the antibacterial efficacy of root canal sealers even after a 4-week aging time (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: This study highlighted the ability of CMCS to disinfect root canal dentin and inhibit bacterial adhesion. CNps in root canal sealers are capable of maintaining their antibacterial activity even after prolonged aging.

Inhibition of enamel mineral loss by fissure sealant: an in situ study.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the effect of fluoride and non-fluoride sealants on hardness decrease (HD) and marginal adaptation (MA) on enamel substrates after cariogenic challenge. METHODS: Occlusal enamel blocks, from human third molars, were randomly divided into six groups (n=12), according to occlusal fissures condition (S - sound; C - caries-like lesion; CF - caries-like lesion+topical fluoride) and sealants (F - FluroShield; H - Helioseal Clear Chroma). Lesion depths were 79.3±33.9 and 61.3±23.9 for C and CF groups, respectively. Sealants were placed on occlusal surface and stored at 100% humidity (37°C; 24h/d). HD was measured by cross-sectional microhardness analysis at the sealant margin distances: -1 (under sealant), 0 (sealant margin), 1, 2 (outer sealant). Sealant MA was observed by polarized light microscopy and scored according to: 0 - failure (no sealant MA or total sealant loss); 1 - success (sealant MA present). MA and HD were analysed by ANOVA-R and mixed model analysis, respectively. RESULTS: For HD (ΔS), F values (6900.5±3686.6) were significantly lower than H values (8534.6±5375.3) regardless of enamel substrates and sealant margin distances. Significant differences were observed among sealant margin distances: -1 (5934.0±3282.6)<0 (8701.5±6175.7)=1 (8473.2±4299.4)=2 (7761.5±4035.1), regardless of sealant and substrate. MA was similar for all groups (p≥0.05). CONCLUSION: MA was not affected by sealant type or substrate condition, whereas enamel HD was favourably impacted by fluoride in the sealant. In addition, sealants were more effective as a physical barrier than as its chemical potency in reducing enamel HD. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Sealing with a fluoride material is a recommended procedure to prevent caries of occlusal permanent molars in high-caries-risk patients, even though those exhibiting white spot lesions, since the enamel hardness decrease when fluoride sealant was used in vitro.

Efetividade do selamento de fossas e fissuras na prevenção da doença cárie: análise crítica da literatura / Effectiveness of the sealing of pits and fissures in the prevention of caries in permanent molars of children: analysis of literature

Introdução: A cárie dentária ainda está entre as doenças mais prevalentes entre todas as agressões à saúde humana, constituindo-se em um grave problema de saúde pública no mundo. Acredita-se que, para reverter este quadro, a implementação de cuidados básicos, enfatizando a promoção e a prevenção da saúde bucal aos grupos mais vulneráveis pode melhorar a qualidade de vida da população, diminuindo a polarização da doença. Dessa forma, medidas preventivas que minimizem a instalação e a progressão da doença cárie em superfícies oclusais são essenciais. Objetivo: o propósito deste trabalho foi conduzir uma análise crítica da literatura para discutir as principais evidências científicas a respeito da indicação de selantes resinosos e ionoméricos para a prevenção de cárie oclusal, em primeiros molares permanentes. Revisão de Literatura: nesta revisão, discutiram-se as principais evidências de ensaios clínicos randomizados e não randomizados, e de revisões sistemáticas e metanálises realizadas com o intuito de esclarecer a efetividade dos selantes resinosos e ionoméricos em relação à prevenção da doença cárie. Conclusão: com base na análise das evidências disponíveis, o efeito de proteção à cárie dos selantes resinosos parece não ser significativamente diferente dos selantes ionoméricos.

Introduction: Dental caries is still among the most prevalent of all attacks on human health, thus becoming a serious public health problem worldwide. It is believed that to change this situation, the implementation of primary care emphasizing prevention and promotion of oral health to vulnerable groups can improve the quality of life, decreasing the polarization of the disease. Thus, preventive measures to minimize the onset and progression of caries in occlusal surfaces are essential. Objective: the purpose of this study was to conduct a review of the literature to discuss the key scientific evidence regarding the indication and ionomeric resin sealants to prevent occlusal caries in first permanent molars. Literature Review: this review discussed the principal evidence from randomized clinical trials and not randomized, and systematic reviews and meta-analysis carried out in order to clarify the effectiveness of sealants and ionomeric resin inrelation to the prevention of dental caries. Conclusion: based on available evidence, the protective effect of sealing resin to tooth seems to be not significantly different from ionomeric sealants.