Comparison of the efficiency of initial dental alignment with Invisalign® aligners changed every 7 or 14 days in mature adults: Randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the anterior crowding correction after sequential use of the first 5 aligners between two aligner exchange protocols (7 and 14 days) in mature adult patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six patients over 35 years who received orthodontic treatment with Invisalign® were randomly allocated to two different aligner replacement sequence protocols: Group 1: exchange every 7 days (n = 18); and Group 2: exchange every 14 days (n = 18). All patients were scanned with iTero Element 5D® (Align Technology) in two treatment times: at pre-treatment (T1) and after using the first five aligners (T2). Little's Irregularity Index (LII) and arch widths were evaluated with OrthoCAD software. Intra and intergroup comparisons were performed with the dependent and independent t-tests. The results were considered significant for P < .05. RESULTS: Thirty-five patients completed the study. Both groups' maxillary and mandibular Irregularity Indexesi were significantly lower at T2. There was no significant difference in inter-canine, inter-premolar, and intermolar distances. G2 (14 days) presented a greater decrease in mandibular irregularity than G1 (7 days). CONCLUSION: Both exchange protocols (7 and 14 days) effectively correct anterior crowding in the initial phase of orthodontic treatment with aligners in mature adult patients. However, the 14-day exchange protocol provided a greater correction in mandibular anterior crowding in the evaluated period than the 7-day exchange protocol.

Oral Health-Related Quality of Life among Adolescents in the First 6 Months of Fixed Orthodontic Therapy.

Clarification on disabilities that may arise during orthodontic treatment allows patients to have more realistic expectations. This prospective study assessed the impact of fixed orthodontic therapy on adolescents' quality of life over 6 months. A total of 78 adolescents aged 11-17 years were included. Quality of life was measured using the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ11-14, short form) at five moments: before treatment (T0), one week (T1), one month (T2), three months (T3), and six months (T4) after treatment initiation. Multiple and pairwise comparisons were conducted for CPQ11-14 scores (Friedman and Wilcoxon test; effect size). Changes in the quality of life were assessed as mean differences (T0-T1 and T0-T4) in total and domain scores (Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney test) (α = 5%). Significant differences were observed between T0 and T4 in the oral symptoms' domain (p < 0.001), and between T0 and T1, T2, T3, and T4 for emotional well-being (p < 0.001 for all). Significant differences in impact were also found between T0 and T2, T3, and T4 with regard to social well-being (p = 0.004, =0.049, and <0.001, respectively). Orthodontic therapy positively impacted the emotional and social aspects of adolescents' quality of life. Negative effects were primarily related to pain, mouth sores, and difficulty biting or chewing. Understanding the symptoms and feelings of orthodontic patients aids professionals in decision-making.

Comparison of maxillary transversal changes between auxiliary beta-titanium expansion arch and miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion.

OBJECTIVE(S): This study compared buccal bone thickness, dental inclinations and maxillary transverse width dimensions changes between auxiliary beta-titanium expansion arch (AEA) and miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The sample consisted of 29 patients, aged between 18 and 40 years, with transverse maxillary deficiency and treated without extractions, divided into two groups: group AEA: comprised 13 individuals (initial mean age: 29.23 ± 9.13 years) treated using auxiliary beta-titanium expansion arch; group MARPE: comprised 16 patients (initial mean age: 24.92 ± 7.60 years) treated with miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion. Buccal bone thickness, dental inclinations and transverse width dimensions (dental, nasal base and jugular) were measured in cone-bean computed tomographies at pre- and post-treatment stages. The variables were compared using the independent t-test. RESULTS: The buccal bone thickness was similar for both groups at the post-treatment stage. The second premolars were significantly more buccal inclined in the AEA group and the right maxillary first molars in the MARPE group. The intercanine and intermolar distances were statistically significantly greater in the MARPE group. Changes in dental arch transverse dimensions were significantly greater for the MARPE group. CONCLUSION: Both treatment protocols corrected the maxillary transverse discrepancy; however, MARPE provided greater correction.

Incisors' bone height and inclination changes after orthodontic treatment with a self-ligating passive system.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate changes in the alveolar buccal bone height of maxillary and mandibular incisors after orthodontic treatment with a self-ligating passive system and to assess the correlation between bone height and incisor inclination. Material and Methods: Pre (T1) and post-treatment (T2) cone-beam computed tomography images of patients treated with the Damon 3MX appliance system were measured to quantify the alveolar buccal bone height of the maxillary incisors. The incisor's inclination was measured in digital models. Paired t-test was used to evaluate the changes between T1 and T2, and Pearson's coefficient was used to test the correlation. Results: All teeth presented statistically significant alveolar buccal bone loss at T2. A statistically significant buccal inclination was observed only for the lower left lateral incisors. There was no correlation between bone height changes and incisor inclination. Conclusions: Orthodontic treatment with a self-ligating passive system showed changes in alveolar height, but these changes were not correlated with incisor inclination. Key words:Passive self-ligating brackets, orthodontics, corrective, treatment outcome, alveolar bone loss.

Inflammatory parameters and color alterations of dental bleaching in patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliance: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Many orthodontic patients request dental bleaching during orthodontic treatment to achieve a faster aesthetic resolution, however, no attention has been paid to the inflammatory processes that can occur when both therapies are indicated together. So, this clinical trial evaluated the inflammatory parameters and color alterations associated with dental bleaching in patients wearing a fixed orthodontic appliance. METHODS: Thirty individuals aged between 18 and 40 years were equally and randomly allocated into three groups: FOA (fixed orthodontic appliance), BLE (dental bleaching), and FOA + BLE (fixed orthodontic appliance + dental bleaching). The orthodontic appliances and the bleaching procedures were performed in the maxillary premolars and molars. For dental bleaching a 35% hydrogen peroxide was used. The gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and nitric oxide (NO-) levels were evaluated at different time-points. Color evaluation was performed using an Easyshade spectrophotometer at baseline (FOA, FOA + BLE, BLE), one month after (FOA + BLE) and 21 days after appliance removing (FOA + BLE and FOA groups), in each tooth bleached. The ANOVA and Tukey's tests, with a significance level of 5%, were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The GCF volume in the FOA + BLE and FOA groups significantly increased at the time points evaluated (p < 0.001); however, this did not occur in the BLE group (p > 0.05). On the other hand, NO- levels significantly decreased during dental bleaching with or without fixed orthodontic appliances (FOA + BLE and BLE groups; p < 0.05), while no significant changes were observed in the FOA group (p > 0.05). Significant changes in color were observed in the FOA + BLE and BLE groups compared to in the FOA group (p < 0.01). However, the presence of fixed orthodontic appliance (FOA + BLE) negatively affected the bleaching efficacy compared to BLE group (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Dental bleaching did not increase the inflammatory parameters in patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliance. However, in the presence of orthodontic appliances, the bleaching efficacy was lower than that of bleaching teeth without orthodontic appliances. TRIAL REGISTRATION: RBR-3sqsh8 (first trial registration: 09/07/2018).

Correlation of age and skeletal effects after miniscrew assisted rapid palatal expansion.

Background: To evaluate the skeletal and dentoalveolar effects after miniscrew assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) and their correlation with the age of the patients. Settings and sample population: Sample comprised 19 patients with maxillary atresia and posterior crossbite, treated with MARPE. Cone-beam computed tomographs (CBCT) were evaluated before and after expansion. Three patients were excluded since the midpalatal suture was not opened. Thus, 16 patients (11 female; 5 male) were evaluated, with a mean age of 24.92 years (s.d.=7.60). The time between the installation of MARPE and the second CBCT was, on average, 1.64 months (s.d.=1.12). Material and Methods: Linear and angular measurements were performed: bone thickness and level, tooth inclination, transverse dental widths, and nasal base and jugula widths. Comparison was performed with dependent t-test and correlations with Pearson coefficient. Results: MARPE was 84.2% successful. There was significant reduction in the buccal bone thickness of the first molars and an increase in the palatal bone thickness of all teeth. First molars showed significant buccal inclination. All transverse dimensions showed a significant increase. Older patients tended to show a less maxillary transverse skeletal increase. A greater maxillary transverse increase was accompanied by a greater intermolar width increase and also a greater buccal bone loss in the mesiobuccal roots of the maxillary first molars. Conclusions: MARPE corrected the maxillary atresia in adult patients, with significant transverse increases, a slight decrease in buccal bone thickness and buccal inclination of the first molars, combining skeletal and dental effects. Older patients presented less transverse skeletal increases. Key words:Palatal expansion technique, skeletal anchorage, cone-beam computed tomography.

Comparison of Gingival Recession of Mandibular Incisors of Class III Patients Immediately after Compensatory or Surgical Orthodontic Treatment.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare gingival recession in mandibular anterior teeth in patients with Class III malocclusion, immediately after compensatory or surgical orthodontic treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The sample consisted of 40 patients with Class III malocclusion, divided into two groups: Group 1 (compensatory), 20 patients treated with compensatory orthodontics, with a mean initial age of 20.26 years (standard deviation [SD] . = 7.44), mean final age of 23.07 years (SD = 7.32), and mean treatment time of 2.81 years (SD =0.84). Group 2 (surgical), who undergone orthodontic-surgical treatment, with a mean initial age of 23.08 years (SD =5.48), mean final age of 25.43 years (SD =5.12), and mean treatment time of 2.35 years (SD =1.56). Intraoral photographs taken before and after removal of the fixed orthodontic appliance were used to measure the gingival recession, from the cervical of the mandibular incisors from the most cervical point of the gingival margin to the cementoenamel junction. In the initial and final cephalograms, the position of the mandibular incisors was measured. The intergroup comparison was performed using the independent t-test. RESULTS: The results showed that there was no statistically significant difference in the gingival recession at the beginning, at the end, and of changes with treatment between the compensatory and surgical groups. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that the compensatory and surgical orthodontic treatments for Class III malocclusion showed similar results regarding the gingival recession of the mandibular incisors.

Efficacy of products for bleaching and whitening under orthodontic brackets.

INTRODUCTION: Many patients wearing orthodontic appliances request alterations in the shade of their teeth during orthodontic treatment. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of different products for bleaching and whitening under orthodontic brackets. METHODS: Seventy bovine incisors were randomly divided into five groups (n = 14): C) non-whitening toothpaste (control); WTsi) hydrated silica whitening toothpaste; WThp) 2% hydrogen peroxide whitening toothpaste; OB) in-office bleaching; and HB) at-home bleaching. Two buccal surface areas were evaluated using the Easyshade spectrophotometer: under the metal bracket (experimental) and around the bracket (control). The paired t-test, ANOVA, and Tukey tests were applied for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Intragroup comparisons showed that in groups C, WThp and HB, there were statistically significant differences in the enamel color changes (ΔEab) between under and around the bracket areas (C - under bracket = 7.97 ± 2.35, around bracket = 2.86 ± 0.81, p< 0.01; WThp - under bracket = 4.69 ± 2.98, around bracket = 2.05 ± 1.41, p< 0.01; HB - under bracket = 7.41 ± 2.89, around bracket: 9.86 ± 3.32, p= 0.02). Groups WTsi, OB and HB presented similar perception of tooth whiteness (ΔWID) between the tested areas. Intergroup comparisons demonstrated that under the bracket area, the color change (ΔEab) was similar for all groups, except WThp (C = 7.97 ± 2.35; WTsi = 8.54 ± 3.63; WThp = 4.69 ± 2.98; OB = 9.31 ± 4.32; HB = 7.41 ± 2.89; p< 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The dental color changes were effective for the products tested in groups WTsi, OB and HB in the presence of metallic orthodontic brackets.

Efficacy of products for bleaching and whitening under orthodontic brackets

ABSTRACT Introduction: Many patients wearing orthodontic appliances request alterations in the shade of their teeth during orthodontic treatment. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of different products for bleaching and whitening under orthodontic brackets. Methods: Seventy bovine incisors were randomly divided into five groups (n = 14): C) non-whitening toothpaste (control); WTsi) hydrated silica whitening toothpaste; WThp) 2% hydrogen peroxide whitening toothpaste; OB) in-office bleaching; and HB) at-home bleaching. Two buccal surface areas were evaluated using the Easyshade spectrophotometer: under the metal bracket (experimental) and around the bracket (control). The paired t-test, ANOVA, and Tukey tests were applied for statistical analysis. Results: Intragroup comparisons showed that in groups C, WThp and HB, there were statistically significant differences in the enamel color changes (ΔEab) between under and around the bracket areas (C - under bracket = 7.97 ± 2.35, around bracket = 2.86 ± 0.81, p< 0.01; WThp - under bracket = 4.69 ± 2.98, around bracket = 2.05 ± 1.41, p< 0.01; HB - under bracket = 7.41 ± 2.89, around bracket: 9.86 ± 3.32, p= 0.02). Groups WTsi, OB and HB presented similar perception of tooth whiteness (ΔWID) between the tested areas. Intergroup comparisons demonstrated that under the bracket area, the color change (ΔEab) was similar for all groups, except WThp (C = 7.97 ± 2.35; WTsi = 8.54 ± 3.63; WThp = 4.69 ± 2.98; OB = 9.31 ± 4.32; HB = 7.41 ± 2.89; p< 0.01). Conclusions: The dental color changes were effective for the products tested in groups WTsi, OB and HB in the presence of metallic orthodontic brackets.

RESUMO Introdução: Durante o tratamento ortodôntico, muitos pacientes solicitam, também, alteração na cor dos seus dentes. Objetivo: O presente estudo avaliou diferentes produtos clareadores e branqueadores, quanto à sua eficácia sob os braquetes ortodônticos. Métodos: 70 incisivos bovinos foram aleatoriamente divididos em cinco grupos (n = 14): C) dentifrício não branqueador (controle); WTsi) dentifrício branqueador com sílica hidratada; WThp) dentifrício branqueador com peróxido de hidrogênio a 2%; OB) clareamento no consultório e HB) clareamento caseiro. Usando um espectrofotômetro Easyshade, foram avaliadas duas áreas na superfície vestibular dos dentes: sob o braquete (experimental) e ao redor do braquete (controle). Para análise estatística, foram usados os testest pareado, ANOVA e Tukey. Resultados: As comparações intragrupos demonstraram que, nos grupos C, WThp e HB, ocorreram diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas alterações de cor do esmalte (ΔEab) entre as áreas sob o braquete e ao redor do braquete (C: sob o braquete = 7,97 ± 2,35, ao redor do braquete = 2,86 ± 0,81, p< 0,01; WThp: sob o braquete = 4,69 ± 2,98, ao redor do braquete = 2,05 ± 1,41, p< 0,01; HB: sob o braquete = 7,41 ± 2,89, ao redor do braquete = 9,86 ± 3,32, p= 0,02). Os grupos WTsi, OB e HB demonstraram semelhanças na percepção do clareamento (ΔWID) entre as áreas avaliadas. As comparações intergrupos demonstraram que, nas áreas sob os braquetes, as alterações de cor (ΔEab) foram semelhantes para os grupos, com exceção do WThp (C = 7,97 ± 2,35; WTsi = 8,54 ± 3,63; WThp = 4,69 ± 2,98; OB = 9,31 ± 4,32; HB = 7,41 ± 2,89; p< 0,01). Conclusões: As alterações na cor dos dentes foram efetivas para os procedimentos testados nos grupos WTsi, OB e HB na presença de braquetes metálicos ortodônticos.

Comparison of enamel surface roughness and color alteration after bracket debonding and polishing with 2 systems: A split-mouth clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: This split-mouth randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the enamel surface roughness (SR) and color alteration after bracket debonding and polishing using 2 systems. METHODS: After removal of excess adhesive using a 12-blade tungsten carbide bur on a low-speed handpiece, a randomized polishing procedure using Sof-Lex discs was applied on 1 side (n = 36) and Sof-Lex Spiral Wheels on the contralateral side (n = 36). Dental replicas were obtained with epoxy resin before bracket bonding and after tooth polishing. The SR was evaluated using a profilometer. The color was assessed using an Easyshade spectrophotometer before bracket bonding, immediately after tooth polishing, and 30 days after polishing. Two-way analysis of variance and t tests were applied for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The SR of enamel showed similar results between the polishing systems (P = 0.309) and between moments (before bracket bonding and after tooth polishing) (P = 0.317). The color change was also similar between the polishing systems (P >0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The Sof-Lex discs and Sof-Lex Spiral Wheel polishing systems used after removal of excess adhesive using a 12-blade tungsten carbide bur on a low-speed handpiece did not appear to significantly damage the enamel surface, and the color change was similar between them.

Smile attractiveness in class III patients after orthodontic camouflage or orthognathic surgery.

OBJECTIVE: The study's objective was to compare the smile attractiveness in patients with class III malocclusion treated with orthodontic camouflage or orthognathic surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The sample consisted of 30 patients with class III malocclusion treated without extractions divided into two groups, according to the treatment performed: G1, orthodontic camouflage, consisting of 15 patients (9 female; 6 male) with mean initial age of 21.26 years (SD = 7.39) and mean final age of 24.52 years (SD = 7.10). The mean treatment time was 3.26 years (SD = 1.50). G2, ortho-surgical, consisting of 15 patients (8 females; 7 males), with mean initial age of 23.12 years (SD=7.37), mean final age of 25.82 years (SD = 7.14) and mean treatment time of 2.71 years (SD = 0.90). The smile attractiveness was evaluated in black and white photographs of posed smiles taken before and after treatment, with a numerical rating scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the least attractive and 10 the greatest smile attractiveness. The smiles were evaluated in a questionnaire by 111 participants, 67 orthodontists (mean age 41.31 years, SD = 9.44) and 44 laypeople (mean age 41.41 years, SD = 14.38). Intergroup comparison was performed with independent t test. RESULTS: There was a significant improvement in the smile attractiveness with both camouflage and ortho-surgical treatments. The smile attractiveness was similar between the camouflage and surgical groups at the beginning. There was a significantly greater improvement in smile attractiveness with treatment in the surgical group than in the camouflage group, and at the end of treatment, the surgical group showed greater smile attractiveness than the camouflage group. Orthodontists considered the smiles more attractive both at the beginning and the end of treatment when compared to the assessment made by laypeople. CONCLUSION: The ortho-surgical treatment promoted a greater improvement in the smile attractiveness, and at the final stage, a greater smile attractiveness than the orthodontic camouflage. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Smile attractiveness is an important characteristic of the final result of orthodontic treatment. Knowing which treatment protocol will provide a better improvement and outcome regarding smile esthetics is essential.

Does the use of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic impact on oral hygiene habits, oral conditions, reasons to seek dental care and esthetic concerns?

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the impact of the use of face masks on oral hygiene habits; oral conditions self-perception; reasons to seek dental treatment; and esthetic concerns. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 1346 participants answered a web-based survey with questions related to the aims of the study. Descriptive statistic was performed and the responses were analyzed with chi-square test and regression analysis. RESULTS: With the use of masks, toothbrushing frequency decreased significantly, and people are significantly less concerned about oral hygiene. The number of subjects that reported to have halitosis increased significantly and this was associated with a decrease in toothbrushing frequency. The greatest complaints of subjects were teeth color and alignment. The prevalence of bruxism increased significantly. Overall, 94.1% considered that esthetics is important to seek dental care even with the use of masks, and 84.2% are maintaining usual periodic dental care. People are significantly less concerned with their smile and dental esthetics with the use of masks. CONCLUSIONS: With the use of face mask, people must be motivated regarding maintaining oral hygiene habits. Some respondents will seek dental care only when masks were no longer necessary, therefore dentists must be aware of a reduction in the volume of patients. Key words:Dental health surveys, esthetics, oral hygiene, dental care, COVID-19, behavior.

McNamara analysis cephalometric parameters in White-Brazilians, Japanese and Japanese-Brazilians with normal occlusion.

INTRODUCTION: McNamara's Jr. cephalometric analysis is a tool to diagnose dental and skeletal discrepancies and is widely used, guiding diagnosis for surgical procedures to be performed or for the use of functional devices. Few studies have shown that different ethnic groups have different cephalometric patterns. Thus, single characteristics should be respected to support the diagnosis and to help the treatment plan for different ethnic groups and their different patterns of miscegenation. OBJECTIVE: Obtain normal values for McNamara's cephalometric analysis for adolescent Japanese-Brazilian descents with normal occlusion, as well as to compare this sample with similar samples of White-Brazilian and Japanese. METHODS: Lateral headfilms from 40 White-Brazilian, 33 Japanese and 32 Japanese-Brazilian descents were selected. The three groups were composed by individuals with normal occlusion, well-balanced profiles and were separated by sex. The data were statistically analyzed with ANOVA, t-test, ANCOVA and MANCOVA tests. RESULTS: White-Brazilian males had significantly greater nasolabial angle than Japanese males. Japanese-Brazilian displayed an intermediate value between White-Brazilian and Japanese. CONCLUSION: White-Brazilian, Japanese and Japanese-Brazilian present different cephalometric characteristics of McNamara analysis. Japanese males have a significantly more acute nasolabial angle than White-Brazilian subjects.

Orthodontic Movement of Central Incisor with Previously-healed Root Fracture associated with Unerupted Canines.

Teeth with root fracture may need orthodontic treatment. This case report presents the management of unerupted canines in a patient with previously-healed/untreated horizontal root fracture in the maxillary left central incisor. The malocclusion was treated maintaining pulp vitality considering the principles to improve the eruption path of maxillary canines and move short-rooted teeth. The root-fractured tooth remained symptomless after orthodontic treatment without significant adverse effects, and stayed stable following 2-year follow-up.

Failure rates among metal brackets cured with two high-intensity LED light-curing lamps: an in vivo study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this split-mouth clinical trial was to compare bonding failure rates of metal brackets bonded with two different light-emitting diode (LED) light-curing lamps with different high-intensity power outputs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty patients were included for a total of 800 brackets that were randomly bonded (left and right sides in a 1:1 ratio) in maxillary and mandibular arches using two different LED devices. An LED of 3200 mW/cm2 and an LED of 5000 mW/cm2 were used in this split-mouth clinical trial. Bonding failures during the initial 6 months of orthodontic treatment were recorded as maxillary versus mandibular, anterior teeth versus posterior teeth, and left side versus right side. RESULTS: Five dropouts were recorded for discontinuing orthodontic treatment and 700 brackets were analysed in total. The bonding failure rates for 3200 and 5000 mW/cm2 LEDs were 6.0 and 7.4 per cent, respectively (P = 0.450), which were not statistically significantly different. There were no significant differences in bracket survival rates between the LEDs used (P = 0.866). The posterior teeth presented a higher index of bond failures (odds ratio, 3.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.68-5.87; P < 0.001). LIMITATIONS: Direct comparison was only done between two high-intensity LED lights rather than against conventionally used halogen lights. CONCLUSION: Similar bonding failures were recorded using both LED devices (3200 and 5000 mW/cm2). Significantly more bonding failures occurred in premolar teeth than in anterior teeth.

McNamara analysis cephalometric parameters in White-Brazilians, Japanese and Japanese-Brazilians with normal occlusion

ABSTRACT Introduction: McNamara's Jr. cephalometric analysis is a tool to diagnose dental and skeletal discrepancies and is widely used, guiding diagnosis for surgical procedures to be performed or for the use of functional devices. Few studies have shown that different ethnic groups have different cephalometric patterns. Thus, single characteristics should be respected to support the diagnosis and to help the treatment plan for different ethnic groups and their different patterns of miscegenation. Objective: Obtain normal values for McNamara's cephalometric analysis for adolescent Japanese-Brazilian descents with normal occlusion, as well as to compare this sample with similar samples of White-Brazilian and Japanese. Methods: Lateral headfilms from 40 White-Brazilian, 33 Japanese and 32 Japanese-Brazilian descents were selected. The three groups were composed by individuals with normal occlusion, well-balanced profiles and were separated by sex. The data were statistically analyzed with ANOVA, t-test, ANCOVA and MANCOVA tests. Results: White-Brazilian males had significantly greater nasolabial angle than Japanese males. Japanese-Brazilian displayed an intermediate value between White-Brazilian and Japanese. Conclusion: White-Brazilian, Japanese and Japanese-Brazilian present different cephalometric characteristics of McNamara analysis. Japanese males have a significantly more acute nasolabial angle than White-Brazilian subjects.

RESUMO Introdução: A análise cefalométrica de McNamara Jr. é uma ferramenta amplamente utilizada para o diagnóstico das discrepâncias dentárias e esqueléticas, principalmente porque fornece um diagnóstico que orienta os procedimentos cirúrgicos a serem realizados ou a utilização de aparelhos funcionais. Estudos têm demonstrado que diferentes grupos étnicos apresentam padrões cefalométricos distintos. Portanto, as características próprias dos indivíduos devem ser respeitadas, para suportar o diagnóstico e facilitar o plano de tratamento, entre as diferentes etnias e seus diferentes padrões de miscigenação. Objetivo: Determinar os valores médios de normalidade das grandezas cefalométricas relacionadas à análise de McNamara em jovens mestiços nipo-brasileiros, com oclusão normal, descendentes de japoneses e brasileiros, e comparar os resultados das variáveis com amostras de jovens brasileiros leucodermas e xantodermas que apresentem as mesmas características. Métodos: Foram selecionadas 40 telerradiografias de jovens leucodermas, 33 de xantodermas e 32 de nipo-brasileiros. As três amostras foram constituídas de indivíduos com oclusão normal e face bem balanceada, e foram divididas por sexo. Os dados foram estatisticamente analisados utilizando ANOVA, teste t, ANCOVA e MANOVA. Resultados: Os leucodermas apresentaram o ângulo nasolabial significativamente maior, comparados aos japoneses, no sexo masculino; enquanto os nipo-brasileiros apresentaram um valor intermediário entre os leucodermas e xantodermas. Conclusão: Os grupos de leucodermas, xantodermas e nipo-brasileiros apresentaram diferentes características cefalométricas da análise de McNamara. Os xantodermas no sexo masculino tiveram o ângulo nasolabial significativamente mais agudo, quando comparados com os leucodermas.

Effectiveness of two thermal activated orthodontic archwire sequences based on transition temperature range during alignment: A randomized non-controlled comparative study.

INTRODUCTION: It has been suggested that heat-activated NiTi archwires (HANT) speed up crowding alleviation. HANT wires are available with different austenite finish temperatures. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of two alignment sequences using thermally activated archwires with different austenite activation temperatures for the correction of mandibular anterior crowding. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The following NiTi archwire sequence was used for both groups: 0.012 in (conventional NiTi), 0.018 in (heat-activated NiTi archwires), 0.016×0.022 in (heat-activated NiTi archwires) and 0.019×0.025 in (conventional NiTi). The conventional NiTi used for both groups belongs to the same commercial brand. Two different austenite activation temperatures (35°C and 37°C) were used for the heat-activated archwires. The primary outcome was the degree of crowding correction measured on study models. The secondary outcome was crowding survival time over a six-month period. This RTC included fifty-four patients that were randomly allocated to the two different archwire sequences. A Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the groups regarding crowding alleviation. A survival curve was created using the Kaplan-Meier method to illustrate the reduction of crowding over time. A Mantel-Cox log-rank test was used to compare survival times (until correction of crowding). RESULTS: No differences in crowding alleviation were identified between both groups (log-rank test; P=0.77). CONCLUSIONS: The two alignment sequences with different thermal activated archwires at 35°C and 37°C achieved similar clinical results during the correction of mandibular anterior crowding.

The Use of Facemasks During the COVID-19 Pandemic by the Brazilian Population.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of facemasks by the Brazilian population during the COVID-19 pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 1277 participants who answered a web-based open survey with questions about the use of facemasks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Descriptive statistics with percentages was performed, and the responses were analyzed with chi-square and independent t-tests. RESULTS: A total of 1277 answered the questionnaire, and most participants were female (81.8%). Almost all the participants (99.1%) reported wearing facemasks, and 34.2% are wearing just because it is mandatory; 65.8% would continue to wear masks even if it was not mandatory. Most subjects (50.4%) believe that masks' use effectively prevents infection by the novel coronavirus. Reusable fabric facemasks are the most used by the participants (49.5%). Almost all subjects were wearing masks to go to crowded and public places. Most respondents (67.3%) are bothered with the use of facemasks, and the most cited reason for the discomfort was feeling trapped or suffocated (58.9%). DISCUSSION: The use of facemasks can help prevent the COVID-19, but it is most effective at reducing the spread of the virus when the general population's compliance is high. Some factors that limit the population's compliance with the use of masks are discomfort and a sense of embarrassment. Media campaigns and public health promotion activities supported by governmental agencies can increase the use of facemasks by the population. CONCLUSION: The mean level of anxiety with the COVID-19 pandemic was 6.18. Almost all the participants were wearing facemasks, and they believe that its use effectively prevents infection by the novel coronavirus. Reusable fabric facemasks are the most used by the participants. Almost all subjects were wearing masks to go to crowded and public places. The great majority of the participants feel more protected with the use of facemasks.

Coated nickel titanium archwires and their uncoated counterparts: In-vitro contemporary comparison of unloading forces.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the unloading forces between aesthetic nickel titanium (NiTi) wires coated with rhodium and epoxy resin, as well as their uncoated equivalents. Additionally, intragroup comparisons between the different deactivation forces were evaluated, and the inner alloy cores were determined. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-four 0.018" NiTi wire segments were equally divided into 4 groups: E- NiTi coated with epoxy resin, C- NiTi uncoated, R- heat-activated NiTi coated with rhodium, and T- heat-activated NiTi uncoated. The unloading values were recorded at 0.5, 1, 2, and 3mm using a 3-point bending test, according to the method in ISO Standard 15.841. Cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy was used to assess the inner alloy core thickness of the wires. RESULTS: The intergroup comparison was successively: at 0.5mm: E (1.21)>C (0.60)=R (0.63)=T (0.58); at 1mm: E (1.30)=C (1.23)>R (0.91)=T (0.80); at 2mm:C (1.93)>E (1.36)=R (1.20) and R (1.20)=T (1.00) and E (1.36)>T (1.00); at 3mm:C (2.44)>R (2.02)>E (1.62)=T (1.68). The intragroup comparisons showed for all groups that the forces were statistically higher at 3mm than the other deactivations (p<0.01). Group E presented a reduced inner alloy core (.0155). CONCLUSION: The unloading forces demonstrated variability between the wires tested and between the different deactivations. Therefore, depending on the type of movement required and the periodontal conditions, orthodontists should pay attention during archwire selection.

Comparison of gingival display in smile attractiveness among restorative dentists, orthodontists, prosthodontists, periodontists, and laypeople.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Multidisciplinary treatment needs a common goal, and dentists should understand the esthetic perception of laypeople and the other specialists involved. Such information is sparse. PURPOSE: The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to compare the influence of gingival display on perceived smile esthetics among restorative dentists, orthodontists, prosthodontists, periodontists, and laypeople. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Photographs of the smiles of 2 volunteers (1 female and 1 male) were manipulated on a computer to produce gingival exposure of 1, 3, and 5 mm and central incisor coverage of 3 and 5 mm. The images were evaluated by using a 100-mm visual analog scale by 155 raters divided into 5 groups (restorative dentists, orthodontists, prosthodontists, periodontists, and laypeople). RESULTS: The dental specialists, mainly orthodontists and periodontists, were more sensitive about alterations in gingival display than the laypeople. For the female smile, higher mean scores were attributed to 1 mm of gingival exposure by all groups of raters. For the male smile, 3 mm of central incisor coverage received higher mean scores, except for the laypeople, who considered gingival display of 1 mm to be more attractive. For both smiles, 5 mm of gingival display was judged to be the least attractive. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the differences in opinion between dental specialists and laypeople and the acceptable variations in gingival display, the preferences of patients should be considered in the diagnosis and treatment decision-making process.