Use of Images and Clinical Experience to Calibrate Dental Surgeons for the Diagnosis of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate an imaging protocol for use as a diagnostic and calibration tool for dentists before and after practical activity. Material and Methods: Thirty photos of children's teeth with or without changes in dental enamel were selected and evaluated by a group of experienced dentists previously calibrated to establish the diagnosis defined as the gold standard. After instructions, the images were shown to a group of postgraduate dentists for free identification of dental changes. Subsequently, a lecture on molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) was carried out, and, at 14 days and all calibration was performed using the criteria previously. The retest was performed at 28 days. After experience in clinical activity in the following two weeks, the post-test was performed at 49 days. Data were analyzed using Cohen's kappa coefficient. Results: Theoretical learning on the subject showed low inter-examiner agreement when the diagnosis of defects was made from images obtained from intraoral photographs. After clinical practice, there was greater intra-examiner agreement. After theoretical training, dentists started to identify different types of enamel alteration, although with low agreement between them. Conclusion: Clinical experience in theoretical and imaging training favored the identification of defects. However, it is necessary to improve the protocol to establish a reliable and viable diagnostic method for calibration in MIH.

Periodontal ligament repair after active splinting of replanted dogs' teeth.

BACKGROUND/AIM: The high rate of root resorption resulting from tooth replantation represents a serious clinical problem. In order to prevent ankylosis and replacement resorption, the contemporary literature highlights the importance of using a flexible stabilization for traumatized teeth. For this purpose, orthodontic devices may be promising for obtaining a better prognosis and periodontal repair. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of an active splinting protocol with controlled force in dog's teeth following replantation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty premolar roots from three dogs were used. They were submitted to endodontic treatment, hemisected, atraumatically extracted and subsequently replanted. They were divided into four groups: Passive Stabilization (n = 20)-after 20 min in a dry medium; Active Stabilization (n = 20)-after 20 min in a dry medium; Negative control (n = 10)-immediate replantation and passive Stabilization; and Positive control (n = 10)-90 min of extra-alveolar time and passive Stabilization. The samples were collected and submitted to histologic processing. They were then evaluated for the count of inflammatory cells, expression of neurotrophin 4, osteoclasts, apoptotic cells and collagen fibres. The results were submitted to ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests followed by Tukey or Dunn post-tests (α = 5%). RESULTS: Passive Stabilization with orthodontic brackets without traction used after replantation had the highest number of inflammatory cells (p = .0122), osteoclasts (p = .0013) and percentage of collagen fibres in the periodontal ligament (p < .0001) when compared to Active Stabilization with orthodontic brackets applying amild tensile force. Neurotrophin 4 had no statistically significant difference (p = .05), regardless of the treatment. The apoptotic cells count revealed statistical differences (p < .0001) between Active Stabilization (189.70 ± 47.99) and Positive Control (198.90 ± 88.92) when compared to Passive Stabilization (21.19 ± 32.94). CONCLUSION: The active splinting protocol using orthodontic appliances generating a light and controlled force favoured periodontal ligament repair of replanted teeth.

Múltiplas lesões dentárias em paciente com Síndrome de Lennox-Gastaut / Multiple dental lesions in a patient with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome

Introdução: A Síndrome de Lennox-Gastaut (SLG) é uma encefalopatia epiléptica grave na infância. Seu tratamento é complexo, principalmente devido à multiplicidade das crises epilépticas, o que favorece à ocorrência de lesões dentais Objetivo: O objetivo deste relato é apresentar o manejo clínico de um paciente com SLG, vítima de traumas recorrentes, discutir os achados dentais observados e o tratamento odontológico realizado. Relato do caso: Paciente L.H.D.L., do sexo masculino, com 15 anos de idade, apresentando grande acúmulo de biofilme dental, alto risco de cárie, fluorose leve e gengivite generalizada. Clinicamente foi possível observar fratura de esmalte dos dentes 12 e 14. Os dentes 21, 22, 32 e 42 estavam ausentes clinicamente, o que se confirmou radiograficamente. Além disso, notou-se giroversão de 180 graus do dente 11, com a face palatina voltada para a vestibular. O dente apresentou-se com leve alteração de cor, mas com resposta positiva aos testes de vitalidade. Resultados: Técnicas de manejo de comportamental, foram adotadas e orientações quanto à higiene bucal e dietéticas foram fornecidas tanto ao paciente quanto ao seu cuidador. Quatro sessões de profilaxia e aplicação tópica de flúor foram realizadas semanalmente. O tratamento endodôntico foi realizado no dente 12, seguido da restauração de resina composta do dente 12 e 14 e a restauração estética do dente 11 (girovertido). Por fim, foi realizada uma prótese adesiva para restaurar a estética da região de incisivo central superior. Apesar das dificuldades para tratar pacientes com SLG, no presente caso foi possível obter resultados funcionais e estéticos satisfatórios com um diagnóstico e tratamento cuidadoso, envolvendo uma equipe multiprofissional treinada no atendimento de pacientes com necessidades especiais. Conclusão: Pode-se concluir que o cirurgião dentista deve estar familiarizado com as possíveis manifestações bucais da SLG e realizar uma pesquisa criteriosa de sinais de traumatismo dental e, sempre que possível, solicitar um exame radiográfico para que traumatismos não identificados ao exame clínico não passem desapercebidos.

Introduction: Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LSG) is a severe childhood epileptic encephalopathy. Its treatment is complex, mainly due to the multiplicity of epileptic crises, which in turn favors the occurrence of dental injuries. Objective: The aim of this case report is to present the clinical management of a patient with LGS, victim of recurrent trauma, discuss the observed dental findings and the dental treatment. Case report: Patient L.H.D.L., male, 15 years old presenting high quantity of oral biofilm, mild fluorosis and generalized gingivitis. Clinically, it was possible to observe enamel fractures of teeth 12 and 14. Teeth 21, 22, 32 and 42 were clinically absent, which was confirmed radiographically. In addition, a 180-degree rotation of tooth 11 was noted, with the palate facing the buccal aspect. The tooth presented a slight change in color, but with a positive response to vitality tests. Results: Behavioral management techniques were adopted and guidelines on oral hygiene and diet were provided to both the patient and their caregiver. Four sessions of prophylaxis and topical application of fluoride were performed weekly. Endodontic treatment was performed on tooth 12, followed by aesthetic restoration of teeth 12 and 14 and esthetic restoration of tooth 11 (rotated). Finally, an adhesive prosthesis was performed to restore the esthetics of the upper central incisor region. Despite the difficulties of treating patients with LGS, in the present case it was possible to obtain satisfactory functional and aesthetic results with a careful diagnosis and treatment, involving a multidisciplinary team trained in the care of patients with special needs. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the dental surgeon must be aware with the possible oral manifestations of GLS and carry out a careful search for signs of dental trauma and, whenever possible, request a radiographic examination so that unidentified traumas on clinical examination do not pass unnoticed.

Effect of root surface treatment with denusomab after delayed tooth replantation.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate denosumab, a human monoclonal antibody that mimics the effects of osteoprotegerin in bone metabolism, as a topical treatment of root surface to be used prior to delayed tooth replantation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six rats' right incisors were used. Teeth were extracted and divided into: delayed replantation without root surface treatment (control); delayed replantation with root surface treatment with denosumab 60 mg/mL and 30 mg/mL, respectively, for 10 min both experimentals groups. After that, the root canals were filled with calcium hydroxide and replanted. After 15 and 60 days, the animals were euthanized, and the samples were collected and processed for microscopic analysis. Histological sections were performed, and stained with HE to describe the dental characteristics, measure ankylosis, replacement resorption, and dental resorption by conventional microscopy. Also, was performed Brown & Brenn staining and immunohistochemistry for RANKL, OPG, and periostin. RESULTS: Denosumab 60 mg/mL reducted ankylosis (p < 0.0001), replacement resorption (p < 0.0001), and tooth resorption, 60 days after replantation, compared to untreated replanted teeth (p < 0.005). Lower bacterial contamination in root surface in the denosumab treatment groups was found, regardless of the concentration used (p < 0.001). Also, denosumab treatment inhibited the expression of RANKL without modulating OPG. Periostin was observed in periodontal ligament of replanted tooth, although this labelling was absent in the ankylosis areas, in both experimental periods. CONCLUSION: Treatment of the root surface with denosumab at 60 mg/mL of rat teeth before delayed replantation reduced dental root resorption compared with the untreated teeth after 60 days. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Survival of a replanted tooth has been a challenge in clinical practice. The use of a medication, such as denosumab, to limit dental root resorption represents an important therapeutical approach.