Comparison of mechanical properties of 3D printer resins for occlusal splints using different models of 3D printers.

Background: Considering the development of new 3D printing technologies that use different printing techniques, further studies must be conducted to evaluate the impact of different printing systems on the mechanical properties of 3D-printed materials. This study aimed to evaluate the mechanical properties of 3D-printed materials for occlusal devices using different 3D printers and printing layer thicknesses. Material and Methods: Ninety rectangular samples were manufactured and divided into nine groups according to the 3D printer model they were printed on (AnyCubic Mono X, Elegoo Mars 2, or FlashForge Hunter) and the layer thickness (20, 50, or 100 µm) and were subjected to superficial microhardness, flexural resistance, and elasticity modulus tests. The results were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance and Tukey's statistical tests, with a significance level of 5%. Results: The type of 3D printer significantly affected superficial microhardness (p = 0.007). Flexural strength showed a significant interaction between the 3D printer and layer thickness (p = 0.005), with both factors independently influencing flexural strength (printer: p< 0.001, layer thickness: p< 0.001). Elasticity modulus was significantly influenced by the 3D printer type (p< 0.001) and the interaction between both factors (p = 0.004). The AnyCubic Mono X 3D printer with a 20 µm layer thickness exhibited more consistent mechanical properties than the other printers. Conclusions: Variations in printing systems and layer thicknesses can impact the mechanical properties of 3D-printed materials. Key words:CAD-CAM. Bruxism. Temporomandibular disorders. Mechanical tests; 3-D printing.Care Team.

Quo vadis, esthetic dentistry? Part II: Composite resin overtreatment and social media appeal.

OBJECTIVES: This article presents case reports highlighting over-treatments with resin composites, often misconceived as minimally invasive procedures. CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS: Tooth-colored restorative materials, such as ceramics and composites, have found widespread application to correct problems related to tooth color, shape, and alignment. When composite resin is used, these procedures can be done in a very conservative, cost-effective, and timely fashion. However, it is noteworthy that contemporary dental esthetic expectations are based on standards propagated by social media and other marketing and communications platforms. The abuse of and addiction to social media impacts can lead to unrealistic esthetic expectations and standards for both patients and dentists. CONCLUSIONS: After a critical discussion on ceramic veneers published in part I of this 2-part series, this article directs attention towards what has become a trendy fashion, i.e., the use of direct composite resins as "non-prep" veneers in clinical situations that arguably required no restorative intervention at all. We further explore how social media influences the decision-making processes of both professionals and patients.

Influence of the combined effect of desensitizing dentifrices and universal adhesives on dentin bond strength under erosive conditions.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate whether the use of desensitizing dentifrices containing obliterating agents can affect bond strength of eroded/abraded dentin. METHODOLOGY: A total of 100 dentin samples were obtained from human molars. The teeth were cut into 3 mm-thickness discs and allocated in five groups (n=20), according to the toothpaste used: WoF - abrasion with fluoride-free toothpaste (Cocoricó); Arg - toothpaste containing arginine (Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief); Nov - calcium sodium phosphosilicate toothpaste (Sensodyne Repair and Protect); SnF - fluoride-containing toothpaste (AmF/SnCl2/SnF2 - Elmex Erosion); and Control (no erosive/abrasive process). The erosive/abrasive cycle consisted of immersion in citric acid (1%, pH 2.6, 5 min, 4×/day) and abrasion (2×/day, 120-20 sec abrasion, 100 sec immersion) with each toothpaste. During intervals, samples were immersed in artificial saliva. This cycle was performed for five days. Two resin cylinders (2 mm in diameter) were constructed on each sample for the shear bond strength test using a universal adhesive system. The self-etch and etch-and-rinse (Scotchbond Universal) strategies were employed, each in half of the total sample (n=10). Bond strength (MPa) was measured in a shear test and failure modes were assessed with a stereomicroscope. Statistical analysis was performed using the two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey tests (p<0.05). RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was found between the adhesive strategies tested (p<0.001), with the self-etching form showing higher values than the etch-and-rinse. Moreover, no significant differences were observed between the tested toothpastes (p=0.750) and interactions (p=0.438). CONCLUSION: The use of toothpaste containing obliterating agents does not affect bond strength to dentin subjected to erosive/abrasive conditions when a universal adhesive is used. However, the self-etch strategy might be preferred for eroded/abraded dentin.

Subjective versus objective, polymer bur-based selective carious tissue removal: 2-year randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to compare subjective (S) selective carious tissue removal using hand instruments versus objective (O) removal using a self-limiting polymer bur in a single-blind cluster-randomized controlled superiority trial. METHODS: 115 children (aged 7-8 years) with ≥1 vital primary molar with a deep dentin lesion (>1/2 dentin depth) were included and randomized (60 S/55 O); all eligible molars in a child were treated identically (91 S/86 O). Cavities were prepared and carious tissue on pulpal walls selectively removed using hand instruments (S) or a self-limiting polymer bur (Polybur P1, Komet), followed by restoration using a glass hybrid material (Equia Forte, GC). Treatment time and satisfaction data have been reported in a 1-year-interim report. We here report on 2 year survival (tooth retained with or without further retreatments being needed, or tooth exfoliated), analyzed using multi-level Cox-regression analysis, as well as success (ART criteria 0/1, no pulpal complications, no re-intervention needed, or tooth extraction). RESULTS: 71 restorations in S and 65 in O were examined after a mean (SD, range) of 22 (11; 3-31) months, of which 50 S and 48 O restorations were successful and 70 S and 65 O survived. The majority of failures were restorative, not pulpal, and distribution of ART codes was not significant different between groups. Risk of failure was not significantly associated with the removal protocol (HR; 95 % CI: 0.95; 0.51-1.78), and also not age, sex or dental arch, while single surfaced restorations showed significantly lower hazard (0.14; 0.06-0.37). CONCLUSION: There was no significant difference in success or survival between objective and subjective carious tissue removal. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: In primary teeth, subjective selective excavation had no disadvantage compared with objective excavation, which required a separate instrument (polymer-based bur) for carious tissue removal. Polymer-based burs may be particularly useful when standardized excavation is needed.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practice of dentists on Minimal Intervention Dentistry: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) of dentists on Minimal Intervention Dentistry (MID). DATA: Cross-sectional studies that analyzed KAP outcomes on MID principles were included. SOURCES: Eight databases (Cochrane, DOSS, Embase, LILACS, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) and the gray literature were searched on January 2022. STUDY SELECTION: Two independent reviewers selected the included studies, initially by screening titles and abstracts and, finally, by full-text reading. The methodological quality of studies was assessed by using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Assessment Checklist for Prevalence Studies. Proportion meta-analysis was conducted using a random effect model for data analysis. Cochran's Q test was used to assess the heterogeneity and the I² statistic for evaluation of true variation due to heterogeneity. RESULTS: Of 2079 studies initially identified, twelve were included in the systematic review. Twenty-four statements about MID were included in the meta-analysis, based on data from ten studies (n = 1728 participants). The pooled proportion of knowledge on MID was 75.66% (95%CI: 69.33 - 81.48; p < 0.01; I²: 97%; Tau2: 0.0456) and of attitudes and practice was 47.95% (95%CI: 38.55-57.43; p < 0.01; I²: 98%; Tau2: 0.0743). The higher prevalences rates were in the "knowledge" field, and the lowest was in "attitudes and practice". CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that the knowledge of dentists on MID topics is acceptable, and the attitudes and practices need improvements. The studies lacked uniformity in methods and there is still a need for more studies to elucidate the KAP of dentists worldwide. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Understanding the cognizance and the way oral healthcare professionals are treating dental caries is the first step to expanding the minimal intervention evidence into a dental practice. The final goal is to change the practice and make Minimal Intervention Dentistry the standard of care for dental caries worldwide. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42021257518.

Disocclusion guides in occlusal splints on temporomandibular disorders and sleep bruxism: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the best disocclusion guidance in occlusal splints (OSs) to manage and treat temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and sleep bruxism (SB). STUDY DESIGN: The research was conducted on 7 major electronic databases and 3 gray literature sources. We included randomized trials, nonrandomized clinical trials, and before-and-after studies. The risk of bias (RoB) was assessed by Joanna Briggs Institute of Critical Appraisal Tools. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to grade the certainty of evidence. RESULTS: Qualitative synthesis included 16 surveys reporting data from 620 participants. Canine guidance (CG) was widely searched. Bilateral balanced occlusion (BBO) and CG significantly decreased pain levels compared with the placebo splint. Comparing between OS and absence of therapy, only CG was assessed and showed significant improvements on mouth opening, pain, sleep quality, and muscle activity. When compared different guide types among themselves, no significant improvement was founded in any evaluated outcome. Three studies presented high RoB, 7 presented moderate RoB, and 6 presented low RoB. CONCLUSIONS: It is suggested there is not enough evidence to support that there are any specific kind of guidance responsible for improving evaluated outcomes on TMD and SB.

Influence of the combined effect of desensitizing dentifrices and universal adhesives on dentin bond strength under erosive conditions

Abstract Objective This study aimed to evaluate whether the use of desensitizing dentifrices containing obliterating agents can affect bond strength of eroded/abraded dentin. Methodology A total of 100 dentin samples were obtained from human molars. The teeth were cut into 3 mm-thickness discs and allocated in five groups (n=20), according to the toothpaste used: WoF - abrasion with fluoride-free toothpaste (Cocoricó); Arg - toothpaste containing arginine (Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief); Nov - calcium sodium phosphosilicate toothpaste (Sensodyne Repair and Protect); SnF - fluoride-containing toothpaste (AmF/SnCl2/SnF2 - Elmex Erosion); and Control (no erosive/abrasive process). The erosive/abrasive cycle consisted of immersion in citric acid (1%, pH 2.6, 5 min, 4×/day) and abrasion (2×/day, 120-20 sec abrasion, 100 sec immersion) with each toothpaste. During intervals, samples were immersed in artificial saliva. This cycle was performed for five days. Two resin cylinders (2 mm in diameter) were constructed on each sample for the shear bond strength test using a universal adhesive system. The self-etch and etch-and-rinse (Scotchbond Universal) strategies were employed, each in half of the total sample (n=10). Bond strength (MPa) was measured in a shear test and failure modes were assessed with a stereomicroscope. Statistical analysis was performed using the two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey tests (p<0.05). Results A statistically significant difference was found between the adhesive strategies tested (p<0.001), with the self-etching form showing higher values than the etch-and-rinse. Moreover, no significant differences were observed between the tested toothpastes (p=0.750) and interactions (p=0.438). Conclusion The use of toothpaste containing obliterating agents does not affect bond strength to dentin subjected to erosive/abrasive conditions when a universal adhesive is used. However, the self-etch strategy might be preferred for eroded/abraded dentin.

Manejo de cárie radicular: um guia para o dentista brasileiro baseado na tradução e adaptação cultural do consenso internacional/ORCA E EFCD / Management of root caries: a guide for the Brazilian dentist based on the translation and cultural adaptation of the international consensus/ORCA and EFCD

Objetivo: A cárie radicular é um problema da Odontologia moderna, porém é notável a falta de diretrizes sobre o seu manejo. Objetivamos elaborar e adaptar um guia a partir da tradução das recomendações do consenso in-ternacional European Organization for Caries Research (ORCA) e European Federation of Conservative Dentistry (EFCD) para as tomadas de decisão clínica na intervenção do processo de cárie na pessoa idosa, com foco na cárie radicular. Materiais e métodos: O protocolo de tradução das recomendações do consenso internacional consistiu nas etapas: (1) tradução inicial, (2) síntese da tradução, (3) retradução, (4) revisão por comitê de especialistas, com adaptação cultural. A partir da tradução, foi desenvolvido um guia com diretrizes para tratamento de cárie radicular no Brasil. Resultados: Para prevenção de novas lesões é recomendada a escovação diária com dentifrício >1.500ppm/F. Dentifrícios com 5.000ppm/F ou vernizes (>20.000ppm/F) podem ser indicados para paralisar lesões radiculares ativas e para prevenção em pessoas idosas com alta suscetibilidade à cárie radicular, e o Diamino Fluoreto de Prata (>30%) para paralisar lesões ativas. Intervenções invasi-vas diretas são indicadas dependendo da situação clínica. Discussão: Nota-se uma falta de interesse em estudos primários sobre tratamentos para cárie radicular, criando assim uma lacuna em relação ao seu manejo, que reflete no nível de evidência detectado pelo consenso. Conclusão: Guias clíni-cos são importantes para reduzir a lacuna entre a pesquisa e a prática clínica. Essa tradução para o português facilitará o acesso dos dentistas bra-sileiros em relação a evidência consolidada até o momento para o manejo de cárie radicular.

Aim: Root caries are a problem in modern dentistry, but the lack of guidelines regarding their management is notable. We aim to develop and adapt a guide based on the translation of the recommendations of the international consensus as outlined by the European Organization for Caries Research (ORCA) and the European Federation of Conservative Dentistry (EFCD) for clinical decision-making in the intervention of the caries process in the elderly, with a focus on root caries. Materials and methods: The protocol for translating the recommendations of the international consensus consisted of the following steps: (1) initial translation, (2) synthesis of the translation, (3) back-translation, (4) review by an expert committee with cultural adaptation. Based on the translation, a guide was developed with guidelines for the treatment of root caries in Brazil. Results: To prevent new lesions, daily brushing with toothpaste >1,500ppm/F is recommended. Toothpaste with 5,000ppm/F or varnishes (>20,000ppm/F) may be recommended to paralyze active root lesions and for prevention in elderly people with high susceptibility to root caries, and Silver Diamine Fluoride (>30%) to paralyze active lesions. Direct invasive interventions are indicated depending on the clinical situation. Discussion: There is a lack of interest in primary studies on treatments for root caries, thus creating a gap in relation to its management, which is reflected by the level of evidence detected in the consensus. Conclusion: Clinical guidelines are important to reduce the gap between research and clinical practice. This translation into Portuguese will facilitate access by Brazilian dentists to the consolidated evidence gathered to date for the management of root caries.

Impact of dental treatment on the oral health-related quality of life of Brazilian schoolchildren.

This before-after experimental study evaluated the impact of dental treatment on the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in children aged 6-8 years from Paranoá, DF, considering the presence or absence of cavitated dentin carious lesions pre- and post-treatment. The responsiveness and sensitivity of the questionnaires were also investigated. Caries was detected by using the Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) instrument, while the impact of oral health on the children's health-related quality of life was assessed using the Brazilian version of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ8-10), which was completed by the children and the Brazilian version of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (B-ECOHIS), which was completed by their parents. Sociodemographic characteristics were also assessed. After the examinations, the children were categorized into two groups according to the presence (treatment/n = 34) or absence (control/n = 34) of cavitated dentin carious lesions. Restorative/curative care was provided to the treatment group, while the control group received preventive measures. OHRQoL was assessed at baseline and at four weeks post-treatment. No significant sociodemographic differences were observed between the groups. In the treatment group, the children and their families reported a greater impact of oral health on their OHRQoL in both questionnaires (p < 0.05). However, there was a significant reduction in the impact of oral health, with differences between the pre-treatment and post-treatment phases (p = 0.001). Good sensitivity and responsiveness were observed for both questionnaires. Dental treatment was found to reduce the negative impact of dental caries on OHRQoL in 6-8-year-old children, which was detected by both questionnaires (B-ECOHIS and CPQ8-10).

Is there an association between dental caries, fluorosis, and molar-incisor hypomineralization?

OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of dental caries, dental fluorosis, and molar-incisor hypomineralization, and their associations in a group of Brazilian schoolchildren. METHODOLOGY: Adolescents (n=411) were evaluated by two calibrated examiners for dental caries (DC), dental fluorosis (DF), and molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) using the CAST (Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment) instrument, Thylstrup and Fejerskov (TF) index, and MIH Severity Scoring System (MIH-SSS), respectively. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The sample comprised 42.75% boys and 57.25% girls. The prevalence of DC in permanent dentition was 94.75%, of which 29% were represented by dentin lesions. For DF, a prevalence of 40.75% was observed, with 69.32% mild, 12.88% moderate, and 17.79% severe. A positive association between the source of water and fluorosis was detected (p=0.01). The prevalence of MIH was 18%. Thirty adolescents (41.7%) presented with severe MIH. No association was found between DF or MIH and dentin DC or between MIH and DF at the individual level. However, a significant negative relationship was detected between DF and dentin carious lesions ( p <0.005) and DF and MIH ( p <0.00001) at the tooth level, whereas a positive association was observed between MIH and dentin carious lesions ( p <0.00001). A positive association was also observed between the severity of both conditions ( p <0.00001). Mild DF was the most prevalent problem observed. Cases of teeth with mild MIH were the most predominant in MIH-affected teeth. CONCLUSIONS: No association was observed among the dentin carious lesions, MIH, and DF at the participant level. However, a positive association between MIH and dentin carious lesions was found at the tooth level, whereas MIH, DF, and DF and dentin carious lesions showed a negative relationship.

Hydroxy acids for adhesion to enamel and dentin: Long-term bonding performance and effect on dentin biostability.

OBJECTIVES: To test the demineralization potential, bonding performance, and dentin biostability when using hydroxy acids for etching enamel and dentin. METHODS: Surface microhardness, roughness and depth of demineralization were investigated after etching enamel and dentin with 35 % glycolic acid (Gly), tartaric acid (Ta), gluconic acid (Glu), gluconolactone (Gln), or phosphoric acid (Pa) (n = 5/group). Dentin microtensile bond strength (µTBS) after 24 h or 1 year of bonding (n = 8 teeth/group) and enamel shear bond strength (SBS) after 24 h (n = 10 teeth/group) were obtained. In dentin, failure mode was classified as adhesive, cohesive in dentin/resin, or mixed. Dentin biostability was assessed by loss of dry weight and collagen degradation after 30-day incubation (n = 10 beams/group). Statistical analysis consisted of ANOVA with post-hoc Tukey's HSD, Tukey-Kramer test, Bonferroni correction, and Fisher's exact tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Gly showed better or similar results than Pa for enamel microhardness and dentin roughness, while no significant differences were observed among Ta, Glu, and Gln (p > .05). Hydroxy acids produced significantly shallower demineralization than Pa (p < .05). Gln resulted in the lowest SBS and µTBS, while Gly, Glu, Ta, and Pa showed no significant difference. There was no significant difference in µTBS between 24 h and 1 year of storage. The association between failure mode and etchant was statistically significant after 24 h only (p < .001). Hydroxy acids resulted in higher dentin biostability than Pa (p < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Gly, Glu and Ta resulted in adequate bonding performance and reduced dentin degradation and are potential alternative etchants to improve long-term stability of adhesive restorations. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This study supports the potential use of hydroxy acids as alternative etchants when bonding to enamel and dentin and demonstrates that specific acids are more suitable to be used in adhesion since they result in appropriate bond strength and less dentin degradation.

Impact of dental treatment on the oral health-related quality of life of Brazilian schoolchildren

Abstract: This before-after experimental study evaluated the impact of dental treatment on the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in children aged 6-8 years from Paranoá, DF, considering the presence or absence of cavitated dentin carious lesions pre- and post-treatment. The responsiveness and sensitivity of the questionnaires were also investigated. Caries was detected by using the Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) instrument, while the impact of oral health on the children's health-related quality of life was assessed using the Brazilian version of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ8-10), which was completed by the children and the Brazilian version of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (B-ECOHIS), which was completed by their parents. Sociodemographic characteristics were also assessed. After the examinations, the children were categorized into two groups according to the presence (treatment/n = 34) or absence (control/n = 34) of cavitated dentin carious lesions. Restorative/curative care was provided to the treatment group, while the control group received preventive measures. OHRQoL was assessed at baseline and at four weeks post-treatment. No significant sociodemographic differences were observed between the groups. In the treatment group, the children and their families reported a greater impact of oral health on their OHRQoL in both questionnaires (p < 0.05). However, there was a significant reduction in the impact of oral health, with differences between the pre-treatment and post-treatment phases (p = 0.001). Good sensitivity and responsiveness were observed for both questionnaires. Dental treatment was found to reduce the negative impact of dental caries on OHRQoL in 6-8-year-old children, which was detected by both questionnaires (B-ECOHIS and CPQ8-10).

Is there an association between dental caries, fluorosis, and molar-incisor hypomineralization?

Abstract Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of dental caries, dental fluorosis, and molar-incisor hypomineralization, and their associations in a group of Brazilian schoolchildren. Methodology: Adolescents (n=411) were evaluated by two calibrated examiners for dental caries (DC), dental fluorosis (DF), and molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) using the CAST (Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment) instrument, Thylstrup and Fejerskov (TF) index, and MIH Severity Scoring System (MIH-SSS), respectively. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. Results: The sample comprised 42.75% boys and 57.25% girls. The prevalence of DC in permanent dentition was 94.75%, of which 29% were represented by dentin lesions. For DF, a prevalence of 40.75% was observed, with 69.32% mild, 12.88% moderate, and 17.79% severe. A positive association between the source of water and fluorosis was detected (p=0.01). The prevalence of MIH was 18%. Thirty adolescents (41.7%) presented with severe MIH. No association was found between DF or MIH and dentin DC or between MIH and DF at the individual level. However, a significant negative relationship was detected between DF and dentin carious lesions ( p <0.005) and DF and MIH ( p <0.00001) at the tooth level, whereas a positive association was observed between MIH and dentin carious lesions ( p <0.00001). A positive association was also observed between the severity of both conditions ( p <0.00001). Mild DF was the most prevalent problem observed. Cases of teeth with mild MIH were the most predominant in MIH-affected teeth. Conclusions: No association was observed among the dentin carious lesions, MIH, and DF at the participant level. However, a positive association between MIH and dentin carious lesions was found at the tooth level, whereas MIH, DF, and DF and dentin carious lesions showed a negative relationship.

Are Brazilian dentists and dental students using the ICCC recommendations for caries management?

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether dentists and dental undergraduate students know the terminology of the International Caries Consensus Collaboration (ICCC), and make their restorative treatment decisions regarding carious tissue removal accordingly. Data collection was performed using an electronic questionnaire, considering: a) profile of the respondent; b) analysis of four clinical cases with respect to possible management strategies; and c) questions on cariology field terminology. Sample size consisted of 175 dentists and 66 last semester dental students. Statistical analyses were performed comparing profile, type of institution and dental specialty of the participants. Results showed students were less conservative and agreed less with the ICCC than dentists, and private schools, less than public institutions. Private institutions were 12% (95%CI = 0.833-0.949; p = 0.000) more likely to be less updated with the ICCC recommendations than public institutions, and dentists were 20% more likely to agree with them than students (95%CI = 1.118-1.302; p = 0.000). Dentists were 66% more likely to be conservative than students (95%CI = 0.203-0.554; p = 0.000); dentists and students who graduated or were graduating from public universities were twice as likely to be conservative as those from private universities (95%CI = 1.336-3.333; p = 0.001). In conclusion, students in the last semester are less conservative than dentists, and respondents who graduated or were graduating from public dental schools were more aligned with the current concepts of the ICCC. Several answers were not aligned with ICCC directives, thus showing that management of deep carious lesions still causes restorative therapeutic insecurity.

Subjective versus objective, polymer bur-based selective carious tissue removal: 1-year interim analysis of a randomized clinical trial.

We aimed to compare subjective (S) vs. objective (O) selective carious tissue removal using hand-excavation versus a self-limiting polymer bur, respectively. A community-based single-blind cluster-randomized controlled superiority trial was performed. This is a 1-year-interim analysis. 115 children (age 7-8 years) with ≥1 vital primary molar with a deep dentin lesion (>1/2 dentin depth) were included (60 S/55 O). The cluster was the child, with eligible molars being treated identically (91 S/86 O). Cavities were prepared and carious tissue on pulpo-proximal walls selectively removed using hand instruments (S), or a self-limiting polymer bur (Polybur P1, Komet). Cavities were restored using glass-hybrid material (Equia Forte, GC). Treatment times and children's satisfaction were recorded. Generalized-linear models (GLM) and multi-level Cox-regression analysis were applied. Initial treatment times were not significantly different between protocols (mean; 95%CI S: 433; 404-462 sec; O: 412; 382-441 sec; p = 0.378/GLM). There was no significant difference in patients' satisfaction (p = 0.164). No pulpal exposures occurred. 113 children were re-examined. Failures occurred in 22/84 O-molars (26.2%) and 26/90 S-molars (28.9%). Pulpal complications occurred in 5(6%) O and 2(2.2%) S molars, respectively. Risk of failure was not significantly associated with the removal protocol, age, sex, dental arch or tooth type (p > 0.05/Cox), but was nearly 5-times higher in multi-surface than single-surface restorations (HR: 4.60; 95% CI: 1.70-12.4). Within the limitations of this interim analysis, there was no significant difference in treatment time, satisfaction and risk of failure between O and S.

Are Brazilian dentists and dental students using the ICCC recommendations for caries management?

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate whether dentists and dental undergraduate students know the terminology of the International Caries Consensus Collaboration (ICCC), and make their restorative treatment decisions regarding carious tissue removal accordingly. Data collection was performed using an electronic questionnaire, considering: a) profile of the respondent; b) analysis of four clinical cases with respect to possible management strategies; and c) questions on cariology field terminology. Sample size consisted of 175 dentists and 66 last semester dental students. Statistical analyses were performed comparing profile, type of institution and dental specialty of the participants. Results showed students were less conservative and agreed less with the ICCC than dentists, and private schools, less than public institutions. Private institutions were 12% (95%CI = 0.833-0.949; p = 0.000) more likely to be less updated with the ICCC recommendations than public institutions, and dentists were 20% more likely to agree with them than students (95%CI = 1.118-1.302; p = 0.000). Dentists were 66% more likely to be conservative than students (95%CI = 0.203-0.554; p = 0.000); dentists and students who graduated or were graduating from public universities were twice as likely to be conservative as those from private universities (95%CI = 1.336-3.333; p = 0.001). In conclusion, students in the last semester are less conservative than dentists, and respondents who graduated or were graduating from public dental schools were more aligned with the current concepts of the ICCC. Several answers were not aligned with ICCC directives, thus showing that management of deep carious lesions still causes restorative therapeutic insecurity.

Selective carious tissue removal using subjective criteria or polymer bur: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (SelecCT).

INTRODUCTION: Selective (incomplete/partial) carious tissue removal is suitable for treating deep carious lesions in teeth with vital, asymptomatic pulps. In the periphery of a cavity, removal to hard dentin is performed, while in pulpo-proximal areas, leathery or soft dentin is left to avoid pulp exposure. As the decision of what contains 'soft' or 'leathery' dentin is subjective, using self-limiting burs which help to standardise the hardness of the remaining dentin, has been suggested to increase the reliability of carious tissue removal. The trial compares subjectively measured selective carious tissue removal in deep lesions in primary teeth with objectively measured selective removal with a self-limiting bur (Polybur, Komet). METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A community-based single-blind clustered randomised controlled superiority trial nested into a larger evaluation is performed. Recruitment for this trial has been concluded. We have recruited 115 children aged 6-8 years with ≥1 vital primary molar with a deep dentin lesion. The unit of randomisation was the child, with all eligible molars per child treated identically. Treatment was performed in a mobile dental unit. Subjective and objective carious tissue removal was performed at random. Teeth were restored using glass ionomer cement (Equia Forte, GC). Our primary outcome will be the time until complications occur, evaluated via multilevel survival analysis. Secondary outcomes will be the time until extraction is needed, subjective satisfaction of the child with the treatment (measured using a Likert scale) and cost-effectiveness. Re-examination will be performed after 12, 24 and 36 months (the final examination is expected in 2020). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This trial has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Health Sciences of the University of Brasília (CAAE 51310415.0.0000.0030). Trial results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented on conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT02754466.

Oral health and school performance in a group of schoolchildren from the Federal District, Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate whether an association exists between school performance, quality of life, dental caries, and dental pain in children between 6 and 8 years of age. METHODS: All 6- to 8-year-old children enrolled in the second year of the six public schools in Paranoá-FD were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study. In total, 374 consented. Dental caries was recorded according to the Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) index by two trained examiners. Dental pain was assessed during clinical examination. The Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ) was used to assess the oral health-related quality of life, and sociodemographic data were collected. The child's school performance was measured through Provinha Brasil according to the regulations of the Ministry of Education. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and a multivariate regression model were used for data analysis. RESULTS: 185 boys and 189 girls participants with a mean age of 7.2 (±0.5) years were included in the study. The prevalence of dentin carious lesions for this group was 40.6 and 49.2 percent, including enamel-only lesions. The prevalence of dental pain was 2.8 percent. A high performance in reading (63.6 percent) and in mathematics (79.4 percent) was observed and were not associated with the presence of cavitated dentin carious lesions or dental pain. A significant association was found between school performance and the final CPQ score. CONCLUSION: School performance as measured by the Provinha Brasil examination was not associated with carious lesions or dental pain. Students with lower school performance had higher CPQ scores.

Retention rates and caries-preventive effects of two different sealant materials: a randomised clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the caries-preventive effect and the retention rates of sealants prepared with a new modified and a high-viscosity glass-ionomer cement (GIC) in recently erupted first permanent molars.  MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-six children (224 teeth) were included in a split-mouth randomised clinical trial. All children had their four first permanent molars sealed with either Clinpro XT Varnish (CXT) or Fuji IX GP FAST (FJ). FJ sealants were placed according to the ART protocol. Retention rates and caries-preventive effect of both materials were assessed clinically after 24 months, and survival curves were created according to the Kaplan-Meier method. For sealant retention rates, analyses were performed according to both the traditional method and modified sealant retention categorisation. RESULTS: FJ sealants were retained longer in comparison to CXT sealants (p < 0.05), regardless of the categorisation used. In relation to the caries-preventive effect, no statistically significant differences were observed between materials (p = 0.99). Sealants prepared with the high-viscosity GIC according to the ART protocol survived longer than those prepared with the modified GIC, but both materials were equally effective in preventing cavitated dentine lesions over 24 months. CONCLUSION: We concluded that GIC-based sealants are effective in preventing dentine caries lesions.

Comparative bonding ability to dentin of a universal adhesive system and monomer conversion as functions of extended light curing times and storage.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the bonding ability and monomer conversion of a universal adhesive system applied to dentin as functions of different curing times and storage. The results were compared among a variety of commercial adhesives. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Flat superficial dentin surfaces were exposed on human molars and assigned into one of the following adhesives (n = 15): total-etch Adper Single Bond 2 (SB) and Optibond Solo Plus (OS), self-etch Optibond All in One (OA) and Clearfil SE Bond (CSE), and Scotchbond Universal Adhesive in self-etch mode (SU). The adhesives were applied following the manufacturers' instructions and cured for 10, 20, or 40s. Specimens were processed for the microtensile bond strength (µTBS) test in accordance with the non-trimming technique and tested after 24h and 2 years. The fractured specimens were classified under scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Infrared (IR) spectra were obtained and monomer conversion (%) was calculated by comparing the aliphatic-to-aromatic IR absorption peak ratio before and after polymerization (n=5). Data were analyzed by 2-way ANOVA/Tukey's tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: At 24-h evaluation, OA and CSE presented similar bond strength means irrespective of the curing time, whereas SB and SU exhibited significantly higher means when cured for 40s as did OS when cured for 20 or 40s (p < 0.05). At 2-year evaluation, only OA exhibited significantly higher bond strength when cured for 20 and 40s (p < 0.05). When the evaluation times were compared, OA also exhibited the same bonding ability when cured for longer periods of time (20 and 40s). All of the adhesives tested exhibited significantly lower monomer conversion when photoactivated according to the manufacturers' instructions (10s). CONCLUSIONS: Higher monomer conversions obtained with longer light exposure allow only higher immediate bond strength for most of the adhesives tested. After 2-year storage, only the self-etching adhesive Optibond All-In-One exhibited the same bonding ability when cured for longer periods of time.