Comparative Evaluation of Biofilm Formation on Temporization Crown Materials Used in the Rehabilitation of Primary Dentition With Different Polishing Materials: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction Advancements in dental materials have enhanced aesthetic treatments for managing dental caries and injuries in primary dentition. Bis-acryl composite-based temporization materials are now preferred for restoring primary crowns due to their superior properties. However, prolonged exposure to dietary and hygienic factors can lead to discoloration and roughness, making efficient polishing essential to prevent plaque buildup. Objective This study aims to evaluate Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation on temporization material polished with different polishing systems. Methods This study tested bis-acryl methacrylate temporization material. Thirty disk-shaped specimens were prepared and divided into three groups according to the polishing system used (n = 10 per group): Shofu Super Snap mini kit (Shofu, San Marcos, CA), aluminum oxide polishing paste, and propol polishing paste. Each group's specimens were polished according to the manufacturer's instructions. Surface roughness (SR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) morphological analysis, and Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation were assessed for each group. Results The results showed significant differences in roughness average (Ra) values among the polishing materials, with the Shofu Super Snap mini kit having the highest roughness (Ra = 2.04), followed by propol polishing paste (Ra = 1.30) and aluminum oxide paste (Ra = 0.75). Additionally, polishing methods significantly affected mean colony-forming unit (CFU) levels, with the first group having the highest mean CFU value (0.24), with SEM images showing substantial biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans. Conclusion Bacterial biofilm formation on the aluminum oxide paste group's surface differed from that on the propol polishing paste and aluminum oxide disc groups. The polishing techniques that we tested significantly influenced surface properties and biofilm formation. These findings suggest that selecting an appropriate polishing system can reduce the risk of gingival inflammation associated with temporization materials.

Altered Passive Eruption among Patients Visiting Dental Outpatient Department in a Tertiary Care Center: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION: The eruption of teeth is considered to be a continuous phenomenon. Two types of eruption are possible namely, active and passive eruption. Failure in passive eruption (by the apical movement of gingiva from the enamel surface) generally results in a clinical condition known as altered passive eruption. It can result in the shortened crown height of a tooth and an esthetically unpleasant situation i.e., excessive gingival display or gummy smile. The main motto of this study was to find out the prevalence of altered passive eruption and associated gingival biotypes in adult patients visiting for dental treatment in tertiary centers along with strategically placed outreach centers. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done in the Department of Dentistry, Dhulikhel Hospital, and four outreach centers of the same hospital. The study was conducted from October 2022 to April 2023 after obtaining the ethical approval. Convenience sampling was done. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated. RESULTS: Among 165 patients, the prevalence of altered passive eruption was 21 (12.72%) (7.62-17.78 at 95% Confidence Interval). Furthermore, among 21 patients, the altered passive eruption was seen in the thick biotype patients in 16 (76.19%) and thin biotype patients in 5 (23.81%). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of altered passive eruption appeared to be equivalent when compared with the previous studies.

Clinical and Radiographic Evaluation of Soft Tissue and Bone Status in Immediate Loaded Implants Placed Following Their Extraction in the Maxillary Anterior Region.

INTRODUCTION: In the maxillary anterior region, teeth extraction leads to significant soft and hard tissue changes. Immediate implant placement following extraction aims to reduce bone loss and overall treatment time. However, it may result in adverse soft tissue changes impacting esthetics. This study evaluates the clinical and radiographic outcomes of immediately loaded implants in the maxillary anterior region, focusing on soft tissue preservation and bone status. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study, conducted from April 2022 to August 2024 at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Ragas Dental College and Hospital, included 10 immediately loaded implants in seven patients. Following atraumatic extraction, implants were placed and loaded with functional provisional crowns fabricated using three-dimensional (3D) rapid prototyping models. Parameters such as crestal bone loss, buccal and palatal bone width, and interdental papilla thickness were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively using radiographs and clinical assessments. RESULTS: The study found significant crestal bone loss at both mesial and distal sites over time, with the greatest loss observed at the three-month follow-up. Buccal and palatal bone width showed no significant differences preoperatively and postoperatively. Interdental papilla thickness and overall pink esthetic scores also showed no significant differences between preoperative and postoperative evaluations. CONCLUSION: Immediate implant placement in the maxillary anterior region, using 3D rapid prototyping for custom splint fabrication, demonstrated effective preservation of soft tissue profile and bone architecture. This approach provides functional and esthetic benefits, although careful monitoring of crestal bone loss is necessary.

Altered Passive Eruption among Patients Visiting Dental Outpatient Department in a Tertiary Care Center: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION: The eruption of teeth is considered to be a continuous phenomenon. Two types of eruption are possible namely, active and passive eruption. Failure in passive eruption (by the apical movement of gingiva from the enamel surface) generally results in a clinical condition known as altered passive eruption. It can result in the shortened crown height of a tooth and an esthetically unpleasant situation i.e., excessive gingival display or gummy smile. The main motto of this study was to find out the prevalence of altered passive eruption and associated gingival biotypes in adult patients visiting for dental treatment in tertiary centers along with strategically placed outreach centers. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done in the Department of Dentistry, Dhulikhel Hospital, and four outreach centers of the same hospital. The study was conducted from October 2022 to April 2023 after obtaining the ethical approval. Convenience sampling was done. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated. RESULTS: Among 165 patients, the prevalence of altered passive eruption was 21 (12.72%) (7.62-17.78 at 95% Confidence Interval). Furthermore, among 21 patients, the altered passive eruption was seen in the thick biotype patients in 16 (76.19%) and thin biotype patients in 5 (23.81%). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of altered passive eruption appeared to be equivalent when compared with the previous studies.

Effect of suturing in root coverage via coronally advanced flaps: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: To analyze the evidence about the influence of the suturing technique and material in terms of the percentage of mean root coverage (%MRC) following root coverage therapy in teeth diagnosed with single/localized gingival recession defects (GRD) via a monolaminar coronally advanced flap. METHODS: The protocol of this systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024514043). A literature search was conducted to identify investigations that fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Variables of interest were extracted, subsequently categorized, and qualitatively analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 15 randomized clinical trials, including 301 localized GRD in non-molar sites classified as Miller class I-II/RT1, in 253 patients were included. The studies reporting the combination of sling and single interrupted sutures, or interrupted sutures alone showed an MRC of 70.2%±16.6%, and 74.1%±0.75%, respectively. The highest MRC was observed in the studies using polyglactin 910 with a pooled value of 76.6% ± 15.3%, and monofilament materials, with a pooled MRC of 74.8%±7.1%. When the suturing diameter was evaluated, the highest pooled MRC with values of 79.1%±9.8% was observed with the use of 5-0. CONCLUSIONS: For the treatment of single/localized GRD in non-molar sites via a monolaminar coronally advanced flap, the use of a combination of sling and single interrupted sutures, or single interrupted sutures, polyglactin 910 or monofilament materials, and material diameter of 5-0 showed a higher MRC as compared to the use of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, and silk with/without dressing, and other suture diameters. KEY POINTS: There were no differences in the percentage of root coverage achieved between the use of sling and single interrupted, versus single interrupted sutures alone on the treatment of single/localized GRD in non-molar sites. Polyglactin 910 and monofilament sutures resulted in a higher percentage of root coverage achieved as compared to expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, and silk with/without dressing. The use of 5-0 material diameter showed the highest percentage of root coverage achieved. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: This study was primarily aimed at evaluating how different suturing techniques and materials could affect the percentage of root coverage in single/localized recession defects, without the use of soft tissue substitutes or autogenous soft tissue grafts. After the pooled analyses of 15 randomized clinical trials that fulfilled the inclusion criteria, we observed that the adequate selection of suturing techniques, materials, and size could lead to a higher percentage of root coverage. Specifically, the use of single interrupted with or without sling sutures at the most coronal portion, Polyglactin 910 or monofilament materials, and size of 5-0 showed a higher percentage of root coverage as compared to the use of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, and silk with/without dressing, and other suture diameters.

Harmonizing soft tissue subnasale and chin position in a forehead-based framework: interracial commonalities and differences between Asian and Caucasian females.

OBJECTIVES: To establish a reference system for assessing the anteroposterior (A-P) position of the subnasal and lower-facial soft tissues for whole facial harmony. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty Asian and 40 Caucasian females with attractive profiles were selected as the "attractive" samples, with "ordinary" samples for comparison. Each profile was analyzed, and comparisons were made to reveal the interracial commonalities and differences. Esthetically essential parameters were established. An averaged attractive profile for each race was created by digital morphing and then modified into 30 variations based on combined variations of the esthetically essential parameters. Assessments were performed to investigate the esthetic ranges. RESULTS: A-P position of the subnasal and lower-facial landmarks harmonized with the forehead for female profile esthetics. In addition to balanced soft tissue subnasale (sSn)- and soft titssue pogonion (Pos)-to-forehead A-P relations, harmonizing lower-facial soft tissues to sSn was indispensable for profile attractiveness. sSn-to-glabella, Pos-to-glabella, and Pos-to-sSn A-P relations were esthetically essential. Perceived by orthodontists, the attractive Asian female profiles had sSn-to-glabella A-P relations ranging from 0.5 mm to 4.5 mm, Pos-to-sSn from -9.0 mm to -5.5 mm, and Pos-to-glabella from -8.5 mm to -1.0 mm. Compared with Asians, the attractive Caucasian female profiles had more anteriorly and widely distributed sSn relative to the forehead, wider ranges of Pos-to-sSn A-P relations, and more prominent chins. CONCLUSIONS: A reference system comprising sSn-glabella, Pos-sSn, and Pos-glabella horizontal distances was constructed for facial profile analysis. This system could aid treatment planning for surgical or orthopedic repositioning of the maxilla and chin.

Comparative Evaluation of Tear Strength and Tensile Strength of Different Types of Gingival Mask Materials: An In Vitro Study.

INTRODUCTION: The implant-supported prosthetic treatment strategy is commonly chosen in modern dentistry to address tooth loss caused by a variety of conditions or dental defects. To achieve healthy and natural-looking results in implant dentistry, it is essential to replicate the peri-implant soft tissue. The gingival tissue that surrounds implants is quite accurately replicated by gingival masks. They facilitate more accurate prosthesis restoration design, enhance periodontal health, and promote oral cleanliness. Furthermore, gingival masks allow for the accurate observation of superstructure seating on implant analogs, which is essential for creating superstructures that fit perfectly. AIM AND OBJECTIVE:  To evaluate the change in tear strength and tensile strength of three different gingival mask materials (esthetic mask auto mix, Gi-Mask and Gingifast Rigid) available in the market at various time intervals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Total of 540 specimens were fabricated with 180 samples of each group. Changes in tensile strength and tear strength of three different gingival mask materials (esthetic mask auto mix, Gi-Mask and Gingifast Rigid) at intervals of one day, three days, and seven days were measured by a universal testing machine. Statistical analysis was done using one-way ANOVA and Tukey Post Hoc test. We also performed correlation and regression analyses on tear and tensile strength. RESULTS: The null hypothesis, which is supported by these data, claims that there is no discernible variation in the tear strength and tensile strength of three distinct materials across various time intervals. Thus, the null hypothesis was rejected, and it was concluded that there was a significant change in the tear strength and tensile strength of these gingival mask materials at different time intervals. Esthetic mask auto mix has a high tear strength compared to Gi-Mask and gingifast rigid. Gi-Mask has the least tear strength among all three. Tensile strength decreases as time increases, but the Esthetic mask auto mix has high strength compared to Gi-Mask and gingifast rigid. CONCLUSION: Selecting the right material for gingival masks is essential, taking into account the clinical scenario and the articulation time. Time influences gingival mask materials' tear strength and tensile strength, which impacts their performance and durability. Esthetic mask auto mix has a high tear and tensile strength compared to Gi-Mask and gingifast rigid.

Ocular Complication in Facial Aesthetic Laser and Light Treatments: A Comprehensive Review.

BACKGROUND: The increasing popularity of laser- and light-based esthetic treatments for facial rejuvenation has raised concerns regarding ocular safety. Although these procedures are generally considered safe and effective, there is a growing body of evidence highlighting the potential for ocular complications. This review aims to systematically analyze the types and mechanisms of ocular injuries associated with such treatments, as well as to evaluate preventive measures and management strategies. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases including MEDLINE, PubMed and Ovid for relevant studies published on clinical trials, diagnosis and treatment. Some papers were further reviewed using a double-blinding approach, varying sample sizes, control usage, randomization usage and objective endpoint measurements. All studies were classified according to the Oxford Centre for evidence-based medicine evidence hierarchy. RESULT: Our review identified several types of ocular complications associated with facial laser or light treatments, including but not limited to conjunctival burns, corneal damage, retinal phototoxicity, and transient vision disturbances. The incidence of these complications varies significantly depending on the type of laser or light source employed, treatment parameters, and the anatomical proximity of the eyes to the treatment area. Factors such as inadequate protective measures, patient movement during the procedure, and the operator's experience were found to contribute to the risk of ocular injury. Strategies such as the use of appropriate eye protection, careful patient positioning, and thorough pre-treatment assessments were highlighted as essential preventive measures. CONCLUSION: Ocular complications, though rare, represent a significant risk in facial esthetic laser and light treatments. This review underscores the importance of awareness among practitioners regarding the potential ocular hazards and the implementation of robust safety protocols. Future research is needed to establish standardized guidelines to minimize risks and enhance patient safety in esthetic dermatological practices. Continued education and improved protective strategies will be essential in safeguarding ocular health as the field of esthetic treatments continues to evolve. This comprehensive review serves as an essential resource for practitioners, informing them of ocular risks, management options, and the need for vigilance to mitigate complications in clinical practice.

Evaluating the Long-Term Effects of Orthodontic Treatment on Facial Esthetics and Aging.

Background: Orthodontic treatment is known to significantly impact facial esthetics, but there is a lack of long-term studies examining its effects, particularly in conjunction with the natural aging process. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the enduring effects of orthodontic treatment on facial esthetics and aging over a 15-year period. Materials and Methods: Three hundred orthodontic patients aged 12 to 25 at the start of treatment were included. Dental alignment, soft tissue transformations, skeletal changes, and patient-reported outcomes were measured objectively. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare pretreatment and post-treatment measurements. Results: Significant improvements were observed across various aspects following orthodontic treatment. Dental alignment showed a marked reduction in crowding, with an average decrease of 5.2 mm. Soft tissue transformations revealed notable advancements in lip positioning, averaging 3.8 mm, along with increased lip thickness. Skeletal changes were relatively modest, characterized by subtle alterations in chin positioning and mandibular angles. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction, reflected by an average score of 9.2 on the satisfaction scale. Despite treatment efficacy, the aging process continued to manifest natural changes in skin elasticity and fat distribution over the 15-year follow-up period. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of orthodontic outcomes and highlight the importance of considering long-term effects on facial esthetics and aging. Conclusion: This longitudinal study provides valuable insights into the long-term effects of orthodontic treatment on facial esthetics and aging. It highlights significant improvements in dental alignment and soft tissue transformations, along with sustained patient satisfaction. However, modest skeletal changes and the ongoing aging process emphasize the need for managing patient expectations. These findings can guide practitioners and patients in making informed decisions regarding orthodontic interventions.

Social media impact on students' decision-making regarding aesthetic dental treatments based on cross-sectional survey data.

This study investigated the influence of social media on patients regarding aesthetic dental treatments according to sex, type of treatment, and time since their last treatment. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a web-based survey. Participants were students over 18 years of age who were social media users and had undergone aesthetic dental treatment. 504 responses were included. Data evaluation was made using Pearson chi-square test. The level of significance was set at p < .05. 29.37% of the respondents indicated that social media influenced their decision to have their aesthetic treatment. Regarding the influence of social media, no differences were observed between males and females, nor by type of aesthetic treatment. Participants who had undergone an aesthetic dental treatment within the last year were more influenced by social media than those who had undergone it more than two years ago. Posts from dental clinics or dentists were the type of content that most influenced participants. Social media can influence some patients' decision to undergo aesthetic dental treatment, thus dental practices and dentists should consider the increasing importance of social media in their daily practice.

A conservative approach for keratinized tissue augmentation: Report of two cases.

BACKGROUND: Free gingival graft harvested from the palate is considered the most predictable method to augment the keratinized tissue (KT). However, the anatomical limitations of the palate, and associated patient morbidity and complications restrict clinicians from performing these procedures in adolescents. Color mismatch with the native tissues resulting in poor esthetic appearance is another concern. To overcome these limitations, this article reports a surgical approach known as labial gingival graft (LGG) as an alternative to palatal graft. METHODS: Two adolescent patients presenting with absence of attached gingiva and shallow gingival recession in the mandibular incisor region were treated with LGG harvested from the labial KT of teeth adjacent to those requiring KT augmentation. RESULTS: The procedure was well tolerated by the patients. At the final follow-up (3.5- and 2 years from baseline), a significant gain in KT with complete root coverage was achieved in both patients. Both professional and patient-centered esthetic evaluations revealed excellent color match making the grafted area imperceptible from the adjacent mucosa. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed technique was found to be simple and predictable, and was associated with minimal morbidity and no complications. Clinicians may consider performing LGG procedure when sufficient KT can be harvested from adjacent donor site. The selection of such techniques is of particular relevance in children who are vulnerable to complications associated with more invasive procedures. KEY POINTS: Why are these cases new information? To the best of our knowledge, this article is the first to present the use of labial gingival graft harvested from adjacent keratinized mucosa in adolescent patients. What are the keys to successful management of these cases? Proper case selection in terms of sufficient amount of keratinized tissue to harvest as labial gingival graft from adjacent teeth. Use of smaller instruments, small-sized needles, and sutures under magnification to minimize trauma to the tissues /graft. Preparation of an immobile periosteal bed and suturing protocol that minimizes the dead space and ensures revascularization of graft. What are the primary limitations to success in these cases? A prerequisite of the presence of thick gingiva and sufficient dimensions of KT around the adjacent teeth further limits its applicability in all cases.

Effects of facial forms and midline deviations and rolls on female facial beauty according to laypeople, orthodontists, and prosthodontists or restorative dentists.

No study has examined the simultaneous effect of facial forms, midline deviations and midline angulations on facial beauty. Therefore, this comprehensive study aimed to evaluate these and many other hypotheses. This psychometric study was performed on 15,042 observations. A female frontal photograph was edited to 45 perceptometric images with controlled anatomical alteration: 3 facial forms (euryprosopic [brachyfacial], mesoprosopic [mesofacial], leptoprosopic [dolichofacial]), each having either 9 bidirectional midline deviations (0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 mm deviated to the left and right) or 7 bidirectional midline angular deviations (0°, 5°, 10°, and 15° deviated to the left and right). One of the photographs were repeated. These 46 images were esthetically judged by 327 participants (243 laypeople, 49 orthodontists, and 35 'prosthodontists or restorative dentists'). Hierarchical mixed-model multiple linear regressions and post hoc tests were adopted to evaluate the simultaneous impacts of the photomodel's facial forms, midline deviations to the right or left, and midline rolls to the right or left plus sex, age, experience, and dental specialty of the referees on their perception of facial beauty as well as the tolerable zones of midline alterations. These were also done separately for each specialty group, and also for each facial face. Ideal combinations of anatomic features were determined using repeated-measures ANOVAs. Differences between esthetic preferences of different groups in terms of each image were assessed using one-way ANOVAs and t-tests (α = 0.05, α = 0.008, α = 0.001). All 5 anatomical features significantly and independently influenced perception of facial beauty. The tolerance threshold for midline deviations was 1 mm deviations to the right and left sides. For midline rolls, the only tolerable form was the no-roll ('on') midline; the judges preferred right-oriented defects over left-sided ones. The most beautiful facial form was mesoprosopic, followed by leptoprosopic. Men perceived the female face slightly more attractive than did women. The viewers' specialty (or lack of it), their age, or their experience did not affect their esthetic preferences. Predictors of esthetic preferences were all 5 anatomical features plus views' sex, but not their dental specialty, age, or experience. Zones of acceptability and also the ideal range of anatomical features were determined.

Clinical effect of botulinum toxin type A combined with autologous fat grafting in patients with nasolabial fold depression.

BACKGROUND: Nasolabial fold (NLF) depression can affect the facial appearance of patients to some extent and increase their psychological burdens. In recent years, autologous fat grafting (AFG) combined with botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) injection (AFG + BTX-A injection) has been gradually applied in the treatment of patients with NLF depression. Although studies have been conducted on the efficacy and safety of AFG + BTX-A injection in treating NLF depression, the experimental design, observational indicators, and sample enrollment criteria vary remarkably, making it difficult to draw convincing and consistent conclusions. Thus, further relevant research is warranted. AIM: To assess the esthetic improvement, efficacy, and safety of AFG + BTX-A injections in patients with NLF depression. METHODS: This study included 60 patients with NLF depression who were treated in our hospital from February 2019 to April 2021. These patients were categorized into control (n = 30) and observation (n = 30) groups. The observation group received AFG + BTX-A injection, whereas the control group underwent AFG only. All patients were evaluated using the wrinkle severity rating scale (WSRS) and global aesthetic improvement scale. The compactness of facial contours, skin evaluation indexes, adverse reactions, and satisfaction of the two groups were evaluated 3 months postoperatively. RESULTS: The WSRS scores of the observation group at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively were lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). Three months postoperatively, facial fine lines and pores showed obvious improvement and the skin index score was higher in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The compactness of facial contours was better in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, no remarkable differences were noted in the incidence of postoperative adverse reactions such as facial stiffness, facial asymmetry, facial bruising, and facial concavity inequality (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: AFG + BTX-A injection is a highly safe, cost-effective, effective, and long-lasting treatment for NLF depression with high esthetic value, which should be promoted in the future.

Spot-etch technique and other adhesive strategies for provisional veneers.

AIM: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of different adhesive strategies regarding shear bond strength (SBS) of provisional resin--based materials bonded to the enamel surface as well as on the enamel surface roughness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine incisors were randomly divided into six groups (n = 10) according to the adhesive strategy used: BRControl (bis-acrylic resin); Spot-etch+BR (spot-etch + bis-acrylic resin); Spot--etchSB2+BR (spot-etch + adhesive + bis-acrylic resin); Spot-etchZ350Flow+BR (spot-etch + flowable composite resin + bis-acrylic resin); SBU+BR (universal adhesive + bis-acrylic resin); Spot-etchSBMP+Z350 (spot-etch + adhesive + composite resin). The enamel surface roughness was determined by a surface profil-ometer. An SBS test was performed in a universal testing machine, and failure modes were classified under magnification. The SBS data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). A paired t test was used for enamel surface roughness intragroup comparisons, and the Friedman one-way repeated meas-ures analysis of variance by ranks was used for differences in enamel surface roughness between groups, with the Tukey post hoc test (a = 0.05). RESULTS: BRControl had the lowest SBS values (MPa), with a significant difference (P ≤ 0.001) from the other groups. Spot-etch+BR had the highest SBS values but with no significant differences from the other groups in which the spot-etch technique was also used. Adhesive failure mode was predominant for all groups. BRControl had the lowest surface roughness difference, significantly different (P = 0.001) from all the other groups. CONCLUSIONS: Spot-etch and other adhesive strategies could be applied to increase the SBS values of provisional restorations to enamel compared with no surface pretreatment. However, the adhesive strategy may change the enamel surface roughness, revealing the importance of cleaning the tooth surface.

Conservative Management of Uneven Anterior Teeth Spacing using Lingual Porcelain Laminate Veneers: Report of Two Cases with 2- and 6-year follow-up.

Porcelain laminate veneers (PLV) offer a conservative aesthetic solution for interdental space closure. However, space is typically not distributed symmetrically, and the mesiodistal width of the restored teeth may increase unless multiple teeth are prepared for conventional PLV to maintain appropriate individual tooth proportion. Ceramic fragments can be suggested to close the space without modifying tooth size and dental proportion. This article presents two cases where interdental gaps were closed using lingually placed porcelain laminate (LPPL). All stages of the restorative procedures, including treatment planning, temporization, tooth preparation, and cementation of these delicate restorations, are detailed. Based on the results of these clinical reports, we regard the use of LPPL as a successful treatment option in selected cases, as evidenced by 2- and 6-year follow-ups. The Modified United State Public Health Criteria is reported.

Nonextraction Treatment of Maxillary Canine and Lateral Incisor Transposition: A Case Report.

The transposition of teeth is an infrequent dental abnormality characterized by the exchange of position between two adjacent teeth. This report presents a unique case of transposition involving the maxillary right canine and lateral incisor in a 20-year-old female patient. Clinical assessment and radiographic evaluation revealed the unconventional positioning of the affected teeth. Treatment planning necessitated collaborative efforts between orthodontic specialists to achieve optimal esthetic and functional outcomes. The patient underwent a comprehensive treatment regimen, including orthodontic alignment by distal drifting of the canine and mesial shifting of the lateral incisor. Subsequent long-term follow-ups confirmed stable occlusion and satisfactory esthetics in a time period of 18 months. This case underscores the significance of precise diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach in managing intricate dental anomalies such as tooth transposition.

Laser Depigmentation: A Case Report.

The pigmented lesions of the oral cavity may be endogenous or exogenous. Among the options for depigmenting these areas, laser therapy stands out for being a minimally invasive procedure. This study aims to report a clinical case of the gingival depigmentation technique using a high-power diode laser in the anterior maxillary region, for the ablation of the pigmented tissue to improve gingival aesthetics. The patient had an aesthetic complaint of the darkened aspect of the gingiva in the anterior maxillary portions. After local anesthesia, we started depigmentation with a high-power diode laser and performed ablation from the attached gingiva toward the free marginal gingiva. The patient returned after 30 and 180 days presenting healthy gingiva and absence of melanin repigmentation. Thus, we concluded that the diode laser was a good alternative for melanin depigmentation because it is a procedure with lower morbidity and satisfactory results.

Severe Discoloration of the Alveolar Bone Secondary to Long-Term Minocycline Therapy: A Case Report.

Minocycline, the synthetic derivative of the antibiotic tetracycline, has been used for a variety of medical treatments. One such use for minocycline is for acne vulgaris. Although widely used, minocycline has a common side effect of discoloration of tissues, including bone, skin, and mucosa. This case report presents a 19-year-old female patient with a history of long-term minocycline therapy for acne vulgaris who presented for periodontal esthetic crown lengthening. The initial exam revealed a blue-gray discoloration of the mucosa. Upon surgical exploration, it was discovered that the discoloration originated from the underlying alveolar bone with minimal gingival involvement. Surgical removal and recontouring of the bony exostoses revealed that the bone remained deeply stained. Although the discolored bone was not fully removed, the patient was able to obtain an acceptable esthetic result.