Incidence of Maxillary Sinus Disorders in Dental Patients Undergoing Cone-Beam Computed Tomography: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was quickly adopted in dentistry settings due to its compact size, low cost, and minimal ionizing radiation dose when compared to medical computed tomography. CBCT generates three-dimensional (3D) images that are useful in a variety of oral and maxillofacial circumstances, including diagnosis and assessment of disease severity, treatment planning and delivery, and follow-up. A significant advantage of CBCT lies in its capability to recognize incidental findings. In the realm of dental CBCT imaging, incidental findings often involve the maxillary sinuses, temporomandibular joints, or other craniofacial structures. Objective  To demonstrate the incidental findings of maxillary sinus disorders in dental patients undergoing CBCT for numerous indications. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out using data extracted from the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) of Pure Smile Dental Center and Dental College Teaching Hospitals in the Jazan region from September to December 2022. The study sample included a total of 70 patients who underwent orthodontics CBCT, most of whom were female (76%). Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, USA), along with descriptive statistics. Furthermore, chi-square tests and cross-tabulation were done to assess the relation between the study variables. A p-value <0.01 and <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The most common dental CBCT findings were root invasion (18.6%), followed by gingivitis (7.14%), and dental caries (4.29%). Of the 70 patients, 42 (60%) had maxillary sinus findings, including opacification (50%), sinusitis (40%), mucosal thickening (34.3%), and polyps (7.1%). Female patients had more frequency of incidental findings related to males (41.43% and 18.57%, respectively). Conclusion A high percentage of dental patients exhibited incidental maxillary sinus findings in CBCT scans, confirming the utility of CBCT as a precise imaging method for detecting paranasal sinus disorders. A holistic documentation of incidental findings is crucial for improving patient outcomes and treatment plans.

Current Trends of Nanotechnology in Orthodontics.

The branch of science known as nanotechnology studies the manipulation of matter at the nanoscale. The field of nanotechnology is expanding daily and has shown great promise in all areas of medicine, including dentistry. Because of its many uses, including nanocoatings in brackets and archwires, orthodontic bonding, antimicrobial qualities, and atomic force microscopy, it has also become more significant in the field of orthodontics. Some of its potential uses in the future include shape-memory polymers, gene therapy-induced stimulation of mandibular growth, accelerating orthodontic movement, and biomechanical sensors. The capacity of nanotechnology to improve material qualities, particularly antimicrobial properties, has led to its increased prominence in recent years. Many areas of orthodontics can benefit from the application of nanotechnology. This paper focuses on the impact of nanomaterials on orthodontic appliances and treatment.

Spontaneous space closure after extraction of permanent first molars in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Extraction of the permanent first molars is sometimes necessitated in children and adolescents due to deep carious lesions or developmental defects. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of spontaneous space closure after extraction of permanent first molars and identify factors associated with it. SEARCH METHODS: Unrestricted searches in five databases for human studies until February 2024. SELECTION CRITERIA: Longitudinal before-and-after (cohort) human studies assessing eruption of the permanent second molars and spontaneous space closure after extraction of the permanent first molar. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were performed in duplicate. Random-effects meta-analyses of average spontaneous space closure prevalences and odds ratios (OR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were performed, followed by meta-regression/sensitivity/reporting biases' analyses and evaluation of our confidence in effect estimates. RESULTS: Sixteen reports pertaining to 15 studies (1 prospective /14 retrospective) were included covering 1159 patients (ages 5.5-15.0 years [mean 10.0 years]; 45% male on average) and 2310 permanent second molars. The prevalence of spontaneous space closure was higher in the maxilla (nine studies; 85.3%; 95% CI = 73.7%-92.3%) than the mandible (11 studies; 48.1%; 95% CI = 34.5%-62.0%) to a significant extent (nine studies; OR = 7.77; 95% CI = 4.99-12.11; P < 0.001). For both maxillary/mandibular second molars, Demirjian category E was associated with increased space closure odds than earlier/later stages (P < 0.05). Spontaneous space closure in the mandible was seen more often for patients ages 8-10 years (compared with older patients; three studies; OR = 3.32; 95% CI = 1.73-6.36; P < 0.001) and when the mandibular permanent third molar was present (four studies; OR = 2.28; 95% CI = 1.67-3.09; P = 0.003). Additional analyses failed to find any significant modifying factors. LIMITATIONS: The quality of evidence was very low in all instances due to the inclusion of retrospective studies with methodological issues. CONCLUSIONS: Existing evidence indicates that spontaneous space closure in children and adolescents after extraction of the permanent first molar is seen more often in the maxilla than the mandible. Extraction of the permanent first molar at the Demirjian stage E of the second molar and presence of the lower permanent third molar is associated with increased odds of space closure, but uncertainty persists, due to methodological issues of existing studies. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO (CRD42023395371).

Have orthodontists changed their retention and follow-up protocols due to contemporary orthodontics? An online survey.

Background: With advancements in orthodontic technology, treatment durations have shortened, often concluding at earlier ages. This shift prompts scrutiny of contemporary retention and post-treatment protocols. The study aimed to assess current professional preferences, compare them against patient age and treatment duration, and investigate the potential impacts of reduced treatment times on professional protocols, particularly when treatment concludes before pubertal growth. Methods: A questionnaire comprising 12 multiple-choice questions focused on active treatment and retention phases was developed using an online survey platform. It was distributed to licensed orthodontists engaged in patient treatment. Bivariate analysis was conducted using ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis test, with pairwise comparisons facilitated by the Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner method. Results: Of 743 respondents, representing a 32% response rate, approximately 70% reported initiating treatment with fixed appliances in pre-pubertal patients. The most prevalent treatment combination involved commencing treatment during early permanent dentition and lasting between 12 to 24 months, resulting in treatment completion before full growth maturation. No discernible individualization was observed in retention protocols or post-retention follow-ups. Traditional retainer prescription post-orthodontic therapy was unanimous among respondents. Notably, experienced orthodontists tended to prefer regular patient visits for follow-up, while less experienced counterparts discharged patients after 12 months. Conclusion: Contemporary orthodontic treatments are characterized by shorter durations, yet orthodontists have not adopted retention and post-treatment follow-up practices accordingly. There is a pressing need for evidence-based guidelines to develop protocols tailored to the shorter treatment durations and the increasing prevalence of younger patients completing treatment.

Direction and Range of Condylar Positional Changes in the First-Year Post-surgical Orthodontics Interventions in Adult Patients with Skeletal Class III Deformity: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Objectives: Assess the available scientific literature regarding the direction and extent of condylar positional changes during the first year of post-surgical orthodontics interventions in class III patients. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Google Scholar databases were searched up to March 2022 for studies involving the measurement of condylar positional changes after surgical treatment of Class III dentofacial deformity in adults with BSSO without or without Le Fort I osteotomies. The methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) was utilized to assess the risk of bias and quality of non-randomized studies. Reporting of this review was based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Primary outcome was condyle positional changes between the following time points: T0: before treatment, T1: immediately post treatment, T2: 4, 6, or 9 months post treatment, T3: one year post treatment. Results: Nineteen studies were included in the systematic review. Eleven studies were deemed low quality, and the rest were of medium quality. The meta-analysis included 12 studies and showed statistically significant downward, outward positional changes at T1(Immediately after surgery). Inward Yaw rotation was significant at T1(1-4 month post-surgery) and T2(4-9 months post-surgery). Conclusion: Surgically induced condylar changes tend to go back to normal within the first year after surgery, except for condylar yaw rotations.

Comparative Clinical Outcomes in the Treatment of Anterior Crossbite Using Three Different Appliances: A Case Series.

Anterior crossbite, a misalignment of the upper front teeth in which the bite is behind the lower front teeth, is a common dental condition in mixed dentition. This case series examines the clinical results of three orthodontic appliances, namely Catlan's appliance, the removable finger-spring appliance, and the 2x4 appliance, in the management of anterior crossbite. The first case study involves a seven-year-old patient with a single-tooth crossbite. The patient was treated using a 2x4 appliance, which resulted in a satisfactory correction of the problem within a reasonable treatment duration. The therapy was comfortable for the patient and resulted in high patient satisfaction levels. The second case involves a nine-year-old patient with a crossbite on both of their permanent central incisors. The patient was treated using a Catlan's appliance, which had the shortest treatment duration but resulted in the highest level of discomfort. The third case study focuses on a nine-year-old patient with a single-tooth crossbite. The condition can arise from dental or skeletal disparities and, if not managed, can cause periodontal damage, aberrant enamel erosion, and temporomandibular joint disorders. Prompt intervention using various appliances is essential for rectifying the crossbite and averting potential consequences. This study uniquely compares Catlan's appliance, the removable finger-spring appliance, and the 2x4 appliance, each distinct in design and application, and evaluates a range of outcome measures, including treatment duration, occlusal improvement, patient comfort, and adverse effects. All three appliances, such as Catlan's appliance, the removable finger-spring appliance, and the 2x4 appliance, are effective in correcting anterior crossbite, demonstrating that multiple treatment options can achieve successful outcomes.

Changes in Periodontal Tissues With Periodontally Accelerated Orthodontics: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Periodontally accelerated orthodontic (PAO) therapy has been found to increase hard tissue, helping to decrease orthodontic relapse rates and improve retention capacity. The aim of this study was to synthesize available evidence on clinical and tomographic changes in periodontal tissues when using PAO techniques. A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement and registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). The search was carried out in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Randomized and non-randomized clinical trials comparing PAO versus conventional orthodontics were included. Quality assessment was performed using the Downs & Black scale, and the risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and the mean difference was divided by a t-test. During the initial search, 465 studies were identified. Five articles studying 130 patients were included, which assessed both clinical and tomographic changes, along with treatment duration. PAO was administered to patients with skeletal class III in three studies, to class II patients in one study, and to individuals with dental crowding in another study. Two studies showed a moderate risk of bias, and the rest showed a low risk. The meta-analysis revealed a vestibular bone thickness increase of 0.32 mm (0.56-008; P = 0.008), a reduction of 3.12 mm (2.15-4.08; P= 0.001) in gingival retraction, and a treatment duration that was 7.07 months (8.79-5.36; P = 0.001) shorter in patients subjected to PAO compared to those undergoing conventional orthodontic treatment. Considering the limitations of the study and acknowledging that definitive conclusions cannot be drawn, the findings suggest that treatment time decreased in patients undergoing PAO, with an increase in vestibular bone thickness and less gingival retraction observed in those undergoing this intervention.

Pertinence of Five Different Regression Equations of Mixed Dentition Analysis in West Godavari District Children: A Comparative Study.

Aim and background: The orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning are the fundamental goals during the mixed dentition period. Numerous methods have been proposed to date. The study was designed to determine the mesiodistal (MD) widths of the lower permanent canines and premolars from Tanaka and Johnston, regression equation (RE) proposed for north Indian population (RE-NIP), Bernabé and Flores-Mir C, Moyers', and Ling and Wong mixed dentition analysis (MDA) and to determine the correlation coefficients for the Eluru population. Materials and methods: The study population was selected using cluster random sampling. A total of 3,572 children were clinically examined from the Outpatient Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, St Joseph Dental College and Hospital, Eluru district, Andhra Pradesh. Out of these, 140 children aged 11-16 years were randomly selected for the study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The MD width of permanent incisors, canines, premolars, and molars was measured with the help of a digital vernier caliper; summed up and compared with the above-mentioned REs. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS version 22, employing Student's t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: The RE-NIP underestimated the values, whereas the remaining equations overestimated the sum of permanent canines and premolars in both arches in the study population. Conclusion: The predicted values obtained from the abovementioned methods overestimated the actual values, and a new RE for the Eluru population should be suggested to better represent the size of unerupted canines and premolars. Clinical significance: Measuring the MD widths of the upper and lower permanent incisors and molars during the mixed dentition period from different REs will help a pedodontist in proper treatment planning to predict the MD width of unerupted canines and premolars. How to cite this article: Kanaparthi S, Done V, P Madu GS, et al. Pertinence of Five Different Regression Equations of Mixed Dentition Analysis in West Godavari District Children: A Comparative Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):871-876.

Current Trends in Pediatric Orthodontics: A Comprehensive Review.

Pediatric orthodontics is a critical field focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities in children. This comprehensive review explores current trends and methodologies in pediatric orthodontics and discusses the multifactorial etiology of malocclusions, including genetic, environmental, and disease-related factors. The importance of proper diagnosis is highlighted, and the extraoral, intraoral, and functional evaluations essential for effective treatment planning are detailed. Various orthodontic conditions such as Class III and Class II malocclusions, abnormal oral habits, arch length discrepancies, anterior and posterior crossbites, open bites, and deep bites are examined in depth. The review also addresses the role of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in pediatric patients, emphasizing the need for early and accurate diagnosis to facilitate appropriate intervention. The use of clear aligners in early orthodontic intervention is evaluated given their efficacy and improved patient satisfaction compared to traditional appliances. Additionally, the article discusses the non-advisability of early interception for certain self-correcting malocclusions and the limitations of pediatric orthodontic treatment, including compliance-related issues and the unique anatomical considerations of deciduous dentition. This review aims to provide a detailed understanding of contemporary practices and challenges in pediatric orthodontics, offering insights for clinicians to enhance treatment outcomes and patient care.

A Bibliometric Analysis of 100 Top-cited Articles on Cleft Orthodontics.

OBJECTIVE: This bibliometric study seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the 100 most frequently cited articles in the domain of cleft orthodontics. The analysis will reveal key influential publications, collaborative author networks, and identify prevailing research themes within the field. METHOD: The studies related to Orthodontics in the realm of cleft lip and palate (CLP) were retrieved from the Scopus database on 30th August 2024 using key terms. The results obtained were sorted in descending order of citations and the 100 top-cited articles were hand-filtered. RStudio software version 4.2.0 and Bibliometrix R-package was used for performing scientometrics involving co-citation, co-occurrence, collaboration and co-word analyses, bibliographic coupling and network mapping. RESULTS: A total of n = 3984 articles were retrieved from which top-100 cited articles were filtered. These documents were published during 1950-2019 with peak production in 1997. The United States and the Netherlands were the most prolific countries involved in the given research. The majority of the highly referenced articles pertained to alveolar bone grafting, and treatment outcomes being the second common focus followed by Infant and early orthopedics (Naso-alveolar moulding, Maxillary Protraction) and facial growth during the given period. CONCLUSIONS: Thematic mapping depicted bone grafting, alveoloplasty (infant orthopedics) and maxillofacial development as the more developed core topics than the psychology and self-perception of patients with CLP. Recent research trends have shifted towards three-dimensional assessment methods.

The Impact of Orthodontic Adhesive Containing Resveratrol, Silver, and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Shear Bond Strength: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction The goal of orthodontic treatment is to provide patients with esthetic smiles and functional occlusion. Despite best efforts and continuous evolution of materials, white spot lesions present a persistent hindrance to the desired treatment outcome. Nanoparticles have shown efficacy in reducing microbial activity; however, currently, there is a need for natural anti-cariogenic compounds with minimal side effects. Resveratrol is a natural compound belonging to the polyphenol group and has shown promising anti-microbial efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of dentin bonding agents incorporated with the following three different nanoparticles on shear bond strength: silver nanoparticles (Ag-Np), zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-Np), and resveratrol nanoparticles (RSV-Np). Materials and methods A total of 40 premolar teeth therapeutically extracted were assigned to four equal groups of n=10 each. Groups 1, 2, and 3 used experimental adhesives doped with silver, zinc oxide, and resveratrol nanoparticles, respectively. Group 4 was bonded using unmodified adhesive. The bonded teeth were then subjected to shear bond strength (SBS) testing which was measured using a Universal Testing Machine (model no. UNITEST-10; Pune, India: ACME Engineers). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 21 (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.), employing one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test for pairwise comparisons. Results Shear bond strength testing revealed that the control group with unmodified adhesive (8.6 MPa) had the highest SBS, followed by RSV-Np (7.6 MPa), Ag-Np (6.3 MPa), and ZnO-Np (5.65 MPa). Although the experimental groups demonstrated decreased SBS compared to the control, the values for Ag-Np and RSV-Np fell within the acceptable range. Conclusion Resveratrol nanoparticles had the least impact on shear bond strength among the experimental groups. These findings suggest that the incorporation of resveratrol nanoparticles in dentin bonding agents can provide anti-cariogenic effect without significantly impacting the adhesive's mechanical properties thereby providing a new and promising alternative to synthetic nanoparticles. Further studies are recommended to optimize the balance between anti-microbial efficacy and bond strength in clinical applications.

Honoring Professor Hugo Lorenz Obwegeser: A Visionary in Maxillofacial Surgery and Orthodontics.

Hugo Lorenz Obwegeser was a pioneering Austrian surgeon whose contributions profoundly transformed the field of maxillofacial surgery. His groundbreaking work marked a pivotal turning point, enabling more sophisticated and effective corrections of facial deformities. Obwegeser revolutionized his area of expertise by introducing innovative osteotomies of the mandible and maxilla, which became foundational techniques for addressing facial asymmetries. In addition to his surgical advancements, Obwegeser was a key figure in establishing the European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery, helping to define the modern scope of the specialty. His legacy in maxillofacial surgery is distinguished by his unwavering commitment to innovation, mentorship, and the continuous advancement of surgical practices. This article aims to honor the extraordinary achievements of Hugo Lorenz Obwegeser and his lasting impact on the field of maxillofacial surgery.

Reporting Quality of Abstracts in Systematic Reviews in Orthodontics: An Observational Study.

AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the reporting quality of systematic review (SR) abstracts in leading orthodontic journals using the PRISMA abstract criteria. Additionally, the study examined characteristics associated with improved abstract reporting quality. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective observational study design was employed. Systematic reviews published between January 2018 and December 2022 in four prominent orthodontic journals were identified through electronic and manual searches. Inclusion criteria focused on articles with "SR" or "meta-analysis" keywords in the title or abstract. Narrative and historical reviews, scoping reviews, and case reports with extensive literature reviews were not considered as part of the exclusion criteria. The screening was carried out in duplicate and independently by the two authors. RESULTS: The European Journal of Orthodontics had the highest number of included articles, while the Journal of Orthodontics had the lowest. The majority of SRs had authors affiliated with academic institutions. Compliance scores varied across journals and regions, with Asia scoring the highest. Certain checklist items, such as identifying the report as an SR, stating objectives, describing included studies, providing interpretation, and registration, were adequately reported in over 93% of the reviews. However, the reporting of risk of bias and synthesis of results showed room for improvement. CONCLUSION: The study revealed a significant improvement in the overall Preferred Reporting Items for SRs and Meta-Analyses for Abstracts (PRISMA-A) score of included SRs, primarily due to enhanced reporting of specific checklist items. However, there remains considerable scope for further improvement in abstract reporting, highlighting the importance of striving to meet higher standards in SR abstracts. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The study showed a notable increase in the PRISMA-A score. However, there is still a need for continued efforts to meet higher reporting standards in SR abstracts. How to cite this article: Alharbi F, Alghabban RO. Reporting Quality of Abstracts in Systematic Reviews in Orthodontics: An Observational Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(5):459-462.

Orthodontic treatment in patients with atypical swallowing and malocclusion: a systematic review.

This review aimed to analyze the correlation between atypical swallowing and malocclusions and how this dysfunction can be treated. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement was followed to conduct this systematic review, and the protocol was registered at International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with the CRD42024499707. A thorough search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science to find papers that discussed myofunctional and orthodontic treatment for patients with atypical swallowing and malocclusion from 01 January 2003 to 27 November 2023. The search yielded 2554 articles, of which only 12 records were selected for qualitative analysis. The analysis of these articles revealed that orofacial myofunctional therapy, criab appliance, Habit corrector™, and soft tongue restrainers are potential therapies for treating atypical swallowing and malocclusions. The tongue's position affects muscle behavior, leading to malocclusions that can be treated with various therapies, resulting in effective clinical outcomes. However, more research is required to delve deeper into the topic.

Nanotechnology and Its Application in Dentistry: A Systematic Review of Recent Advances and Innovations.

Background: This study looks at the clinical applications of nanotechnology in dentistry, with an emphasis on implantology, preventive care, orthodontics, restorative dentistry, and endodontics. Methods: Following PRISMA criteria and registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD 564245), a PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science search was conducted for studies from January 2014 to April 2024. The criteria were English-language research on nanotechnology in dental coatings, with a focus on clinical trials and observational studies. The electronic database search yielded 8881 publications. Following the screening process, 17 records were selected for qualitative analysis. Results: Nanotechnology has revolutionized dentistry. In orthodontics, nanoparticles improve antibacterial characteristics, durability, and biocompatibility, lowering bacterial colonization and plaque. In preventative care, Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate (CPP-ACP) combined with stannous fluoride (SnF2) and nano-sized sodium trimetaphosphate (TMPnano) substantially remineralizes enamel. Nanostructured surfaces in dental implants, particularly those containing calcium, improve osseointegration and stability. Nanoparticles in restorative dentistry improve composite and adhesive strength, aesthetics, and longevity. Conclusions: Nanotechnology improves dental materials and equipment, resulting in better treatment outcomes and increased patient comfort. Its integration provides more effective treatments, which improves dental care and patient outcomes. More research is needed to overcome present problems and expand nanotechnology's medicinal applications.

Towards Sustainable Orthodontics: Environmental Implications and Strategies for Clear Aligner Therapy.

The increasing concern over environmental sustainability has prompted various industries to reassess their practices and explore greener alternatives. Dentistry, as a significant contributor to waste generation, is actively seeking methods to minimize its environmental footprint. This paper examines the environmental implications of clear aligner therapy (CAT) in orthodontics and explores strategies to prioritize sustainability in aligner manufacturing and usage. CAT has gained popularity as a viable alternative to traditional fixed appliances due to advancements in biomaterials and computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing (CAM) technologies. The global market for clear aligners is expanding rapidly, with significant growth projected in the coming years. To address these challenges, this paper proposes adopting the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle, and rethink (4Rs) in orthodontic practices. Strategies such as minimizing resource consumption, incorporating recycled materials, and promoting proper aligner disposal and recycling can significantly reduce environmental harm. This paper explores emerging technologies and materials to mitigate the environmental impacts of CAT. Additionally, initiatives promoting aligner recycling and repurposing offer promising avenues for reducing plastic waste and fostering a circular economy. In conclusion, while CAT offers numerous benefits in orthodontic treatment, its environmental impact cannot be overlooked. By implementing sustainable practices and embracing innovative solutions, the orthodontic community can contribute to a more environmentally conscious future while continuing to provide quality care to patients.

Evaluating the Impact of Different Education Methods on Cleft Lip and Palate Anatomy Training.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of different educational methods on short and long-term learning outcomes and to investigate the satisfaction and perception of cleft lip and palate (CLP) education among dental students. DESIGN: The theoretical exam on CLP to determine their baseline level of knowledge was taken by the participants(T0). After the exam, the students were randomly divided into three groups and all students attended a lecture-based traditional education on CLP. Students in the first group (n = 40) received no additional teaching (Group A). Students in the second group (n = 38) received model teaching with 3D-printed models (Group B). The third group (n = 39) was trained in e-learning-supported education (Group C). The theoretical exam was repeated immediately after the education (T1/short-term learning), one week later (T2/early long-term learning), and one month later (T3/late long-term learning), and the effect of the education methods on information level was assessed. In addition, a post-training satisfaction questionnaire was administered to participants of Group B and Group C. RESULTS: Both 3D model-based and e-learning-supported approaches significantly improved immediate knowledge of CLP. However, no significant differences were found in knowledge retention over time between the all methods. A majority of students favored the incorporation of both methods in orthodontic education. CONCLUSIONS: While both 3D models and e-learning effectively enhance short-term CLP knowledge among dental students, their long-term educational impacts are comparable. However, student preferences indicated that the use of 3D-printed models and e-learning strategies may be useful augmentations to traditional lecture education.

Large-Language Models in Orthodontics: Assessing Reliability and Validity of ChatGPT in Pretreatment Patient Education.

BACKGROUND: Patients seeking orthodontic treatment may use large language models (LLMs) such as Chat-GPT for self-education, thereby impacting their decision-making process. This study assesses the reliability and validity of Chat-GPT prompts aimed at informing patients about orthodontic side effects and examines patients' perceptions of this information. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To assess reliability, n = 28 individuals were asked to generate information from GPT-3.5 and Generative Pretrained Transformer 4 (GPT-4) about side effects related to orthodontic treatment using both self-formulated and standardized prompts. Three experts evaluated the content generated based on these prompts regarding its validity. We asked a cohort of 46 orthodontic patients about their perceptions after reading an AI-generated information text about orthodontic side effects and compared it with the standard text from the postgraduate orthodontic program at Aarhus University. RESULTS: Although the GPT-generated answers mentioned several relevant side effects, the replies were diverse. The experts rated the AI-generated content generally as "neither deficient nor satisfactory," with GPT-4 achieving higher scores than GPT-3.5. The patients perceived the GPT-generated information as more useful and more comprehensive and experienced less nervousness when reading the GPT-generated information. Nearly 80% of patients preferred the AI-generated information over the standard text. CONCLUSIONS: Although patients generally prefer AI-generated information regarding the side effects of orthodontic treatment, the tested prompts fall short of providing thoroughly satisfactory and high-quality education to patients.

Scientific rationale for Clinical Practice Guidelines (part 1): what are the factors that determine the choice of retention? / Argumentaire scientifique en vue de l'élaboration de recommandations professionnelles (partie 1) : facteurs de choix préalables à la réalisation d'une contention.

Introduction: Retention is the set of means, processes or devices that contribute to maintaining the teeth in the position and the arches in the shape given by the orthodontic treatment. The main objective is to propose Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) on orthodontic retention by answering 4 main questions. This article provides the answer to the first question: What are the factors that determine whether or not to use a retainer? Material and Methods: A literature review was carried out after a bibliographic search using keywords in bibliographic databases and in international organizations websites. Results: 652 articles were selected after the bibliographic search, and only 53 met the inclusion criteria. These were used to develop the CPG full-text and guidelines. Discussion: 12 CPGs were issued from this review, divided into 15 items, 8 of which were grade C and 7 were expert agreements. Conclusion: 40 CPGs about orthodontic retention were proposed from this literature review, 12 of which are presented in this first part. The stability of orthodontic treatment depends on the initial orthodontic anomalies, residual growth, orthodontic treatment modalities, and the final occlusion. Orthodontists must consider the effectiveness of the appliances, the patients' compliance and oral hygiene. The amount of alveolar bone, the neuromuscular and functional balance are relapse factors.

Introduction: La contention est l'ensemble de moyens, procédés ou dispositifs contribuant à maintenir les dents dans la position et les arcades dans la forme, données par le traitement d'orthodontie. L'objectif principal était de proposer des recommandations de bonne pratique (RBP) sur la contention en orthodontie, en répondant à quatre questions principales. Cet article fournit l'argumentaire correspondant à la première question : quels sont les facteurs de choix préalables à la réalisation d'une contention ? Matériel et méthodes: Une revue de la littérature a été réalisée après recherche bibliographique par mots-clés dans les banques de données bibliographiques, ainsi que sur les sites internet d'organismes internationaux. Résultats: Sur 652 articles sélectionnés à l'issue de la recherche bibliographique, seulement 53 répondaient aux critères d'inclusion. Ils ont permis de rédiger l'argumentaire scientifique et d'en tirer des RBP. Discussion: Douze recommandations ont pu être émises à partir de cet argumentaire, divisées en 15 items dont 8 de grade C et 7 accords d'experts. Conclusion: Quarante RBP à propos de la contention en orthodontie ont été proposées à partir de cette revue de la littérature dont 12 qui ont été exposées dans cette première partie. La stabilité du traitement orthodontique dépend des anomalies orthodontiques initiales, de la croissance résiduelle, des modalités thérapeutiques orthodontiques, de l'équilibre occlusal obtenu. L'orthodontiste doit prendre en compte l'efficacité des dispositifs, l'observance et l'hygiène bucco-dentaire du patient. La quantité d'os alvéolaire, l'équilibre neuromusculaire et fonctionnel sont des facteurs de récidive.

Scientific rationale for Clinical Practice Guidelines (part 2): what is the effectiveness of retention devices? / Argumentaire scientifique en vue de l'élaboration de recommandations professionnelles (partie 2) : efficacité des dispositifs de contention en termes de stabilité.

Introduction: Retention is the set of means, processes or devices that contribute to maintaining the teeth in the position and the arches in the shape given by the orthodontic treatment. The main objective is to propose Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) on orthodontic retention by answering four main questions. This article provides the first part of the answer to the second question: How effective are the retention devices? Materials and Methods: A literature review was carried out after a bibliographic search using keywords in bibliographic databases and in international organizations websites. Results: 652 articles were selected after the bibliographic search, and only 53 met the inclusion criteria. These were used to develop the CPG full-text and guidelines. Discussion: Ten CPGs were issued from this review, divided into 12 items, 10 of which are grade C and 2 are expert agreements. Conclusion: Forty CPGs about orthodontic retention were proposed from this literature review, 10 of which are presented in this second part. In the mandible, fixed retention provides better stability than removable retention and 6-tooth retention is more effective in maintaining incisal alignment. Fixed and removable retention are equivalent in maintaining extraction spaces and arch length. Removable retention allows for minimal tooth movement and establishment of occlusal contacts.

Introduction: La contention est l'ensemble de moyens, procédés ou dispositifs, contribuant à maintenir les dents dans la position et les arcades dans la forme, données par le traitement d'orthodontie. L'objectif principal était de proposer des recommandations de bonne pratique (RBP) sur la contention en orthodontie, en répondant à quatre questions principales. Cet article fournit la deuxième partie de l'argumentaire correspondant à la deuxième question : quelle est l'efficacité des dispositifs de contention ? Matériel et méthodes: Une revue de la littérature a été réalisée après recherche bibliographique par mots-clés dans les banques de données bibliographiques et sur les sites internet d'organismes internationaux. Résultats: 652 articles ont été sélectionnés à l'issue de la recherche bibliographique, mais seulement 53 répondaient aux critères d'inclusion. Ils ont permis de rédiger l'argumentaire scientifique et d'en tirer des RBP. Discussion: Dix recommandations ont pu être émises à partir de cet argumentaire, divisées en 12 items, dont 10 de grade C et 2 accords d'experts. Conclusion: Quarante RBP concernant la contention en orthodontie ont été proposées à partir de cette revue de la littérature dont dix qui sont exposées dans cette deuxième partie. À la mandibule, la contention fixe permet une meilleure stabilité que la contention amovible et la contention 6 dents est plus efficace pour le maintien de l'alignement incisif. Les contentions fixes et amovibles sont équivalentes pour maintenir les espaces d'avulsion et la longueur d'arcade. Les contentions amovibles permettent d'effectuer des mouvements dentaires minimes et l'établissement de contacts occlusaux.