Inter-observer and intra-observer agreement of cervical vertebral maturation staging: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The accurate assessment of active growth is pivotal for the correction of skeletal malocclusion in growing patients. Cervical vertebral maturation (CVM) staging is easy and devoid of unnecessary radiation, but its inter- and intra-observer agreement is still debatable. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess inter-observer (reliability) and intra-observer agreement (reproducibility) for CVM staging. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search across five databases up to October 2023 was conducted. Inclusion criteria comprised observational studies that specifically reported intra-rater, inter-rater, or both agreements as their primary objectives for cervical vertebral maturation (CVM) staging. Studies with a sample size exceeding 15 participants were considered for inclusion. After duplicate study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment, random-effects meta-analyses of kappa (k)/correlation coefficient (r) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were performed, followed by meta-regressions, sensitivity analyses, and subgroup analyses. RESULTS: Seventeen observational studies (comprising 1437 lateral cephalograms and 110 assessors) were included. The reliability (8 studies; k=0.62 [95% CI: 0.44, 0.78]) and reproducibility (9 studies; k=0.708 [95% CI: 0.59, 0.82]) were substantial. The inter-observer correlation was almost perfect (in 9 studies; r=0.86 [95% CI: 0.82, 0.89]) while intra-observer correlation was substantial (in 2 studies; r=0.75 [95% CI: 0.62, 0.84]). Tracing of lateral cephalograms significantly increased inter-observer reliability (ß=0.29 [0.57, 0.0031]) but cropping and time of assessment (initial vs. follow-up) had no significant impact. The reliability (P<0.001) and reproducibility (P=0.049) of high-quality studies were superior to those observed in low-quality studies. CONCLUSION: Assessment of the CVM staging is accurate and reproducible to a satisfactory level. The accuracy and reproducibility of CVM are higher in studies utilizing traced cephalograms and those with a low-risk of bias. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration (CRD42023468521). Data is openly available at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10599129.

Visible light-activated curcumin-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles integrated into orthodontic adhesive on Micro-tensile bond strength, degree of conversion, and antibacterial effectiveness against Staphylococcus Aureus. An investigation using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.

AIM: To acquire a thorough comprehension of the photoactivated Cur-doped ZnONPs at different concentrations 0%, 2.5%, and 5% on the physical qualities, antibacterial efficacy, degree of conversion, and µshear bond strength between orthodontic brackets and the enamel surface. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An extensive investigation was carried out utilizing a range of analytical methods, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, micro tensile bond strength (µTBS) testing, and evaluation of antibacterial effectiveness. Cur-doped ZnONPs at concentrations of 2.5% and 5% were blended with Transbond XT, a light-curable orthodontic adhesive. A control group without the addition of Cur-doped ZnONPs was also prepared. The tooth samples were categorized into three groups based on the weight percentage of NPs: Group 1 (control) with 0% Cur-doped ZnONPs, Group 2 with 2.5 wt% Cur-doped ZnONPs, and Group 3 with 5 wt% Cur-doped ZnONPs. The SEM technique was employed to analyze the morphological characteristics of Cur-doped ZnONPs and ZnONPs. The composition and elemental distribution of the modified Cur-doped ZnONPs were assessed using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The effectiveness of NPs at various concentrations against S.Mutans was gauged through the pour plate method. DC of Cur-doped ZnONPs at a region of 1608 cm-1 to 1636 cm-1 for the cured area, whereas the uncured area spanned the same range of 1608 cm-1 to 1636 cm-1 was assessed. The Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) approach was utilized to investigate the bond failure of orthodontic brackets, while a Universal Testing Machine (UTM) was utilized to test µTBS. The Kruskal-Wallis test was employed to investigate variations in S.mutans survival rates. To determine the µTBS values, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the post hoc Tukey multiple comparisons test were used. RESULTS: The maximum µTBS was given and documented in group 3: 5 wt% Cur-doped ZnONPs (21.21 ± 1.53 MPa). The lowest µTBS was given in group 2: 2.5 wt% Cur-doped ZnONPs (19.58 ± 1.27 MPa). The highest efficacy against S.mutans was documented in group 3 in which 5 wt% Cur-doped ZnONPs (0.39 ± 0.15). The lowest efficacy was seen in group 1 in which no Cur-doped ZnONPs were used (6.47 ± 1.23). The ARI analysis indicated that the predominant failure was between scores 0 and 1 among all experimental groups. Control group 1 which was not modified showed the highest DC (73.11 ± 4.19). CONCLUSION: Orthodontic adhesive, containing 5% Cur-doped ZnONPs photoactivated with visible light exhibited a favorable impact on µTBS and indicated enhanced antibacterial efficacy against S.mutans. Nevertheless, it was observed that the addition of Cur-doped ZnONPs at different concentrations (2.5%,5%) resulted in a decrease in the monomer-to-polymer ratio compromising DC.

Orthodontic adhesive loaded with different proportions of ZrO2 silver-doped nanoparticles: An in vitro µTBS, SEM, EDX, FTIR, and antimicrobial analysis.

Zirconium dioxide silver-doped nanoparticles (ZrO2AgDNPs) impacts the adhesive material in terms of its physical characteristics, antimicrobial properties, degree of conversion (DC), and micro-tensile bond strength (µTBS) of orthodontic brackets to the enamel surface. A comprehensive methodological analysis utilizing a range of analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, DC analysis, and µTBS testing. A light-curable orthodontic adhesive, specifically Transbond XT, was combined with ZrO2AgDNPs at 2.5% and 5%. As a control, an adhesive with no incorporation of ZrO2AgDNPs was also prepared. The tooth samples were divided into three groups based on the weightage of NPs: group 1: 0% ZrO2AgDNPs (control), group 2: 2.5 wt% ZrO2AgDNPs, and group 3: 5 wt% ZrO2AgDNPs. EDX graph demonstrated silver (Ag), Zirconium (Zr), and Oxygen (O2), The antibacterial efficacy of adhesives with different concentrations of NPs (0%, 2.5%, and 5%) was assessed using the pour plate method. The FTIR spectra were analyzed to identify peaks at 1607 cm-1 corresponding to aromatic CC bonds and the peaks at 1638 cm-1 indicating the presence of aliphatic CC bonds. The µTBS was assessed using universal testing machine (UTM) and bond failure of orthodontic brackets was seen using adhesive remanent index (ARI) analysis. Kruskal-Wallis test assessed the disparities in survival rates of Streptococcus mutans. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc Tukey multiple comparisons test calculated µTBS values. The lowest µTBS was observed in group 1 adhesive loaded with 0% ZrO2AgDNPs (21.25 ± 1.22 MPa). Whereas, the highest µTBS was found in group 3 (26.19 ± 1.07 MPa) adhesive loaded with 5% ZrO2AgDNPs. ZrO2AgDNPs in orthodontic adhesive improved µTBS and has acceptable antibacterial activity against S mutans. ZrO2AgDNPs at 5% by weight can be used in orthodontic adhesive alternative to the conventional method of orthodontic adhesive for bracket bonding. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The highest µTBS was found in orthodontic adhesive loaded with 5% ZrO2AgDNPs. ARI analysis indicates that the majority of the failures fell between 0 and 1 among all investigated groups. The colony-forming unit count of S. mutans was significantly less in orthodontic adhesive loaded with nanoparticles compared with control. The 0% ZrO2AgDNPs adhesive showed the highest DC.

Salivary and crevicular fluid proinflammatory cytokines and advanced glycation end products in patients with different glycemic levels undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.

OBJECTIVE: To examine whether patients with different blood glycemic levels undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy demonstrate changes in the biochemical profiles of crevicular fluid and salivary advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and proinflammatory cytokine levels in comparison with nondiabetic healthy subjects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prediabetic subjects, subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and subjects without a diabetes mellitus diagnosis undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy with MBT prescription brackets (0.022-inch brackets and 0.019 × 0.025-inch stainless steel archwires) were included in the study. The following clinical periodontal parameters were evaluated: (1) plaque score (PS), (2) probing depth (PD), (3) bleeding on probing (BOP), and (4) clinical attachment loss. Crevicular fluid and saliva specimens were collected during regular orthodontic visits. Salivary and crevicular fluid tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, ghrelin, resistin, AGEs, and receptor activator of nuclear factor κΒ ligand were evaluated using a human magnetic Luminex multiplex assay. RESULTS: BOP scores were significantly higher among T2DM subjects (19.2%) than among nondiabetic subjects (11.2%) and prediabetic subjects (15.9%). Comparable values were demonstrated by all three study groups regarding PD scores and PSs. T2DM subjects demonstrated higher scores for gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) chemokines than nondiabetic and prediabetic subjects. A statistically significant difference was found in the levels of AGEs and resistin among the three study groups. The scores revealed for the levels of GCF resistin and AGEs versus periodontal BOP demonstrated a significant positive association by the Pearson correlation test. CONCLUSIONS: T2DM patients demonstrated significantly higher levels of GCF resistin and AGEs during fixed orthodontic therapy. Chronic hyperglycemic patients undergoing orthodontic therapy demonstrated a proinflammatory response.

Levels of Inflammatory and Bone Metabolic Markers in the Gingival Crevicular Fluid of Individuals Undergoing Fixed Orthodontic Treatment in Comparison to Those Utilizing Invisalign.

Background and Objectives: Evaluation of the levels of cytokine and bone metabolic biomarkers (BMBs) in patients receiving fixed orthodontic therapy (FOT) and Invisalign. Materials and Methods: Sixty participants were enrolled after meeting the predefined inclusion criteria. Patients then underwent either FOT or Invisalign by allocating them randomly to each group (n = 30). The basic periodontal assessment was performed, including the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding on probing (BoP), at baseline and again after 4 weeks. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were taken from each individual at baseline and after 4 weeks. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique was used to determine the cytokine and BMB levels. An unpaired t-test compared the FOT and Invisalign group's means and SDs. Paired t-tests examined the difference between T0 baseline and T1. Results: Patients treated with either FOT or Invisalign presented no statistically significant difference in terms of periodontal parameters such as PI, GI, and BoP (p > 0.05). The levels of IL-6 were significantly higher in patients treated with FOT as compared to Invisalign at T1 (p < 0.05) The other tested cytokines, IL-10, 13, 17, and GM-CSF, were not significantly different in either the FOT or Invisalign group at baseline and 4 weeks follow-up (p > 0.05). Regarding BMBs, it was detected that NTx and OC levels in both of the investigated groups were not significantly different at baseline and after 4 weeks (p > 0.05). However, NTx levels rose significantly (p < 0.05) and OC levels fell from T0 to T1. Conclusions: FOT and Invisalign displayed comparable outcomes in terms of cytokine and BMB levels. However, only IL-6 and NTx were significantly different at week 4 from baseline.

Effect of Plant-Based Mouthwash (Morinda citrifolia and Ocimum sanctum) on TNF-α, IL-α, IL-ß, IL-2, and IL-6 in Gingival Crevicular Fluid and Plaque Scores of Patients Undergoing Fixed Orthodontic Treatment.

Background and Objectives: To investigate the antiplaque properties of two plant-based mouthwashes, Morinda citrifolia (MC) and Ocimum sanctum (OS), and their effect on TNF-α, IL-α, IL-ß, IL-2, and IL-6 in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: Seventy-five individuals were recruited according to defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. This study was structured into two distinct phases. Phase I was a combination of toothbrushing using toothpaste containing fluoride (Protocol A), while Phase II toothbrushing included fluoride toothpaste and use of a mouthwash (Protocol B). For Phase II, individuals participating in this study were allocated into different groups through a randomization process: Group 1-0.12% CHX, Group 2-5% MC, and Group 3-4% OS. Each individual's Phase I and Phase II scores were assessed. GCF was measured in three phases to determine the level of inflammatory biomarkers. The paired t-test evaluated the disparities between the pre- and post-plaque index. Categorical data were subjected to crosstab analysis to assess qualitative variables. The mean values of cytokine levels were presented. An unpaired t-test was employed to assess the levels of cytokines between individuals in Phase I and Phase II. Results: Toothbrushing, fluoride toothpaste, and the supplementary use of mouthwash (Phase II) resulted in mean plaque scores significantly lower than group A (p < 0.001). Cytokines TNF-α, IL-α, and IL-ß demonstrated a significant downward trend in herbal mouthwash users. Conclusions: In conjunction with fluoridated toothpaste and brushing, OS and MC can serve as a viable alternative to conventional synthetic mouthwash CHX. This combination demonstrates reducing mean plaque scores and diminishing the levels of cytokines TNF-α, IL-α, and IL-ß.

Role of six cytokines and bone metabolism biomarkers in gingival crevicular fluid in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic appliance treatment in comparison with aligners: a clinical study.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to assess bone biomarkers and cytokines in patients with conventional labial appliances (CLAs) and aligners. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants were recruited to undergo orthodontic treatment with CLAs and aligners according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Periodontal examination was accomplished at baseline and 4 weeks using the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding on probing (BoP). Samples of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were collected at baseline (T0) before the start of treatment and at the 1-month follow-up (T1) to assess bone metabolic and inflammatory biomarkers. GCF from participants with CLAs and aligners was evaluated with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Comparison between labial conventional orthodontic treatment and aligners were assessed using an unpaired t-test. The difference between T0 and T1 was measured using a paired t-test. RESULTS: BoP, PI, and GI demonstrated no significant difference between participants treated with aligners and subjects with CLAs at baseline and at 4 weeks (P > .05). Bone markers and other biomarkers (tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin [IL]-α, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-8) showed significant differences (P < .05). Also, a significant difference between CLAs and aligners was noted among all biomarkers (P < .05) except IL-ß. CONCLUSIONS: Aligners and CLAs increase the level of inflammatory and bone metabolic biomarkers after 1 month.

Caries-affected dentin disinfection using Triphala, Indocyanine green, and Potassium Titanyl Phosphate laser and their effect on adhesive bond strength.

AIM: To assess the impact of new cavity sterilization types using ozone water (OW), Potassium Titanyl Phosphate laser (KTPL), Triphala, and indocyanine green photosensitizer (ICGP) on adhesive bond strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty human permanent molars were included based on the criteria of International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) scores 4 and 5 visual examinations, surface hardness valuation, staining by a caries detector solution, and radiographs. Caries-affected dentin (CAD) samples were randomly distributed into groups based on methods of disinfection (n = 10). Group 1: chlorhexidine, group 2: ow, group 3: KTPL, group 4: Triphala, and group 5: ICGP. Following disinfection, specimens were applied with Adper prime and bond NT and then restored with resin composite. All specimens were positioned in a jig of the universal testing machine for shear bond strength (SBS). The debonded samples were analyzed under a stereomicroscope at 40x magnification to determine the type of failure. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey HSD tests were used keeping the level of significance p < 0.05. RESULTS: The highest bond of adhesive resin was displayed by group 2 specimens cleaned using OW (16.71 ± 0.19 MPa). Whereas, the lowest bond integrity was observed by group 5 specimens disinfected using ICGP (11.21 ± 0.16 MPa). It was observed samples disinfected with OW (16.71 ± 0.19 MPa) in group 2 and samples in group 4 (16.09 ± 0.26 MPa) treated with Triphala displayed comparable outcomes of bond strength (p > 0.05). It was observed that group 2 (70%) and 4 (80%) treated specimens accounted mostly for cohesive failure. However, groups 1 (80%), 3 (60%), and 5 (70%) displayed an adhesive failure pattern. CONCLUSION: OW and Triphala displayed better bond integrity of adhesive resin to CAD and therefore have the potential to be used as a cavity disinfectant in clinical settings. However, ICGP and KTPL displayed weak bonds of adhesive to CAD. More work is needed to extrapolate the findings of the present study.

Novel use of chloro-aluminum phthalocyanine assisted photodynamic therapy helps in periimplant healing among smoking patients.

AIMS: To evaluate the clinical and biochemical peri­implant parameters using chloro­aluminum phthalocyanine-(CAP) mediated antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) as an adjunct to non-surgical mechanical debridement (NSD) in cigarette smokers (CS) and never-smokers (NS) with peri­implantitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-two patients with peri­implantitis [Group CS - 16 and Group NS - 16] were recruited for the trial. The study participants underwent two therapies: PDT + NSD and NSD alone. The clinical peri­implant parameters assessed in this clinical trial were bleeding on probing (BP), crestal bone loss (CBL) peri­implant pocket depth (PD), and peri­implant plaque scores (PS), respectively. Peri-implant crevicular fluid was sampled and the quantification of interleukin (IL)-1ß and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) was performed using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: BP was significantly reduced at 6 months after PDT+NSD in CS groups. Mean PD significantly reduced after both PDT+NSD and NSD subgroups within both NS and CS groups. Only at 6 months did PDT+NSD showed statistically significantly reduced IL-1ß levels in the NS group. TNF-α levels significantly reduced in CS group with PDT+NSD and NSD alone at both 3 months and 6 months follow up. CONCLUSION: CAP-assisted PDT helped to improve the clinical and cytokine levels after non-surgical peri­implant mechanical debridement in treating peri­implantitis patients in smokers.

Disinfection of caries-affected dentin using potassium titanyl phosphate laser, Rose bengal and Ozonated water on shear bond strength of deciduous teeth.

AIM: To assess the efficacy of disinfection of caries-effected dentin (CAD) using KTP laser and different decontamination methods using ozonated water (OW), Rose Bengal photosensitizer (RBP), chlorhexidine (CHX), and Er, YAG laser on the shear bond strength (SBS) of adhesive resin bonded to deciduous teeth. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 50 extracted and radiographically verified carious primary molars were collected and scrutinized according to ICDAS criteria. Specimens were allocated randomly into five groups (n = 10) as per the type of CAD disinfectants. KTP laser, OW, RBP, CHX (control), and Er, YAG laser. After cavity sanitization, a resin adhesive (prime and bond NT) was smeared on the dentinal exterior followed by incremental composite filling. SBS evaluation was performed by employing specimens in the universal testing machine. The debonded surface was assessed under 40x magnification in a stereomicroscope to ascertain fracture mode. Statistical analysis was done by using the ANOVA and the Post Hoc Tukey multiple comparison tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The highest SBS was exhibited by group 2 i.e., when OW was employed for CAD disinfection (10.25 ± 0.24 MPa). Whereas, the lowest SBS bond value was unveiled by samples in group 3 when RBP was applied for dentin surface sanitization (7.85 ± 0.59 MPa).CAD disinfection with KTP laser (8.25 ± 0.41 MPa), CHX (8.19 ± 0.73 MPa), and RBP displayed comparable bond values (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Ozonated water and Er, YAG laser could be employed as cavity disinfectants in primary teeth as they demonstrated better shear bond strength without jeopardizing the adhesive binding capacity of restorative resins bonded to caries-affected dentin.

Effect of two hemostatic agents containing Aluminium chloride and ferric sulfate on bond integrity of resin-modified glass ionomer cement.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of hemostatic agents (Expasyl and Viscostat) on the bond values of RMGIC bonded to pretreated dentin surface with cavity conditioner (CC), self etch primer (SEP), and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and eighty human third molars were embedded in a self-cure acrylic resin-filled polyvinyl cylinder. The dentinal surface was prepared and all the samples were arbitrarily distributed into three different groups liable to the hemostatic agent used (n = 60). Samples in group 1: no hemostatic agent used, Group 2: Samples exposed to Expasyl, and group 3: Viscostat. After applying the hemostatic agent, all the samples were surface treated with different surface conditioners. Subgroup A1, B1, C1 were conditioned with aPDT, Subgroup A2, B2, and C2 surface were treated with SEP, and Subgroup A3, B3, and C3 were smeared with CC. RMGIC was placed and SBS was assessed using a universal testing machine and failure mode analysis was performed using and stereomicroscope at 40x magnification. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc test compared the means and standard deviations (SD) following SBS testing (p = 0.05). RESULTS: Highest SBS was exhibited by group A2 (22.36 ± 1.66 MPa Control - SEP) whereas group A1 (14.14 ± 1.32 aPDT + Control) demonstrated the lowest SBS. Subgroups B1 (17.23 ± 0.33- Expasyl + aPDT) and C1 (18.36 ± 0.25 MPa -Viscostat + aPDT) were found to be comparable (p > 0.05). Similarly, A3 (19.69 ± 1.01- Control + CC) and B3 (18.23 ± 0.33 MPa- Expasyl + CC) and C3 (18.36 ± 0.37 Viscostat + CC) demonstrated no significant difference in bond scores (p > 0.05). Most of the failures in aPDT were adhesive. However, SEP and CC groups demonstrated admixed and cohesive failure CONCLUSION: Dentin conditioned by aPDT after hemostatic agents improves bond values of RMGIC. Self etch Primer and Cavity conditioner using polyacrylic acid without hemostatic agent improves bond integrity of RMGIC.

Ultrastructural and physicochemical characterization of pH receptive chlorhexidine-loaded poly-L-glycolic acid-modified orthodontic adhesive.

This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of chlorhexidine (CHX)-loaded poly-L-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles as a modifier of a commercial orthodontic adhesive via the assessment of physicochemical, biological, and mechanical properties at tooth-bracket interface. CHX-loaded PLGA nanoparticles were synthesized using double emulsion-solvent evaporation method and characterized using transmission electron microscopy and Raman analysis. CHX-loaded PLGA nanoparticles in Transbond XT orthodontic adhesive were prepared using two different concentrations of the CHX (25 and 50%) and characterized for degree of conversion (DC), antimicrobial, and cytotoxicity testing. Bonded specimens were tested for shear bond strength (SBS) and adhesive remnant index (ARI) at tooth-bracket interface. The synthesized PLGA nanoparticles averaged between 60 and 80 nm in size. After loading CHX inside PLGA nanoparticles, the morphology of the PLGA nanoparticles was considerably changed. Orthodontic bracket bonded with 25% CHX-loaded PLGA-modified adhesive demonstrated DC scores similar to control group. Both 25 and 50% CHX-loaded PLGA-modified adhesive specimens showed higher antibacterial activity against S. mutans compared to control group. The least mean SBS values were exhibited by 50% CHX-loaded PLGA-modified adhesive samples, while a statistically significant difference was observed in the mean ARI values among all study groups at all-time points (p = .018). This study indicates that the addition of CHX-loaded PLGA nanoparticles in Transbond XT achieved stable bonds with enhanced antimicrobial and mechanical properties.

Bond assessment of enamel conditioned with Er, Cr: YSGG laser and methylene blue photosensitizer activated by photodynamic therapy to orthodontic metallic brackets.

AIM: To assess bond integrity and failure mode after enamel pretreated with conventional and contemporary conditioning methods were bonded to metallic brackets (MB). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty maxillary central incisors were selected and disinfected. All specimens were mounted up to the cement-o-enamel junction and divided into four experimental groups randomly based on the enamel conditioning technique. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) was used to condition enamel in group 1, Total-etch and rinse (TER) was used to treat samples in group 2, Specimens in group 3 were conditioned with ECL, and samples in group 4 surface pretreated with SEP. Bonding of MB was performed on the surfaces of all the specimens with a Transbond XT. Specimens from all investigated groups were positioned on a universal testing machine maintaining buccal surfaces similar to the direction of the force. After bracket debonding bond failure was assessed using ARI. The bond integrity of all four groups was compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Post hoc Tukey test was used for pairwise comparison among different groups. RESULTS: Group 2, TER+MB (15.38±0.14 MPa) displayed the highest bond value whereas the lowest values of SBS were exhibited by group 1, PDT+MB (10.11±0.17 MPa). The inter-group comparison revealed that specimens of group 2 and group 3, ECL+MB (14.61±0.55 MPa) demonstrated comparable bond strength (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Enamel conditioned with TER and ECL demonstrated comparable SBS. However, bond integrity after PDT and SEP (self-etch primer) surface treatment of enamel bonded with MB significantly lowered bond values.

Effect of ultrasonic scaling with adjunctive photodynamic therapy on the treatment of gingival inflammation among diabetic patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present clinical trial was to evaluate the effect of methylene blue-mediated antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on the gingival and immunological parameters in diabetic adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. METHODS: The selected 40 participants were randomized equally into two groups; Group I (ultrasonic scaling + oral hygiene instructions) and Group II (ultrasonic scaling/oral hygiene instructions + aPDT). Serum HbA1c levels was assessed for all the participants at chairside. Plaque index (Pi), and bleeding on probing (BOP) were analyzed. Moreover, the assessment of crevicular fluid matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP-8) and macrophage inflammatory protein 1 alpha (MIP-1α) was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. All measurements were recorded at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks follow-up periods, respectively. Intergroup comparisons for p-value were computed using Mann-Whitney test and Wilcoxon singed ranks test to compute p-value for intra-group comparisons. Stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to identify explanatory variables for reduction in plaque scores and bleeding on probing, after controlling for the effects of other covariates. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the direction and strength for associations. Significance level was set at 5% for all analyses. RESULTS: All 40 individuals completed the clinical trial. There was a statistically significant reduction in Pi and BOP in both Group I and Group II from baseline to 12 weeks of follow up (P<0.05). However, there was slight reduction in the plaque scores in Group-II as compared to Group-I at 12 weeks visit (P<0.05). There was also a statistically significant difference for BOP when Group-I was compared with Group-II on 12 weeks follow up assessment (P<0.05). HbA1c assessment indicated no statistically significant difference either within or between groups at any time point (P>0.05). Both MMP-8 and MIP-1α reported a significant decrease for both Groups I and II at 6 weeks and 12 weeks follow-up periods in comparison to baseline (P<0.05). Inter-group comparison indicated a statistically significant difference noted at both 6 weeks follow up that was maintained at 12 weeks follow up (P<0.05). The logistic regression analysis revealed that even after controlling the mean BMI as a predictor, the change of biomarker levels along with the improvement in plaque scores and bleeding on probing was not significant (p> 0.05). CONCLUSION: aPDT significantly improved bleeding on probing and proinflammatory biomarkers among diabetic adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy.

Impact of riboflavin mediated photodynamic disinfection around fixed orthodontic system infected with oral bacteria.

PURPOSE: The aim of this laboratory study was to investigate the amount of bacterial destruction through riboflavin mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) around fixed orthodontic devices by using the two strains of bacteria Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sanguinis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 80 metallic brackets were divided into four groups consisting of 20 brackets each. Group-I: riboflavin + LED irradiation; Group-II: riboflavin alone; Group-III: immersion in 0.2 % chlorhexidine gluconate solution and Group-IV: not submitted to any treatment. All metallic brackets were immersed in the standard bacterial solutions and incubated at 48 h. All samples were subjected to MTT assay for microbial cell viability testing after treatment. After 24 h of incubation, biofilms adhered on the mesh of metallic brackets after treatment were assessed by confocal laser microscopy. The total CFU/mL was estimated, and the results were log-transformed (log10) and analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey-Kramer test. P-value was set to <0.05 that indicated statistical significance. RESULTS: The samples from group-IV showed the highest amount of relative biofilm viability compared to any other group while group-I (PDT) showed the least viability of the two bacterial strains studied (p < 0.05). Group-I showed no significant difference when compared with group-III (chlorhexidine) (p > 0.05). The biofilms on the samples from group-II and group-IV were largely viable indicating thick green staining across the mesh of the brackets. Among the group-III samples, there were predominantly dead cells as compared to the live cell staining. A considerable amount of red staining was observed with noticeable less green staining in group-I samples. CONCLUSION: This laboratory investigation revealed that riboflavin mediated PDT significantly reduced the amounts of S. mutans and S. sanguinis around the orthodontic brackets.

Effectiveness of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy in restoring clinical, microbial, proinflammatory cytokines and pain scores in adolescent patients having generalized gingivitis and undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on clinical gingival inflammatory parameters, bacterial load, proinflammatory cytokine status, and pain scores in adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment with gingivitis. METHODS: Thirty adolescent undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment with gingivitis were randomly divided into two groups: Group A - patients undergoing dental scaling (DS) with adjunctive photodynamic therapy (PDT) and Group BDS alone. Clinical gingival parameters including plaque scores, (PS), bleeding on probing (BOP) and probing depth (PD) were assessed. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) were used to report the values of present pain intensity. Crevicular fluid was sampled to quantify the levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The total bacterial counts for Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Tannerella forsythia (T. forsythia) were assessed. All examinations were performed at baseline, 1 week and 4 weeks. RESULTS: Both the treatment regimens reported statistically significant reduction in PS and BOP (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference was observed in PS and PD values when Group B was compared with Group A (p > 0.05). There was a statistically significant reduction noted for BOP in Group B when compared to Group A (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant reduction in the microbial counts of T. forsythia in Group A when compared to Group B at week-1 (p < 0.05). During the 4-week follow-up, the counts for T. forsythia significantly increased. No significant changes could be seen in either of the pain scores in both the groups (p > 0.05). Both groups showed statistically significant reduction in the IL-6 and TNF-α levels. However, IL-6 was significantly reduced at 1 week, while TNF-a significantly reduced at 4 weeks of follow up among the participants in Group B. CONCLUSION: PDT has a positive effect in significantly reducing the periodontal microbial load in established gingivitis in adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.

Efficacy of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy against halitosis in adolescent patients undergoing orthodontic treatment.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present randomized controlled clinical trial was to evaluate the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on halitosis in adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-five adolescents with halitosis undergoing orthodontic treatment were equally randomized into three groups: Group - I: provision of treatment through PDT on dorsum of tongue; Group - II: provision of treatment with the help of tongue scrappers (TS); Group - III: provision of treatment with the help of TS and adjunctive PDT. Presence of halitosis confirmed on the basis of gas chromatography and estimation of oral malodour with a cysteine challenge and H2S values recorded ≥112 parts per billion (ppb). A portable device Oral Chroma™ was used for performing breath analysis. A total of 5 bacterial species including P. gingivalis, F. nucleatum, P. intermedia, T. forsythia and T. denticola were studied as the proportion of sites defined as having ≥1.0 × 105 bacterial cells. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants in Group-I, II and III were 15.4 years, 13.8 years, and 14.2 years, respectively. The median values for Group-I, II and III at initial breath analysis were 874 ppb, 613 ppb and 1089 ppb, respectively. After treatment with the respective therapeutic modalities, a statistically significant difference was seen among groups after 2-weeks (p < 0.0001) (Table 3). After applying Kruskal-Wallis test, group-III showed the highest amount of reduction in H2S concentration (100 %) at final 2-weeks breath analysis compared to group-I and group-II (p = 0.0001). Descriptive statistics for all bacteria showed that group-III (TS + PDT) statistically significantly reduced the proportional distribution of all bacteria at 2-week follow-up (p < 0.0001) compared to group-I or group-II. CONCLUSION: PDT along with tongue scrapping showed effective immediate reduction of H2S concentration and reduction of oral pathogens in adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment with short-term follow up. Long-term evaluation and complete eradication of halitosis needs to be explored in further clinical trials. In addition, the cost of PDT and its potential side effects should not be disregarded.

Clinical periodontal, bacterial, and immunological outcomes of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy in orthodontic treatment-induced gingival enlargement.

AIM: The aim of the present clinical trial is to evaluate the clinical, bacterial, and immunological outcomes of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in adolescent patients with orthodontic treatment-induced gingival enlargement (OTGE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 26 adolescent patients, 16 girls and 10 boys, of mean age 16.8 years, undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment for at least 6 months (mean duration in months, 8.3 ± 1.9) and presenting with GE were included in the clinical trial. All patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment with clinical diagnosis of OTGE were divided into two groups: Patients receiving full-mouth periodontal debridement (FMPD) 'Group-FMPD' and 'Group-PDT' included participants receiving methylene blue-assisted PDT in the selected area along with FMPD. Clinical periodontal assessments included the evaluation of plaque scores (PS), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD) and hyperplastic index (HI). The total bacterial counts of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), Treponema denticola (T. denticola), and Tannerella forsythia (T. forsythia) were estimated and expressed as log CFU/mL of each bacteria. Cytokines including interleukin (IL)-1ß and IL-6 were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. RESULTS: The mean percentage of PS and BOP statistically significantly reduced with both FMPD and PDT from baseline to 4 weeks (p < 0.05). Although mean PD significantly reduced in both the groups at all time points, there was significantly higher reduction with PDT as compared to FMPD at 2 weeks post treatment (p < 0.05). Inter-group comparison showed PDT demonstrated significantly higher HI at 2- and 4-weeks post treatment (p < 0.05). The mean log CFU/mL of P. gingivalis and T. forsythia showed statistically significantly higher reduction with PDT than FMPD (p < 0.05) at both 2-and 4-weeks follow-up. T. denticola reported significantly reduced levels at 2 weeks follow-up period only with PDT (p < 0.05). No statistically significant difference appeared when both treatment modalities were compared with one another (p > 0.05). Four weeks after periodontal treatment, IL-6 significantly reduced with PDT compared to FMPD (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PDT assisted in reducing bacterial counts and improving hyperplastic index in OTGE.

Application of photodynamic therapy against periodontal bacteria in established gingivitis lesions in adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this 4 week follow up randomized controlled clinical trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy (PDT) as an adjunct to ultrasonic scaling (US) in the reduction of gingival inflammatory parameters and periodontal pathogens in established gingival inflammation in adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 22 adolescent patients (mean age: 17.5 years) undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment and presenting with persistent local gingival inflammation were randomized into two groups: Group-US: patients receiving ultrasonic scaling (US) with usual oral hygiene instructions and Group-PDT: in which patients received adjunctive PDT with US. Dichotomous recording for plaque scores (PS) and bleeding on probing (BOP) was used to assess the clinical inflammatory status. The total bacterial counts of P. gingivalis and T. forsythia were estimated and were expressed as log CFU/mL. All assessments were performed at baseline, 1 week and 4 weeks. For intergroup comparisons, student's t-test was computed along with Bonferroni correction for post hoc multiple comparisons. To identify differences between repeated follow-ups, ANOVA multiple rank test was used. RESULTS: Both treatment modalities reported statistically significant reduction in PS and BOP in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in PS and BOP when US was compared with PDT (p > 0.05). Group-US showed statistically significant reduction in T. forsythia at 1 week only (p < 0.05). Group-PDT showed statistically significant reduction in P. gingivalis and T. forsythia from baseline to 1 week and 4 weeks (p < 0.05). This was also significant when compared with US on both the time points (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PDT was effective in significantly reducing periodontal pathogens in established gingivitis lesions in adolescent patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment in short term.

Debonding characteristics of orthodontic brackets subjected to intraoral stresses under different adhesive regimes: An in-vitro study.

AIM: To evaluate the effect of simulated intraoral hydraulic, thermal, and mechanical stresses on the debonding characteristics of orthodontic brackets under different adhesive regimes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Groups of pre-coated (G1) and non-coated (G2) orthodontic metal brackets were bonded onto the buccal surfaces of 96 premolars using etch-and-rinse (SG1, n = 24) and self-etch (SG2, n = 24) primers. Twelve specimens (C1) from each subgroup were subjected to early debonding resistance tests, while the other twelve (C2) were used to test delayed debonding resistance after exposure to conditions simulating intraoral hydraulic, thermal, and mechanical stresses. The debonding resistance of the brackets was evaluated using a universal testing machine and the debonding patterns were micro-visualized to determine the adhesive remnant indexes of subgroups of specimens. RESULTS: Within each group, the etch-and-rinse primer (SG1) resulted in higher debonding resistance than self-etch primers (SG2) (p < 0.05), while there was no difference between non-stressed and stressed specimens (p > 0.05). Within each category of test specimens, there was no difference between pre-coated (G1) and non-coated (G2) brackets (p > 0.05). The tested specimens in all categories showed comparable adhesive remnant indexes. However, higher percentages of favorable scores (0 and 1) were obtained for all stressed specimens. CONCLUSIONS: Short-term cumulative intraoral stresses have no adverse effect on the debonding values of either pre-coated or non-coated brackets when either etch-and-rinse or self-etch primer is used for bonding. Exposure of the bonded brackets to different types of stress reflects favorable debonding patterns.