HA2-FimA DNA Vaccine Treats Experimental Periodontitis.

PURPOSE: To study the therapeutic effect of hemagglutinin-2 and fimbrial (HA2-FimA) vaccine on experimental periodontitis in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The first batch of rats was divided into two groups and immunised with pure water or pVAX1-HA2-FimA at the age of 6, 7, and 9 weeks. After sacrificing the animals, total RNA was extracted from the spleens for RNA high-throughput sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis. The second batch of rats was divided into four groups (A, B, C, D), and an experimental periodontitis rat model was established by suturing silk thread around the maxillary second molars of rats in groups B, C, and D for 4 weeks. The rats were immunised with pure water, pVAX1-HA2-FimA vaccine, empty pVAX1 vector, and pure water at 10, 11, and 13 weeks of age, respectively. Secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) antibodies and cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) levels in saliva were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). All rats were euthanised at 17 weeks of age, and alveolar bone loss was examined using micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT). RESULTS: Through sequencing analysis, six key genes, including Camp, were identified. Compared with the other three groups, the rats in the periodontitis+pVAX1-HA2-FimA vaccine group showed higher levels of SIgA and CAMP (p < 0.05). Micro-CT results showed significantly less alveolar bone loss in the periodontitis+pVAX1-HA2-FimA vaccine group compared to the periodontitis+pVAX1 group and periodontitis+pure water group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: HA2-FimA DNA vaccine can increase the levels of SIgA and CAMP in the saliva of experimental periodontitis model rats and reduce alveolar bone loss.

Characterization and application of in situ curcumin/ZNP hydrogels for periodontitis treatment.

BACKGROUND: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that occurs in tooth-supporting tissues. Controlling inflammation and alleviating periodontal tissue destruction are key factors in periodontal therapy. This study aimed to develop an in situ curcumin/zinc oxide (Cur/ZNP) hydrogel and investigate its characteristics and effectiveness in the treatment of periodontitis. METHODS: Antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity assays were performed in vitro. To evaluate the effect of the in situ Cur/ZNP hydrogel on periodontitis in vivo, an experimental periodontitis model was established in Sprague‒Dawley rats via silk ligature and inoculation of the maxillary first molar with Porphyromonas gingivalis. After one month of in situ treatment with the hydrogel, we examined the transcriptional responses of the gingiva to the Cur/ZNP hydrogel treatment and detected the alveolar bone level as well as the expression of osteocalcin (OCN) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in the periodontal tissues of the rats. RESULTS: Cur/ZNPs had synergistic inhibitory effects on P. gingivalis and good biocompatibility. RNA sequencing of the gingiva showed that immune effector process-related genes were significantly induced by experimental periodontitis. Carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 1 (Ceacam1), which is involved in the negative regulation of bone resorption, was differentially regulated by the Cur/ZNP hydrogel but not by the Cur hydrogel or ZNP hydrogel. The Cur/ZNP hydrogel also had a stronger protective effect on alveolar bone resorption than both the Cur hydrogel and the ZNP hydrogel. CONCLUSION: The Cur/ZNP hydrogel effectively inhibited periodontal pathogenic bacteria and alleviated alveolar bone destruction while exhibiting favorable biocompatibility.

Preventive effects of systemic Pistacia eurycarpa Yalt. administration on alveolar bone loss and oxidative stress in rats with experimental periodontitis.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of systemic administration of P. eurycarpa Yalt. plant extract on alveolar bone loss and oxidative stress biomarkers in gingival tissue in a rat model of experimental periodontitis. METHODOLOGY: 32 male Wistar albino rats, weighing 200-250 g, were divided into four groups (n=8): Healthy control (HC), Experimental periodontitis control (EPC), Experimental periodontitis 400 mg/kg (EP400), Experimental periodontitis 800 mg/kg (EP800). Experimental periodontitis was induced using the ligating method. Distilled water was administered to the HC and EPC groups and the plant extract was administered to the EP400 and EP800 groups by oral gavage at doses of 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg, respectively. The rats were sacrificed on the 15th day. The values of glutathione peroxidase GSH-Px, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismustase (SOD), interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), interleukin-10 (IL-10), total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI) in the gingival tissues were analyzed by ELISA tests. Alveolar bone loss was assessed using micro-CT images of the maxilla. RESULTS: Although the IL-1ß, TOS, OSI results of the healthy control group were lower than those of the other groups, the TAS values were higher (p<0.05). No significant difference was found in the biochemical parameters among the EPC, EP400, and EP800 groups (p>0.05). Alveolar bone loss was significantly reduced in the extract groups compared to the EPC group (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, it was observed that the systemic P. eurycarpa extract application reduced alveolar bone loss in a rat model of experimental periodontitis. Further studies are needed to elucidate the beneficial effects of P. eurycarpa.

Integrated microbiome and metabolomics revealed the protective effect of baicalin on alveolar bone inflammatory resorption in aging.

BACKGROUND: With the growing aging population and longer life expectancy, periodontitis and tooth loss have become major health concerns. The gut microbiota, as a key regulator in bone homeostasis, has gathered immense interest. Baicalin, a flavonoid compound extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. PURPOSE: This study investigated, for the first time, the protective mechanism of baicalin against alveolar bone inflammatory resorption in aging mice by regulating intestinal flora and metabolites, as well as intestinal barrier function. METHODS: A ligature-induced periodontitis model was established in d-galactose (D-gal)-induced aging mice, and baicalin was administered at different dosages for 13 weeks. Body weight was measured weekly. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of baicalin were evaluated using serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), malonaldehyde (MDA), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels. The immune capability was assessed by thymus and spleen indices. Histopathological changes were observed in the heart, liver, ileum, and periodontal tissues. Alveolar bone absorption of maxillary second molars was examined, and osteoclasts were counted by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. Furthermore, fecal samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics to identify differences in intestinal bacterial composition and metabolites. RESULTS: Baicalin exhibited anti-aging properties, as evidenced by increased SOD activity and decreased levels of MDA, IL-6, and TNF-α in serum compared to the control group. Baicalin also ameliorated alveolar bone loss in the d-gal-induced aging-periodontitis group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, baicalin restored ileal permeability by up-regulating the expression of ZO-1 and occludin in aging-periodontitis groups (p < 0.05). Alpha diversity analysis indicated that baicalin-treated mice harbored a higher diversity of gut microbe. PCoA and ANOSIM results revealed significant dissimilarity between groups. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio, which decreased in periodontitis mice, was restored by baicalin treatment. Additionally, medium-dosage baicalin promoted the production of beneficial flavonoids, and enriched short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria. CONCLUSION: Intestinal homeostasis is a potential avenue for treating age-related alveolar bone loss. Baicalin exerts anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and osteo-protective properties by regulating the gut microbiota and metabolites.

Effectiveness of a collagen matrix seal and xenograft in alveolar ridge preservation: an experimental study in dogs.

Majority of previous studies on alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) used collagen membranes as barrier membranes, and further evidence for ARP in dehiscent extraction sockets with a deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) and matrix is needed. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of non-cross linked collagen membranes (membrane) and crosslinked collagen matrices (matrix) on ARP using DBBM in extraction sockets with buccal dehiscence. In six mongrel dogs, the mesial roots of three mandibular premolars (P2, P3, and P4) were extracted 1 month after dehiscence defect induction. Two experimental groups were randomly assigned: (1) DBBM with a membrane (DBBM/membrane group) and (2) DBBM with a matrix (DBBM/matrix group). Three-dimensional (3D) volumetric, microcomputed tomography (µCT), and histologic analyses were performed to assess the ridge preservation. Both groups were effective to maintain the ridge width (p > 0.05), and the DBBM/matrix group showed more favorable soft tissue regeneration and bone quality in the histological analysis (p = 0.05). Based on these results, DBBM/matrix could be better choice for ARP in cases of buccal dehiscence defects.

Oxytocin alleviates periodontitis in adult rats.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to evaluate the expression of oxytocin receptors in normal and inflamed gingiva, as well as the effects of systemic administration of oxytocin in bone loss and gum inflammatory mediators in a rat model of experimental periodontitis. BACKGROUND DATA: Current evidence supports the hypothesis of a disbalance between the oral microbiota and the host's immune response in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Increased complexity of the microbial biofilm present in the periodontal pocket leads to local production of nitrogen and oxygen-reactive species, cytokines, chemokines, and other proinflammatory mediators which contribute to periodontal tissue destruction and bone loss. Oxytocin has been suggested to participate in the modulation of immune and inflammatory processes. We have previously shown that oxytocin, nitric oxide, and endocannabinoid system interact providing a mechanism of regulation for systemic inflammation. Here, we aimed at investigating not only the presence and levels of expression of oxytocin receptors on healthy and inflamed gingiva, but also the effects of oxytocin treatment on alveolar bone loss, and systemic and gum expression of inflammatory mediators involved in periodontal tissue damage using ligature-induced periodontitis. Therefore, anti-inflammatory strategies oriented at modulating the host's immune response could be valuable adjuvants to the main treatment of periodontal disease. METHODS: We used an animal model of ligature-induced periodontitis involving the placement of a linen thread (Barbour flax 100% linen suture, No. 50; size 2/0) ligature around the neck of first lower molars of adult male rats. The ligature was left in place during the entire experiment (7 days) until euthanasia. Animals with periodontitis received daily treatment with oxytocin (OXT, 1000 µg/kg, sc.) or vehicle and/or atosiban (3 mg/kg, sc.), an antagonist of oxytocin receptors. The distance between the cement-enamel junction and the alveolar bone crest was measured in stained hemimandibles in the long axis of both buccal and lingual surfaces of both inferior first molars using a caliper. TNF-α levels in plasma were determined using specific rat enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). OXT receptors, IL-6, IL-1ß, and TNF-α expression were determined in gingival tissues by semiquantitative or real-time PCR. RESULTS: We show that oxytocin receptors are expressed in normal and inflamed gingival tissues in male rats. We also show that the systemic administration of oxytocin prevents the experimental periodontitis-induced increased gum expression of oxytocin receptors, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1ß (p < .05). Furthermore, we observed a reduction in bone loss in rats treated with oxytocin in our model. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate that oxytocin is a novel and potent modulator of the gingival inflammatory process together with bone loss preventing effects in an experimental model of ligature-induced periodontitis.

Alveolar ridge preservation of two-wall bone defects using mineralized dentin matrix: An experimental pre-clinical study.

OBJECTIVES: To study bone healing of two-wall bone defects after alveolar ridge preservation using mineralized dentin matrix. MATERIALS AND METHODS: After distal roots extraction of second and fourth premolars (P2, P4) on one lateral mandible in 12 beagles, two-wall bone defects (5 × 5 × 5 mm) were surgically created distally to the remaining mesial roots of P2 and P4. A total of 24 sites were randomly allocated to three groups (implant material- time of execution): mineralized dentin matrix (MDM)-3 m (MDM + collagen membrane; 3 months), MDM-6 m (MDM particles + collagen membrane; 6 months), and C-6 m (collagen membrane only; 6 months). Clinical, radiographic, digital, and histological examinations were performed 3 and 6 months after surgery. RESULTS: The bone healing in MDM groups were better compared to Control group (volume of bone regenerated in total: 25.12 mm3 vs. 13.30 mm3, p = .046; trabecular volume/total volume: 58.84% vs. 39.18%, p = .001; new bone formation rate: 44.13% vs. 31.88%, p = .047). Vertically, the radiological bone level of bone defect in MDM-6 m group was higher than that in C-6 m group (vertical height of bone defect: 1.55 mm vs. 2.74 mm, p = .018). Horizontally, no significant differences in buccolingual bone width were found between MDM and C groups at any time or at any level below the alveolar ridge. The percentages of remaining MDM were <1% in both MDM-3 m and MDM-6 m groups. CONCLUSIONS: MDM improved bone healing of two-wall bone defects and might be considered as a socket fill material used following tooth extraction.

Protective Effect of Bovine Milk Extracellular Vesicles on Alveolar Bone Loss.

SCOPE: Bovine milk extracellular vesicles (MEVs) have demonstrated therapeutic potential in regulating bone cell activity. However, the outcome of their use on alveolar bone loss has not yet been demonstrated. METHODS AND RESULTS: This study evaluates the effect of oral administration of MEVs on ovariectomized (OVX) mice. There is a reduced height of the alveolar bone crest in OVX mice by MEVs treatment, but the alveolar bone parameters are not altered. OVX mice are then submitted to a force-induced bone remodeling model by orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). MEVs-treated mice have markedly less bone remodeling movement, unlike the untreated OVX mice. Also, OVX mice treated with MEVs show an increased number of osteoblasts and osteocytes associated with higher sclerostin expression and reduce osteoclasts in the alveolar bone. Although the treatment with MEVs in OVX mice does not show differences in root structure in OTM, few odontoclasts are observed in the dental roots of OVX-treated mice. Compared to untreated mice, maxillary and systemic RANKL/OPG ratios are reduced in OVX mice treated with MEVs. CONCLUSION: Treatment with MEVs results in positive bone cell balance in the alveolar bone and dental roots, indicating its beneficial potential in treating alveolar bone loss in the nutritional context.

Clinical and radiographic outcomes of implants placed in extraction sites treated with alveolar ridge preservation: a 10-year retrospective analysis of a case series.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes of implants placed in alveolar sockets treated by means of alveolar ridge preservation after 10 years of follow-up. METHOD AND MATERIALS: Eleven patients treated with 11 implants placed after alveolar ridge preservation using bovine-derived xenograft particles and collagen membrane were selected. Full-mouth plaque score, full-mouth bleeding score, probing depth at four sites per implant, and radiographic marginal bone level at mesial and distal aspects for each implant were recorded at baseline and after 10 years of follow-up. The primary outcome was the radiographic marginal bone loss. The marginal bone loss was considered as the difference between marginal bone level at baseline and after 10 years of observation time. RESULTS: After 10 years of follow-up, full-mouth plaque score increased significantly (P < .05), while no statistically significant differences were found in the change in full-mouth bleeding score (P ≥ .05). At the 10-year observation period, a significant increase in probing depth was observed at all sites (P < .05), except at the mesial aspects (P ≥ .05). Radiographic marginal bone loss was 1.1 ± 0.1 mm and 1.0 ± 0.1 mm at mesial and distal sites, respectively. CONCLUSION: Whitin the limitations of the present study, implants placed in post-extraction sockets treated with alveolar ridge preservation yielded stable clinical and radiographic results after 10 years of follow-up.

Efficacy of alveolar ridge preservation with xenografts and resorbable socket sealing materials in the esthetic region: A systematic review with meta-analyses.

AIM: The present systematic review aimed to identify and summarize the clinical, radiographic, and histological outcomes of alveolar ridge preservation using bone xenografts and absorbable sealing materials compared with spontaneous healing in the esthetic zone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) fulfilling specific eligibility criteria were included. Two review authors independently searched for eligible studies, extracted data from the published reports and performed the risk of bias assessment (RoB 2 tool). Study results were summarized using random effects meta-analyses. RESULTS: Thirteen articles concerning 10 RCTs were included, involving a total of 357 participants. Most of studies were considered as "low" risk of bias. Meta-analyses indicated less horizontal (difference in means-MD = 1.88 mm; p < 0.001), vertical mid-buccal (MD = 1.84 mm; p < 0.001) and vertical mid-lingual (MD = 2.27 mm; p < 0.001) bone resorption in alveolar ridge preservation compared to spontaneous healing as assessed clinically. Bone changes assessed radiographically showed consistent results in terms of horizontal (at 1 mm: MD = 1.84 mm, p < 0.001), vertical mid-buccal (MD = 0.95 mm; p < 0.001) and mid-lingual (MD = 0.62 mm; p = 0.05) resorption. Part of the bone resorption in the spontaneous healing group was compensated by soft-tissues, since the observed differences between groups in linear ridge reduction evaluated through cast models superimposition were smaller (MD = 0.52 mm; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Alveolar ridge preservation with xenogeneic bone substitutes and non-autogenous resorbable socket sealing materials is efficacious in reducing post-extraction bone and ridge changes in the esthetic region.

Protocol for ridge preservation at severely compromised extraction sockets: Consecutive case series.

BACKGROUND: The physiologic bone remodeling accompanying tooth extraction is a phenomenon well described in the dental literature. Extraction sockets severely compromised by local infection, trauma, iatrogenesis, or other factors may exhibit enhanced reduction in alveolar dimensions during healing. The purpose of this report is to present an alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) protocol specifically intended for use at severely compromised sites. METHODS: Seven patients presented to the Department of Periodontics, Army Postgraduate Dental School, Fort Gordon, Georgia, requiring extraction of teeth with partial or near-complete loss of the facial/buccal cortex. At each site, a cross-linked bovine collagen membrane was used to prevent collapse of the facial/buccal soft tissue and maintain space, a freeze-dried bone allograft was applied in the socket, and a dense polytetrafluoroethylene membrane covered the occlusal aspect. RESULTS: All sites healed uneventfully and resulted in favorable alveolar ridge dimensions for implant placement. CONCLUSION: Few authors have proposed specific ARP methods for managing severely deficient extraction sockets. The predominant recommendation has been staged reconstruction of the site applying hard and soft tissue augmentation. Observations reported herein suggest that staged reconstruction is avoidable at some extraction sockets exhibiting severe alveolar compromise. Controlled clinical investigation of this protocol appears warranted. KEY POINTS: Few authors have proposed alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) methods specifically intended for use at severely compromised extraction sockets. The prevailing recommendation at such sites is a staged protocol involving tooth extraction with delayed hard and soft tissue augmentation. The presented bilaminar ARP technique may eliminate the need for staged reconstruction at some severely compromised extraction sockets.

Alveolar ridge changes 1-year after early implant placement, with or without alveolar ridge preservation at single-implant sites in the aesthetic region: A secondary analysis of radiographic and profilometric outcomes from a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To assess both the radiographic and profilometric outcomes of early implant placement with or without alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) (using two different ARP techniques) after 1 year of loading. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-five patients with a failing single tooth in the anterior maxilla were randomly allocated to three groups (1:1:1): (a) ARP using demineralized bovine bone mineral containing 10% collagen (DBBM-C) covered by a collagen matrix (CM), (b) ARP using DBBM-C covered with a palatal graft (PG), and (c) unassisted socket healing (control). Eight weeks after tooth extraction, early implant placement was performed in all patients. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and impressions were taken 8 weeks after tooth extraction (ARP/unassisted healing) prior to implant placement and 1-year post-loading. Radiographic and profilometric outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: Out of the 70 patients available for re-examination at 1-year post-loading, 55 datasets could be assessed (ARP-CM 19; ARP-PG 17; Control 19). The need for additional guided bone regeneration (GBR) at implant placement amounted to 31.6% (ARP-CM), 29.4% (ARP-PG), and 68.4% (unassisted healing). Adjusted models revealed that residual buccal bone height and additional GBR at implant placement significantly influenced the magnitude of the alveolar changes at 1 year (p < 0.05). In patients with ARP (group ARP-CM or ARP-PG) without additional GBR, the presence of bone convexity amounted to 36.0% (9/25) at 1-year post-loading. For patients that received ARP and additional GBR at implant placement, the frequency of bone convexity increased to 72.7% (8/11) (p = 0.042). Regarding profilometric measurements, a tendency toward agreement with radiographic outcomes was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Early implant placement with ARP can attenuate alveolar ridge changes at 1-year post loading by minimizing both radiographic and profilometric alterations. However, early implant placement with simultaneous GBR consistently yields superior radiographic and profilometric outcomes, regardless of whether ARP is performed.

Chroogomphus rutilus Regulates Bone Metabolism to Prevent Periodontal Bone Loss during Orthodontic Tooth Movement in Osteoporotic Rats.

Osteoporosis (OP) leads to the acceleration of tooth movement and aggravation of periodontal bone loss during orthodontic treatment. Chroogomphus rutilus (CR) is abundant in nutrients and demonstrates remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, the components of CR, including 35.00% total sugar, 0.69% reducing sugar, 14.40% crude protein, 7.30% total ash, 6.10% crude fat, 0.51% total flavonoids, 1.94% total triterpenoids, 0.32% total sterol, 1.30% total saponins, 1.69% total alkaloids, and 1.02% total phenol, were first systematically examined, followed by an investigation into its regulatory effects on bone metabolism in order to mitigate bone loss during orthodontic tooth movement in osteoporotic rats. The results of the imaging tests revealed that CR treatment reduced periodontal bone loss and normalized tooth movement in the OP. In conjunction with analyses of intestinal flora and metabolomics, CR enhances the prevalence of anti-inflammatory genera while reducing the production of inflammatory metabolites. Meanwhile, CR reduced the levels of periodontal inflammatory factors, including TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IL-6, by activating Wnt/ß-catenin signaling, and promoted periodontal bone formation. These findings imply that CR is a potent supplementary therapy for controlling periodontal bone remodeling in patients with OP undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Augmentation of single tooth extraction socket with deficient buccal walls using bovine xenograft with platelet-rich fibrin membrane.

BACKGROUND: Different techniques and materials such as bone grafts and bioactive agents have been used for alveolar ridge augmentation in extraction sockets with a defective wall, there is not a specific material or technique that has resulted in superior outcomes or prevented total bone loss. OBJECTIVES: This clinical study aims to evaluate radiographically the effectiveness of using bovine xenograft with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) membrane on vertical and horizontal alveolar ridge dimensional changes following tooth extraction that are complicated by buccal bone loss. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted in Egypt on fourteen patients with a single posterior tooth indicated for extraction. A preoperative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan confirmed more than 50% loss in buccal bone in each tooth. Extraction sockets were packed with minced PRF clots mixed with a bovine xenograft. Each extraction socket was sealed by PRF membranes. CBCT scans, performed before tooth extraction and after 6 months, were used to assess alveolar ridge changes both vertically and horizontally. RESULTS: There was a significant gain in the buccal and middle of the extraction socket bone height, recording 86.01% (6.33 mm) and 206.45% (9.6 mm), respectively. There was an insignificant bone loss in the lingual bone height and width, recording - 8.49% (-1.06 mm) and - 13.39% (1.05 mm), respectively. The results also showed a non-significant decrease in alveolar bone density (-14.06%) between pre-operative bone present apical to the extraction socket and newly formed bone inside the socket. CONCLUSIONS: Ridge preservation/augmentation techniques using a bone graft mixed with PRF and covered by PRF membranes in fresh extraction sockets complicated by the loss of buccal bone result in buccal bone augmentation and a reduction in horizontal and vertical ridge collapse after tooth extraction. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The bovine xenograft in conjunction with PRF can be used immediately after extraction for ridge preservation, providing adequate bone width and height for implant placement.

Selective BET inhibitor RVX-208 ameliorates periodontal inflammation and bone loss.

AIM: To determine the effects of RVX-208, a selective bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) inhibitor targeting bromodomain 2 (BD2), on periodontal inflammation and bone loss. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Macrophage-like cells (RAW264.7) and human gingival epithelial cells were challenged by Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) with or without RVX-208. Inflammatory gene expression and cytokine production were measured by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. RAW264.7 cells were induced to osteoclast differentiation. After RVX-208 treatment, osteoclast differentiation was evaluated by histology, tartrate-resistant-acid-phosphatase (TRAP) activity and the expression of osteoclast-specific genes. The effect of RVX-208 on osteoclast transcriptome was studied by RNA sequencing. Periodontitis was induced in rats by ligature and local RVX-208 treatment was administered every other day. Alveolar bone loss was measured by micro-computed tomography. RESULTS: RVX-208 inhibited inflammatory gene expression and cytokine production in Pg-infected cells. Osteoclast differentiation was inhibited by RVX-208, as evidenced by reduced osteoclast number, TRAP activity and osteoclast-specific gene expression. RVX-208 displayed a more selective and less profound suppressive impact on transcriptome compared with pan-BET inhibitor, JQ1. RVX-208 administration prevented the alveolar bone loss in vivo. CONCLUSIONS: RVX-208 regulated both upstream (inflammatory cytokine production) and downstream (osteoclast differentiation) events that lead to periodontal tissue destruction, suggesting that it may be a promising 'epi-drug' for the prevention of periodontitis.

Radiographic evaluation of alveolar ridge preservation using a chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol nanofibrous matrix: A randomized clinical study.

The objective of this randomized clinical trial (RCT) was to assess the effectiveness of electrospun chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol (CS/PVA) nanofibrous scaffolds in preserving the alveolar ridge and enhancing bone remodeling following tooth extraction when compared to a control group. In this split RCT, 24 human alveolar sockets were randomly assigned to two groups, with 12 sockets receiving CS/PVA nanofibrous scaffold grafts (test group) and 12 left to heal by secondary intention as the control group. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was performed at two different time points: immediately after extraction (T0) and 4 months post-extraction (T4). After 4 months, linear vertical and horizontal radiographic changes and bone density of extraction sockets were assessed in both the test and control groups. The RCT included 12 patients (4 male and 8 female) with a mean age of 24 ± 3.37 years. The test group had a significantly lower mean vertical resorption vs the control group, with a mean difference of 1.1 mm (P < 0.05). Similarly, the control group's mean horizontal bone resorption was -2.01 ± 1.04 mm, while the test group had a significantly lower mean of -0.69 ± 0.41 mm, resulting in a mean difference of 1.35 mm (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the study group exhibited a significant increase in bone density (722.03 ± 131.17 HU) after 4 months compared to the control group (448.73 ± 93.23 HU). In conclusion, we demonstrated within the limitations of this study that CS/PVA nanofibrous scaffold significantly limited alveolar bone resorption horizontally and vertically and enhanced bone density in alveolar sockets after 4 months when compared to results in the control group (TCTR20230526005).

Effect of dental implant therapy on the preservation of orofacial tissues: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Fundamentally, this review addresses the following question: In partially or fully edentulous patients, do implant-supported dental prostheses preserve orofacial tissues when compared to conventional prostheses or no therapy? MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted according to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews. Electronic searches were conducted at PubMed and Embase databases followed by manual search. Clinical studies comparing the effect of implant-supported prostheses with conventional rehabilitation or no treatment on alveolar bone resorption, remaining teeth, and jaw muscle thickness were considered for inclusion. A qualitative synthesis was conducted with all included studies, and data from selected studies were pooled quantitatively to perform a meta-analysis. RESULTS: A total of 14 studies were selected for analysis. Six studies reported on the effect of implant therapy on alveolar bone resorption (n = 453), six on the remaining teeth (n = 1014), while four studies evaluated masseter muscle thickness (n = 158). The results of the meta-analyses assessing alveolar bone resorption in the posterior mandible and in the anterior area of the maxilla, both fixed and random effects models, yielded no benefit of rehabilitation with implant-supported prostheses when compared to conventional prostheses. For masseter bone thickness, however, a significant benefit for implant-supported prosthesis was observed. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review and meta-analysis were unable to unequivocally answer the focus question. There are some indicators of the benefit of implant-supported prostheses over conventional prostheses or no therapy in preserving orofacial tissues, particularly for masseter muscle thickness. However, the evidence is still insufficient to confirm such perception.

Preventive effects of Capparis Spinose extract on experimental periodontitis in rats: a histopathological and biochemical study.

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Capparis Spinose (CS) in preventing the initiation and progression of experimental periodontitis and to evaluate the effect of its on systemic oxidative stress in rats by experimental periodontitis model. Twenty-four male rats were equally divided into; Ligatured (L), non-ligatured (NL), and Ligatured with CS (11 days/day per 20 mg/kg) (LC) groups. Experimental periodontitis was induced with the silk suture technic. Alveolar bone loss was examined, and total antioxidant capacity(TAOC), total oxidant status(TOS), and oxidative stress index(OSI) were analyzed in rat serum. Although; alveolar bone loss showed statistically significant lower values in the LC group compared to L (p < 0.05), not NL. In the LC group, osteoclast and osteoblast numbers were statistically significant compared to L, but there were no statistical differences between LC and NL. Serum TAOC levels were significantly lower in group L compared to others and also LC group showed significant differences from NL. TOS and OSI levels were significantly higher in group L than in other groups. Within the limitation of the present study, it can be said that the destruction via local inflammation that may occur after the experimental periodontitis can be prevented by using CS.

Stevioside reduces inflammation in periodontitis by changing the oral bacterial composition and inhibiting P. gingivalis in mice.

BACKGROUND: Excessive sugar intake has become a major challenge in modern societies. Stevioside is a promising non-calorie sweetener with anti-inflammatory effects; however, its effects on the oral environment and periodontitis remain unclear. Therefore, this study explores the effect of stevioside on periodontitis in mice. METHODS: Mice were divided into four groups, namely, control, treated with water, and periodontitis models, established using 5 - 0 silk sutures ligation around the second molar then infected the oral cavity with Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) viscous suspension, divided into three groups treated with 0.1% stevioside (P + S), 10% glucose (P + G), or water (P). Micro-CT scanning was used to assess alveolar bone resorption, while RT-PCR was used to evaluate the inflammatory factors expression and P. gingivalis invasion in the gingiva. The composition of the oral bacteria was analysed using 16 S rRNA sequence in the saliva. In addition, P. gingivalis was co-cultured with stevioside at different concentrations in vitro, and bacterial activity was detected via optical density values and live/dead staining. The virulence was detected using RT-PCR, while biofilm formation was detected using scanning electron microscopy. RESULTS: Compared with 10% glucose, treatment with 0.1% stevioside reduced alveolar bone absorption and osteoclasts while decreasing IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1ß, and P. gingivalis in the gingiva of periodontitis mice. The CEJ-ABC distance in the P + S group was significantly lower than that in the P and P + G groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the composition of the oral bacteria in the P + S group was similar to that of the control. In vitro stevioside treatment also reduced the bacterial activity and toxicity of P. gingivalis in a dose-dependent manner and affected its biofilm composition. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that, compared with 10% glucose, 0.1% stevioside intake can reduce alveolar bone resorption and inflammation in periodontal tissues in mice; the bacterial composition following 0.1% stevioside intake was similar to that of a healthy environment. In vitro, high concentrations of stevioside reduced P. gingivalis activity, biofilm formation, and virulence expression. Therefore, stevioside is a potential alternative to glucose for patients with periodontitis.

Is alveolar ridge preservation an overtreatment?

The morphology and dimensions of the postextraction alveolar ridge are important for the surgical and restorative phases of implant treatment. Adequate new bone formation and preservation of alveolar ridge dimensions following extraction will facilitate installation of the implant in a restorative position, while preservation of soft tissue contour and volume is essential for an aesthetic and implant-supported restoration with healthy peri-implant tissues. Alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) refers to any procedure that aims to: (i) limit dimensional changes in the alveolar ridge after extraction facilitating implant placement without additional extensive bone and soft tissue augmentation procedures (ii) promote new bone formation in the healing alveolus, and (iii) promote soft tissue healing at the entrance of the alveolus and preserve the alveolar ridge contour. Although ARP is a clinically validated and safe approach, in certain clinical scenarios, the additional clinical benefit of ARP over unassisted socket healing has been debated and it appears that for some clinicians may represent an overtreatment. The aim of this critical review was to discuss the evidence pertaining to the four key objectives of ARP and to determine where ARP can lead to favorable outcomes when compared to unassisted socket healing.