Influence of Er,Cr:YSGG laser, associated or not to desensitizing agents, in the prevention of acid erosion in bovine root dentin.

This in vitro study evaluated the influence of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser, associated or not to desensitizing agents, in the prevention of acid erosion in bovine root dentin. Eighty dentin specimens were selected and divided into eight groups (n = 10): G1: negative control; G2: positive control (5% fluoride varnish-FV); G3: Er,Cr:YSGG laser; G4: FV + laser; G5: 3% potassium oxalate; G6: 3% potassium oxalate + laser; G7: biphasic calcium silicate/phosphate gel (gel); G8: gel + laser. Laser parameters: 0.5 W, 6.25 J/cm2 at 1-mm distance. The erosive drink used was a cola soft-drink (pH = 2.42 at 4 °C), lasting 5 min, twice a day, with 6-h intervals between the challenges, during 14 days. Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Levene's tests were satisfied. The surface roughness data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests. For the wear profile, Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn post hoc tests were used. Afterwards, the Spearman correlation test was performed. All statistical tests assumed a significance level of 5% (α = 0.05). G1 presented the highest surface roughness value after the erosive challenge (3.586 µm2 ± 0.205 µm2) and the G7 presented the lowest surface roughness value after the erosive challenge (1.071 µm2 ± 0.180 µm2). For the lost volume, G4 presented the lowest percentage (9.7% ± 0.9%), while G1 had the highest percentage (41.8% ± 2.5%), both with p < 0.05. There was a weak correlation between the response variables (ρ = 0.33). All groups presented lower values of surface roughness and loss of volume when compared to the negative control group. For the surface roughness, the biphasic calcium silicate/phosphate gel presented the best result. For volume loss, the 5% fluoride varnish + Er,Cr:YSGG laser showed the best results compared to the other groups.

Surface treatment of implant materials with antimicrobial nanoparticulates.

This study analyzed nanostructured silver vanadate (AgVO3) films on certain substrate surfaces found in dental implant devices in order to see if these films promote antimicrobial activity. Enamel and glaze vehicles were used to apply the nanomaterial (0.0% [control], 2.5%, 5.0%, and 10.0% concentrations) on 3 substrates (280 specimens per substrate): polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyacetal, and acrylic resin. An agar diffusion method was performed in triplicate to determine the antimicrobial activity against 8 microorganisms. Physical behavior and morphologic properties were also analyzed. The growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus aureus was inhibited with the application of AgVO3. For Candida albicans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Prevotella intermedia, no antimicrobial activity was observed. Except for S mutans, the type of substrate did not influence the microbiologic results. The glaze showed greater antimicrobial efficacy against S aureus, E faecalis, and S mutans than did the enamel vehicle (P < 0.05). Films with 10% AgVO3 showed greater antimicrobial activity (P < 0.05). The choice of substrate or vehicle did not influence the surface roughness (P > 0.05); however, the application of 10% AgVO3 caused greater surface change (P < 0.05). The application of the nanomaterial did not influence the surface hardness of substrates when compared with the control group (P > 0.05). The use of the glaze as a vehicle provided higher hardness values (P < 0.05).

Mechanical properties of silorane-based and methacrylate-based composite resins after artificial aging.

The aim of this study was to compare the compressive strength of a silorane-based composite resin (Filtek P90) to that of conventional composite resins (Charisma, Filtek Z250, Fill Magic, and NT Premium) before and after accelerated artificial aging (AAA). For each composite resin, 16 cylindrical specimens were prepared and divided into 2 groups. One group underwent analysis of compressive strength in a universal testing machine 24 hours after preparation, and the other was subjected first to 192 hours of AAA and then the compressive strength test. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance, followed by the Tukey HSD post hoc test (α = 0.05). Some statistically significant differences in compressive strength were found among the commercial brands (P < 0.001). The conventional composite resin Fill Magic presented the best performance before (P < 0.05) and after AAA (P < 0.05). Values for compressive strength of the silorane-based composite were among the lowest obtained, both before and after aging. Comparison of each material before and after AAA revealed that the aging process did not influence the compressive strength of the tested resins (P = 0.785).

Nd:YAG laser in occlusal caries prevention of primary teeth: a randomized clinical trial.

Dental caries is still the most prevalent chronic disease affecting human populations. Among the preventive treatments performed, it has been reported that laser irradiation combined with topical fluoride can induce an even greater increase in enamel caries resistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Nd:YAG laser, with or without fluoride, in occlusal caries prevention of the primary dentition. A double-blind split-mouth study design was used. Fifty-two children with high caries risk (7.6 ± 1.4 years) were selected and received the following: G1--the first molar was a negative control, and the second received a resin sealant; G2--the first molar was a negative control, and the second received laser irradiation (50 mJ, 10 Hz, 0.5 W); G3--the first molar received only acidulate phosphate fluoride (APF), and the second received APF + laser; G4--fisrt molar received only fluoride varnish, and the second received fluoride varnish + laser. Patients were followed up to 12 months to evaluate the presence of white-spot lesions and/or caries cavities by three calibrated observers. Thirty-five patients completed the study. Significant differences were found between the treatment and control groups (p < 0.05). The laser-alone and resin sealant resulted in statistically lower caries formation than the negative control group (p < 0.05). Nd:YAG laser irradiation in primary teeth effectively prevented occlusal caries in pits and fissures when used alone with lower energy over a 1-year period.

Analysis of the influence of implant shape on primary stability using the correlation of multiple methods.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of the shape of various implants and the density of substrate on primary stability using a combination of methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-four Neodent® brand cylindrical and conical implants with different prosthetic platforms were used. Implants were inserted into a pork rib bone and polyurethane blocks. Primary stability was assessed by insertion torque (IT), resonance frequency analysis (RFA), and pullout strength. Screws were also analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) before insertion and after removal to justify their use for inserting in different substrates. RESULTS: The conical cone morse implant had the highest average for all of the assays performed and was significantly different (p < 0.05) from the cylindrical implants for IT in the bone, pullout strength in the 40 per cubic foot (PCF) polyurethane, and the bone. The internal hex cylindrical implant had the lowest averages, which were significantly different (p < 0.05) from the conical implants for IT and RFA in the bone, pullout strength in the 40 PCF polyurethane, and the bone. The IT, RFA, and pullout strength assays were moderately correlated, and the photomicrographs did not reveal changes in the implants. CONCLUSIONS: The analysis of different implants showed a better primary stability of tapered implants; the density of the substrate influences the primary stability and the 15 PCF polyurethane was not adequate to evaluate primary stability; correlation was obtained between the different methodologies of analysis of primary stability. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The study shows the influence of different implant macro-geometries and densities of substrates on primary stability.

Influence of Er:YAG and ND:YAG laser irradiation and fluoride application on surface roughness and dentin surface wear after erosive challenge - An in vitro study.

Background: To evaluate the effectiveness of Er:YAG and Nd:YAG laser on dentin hypersensitivity prevention, associated or not to acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) after erosive challenge. Material and Methods: 104 specimens were obtained from bovine dentine and divided into groups (n=13): G1: Er:YAG; G2: Er:YAG followed by application of APF; G3: application of APF followed by Er:YAG, simultaneously; G4: Nd:YAG; G5: Nd:YAG followed by application of APF; G6: application of APF followed by Nd:YAG, simultaneously; G7:application of APF; G8: untreated. The parameters for Er:YAG were:10s, distance of 4mm, water cooling flow of 2mL/min, 2Hz, 3.92J/cm2. For the Nd:YAG: 10s, distance of 1mm, without cooling, 10Hz, 70.7J/cm2. The erosive drink was a cola at 4°C, 3×/day for 1 minute, for 5 days. Roughness and wear analysis were done in confocal laser microscope. Data were statistically analyzed (α=0.05). Results: As regards roughness, there was no statistically difference among the groups. The groups irradiated with Er:YAG had a volume loss lower. G6 showed higher values than the groups irradiated with Er:YAG and lower than the other groups. The other groups irradiated with Nd:YAG showed similar wear results to the control. Conclusions: The Er:YAG laser showed the lowest volume loss from wear analysis, suggesting the increased the acid resistance of dentin. Key words:Dentine sensitivity, Lasers, Sodium fluoride.

Influence of preventive remineralizing techniques on surface roughness and volume loss of dentin submitted to erosive and/or abrasive challenges.

Background: The objective this study was to evaluate the influence of preventive remineralizing techniques on surface roughness and volume loss of dentin submitted to erosive and/or abrasive challenges. Material and Methods: One hundred and eighty specimens of bovine root dentin were made; half of each was isolated (without treatment - WT) and half was subjected to the following remineralizing techniques: fluoride varnish (FV); Regenerate Boosting Serum® (RBS); Er,Cr:YSGG laser (L); fluoride varnish+laser (FV+L); Regenerate Boosting Serum®+laser (RBS+L). The specimens were submitted to erosive, abrasive and erosive followed by abrasive challenge. Erosion was carried out for 5 minutes, twice a day for 10 days. Abrasion was performed with an electric toothbrush and slurry solution for 60 seconds. The evaluation was performed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Analysis of variance and Tukey tests were used for surface roughness; volume loss comparison was performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and Dunn's post-hoc (p<0.05). Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the surface roughness of the reference area in relation to the areas submitted to different types of treatment and challenges (p>0.05). Regarding volume loss, the untreated group submitted to erosive/abrasive challenges showed greater percentage of volume loss compared to the other groups (p<0.05). Conclusions: It is concluded that preventive remineralizing techniques are effective in maintaining dentin volume after erosive/abrasive challenges. Key words:YSGG lasers, Dentin, Erosion, Tooth Abrasion.

Exploring the association between PITX2, third molars agenesis and sella turcica morphology : PITX2, third molars agenesis and sella turcica morphology.

OBJECTIVES: PITX2 is required for mammalian development and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in this gene could be involved in dental agenesis and sella turcica patterns. Thus, the present study evaluated the association between SNPs in PITX2, third molars agenesis and sella turcica phenotypes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The sample consisted of healthy orthodontic German patients with lateral cephalometric radiographs with clearly visualization of the sella turcica, and dental orthopantomograms. The morphological variations of the sella turcica were evaluated using the lateral cephalograms, while third molar agenesis was evaluated using orthopantomograms. DNA isolated from buccal cells was used for genotyping three SNPs in PITX2 (rs3796902, rs1947187, and rs2595110). The analyzes were performed using a significance of 5%. There was no association between third molar agenesis and sella turcica phenotypes (p > 0.05). SNPs in PITX2 were also not associated with third molars agenesis (p > 0.05). RESULTS: SNPs in PITX2 were associated with sella turcica phenotypes. The rs3796902 was associated with hypertrophic posterior clinoid process (p = 0.013). The rs1947187 and rs2595110 were associated with sella turcica bridge type A (p = 0.013 and p = 0.011, respectively for genotype distribution). Patients that carry the genotypes GG-CC-AG (rs3796902- rs1947187- rs2595110) had 7.2 higher chance to present sella turcica bridge type A (p = 0.002; Odds ratio = 7.2, Confidence interval 95% 2.04-27.04). CONCLUSIONS: Third molar agenesis was not associated with SNPs in PITX2 and sella turcica phenotypes. SNPs in PITX2 may have an important role in sella turcica pattern.

Is There Variation in the Morphology of the Frontal Sinus in Individuals with Different Craniofacial Patterns? A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

To evaluate differences in the morphology of the frontal sinus in adolescents and adults with different craniofacial patterns, searches up to April 2024 were conducted in six databases and other information sources to identify observational studies. Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment using the NOS scale were performed independently by two reviewers. Random effects meta-analyses were conducted to estimate the difference in frontal sinus measurements between different craniofacial skeletal patterns (α = 0.05). The certainty of the evidence was evaluated according to GRADE. Fourteen studies were included in the review. All studies had methodological limitations that affected their quality. The syntheses showed that skeletal Class II subjects presented a significantly smaller width of the frontal sinus than skeletal Class I subjects (MD = 0.56; 95% CI: 0.38, 0.74; p < 0.0001; I2 = 3%). Skeletal Class III subjects showed a frontal sinus width (MD = -0.91; 95% CI: -1.35, -0.47; p < 0.0001; I2 = 36%) and area (MD = -28.13; 95% CI: -49.03, -7.23; p = 0.0084; I2 = 66%) significantly larger than those of the skeletal Class I subjects. The available evidence suggests a positive relationship between mandibular and frontal sinus size. There is limited evidence to make reliable estimates of the association of other craniofacial patterns and frontal sinus characteristics. These reported results are not conclusive and should be evaluated carefully due to the very low certainty of the evidence. The current evidence is scarce and consists of studies with methodological limitations; the results of the studies are often inconsistent, and the pooled estimates are imprecise. New high-quality research is still necessary.

Association of defects of enamel with polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor and parathyroid hormone genes.

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between developmental defects of enamel (DDE) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and parathyroid hormone (PTH). Orthodontic patients receiving treatment at a dental school were selected through convenience sampling. Intra-oral photographs were used to assess DDE, which were classified according to the criteria proposed by Ghanim et al. (2015) by a single calibrated examiner (Kappa>0.80). Enamel hypoplasia, molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH), hypomimineralized second primary molar (HSPM), and non-MIH/HSPM demarcated opacities were considered for the analysis. Genomic DNA was extracted from buccal cells. The SNPs in VDR (rs7975232) and PHT (rs694, rs6256, and rs307247) were genotyped using real-time polymerase chain reactions (PCR). Statistical analyses were performed using the PLINK software (version 1.03, designed by Shaun Purcell, EUA). Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests were performed at a significance level of 5%. Ninety-one (n=91) patients (49 females and 42 males) (mean age of 14.1±5.8 years) were included. The frequency of DDE was 38.5% (35 patients). Genotype distributions were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. No significant statistical association was found between DDE and the SNPs evaluated. A borderline association (p=0.09) was observed between DDE and the CC haplotype for SNP rs7975232 in VDR. In conclusion, the selected SNPs in VDR and PTH genes were not associated with DDE in the studied samples.

Er,Cr:YSGG and 980nm diode lasers influence dentin surface volume after cariogenic challenge: in vitro study.

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation and 980-nm diode lasers on the surface roughness (SR) and volume loss (VL) of dentin subjected to cariogenic challenge. Subsequently, 130 specimens of bovine dentin were divided into the following 13 groups: NT: no treatment; FG: fluoride gel; FV: fluoride varnish; Di: 980-nm diode; Di + FG; Di + FV; FG + D; FV + Di; Er: Er,Cr:YSGG; Er + FG; Er + FV; FG + Er and FV + Er. Er,Cr:YSGG laser parameters were as follows: 0.25 W; 5.0 Hz; 4.46 J/cm2 without water and 55% air. Furthermore, the 980-nm diode laser parameters were 2.0 W; 2.0 Hz; 21.41 J/cm2. The samples from each group were subjected to pH cycling. A confocal laser scanning microscope was used to evaluate SR and VL. Difference between the volume of the reference and treated areas + DES/RE was used to determine SR and VL. The mean values of the different groups were subjected to analysis of variance and Tukey's post-hoc test. The VL values were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn post-hoc test (p < 0.05). The SR of the reference area did not show a statistically significant 1807-3107-bor-38-e025treatment and cariogenic challenge (p > 0.05). Moreover, VL in the FV + Di and FV + Er groups showed a statistically significant difference compared with areas submitted to different types of treatment and cariogenic challenge (p > 0.05). Er,Cr:YSGG and 980-nm diode lasers associated with fluoride varnishes decreased dentin VL in bovine teeth submitted to cariogenic challenge.

Correlation between fluoride release, surface hardness and diametral tensile strength of restorative glass ionomer cements.

Background: The aim of this study was to determine if there is a correlation between fluoride release, surface hardness, and diametral tensile strength of restorative glass ionomer cements (GICs). Material and Methods: Conventional (Riva Self Cure) and resin-modified (Riva Light Cure) GICs were used. Thirty-four samples (ø 6 x 3 mm) were prepared for each cement. The kinetics of fluoride release (n=4) was evaluated over 28 days using a fluoride-selective electrode (ISE 4010-C00). The analysis of surface hardness (n=10) was performed using a microhardness tester (Shimadzu HMV-2000, Japan) with a Knoop indenter and a load of 25 gf for 30 seconds. The diametral tensile strength test (n=10) was conducted on a universal testing machine at a speed of 0.75 mm/min. Fluoride release data were analyzed by two-way repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test, while independent t-test was used for other analyses (α=0.05). Results: Overall, the groups showed higher fluoride release until day 7 and a progressive decrease until day 28. On day 1 and day 21, Riva Self Cure showed a higher level of release than Riva Light Cure (p=0.026). Riva Light Cure showed higher diametral tensile strength (p<0.0001) and surface hardness (p=0.034) than Riva Self Cure. A negative correlation was found, indicating that higher fluoride release is associated with lower surface hardness and diametral tensile strength. Conclusion: Fluoride release and mechanical performance are related properties of GICs, and these properties exhibit different values depending on the type of material. Resin-modified GIC release less fluoride but exhibit better mechanical performance compared to conventional GIC. Key words:Diametral Tensile Strength, Fluoride, Glass Ionomer Cement, Surface Hardness.

Frequency and variability of nonmetric dental crown traits of primary and permanent molars in a group of orthodontic patients.

BACKGROUND: The present study aimed to assess the frequency and variation of 13 nonmetric dental crown traits (NDCT) in permanent and primary molars in German orthodontic patients. METHODS: Dental records from orthodontic patients were screened and evaluated. First and second permanent and primary upper and lower molars (from left and right sides) were assessed. Teeth with cavitated dental caries, occlusal wear, restorations and obvious dental deformities were not evaluated. The NDCT for permanent molars were identified and scored according to the odontoscopic system developed by Arizona State University Dental Anthropology System (ASUDAS). The NDCT for primary molars were identified and scored according to ASUDAS, Hanihara's method and Sciulli's method. The χ2 test was used to investigate side preference and sexual dimorphism at a significance level of p ≤ 0.050. RESULTS: A total of 163 orthodontic patients (82 males and 81 females) aged 8-14 years were included. A sexual dimorphism was observed for the hypocone in first upper permanent molar (p = 0.041). The protostylid was observed in lower permanent molars (range 2.1-10%). Males presented more hypoconulid than females (p = 0.019). Only females presented the distal trigonid crest in lower first permanent molars (p = 0.002). The most common groove pattern in primary molars was Y; male presented more Y grade than females in the lower second primary molar (p = 0.039). Asymmetry was observed in some traits, ranging from 0 to 100%. CONCLUSION: The present study showed the frequency of NDCT of molars in German orthodontic patients and demonstrated that some traits present sexual dimorphism.

Influence of Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation on enamel caries prevention.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of chromium:yttrium-scandium-gallium-garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser irradiation on the acid resistance of dental enamel. Forty human enamel samples were divided into four groups. They were manually irradiated with an Er,Cr:YSGG laser device (λ = 2.78 µm, 20 Hz, 20 s), in a scanning mode, with and without water cooling, according to the following parameters: Group 1: 0.25 W, 62.5 J/cm(2), no water cooling; group 2: 0.25 W, 62.5 J/cm(2), 5.0 ml/min; group 3: 0.5 W, 125 J/cm(2), no water cooling; group 4: 0.5 W, 125 J/cm(2), 5.0 ml/min. No airflow was used. Afterwards, the samples were submitted to an acid challenge and assessed by cross-sectional Knoop microhardness at different depths (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 µm) from the outer enamel surface. Average values were obtained for both irradiated and control areas in each sample and they were compared to obtain a percentage of microhardness increase. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Fisher's exact test (α = 5%). The percentage of microhardness increase observed in group 1 (+23.58%) was similar to group 3 (+19.12%), but higher than groups 2 (+3.61%) and 4 (10.9%) (p < 0.05). The comparison of the depths showed that the Er,Cr:YSGG laser acted in the superficial layers of the dental enamel. The findings of the present study suggest that the energy densities of 62.5 and 125 J/cm(2) were capable of increasing the acid resistance of human enamel. The presence of water during irradiation makes it difficult to obtain an enamel surface more resistant to acids.

Association between craniofacial patterns and third molar agenesis in orthodontic patients.

PURPOSE: Third molar agenesis (TMA) is the most common craniofacial anomaly and has been associated with craniofacial patterns in different populations. Therefore, the aim of this retrospective cross-sectional study was to assess a possible association between craniofacial patterns and TMA in German orthodontic patients. METHODS: Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with dental records including anamnesis, pretreatment lateral cephalograms and orthopantomograms were evaluated. Cephalometric analyses were conducted digitally and lines, angles and proportions were measured to investigate craniofacial morphology. Skeletal classes were determined by the individualised Wits appraisal and ANB angle. The TMA was identified with the help of orthopantomograms. Patients showing agenesis of at least one third molar were included in the TMA group. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the association between TMA and craniofacial patterns (α of p ≤ 0.05). RESULTS: A total of 148 patients were included, 40 (27.0%) presented at least one missing tooth (TMA group) and 108 (73.0%) showed full dentition (control group). Skeletal class determined by the individualised Wits appraisal revealed statistical significance between the TMA and control groups (p = 0.022), in which TMA patients were 11 times more likely to present with an individualised skeletal class III (odds ratio 11.3, 95% confidence interval 1.7-139.5). Skeletal cephalometric analysis revealed no statistical differences between TMA and control groups for any further angular, linear and proportional parameters. CONCLUSION: Third molar agenesis was associated with skeletal class III determined by the individualised Wits appraisal.

Effect of the Case for Carpule as a Visual Passive Distraction Tool on Dental Fear and Anxiety: A Pilot Study.

The present cross-over study aimed to evaluate the effect of a visual passive distraction tool, a case for carpule, in the management of fear and anxiety during invasive dental treatment. Children between the ages of 4 and 8 years that need at least two treatments with inferior alveolar nerve block were selected. All the included children received two treatments at different moments: in one treatment, local anesthesia was performed with a visual passive distraction tool, the crocodile case, for carpule (experimental); in the other treatment, local anesthesia was performed without the device (control). An evaluation of the anxiety levels was performed by measuring the heart rate and salivary cortisol levels. Wilcoxon's nonparametric test was used for a data analysis (p < 0.05). The mean heart rate with the visual passive distraction device fell from 81.8 to 78.1, while the control rose from 91.4 to 100 (p < 0.05). The mean salivary cortisol levels with the visual passive distraction device fell from 2.0 to 1.6, while in the control, they rose from 2.1 to 2.4 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the crocodile case for carpule as a visual passive distraction device contributed positively to the management of fear and anxiety during inferior alveolar nerve block in children.

Prevalence and local causes for retention of primary teeth and the associated delayed permanent tooth eruption.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of retained primary teeth (RPT) associated with delayed permanent tooth eruption and the factors associated with this condition in German children. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional retrospective study that evaluated panoramic radiographs from orthodontic patients. The diagnosis of RPT was established according to Nolla developmental stage. The primary tooth was considered retained when its successor permanent tooth was in Nolla stage 8, 9, or 10. Statistical analysis was performed with an α of 5% (p < 0.05). RESULTS: A total of 102 children (48 girls and 54 boys), and 574 primary teeth and their respective permanent successor teeth were evaluated. We classified 192 teeth as RPT. Sixty-one (59.8%) children presented one or more RPT. Gender was not significantly different between RPT and control teeth (p = 0.838; odds ratio 0.95, confidence interval 95% 0.44-2.16). In the majority of the RPT cases (68.7%), no clear cause to explain the prolonged retention was identified. The pathological problems most commonly observed with RPT were dental fillings (19.3%), followed by dental caries (4.6%), and ectopic tooth eruption (2.1%). CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of RPT associated with delayed permanent tooth eruption in German children was high and the most common pathological condition associated with RPT was dental caries.

Transforming Growth Factor Beta Receptor 2 (TGFBR2) Promoter Region Polymorphisms May Be Involved in Mandibular Retrognathism.

Skeletal malocclusions are common phenotypes in humans and have a strong influence on genetic factors. Transforming growth factor beta (TGFß) controls numerous functions of the human body, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. Thus, this study is aimed at evaluating whether genetic polymorphisms in TGFB1 and its receptor TGFBR2 are associated with mandibular retrognathism in German children and adolescents. Children and teenagers older than 8 years in the mixed or permanent dentition were included in this study. Patients with syndromes and facial trauma and patients with congenital alterations were excluded. Digital cephalometric tracings were performed using the anatomical landmarks point A, point B, sella (S), and nasion (N). Patients that have a retrognathic mandible (SNB < 78°) were selected as case group, and the patients with an orthognathic mandible (SNB = 78°- 82°) were selected as the control group. Genomic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) from saliva was used to evaluate four genetic polymorphisms in TGFB1 (rs1800469 and rs4803455) and TGBR2 (rs3087465 and rs764522) using real-time PCR. Chi-square or Fisher exact tests were used to compare gender, genotype, and allele distribution among groups. Genotype distribution was calculated in an additive and recessive model. Haplotype analysis was also performed. The established alpha of this study was 5%. A total of 146 patients (age ranging from 8 to 18 years) were included in this epidemiological genetic study. The genetic polymorphism rs3087465 in TGFBR2 was associated with mandibular retrognathism. Carrying the AA genotype in the rs3087465 polymorphism decreased the chance of having mandibular retrognathism (odds ratio = 0.25, confidence interval 95% = 0.06 to 0.94, p = 0.045). None of the haplotypes was associated with mandibular retrognathism (p > 0.05). In conclusion, we found that the genetic polymorphism rs3087465 in the promoter region of the TGFBR2 was associated with mandibular retrognathism in Germans.

Effects of Different Forms of Denture Adhesives on Biofilm Formation, Adhesive Strength and Hygiene of Complete Dentures.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of different forms of denture adhesives on the formation of biofilm and on adhesive strength, as well as the effectiveness of hygiene protocols for their removal. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Samples of the heat-cured polymethyl methacrylate denture base resin were made and divided into four groups: control (no adhesive), ultra Corega cream, Corega strip adhesive, and ultra Corega powder (GlaxoSmithKline). Biofilm formation was evaluated by counting colony-forming units and fluorescence microscopy. To evaluate the effectiveness of the hygiene protocols, the samples were divided into five subgroups: brushing with distilled water; brushing with Protex soap; brushing with Colgate toothpaste; immersion in Corega Tabs; and immersion in Corega Tabs followed by brushing with the solution itself. The remaining adhesive was quantified with ImageJ software. The adhesive strength was tested at different time intervals after application. After verifying the data distribution using Shapiro-Wilk test, parametric or nonparametric analysis was applied (α = .05). RESULTS: Candida albicans formed more biofilm in strip (P = .007) and powder (P = .001), Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cream (P < .001) and powder (P < .001), and Staphylococcus aureus in strip (P < .001). All forms of the adhesives promoted higher biofilm formation when compared to control (P = .003). Brushing with Colgate and Protex was most effective for removing the adhesives (P < .05). Independently, Powder had the highest adhesive strength (P < .05). Only Strip showed a change in adhesive strength, with higher values after 3 hours of application (P = .004). CONCLUSION: Daily treatments with mechanical cleaning of the prosthesis are important for removing the adhesives, since the presence of this material can favor biofilm accumulation. The adhesive strength may vary depending on the commercial type, but all forms can be effective in retaining prostheses for a satisfactory period of time.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in COX2 Is Associated with Persistent Primary Tooth and Delayed Permanent Tooth Eruption.

Persistent primary tooth (PPT) is a prevalent clinical condition that occurs when a primary tooth is over-retained beyond the established period of its normal exfoliation time, remaining in the oral cavity. Many factors could be involved in the risk of PPT; therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate if single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the COX2 gene are associated with PPT. Children undergoing orthodontic treatment were screened. Orthopantomographs were assessed to evaluate PPT according to the Nolla stage of its permanent successor. The primary tooth was considered retained when its successor permanent tooth was in Nolla stage 8 and below the alveolar crypt, Nolla stage 9, or Nolla stage 10. A saliva sample from each child was collected and used for DNA extraction. A real-time PCR of two SNPs, rs689466 (-1195 G/A) and rs5275 (+665 T/C), was performed. A chi-square test was used to compare the allele and genotype distribution. Haplotype analysis was also performed. A total of 100 children were included in the study. Fifty-one had at least one PPT, while 49 children were classified as a control. The number of teeth persistent in the oral cavity ranged from 1 to 8. The genotype distribution was associated with PPT in the co-dominant model (p = 0.006) for SNP rs5275. The individuals that carry two T alleles (TT) compared with the individuals that carry at least one C allele (C + TC) had an almost three times higher chance of presenting with PPT (p = 0.012; OR = 2.99, CI95% 1.28 to 6.95-recessive model). The haplotype C-A for the SNPs rs5275 and rs689466, respectively, was significantly associated (p = 0.042). In conclusion, single nucleotide polymorphisms in the gene encoding for COX2 are associated with persistent primary tooth and may delay permanent tooth eruption.