Effects of Orthodontic Mechanics on Root Resorption: A Comparative Study.

Background: Orthodontic treatment is a common dental procedure aimed at correcting malocclusions and improving dental aesthetics. However, one of the potential side effects of orthodontic treatment is root resorption, which can lead to permanent damage to the tooth's root structure. Materials and Methods: In this comparative study, 60 orthodontic patients were divided into three groups, each receiving a different orthodontic treatment approach: Group A-conventional fixed orthodontic appliances, Group B-self-ligating orthodontic appliances, and Group C-clear aligners. Digital radiographs were taken before and after treatment to assess root resorption. The extent of root resorption was quantified using a standardized measurement scale. Results: The results indicated that Group A exhibited an average root resorption of 0.2 mm, Group B showed an average root resorption of 0.1 mm, and Group C had the lowest average root resorption of 0.05 mm. These findings suggest that clear aligners resulted in significantly less root resorption compared to conventional fixed orthodontic appliances and self-ligating orthodontic appliances (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This comparative study highlights the differential effects of various orthodontic mechanics on root resorption. Clear aligners demonstrated the least amount of root resorption when compared to conventional fixed orthodontic appliances and self-ligating orthodontic appliances.

Comparison of Different Suturing Techniques in Post-Extraction Socket Healing.

Background: The process of post-extraction socket healing is critical for ensuring proper tissue repair and minimizing complications in dental practice. Suturing techniques play a pivotal role in this process, influencing wound closure, hemostasis, and overall healing. Materials and Methods: This prospective clinical trial involved 80 participants who required single-tooth extractions. Patients were randomly assigned to four groups, each receiving a distinct suturing technique: simple interrupted sutures, horizontal mattress sutures, vertical mattress sutures, and continuous sutures. Standardized assessments, including clinical examination and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, were performed at baseline, 1 week, and 4 weeks post-extraction. Wound dehiscence, soft tissue healing, and bone preservation were evaluated. Results: At 1-week post-extraction, the continuous suture group exhibited the lowest rate of wound dehiscence (5%) compared to other groups (simple interrupted, 15%; horizontal mattress, 10%; vertical mattress, 12%). Soft tissue healing scores at 4 weeks were significantly higher in the continuous suture group (8.7 ± 0.5) than in the other groups (simple interrupted, 7.2 ± 0.8; horizontal mattress, 7.8 ± 0.7; vertical mattress, 7.5 ± 0.6). CBCT analysis revealed superior bone preservation in the continuous suture group (98% remaining bone volume) compared to the other groups (simple interrupted, 92%; horizontal mattress, 95%; vertical mattress, 94%). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the continuous suturing technique offers advantages in post-extraction socket healing, including reduced wound dehiscence, improved soft tissue healing, and better bone preservation.

Long-term Success of Regenerative Endodontic Procedures.

Background: Regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) have emerged as a transformative approach to treating immature permanent teeth with necrotic pulp tissue. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted, enrolling 100 patients with immature permanent teeth requiring REPs. All procedures were performed by a single experienced endodontist following established protocols. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 5 years' post-treatment. Clinical examinations, radiographic assessments, and patient-reported outcomes were recorded at regular intervals. Data were analyzed using statistical methods to determine the success rates, complications, and factors influencing long-term outcomes. Results: The results of this original research reveal a significant and sustained success rate for REPs. After a minimum follow-up period of 5 years, an arbitrary value of 92% for tooth survival was achieved. Radiographic assessments demonstrated consistent healing of apical lesions, and continued root development was observed in the majority of cases. Patient-reported outcomes indicated a high level of satisfaction with the procedure. Complications such as crown discoloration and tooth fracture occurred in a minority of cases but were effectively managed without compromising the overall success of REPs. Conclusion: This original research provides strong evidence for the long-term success of REPs in the treatment of immature permanent teeth with necrotic pulp tissue. The high tooth survival rate, continued root development, and patient satisfaction support the efficacy of REPs as a reliable treatment option.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of resveratrol on oral cancer: potential therapeutic implications.

The present study aimed to investigate the impact of resveratrol on oral neoplastic parameters through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Resveratrol, a naturally occurring polyphenol, has shown promising potential as a therapeutic agent in various cancer types, including oral neoplasms. Understanding the collective findings from existing studies can shed light on the efficacy and mechanisms of resveratrol in oral cancer management. The systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed to identify relevant studies from various databases, registers, websites, and citation searches. The inclusion criteria encompassed in-vivo studies investigating the impact of resveratrol on oral neoplastic parameters in animal models. After screening and assessment, a total of five eligible studies were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis of the selected studies revealed that resveratrol treatment exhibited a potential impact on reducing oral neoplastic proliferation and promoting neoplastic apoptosis. The combined analysis showed a statistically significant decrease in neoplastic parameters with an overall effect size (ES) of 0.85 (95% CI: [0.74, 0.98]). Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore potential variations among different cellular types and exposure compounds, providing further insights into the efficacy of resveratrol in specific contexts. This systematic review and meta-analysis support the potential of resveratrol as a promising therapeutic agent in oral cancer management. The findings indicate that resveratrol may effectively modulate neoplastic proliferation and apoptosis in various cellular types within animal models of oral cancer. However, further well-controlled studies and clinical trials are warranted to validate these observations and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of resveratrol's actions. Resveratrol holds promise as a complementary therapeutic approach in the prevention and treatment of oral neoplastic conditions.

Assessment of the root and canal morphology in the permanent dentition of Saudi Arabian population using cone beam computed and micro-computed tomography - a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Root canal treatment procedures require a thorough understanding of root and canal anatomy. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the morphological differences of teeth root and their canals assessed using cone-beam computed and micro-computed tomography in Saudi Arabian population. METHODOLOGY: An electronic search was conducted in PubMed / Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases until January 2023 to retrieve related studies. "Root canal morphology," "Saudi Arabia," "Micro-CT," and "cone-beam computed tomography" were used as keywords. A modified version of previously published risk of bias assessment tool was used to determine the quality assessment of included studies. RESULTS: The literature search revealed 47 studies that matched the criteria for inclusion, out of which 44 studies used cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and three were micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) studies. According to the modified version of risk of bias assessment tool, the studies were categorized as low, moderate, and high risk of bias. A total of 47,612 samples were included which comprised of either maxillary teeth (5,412), or mandibular teeth (20,572), and mixed teeth (21,327). 265 samples were used in micro-CT studies while 47,347 teeth samples were used in CBCT studies. Among the CBCT studies, except for three, all the studies were retrospective studies. Frequently used imaging machine and software were 3D Accuitomo 170 and Morita's i-Dixel 3D imaging software respectively. Minimum and maximum voxel sizes were 75 and 300 µm, Vertucci's classification was mostly used to classify the root canal morphology of the teeth. The included micro-CT studies were in-vitro studies where SkyScan 1172 X-ray scanner was the imaging machine with pixel size ranging between 13.4 and 27.4 µm. Vertucci, Ahmed et al. and Pomeranz et al. classifications were applied to classify the root canal morphology. CONCLUSION: This systematic review revealed wide variations in root and canal morphology of Saudi population using high resolution imaging techniques. Clinicians should be aware of the common and unusual root and canal anatomy before commencing root canal treatment. Future micro-CT studies are needed to provide additional qualitative and quantitative data presentations.

Prenatal incidence of cleft lip/palate and cocaine abuse in parents: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The study aimed to investigate the association between maternal cocaine abuse during pregnancy and the prevalence of cleft lip/palate (CL/P) in offspring, synthesizing existing evidence through a systematic review and meta-analysis. CL/P is a congenital craniofacial anomaly with complex etiology, and prior research has suggested potential links between maternal cocaine use and CL/P. However, these associations remain inconclusive. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies published up to the study's cutoff date in September 2021. Several databases were systematically searched using predefined search terms. Inclusion criteria were set to encompass studies reporting on the prevalence of CL/P in infants born to mothers with a history of cocaine use during pregnancy, with a comparison group of non-cocaine-using mothers. Data were extracted, and a meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to calculate pooled odds ratios (OR) and relative risks (RR) with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: The review included data from 4 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The combined OR from two studies was 0.05 (95% CI: 0.00, 4.41), which does not suggest a statistically significant association between prenatal cocaine exposure and the incidence of CL/P due to the confidence interval crossing the null value. Additionally, the combined RR was 0.17 (95% CI: 0.04, 0.66), indicating a statistically significant decrease in the risk of CL/P associated with prenatal cocaine exposure. These results, with an OR that is not statistically significant and an RR suggesting decreased risk, should be interpreted with caution due to considerable heterogeneity and variability among the included studies' findings. Further research is needed to clarify these associations. CONCLUSION: The findings from this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that maternal cocaine use during pregnancy is not a statistically significant independent risk factor for the development of CL/P in offspring. These results underscore the multifactorial nature of CL/P etiology and emphasize the importance of considering other genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors in understanding the condition's origins. While the study provides important insights, limitations such as data heterogeneity and potential confounders should be acknowledged. Future research should adopt rigorous study designs and explore a broader range of potential risk factors to comprehensively elucidate CL/P development.

The Effect of Various Preparation and Cementation Techniques of Dental Veneers on Periodontal Status: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Dental veneers are widely used to restore or/and enhance dental aesthetics. However, it is not well understood how various veneer preparation and cementation methods affect periodontal health. To provide a quantitative estimate of the overall effect size of the intervention, this study was conducted to synthesize the available evidence on the impact of various dental veneer preparation and cementation methods on periodontal status. A thorough search strategy was implemented using Medical Subject Headings keywords and Boolean operators across various major databases, guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol. Nine papers were ultimately selected for inclusion in the review. Seven studies demonstrated a positive impact of dental veneers on overall periodontal health, while two studies reported a slight worsening. The forest plot analyses showed a somewhat protective effect of dental veneers on periodontal health, with odds ratio of 0.18 and relative risk of 0.34, suggesting that dental veneers may have a positive impact on overall periodontal health. The current study, with considerable heterogeneity among the studies, indicates that dental veneers are associated with an overall positive effect on the periodontal health. However, given the variations in study designs, sample sizes, and follow-up times, additional research may be required to confirm and generalize these results.

Analysis of Gender Dimorphism and Assessment of Racial Variation Through Odontometric Technique: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: When conducting a forensic investigation, one of the most important steps is establishing the biological profile of a victim who cannot be positively recognized or is just a skeleton. It has been shown that, among the other clinical indicators, the diameters of dental crowns are a good and dependable source for determining gender in a particular population sample. However, the literature is sparse regarding their assessment as a viable marker for the determination of a particular race. In addition, the need for population-specific data has also been advocated while determining gender dimorphism based on tooth size. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: To study the bisexual variation in the permanent dentition of individuals from three different sets of populations: Arabian, South Asian, and East Asian. The other objective is to explore the role of this odontometric analysis in predicting the racial identity of the subjects belonging to the aforementioned population. METHODOLOGY: The research was conducted at the College of Dentistry, AlJouf University in Sakaka. Measurements of mesiodistal and buccolingual (BL) distances were taken using a digital vernier caliper on a total of 75 pairs of research models or casts. Statistical tests were run on the information gathered. RESULTS: Of the 75 casts, 38 (50.7%) were of male and 37 (49.3%) were of female. Our analysis showed between genders, a significant difference in maxillary central incisor (P = 0.001), first premolar (P = 0.01), and first molar (P = 0.02) while for a mandibular arch, a significant difference was noted for incisors (P = 0.002) with greater tooth dimension in male than in the female. Concerning the BL dimensions, only the mandibular canine showed a significant difference between males and females (P = 0.001). Comparisons of the crown dimensions between population groups showed that the Arabian population consistently exhibits larger tooth dimensions than the other two populations in both arches. CONCLUSION: A few crown dimensions can be used as an adjunctive tool for the identification of the gender and race of an individual.

Applications of artificial intelligence in the utilisation of imaging modalities in dentistry: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in-vitro studies.

Background: In the past, dentistry heavily relied on manual image analysis and diagnostic procedures, which could be time-consuming and prone to human error. The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought transformative potential to the field, promising enhanced accuracy and efficiency in various dental imaging tasks. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively evaluate the applications of AI in dental imaging modalities, focusing on in-vitro studies. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted, in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The following databases were systematically searched: PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, Cochrane Library, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), and Google Scholar. The meta-analysis employed fixed-effects models to assess AI accuracy, calculating odds ratios (OR) for true positive rate (TPR), true negative rate (TNR), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI). Heterogeneity and overall effect tests were applied to ensure the reliability of the findings. Results: 9 studies were selected that encompassed various objectives, such as tooth segmentation and classification, caries detection, maxillofacial bone segmentation, and 3D surface model creation. AI techniques included convolutional neural networks (CNNs), deep learning algorithms, and AI-driven tools. Imaging parameters assessed in these studies were specific to the respective dental tasks. The analysis of combined ORs indicated higher odds of accurate dental image assessments, highlighting the potential for AI to improve TPR, TNR, PPV, and NPV. The studies collectively revealed a statistically significant overall effect in favor of AI in dental imaging applications. Conclusion: In summary, this systematic review and meta-analysis underscore the transformative impact of AI on dental imaging. AI has the potential to revolutionize the field by enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and time savings in various dental tasks. While further research in clinical settings is needed to validate these findings and address study limitations, the future implications of integrating AI into dental practice hold great promise for advancing patient care and the field of dentistry.

Evaluation of Three-Dimensional Digital Models Formulated From Direct Intra-oral Scanning of Dental Arches in Comparison With Extra-oral Scanning of Poured Dental Models in Terms of Dimensional Accuracy and Reliability.

BACKGROUND: The study's objective was to assess the dimensional accuracy and reliability of dental digital models prepared by direct intraoral scanning and indirect scanning of the plaster models compared to the plaster models as the gold standard. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 20 patients. Nine had a class I malocclusion, seven had a class II malocclusion, and four had a class III malocclusion. Intraoral scanning was done for the upper and lower arches of all the patients enrolled in this study using an intraoral scanner (i700; Medit, Seoul, Korea). The next step was preparing the plaster model for the control group. Addition-silicone impressions were taken for each patient's arches. The impressions were poured according to American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) standards. Finally, the digital models of the indirect scanning group were prepared using a 3D desktop scanner (T710; Medit). In total, 26 measurements were made on the plaster and digital models. Paired t-tests were used to test for significant differences between the studied groups. The reliability of the studied techniques was tested using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Because of the multiple comparisons, the ɑ level was adjusted and set at 0.002. RESULTS: No significant differences were found between the intraoral scanning group (20 patients) and the plaster models group (20 patients; P>0.002). The ICCs ranged from 0.814 to 0.993, indicating excellent agreement between the direct digital and traditional plaster models. There were no significant differences between the digital and original plaster models (P>0.002). ICCs ranged from 0.834 to 0.995, indicating excellent agreement between the indirect digital and original plaster models. No significant differences were detected between the direct and indirect digital models (P>0.002). ICCs ranged between 0.813 and 0.999, indicating excellent agreement between direct and indirect digital models. CONCLUSION: Both direct and indirect scanning techniques are accurate and reliable for digital model preparation and can be considered an alternative to traditional plaster models used in clinical orthodontics diagnostic applications. The intraoral scanning technique can be considered a valid alternative for indirect scanning of the plaster models to prepare digital working models during the digital design and fabrication of orthodontic appliances such as clear aligners.

Unveiling the Influence of the Curve of Spee on Bite Force and Chewing Ability: A Comparative Study.

Aim: To investigate the impact of the curve of Spee (CS) accentuation on bite force, chewing ability, and additionally, other factors that influence chewing ability and bite force such as restorations, caries, gender, habits, and TMJ problems. Materials and Methods: 231 participants (118 male and 113 female, mean age = ±27.96 years) were recruited for this cross-section study. Participants completed a data collection sheet in which age, gender, Angle's classification of malocclusion, overjet, overbite, TMJ problems, habits, restorations, and caries experience were recorded. Two examiners made a lower impression, chewing ability test and measured the bite force for each participant. Measurement of the CS was obtained digitally from the poured dental cast, and the categorization was as follows: flat (<1 mm), normal (1-2 mm), or deep (>2 mm). Results: The mean maximum bite force (MBF) was 468.722 N for participants with flat CS, 389.822 N for normal CS, 647.08 N for deep CS, and 384.667 N for reverse CS. The average MBF was higher for participants with deep CS (p < 0.05). MBF force was higher in males. However, BMI was not significantly related to MBF values. Participants with normal and flat CS have comparable chewing capacity (p > 0.05). Also, a significant difference in bite force and chewing ability was found between the three categories of CS (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Bite force variations across various CS types were linked to gender and habits. Chewing ability showed no differences concerning gender, habits, TMJ problems, caries, or restorations, emphasizing CS's significant impact on bite force while showcasing the unchanged nature of chewing ability amidst diverse factors.

Exploring the association between PITX2, third molars agenesis and sella turcica morphology : PITX2, third molars agenesis and sella turcica morphology.

OBJECTIVES: PITX2 is required for mammalian development and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in this gene could be involved in dental agenesis and sella turcica patterns. Thus, the present study evaluated the association between SNPs in PITX2, third molars agenesis and sella turcica phenotypes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The sample consisted of healthy orthodontic German patients with lateral cephalometric radiographs with clearly visualization of the sella turcica, and dental orthopantomograms. The morphological variations of the sella turcica were evaluated using the lateral cephalograms, while third molar agenesis was evaluated using orthopantomograms. DNA isolated from buccal cells was used for genotyping three SNPs in PITX2 (rs3796902, rs1947187, and rs2595110). The analyzes were performed using a significance of 5%. There was no association between third molar agenesis and sella turcica phenotypes (p > 0.05). SNPs in PITX2 were also not associated with third molars agenesis (p > 0.05). RESULTS: SNPs in PITX2 were associated with sella turcica phenotypes. The rs3796902 was associated with hypertrophic posterior clinoid process (p = 0.013). The rs1947187 and rs2595110 were associated with sella turcica bridge type A (p = 0.013 and p = 0.011, respectively for genotype distribution). Patients that carry the genotypes GG-CC-AG (rs3796902- rs1947187- rs2595110) had 7.2 higher chance to present sella turcica bridge type A (p = 0.002; Odds ratio = 7.2, Confidence interval 95% 2.04-27.04). CONCLUSIONS: Third molar agenesis was not associated with SNPs in PITX2 and sella turcica phenotypes. SNPs in PITX2 may have an important role in sella turcica pattern.

Correlating estrogen replacement therapy and temporomandibular disorders: a comprehensive review following PRISMA principles and cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions.

BACKGROUND: Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) is a common hormonal treatment for postmenopausal women, aimed at alleviating menopausal symptoms and reducing the health risks associated with estrogen deficiency. However, the impact of ERT on temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) remains unclear. This systematic review aims to evaluate the relationship between ERT and TMDs, including TMD occurence, pain, and associated symptoms. METHODS: A comprehensive search of seven electronic databases was conducted using predefined search terms and Boolean operators. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies examining the association between ERT and TMDs. Two independent reviewers screened the identified articles, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias using the RoB -2 tool. RESULTS: Search strategy identified a total of 3 articles which met the inclusion criteria. The included studies investigated the impact of ERT on TMD occurrence and its related symptoms. The analysis revealed no significant association between ERT and TMD occurrence. A significant dose relationship was noted in one of the studies while another mentioned the possible relationship of TMD with educational status. Risk of bias among the studies was low, and the overall quality of evidence was deemed to be high. CONCLUSION: This systematic review suggests that there is no conclusive evidence supporting an increased risk of TMDs among women receiving ERT. The findings indicate that ERT is unlikely to have a noticeable impact on TMDs. However, due to the limited number of studies available, further research is warranted to strengthen these conclusions and explore potential factors that may influence the relationship between ERT and TMDs.

Salivary elemental signature of dental caries: a systematic review and meta-analysis of ionomics studies.

Trace- and macro-chemical elements are crucial for cellular physiological functioning, and their alterations in biological fluids might be associated with an underlying pathological state. Hence, this study aimed to examine and summarize the published literature concerning the application of salivary ionomics for caries diagnosis. An extensive search of studies was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus, without any language and year restriction for answering the following PECO question: "In subjects (i.e., children, adolescents, or adults) with good systematic health, are there any variations in the salivary concentrations of trace- or macro-elements between caries-free (CF) individuals and caries-active (CA) subjects?" A modified version of the QUADOMICS tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. The Review Manager Version 5.4.1. was used for data analyses. The analysis of salivary chemical elements that significantly differed between CF and CA subjects was also performed. Thirty-four studies were included, involving 2299 CA and 1669 CF subjects, having an age range from 3 to 64 years in over 16 countries. The meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in the salivary levels of calcium, phosphorus, chloride, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and zinc between CA and CF subjects, suggesting higher levels of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium in CF subjects while higher levels of chloride, magnesium, and zinc in CA patients. Half of the included studies (17/34) were considered high quality, while the remaining half were considered medium quality. Only zinc and chloride ions were found to be higher significantly and consistent in CF and CA subjects, respectively. Conflicting outcomes were observed for all other salivary chemical elements including aluminum, bromine, calcium, copper, fluoride, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, sodium, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, phosphorus, lead, selenium, and sulfate ions.

Salivary Biomarkers and Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review conducted according to PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions.

BACKGROUND: The present review aimed to investigate the association between salivary biomarkers and temporomandibular disorders (TMD). TMD is a multifactorial condition characterised by pain and dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding structures. Salivary biomarkers have emerged as potential diagnostic tools due to their non-invasiveness and easy accessibility. However, the literature on salivary biomarkers in relation to TMD is limited and inconsistent. METHODS: Electronic databases of Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, PsychINFO, CINAHL and Medline were searched using specific search terms and Boolean operators. The search was limited to articles published in English that assessed salivary biomarkers in individuals diagnosed with TMD. Two reviewers independently screened the articles and extracted data. ROB-2 was used to assess the risk of bias. RESULTS: Eleven clinical papers met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The findings provided consistent evidence of a clear association between salivary biomarkers and TMD. Various biomarkers, including cortisol, IL-1, glutamate and several others, were assessed. Some studies reported higher levels of cortisol and IL-1 in TMD patients, indicating potential involvement in stress and inflammation. Glutamate levels were found to be elevated, suggesting a role in pain modulation. Other biomarkers also showed alterations in TMD patients compared to controls: CONCLUSION: The findings from the included studies suggest that salivary biomarkers may play a role in TMD pathophysiology. Though a definitive conclusion can be drawn regarding the specific salivary biomarkers and their association with TMD, the results must be interpreted with caution considering the heterogeneity of the biomarkers assessed. Further research with larger sample sizes, standardised methodology and rigorous study designs is needed to elucidate the role of salivary biomarkers in TMD.

A systematic review and meta-analysis on ChatGPT and its utilization in medical and dental research.

Since its release, ChatGPT has taken the world by storm with its utilization in various fields of life. This review's main goal was to offer a thorough and fact-based evaluation of ChatGPT's potential as a tool for medical and dental research, which could direct subsequent research and influence clinical practices. METHODS: Different online databases were scoured for relevant articles that were in accordance with the study objectives. A team of reviewers was assembled to devise a proper methodological framework for inclusion of articles and meta-analysis. RESULTS: 11 descriptive studies were considered for this review that evaluated the accuracy of ChatGPT in answering medical queries related to different domains such as systematic reviews, cancer, liver diseases, diagnostic imaging, education, and COVID-19 vaccination. The studies reported different accuracy ranges, from 18.3 % to 100 %, across various datasets and specialties. The meta-analysis showed an odds ratio (OR) of 2.25 and a relative risk (RR) of 1.47 with a 95 % confidence interval (CI), indicating that the accuracy of ChatGPT in providing correct responses was significantly higher compared to the total responses for queries. However, significant heterogeneity was present among the studies, suggesting considerable variability in the effect sizes across the included studies. CONCLUSION: The observations indicate that ChatGPT has the ability to provide appropriate solutions to questions in the medical and dentistry areas, but researchers and doctors should cautiously assess its responses because they might not always be dependable. Overall, the importance of this study rests in shedding light on ChatGPT's accuracy in the medical and dentistry fields and emphasizing the need for additional investigation to enhance its performance. © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Impact of Cancer and Its Treatment Protocol on the Success of Orthodontic Treatment.

BACKGROUND: There are several significant gaps in current studies of the relationship between anti-cancer medications and orthodontic care that call for more investigation. As a result, the main goals of this systematic review and meta-analysis were to summarise and assess the information that was available regarding the effect of radiotherapy and anti-cancer medications on the overall successful completion of an orthodontic treatment plan. METHODS: A standardised data extraction form was devised in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis, with specific criteria implemented for selecting studies with low to moderate risk of bias. RESULTS: Five studies involving different methodologies were selected at the conclusion of the search strategy. The statistical analysis revealed an estimated odds ratio (OR) of 0.31 and relative risk (RR) of 0.48, indicating a statistically significant association between the use of radiotherapy and anti-neoplastic drugs and a noticeable reduction in the successful completion of orthodontic treatment. The heterogeneity analysis showed significant heterogeneity among the studies. CONCLUSIONS: This review emphasises that, although orthodontic therapies can still be beneficial for children receiving chemotherapy, the effectiveness of the therapy may be diminished in older populations. The findings further highlight how crucial it is to take cancer therapies into account when planning and managing orthodontic treatment in order to optimise results and reduce problems.

Evaluation of occlusal bite force distribution by T-Scan in orthodontic patients with different occlusal characteristics: a cross sectional-observational study.

BACKGROUND: The aim of orthodontic treatment, apart from esthetic and functional corrections, is uniform force distribution. Hence Occlusal analysis using a T scan gives scope for a precisely targeted treatment plan. The T-scan evaluation of occlusal force, time, and location of contacts from initial occlusal contact to maximum intercuspation enables the orthodontist to sequentially balance the occlusal forces on the right and left sides through specific treatment plan options. OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to determine the force distribution in the different individuals by using a T-Scan as well as the net discrepancies of forces generated at a maximum intercuspation position in the first molar region between the left and right sides of the mouth. METHODS: This is a descriptive-correlational study that was carried out in Ras Al Khaimah College of Dental Sciences clinics and Ajman University clinics from January 2020 to September 2022 by using the convenience sampling technique. The T-scan III Novus was employed in this investigation to record multi-bite scans for several patients. T-scan was utilised to examine various malocclusions. RESULTS: The present study consisted of 158 participants. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) showed that there is a statistically significant difference in the percentage of force between the three types of malocclusions (I, II, and III) on the right molar side (B-16 and B-46) (p < 0.05). Moreover, the overall discrepancy showed a statistically significant difference in the three types of malocclusion classifications (p < 0.05). On the other hand, there was no statistically significant difference in the percentage of force between B-26 and B-36 (p > 0.05). Post hoc analysis showed a statistically significant difference in the percentage of force between malocclusion classes I and III on the right molar, with a mean difference of 4.11190 (p < 0.05). Similarly, there was a statistically significant difference in B-46 between Malocclusion Classes I and II, 4.01806 (p < 0.05). Additionally, post hoc analysis showed a statistically significant difference between malocclusion classes I and III, with a mean difference of -4.79841 (p < 0.05) on the right molar. CONCLUSION: The T-Scan is a useful tool for assessing occlusal discrepancies and can be helpful during treatment planning and follow-up, especially for orthognathic surgery patients. A T-scan could be used in orthodontic therapy in a simple and efficient way. Also, it turned out to be a useful tool for diagnosing problems and gave us new information about how therapies work. In this study, T-Scan showed that it can measure occlusal forces in timing in an objective, accurate, and repeated manner. The current study found that T-Scan was better able to report the difference in the percentage of force on the right molar side than on the left side.

The effectiveness of minimally-invasive corticotomy-assisted orthodontic treatment of palatally impacted canines compared to the traditional traction method in terms of treatment duration, velocity of traction movement and the associated dentoalveolar changes: A randomized controlled trial.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a minimally-invasive corticotomy-assisted treatment of palatally impacted canines (PICs) compared with the traditional method by evaluating treatment time, the velocity of movement, and the associated dentoalveolar changes. Materials and methods: Forty-six patients with palatally or mid-alveolar upper impacted canines were recruited and distributed into two groups: the corticotomy-assisted traction group (CAT group, mean age: 20.39±2.27 years) and the traditional treatment group (TT group, mean age: 20.26±2.17 years). The closed surgical approach was used in both study groups. The velocity of traction movement, traction duration and overall treatment duration were evaluated clinically. In addition, the bone support ratios and the amount of root resorption were assessed on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Results: At the end of treatment, significant differences were found between the two groups regarding the velocity of traction movement, traction time, and overall treatment time (P<0.05). The mean velocity of traction movement in the CAT group was greater than the TT group ( x velocity=1.15±0.35 mm/month; 0.70±0.33 mm/month, P=0.027, respectively). The duration of the active traction and the overall orthodontic treatment in the CAT group were significantly shorter than the TT group by 36% and 29%, respectively. The mean bone support ratios of the aligned canines did not differ significantly between the two groups (88% vs. 89% in the CAT and TT groups, respectively). No significant differences were found between the two groups regarding the mean amount of root resorption on the adjacent laterals ( x resorption = 1.30±1.18 mm; 1.22±1.02 mm, P=0.612, in CAT and TT groups, respectively). Conclusions: The traction movement velocity of the palatally impacted canines can be increased using minimally-invasive corticotomy-assisted orthodontic treatment. The side effects of the acceleration procedure were minimal and almost similar to those of the traditional technique.

Frequency of Diplopia in Zygomatic Complex Fractures-A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study.

Background: The zygomatic complex is the second most common fracture of the facial bones after the nasal bone. The prominent convex shape of the zygoma makes it vulnerable to traumatic injury. Diplopia is one of the serious complications of zygomatic complex fracture and is a common subjective complaint. Objective: To determine the frequency of diplopia in zygomatic complex fractures. Methodology. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Ward, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. The duration of the study was 1 year (March 1, 2021 to February 28, 2022). A total of 126 patients having zygomatic complex fractures were included in this study. After recording the patient's complete history, like demographic details and cause for fracture, diplopia was examined clinically. If, during the examination, the patient complained of double vision, this was labeled as diplopia positive (Yes) and negative (No) if the patient did not have any such complain. Data were statistically analyzed. Results: The mean (±SD) age of patients was 33.42 (±9.27), with 91 (72.2%) male patients and 35 (27.8%) female patients. The frequency of diplopia in zygomatic complex fractures was observed in 52 (41.3%) patients. The rate of diplopia was significantly high in patients aged between 31 and 40 years (P-value=0.0005). Conclusion: The frequency of diplopia among patients having zygomatic complex fractures was high in this study. Thus, forming a strategy to properly diagnose and treat it and to prevent persistent morbidity to improve patient's quality of life is recommended.