Instrumentation time and effectiveness of hand and rotary files in a prototyped second mandibular primary molar: A micro-CT study.

BACKGROUND: Eccentric instruments have been proposed as more effective and less time-consuming for endodontic instrumentation. AIM: To compare biomechanical outcomes of different instrumentation systems and time undertaken for instrumentation in resin prototypes. DESIGN: Sixty standardized prototypes of mandibular second primary molars were instrumented according to the following systems: K-files, ProTaper Next (PTN), XP-endo Shaper (XPS), XP-endo Finisher (XPF), XP-Clean (XPC), and Sequence Baby File (SBF; n = 10/each). Irrigation was performed with saline with simultaneous aspiration, and time spent was recorded. The prototypes were micro-CT-scanned before and after the instrumentation, and image sets were reconstructed and registered. Non-instrumented areas, accumulated debris, removed root material volume, and canal transportation were quantified. Data were analyzed through ANOVA, the Kruskal-Wallis test, and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (α = 5%). RESULTS: K-files and SBF resulted in more instrumentation time (p < .05). SBF, XPC and PTN removed less root dentine (p < .05), but PTN left more untouched areas (p < .05). Accumulated debris were lower for XPC and SBF (p < .05). Canal transportation was similar among the groups. CONCLUSION: Rotary systems reduced instrumentation time, whereas SBF and XPC resulted in more conservative instrumentation, with less debris accumulation and non-instrumented areas. A dedicated paediatric endodontic system (SBF) outperformed eccentric instruments in terms of effectiveness.

Conservative management of a horizontal root fracture in a primary maxillary central incisor: Case report.

Dental trauma occurs frequently in toddlers and the treatment protocols vary depending on each case. Thus, clinicians must not only plan the treatment but also consider any possible sequelae and characteristics related to the child and the family. The aim of this paper was to report a case of a three-year-old boy who had a horizontal root fracture in the middle third of the primary maxillary right incisor root (tooth 51) and crown discoloration of the primary maxillary left incisor (tooth 61) which were successfully treated with conservative management. The management was established in agreement with the family and was based on active surveillance. The clinical and radiographic follow-ups showed no changes besides pulp canal calcification of the left incisor throughout the eight years of follow-up. The pulps remained normal with no pathological signs throughout their life cycle and the permanent successors erupted normally, presenting an excellent result of the non-invasive approach adopted.

Pulpectomies with Iodoform Versus Calcium Hydroxide-Based Paste: A Preliminary Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare clinical and radiographical pulpectomy outcomes in primary teeth filled with different pastes. Material and Methods: The sample included thirty-eight teeth indicated for pulpectomy due to irreversible pulp inflammation or necrosis from thirty patients (2 to 9 years old). The first appointment comprised chemomechanical preparation (2.5% sodium hypochlorite), smear layer removal (6% citric acid), intracanal dressing and temporary restoration. Seven days later, teeth were randomly assigned to filling with iodoform (IP) or calcium hydroxide with zinc oxide (CHZO) based pastes and temporarily restored. Final restoration (composite resin) occurred at the 3rd appointment. Data from baseline, 6 and 12 months were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (p≤0.05). Results: The overall frequency of success was 63.6% (n=21), with no significant difference between groups (IP=62.5% n=10; CHZO=64.7% n=11, p=0.59). Multiradicular teeth, overfilled canals and teeth whose coronal restoration have been lost were significantly associated with failure (p=0.01, p=0.04 and p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: After 12 months, both pastes showed similar outcomes and can be used as good options for pulpectomies in primary teeth. Moreover, tooth location, extent of the root canal filling, and integrity of final restoration during the follow-up influenced the outcome of pulpectomies.

Knowledge of Dentists about Hypomineralization Enamel Defects: A Cross-Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate a group of Brazilian dentists on their knowledge of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) and Hypomineralized Second Primary Molars (HSPM) related to clinical aspects, consequences, and diagnostic criteria. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional, the participants were invited by e-mail and Whatsapp® to answer a questionnaire about their knowledge of hypomineralization enamel defects (MIH/HSPM) on the Google Forms® platform. The questionnaire comprised eight questions about personal data and multiple-choice questions about their knowledge concerning clinical aspects, diagnostic criteria of MIH/HSPM and differential diagnosis through clinical images. Chi-square test was applied with the significance level set at 5%. Results: Most participants (n = 492; 91.1%) reported having knowledge about MIH/HSPM. The general dentists gave more incorrect answers (n = 40; 65.6 %;) about dental tissues affected by MIH/HSPM. Overall, 83.3% of the dentists gave the correct answer to which dentitions are associated with this condition. In addition, most dentists presented knowledge about the consequences related to possible fractures (n= 487; 90.2%) and about an increased risk of caries (n= 479; 88.9%) in the affected teeth. Regarding the differential diagnosis performed through clinical images, most participants gave incorrect answers (p≤0.001). Conclusion: The participants presented knowledge about the dentition associated with this condition and possible consequences related to the teeth affected by MIH/HSPM; however, they showed difficulties concerning clinical diagnostic criteria.

Oral manifestations arising from oral piercings: A systematic review and meta-analyses.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review of oral manifestations arising from oral piercings. STUDY DESIGN: Literature was searched through January 2022 in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Virtual Health Library, OpenGrey, and Google Scholar to address the question, "Is there an association between oral piercings and oral alterations, complications, or lesions?" Quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tools. Meta-analyses were performed, and certainty of evidence was assessed through Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). Reporting followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. RESULTS: Fifty-four studies were included, with 15 achieving good methodological quality. Periodontal and tooth damage were the most reported, followed by soft tissue/mucosal injuries, speech disorders, chewing, soft plaque, and saliva. Pain was the most reported complication, followed by infection, swelling, bleeding, inflammation, allergy, and adornment aspiration. Meta-analyses revealed that 33% of participants with piercings had gingival recession (GR) (event rate [ER] = 0.329). In participants with piercings, ER values for nonspecified dental damage (NSDD), tooth chipping, wear/abrasion, and dental fracture (DF) were 27% (ER = 0.270), 22% (ER = 0.219), 34% (ER = 0.344), and 34% (ER = 0.338), respectively. Certainty of evidence was very low. CONCLUSIONS: Alterations, complications, and lesions were associated with oral piercings and adornments, of which GR, DF, and NSDD were the most prevalent.

Desenvolvimento de ferramenta interativa auxiliar para decisão de terapiapulpar emdentes decíduos / Development of an auxiliary interactive presentation for deciding on pulp therapy in deciduous teeth

Objetivou-se desenvolver uma ferramenta interativa capaz de ajudar profissionais e graduandos de Odontologia a selecionar a terapia pulpar mais adequada para cada caso, bem como relatar a experiência dos usuários.Inicialmente, a partir deliteratura consagrada,foramestabelecidos os sinais e sintomas associados ao comprometimento pulpar de dentes decíduos para contemplar as situações clínicas possíveis, além de condições que poderiam contraindicar a realização do tratamento, como a impossibilidade de restauração. Esses dados foram utilizados para elaboração de uma apresentação de slides, em Microsoft Power Point®, em que é possível assinalar os dados colhidos na anamnesebem como as características clínicas e radiográficas do caso, e a partir da combinação de respostas, o usuário recebe a relação de procedimentos adequados. A ferramenta foi avaliada por graduandos, cirurgiões-dentistas e odontopediatras quanto ao uso, conteúdo e compreensão. Esses foram orientados a relatar suas considerações e incentivados a fazer sugestões, que foram discutidas pelos pesquisadores e, quando pertinentes, incorporadas. Ao final, a ferramenta interativa-composta por 41 slides-relaciona as respostas obtidas e informa a cirurgiões-dentistase graduandos a alternativa de terapia pulpar mais adequada para dentes decíduos que apresentem inflamação pulpar reversível, irreversível ou necrose. Osusuários a descreveram como "fácil de usar", "muito boa", "uma grande ajuda", entre outrosaspectos positivos (AU).

The objective was to develop an interactive presentationable to help dentists and undergraduates to select the most appropriate pulp therapy for each case, as well as to report the users' experience.Based on the literature, the signs and symptoms associated with pulp involvement indeciduous teeth were listed to cover the possiblerelatedclinical situations. Conditions that could contraindicate treatmentwere also listed, such as the impossibility of restoration. These data were used to create a slideshow, in Microsoft Power PointTM, in which it is possible to markthe data collected in the anamnesis as well as the clinical and radiographic signsof the case. From the combination of answers, the user receives arelation ofsuitable treatment options.The productwas evaluated by undergraduates, dentists and pediatric dentists regarding use, content and understanding. Theywere instructed to report their considerations and encouraged to make suggestions, which were discussed by the researchers and, when relevant, were incorporated.Finally, the interactive presentationconsisted of 41 slides that correlatethemarked dataand inform dentists and undergraduates about the mostappropriatetreatmentoptionsfor deciduous teeth that have reversible or irreversible pulpal inflammation or necrosis. Users described the toolas "easy to use", "very good", "a great help", among others. Thus, aninstrument was developed with the aim of assisting undergraduates and dentists in the clinical decision of treatments in cases of suspected pulp involvement. This was considered a good and accessible alternative (AU).

Micro-CT evaluation of root canal preparation with rotary instrumentation on prototyped primary incisors.

This study aimed to evaluate the endodontic instrumentation outcomes with asymmetrical files compared to reciprocating and hand files (HFs) in 3D-printed prototypes of upper primary incisors using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). For this purpose, 50 prototypes were randomly divided (n = 10) according to the instrumentation technique as follows: HFs, a reciprocating file (WaveOne® Gold [WOG]), and three asymmetrical movement files: XP-Endo® Shaper (XPS), XP-Endo® Finisher (XPF), and XP Clean (XPC). The specimens were scanned and, after registration of the baseline and instrumented volumes, changes in the root canal volume (RCV), debris accumulation, removed root material volume (RRMV), non-instrumented areas, and the presence of cracks/perforations were quantified. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Student's t-test, while the effect size was calculated for statistically significant outcomes. All groups showed an increase in RCV after instrumentation (p < 0.05), but this was higher with HFs (p < 0.05). Accumulated debris was higher for WOG and XPS (p < 0.05), but WOG exhibited more in the medium and apical third areas. HFs showed the highest RRMV (p < 0.05), especially at the apical third. The non-instrumented areas were lower for HFs and XPC than for the other systems (p < 0.05). Cracks were present in a few WOG (n = 2) and HF specimens (n = 3) and in this group, one of the cracked specimens and two others showed perforations. The asymmetric systems resulted in conservative dentin removal and fewer cracks/perforations as compared to HFs and a reciprocation file in prototyped primary upper incisors. XPC showed the best compromise between RRMV and non-instrumented areas with a low accumulation of debris.

Protocolo de pulpectomia para dentes decíduos: um guia clínico e prático baseado em evidências científicas / Pulpectomy protocol for primary teeth: a clinical and practical guide based on scientific evidence

O procedimento de pulpectomia em dentes decíduos consiste na remoção total do tecido pulpar com inflamação irreversível ou com necrose, preparo químicomecânico e obturação com material reabsorvível, com o intuito de manter o dente o maior tempo possível na cavidade bucal, devolvendo função e saúde para o paciente infantil. Existem vários protocolos descritos na literatura, no entanto, não há consenso entre eles e poucos possuem acesso livre. Sendo assim, observa-se carência de um guia clínico e prático para nortear o cirurgião-dentista na realização desse procedimento durante o atendimento odontopediátrico. Portanto, o intuito deste trabalho é apresentar aos clínicos um protocolo de pulpectomia com altas frequências de sucesso clínico e radiográfico, baseado em evidências científicas, desenvolvido e aplicado pelo Grupo de Pesquisa de Endodontia em Odontopediatria da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (GEDOPED-UFRJ). O presente protocolo contempla indicações, contraindicações, tática operatória, materiais necessários e orientações para acompanhamento. Com esta publicação de maneira gratuita, de acesso livre e no idioma dominante do país, espera-se ampliar o alcance de odontopediatras e clínicos gerais que atendem crianças a um tratamento eficaz.

Pulpectomy in primary teeth consists of the complete removal of the irreversibly affected pulp or necrotic pulp tissue, chemical-mechanical preparation of the root dentin and filling root canals with a resorbable material, to keep the tooth as long as possible in the oral cavity, restoring function and health. There are several pulpectomy protocols described in the literature, however, there is no consensus among them and only few of them are open access. Therefore, there is a lack of clinical and practical guides to the practitioner in performing this procedure during pediatric dental care. The aim of this article is to present a clinically and radiographically successful pulpectomy protocol, based on scientific evidence, developed, and applied by the Research Group on Endodontics in Pediatric Dentistry at the Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. This protocol includes indications, contraindications, operative techniques, materials, and guidelines for follow-up appointments. With this open access publication in Portuguese, we hope to disseminate an effective treatment and expand the outreach of a pulpectomy technique protocol to pediatric dentists and clinicians who treat children.

Cytocompatibility of filling pastes by primary teeth root simulating model.

Evaluate the cytocompatibility of Calen®/ZO, Calcicur®, Vitapex®, Endoflas®, and zinc oxide/eugenol-based (ZOE) root canal pastes (RCP) to human primary osteoblasts (HPO) through a simplified model for primary teeth. The model employed pipette tips filled with 0.037 g of paste, exposed to 185 µL of culture medium for 24 h (n = 6). Release of components was analysed by Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (1H-NMR). HPO were exposed to conditioned media for 24 h. Cell viability was assessed by cell density and metabolic activity, and release of interleukin 6 (IL-6), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) by immunological assay. Physicochemical properties and antimicrobial efficacy were also evaluated. 1H-NMR spectra analysis showed similarity between ZOE, Endoflas®, Calcicur®, and Vitapex® compared to Calen®/ZO and positive control, which showed distinct released components. Calen®/ZO and Calcicur® exhibited high alkaline pH in all periods and showed similar solubility. Calen®/ZO, ZOE, and Vitapex® showed similar flow rate. Calen®/ZO, Calcicur®, and Vitapex® did not exhibit antimicrobial efficacy. Calen®/ZO presented cytotoxicity (p < 0.05). Pastes did not increase IL-6 release compared to control. Apart from Vitapex®, all pastes significantly induced VEGF/bFGF release. Interactive effects among released products may affect biological response to filling pastes. Calcicur®, ZOE, Endoflas® and Calen®/ZO presented good to moderate cytocompatibility, with low impact on pro-inflammatory cytokine release and induction of growth factors of interest to tissue repair. This simplified model, specific for the evaluation of the cytocompatibility of RCPs on primary teeth, suggests how these pastes might contribute to bone repair in clinical situations of apical periodontitis in children.

Does Calcium Hydroxide Reduce Endotoxins in Infected Root Canals? Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of endotoxin reduction by comparing the number of lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) before and after the use of calcium hydroxide (Ca[OH]2) as intracanal medication (ICM). METHODS: Searches were performed up to June 2020. Clinical and experimental studies comparing the amount of LPSs before and after the use of Ca(OH)2 as ICM in infected root canals were included. Risks of bias assessment and data extraction were performed. Meta-analysis was conducted by subgrouping according to Ca(OH)2, the presence of an antimicrobial substance (AS), irrigant solution during chemomechanical preparation (CMP), and the incidence of LPS reduction. The certainty of evidence was determined by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. RESULTS: Nine studies were included in the qualitative synthesis and 7 in the meta-analysis. Three articles had low risk of bias (RB), 1 had moderate RB, 2 had high RB, and 3 "some concerns." Overall, Ca(OH)2, with or without AS, reduced mean LPSs before CMP (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -1.087 [confidence interval {CI}, -1.453 to -0.721], P < .001, I2 = 58.7%) and after CMP (SMD = -0.919 [CI, -1.156 to -0.682], P < .001, I2 = 24.7%). Considering the irrigant solutions, the overall results showed a reduction before (SMD = -1.053 [CI, -1.311 to -0.795], P < .001, I2 = 58.7%) and after CMP (SMD = -0.938 [CI, -1.147 to -0.729], P < .001, I2 = 24,6%). Analyses presented very low certainty of evidence. The incidence of LPS reduction was 98.9% and 61.7% for Ca(OH)2 with and without AS, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Ca(OH)2 reduces endotoxin levels when used as ICM but is unable to eliminate LPSs completely independent of the irrigating solution used with very low certainty of evidence.

Is there evidence for the use of lesion sterilization and tissue repair therapy in the endodontic treatment of primary teeth? A systematic review and meta-analyses.

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether lesion sterilization and tissue repair (LSTR) technique resulted in similar clinical and radiographic success outcomes as compared with pulpectomy in primary teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Randomized clinical trials comparing LSTR with pulpectomy by means of clinical and radiographic parameters were included. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane methodology and the certainty of evidence was determined by GRADE. RESULTS: Six articles were included. Conventional pulpectomy was favored with respect to radiographic success frequency in the systematic review. Four studies were included in meta-analyses. Based on the clinical results at 6 months (RR = 0.99, 95% CI, 0.94-1.04, p = 0.67; I2 = 0%), 12 months (RR = 0.97, 95% CI, 0.90-1.04, p = 0.34; I2 = 0%), and 18 months (RR = 0.89, 95% CI, 0.77-1.04, p = 0.14; I2 = 0%) and radiographic findings at 6 months (RR = 0.91, 95% CI, 0.78-1.06, p = 0.23; I2 = 9%), 12 months (RR = 0.87, 95% CI, 0.65-1.18, p = 0.38; I2 = 64%), and 18 months (RR = 0.84, 95% CI, 0.69-1.02, p = 0.08; I2 = 0%), there was no difference observed regarding success between the two treatments. The quality of evidence ranged from moderate to very low. CONCLUSIONS: No difference between the LSTR and pulpectomy approaches could be confirmed by meta-analyses. The quality of evidence according to the GRADE scheme ranged from moderate to very low. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The present meta-analyses could not demonstrate the superiority of one treatment over the other.

Mirror image: an unusual case of prolonged tooth retention in twins

Introduction: Studies of twins are important because environmental and genetic factors seem to be related to the phenotypic alterations. Objective: This paper presents a unique case of monozygotic twins with mirror image of a retained primary central incisor. Case report: Twin male brothers, 9-years-old, presented prolonged retention of the primary central upper incisor. The over-retained teeth in one twin were a mirror image of those in the other twin. The first twin presented a prolonged retention of the tooth 51 whereas the other twin presented a prolonged retention of tooth 61. After radiographic exams the over-retained teeth were extracted. Conclusion: Twins may show similarity in pattern of dental anomalies supporting the influence of genetic factors. In identical twins the location of diagnosed anomalies can be mirror imaged. This fact should lead the professional to examine the pair of twins in order to diagnose any dental anomaly that may be present.

Introdução: Estudos feitos em gêmeos são importantes porque fatores ambientais e genéticos parecem estar relacionados às alterações fenotípicas. Objetivo: Este artigo apresenta um caso raro de gêmeos monozigóticos apresentando imagem em espelho de retenção prolongada de incisivos centrais decíduos superiores homólogos. Relato do caso: Os irmãos gêmeos, com 9 anos de idade, não apresentavam história de trauma orofacial ou doença comum da infância. Após exames clínicos e radiográficos foram identificados a retenção do dente 51 no gêmeo 1 e do dente 61 no gêmeo 2. Em ambos os pacientes, os dentes 11 e o 21 estavam em erupção. O tratamento proposto foi a exodontia dos dentes decíduos com anestesia local e acompanhamento. Conclusão: Gêmeos podem apresentar semelhança no padrão de anomalias dentárias devido à influência de fatores genéticos. Adicionalmente, em gêmeos monozigóticos, a localização das anomalias diagnosticadas pode se apresentar invertidas ou imagem em espelho. Esse fato deve estimular o profissional a examinar o par de gêmeos para diagnosticar qualquer anomalia dentária que possa estar presente. O diagnóstico precoce e tratamento adequados devem ser realizados para evitar danos funcionais e estéticos em pacientes com retenções dentárias.

The effect of a chemomechanical protocol to eliminate microorganisms from pulpectomized primary teeth: three case reports

Introduction: Description of the bacterial community before and after chemomechanical preparation (CP) with the removal of a smear layer (SL) in pulpectomized primary teeth has been little reported. Objective: These case reports describe the presence of total microorganisms and Enterococcus faecalis in root canals of primary incisors before and after CP with SL removal. Case Reports: Microbiological samples were collected from the root canals of three children (3.66±0.58 years old) with necrosis (n=2) and irreversible pulpal inflammation (n=1) in maxillary primary incisors. After teeth isolation with a rubber dam and antisepsis of the operative field, the sample collections were performed with sterile absorbent paper cones before and after the CP, which included irrigation with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite followed by 6% citric acid to remove the SL. The collected samples were analysed immediately at the end of the clinical procedures. The plates were incubated anaerobically for 48 hours at 37°C. The results were expressed as colony forming units (CFU)/mL. Results: Two of the three teeth showed total microorganisms before the CP. One incisor had no microorganisms in the initial collection. No CFU was counted in the samples collected after CP. Moreover, E. faecalis was not observed any time, either before or after the CP. Conclusions: E. faecalis was not detected in any sample, yet two of the three root canals had microorganisms before CP. In cases where microorganisms were initially found, 100% elimination was observed after the applied protocol.

Introdução: A descrição da comunidade bacteriana antes e após o preparo químico-mecânico (PQM) com remoção da smear layer (SL) em dentes decíduos pulpectomizados tem sido pouco relatada. Objetivo: Esses relatos de casos descrevem a presença de microrganismos totais e Enterococcus faecalis em canais radiculares de incisivos decíduos antes e após PQM com remoção de SL. Relatos dos Casos: Amostras microbiológicas foram coletadas do canal radicular de três crianças (3,66 ± 0,58 anos) com necrose (n = 2) e inflamação pulpar irreversível (n= 1) em incisivos decíduos superiores. Após o isolamento dos dentes com dique de borracha e antissepsia do campo operatório, as coletas das amostras foram realizadas com cones de papel absorvente estéril antes e após o PQM, que incluiu irrigação com hipoclorito de sódio 2,5% seguido de ácido cítrico 6% para retirada do SL. As amostras coletadas foram analisadas imediatamente ao final dos procedimentos clínicos. As placas foram incubadas em anaerobiose durante 48 horas a 37°C. Os resultados foram expressos em unidades formadoras de colônias (UFC)/mL. Resultados: Dois dos três dentes apresentaram microrganismos totais antes do PQM. Um incisivo não apresentava microrganismos na coleta inicial. Nenhuma UFC foi contada nas amostras coletadas após o PQM. Além disso, o E. faecalis não foi observado nenhum momento, nem antes, nem depois do PQM. Conclusão: Não foi detectado E. faecalis em nenhuma amostra, porém dois dos três canais radiculares apresentavam microrganismos antes do PQM. Nos casos em que foram encontrados microrganismos inicialmente, observou-se 100% de eliminação após o protocolo aplicado.

Root canal obturation materials and filling techniques for primary teeth: In vitro evaluation in polymer-based prototyped incisors.

BACKGROUND: Achieving a void-free root canal filling is a challenge in current clinical pulpectomy practice. AIM: To compare filling effectiveness and internal voids of root filling materials and obturation techniques in resin-prototyped primary incisors by micro-CT. DESIGN: Fifty prototypes were instrumented and randomly divided (n = 10) according to the filling materials (Vitapex® , ZOE, Calcicur® , Feapex, and Calen® -ZO) and obturation technique: lentulo or pressure syringe (n = 5). The specimens were micro-CT scanned (pixel size = 7.83 µm) and reconstructed, and the total volume of filled canal (%FC) and internal voids (%IV) of the bulk filling material was calculated. Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used to detect differences and interactions among groups. RESULTS: Calen® -ZO, Vitapex® , and ZOE showed similar %FC. Calcicur® showed lower %FC compared with Calen® -ZO, Vitapex® , and ZOE (P < .05) but similar to Feapex. No statistically significant differences in %FC between lentulo or pressure syringe were disclosed. Regarding %IV, Vitapex® , and Calen® -ZO performed better with syringe, although Calcicur® was better with lentulo. The number of voids in the obturation bulk was similar among materials, but always lower (P < .05) in syringe filled specimens. CONCLUSION: Vitapex® , Calen® -ZO, and ZOE outperformed Calcicur® and Feapex in %FC and if the syringe technique is used, %IV of the obturation bulk and presence of defects was lower.

Reliability of Two Methods of Evaluation of the Apical Limit of Obturation of Root Canals of Primary Teeth: A Pilot Study

Abstract Objective: To verify the concordance in the evaluation of the apical limit of obturation (ALO) in filled root canals of primary teeth between digital and visual methods. Material and Methods: Twenty periapical radiographs of endodontically treated primary teeth were digitalized and evaluated by an endodontics specialist (E1), a PhD pediatric dentist (E2), and a MSc general dentist (E3). Calibrated evaluators (Kappa = 1.00) analysed the images in a light-isolated environment two times (D1 and D2) with a one-week interval between evaluations. ALO scores were categorized as overfilled, flush-filled and underfilled. Results: The intra-rater reliability between methods was 0.82 (D1) and 0.75 (D2) for E1, 0.93 (D1 and D2) for E2, and 0.94 (D1 and D2) for E3. Inter-rater reliability ranged from 0.71 (E1 × E3) and 1.00 (E1 × E2) for the visual method to 0.76 (E1 × E3) and 0.88 (E1 × E2) for the digital method. Spearman correlation coefficients showed a similar ranking among the evaluators. There was greater disagreement among the underfilled and ideal scores. For all evaluators, the digital method favoured the identification of the ideal score. Conclusion: Both methods are suitable for the determination of the ALO of filled primary teeth and can be used in clinical practice.

Are Behavior Rating Scales Able to Identify Behavioral Changes in Preschool Children Undergoing a Dental Intervention? A Systematic Review

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the scientific evidence concerning the behavior rating scales efficiency to identify behavioral changes in preschool children undergoing dental treatment, through a systematic review. Material and Methods: MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, BVS databases and grey literature were searched. Also, a hand search of the included studies reference lists was conducted. Studies that evaluated healthy preschoolers' behavior before and after invasive dental treatments to observe behavioral changes were included. Two independent reviewers selected studies, extracted data and analyzed the risk of bias with a tool for before-and-after studies. The certainty of the evidence was evaluated with the GRADE approach. Results: Three studies were included. The Frankl Scale and North Carolina Behavior Scale were used in these studies. Both scales were able to identify behavioral changes in preschool children undergoing a dental intervention, although two of these included studies were considered fair with a high risk of bias, and one considered good with a low risk of bias. Conclusion: Although Frankl and North Carolina behavior scales were able to identify changes in the children`s behavior during dental treatment, these findings are not supported by strong evidence. Thus, further well-designed studies are needed to confirm this evidence.

Iodoform Vs Calcium Hydroxide/Zinc Oxide based pastes: 12-month findings of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study evaluated clinical and radiographic twelve-month outcomes of root canal treatments (CT) with smear layer removal, performed in primary teeth, using two different root canal filling materials. Pulpectomy was performed on 27 primary teeth with necrosis or irreversible pulpitis, caused by dental caries or trauma, in 23 children (2-7 years old). A single trained operator performed the CT in a single visit in cases without periapical or interradicular radiolucency (PIR) or in multiple visits in cases with PIR. Participants were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, and randomly allocated into two groups: Group 1 (G1) - iodoform paste (iodoform + camphorated parachlorophenol + ointment comprising prednisolone acetate 5.0 mg and rifamycin 1.5 mg); Group 2 (G2) - Calen®/ZO paste. Treated teeth were restored with composite resin immediately after the root canal filling. The outcomes were evaluated clinically and radiographically according to specific criteria. Two blinded and standardized evaluators assessed the radiographic outcomes. We used descriptive analyses due to the small sample size. CTs were performed due to caries lesions in 70.4% of the cases and due to trauma in 29.6%. Only one tooth of G1 was unsuccessful; hence, pulpectomy performance in both groups was not influenced by the filling material, nor by any other analyzed variable. The level of the root canal filling was better in the Calen®/ZO group. The clinical and radiographic twelve-month outcomes indicated successful treatment, independently of the root filling material used.

Reciprocating instrumentation in a maxillary primary central incisor: A protocol tested in a 3D printed prototype.

BACKGROUND: Efficient endodontic instrumentation of primary teeth is a challenge for paediatric dentists. AIM: To evaluate biomechanical outcomes of endodontic instrumentation with a reciprocating system in a polymer-prototyped primary maxillary central incisor. DESIGN: The specimen was systematically instrumented and micro-CT scanned before and after each file. The amount of debris, percentage of non-instrumented areas, removed dentin volume, and lower dentin thickness at specific points along the root canal were analyzed. RESULTS: A 10% increase in removed dentin volume was observed when R40 was compared to R25 (14.5% vs 4.2%). When comparing R50 with R40, this increase was only 3.4% (17.9% vs 14.5%). In the root cervical third, there was substantial reduction in dentin thickness with R50 (48.8%), followed by R40 (39.5%) and R25 (18.6%). There was no difference between R25 and R40 in the removal of dentin at the apical third (15.8%), while R50 resulted in 39.8% reduction in dentin thickness. Percentage of non-instrumented areas were the same for all files. Accumulated debris with R40 and R50 was the same (0.19 mm³) while for R25 was 0.11 mm³. CONCLUSIONS: The Reciproc® system was effective for instrumentation of a prototyped primary maxillary central incisor. The most suitable file for apical preparation was R40.

Association of parenting style with the behaviour and caries prevalence of preschool children

Objective: This study aimed to associate parenting styles (democratic,authoritarian, and permissive) with the behaviour, and prevalence of caries lesionsamong preschool children submitted to dental care. Methods: At the initialconsultation, preschool children (n = 67), from two to six years of age, wereevaluated for behaviour through the Frankl scale. The parenting styles wereinvestigated through the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire - ReducedVersion (PSDQ) and the prevalence of caries lesions through the dmft index.Sociodemographic and economic data were collected. The chi-squared test wasused for association among parenting styles, dmft index, type of behaviour(dichotomised as positive and negative), and the following independent variables:socioeconomic level, single child, school attendance, and educational level of theperson in charge. ANOVA followed by the Tukey test were used to compare themean dmft and parenting styles. Results: The majority of preschoolers presentedpositive behaviour (83.6%), and the dmft mean was 4.76 (± 3.43). Of the total,49.3% were democratic, 44.8% were permissive, and 6% were authoritarian. Therewas no association between parenting styles and all variables investigated (p >0.05). Conclusion: Considering the results, it can be observed that there was noassociation among parenting styles, caries prevalence, and behaviour of thepreschool children in an initial dental consultation.

Objetivo: Objetivou-se associar os estilos parentais (democrático, autoritário epermissivo) com o comportamento e a prevalência de lesões de cárie de pré-escolaressubmetidos ao atendimento odontológico. Métodos: Em consulta inicial, pré-escolares(n = 67), de 2 a 6 anos de idade, foram avaliados quanto ao comportamento, atravésda escala de Frankl. Os estilos parentais de seus responsáveis foram averiguadosatravés do Questionário de Estilos e Dimensões Parentais ­ Versão Reduzida (PSDQ)e a prevalência de lesões de cárie através do índice ceod. Foram coletados dadossociodemográficos e econômicos. Utilizou-se o teste do Qui-quadrado para associaçãoentre os estilos parentais, o índice ceod, tipo de comportamento (dicotomizado empositivo e negativo) e as variáveis independentes: nível socioeconômico, ser filhoúnico, frequentar escola e nível educacional do responsável. ANOVA seguido de Tukeyfoi utilizado para comparar as médias ceod e os estilos parentais. Resultados: Amaioria dos pré-escolares apresentaram comportamento positivo (83,6%) e a médiado ceo-d da população estudada foi 4,76 (± 3,43). Do total dos responsáveis, 49,3%eram democráticos, 44,8% permissivos e 6% autoritários. Não houve associaçãoentre os estilos parentais e todas as variáveis investigadas (p > 0,05). Conclusão:Diante dos resultados, pode-se observar que não houve associação entre os estilosparentais avaliados, prevalência de cárie e comportamento dos pré-escolares emconsulta odontológica inicial.

Iodoform Vs Calcium Hydroxide/Zinc Oxide based pastes: 12-month findings of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract This study evaluated clinical and radiographic twelve-month outcomes of root canal treatments (CT) with smear layer removal, performed in primary teeth, using two different root canal filling materials. Pulpectomy was performed on 27 primary teeth with necrosis or irreversible pulpitis, caused by dental caries or trauma, in 23 children (2-7 years old). A single trained operator performed the CT in a single visit in cases without periapical or interradicular radiolucency (PIR) or in multiple visits in cases with PIR. Participants were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, and randomly allocated into two groups: Group 1 (G1) - iodoform paste (iodoform + camphorated parachlorophenol + ointment comprising prednisolone acetate 5.0 mg and rifamycin 1.5 mg); Group 2 (G2) - Calen®/ZO paste. Treated teeth were restored with composite resin immediately after the root canal filling. The outcomes were evaluated clinically and radiographically according to specific criteria. Two blinded and standardized evaluators assessed the radiographic outcomes. We used descriptive analyses due to the small sample size. CTs were performed due to caries lesions in 70.4% of the cases and due to trauma in 29.6%. Only one tooth of G1 was unsuccessful; hence, pulpectomy performance in both groups was not influenced by the filling material, nor by any other analyzed variable. The level of the root canal filling was better in the Calen®/ZO group. The clinical and radiographic twelve-month outcomes indicated successful treatment, independently of the root filling material used.