A Comparison of Teeth Measurements on Plaster and Digital Models.

(1) Background: Modern imaging methods and constantly developing technologies extend the range of diagnostic tools in medicine and in orthodontics. Thanks to them, scientists and doctors can use devices designed to diagnose 3D structures of the human body. The aim of the study was to assess the usefulness of digital orthodontic models as a diagnostic tool in the work of an orthodontist through a comparative analysis of the value of orthodontic measurements made on traditional plaster models and virtual models. (2) Methods: A total of 80 sets of models were made, including 40 sets of plaster models and 40 sets of digital models. A total of 48 diagnostic parameters were developed. They concerned dental parameters. (3) Results: Comparative analysis of crown height values on plaster and digital models showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in 26 out of 48 dental parameters. (4) Conclusions: The differences between the measurements made with the software on the digital models and the measurements made with the traditional method of measurement using the digital caliper on the plaster models were small and clinically acceptable.

The mechanical strength of orthodontic elastomeric memory chains and plastic chains: An in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: The loss of physical properties of orthodontic chains has been a topic of discussion among scientists and clinicians, motivating efforts to improve elastic materials and minimize the decrease of force. Orthodontic companies have introduced memory elastomers, which, according to the manufacturers, have improved mechanical properties. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of stretching elastomeric chains submerged in 37°C artificial saliva. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study assessed 2 types of chains. The first phase of the study evaluated 1) the tensile strength of the chains; and 2) elongation at the time of tearing in an environment outside of the oral cavity (without exposition). The second phase of the study evaluated 1) permanent deformation after stretching; 2) elongation at the time of tearing; and 3) the tensile strength of the chain in conditions similar to those present in the oral cavity. RESULTS: In the experiments using artificial saliva, pronounced force decay was observed in the plastic chain, in which, after just 7 days, force decreased almost by half compared to the initial value, with a continuous downward trend. The memory chain, however, showed increased elasticity, and after the first week of exposition the force decay at the time of tearing was around 20% of the initial value. Force decay at the time of tearing remained at a steady level between 14.4 and 25.4% throughout the whole period of exposition. In the plastic chain this value oscillated between 50.3 and 55.9%. In the experiments assessing permanent deformation of the chains performed after each week of exposition, the specimens prepared from the memory chain stretched from 8 cm to approximately 9.5 cm after exposition, while the specimens prepared from the plastic chain stretched to approximately 13 cm. CONCLUSIONS: Memory chains are more effective in orthodontic treatment due to diminished loss of mechanical and elastic capabilities, when compared to plastic chains.

[Dental examination integral part of preventive testing head and neck cancers].

In recent years, in Poland and in Europe, we have seen a steady increase in the incidence of malignant tumors of the head and neck. On the basis of national cancer registries, the increase in new cases in the last ten years is over 15% and that worries epidemiologists and the medical community. Taken in Europe prevention programs aimed at reducing new cases. In Grater Poland from 2012 has initiated an innovative program for Early Detection of Cancer, Department of Head and Neck Surgery Medical University in Poznan and the Department of Health Marshal's Office in Poznan. The aim of the study was to evaluate dental and oral hygiene habits analysis of patients reporting to the Programme for Early Detection of Head and Neck Cancer. The study conducted involved 678 patients reporting to the Department of Head and Neck Surgery in Grater Poland Cancer Center under the prevention of cancers of the head and neck. All patients underwent ENT assessment and standard dental examination assessing condition of teeth and oral mucosa. All patients were asked to fill out prepared questionnaire, which included questions concerning socio-economic conditions of the patient, hygiene habits and risk factors for oral cancer. Most of the patients participating in the study, 441 people (65.9%) smoke or smoked cigarettes. Smoking habit among female dominated. Within smokers responders declared, at the same time,consumption of alcohol at least three times a week; 192 people (81.1%). Almost half (49.8%) of all respondents reported consuming alcohol occasionally. Regular practice of oral sex with frequent change of partner, belonging to the high risk of head and neck cancer, were found in 21.9% of patients. During the assessment of oral hygiene was observed 155 patients (23.4%) correctly cleansing the teeth and oral cavity, while more than half (62.4%) did not abide rules of daily oral hygiene. The use of additional tools to correct hygienization (dental floss, interdental brushes, rinses the mouth) was recorded in 51.7% of patients. As a result, 85% of the patients of the head and neck cancer prevention program was found bad condition of the oral cavity, and dental procedures in 30% of patients were applied. Patients diagnosed with invasive cancer was in 19 cases. Results of this study indicate that, the dentist should be an integral part of interdisciplinary team treating patients with head and neck cancer, and regular dental care plays a key role in the early diagnosis of patients with head and neck cancer.

[The role of the multidisciplinary team in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with laryngeal and hypopharynx cancer]. / Rola zespolu interdyscyplinarnego w diagnostyce i leczeniu chorych z nowotworami krtani i gardla dolnego.

INTRODUCTION: In Poland the annual incidence of cancer of the larynx is about 3,000 cases which accounts 2% of all malignant tumors. Results of treatment of head and neck cancers are still unsatisfactory (five-year survival - 50%). In order to improve the outcome in Greater Poland Cancer Centre in 2010 a multidisciplinary team was created which is involved in the individual qualification of each patient to the best form of therapy. AIM: The aim of the publication is to evaluate the work of the multidisciplinary team in the diagnostic, therapeutic, and post-operative follow-up of patients with larynx and hypopharynx cancer treated in Greater Poland Cancer Centre in 2007-2012. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The analysis included 558 patients (84% men, 16% women) aged 38-82 years who were treated in the Department of Head and Neck Surgery Greater Poland Cancer Centre in the years 2007 to 2012 because of cancer of larynx and hypopharynx. Patients were divided into two groups - the first consisted of patients qualified without the cooperation of the multidisciplinary team - 312 patients (56%), the second - patients qualified with help of the multidisciplinary team - 246 patients (44%). In the two groups of patients evaluated were: mean time required for the implementation of additional tests and specialist consultations before treatment, the average time from the appearance of the patient to the start of treatment, the distribution of qualifications to specific forms of therapy. RESULTS: Evaluating type of treatment administered after the establishment of the team noticed were an increase by 11% the number of patients treated with surgery. There has been a reduction in the time between the appearance of the patient at the clinic and the start of treatment and reduce the waiting time for diagnostic imaging and specialist consultations. It was also an increase in the number of regular check-ups and a decrease in the number of patients who stopped visits. CONCLUSION: The work of the multidisciplinary team improves the effectiveness of treatment by optimizing the process of preparation and organization, and finally by contributing knowledge and experience in decision-making. His creation results in benefits for the patient, his family and the medical staff. Qualification for the most optimal treatment within the multidisciplinary team should be used in all patients with cancer of the head and neck.