Relação entre desmame precoce, desenvolvimento de hábitos bucais deletérios e maloclusões na infância / Relationship between early weaning, development of harmful oral habits and malocclusions in childhood

Objetivo: o objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar a associação do tempo de aleitamento materno com a prática de hábitos deletérios e o desenvolvimento de maloclusões na primeira infância. Materiais e Métodos: foram aplicados 171 formulários às mães com 18 anos ou mais que acompanharam o processo de amamentação de seu(s) filho(s) de 4 a 10 anos de idade. O questionário foi composto por 22 perguntas, sendo 15 específicas e relacionadas ao aleitamento, hábitos deletérios da criança (uso de chupeta, sucção de dedo e sucção do próprio lábio) e maloclusões específicas (mordida cruzada posterior, mordida cruzada anterior e mordida aberta). Resultados: a prevalência da amamentação exclusiva por 6 meses ou mais foi de 52%, enquanto 29,8% das crianças foram amamentadas de 0 a 5 meses e 18,2% nunca foram amamentadas no seio exclusivamente. Quanto a alimentação complementar, grande parcela (37,4%) encontrada evidenciou início após os 6 meses; 57,9% das mães relataram algum tipo de dificuldade para amamentar e 34,5% das crianças fizeram uso de chupeta. Em relação aos hábitos deletérios, 10% desenvolveram sucção de dedo. O relato de desenvolvimento de maloclusões foi de 9,4% das crianças com mordida cruzada posterior; 7,6% mordida cruzada anterior e 18,7% mordida aberta anterior. Conclusão: sendo assim, é possível inferir que o tempo preconizado pela Organização Mundial da Saúde para aleitamento materno exclusivo foi fundamental para o não desenvolvimento de hábitos deletérios e maloclusões. Em contrapartida, quanto mais cedo a introdução de alimentos complementares, e a interrupção do aleitamento exclusivo nos seis primeiros meses, maior o risco do desenvolvimento de hábitos e consequentemente maloclusões.

Objective: the objective of this research was to analyze the association of breastfeeding duration with the practice of deleterious habits and the development of malocclusions in early childhood. Materials and Methods: a total of 171 forms were applied to mothers aged 18 years or older who followed the breastfeeding process of their child(ren) between 4 and 10 years of age. The questionnaire consisted of 22 questions, 15 of which were specific and related to breastfeeding, the child's deleterious habits (use of a pacifier, finger sucking and lip sucking) and specific malocclusions (posterior crossbite, anterior crossbite and open bite). Results: the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months or more was 52%, while 29.8% of children were breastfed from 0 to 5 months and 18.2% were never exclusively breastfed. As for complementary feeding, a large portion (37.4%) found to start after 6 months; 57.9% of the mothers reported some type of difficulty in breastfeeding and 34.5% of the children used a pacifier. Regarding deleterious habits, 10% developed finger sucking. The report of development of malocclusions was 9.4% of children with posterior crossbite; 7.6% anterior crossbite and 18.7% anterior open bite. Conclusion: therefore, it is possible to infer that the time recommended by the World Health Organization for exclusive breastfeeding was fundamental for the non-development of deleterious habits and malocclusions. On the other hand, the earlier the introduction of complementary foods and the interruption of exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months, the greater the risk of developing habits and, consequently, malocclusions.

Effect of micro-osteoperforations on the gene expression profile of the periodontal ligament of orthodontically moved human teeth.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of micro-osteoperforations (MOPs) on the gene expression profile of the periodontal ligament (PDL) of orthodontically moved teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifteen participants were randomly assigned into two groups: tooth movement only (Tr1, n = 7) and tooth movement supplemented with MOPs (Tr2, n = 8). In each subject, orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) was performed on premolar in one side, while no force was applied on contralateral premolar (Unt, n = 15). Seven days after loading, premolars were extracted for orthodontic reasons. RNA extraction from PDL and subsequent RNA-sequencing were performed. False discovery rates (Padj < 0.05) and log2 fold change (+ / - 1.5) thresholds were used to identify sets of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) among the groups. DEGs were analyzed with gene ontology enrichment, KEGG, and network analysis. RESULTS: Three hundred thirty-one DEGs were found between Tr1 and Unt, and 356 between Tr2 and Unt. Although, there were no significantly DEGs between Tr2 and Tr1, DEGs identified exclusively in Tr1 vs. Unt were different from those identified exclusively in Tr2 vs. Unt. In Tr1, genes were related to bone metabolism processes, such as osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation. In Tr2, genes were associated to inflammation processes, like inflammatory and immune responses, and cellular response to tumor necrosis factor. CONCLUSIONS: MOPs do not significantly alter the PDL gene expression profile of orthodontically moved human teeth. This study provides for the first time evidence on the whole PDL gene expression profiles associated to OTM in humans. Novel biomarkers for OTM are suggested for additional research. Clinical relevance The identified biomarkers provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms that would occur when OTM is supplemented with MOPs. These markers are expected to be useful in the near future for the application of personalized strategies related to the OTM.

New SHH and Known SIX3 Variants in a Series of Latin American Patients with Holoprosencephaly.

Holoprosencephaly (HPE) is the failure of the embryonic forebrain to develop into 2 hemispheres promoting midline cerebral and facial defects. The wide phenotypic variability and causal heterogeneity make genetic counseling difficult. Heterozygous variants with incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity in the SHH, SIX3, ZIC2, and TGIF1 genes explain ∼25% of the known causes of nonchromosomal HPE. We studied these 4 genes and clinically described 27 Latin American families presenting with nonchromosomal HPE. Three new SHH variants and a third known SIX3 likely pathogenic variant found by Sanger sequencing explained 15% of our cases. Genotype-phenotype correlation in these 4 families and published families with identical or similar driver gene, mutated domain, conservation of residue in other species, and the type of variant explain the pathogenicity but not the phenotypic variability. Nine patients, including 2 with SHH pathogenic variants, presented benign variants of the SHH, SIX3, ZIC2, and TGIF1 genes with potential alteration of splicing, a causal proposition in need of further studies. Finding more families with the same SIX3 variant may allow further identification of genetic or environmental modifiers explaining its variable phenotypic expression.

FGF10 and FGF13 genetic variation and tooth-size discrepancies.

OBJECTIVES: To explore whether variations in odontogenesis-related genes are associated with tooth-size discrepancies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Measurements of the width of permanent teeth were obtained from dental casts of 62 orthodontic patients (age 15.65 ± 6.82 years; 29 males and 33 females). Participants were classified according to the anterior and overall Bolton ratios as without tooth-size discrepancy or with maxillary or mandibular tooth-size excess. Genomic DNA extracted from buccal cells was used, and 13 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across nine genes were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction using TaqMan chemistry. χ2 or Fisher exact tests were applied to determine the overrepresentation of genotypes/alleles depending on the type of tooth-size discrepancy (α = .05; corrected P value: P < 5.556 × 10-3). Odds ratios (ORs) and their correspondent 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were also calculated to investigate the risk of this phenotype for the SNPs having significant association. RESULTS: Individuals carrying the FGF10 rs900379 T allele were more likely to have larger mandibular teeth (OR = 3.74; 95% CI: 1.65-8.47; P = .002). This effect appeared to be stronger when two copies of the risk allele (TT) were found (recessive model, OR = 6.16; 95% CI: 1.71-22.16; P = .006). On the other hand, FGF13 rs5931572 rare homozygotes (AA, or male A hemizygotes) had increased risk of displaying tooth-size discrepancies when compared with the common homozygotes (GG, or male G hemizygotes; OR = 10.32; 95% CI: 2.20-48.26; P = .003). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that FGF10 and FGF13 may contribute to the presence of tooth-size discrepancies.

Mapping of supernumerary elements in patients seeking orthodontic treatment

Dimension, number and shape alterations are frequently observed dental anomalies. Objective: The aim of this study was to map the frequency, the preferred location and the most prevalent types of supernumerary teeth, in the studied population. In addition, to assess the interference that supernumerary teeth may cause in the ectopic eruption of the normal dental series teeth. Methods: This is an observational retrospective study. Data collection was performed by evaluation of dental records of patients treated in an orthodontic clinic. Patients' radiographs, photographs and gypsum dental models were analyzed and data recorded in protocol files, by previously trained undergraduate and postgraduate students. Records from 1984 to 2019 were evaluated, and evaluation lasted two months. Data were stored in Microsoft Office Excel (version 2016) for descriptive analysis. Results: From the 920 patients' records analyzed, 2.7% presented at least one supernumerary tooth, with preferred location on the anterior maxillary area and mandibular parapremolar area. The most prevalent type was the supplemental tooth, with normal eruption orientation and normal alveolar location. Conclusion: The supernumerary teeth of the studied population showed little interference in the ectopic eruption of the normal dental series. Most of the supernumerary teeth were impacted, and, approximately one third of the supernumerary teeth showed deviated eruptions.

Introdução: Alterações de dimensão, número e forma são anomalias dentárias comumente observadas. Objetivo: O objetivo foi mapear a frequência de dentes supranumerários na população estudada, sua localização preferida e os tipos mais prevalentes. Além disso, avaliar a interferência que os dentes supranumerários podem causar na erupção ectópica da série dental normal. Métodos: A pesquisa possui desenho retrospectivo observacional. A coleta de dados foi realizada pela avaliação de prontuários odontológicos dos pacientes atendidos em uma clínica ortodôntica. Foram analisados radiografias, fotografias e modelos de gesso dental dos pacientes e as informações foram registradas em arquivos de protocolo do estudo. A coleta de dados foi realizada por uma estudante de graduação e uma da pós-graduação, previamente calibradas. A coleta durou dois meses e foram avaliados registros de 1984 a 2019. Os dados foram tratados no programa Microsoft Office Excel (version 2016) com análise descritiva dos dados. Resultados: Dos 920 prontuários analisados, 2,7% apresentavam pelo menos um dente supranumerário, com localização preferida na área superior anterior e na área parapremolar mandibular. O tipo mais prevalente foi o dente suplementar, com orientação de erupção normal e localização alveolar normal. Conclusão: Os dentes supranumerários da população estudada neste estudo mostraram pouca interferência na erupção ectópica da série dental normal. A maioria dos dentes supranumerários estava em posição de impactação. E, aproximadamente um terço dos dentes supranumerários apresentaram desvios de erupção.

Global gene expression profile of periodontal ligament cells submitted to mechanical loading: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the evidence reporting gene expression array data of human in vitro cultured periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) submitted to static mechanical loading compared to a control group. DESIGN: Systematic searches were performed in MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Virtual Health Library, The Cochrane Library and the System for Information on Grey Literature in Europe up to June 2019. A narrative synthesis was performed to summarize differentially expressed genes (DEGs). These were grouped according to the culture method (2D or 3D), force type (compression or tension) and observation time. Additionally, gene ontology (GO) analysis was performed using the Database for Annotation Visualization and Integrated Discovery. The risk of bias (RoB) and certainty of evidence (CoE) were assessed using a modified CONSORT checklist and the GRADE tool, respectively. RESULTS: Of eight studies included (all rated as having moderate RoB), only two provided the complete list of DEGs and four studies performed GO, gene network or pathways analysis. "Cell proliferation", "cell-cell signaling", "response to hypoxia and to mechanical stimulus" were among the significantly enriched biological processes in 3D-cultured compressed PDLCs (moderate CoE); while "collagen catabolic process", "extracellular matrix organization" and "cell proliferation" were associated with DEGs of 3D-cultured PDLCs submitted to tension (very low CoE). Biological processes significantly enriched in 2D-cultured PDLCs under compression were "extracellular matrix organization", "canonical glycolysis" and "glycolytic process" (very low CoE). CONCLUSION: Genes such as NR4A2, NR4A3, NAMPT, PGK1, and REDD1 are suggested as novel biomarkers for orthodontic tooth movement. Limited amount of evidence on the complete gene expression profile and the high heterogeneity in methodologies make it impossible to obtain definite conclusions. New studies following standardized and well-designed in vitro model and reporting complete gene expression datasets are needed.

Rates of tooth movement and bone remodeling activity: Self-ligating versus conventional brackets.

BACKGROUND: Bracket systems have been developed with the purpose of reducing frictional resistance between the archwire and accessories. The aim of this research was to compare rates of tooth movement and regions of cellular bone modeling activity along tooth root surfaces of teeth moved with conventional vs. self-ligating brackets. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The experiments were conducted in 20 male dogs. Bands were cemented in all intermediate incisors, with conventional brackets (Morelli) on the right side and hybrid self-ligating ones (T3-American Orthodontics) on the left side. A 0.019" x 0.025" stainless steel wire was inserted passively in the slot of these brackets with chain elastics (250 gf) to perform sliding mechanics. Clinical records of the orthodontic mechanics were made before and after 15 days of the tooth movement. The dental segments of the animals were prepared for light microscopy. Statistical analysis of variance and the Tukey correction with a P value at 5% were used. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in tooth movement rates between the two types of brackets but differences, in the bone modeling activity, suggested that tooth movement with the self-ligating brackets resulted in more tipping and less translational movement than tooth movement with the conventional brackets. CONCLUSIONS: The rates of tooth movement were similar between the two systems. The histological evaluation of cellular bone modeling activity along tooth root surfaces showed more translation movement of teeth with the conventional brackets, and more tipping movement of teeth with self-ligating brackets. Key words:Edgewise, histological reactions, orthodontic movement, self-ligating, brackets.

Remnant adhesive flash in orthodontic bonding systems with different characteristics

Introduction: Excess of adhesive around brackets negatively impact oral health of orthodontic patients. Objective: Evaluate the influence of orthodontic bonding system in removal of adhesive flash around orthodontic brackets. Methods: Based on their characteristics, four orthodontic bonding systems were selected: lightcuring adhesive (G1 - TransbondTM XT); pink pigmented light-curing adhesive (G2- TransbondTM Plus Color Change); resin-modified glass ionomer cement (G3 - FujiOrthoTM LC); and auto-curing adhesive (G4 - ConciseTM). For each group (n=10), a single operator placed metal brackets on bovine teeth (n=40) and used an explorer tip to visually remove flash excess. After curing / setting, the sampleswere taken to a stereomicroscope and the Axio Vision 4.4 software was used to measure the area of remnant adhesive flash around each bracket. The quantitative data obtained was analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's post hoc test at = 0.05. Results: The results show that the resin-modified glass ionomer cement (G3) had a larger area of remnant material than the other groups. There was no statistical difference between the other groups (G1, G2, and G4), independently of pigmentation or curing technique. Conclusion: It was concluded that the use of a resin-modified glass ionomer cement results in a larger area of remnant flash excess, which can negatively impact oral health. Pigmentation and curing technique did not influence on remnant flash excess.

Introdução: O excesso de material de colagem que permanece ao redor dos bráquetes impacta negativamente a saúde bucal dos pacientes ortodônticos. Objetivo: Avaliar a influência dos sistemas de colagem ortodônticos na remoção de excesso de adesivo ao redor de bráquetes. Métodos: Baseado em suas características, quatro sistemas de colagem ortodônticos foram selecionados: adesivo fotopolimerizável (G1 ­ TransbondTM XT); adesivo fotopolimerizável com pigmentação rosa (G2 - TransbondTM Plus Color Change); cimento de ionômero de vidro reforçado com resina (G3 - FujiOrthoTM LC); e adesivo autopolimerizável (G4 - ConciseTM). Para cada grupo (n=10), um único operador posicionou os bráquetes em dentes bovinos (n=40) e utilizou uma sonda exploradora para remoção visual do excesso de material de colagem. Após a polimerização / tempo de cura, as amostras foram levadas ao estereomicroscópio e o software Axio Vision 4,4 foi utilizado para mensurar a área de excesso de adesivo remanescente ao redor de cada bráquete. Os dados quantitativos obtidos foram analisados pelos testes de Kruskal-Wallis e post-hoc de Dunn em significância de = 0,05. Resultados: O cimento de ionômero de vidro reforçado por resina (G3) apresentou a maior área de remanescente de excesso. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os demais grupos (G1, G2 e G4), independente da pigmentação ou do método de polimerização. Conclusão: O uso de cimento de ionômero de vidro reforçado por resina resulta em maior área de excesso remanescente, o que pode impactar negativamente a saúde bucal. A pigmentação e o método de polimerização não influenciaram no excesso de material remanescente.

Escobar Syndrome-An Multidisciplinary Approach for an Excellent Outcome With 3 Years of Follow-Up.

This case report intends to provide the facial characteristics of Escobar syndrome and to describe the orthodontic treatment of a 12-year-old female patient diagnosed with it. Escobar syndrome, a variant of the multiple pterygium syndrome, is a rare disorder with many systemic, facial, and oral manifestations.The patient presented with mixed dentition, severe dolichofacial pattern, increased lower facial height, convex profile, severe anterior open bite, maxillary hypoplasia, and mandibular retrognatism. The multidisciplinary approach included soft cleft palate repair, orthodontic treatment, orthognathic surgery, restorative cosmetic dentistry, speech therapy, and physiotherapy. Despite the limitations imposed by the syndrome, this report illustrates how the multidisciplinary treatment approach aided in the correction of occlusal function and facial esthetics and improvement in the quality of life of the patient with Escobar syndrome.

What are the advantages of living in a community? A microbial biofilm perspective!

Biofilm formation is the preferred mode of growth lifestyle for many microorganisms, including bacterial and fungal human pathogens. Biofilm is a strong and dynamic structure that confers a broad range of advantages to its members, such as adhesion/cohesion capabilities, mechanical properties, nutritional sources, metabolite exchange platform, cellular communication, protection and resistance to drugs (e.g., antimicrobials, antiseptics, and disinfectants), environmental stresses (e.g., dehydration and ultraviolet light), host immune attacks (e.g., antibodies, complement system, antimicrobial peptides, and phagocytes), and shear forces. Microbial biofilms cause problems in the hospital environment, generating high healthcare costs and prolonged patient stay, which can result in further secondary microbial infections and various health complications. Consequently, both public and private investments must be made to ensure better patient management, as well as to find novel therapeutic strategies to circumvent the resistance and resilience profiles arising from biofilm-associated microbial infections. In this work, we present a general overview of microbial biofilm formation and its relevance within the biomedical context.

What are the advantages of living in a community? A microbial biofilm perspective!

Biofilm formation is the preferred mode of growth lifestyle for many microorganisms, including bacterial and fungal human pathogens. Biofilm is a strong and dynamic structure that confers a broad range of advantages to its members, such as adhesion/cohesion capabilities, mechanical properties, nutritional sources, metabolite exchange platform, cellular communication, protection and resistance to drugs (e.g., antimicrobials, antiseptics, and disinfectants), environmental stresses (e.g., dehydration and ultraviolet light), host immune attacks (e.g., antibodies, complement system, antimicrobial peptides, and phagocytes), and shear forces. Microbial biofilms cause problems in the hospital environment, generating high healthcare costs and prolonged patient stay, which can result in further secondary microbial infections and various health complications. Consequently, both public and private investments must be made to ensure better patient management, as well as to find novel therapeutic strategies to circumvent the resistance and resilience profiles arising from biofilm-associated microbial infections. In this work, we present a general overview of microbial biofilm formation and its relevance within the biomedical context.

Influence of Primekote® polymer in orthodontic bonding / Influência do polímero Primekote® na colagem ortodôntica

Objective: The Primekote® (TP) polymer was incorporated to the of Orthodontic Bracket mesh base to improve bond strength and make it more efficient. The purpose of this study was to assess the shear bond strength and adhesive remnant index (ARI) of these brackets. Material and method: The test sample consisted of thirty bovine incisors divided into 2 groups: with a group with TP® brackets (n=15), and a control group with Morelli® brackets (n=15) without Primekote® technology. The TransbondTM XT was used as adhesive system in both groups, following the same protocol and manufacturer’s instructions. Specimens were stored in distilled water for 24 hours and then submitted to shear bond strength test in a universal testing machine (EMIC DL2000). The assessment of ARI was performed under stereomicroscope by two calibrated examiners. Result: No significant differences (p>0.05) in shear bond strength were found between the two groups according to the independent t-test. The Wilcoxon test was used to assess ARI data and statistical difference was found between Morelli® and TP® Nu-Edge brackets; the last one left less remaining adhesive on tooth surface. Conclusion: TP® brackets had higher adherence to the adhesive system as shown by lower ARI scores, but this does not improve its clinical performance.

Objetivo: Avaliar a resistência ao cisalhamento e o índice de remanescente adesivo (IRA) dos bráquetes que tiveram o polímero Primekote® incorporado a suas bases. Material e método: Foram confeccionados trinta corpos de prova com incisivos bovinos, divididos em dois grupos: o colado com bráquete TP® Nu-Edge(n=15) e grupo controle com bráquetes Morelli® (n=15) sem tratamento na base. O sistema adesivo TransbondTM XT foi utilizado nos dois grupos seguindo o mesmo protocolo de colagem e respeitando as instruções do fabricante. Os corpos de prova foram armazenados em água destilada por 24 horas, e posteriormente submetidos ao teste de cisalhamento na máquina de ensaios universais (EMIC-DL2000). O IRA foi avaliado por dois examinadores calibrados utilizando lupa estereoscópica com aumento de 20 vezes. Resultado: Na resistência ao cisalhamento o teste T-independente mostrou não haver diferença estatisticamente significante entre os grupos (p>0,05), ambos tiveram desempenho semelhante. O teste Wilcoxon foi utilizado nos valores obtidos no IRA revelando diferença estatística, sendo que os bráquetes TP® deixaram menos remanescente adesivo na superfície dental que os bráquetes Morelli®. Conclusão: Bráquetes TP® apresentaram maior adesão ao sistema adesivo pois foi encontrado menor IRA nos mesmos, porém esta característica não reflete em melhora no desempenho clínico.

Human dental follicle cells express embryonic, mesenchymal and neural stem cells markers.

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to identify and characterize dental follicle stem cells (DFSCs) by analyzing expression of embryonic, mesenchymal and neural stem cells surface markers. Design Dental follicle cells (DFCs) were evaluated by immunocytochemistry using embryonic stem cells markers (OCT4 and SOX2), mesenchmal stem cells (MSCs) markers (Notch1, active Notch1, STRO, CD44, HLA-ABC, CD90), neural stem cells markers (Nestin and ß-III-tubulin), neural crest stem cells (NCSCs) markers (p75 and HNK1) and a glial cells marker (GFAP). RT-PCR was performed to identify the expression of OCT4 and NANOG in DFCs and dental follicle tissue. RESULTS: Immunocytochemistry and RT-PCR analysis revealed that a significant proportion of the DFCs evaluated expressed human embryonic stem cells marker OCT4 (75%) whereas NANOG was weakly expressed. A considerable amount of MSCs (90%) expressed Notch1, STRO, CD44 and HLA-ABC. However, they were weakly positive for CD90. Moreover, it was possible to demonstrate that dental follicle contains a significant proportion of neural stem/progenitors cells, expressing ß-III-tubulin (90%) and nestin (70%). Interestingly, immunocytochemistry showed DFCs positive for p75 (50%), HNK1 (<10%) and a small proportion (<20%) of GFAP-positive cells. This is the first study reporting the presence of NCSCs and glial-like cells in the dental follicle. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study suggest the occurrence of heterogeneous populations of stem cells, particularly neural stem/progenitor cells, in the dental follicle, Therefore, the human dental follicle might be a promising source of adult stem cells for regenerative purposes.

New methodology for evaluating osteoclastic activity induced by orthodontic load.

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is a dynamic process of bone modeling involving osteoclast-driven resorption on the compression side. Consequently, to estimate the influence of various situations on tooth movement, experimental studies need to analyze this cell. Objectives The aim of this study was to test and validate a new method for evaluating osteoclastic activity stimulated by mechanical loading based on the fractal analysis of the periodontal ligament (PDL)-bone interface. Material and Methods The mandibular right first molars of 14 rabbits were tipped mesially by a coil spring exerting a constant force of 85 cN. To evaluate the actual influence of osteoclasts on fractal dimension of bone surface, alendronate (3 mg/Kg) was injected weekly in seven of those rabbits. After 21 days, the animals were killed and their jaws were processed for histological evaluation. Osteoclast counts and fractal analysis (by the box counting method) of the PDL-bone interface were performed in histological sections of the right and left sides of the mandible. Results An increase in the number of osteoclasts and in fractal dimension after OTM only happened when alendronate was not administered. Strong correlation was found between the number of osteoclasts and fractal dimension. Conclusions Our results suggest that osteoclastic activity leads to an increase in bone surface irregularity, which can be quantified by its fractal dimension. This makes fractal analysis by the box counting method a potential tool for the assessment of osteoclastic activity on bone surfaces in microscopic examination.

New methodology for evaluating osteoclastic activity induced by orthodontic load

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is a dynamic process of bone modeling involving osteoclast-driven resorption on the compression side. Consequently, to estimate the influence of various situations on tooth movement, experimental studies need to analyze this cell. Objectives The aim of this study was to test and validate a new method for evaluating osteoclastic activity stimulated by mechanical loading based on the fractal analysis of the periodontal ligament (PDL)-bone interface. Material and Methods The mandibular right first molars of 14 rabbits were tipped mesially by a coil spring exerting a constant force of 85 cN. To evaluate the actual influence of osteoclasts on fractal dimension of bone surface, alendronate (3 mg/Kg) was injected weekly in seven of those rabbits. After 21 days, the animals were killed and their jaws were processed for histological evaluation. Osteoclast counts and fractal analysis (by the box counting method) of the PDL-bone interface were performed in histological sections of the right and left sides of the mandible. Results An increase in the number of osteoclasts and in fractal dimension after OTM only happened when alendronate was not administered. Strong correlation was found between the number of osteoclasts and fractal dimension. Conclusions Our results suggest that osteoclastic activity leads to an increase in bone surface irregularity, which can be quantified by its fractal dimension. This makes fractal analysis by the box counting method a potential tool for the assessment of osteoclastic activity on bone surfaces in microscopic examination. .

Avaliação longitudinal em pacientes com má oclusão de Classe II Divisão 1 submetidos ao tratamento ortodôntico sem extrações – análise de modelos / Long-term evaluation in Class II Division 1 patients after nonextraction orthodontic treatment – Dental cast analysis

O objetivo deste estudo longitudinal foi avaliar as alterações dentárias pós-tratamento e em longo prazo em pacientes Classe II Divisão 1 de Angle tratados com aparelho extrabucal cervical e aparelho ortodôntico fixo sem extrações dentárias. Os modelos dentários de 33 pacientes foram avaliados no pré-tratamento (T1), pós-tratamento (T2) e pós-contenção (T3). Os pacientes apresentavam em média 10,7 anos em T1, 15,1 anos em T2, e 26,2 anos no T3. As larguras intermolares e intercaninos, comprimento do arco, perímetro do arco, overjet, overbite e irregularidade dos incisivos inferiores foram avaliados nos modelos do arco maxilar e mandibular. Para identificar mudanças estatisticamente significativas em curto prazo (T1-T2) e longo prazo (T2-T3) foi utilizado o teste t de Student. Os resultados mostraram que, durante o tratamento, as larguras do arco maxilar e mandibular foram significativamente aumentadas, tanto nas regiões de molares quanto de caninos, e reduzidas no período pós-contenção. Durante o tratamento apenas o comprimento do arco mandibular reduziu, no entanto, em T3, o perímetro e o comprimento diminuíram em ambos os arcos. Overjet e overbite diminuíram em média 5,5 mm e 2,1 mm, respectivamente, no pós-tratamento e ambos aumentaram (média de 0,5 mm e 0,4 mm) na avaliação pós-contenção. A irregularidade dos incisivos inferiores diminuiu em média de 1,9 mm durante o tratamento e aumentou em média 1,1 mm depois do tratamento. Concluiu-se que a terapia utilizada foi eficaz para a correção da má oclusão de Classe II Divisão 1. Após o período de contenção, mínimas alterações dentárias podem ser esperadas na largura intercanino e intermolar, perímetro e comprimento dos arcos, irregularidade dos incisivos e overjet.

The aim of this longitudinal study was to evaluate the post-treatment and long-term dental changes in Class II Division 1 malocclusion patients treated with cervical headgear in conjunction with full-fixed appliance in nonextraction therapy. Dental casts of 33 patients were evaluated at: pretreatment (T1), post-treatment (T2), and postretention (T3). The mean ages were 10.7 years at T1, 15.1 years at T2, and 26.2 years at T3. Molars and canines transversal widths, arch length, arch perimeter, overjet, overbite and lower incisor irregularity were assessed on maxillary and mandibular dental casts. To identify statistically significant changes in short term (T1-T2) and long-term (T2-T3) was used the Student paired t test. The results showed that, during treatment, maxillary and mandibular widths have increased significantly, at both, molar and canine regions and reduced in postretention period. During treatment only mandibular arch length showed reduction, however at T3 perimeter and length, decreased for maxillary and mandibular arches. Overjet and overbite had a mean decreased, during treatment of 5.5 mm and 2.1 mm, respectively, and both increased (mean of 0.5 mm and 0.4mm) in postretention evaluation. Lower incisor irregularity decreased mean was 1.9 mm during treatment and increased mean of 1.1 mm after. The therapy used was effective for Class II Division 1 malocclusion correction. After the retention period small dental changes can be expected in intercanine and intermolar width, arch perimeter and length, incisor irregularity and overjet.

Comparison of 2 types of treatment of skeletal Class II malocclusions: a 5-year post-retention analysis

Aim: To compare 2 types of treatment for Class II malocclusion assessing mandibular behavior in subjects submitted to full orthodontic treatment with standard edgewise appliance and cervical headgear (Kloehn appliance) and those who used cervical headgear in the first period and with full orthodontic appliance in the second period. Methods: The sample consisted of 80 children treated with either cervical headgear combined with full fixed appliances (n=40, group 1), or with cervical headgear at first (n=40, group 2). In both groups, lateral cephalometric radiographs were compared with those made at the beginning of treatment, at its end and at 5-year post-retention phase, in order to quantify the cephalometric measures (8 angular and 3 linear), presenting the mandibular behavior in the antero-posterior and vertical directions. All patients were treated with no extraction and no use of Class II intermaxillary elastics during the full orthodontic treatment. Results: In both groups, the effective treatment of skeletal Class II malocclusion did not interfere in the direction and amount of growth of mandibular condyles and remodeling at the lower border, with no influence on the anti-clockwise rotation of the mandible. The mandibular growth also was observed after the orthodontic treatment, suggesting that it is influenced by genetic factors. Conclusions: These observations may lead to the speculation that growing patients with skeletal Class II malocclusion and low mandibular plane are conducive to a good treatment and long-term stability with one or two periods of treatment.

Changes in skeletal and dental relationship in Class II Division I malocclusion after rapid maxillary expansion: a prospective study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess skeletal and dental changes immediately after rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in Class II Division 1 malocclusion patients and after a retention period, using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging. METHODS: Seventeen children with Class II, Division 1 malocclusion and maxillary skeletal transverse deficiency underwent RME following the Haas protocol. CBCT were taken before treatment (T1), at the end of the active expansion phase (T2) and after a retention period of 6 months (T3). The scanned images were measured anteroposteriorly (SNA, SNB, ANB, overjet and MR) and vertically (N-ANS, ANS-Me, N-Me and overbite). RESULTS: Significant differences were identified immediately after RME as the maxilla moved forward, the mandible moved downward, overjet increased and overbite decreased. During the retention period, the maxilla relapsed backwards and the mandible was displaced forward, leaving patients with an overall increase in anterior facial height. CONCLUSION: RME treatment allowed more anterior than inferior positioning of the mandible during the retention period, thus significantly improving Class II dental relationship in 75% of the patients evaluated.

Changes in skeletal and dental relationship in Class II Division I malocclusion after rapid maxillary expansion: a prospective study

OBJECTIVE: To assess skeletal and dental changes immediately after rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in Class II Division 1 malocclusion patients and after a retention period, using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging. METHODS: Seventeen children with Class II, Division 1 malocclusion and maxillary skeletal transverse deficiency underwent RME following the Haas protocol. CBCT were taken before treatment (T1), at the end of the active expansion phase (T2) and after a retention period of 6 months (T3). The scanned images were measured anteroposteriorly (SNA, SNB, ANB, overjet and MR) and vertically (N-ANS, ANS-Me, N-Me and overbite). RESULTS: Significant differences were identified immediately after RME as the maxilla moved forward, the mandible moved downward, overjet increased and overbite decreased. During the retention period, the maxilla relapsed backwards and the mandible was displaced forward, leaving patients with an overall increase in anterior facial height. CONCLUSION: RME treatment allowed more anterior than inferior positioning of the mandible during the retention period, thus significantly improving Class II dental relationship in 75% of the patients evaluated. .

OBJETIVO: avaliar, por meio de imagens de tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico (TCFC), as mudanças esqueléticas e dentárias, imediatas e após 6 meses de contenção, causadas pela expansão rápida da maxila (ERM) em pacientes com má oclusão de Classe II, divisão 1. MÉTODOS: dezessete crianças com má oclusão de Classe II, divisão 1, e deficiência transversal da maxila, foram submetidas a ERM, de acordo com o protocolo proposto por Haas. TCFC foram realizadas antes da ERM (T1), imediatamente após a fase ativa (T2) e após 6 meses de contenção (T3). Alterações anteroposteriores (SNA, SNB, ANB, overjet e RM) e verticais (N-ANS, ANS-Me, N-Me e overbite) foram analisadas. RESULTADOS: imediatamente após a ERM, enquanto a maxila se deslocou para frente, a mandíbula se movimentou para frente e para baixo, aumentando o overjet e diminuindo o overbite. Durante o período de contenção, a maxila retornou para posterior e a mandíbula deslocou em direção anterior, aumentando a altura facial anterior. CONCLUSÃO: a realização da ERM permitiu que a mandíbula se posicionasse mais anteriormente do que inferior durante o período de contenção, melhorando a relação molar de Classe II em 75% dos pacientes avaliados. .

Evaluation of two protocols for low-level laser application in patients submitted to orthodontic treatment.

INTRODUCTION: Different low-level laser (LLL) irradiation protocols have been tested to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). Nevertheless, divergent results have been obtained. It was suggested that the stimulatory action of low level laser irradiation occurs during the proliferation and differentiation stages of bone cellular precursors, but not during later stages. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of two protocols of LLL irradiation on experimental tooth movement: One with daily irradiations and another with irradiations during the early stages. METHODS: Thirty-six rats were divided into control groups (CG1, CG2, CG3) and irradiated groups (IrG1, IrG2, IrG3) according to the presence of: experimental tooth movement, laser irradiation, type of laser irradiation protocol and date of euthanasia (3th or 8th day of experiment). At the end of experimental periods, a quantitative evaluation of the amount of OTM was made and the reactions of the periodontium were analyzed by describing cellular and tissue reactions and by counting blood vessels. RESULTS: The amount of OTM revealed no significant differences between groups in the same experimental period (p < 0.05). Qualitative analysis revealed the strongest resorption activity in irradiated groups after seven days, especially when using the daily irradiation protocol. There was a higher number of blood vessels in irradiated animals than in animals without orthodontic devices and without laser irradiation (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Moreover, angiogenesis was verified in some of the irradiated groups. The irradiation protocols tested were not able to accelerate OTM and root resorption was observed while they were applied.