Longitudinal Follow-up Comparing Future Care of Primary Teeth Treated with Silver Diammine Fluoride: A Private Dental Claims Review.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to longitudinally evaluate follow-up treatment on primary teeth initially treated with silver diammine fluoride (SDF). Methods: This retrospective cohort evaluated private insurance (not Medicaid) claims data from 2018 to 2019 for children no older than 12 years with at least one primary tooth initially treated with SDF. Additional treatment per tooth was recorded over a follow-up of at least 24 months. Results: The mean and standard deviation (±SD) age of 46,884 patients was 5.7±2.3 and for SDF-treated teeth per patient was 2.6±2.1. Forty percent (95 percent confidence interval [95% CI] equals 39 to 40.7 percent) of teeth initially treated with SDF received additional treatment. The odds of SDF-treated teeth receiving future treatment significantly decreased with patient age by 22 percent per year (odds ratio equals 0.78; 95% CI equals 0.077 to 0.79; P<0.001). Pediatric dentists had only slightly lower odds than general dentists for providing additional treatment (0.91, P<0.001). Posterior teeth and teeth expected to exfoliate in two or more years had significantly higher odds of receiving additional treatment (2.47 and 1.27, respectively, P<0.001). Conclusions: Beginning at age four, patient age at placement of silver diammine fluoride was inversely proportional to future treatment provided. Posterior teeth and teeth expected to exfoliate in two or more years were more likely to receive additional treatment.

Isolation, Culture, and Characterization of Dental Pulp Stem Cells from Human Deciduous and Permanent Teeth.

In the realm of regenerative medicine and therapeutic applications, stem cell research is rapidly gaining traction. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), which are present in both deciduous and permanent teeth, have emerged as a vital stem cell source due to their accessibility, adaptability, and innate differentiation capabilities. DPSCs offer a readily available and abundant reservoir of mesenchymal stem cells, showcasing impressive versatility and potential, particularly for regenerative purposes. Despite their promise, the main hurdle lies in effectively isolating and characterizing DPSCs, given their representation as a minute fraction within dental pulp cells. Equally crucial is the proper preservation of this invaluable cellular resource. The two predominant methods for DPSC isolation are enzymatic digestion (ED) and outgrowth from tissue explants (OG), often referred to as spontaneous growth. This protocol concentrates primarily on the enzymatic digestion approach for DPSC isolation, intricately detailing the steps encompassing extraction, in-lab processing, and cell preservation. Beyond extraction and preservation, the protocol delves into the differentiation prowess of DPSCs. Specifically, it outlines the procedures employed to induce these stem cells to differentiate into adipocytes, osteoblasts, and chondrocytes, showcasing their multipotent attributes. Subsequent utilization of colorimetric staining techniques facilitates accurate visualization and confirmation of successful differentiation, thereby validating the caliber and functionality of the isolated DPSCs. This comprehensive protocol functions as a blueprint encompassing the entire spectrum of dental pulp stem cell extraction, cultivation, preservation, and characterization. It underscores the substantial potential harbored by DPSCs, propelling forward stem cell exploration and holding promise for future regenerative and therapeutic breakthroughs.

2-year survival and cost analysis of occlusoproximal ART restorations using encapsulated glass ionomer cement in primary molars: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The survival of ART restorations can be influenced by the choice of the restorative material. The aim of this randomized non-inferiority controlled trial was to compare the 2-year survival rate and cost analysis of two encapsulated glass ionomer cements (GIC) as occlusoproximal restorative materials in primary molars. METHODS: Children from public schools in Tietê (Brazil), aged 4-8 years with occlusoproximal dentine carious lesions in primary molars were selected and randomly assigned to receive either Equia Forte (EF) or Riva Self Cure (RSC) as restorative materials. Treatment was carried out by two trained final-year dental students in schools following ART premises. Restorations were assessed by a trained and calibrated examiner after 2, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. The primary outcome was restoration survival after 2 years, analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analysis (α = 5%). Professional and materials costs for each group were collected in Brazilian Reais (R$) and converted into US dollars (US$) and analyzed using Monte-Carlo simulation. RESULTS: A total of 152 children (76 per group) were included in the study, and 121 (79%) were evaluated after 2 years. The overall 2-year restoration survival rate was 39% (EF = 45%; RSC = 32%) with no difference between the groups. The baseline and 2-year total cost of restorations using RSC was lower when compared to EF (incremental cost: US$ 6.18). CONCLUSION: After two years of follow-up, Riva Self Cure shows comparable restoration survival rates to Equia Forte, being more cost-effective in the Brazilian perspective. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This randomized clinical trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.Gov - NCT02730000.

[The results of vital pulpotomy in primary teeth in children with negative behavior]. / Rezul'taty vital'noi pul'potomii vo vremennykh zubakh u detei s negativnym povedeniem.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study. Comparative assessment of the results of vital pulpotomy in primary teeth in children with negative behavior when using non-drug behavior correction or sedation with preserved consciousness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The proportions (%), 95% Confidence Interval (CI), the Student's criterion and χ2 for assessment of the difference between indicators were calculated. After 24 months, the pulpotomy efficiency in the 1st group was lower than in the 2nd group: 81.7% (95% CI 74.7-88.6%) and 89.2% (95% CI 83.6-94.7%), respectively, p>0.05. RESULTS: The proportions (%), 95% Confidence Interval (CI), the Student's criterion and χ2 for assessment of the difference between indicators were calculated. After 24 months, the pulpotomy efficiency in the 1st group was lower than in the 2nd group: 81.7% (95% CI 74.7-88.6%) and 89.2% (95% CI 83.6-94.7%), respectively, p>0.05. CONCLUSION: The treatment of the children aged 3-6 years with negative behavior under sedation with preserved consciousness increased the results of pulpotomy in primary teeth mainly due to the improvement of the quality of restorations.

Cone-beam computed tomography evaluation of shaping ability of kedo-S square and fanta AF™ baby rotary files compared to manual K-files in root canal preparation of primary anterior teeth.

BACKGROUND: Pediatric rotary file systems were developed to solve manual file limitations. With many systems available, it may be tricky to select the most appropriate one. AIM: to assess & compare Kedo-S Square, Fanta-AF™-Baby rotary files with manual K-file concerning removed dentin amount, canal transportation, centric ability & root canal taper using CBCT in primary anterior teeth. DESIGN: Extracted Seventy-five upper primary anterior teeth with intact 2/3 root length were collected and divided into three groups based on root canal instrumentation, group-I: prepared using K-file, group-II: prepared using Kedo-S Square, and group-III: prepared using Fanta AF™ Baby file. The teeth were imaged with CBCT before & following canal instrumentation. Then, the removed dentin amount was calculated at each root-canal level. The Kruskal-Wallis test was utilized to statistically analyze study data. RESULT: The difference among the three groups was highly statistically significant at cervical & apical thirds concerning dentin thickness changes on both mesial & distal sides following canal preparation with the least removed dentin in the Kedo-S Square group(P < 0.0001). Regarding transportation & centering ability, a non-significant difference between the three groups was found. 80% of the Fanta AF™ Baby group had good-tapered preparation compared to the Kedo-S Square (72%) and K-file (40%) groups(P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Kedo-S Square was preferable to Fanta-AFTM-Baby & manual K-files in primary root canal preparation.

Enamel remineralisation prospect of Moringa Oleifera hydrogel, eggshell hydrogel versus sodium fluoride varnish on artificially demineralised primary teeth: in vitro study.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the present in vitro study is to investigate and compare the remineralising potential of Moringa Oleifera extract, eggshell, and sodium fluoride varnish on microhardness of artificially demineralised enamel of primary teeth with biomimetic minimally invasive approach following the world paradigm shift towards natural products in paediatric dentistry. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sample size included 44 primary molars. The mineral content and surface microhardness of all specimens were initially assessed using energy dispersive x-ray examination (EDX) and Vickers microhardness. The specimens were artificially demineralised for 96 h at a temperature of 37°C and then reassessed directly after demineralisation. The demineralised enamel specimens were randomly divided into four groups according to the remineralisation regimen utilised. Group 1: Artificial saliva (control); Group 2: Sodium fluoride varnish; Group 3: Eggshell hydrogel; and Group 4: Moringa Oleifera hydrogel. The specimens were stored for 8 days and then subsequently evaluated using EDX and microhardness assessment by Vickers microhardness test and scanning electron microscope (SEM).  Results: Regarding the microhardness test, there was a significant difference between the Moringa Oleifera group and Eggshell group compared to fluoride varnish (p < 0.05). Regarding EDX analysis, there was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between Moringa Oleifera group and Eggshell group compared to fluoride varnish as the highest values were for Moringa Oleifera and Eggshell. On the other hand, there was no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) between Moringa Oleifera and Eggshell in both the measurements. CONCLUSION: Moringa Oleifera and Eggshell might be considered as a biomimetic natural material capable of guiding enamel tissue remineralisation in early carious lesion of primary teeth. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This research demonstrated the capability for early enamel caries to be remineralised using novel materials with a naturally counterpart implicated in biomineralisation as proved to be more effective than traditionally used fluoride varnish in primary teeth.

Volumetric Analysis of Hand and Rotary Instrumentation, Root Canal Filling Techniques, and Obturation Materials in Primary Teeth Using Spiral CT.

AIM AND BACKGROUND: To compare the root canal volume in primary teeth using hand and rotary instruments and to evaluate root canal filling techniques and flow of root canal obturation materials in the postinstrumented root canal volume using spiral computed tomography (SCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Freshly extracted 16 primary molars were randomly divided into two groups and subjected to SCT analysis before and after instrumentation. For the manual technique (group I) with eight teeth were prepared using K files, and rotary (group II) eight teeth preparation was performed with ProTaper files. The filled volume in each canal was measured using SCT, and the percentage of obturated volume was calculated. The data were statistically analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference in both groups' volume of root canals enlarged. Even though both K files and the ProTaper system brought about enlarged canals after instrumentation, there was a statistically significant increase in volume after using K files in two canals. In three canals, there was a statistically significant increase in volume after using ProTaper. Irrespective of the obturation technique and materials used, there is no statistically significant difference in the volume after obturation. CONCLUSION: From the results of this study, the ProTaper file system shows suitable volumetric enlargement up to an optimum level, which is needed in primary root canal walls, and is better in canal shaping, as evidenced by good postobturation volume. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The traditional method of cleaning and shaping the root canals in permanent teeth using manual stainless-steel files can lead to undesirable curvatures in root canal morphology, making correctly filling the root canals difficult. It is also time-consuming and sometimes leads to iatrogenic errors. Rotary nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) instrumentation techniques have been developed to overcome these problems. How to cite this article: Yadav DBUC, Varma RB, Kumar JS, et al. Volumetric Analysis of Hand and Rotary Instrumentation, Root Canal Filling Techniques, and Obturation Materials in Primary Teeth Using Spiral CT. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(3):250-259.

Acid challenge exacerbates activation of matrix metalloproteinases in permanent teeth undergoing radiotherapy.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of acid challenge on the activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the Dentinoenamel junction of primary and permanent teeth submitted to radiotherapy. For this purpose, a total of 178 dental fragments obtained from molars were used, and randomly divided into 2 groups (primary and permanent teeth) / 4 experimental subgroups (irradiated and non-irradiated, demineralized and non-demineralized). The fragments were exposed to radiation, with a dose fraction of 2 Gy, for 5 consecutive days, until a total dose of 60 Gy was reached, with a total of 30 cycles, for 6 weeks. To determine the activity of MMPs on the dentinoenamel junction (DEJ), in situ zymography assays on 0.6mm dental fragments were performed. To assess whether MMP activity would be impacted by an acidic environment, the fragments were placed in a demineralizing solution (pH of 4.8). The finding was that irradiation activated MMPs in DEJ and these effects were more evident in permanent when compared with primary teeth. When the effect of an acid challenge on MMPs activity was investigated, demineralization was observed not to increase MMPs activity in non-irradiated teeth, but it did increase MMPs activity in irradiated teeth. In conclusion, an acid challenge was found to exacerbate activation of MMPs in DEJ of permanent teeth submitted to irradiation, but not in primary teeth.

Potential factors affecting the success rate of indirect pulp therapy in primary molars with deep caries: a retrospective study.

Indirect pulp therapy (IPT) is a common conservative treatment for deep dental caries. However, the potential risk factors for the prognosis of IPT have not been well studied. This study retrospectively investigated the success rate of IPT in treating primary molars with deep caries and the factors potentially affecting the two-year success rate. A total of 303 primary molars in 202 children (106 boys and 96 girls) were included in this study. These primary molars were identified as having deep caries by clinical and radiographic examinations and were treated with IPT. The factors potentially affecting the IPT success rate were analyzed after two years of follow-up. The results indicated that the two-year IPT success rate was 86% (262/303). The success rate of primary molars with and without stainless steel crowns was 96% (120/125) and 80% (142/178), respectively. Primary molars treated with stainless steel crowns showed a significantly lower risk of failure (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.18, 95% confidence interval (CI): (0.10, 0.34), p = 0.01). There were no significant differences in other factors, including gender (male vs. female), age (preschool vs. school age), cooperation level (Frankl 2 vs. 3 or 4 scales), arch type (maxillary vs. mandibular), tooth type (first vs. second primary molar), or pulp capping material (calcium hydroxide vs. glass ionomer cement). IPT is an effective, conservative treatment modality for primary molars with deep caries. Stainless steel crowns could significantly improve the IPT success rate.

Comparative evaluation of probiotic solutions on surface roughness and microhardness of different restorative materials and enamel.

This research study aimed to investigate the impact of probiotic mouthwash and kefir on the surface characteristics, specifically surface roughness and microhardness, of different restorative materials, as well as permanent and deciduous tooth enamels. Thirty disc-shaped specimens were prepared from composite resin (G-ænial Posterior (GP)), polyacid-modified composite resin (compomer) (Dyract-XP (DXP)), and resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Ionoseal (IS)). Additionally, thirty specimens of enamel were obtained from permanent teeth (PT) and thirty from deciduous teeth (DT) by embedding buccal and lingual sections, acquired through vertical sectioning of 15 permanent and 15 deciduous human tooth crowns in the mesiodistal orientation within acrylic resin blocks. The specimens were then categorized into three distinct groups and immersed for 14 days in one of the following solutions: distilled water, kefir or probiotic mouthwash. The mean surface roughness values of all specimens were assessed using an atomic force microscope, while the mean surface microhardness was measured using a Vickers hardness measuring instrument. The results revealed a statistically significant difference in mean surface roughness among the various restorative materials (p < 0.001). Among the restorative materials, the IS material exhibited notably higher mean surface roughness values than other restorative materials and tooth enamel, while no significant differences were observed between the PT and DT groups. Importantly, the main effect of the solutions under investigation was not statistically significant (p = 0.208). No significant difference was found between the surface roughness values of specimens subjected to the different solutions. When evaluating the effects of materials and solutions on microhardness, the main effects of material and solution variables and the influence of material-solution interactions were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Taken together, these results indicate that consistent use of kefir or probiotic mouthwashes may impact the surface properties of various restorative materials and tooth enamel.

Risk indicators for the severity of erosive wear in deciduous dentition of Mexican schoolchildren aged 5 to 7 years.

The objective of this work was to estimate the prevalence and severity of erosive tooth wear (ETW), and to identify risk indicators of deciduous dentition of a group of schoolchildren from public schools in Tlalnepantla de Baz, State of Mexico. A cross-sectional study was carried out in 352 schoolchildren from 5 to 7 years old. The severity of the ETW was evaluated using the Basic Erosive Wear Examination (BEWE). Risk indicators were evaluated through a survey which included food and beverage consumption, consumption habits, vitamin C consumption, gastroesophageal reflux, heartburn, belching, xerostomia, vomiting and teeth grinding. Multinomial logistic regression models were fitted. The prevalence of ETW was 99.7% (n = 351). Regarding severity, 46.6% were at a null/mild level, 27.3% moderate, and 26.1% severe. Males were more likely to present severe ETW (odds ratio (OR) = 2.23, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.27-3.93; p = 0.005). The risk indicators for the severity of ETW were the frequent consumption of citrus fruits (OR = 2.09, 95% CI, 1.12-3.89; p = 0.021), fruit juice (OR = 1.99, 95% CI, 1.06-3.75; p = 0.033), processed beverages (OR = 2.15, 95% CI, 1.23-3.78; p = 0.008) and hot sauce (OR = 1.82, 95% CI, 1.03-3.20; p = 0.036). The prevalence of ETW in the deciduous dentition was very high (99.7%) and ~1/3 for severe ETW. The dietary factors associated with severe ETW are part of the regular consumption of Mexican school-age children, which impact their oral health condition. It is important to establish intervention strategies from the infant stage, focused on both children and their caregivers.

Effects of different irrigation activation methods on root canal treatment of primary teeth.

There is currently a lack of research on the application of newly developed irrigation techniques in root canal treatment of primary teeth. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of various irrigation activation techniques on two key parameters: apical debris extrusion (ADE) and dentinal tubule penetration depth (DTPD) of the root canal filling material. A total of 96 primary mandibular second molars were randomly divided into 4 groups: Group 1-Conventional Needle Irrigation (CNI), Group 2-XP-Endo Finisher (XPF), Group 3-EndoActivator (EA), and Group 4-Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation (PUI). In all groups, the One Reci single-file system was used for root canal preparation. For ADE measurement, each group was rinsed with distilled water. For DTPD assessment, sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) was applied. ADE quantification was performed by collecting debris in pre-weighed Eppendorf tubes. A combination of fluorescent dye and root canal filling material (DiaPex Plus) was used for root canal filling. In order to examine DTPD, horizontal cross-sections of the coronal and apical regions of the teeth were taken with a thickness of 1 mm. The maximum and mean DTPD was examined by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis, One-way ANOVA, and Mann-Whitney U tests (p = 0.05). As a result, PUI had the highest mean ADE and CNI had the lowest mean ADE, while CNI had the highest mean DTPD in both the coronal and apical regions, whereas PUI had the lowest mean DTPD in the coronal region, and EA had the lowest mean DTPD in the apical region. There were no statistically significant differences in DTPD and ADE among the four groups. Comparing intragroup maximum DTPD across all groups, it was significantly higher in the coronal region than in the apical region (p < 0.05). ADE and DTPD of root canal filling materials in primary teeth did not differ significantly among CNI, XPF, EA and PUI irrigation activation techniques.

Deciduous pulp tissue implantation into the root canal of mandibular incisor resulted in pulp revascularization: a case report with a 5-year follow-up.

To explore a new method to implant deciduous tooth pulp into the canal of young permanent teeth with necrotic pulps and apical periodontitis for the regenerative endodontic treatment of tooth no: 41 in a 7-year-old male. Briefly, 1.5% Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) irrigation and calcium hydroxide-iodoform paste were used as root canal disinfectant at the first visit. After 2 weeks, the intracanal medication was removed, and the root canal was slowly rinsed with 17% Ethylene Diamine Tetraacetic Acid (EDTA), followed by flushing with 20 mL saline and then drying with paper points. Tooth no: 72 was extracted, and its pulp was extracted and subsequently implanted into the disinfected root canal along with induced apical bleeding. Calcium hydroxide iodoform paste was gently placed over the bleeding clot, and after forming a mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) coronal barrier, the accessed cavities were restored using Z350 resin composite. The root developments were evaluated via radiographic imaging at 6 months, 1 year and 5 years after treatment. Imaging and clinical analysis showed closure of the apical foramen, thickening of the root canal wall, and satisfactory root length growth. Autologous transplantation might be useful to regenerate dental pulp in necrotic young permanent teeth.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells from the Deciduous Tooth Pulp Lose their Ability to Suppress the Differentiation of Dendritic Cells during Long-Term Culturing.

A culture of cells expressing markers of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) (CD73, CD90, CD44, CD29, and CD49b), but not hematopoietic cell markers, and capable of multilineage differentiation was isolated from the deciduous tooth pulp. Co-culturing with immature dendritic cells in the presence of LPS did not reveal an ability of the MSC to suppress the maturation of dendritic cells. On the contrary, co-culturing of MSC with monocytes in the presence of granulocyte-macrophage CSF and IL-4 led to complete suppression of monocyte differentiation into dendritic cells. However, long-term culturing of MSC from dental pulp showed that by the passage 11, they almost completely lose their suppressor ability. These results indicate that the immunological properties of MSC can change during culturing without changing their phenotypic markers. This should be taken into account when creating biomedical cell products.

Comparison of three-dimensional printed resin crowns and preformed stainless steel crowns for primary molar restorations: a randomized controlled trial.

The importance of aesthetics in children has increased over time. Therefore, this multicenter randomized clinical trial aimed to analyze and compare three-dimensional (3D)-printed resin crowns (RCs) as a potential alternative to stainless-steel crowns (SSCs) for restoring primary molars with extensive carious lesions. According to the null hypothesis, no statistically significant difference was observed in restoration failure between RC and SSC groups. A total of 56 primary molars after pulp treatment at two dental hospitals were included. After pulp treatment, the teeth were randomly divided into two groups: SSCs (n = 28) and RCs (n = 28). At 1 week and 3, 6 and 12 months, the Quigley-Hein plaque index (QHI), gingival index (GI), occlusal wear, and survival rate were assessed by examination, radiography and alginate impressions. No significant difference in QHI was observed between the two groups. However, the GI at 12 months and occlusal wear in the RC group were significantly higher than those in the SSC group (p < 0.05). The survival rates were 100% in the SSC group and 82.1% in the RC group (p = 0.047). Cracks and discoloration were also observed in the RCs. Within the limitations of this study, 3D-printed RCs are aesthetically superior to SSCs and clinically easy to repair. However, if clinical effectiveness and safety are improved, RCs could potentially become a viable aesthetic alternative in the future.

Evaluation of Papacarie®, Carie-Care™, BRIX3000™ and conventional hand instrumentation for caries removal in primary teeth: a randomized control study.

In the current odontological era, carious lesions are removed while tooth tissue is preserved. Most of these ideals are met by chemomechanical caries removal (CMCR) methods, which are easy and comfortable to use, differentiate and eliminate infected tissues, minimize pressure, vibration and heat, and are cost-effective. This study examines the efficacy of commercially available CMCR agents, namely Papacarie®, Carie-Care™ and BRIX3000™, and a conventional hand instrumentation method for caries removal in deciduous molars in terms of time consumption, ease of application, and pain perception. For this randomized clinical trial, 120 children aged 4 to 9 years were selected and randomly allocated to four groups of 30 patients each. Time consumption, ease of application, and pain perception were evaluated at three intervals: pre-, during- and post-caries removal, using Wong-Baker FACES (WBF) Pain Rating Scale and the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) scale. The results showed that among the compared materials and conventional hand instrumentation technique, Carie-Care™ was statistically found to be the least time-consuming with a p-value of 0.019, have the least pain perception with a p-value of 0.02, and was clinically the best with respect to manipulation and handling. While all three CMCR agents aid in the removal of carious tissue, Carie-Care™ was the most effective based on time consumption, pain perception and simplicity of administration.

Paedodontic preformed crowns in primary teeth and relative degree of dental wear.

AIM: Prosthetic rehabilitation of deciduous teeth in paediatric age using pre-formed crowns has been considered one of the best methods of dental restoration since their introduction. Their main advantages are related to durability, longevity and a low rate of recurrent cavities. Since stainless steel crowns do not coincide with aesthetic needs of parents and patients, preformed paedodontic crowns made of zirconia and nano-hybrid composite was introduced. The aim of the study is to evaluate the degree of wear on the enamel and on themselves of the different paedodontic crowns. MATERIALS: Nine bovine teeth and nine paedodontic crowns for deciduous molars were selected for the study, three of which in zirconia, three in nano-hybrid composite and three in stainless steel. Wear test was carried out on the Rtech™ Instruments tribometer applying a force of 50 N. After that, both the bovine teeth and the paedodontic crowns were observed using a stereo microscope (Zeiss Stemi C-500) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM, Cambridge Stereoscan 440). The areas of wear were calculated with a software [ImageJ, version 1x, Wayne Rasband, Maryland, USA]. CONCLUSION: Pre-formed paediatric crowns in zirconia, nano-hybrid composite and stainless steel are a valid aid for the restoration of deciduous teeth and do not compromise the physiological wear characteristic of the phases of the dental exchange. The stainless steel crown is preferable for the restorations in the posterior sectors as its behaviour is the most similar to that of a natural tooth. Zirconia and nano-hybrid composite crowns showed an inversely proportional behaviour between their wear volume and that of the opposing tooth.

Evaluation of Human Platelet Lysate as an Alternative to Fetal Bovine Serum for Potential Clinical Applications of Stem Cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth.

In recent years, there has been a surge in demand for and research focus on cell therapy, driven by the tissue-regenerative and disease-treating potentials of stem cells. Among the candidates, dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) or human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) have garnered significant attention due to their easy accessibility (non-invasive), multi-lineage differentiation capability (especially neurogenesis), and low immunogenicity. Utilizing these stem cells for clinical purposes requires careful culture techniques such as excluding animal-derived supplements. Human platelet lysate (hPL) has emerged as a safer alternative to fetal bovine serum (FBS) for cell culture. In our study, we assessed the impact of hPL as a growth factor supplement for culture medium, also conducting a characterization of SHED cultured in hPL-supplemented medium (hPL-SHED). The results showed that hPL has effects in enhancing cell proliferation and migration and increasing cell survivability in oxidative stress conditions induced by H2O2. The morphology of hPL-SHED exhibited reduced size and elongation, with a differentiation capacity comparable to or even exceeding that of SHED cultured in a medium supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS-SHED). Moreover, no evidence of chromosome abnormalities or tumor formation was detected. In conclusion, hPL-SHED emerges as a promising candidate for cell therapy, exhibiting considerable potential for clinical investigation.

Assessment of the efficiency of dental excavation methods using laser speckle imaging.

This paper introduces a novel application of the laser speckle technique in dentistry, focusing on assessing the efficiency of dental excavation methods used to remove decayed tooth structure. The aim is to evaluate the efficiency of two chemo-mechanical agents and the high-speed drill using the laser speckle technique, which offers objective, non-invasive, and real-time evaluation capabilities. Extracted human primary molars with active occlusal carious lesions were sectioned into three parts, with each part allocated to one of three groups: Group 1 (Brix3000®), Group 2 (Papacarie DUO®), and Group 3 (High-speed drill mechanical caries removal). Caries removal was performed using the designated agent or method for each group. After caries excavation, speckle imaging using a 632.8 nm laser was conducted. Additionally, SEM was used to acquire micro-photographs of the surface morphology of the treated samples. The findings reveal insights into the comparative efficiency of the three dental excavation agents and methods using the laser speckle technique. The speckle parameters extracted from speckle patterns generated by treated teeth provide valuable information for evaluating the performance of the excavation methods. The scanning electron microscopy images also offer detailed visual evidence to support the analysis. This paper demonstrates the potential of the laser speckle technique for assessing the efficiency of dental excavation methods. The objective, non-invasive, and real-time evaluation provided offers advantages over subjective visual assessment and manual measurements.

Interventions with pregnant women, new mothers and other primary caregivers for preventing early childhood caries.

BACKGROUND: Dental caries, a common chronic disease of childhood, is associated with adverse health and economic consequences for infants and their families. Socioeconomically disadvantaged children have a higher risk of early childhood caries (ECC). This review updates one published in 2019. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of interventions undertaken with pregnant women, new mothers or other primary caregivers of infants in the first year of life, for preventing ECC (from birth to six years). SEARCH METHODS: We searched Cochrane Oral Health's Trials Register, Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL EBSCO, the US National Institutes of Health Ongoing Trials Register (clinicaltrials.gov) and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (apps.who.int/trialsearch). The latest searches were run on 3 January, 2023. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing interventions with pregnant women, or new mothers and other primary caregivers of infants in the first year of life, against standard care, placebo or another intervention, reporting on a primary outcome: caries presence in primary teeth, dmfs (decayed, missing, filled primary surfaces index), or dmft (decayed, missing, filled teeth index), in children up to six years of age. Intervention types include clinical, oral health promotion/education (hygiene education, breastfeeding and other dietary advice) and policy or service. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently assessed study eligibility, extracted data, assessed risk of bias, and assessed certainty of evidence (GRADE). MAIN RESULTS: We included 23 RCTs (5 cluster-randomised), involving 25,953 caregivers (mainly mothers) and their children. Fifteen trials assessed oral health education/promotion interventions against standard care. Six trials assessed a clinical intervention for mother dentition, against placebo, or a different type of clinical intervention. Two trials assessed oral health/education promotion plus clinical intervention (for mother's dentition) against standard care. At most, five trials (maximum of 1326 children and 130 mothers) contributed data to any comparison. Enamel-only caries were included in the diagnosis of caries in some studies. For many trials, the risk of bias was unclear due to lack of methodological details reported. In thirteen trials, participants were socioeconomically disadvantaged. No trial indicated receiving funding that was likely to have influenced their results. Oral health education/promotion interventions Child diet and feeding practice advice versus standard care: We observed a probable 15 per cent reduced risk of caries presence in primary teeth with the intervention (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.75 to 0.97; 3 trials; 782 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), and there may be a slightly lower mean dmfs (MD -0.29, 95% CI -0.58 to 0; 2 trials; 757 participants; low-certainty evidence); however, the evidence is very uncertain regarding the difference between groups in mean dmft (MD -0.90, 95% CI -1.85 to 0.05; 1 trial; 340 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Breastfeeding promotion and support versus standard care: We observed little or no difference between groups in the risk of caries presence in primary teeth (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.03; 2 trials; 1148 participants; low-certainty evidence) and in mean dmft (MD -0.12, 95% CI -0.59 to 0.36; 2 trials; 652 participants; low-certainty evidence). dmfs was not reported. Child diet advice compared with standard care: We are very uncertain about the effect on the risk of caries presence in primary teeth (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.34 to 3.37; 1 trial; 148 participants; very low-certainty evidence). dmfs and dmft were not reported. Oral hygiene, child diet and feeding practice advice versus standard care: The evidence is very uncertain about the effect on the risk of caries presence in primary teeth (RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.50 to 1.07; 5 trials; 1326 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and there maybe little to no difference in mean dmfs (MD -0.87, 95% CI -2.18 to 0.43; 2 trials; 657 participants; low-certainty evidence) and mean dmft (MD -0.30, 95% CI -0.96 to 0.36; 1 trial; 187 participants; low-certainty evidence). High-dose versus low-dose vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy: We are very uncertain about the effect on risk of caries presence in primary teeth (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.41; 1 trial; 496 participants; very low-certainty evidence). dmfs and dmft were not reported. Clinical interventions (for mother dentition) Chlorhexidine (CHX, a commonly prescribed antiseptic agent) or iodine-NaF application and prophylaxis versus placebo: We are very uncertain regarding the difference in risk of caries presence in primary teeth between antimicrobial and placebo treatment for mother dentition (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.19; 3 trials; 479 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No trial reported dmfs or dmft. Xylitol compared with CHX antimicrobial treatment: We are very uncertain about the effect on caries presence in primary teeth (RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.27 to 1.39; 1 trial, 96 participants; very low-certainty evidence), but we observed there may be a lower mean dmft with xylitol (MD -2.39; 95% CI -4.10 to -0.68; 1 trial, 113 participants; low-certainty evidence). No trial reported dmfs. Oral health education/promotion plus clinical interventions (for mother dentition) Diet and feeding practice advice for infants and young children plus basic dental care for mothers compared with standard care: We are very uncertain about the effect on risk of caries presence in primary teeth (RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.05 to 3.95; 2 trials, 324 participants; very low-certainty evidence) or on mean dmft (1 study, not estimable). No trial reported dmfs. No trials evaluated policy or health service interventions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There is moderate-certainty evidence that providing advice on diet and feeding to pregnant women, mothers or other caregivers with children up to the age of one year probably leads to a slightly reduced risk of early childhood caries (ECC). The remaining evidence is low to very-low certainty and is insufficient for determining which, if any, other intervention types and features may be effective for preventing ECC, and in which settings. Large, high-quality RCTs of oral health education/promotion, clinical, and policy and service access interventions, are warranted to determine the effects and relative effects of different interventions and inform practice. We have identified 13 ongoing studies. Future studies should consider if and how effects are modified by intervention features and participant characteristics (including socioeconomic status).