Influence of Intravascular Laser Irradiation of Blood (ILIB) on inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide in vivo: a systematic review.

The use of Intravascular Laser Irradiation of Blood (ILIB) as a treatment or adjunct tool has been used around the world since the 1980s. So that more professionals can deliver benefits to their patients in different areas of health, it is necessary to understand in depth the mechanisms of laser action at the molecular level, for correct indication and success in the treatment. To analyze works that evaluated the influence of ILIB on inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide (NO) in animals and humans. The literature search was carried out between February and April 2023 in Pubmed, Medline, Web of Science, SciELO, Lilacs database. The risk of bias was assessed using the bias table where the authors performed the analyzes of all articles with the risk of bias domains. The methodology was defined following the PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Systematic Reviews and MetaAnalysis Report). The search retrieved 135 possibly relevant articles. After removing duplicates, according to the eligibility criteria, evaluation of titles and review of abstracts, in the end, 6 articles were included. An increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines, a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines and an increase in NO can be observed. The wavelengths used ranged from 660 to 808 nm when using a low intensity laser and when using a VIP light source 480-3400 nm, they also differed in terms of the light emission pattern. ILIB may be a complementary treatment option for patients who have comorbidities that lead to systemic inflammation.

Laser acupuncture to reduce temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms: systematic review and meta-analysis.

The application of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to acupuncture points may produce effects similar to that of needle stimulation in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). This systematic review was conducted according to the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines and aimed to address clinical questions using the following strategy: Patient/Problem, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO). A comprehensive literature search was performed upto April 26, 2023, across nine electronic databases (BVS, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), and Google Scholar) supplemented with gray literature. The risk of bias in randomized and nonrandomized clinical trials was assessed using two tools: risk-of-bias (RoB) 2 and Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies-of Interventions (ROBINS-I). Meta-analysis involved the extraction of mean and standard deviation values for spontaneous pain and mouth opening levels. Seven studies were included in this review, all of which used LLLT. The applied wavelengths ranged from 690 to 810 nm without significant variations in light emission patterns. LLLT demonstrated a significant reduction in instantaneous pain levels (standard mean difference [SMD] = 3.85; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.09, 5.62; p < 0.003) and an improvement in instantaneous mouth opening ability (mean difference [SMD] = -7.15; 95% CI = -11.73, -2.58; p < 0.002), with low certainty of evidence. LLLT may alleviate symptoms in patients with TMD; however, caution should be exercised when interpreting the results because of protocol variations among studies and the limited number of studies included in the meta-analysis.

Do erbium lasers promote changes in the tooth enamel during debonding of ceramic laminate veneers? A systematic review.

The longevity of ceramic laminate veneers can be influenced by several factors, which can result in the need for a removal process. Laser removal has emerged as a good alternative to facilitate the procedure, and its repercussions on tooth enamel have been investigated. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of erbium lasers for debonding ceramic laminate veneers without damaging the tooth enamel. This systematic review based on the PICOS model adhered to the PRISMA statement. The PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus databases were systematically searched until December 1, 2022, and 2902 studies were retrieved. After screening, four in vitro studies that analyzed the dental morphology using scanning electron microscopy, optical analysis, stereomicroscopy, or x-ray dispersion spectroscopy were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Our findings suggest that erbium lasers are useful for ceramic laminate veneer removal without damaging the tooth enamel. However, the removal is influenced by the type and thickness of ceramic and type of cement used. It could be concluded that the application of Erbium laser did not promote superficial changes in the dental enamel. This effect was observed in all analysis performed.

Conhecimento e repercussões emocionais da COVID-19 entre estudantes de Odontologia brasileiros / Conocimientos y repercusiones emocionales de la COVID-19 entre estudiantes brasileños de odontología / Knowledge about and emotional impact of COVID-19 among Brazilian dental students

Em decorrência da pandemia de COVID-19, implementou-se atividades remotas de ensino, como medida de distanciamento social. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o conhecimento dos graduandos de Odontologia brasileiros sobre a COVID-19, bem como o possível impacto da pandemia nas condições emocionais e sociais destes estudantes. Trata-se de um estudo transversal com coleta de dados primários, por meio de questionário estruturado. O questionário ficou vigente no período de 11 de agosto a 11 de setembro de 2020, com envios semanais, com amostragem de conveniência. Os dados foram submetidos à análise descritiva. A pesquisa abrangeu discentes doprimeiro ao décimo período do curso de Odontologia, das diferentes regiões brasileiras. Foram coletadas 520 respostas, de 14 estados do país. Os alunos demonstraram ter um alto nível de conhecimento sobre a COVID-19, 77,31% não se sentiam seguros, 85,96% alegaram medo em relação ao futuro e 96,15% afirmaram ter havido prejuízos no seu curso de graduação. Dentre os alunos, 69,56% relataram piora no estado emocional, 83,08% perceberam-se mais estressados, 58,46% afirmaram ter desenvolvido insônia e 51,25% afirmaram que a pandemia afetou negativamente as finanças familiares. Conclui-se que os graduandos de Odontologia brasileiros têm conhecimento sobre a COVID-19 e a pandemia os afetou negativamente em relação aos aspectos emocionais e sociais (AU).

A raíz de la pandemia del COVID-19, se implementaron actividades de enseñanza a distancia como medida de distanciamiento social. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el conocimiento de los estudiantes brasileños de odontología sobre el COVID-19, así como el posible impacto de la pandemia en las condiciones emocionales ysociales de estos estudiantes. Se trata de un estudio transversal con recogida de datos primarios a través de un cuestionario estructurado. El cuestionario estuvo vigente del 11 de agosto al 11 de septiembre de 2020, con envíos semanales, con muestreo porconveniencia. Los datos fueron sometidos a análisis descriptivo. La investigación abarcó estudiantes del primero al décimo período de la carrera de Odontología, de diferentes regiones brasileñas. Se recogieron 520 respuestas de 14 estados del país. Los estudiantes demostraron un alto nivel de conocimiento sobre el COVID-19, el 77,31 % no se sentía seguro, el 85,96 % manifestó tener miedo al futuro y el 96,15 % manifestó haber tenido pérdidas en su carrera de grado. Entre los estudiantes, el 69,56 % reportóun empeoramiento en su estado emocional, el 83,08 % se sintió más estresado, el 58,46 % dijo haber desarrollado insomnio y el 51,25 % dijo que la pandemia tuvo un efecto negativo en la economía familiar. Se concluye que los estudiantes de odontología brasileños son conscientes de la COVID-19 y la pandemia los ha afectado negativamente en los aspectos emocionales y sociales (AU).

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, remote teaching activities have been implemented as a social distancing measure. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge that Brazilian dental students have about COVID-19, as well as the possible impact of the pandemic on these students' emotional and social conditions. This is a cross-sectional study using primary-data collection by means of a structured questionnaire. The latter was open from August 11 to September 11, 2020, with weekly submissions, and with convenience sampling. Data were subjected to descriptive analysis. The research included students attending the first to the tenth period of Dentistry courses, from different Brazilian regions. A total of 520 responses were collected from 14 statesin the country. The students proved to have a high level of knowledge about COVID-19; 77.31% did not feel safe, 85.96% claimed to be afraid of the future, and 96.15% stated that their undergraduate courses went through losses. Moreover, 69.56% reported a worsening in their emotional state, 83.08% perceived themselves as being more stressed, 58.46% said they developed insomnia, and 51.25% stated that the pandemic had a negative effect on family finances. It is concluded that Brazilian dental students have knowledge about COVID-19, and the pandemic has negatively affected them in terms of emotional and social aspects (AU).

Laser acupuncture in the treatment of neuropathies in dentistry: a systematic review.

Laser acupuncture can be used to treat neurosensory alterations and motor disorders caused by dental treatments. This study aimed to review the existing literature on the effects of laser acupuncture on neuropathies in the context of dentistry and to search for treatment modalities in which this technique is used. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines and the PICOS strategy. Randomized clinical trials that evaluated laser acupuncture as a primary intervention for facial neuropathy were included. We searched the database for relevant studies and manually searched the gray literature until April 2022, and finally included four studies. The study was considered eligible if it included patients with paresthesia, facial paralysis, or neuralgia, neuropathies within dentistry, and referred to the application of laser acupuncture as a treatment method. The risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2 tool. It was observed that the recommended wavelengths ranged from 790 nm to 810 nm, with a frequency of at least two applications per week, and to a greater or lesser degree, all evaluated studies obtained an improvement in sensory or motor recovery of the facial nerves. The use of laser acupuncture presented itself as a viable alternative in dentistry for the treatment of paresthesia and facial paralysis due to its therapeutic potential in neuropathic treatment (CRD42022344339).

Effect of low-level laser stimulation of acupuncture points in pediatric dentistry: a systematic review.

The biomodulatory potential of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has prompted investigations of different outcomes in health. One line of research is the stimulation of acupuncture points for the relief of different signs and symptoms related to the stomatognathic system. In dentistry, some studies in pediatric dentistry have demonstrated the benefit of LLLT therapies in the management of dental anxiety in children. This systematic review aimed to analyze previous clinical studies on the application of LLLT at acupoints among pediatric dental patients. This systematic review was conducted according to the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines and the population, intervention, comparison, and outcome strategy. A broad literature search up to June 17, 2022, was performed using four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar). The risk of bias in randomized clinical trials was assessed using the RoB 2 tool. A total of four studies using LLLT for photobiomodulation were included (n = 4). The most common wavelengths used were in the infrared range (variation between 716 nm and 980 nm). There were little variations in the application time (14 s to 1 min) and exposure dose (1 to 5 joules). LLLT acted positively on different acupuncture points. LLLT provided various benefits and optimized dental practice by reducing the gag reflex during radiography and impression taking, preanesthetic pain, and symptoms of sleep bruxism in the pediatric dental population. Only one of the evaluated studies had a high risk of bias. The LLLT at acupuncture points is associated with positive results on sleep bruxism, preanesthetic pain, and gag reflex in pediatric dentistry. Future research studies should prioritize standardization of the study design and the methods of analysis.

Auriculotherapy in a patient with Arnold Chiari malformation type II: Case report.

AIMS: Auriculotherapy is a therapeutic method of traditional Chinese Medicine in which a stimulus is exerted on the ear and activates energy channels throughout the body, helping to control anxiety, stress, pain, inflammation, illnesses chronic, and possibly can be used in patient with Arnold Chiari Malformation type II who have painful symptoms that are difficult to resolve. Thus, the aim of this article is to present a case in a patient with Chiari Malformation II where auriculotherapy and effect of laser therapy were performed, to relieve symptoms of agitation, anxiety and healing of self-mutilation injuries. CASE REPORT: Data from medical records were used to collect medical and dental history, complaints and treatments performed. Eight sessions of auriculotherapy and one of laser therapy were carried out in order to heal the lesions. The patient presented lower levels of anxiety, agitation and ceased the habit of self-mutilation and, consequently, the pain. CONCLUSIONS: The use of auriculotherapy led to a considerable improvement in the patient's painful condition and reduced anxiety, also benefiting the interaction with her family members and laser therapy promoted wound healing.

Effect of Acupressure on Dental Anxiety in Children: a Pilot Study for a Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: Anxiety is an important problem in children in dental clinics. Acupressure may be a useful tool to assist in dental procedures in anxious children. Objectives: This pilot study was performed to examine the effects of acupressure on dental anxiety in children undergoing restorative procedures. Methods: Fourteen children aged 7-10 years and with at least one primary molar with caries on the dentine were included in the study. The participants also needed to score at least one point on the modified Venham Picture Test (VPTm) for the determination of anxiety. The children were randomly allocated to two groups: group A - non-documented points for the reduction of anxiety and induction of relaxation; group B - documented points (EX-HN3, Shen Men of auricular acupuncture). The anxiety scale was administered on three occasions: prior to the application of acupressure; immediately after sitting in the dental chair to undergo restorative treatment; and after removal of acupressure at the end of the restorative procedure. Heart rate (HR) was measured when each child sat in the dental chair, after the removal of carious tissue, and after the removal of acupressure. Results: After the procedure, HR (as an indicator of anxiety) was statistically significantly lower in group B than group A (p = 0.02). However, there was no significant difference between the groups regarding anxiety before and during the restorative procedure (VPTm and HR: p > 0.05). Conclusion: The children who received acupressure on documented points for the reduction of anxiety had a significantly lower HR after the restorative procedure. No significant between-group difference was found regarding anxiety measured using a psychometric evaluation (VPTm).

Adhesion of a sealant with pre-reacted glass ionomer particles under salivary contamination: an in vitro study

Objective: this in vitro study compared the adhesive strengths of the resin sealant with the Giomer technology sealant under salivary contamination. Materials and Methods: fifty-two bovine incisors were randomly divided into four groups (n=13): GI, a resin sealant (Fluroshield®) without salivary contamination (control of GII); GII, Fluroshield sealant + salivary contamination; GIII, a Giomer technology sealant (BeautiSealant®) without salivary contamination (control of GIV); and GIV, BeautiSealant® sealant + salivary contamination. In the salivary contamination groups, artificial saliva was used through a pipette, and after 20 s, it was air-dried and the sealant was applied. Shear strength tests were performed using a universal testing machine. One-way ANOVA variance and Tukey's test were used for multiple comparisons. The fracture types were analyzed using a stereomicroscope with 40X magnification. Results: the means and standard deviations (SD) of adhesion for Fluroshield® and BeautiSealant® in the group without salivary contamination were 15.27 (±0.96) and 11.90 (±0.94), and for the group with salivary contamination, 13.14 (±1.03) and 8.95 (±1.33), respectively, indicating a statistically significant difference between GI and GII p=0.020, GIII and GIV p=0.041. Mixed failures were detected in GI (38%), GII (44%), GIII (38%), and GIV (62%). Conclusion: there was a statistically significant decrease in the adhesive strength values in the groups with salivary contamination for both the sealants studied. However, no significant difference was observed between the two sealants when the materials used were compared.

Objetivo: este estudo in vitro comparou as forças adesivas do selante resinoso com o selante da tecnologia Giomer sob contaminação salivar. Materiais e Métodos: cinquenta e dois incisivos bovinos foram divididos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos (n=13): GI, um selante resinoso (Fluroshield®) sem contaminação salivar (controle do GII); GII, selante Fluroshield + contaminação salivar; GIII, um selante com tecnologia Giomer (BeautiSealant®) sem contaminação salivar (controle do GIV); e GIV, selante BeautiSealant® + contaminação salivar. Nos grupos de contaminação salivar, a saliva artificial foi utilizada por meio de uma pipeta e, após 20 s, foi seca ao ar e aplicado o selante. Os testes de resistência ao cisalhamento foram realizados usando uma máquina de teste universal. A variância ANOVA de uma via e o teste de Tukey foram usados para comparações múltiplas. Os tipos de fratura foram analisados em estereomicroscópio com aumento de 40X. Resultados: as médias e desvios padrão (DP) de adesão para Fluroshield® e BeautiSealant® no grupo sem contaminação salivar foram 15,27 (±0,96) e 11,90 (±0,94), e após contaminação salivar foram 13,14 (±1,03) e 8,95 (±1,33), respectivamente, indicando haver diferença estatisticamente significante entre GI e GII p=0.020, GIII e GIV p=0.041. Falhas mistas foram detectadas em GI (38%), GII (44%), GIII (38%) e GIV (62%). Conclusão: houve diminuição estatisticamente significativa dos valores de resistência adesiva nos grupos com contaminação salivar para ambos os selantes estudados. No entanto, não foi observada diferença significativa entre os dois selantes quando comparados os materiais utilizados.

Photobiomodulation (PBMT) and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) in oral manifestations of patients infected by Sars-CoV-2: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: In 2019, a viral and respiratory pathology called COVID-19 emerged in Wuhan, China, and spread to other continents. Its main symptoms include fever, cough, dyspnea, myalgia, anorexia and respiratory distress in the most severe cases, which can lead to death. Furthermore, manifestations in the oral cavity such as ageusia and dysgeusia, as well as lesions in other regions of the oral cavity, can be observed. Main body: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to critically assess the clinical evidence on the use of photobiomodulation (PBMT) and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) for the treatment of oral lesions in patients infected with Sars-Cov-2. The literature extracted from electronic databases such as PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, and Google Scholar was screened for eligibility, and relevant articles were included. The review is limited to manuscripts published in English, Spanish and Portuguese language between December 2019 and October 2021. A total of 5 articles with 11 cases retracting PBMT and aPDT as therapeutic strategies for the regression of oral lesions and painful symptoms. The results show favoring the associated use of PBMT with aPDT (P = 0.004), and the isolated use of PBMT with the result of significant "P = 0.005" and good confidence interval (7.18, 39.20) in ulcerative lesions, herpetic, aphthous, erythematous, petechiae and necrotic areas. Conclusions: PBMT and aPDT could be effective in the treatment of oral lesions of patients infected with Sars-Cov-2 in a short period of time; however, more long-term randomized clinical trials studies are needed to define the therapeutic strategy.

Knowledge, attitudes, and psychosocial impacts among Brazilian Pediatric Dentists during COVID-19 pandemic.

In this study, we evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and psychosocial impacts among Brazilian pediatric dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional study with primary data collection was carried out using an online structured questionnaire. Data were submitted to descriptive analysis by using absolute and relative frequencies. A chi-square test was used for association analysis and log-linear regression models to estimate the prevalence ratio (5%). The population comprised mostly women and knowledge regarding COVID-19 was satisfactory (above 80% in most items). N95 masks and faceshields were used, albeit 64.22% reported difficulty in providing dental care to children due to the need for extra Personal Protective Equipment. Thirty eight percent provided urgency/emergency dental care, 59.78% performed invasive procedures, 59.56% used high speed handpieces, 8.44% started using cariostatics, and 6.22% introduced the use of chemomechanical caries removal agents. Fear for the future (PR = 1.21) and use of medications (for anxiety, depression, or insomnia) increased (PR = 1.16) among the ones who had wage losses. Brazilian pediatric dentists have knowledge about COVID-19, and attitudes in their clinical routines changed due the pandemic. Financial life was harmed and a negative impact of the pandemic in psychosocial aspects of workers was found.

Photobiomodulation impacts the levels of inflammatory mediators during orthodontic tooth movement? A systematic review with meta-analysis.

During orthodontic tooth movement (OTM), there is the release of cytokines in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) that are supposed to participate in the bone remodeling. This systematic review aimed at assessing the effects of photobiomodulation (PBM) on the levels of these cytokines during OTM. This systematic review according to Cochrane Collaboration guidelines aimed to answer the clinical question following the PICOS strategy. The broad search in the literature was performed before 05 April, 2021 in six electronic databases (Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde) and supplemented by the grey literature. The risk of bias of randomized and non-randomized clinical trials was evaluated by two tools: RoB 2 and ROBINS-I. Mean and standard deviation of cytokine levels was extracted to meta-analysis, and the GRADE system was applied to assess the quality of the evidence. Nine studies were included in this review. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) was the photobiomodulation type used in most of the studies (n = 8). The wavelengths used varied from 618 to 980 nm and also differed concerning the light emission pattern. LLLT increased the levels of IL-1ß, IL-8, OPN, and PGE2, but not TNF-α1, TGF-ß1. The levels of IL6, RANKL, and OPG presented conflicting results. LLLT was statistically associated with an increase of IL-1ß levels (standard mean difference [SMD] = 1.99; 95% confidence interval = 0.66 to 3.33; p < 0.001) with low certainty of evidence. LLLT may increase the levels of IL-1ß and other cytokines; however, the results should be interpreted with caution due to protocol variations between studies, and the few studies added in the meta-analysis.

Influência do autocuidado utilizando as práticas integrativas e complementares durante a pandemia da COVID-19 em crianças e adolescentes de 4 a 13 anos com bruxismo e disfunção temporomandibular / Influence of self-care using complementary and integrative therapies during the COVID-19 pandemic in children and adolescents aged 4 to 13 years with bruxism and temporomandibular disorders

O Bruxismo é um comportamento da musculatura mandibular, caracterizado pelo apertamento e/ou rangimento dental, tanto em estado de vigília quanto no sono, que pode acarretar na Disfunção Temporomandibular (DTM). Altamente prevalente em crianças e etiologia multifatorial, destacam-se os aspectos psicossociais, principalmente o estresse e ansiedade. A necessidade de distanciamento social durante a pandemia da COVID-19 trouxe consequências para as crianças e fez surgir novos formatos de ações na Odontologia. Esse estudo avaliou a influência do autocuidado nas manifestações do Bruxismo/DTM em crianças que estavam em tratamento, antes da pandemia, no Serviço de Atendimento de Bruxismo e DTM na Infância (SABDI) da FORP/USP, por meio de intervenções assistidas, implementadas remotamente, de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares (PICs). Previamente às intervenções (T0), os pais responderam o questionário (Q1) sobre a criança (no formato Google Forms, enviado por WhatsApp e e-mail). As práticas propostas foram explicadas em reuniões virtuais (Google Meet) e foram realizadas durante 21 dias, registradas em um "Diário de Controle". Um novo questionário (Q2) foi preenchido para análise comparativa após as intervenções (T1). Das 37 crianças que estavam em tratamento, a amostra final das 18 que concluíram todas as etapas propostas apresentou diferença quantitativa nos itens: "dor na boca/rosto quando mastiga"; "dor ou dificuldade de abrir e fechar a boca"; "acorda com dor no rosto ou dor de cabeça" e, "dor de cabeça durante o dia ou à noite", "range os dentes em vigília"; "frequência que range os dentes em vigília"; "range os dentes enquanto dorme" e, "frequência que range os dentes enquanto dorme", "sono agitado"; "pesadelo" e "insônia". Observou-se evidência de diferença estatística com valor P<0,05, no item "aperta os dentes em vigília" (p=0,0057). Conclui-se que as intervenções propostas influenciaram as manifestações do Bruxismo favorecendo o seu controle.

Bruxism is a behavior of the mandibular muscles, characterized by clenching and/or dental grinding, both in wakefulness and in sleep, which can lead to Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD). Highly prevalent in children and possessing a multifactorial etiology, psychosocial aspects stand out, especially stress and anxiety. The need for social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic has had consequences for children and has given rise to new formats of actions in Dentistry. This study evaluated the influence of self-care on the manifestations of Bruxism/TMD in children who were undergoing treatment, before the pandemic, Care Center for children with Bruxism and TMD, whose acronyms in Portuguese is SABDI, located in Ribeirão Preto School of Dentistry (FORP-USP), through assisted interventions, implemented remotely, of Complementary and Integrative Therapies (CIT). Prior to the interventions (T0), the parents answered the questionnaire (Q1) about the child (in Google Forms, sent by WhatsApp and e-mail). The proposed practices were explained in virtual meetings (Google Meet) and performed for 21 days and recorded in a "Control Diary". A new questionnaire (Q2) was completed for comparative analysis after the interventions (T1). Of the 37 children who were undergoing treatment, the final sample of 18 who completed all the proposed steps showed a quantitative difference in the items: "pain in the mouth/face when chewing"; "pain or difficulty opening and closing the mouth"; "waking up with pain in the face or headache" and "headache during the day or night"; "grinding teeth while awake"; "frequency grinding teeth while awake"; "grinding teeth while sleeping"; "frequency grinding teeth while sleeping"; "restless sleep"; "nightmare"; and "insomnia". Evidence of statistical difference was observed with a P value <0.05, in the item "clenches teeth while awake" (p=0.0057). It is concluded that the proposed interventions influenced the manifestations of Bruxism, favoring its control.

Knowledge, attitudes, and psychosocial impacts among Brazilian Pediatric Dentists during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract: In this study, we evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and psychosocial impacts among Brazilian pediatric dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional study with primary data collection was carried out using an online structured questionnaire. Data were submitted to descriptive analysis by using absolute and relative frequencies. A chi-square test was used for association analysis and log-linear regression models to estimate the prevalence ratio (5%). The population comprised mostly women and knowledge regarding COVID-19 was satisfactory (above 80% in most items). N95 masks and faceshields were used, albeit 64.22% reported difficulty in providing dental care to children due to the need for extra Personal Protective Equipment. Thirty eight percent provided urgency/emergency dental care, 59.78% performed invasive procedures, 59.56% used high speed handpieces, 8.44% started using cariostatics, and 6.22% introduced the use of chemomechanical caries removal agents. Fear for the future (PR = 1.21) and use of medications (for anxiety, depression, or insomnia) increased (PR = 1.16) among the ones who had wage losses. Brazilian pediatric dentists have knowledge about COVID-19, and attitudes in their clinical routines changed due the pandemic. Financial life was harmed and a negative impact of the pandemic in psychosocial aspects of workers was found.

Effect of Saliva/Blood Contamination on Enamel Bond Strength / Efeito da Contaminação de Saliva/Sangue na Força de União ao Esmalte

Abstract In the routine clinical situation, the contamination by blood and/or saliva in restorative procedures can be happen in non-cooperation of the patient in dental office. The aim of the study was to assess in vitro shear bond strength of a resin sealant associated with two types of adhesives contaminated with saliva and blood. Healthy human molars were used and the specimens and the crowns were sectioned in the bucco-lingual direction, thus obtaining two segments of similar proportions (mesial and distal), totaling 60 surfaces, and the surfaces were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 15). Group I (control) received no type of contamination and the sealant was applied. In group II, the surfaces were contaminated with 10 µl of saliva/blood and the sealant was applied. In group III, the surfaces were contaminated with 10 µl of saliva/blood and the Single Bond total-etch adhesive system was applied followed by application of sealant. In group IV, the surfaces were contaminated with 10 µl of saliva/blood and the Prime & Bond NT total-etch adhesive system was applied followed by the application of sealant. Samples were tested in the universal testing machine and the analysis of shear bond strength was performed. A difference between Group I (12.61MPa) and the other groups was found; Group II (2. 28MPa) was different than Groups III (7.07MPa) and IV (7.79MPa), but Groups III and IV were similar. The application of an adhesive system when there is contamination with saliva/blood is required prior to application of pit and fissure sealants. (AU)

Resumo Na situação clínica de rotina, a contaminação por sangue e/ou saliva em procedimentos restauradores pode ocorrer em pacientes que não colaboram no consultório odontológico. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a resistência ao cisalhamento in vitro de um selante de resina associado a dois tipos de adesivos contaminados com saliva e sangue. Foram utilizados molares humanos saudáveis e os espécimes e as coroas foram seccionados na direção bucal-lingual, obtendo assim dois segmentos de proporções semelhantes (mesial e distal), totalizando 60 superfícies, e as superfícies foram divididas aleatoriamente em 4 grupos (n = 15). O Grupo I (controle) não recebeu nenhum tipo de contaminação e o selante foi aplicado. No grupo II, as superfícies foram contaminadas com 10 µl de saliva / sangue e o selante foi aplicado. No grupo III, as superfícies foram contaminadas com 10 µl de saliva / sangue e o sistema adesivo Single-Bond foi aplicado seguindo a aplicação de selante. No grupo IV, as superfícies foram contaminadas com 10 µl de saliva / sangue e o sistema adesivo de ataque total Prime & Bond NT foi aplicado seguido da aplicação de vedante. As amostras foram testadas na máquina de ensaio universal e a análise da resistência à ligação ao cisalhamento foi realizada. Uma diferença entre o Grupo I (12,61MPa) e os outros grupos foi encontrada; O Grupo II (2,28 MPa) foi diferente dos Grupos III (7,07MPa) e IV (7,79 MPa), mas os Grupos III e IV foram semelhantes. A aplicação de um sistema adesivo quando existe contaminação com saliva / sangue é necessária antes da aplicação de selantes de fissura e fissura.

CO2 laser irradiation for debonding ceramic orthodontic brackets.

This study evaluated shear bond strength (SBS), adhesive remnant index (ARI) and fracture mode of chemically and mechanically retained ceramic brackets bonded with different composite resins and irradiated with CO2 laser. The null hypothesis was that ceramic brackets bonded with different composite resins and irradiated with CO2 laser would have similar SBS values. Ninety human premolars were divided into four experimental groups according to the combination of type of composite resin (Transbond XT and Z 250) and type of ceramic bracket (Fascination and Mystique), and two control groups (n=15). In the four experimental groups, the brackets were irradiated with CO2 laser at 10 W for 3 seconds before SBS testing. Enamel surface ARI was calculated after debonding under electron microscopy scanning. ANOVA and the Mann-Whitney test were used for statistical analysis. The laser groups had lower SBS values than the non-irradiated groups (control) (p<0.05). The mechanically retained brackets (Mystique) had the higher (p<0.05) and Z250 had the lower SBS values after CO2 laser irradiation. The groups bonded with Z250 had the highest ARI. Adhesive fractures were the most prevalent. The null hypothesis was rejected. CO2 laser decreased SBS efficiently and facilitated debonding of mechanically and chemically retained ceramic brackets.

Effect of Acid Beverage on the Microhardness of Primary Tooth Enamel In Vitro.

Purpose: To assess the effects of a soft drink, a soybean-based apple juice and strawberry juice on the superficial and deep microhardness of primary tooth enamel.
Methods: Sixty primary teeth were divided according to the beverages and a control group (artificial saliva). Immersion cycles were carried out under agitation (five minutes three times a day over 60 days). Superficial microhardness measurements were taken after seven, 15, 30, 45, and 60 days. Teeth were cut for deep microhardness evaluation. Analysis of variance and Tukey's test (95 percent confidence interval) were used for data analysis. Teeth were scanned by electron microscopy for quantitative analysis.
Results: The soybean drink led to a significant decrease in the superficial microhardness ( P <0.05) at all tested times. The decrease for the strawberry juice was steeper than for the soybean drink and the soft drink significantly decreased the superficial microhardness at all times. The soybean drink recorded lower surface deep microhardness values while the juice presented similar results to the soybean drink at a depth of up to 200 µm. There was a gradual and statistically significant increase at a depth of up to 300 µm with the soft drink. Scanning electron microscopy evaluation showed that all beverages had gradual demineralization, being evident on the 60th day; the soft drink showed the greatest overall loss of enamel.
Conclusion: All beverages affected the microhardness of primary teeth enamel. The soft drink was the most harmful to enamel among the assessed beverages.

CO2 laser irradiation for debonding ceramic orthodontic brackets

Abstract This study evaluated shear bond strength (SBS), adhesive remnant index (ARI) and fracture mode of chemically and mechanically retained ceramic brackets bonded with different composite resins and irradiated with CO2 laser. The null hypothesis was that ceramic brackets bonded with different composite resins and irradiated with CO2 laser would have similar SBS values. Ninety human premolars were divided into four experimental groups according to the combination of type of composite resin (Transbond XT and Z 250) and type of ceramic bracket (Fascination and Mystique), and two control groups (n=15). In the four experimental groups, the brackets were irradiated with CO2 laser at 10 W for 3 seconds before SBS testing. Enamel surface ARI was calculated after debonding under electron microscopy scanning. ANOVA and the Mann-Whitney test were used for statistical analysis. The laser groups had lower SBS values than the non-irradiated groups (control) (p<0.05). The mechanically retained brackets (Mystique) had the higher (p<0.05) and Z250 had the lower SBS values after CO2 laser irradiation. The groups bonded with Z250 had the highest ARI. Adhesive fractures were the most prevalent. The null hypothesis was rejected. CO2 laser decreased SBS efficiently and facilitated debonding of mechanically and chemically retained ceramic brackets.

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a resistência de união ao cisalhamento da colagem (RCC), o índice de remanescente de adesivo (IRA) e o modo de fratura de bráquetes cerâmicos com retenção química e mecânica colados com diferentes compositos e irradiados com laser de CO2. A hipótese nula testada foi que bráquetes colados com diferentes compósitos e irradiados com laser de CO2 apresentam valores semelhantes de RCC. Noventa pré-molares humanos foram divididos em 6 grupos (n=15): 2 controles e 4 experimentais que se diferenciaram pelo tipo de bráquete ceramic (Fascination and Mystique) e pelo compósito de fixação (Transbond XT e Z 250). Nos quatro grupos experimentais, os bráquetes foram irradiados com laser de CO2 com 10W por 3 segundos anteriormente ao teste de RCC. O IRA das superficies de esmalte foram avaliados após a descolagem e submetidos a análise em microscopia electrônica de varredura (MEV). Para análise estatística foram utilizados ANOVA e o teste de mann-Whitney. Os grupos laser mostraram valores de RCC menores que os grupos não irradiados (controles) (p<0.05). Os bráquetes com retenção mecânica (Mystique) mostraram alta RCC (p<0.05) e o compósito Z 250 obteve os mais baixos valores de RCC após irradiação com laser. Os grupos colados com o compósito Z 250 apresentaram os mais altos escores do IRA. O modo de fratura mais prevalente foi a adesiva. A hipótese nula foi rejeitada. O laser de CO2 foi eficaz para diminuir os valores de RCC e facilitou a descolagem dos bráquetes cerâmicos de retenção química e mecânica

Effect of Auricular Acupuncture on the Reduction of Symptoms Related to Sleep Disorders, Anxiety and Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD).

BACKGROUND: Auricular acupuncture (AA) is a complementary/integrative therapy, and can be used as adjuvant treatment in sleep disorders, anxiety and the painful symptomatology of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). OBJECTIVE: The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effectiveness of AA in reducing the symptoms of sleep disorders, anxiety and TMDs by applying the Fletcher and Luckett, Beck-BAI and RDC/TMD questionnaires: Axis II, respectively. DESIGN: This was a nonrandomized clinical trial in which AA was administered to patients between the ages of 20 and 45 years from the School of Dentistry at Ribeirão Preto, São Paolo, Brazil, who had at least one of the following: sleep disorder, anxiety or TMD. INTERVENTION: Mustard seeds were applied to predetermined auricular acupoints including: Shen Men, neurovegetative system (sympathetic), kidney, anxiety, stomach, maxilla and mandible, liver and stress, once a week for 8 weeks. OUTCOME MEASURES: To analyze the reduction in sleep disorder symptoms, we used the Fletcher and Luckett questionnaire; for anxiety symptoms, the Beck-BAI questionnaire, and for the degree of chronic TMD pain, the RDC/TMD (Axis II) questionnaire. RESULTS: Data on sleep, anxiety and TMD disorders were analyzed via Fisher's exact, Wilcoxon and Chi-Square non-parametric tests (α = 0.05), respectively. Reduction in sleep disorder symptoms after the proposed intervention was verified, showed a statistically significant difference (P = .014). There was a reduction in mean anxiety score and a decrease in painful TMD symptoms, but no significant difference (P = .50; P = .947, respectively) before and after AA. CONCLUSION: In our study, AA was effective in reducing sleep disorder symptoms and our data suggests some relief of symptoms of anxiety and TMD pain.