Electromyographic Evaluation of Masticatory Muscle Activity in Individuals with and without Cleft Lip/Palate: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to systematically review and meta-analyze the electromyographic activity of masticatory muscles in cleft palate and non-cleft patients, and identify influencing factors. DESIGN: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. PATIENTS AND EXPOSURES: Patients with cleft lip/ palate. COMPARISON: Patients without CL/P. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Electrical activity of masseter and temporalis muscles at rest and during peak activation. RESULTS: After a comprehensive search in MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane's CENTRAL up to December 2022, without language or date restrictions. Eligible trials were selected based on the PECO question and assessed for bias using Cochrane's ROBINS-E tool. Eight clinical trials with 474 participants were included in the review. Then relevant data was extracted from included studies using customized forms. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed to combine the results of the studies, meta-analyses showed that CL/P patients have elevated electrical activity in the masseter (P = .01) and temporalis (P = <.01) muscles at rest compared to non-cleft control patients. During maximum bite force, cleft patients exhibited a statistically significant decrease in electrical activity in both the masseter (P = .03) and temporalis (P = <.01) muscles. CONCLUSIONS: According to our meta-analysis, cleft patients exhibited increased resting muscle activity but decreased activity during maximum bite force, indicating reduced efficiency of masticatory muscles compared to non-cleft patients. These differences can be attributed to anatomical variations, compensatory mechanisms, and previous treatments.

The effects of low-level laser therapy and photodynamic therapy on oral health of fixed orthodontics patients. A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective To investigate the effect of low-level laser and photodynamic therapy on the oral health, and periodontal tissue of fixed orthodontic patients and the effect of using photobiomodulation methods compared to routine plaque removal methods and the amount of plaque in fixed orthodontic patients. Method and materials First, the title and summary of related articles were collected by using the search strategy electronic databases PUBMED, EMBASE, Cochrane's CENTRAL, Scopus, ISI and all the articles that were published from the beginning to February 2023 were evaluated. The title, abstracts and full texts of all the relevant studies were reviewed respectively, and those meeting the criteria were entered into our study. Finally, the quality of the studies was examined and the results of the studies were pooled by means of random effects inverse variance meta-analysis. Results Eighteen randomized studies, conducted between 2015 and December 2022, were selected for meta-analysis. Five studies were conducted as split-mouth, twelve as parallel-group, and one as a cross-over design. Among the studies, five examined the effects of low-level laser therapy and twelve assessed the effects of photodynamic therapy. The meta-analysis revealed that photodynamic therapy significantly reduced probing depth compared to scaling (MD=-0.2 mm, P<0.001), though the difference does not seem to be clinically significant. But no significant differences between photodynamic therapy and scaling or low-level laser therapy and control groups in terms of plaque index, or bleeding on probing, gingival crevicular fluid volume, gingival recession, clinical attachment loss, bacterial load and concentrations of inflammatory substances across multiple follow-up periods. Conclusion Moderate evidence indicates that photodynamic therapy (PDT) is comparable to conventional methods in improving oral health, as measured by periodontal indices, inflammatory proteins, bacterial colonies, and white spot lesions, making it a suitable alternative. Limited evidence suggests low-level laser therapy (LLLT) may improve oral health, particularly addressing caries, but further research is needed.

A comparison of CAD/CAM-based fixed retainers versus conventional fixed retainers in orthodontic patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Comparing computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) fixed retainers and conventional fixed retainers for their effectiveness in orthodontic patients using systematic review and meta-analysis of literature. SEARCH METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted in MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane's CENTRAL, Google Scholar, Ovid, and LILACS up to May 2023, with no language or date restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA: Only randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that complied with PICO questions were included, and the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 (RoB 2) tool was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Using custom-piloted forms, relevant data were retrieved from the included studies. Then a random-effects inverse variance meta-analysis was used to pool the results. Primary outcomes were stability of treatment results measured through dental cast measurements and periodontal status, while secondary outcomes were failure rates and patient-reported outcomes. RESULTS: Seven RCTs with 601 participants were included in the review. In the short term (≤6 months), the meta-analysis showed no significant differences in inter-canine distance or arch length between CAD/CAM and conventional fixed retainers in mandibular retainers. However, for Little's irregularity index, single-stranded stainless-steel retainers were notably worse than Ni-Ti CAD/CAM retainers at 3 and 6 months, while multi-stranded stainless-steel retainers only diverged from CAD/CAM at the 6-month milestone, despite the overall clinical inconsequence of these changes. CAD/CAM retainers were associated with a lower plaque index than traditional retainers but no significant difference in gingival index. Failure rates did not differ significantly between CAD/CAM and other types of retainers in mandibular retainers. Nonetheless, one study had a high amount of CAD/CAM retainer failures leading to the study being stopped. CONCLUSIONS: In the short term, CAD/CAM fixed retainers show promise as an alternative to traditional retainers. They may enhance periodontal health, as indicated by lower plaque index scores than conventional retainers. However, extensive research is needed to determine the long-term durability and effectiveness of CAD/CAM retainers in orthodontic treatment, particularly regarding their failure rate. Until comprehensive evidence is available, the use of CAD/CAM retainers should be tailored for each case. REGISTRATION: The protocol for this systematic review was registered at PROSPERO with the ID CRD42023412741.

The Effects of Intrusion of Anterior Teeth by Skeletal Anchorage in Deep Bite Patients; A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Deep bite is known as one of the most common malocclusions, and its treatment and retention are often challenging. The use of mini-screws has been suggested as an ideal method for the intrusion of incisors in deep-bite patients. Still, there are conflicting reports regarding the superiority of this method compared to other common treatments. AIM: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of the intrusion of anterior teeth by skeletal anchorage in deep bite patients. METHODS: From the beginning to 15 September 2022, articles on the topic of interest were searched in electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane's CENTRAL. Additionally, a hand search for pertinent studies and a search of the grey literature were carried out. After the selection of eligible studies, data extraction was performed using piloted forms. Inverse-variance random-effects meta-analyses were used to combine the outcome measures of dental indices, skeletal cephalometric indices, and dental cephalometric indices. RESULTS: A total of 15 studies (6 RCT; 9 CCT) were included in the systematic review and 14 were used in the meta-analyses. The differences in overbite changes (MD = -0.45, p = 0.04), true incisor intrusion [u1-pp] (MD = -0.62, p = 0.003) and molar extrusion [u6-pp] (MD = -0.40, p = 0.01) were statistically significant and TADs showed better treatment results than other intrusion methods (segmented intrusion arch, utility arch, J hook headgear). No significant differences regarding overjet, molar and incisor tipping, and skeletal indices between mini-screw and other intrusion methods could be found. CONCLUSION: The use of mini-screws leads to lower overbite and higher true intrusion (about 0.45 and 0.62 mm, respectively) compared to the use of other methods for intruding upper incisors. Furthermore, the effect of TAD on extrusion of molar teeth is less (by 0.4 mm) than other methods.

Efficacy of Different Methods of Bone-Anchored Maxillary Protraction in Cleft Lip and Palate Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Bone-anchored maxillary protraction (BAMP) is an effective option for adolescent cleft patients with maxillary hypoplasia. Hence, this study was conducted to access the effectiveness of the many techniques of BAMP in cleft lip and palate patients. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Data was compiled through a global search of random and nonrandom studies that investigated the efficacy of various techniques of BAMP in cleft lip and palate patients. The searches were conducted in ISI Web of Science, EMBASE, Scopus, Medline, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from the beginning until October 12, 2021. The pertinent data of the comprised studies were extracted using predetermined extraction forms. Meta-analysis results were obtained by using inverse-variance to calculate the pooled results of the outcome measures. RESULTS: Five studies were submitted for meta-analysis. The BAMP therapeutic methods investigated in the studies were facemask attached to miniplates (FM-MP) and class III elastics attached to maxillary and mandibular miniplates (C3-IE: class III intermaxillary elastic). The mean differences of A-VRP, A-N Prep., ANB, wits, overjet, and SNA landmarks indicated posttreatment was encouraging, showing maxillary protrusion, and correction of class III malocclusion. SNB landmark showed no statistically significant alterations posttreatment. Subgroup analysis of the C3-IE and FM-MP subgroups indicated that the changes in ANB, SNA, and overjet parameters in the FM-MP subgroup were more pronounced than in the C3-IE subgroup. No statistically significant differences were found when the results of these 2-treatment method were compared, except for in the overjet subgroup. CONCLUSION: After undergoing BAMP treatment, the maxilla showed a more horizontal growth, but no changes in the vertical dimension were observed and the mandible did not rotate clockwise. In addition, using facemask-miniplates was more effective in increasing overjet compared with using class III elastics with bone anchors. In conclusion, BAMP treatment is a suitable alternative for adolescents with cleft lip and palate malformation.

Effects of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles Incorporation on Shear Bond Strength and Antibacterial Activity of an Orthodontic Composite: An In Vitro Study.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticle (NP) incorporation on shear bond strength (SBS) and antibacterial property of orthodontic composites. A total of 100 mounted premolar teeth were randomly divided into five groups. In group 1 (control), the brackets were bonded to the teeth using the GC Ortho Connect orthodontic composite, while the brackets of groups 2 to 5 were bonded by the GC Ortho Connect orthodontic composite that contained 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 4% weight percentages (w/w) of MgO NPs, respectively and then the SBS was measured. In the following, we evaluated the antibacterial properties of the MgO NP-containing composite on Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) bacteria by the direct contact test method. According to results, there were no significant changes in the SBS as the MgO NP concentration was increased up to 1%, while the SBSs of the 2% and 4% MgO NPs were decreased when compared to the other three groups. The outcomes of the direct contact test indicated the case of 1% as being the minimum ratio of MgO NPs, which almost caused the entire annihilation of the S. mutans bacteria. In conclusion, the orthodontic composite containing 1% MgO NPs can display a significant antibacterial effect against S. mutans bacteria without inducing any negative effect on the SBS.

Effect of ibuprofen and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound on the reduction of pain after initial archwire placement: a double-blind randomized clinical trial / Efecto del ibuprofeno y el ultrasonido pulsado de baja intensidad en la reducción del dolor después de la colocación inicial del arco de ortodoncia: un ensayo clínico aleatorizado doble ciego

Objective: This study aimed to compare the effect of ibuprofen and low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on the reduction of pain after the placement of initial archwire in orthodontic patients. Material and Methods: This double-blind clinical trial study was carried out on 60 female candidates for fixed orthodontic treatment referring to the Orthodontic Department of School of Dentistry in Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran, during 2015-2016. The subjects were divided into four groups of ibuprofen, LIPUS, placebo, and mock LIPUS. A questionnaire and a rectangular and flexible cubic silicone were given to each patient to record the severity of pain based on the visual analog scale at specified time points (i.e., 2 h, 6 h, at bedtime, 2nd, 3rd, and 7th days after archwire placement) when biting the silicone block with the anterior and posterior teeth and without biting at all. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used in order to compare the pain severity at different time points. Results: The comparison of pain severity at various time points showed that the highest and lowest mean scores of pain were reported at bedtime and seven days after the intervention (p<0.001). In each of the three conditions (i.e., biting the silicone block with the anterior and posterior teeth and without biting the teeth) at six time points (i.e., 2 h, 6 h, at bedtime, 2nd, 3rd, and 7th days following archwire placement), no significant difference was observed in the severity of pain (p>0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, LIPUS (with a frequency of 1 MHz and an intensity of 100 mW) and ibuprofen have no significant effects on reduction of the pain severity at different time points and various conditions in orthodontic patients.

Objetivo: Este estudio tuvo como objetivo comparar el efecto del ibuprofeno y el ultrasonido pulsado de baja intensidad (LIPUS) en la reducción del dolor después de la colocación del arco inicial en pacientes de ortodoncia. Material y Métodos: Este estudio de ensayo clínico doble ciego se llevó a cabo en 60 candidatas a tratamiento de ortodoncia fija referidas al Departamento de Ortodoncia de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Mashhad, Mashhad, Irán, durante 2015-2016. Los sujetos se dividieron en cuatro grupos: ibuprofeno, LIPUS, placebo y LIPUS simulado. Se entregó un cuestionario y un bloque de silicona cúbica rectangular y flexible a cada paciente para registrar la intensidad del dolor según la escala analógica visual en puntos de tiempo específicos (es decir, 2 h, 6 h, hora de acostarse, 2do, 3er y 7mo día después de la colocación del arco) al morder el bloque de silicona con los dientes anteriores y posteriores, y sin morder en absoluto. Se utilizó el análisis de varianza de medidas repetidas para comparar la intensidad del dolor en diferentes momentos.Resultados: La comparación de la intensidad del dolor en varios puntos de tiempo mostró que las puntuaciones medias de dolor más altas y más bajas se informaron a la hora de acostarse y siete días después de la intervención (p<0,001). En cada una de las tres condiciones (es decir, al morder el bloque de silicona con los dientes anteriores y posteriores, y sin morder) en seis momentos (2 h, 6 h, antes de acostarse 2do, 3er y 7mo día después de la colocación del arco), no se observó diferencia significativa en la severidad del dolor (p>0.05).Conclusión: En conclusión, LIPUS (con una frecuencia de 1 MHz y una intensidad de 100 mW) y el ibuprofeno no tienen efectos significativos en la reducción de la severidad del dolor en diferentes puntos de tiempo y diversas condiciones en pacientes de ortodoncia.

Introducing a User-Friendly Technique for Treatment of Palatally-Impacted Canines with the Aid of Temporary Anchorage Devices.

Treatment of impacted canine teeth is a challenge for most clinicians, especially in adult patients with high risk of ankylosis. Conventionally, leveling and alignment of the teeth are first performed and after heavy arch wire placement in slot of brackets, de-impaction force is applied. However, this method has some disadvantages, such as inability to detect ankylosis of the impacted tooth until load application, risk of root resorption of incisors or necrosis of them, distortion of dental arch form, the need for early extraction of primary canines, which is esthetically unfavorable for patients, and long-term presence of fixed orthodontic appliances in the oral cavity. This study aims to introduce approach that can be easily used by busy clinicians to guide palatally impacted canines into the dental arch using a cantilever spring supported by two palatal miniscrews prior to the initiation of fixed orthodontic treatment, and report some cases treated with this technique. This technique does not have the shortcomings of the conventional technique. In addition, the total duration of treatment, and duration of presence of orthodontic appliances in the oral cavity are shorter than the conventional technique. In addition, is less technique sensitive and do not need time complex and time consuming wire bending.

Comparison of the High Cycle Fatigue Behavior of the Orthodontic NiTi Wires: An in Vitro Study

Abstract Objective: To compare the high-cycle fatigue behavior of four commercially available NiTi orthodontic wires. Material and Methods: Twelve NiTi orthodontic wires, round, 0.016-in, three per brand, were selected and divided into four groups: G1 - Heat-activated NiTi, G2 - Superelastic NiTi, G3 - Therma-Ti, and G4 - CopperNiTi. The atomic absorption spectrometry method was used to determine the chemical composition of investigated NiTi wires. We also performed a fatigue test at three-point bending using a universal testing machine for 1000 cycles in a 35 °C water bath. For the first and thousandth cycle, the average plateau load and the plateau length were determined in the unloading area of the force versus displacement diagram. In addition, we calculated the difference between the average plateau load of the first and thousandth cycle (∆F), as well as the difference between the plateau length of both cases (∆L). Results: According to our results, there were no significant differences between the average plateau load of the first and thousandth cycles of each group (p>0.05) and in the plateau length of the first and thousandth cycles of the groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: There were no significant differences between the groups changing the superelasticity property after high-cycle fatigue.

Effect of the addition of Chitosan and TiO2nanoparticles on antibacterial properties of an orthodontic composite in fixed orthodontic treatment: a randomized clinical trial study.

Due to the existing demands for methods independent of patient co-operation in preventing and overcoming the incidence of white spot lesions (WSLs) and caries in fixed orthodontic treatments, several studies have considered the modification of orthodontic composites using antimicrobial nanomaterials. In this regard, the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of the addition of chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) and TiO2NPs onStreptococcus mutans(S. mutans) counts and the enamel mineral content in fixed orthodontic patients. A double-blind randomized clinical trial study was carried out in 24 patients (i.e., 48 upper second premolars and 48 maxillary lateral incisors) who were candidates for fixed orthodontic treatment. In the case of the control group, the bracket was bonded to the tooth with an orthodontic adhesive (Transbond XT, 3M Unitek, USA) while, in the experimental group, the bracket was bonded to the tooth with Transbond XT containing 1% chitosan NPs and 1% TiO2NPs. For the maxillary lateral incisor and upper second premolar teeth, theS. mutanscounts around the brackets were measured, through the usage of real-time PCR, at the time points of 1 day, 2 months, and 6 months after bonding the brackets to the tooth. Furthermore, the enamel mineral content measurement was also performed around the brackets at 1 day, 2 months, and 6 months after bonding the brackets to the tooth. TheS. mutanscounts were analyzed using Friedman and Mann-Whitney U tests. The Repeated measures ANOVA test and Independent samples T-test were also applied, in order to evaluate the mineral content. According to the results, there was a significant reduction in theS. mutanscounts of experimental group at the time points of 1 day, 2 months, and 6 months in both maxillary lateral incisor and upper second premolar teeth. However, we did not observe any significant differences in the control group between the reports at 1 day, 2 months, and 6 months in both maxillary lateral incisor and upper second premolar teeth. The outcomes of this study indicate that, with regard to maxillary lateral incisor teeth, there were no significant differences between the results of the experimental group and control group at the time points of 1 day, 2 months, and 6 months. Furthermore, with respect to the upper second premolar teeth, no significant differences were observed between the two groups at 1 day and 2 months; however,S. mutanscounts were significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group at the time point of 6 months. Moreover, our gathered data confirmed the absence of any significant differences between the experimental group and control group, in terms of enamel mineral content, at the time intervals of 1 day, 2 months, and 6 months. In conclusion, the incorporation of chitosan NPs and TiO2NPs in orthodontic composites induces an antibacterial property in the resultant adhesive to be used for fixed orthodontic treatment.

The effects of photobiomodulation therapy for treatment of alveolar osteitis (Dry Socket): Systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) is one of the most common complications that occur after the extraction of permanent teeth. The aim of this review was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of photobiomodulation (PBT) with other treatment methods on alveolar osteitis. METHODS AND MATERIALS: MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, Scopus and Cochrane's CENTRAL online databases were searched based on the search strategy. Also, the prominent laser journals and the references of relevant studies were hand searched for eligible studies and then the data were extracted from the retrieved studies were extracted using piloted custom forms. The data were combined and analyzed using inverse-variance random-effect meta-analysis. RESULTS: For the treatment of dry socket, pain perception based on the VAS score, PBT on average has a 3.41 higher pain level reduction compared to alveogyl which seems to be both statistically and clinically significant. In addition, based on the GRADE score, the evidence seems to be of moderate quality. Also, in the individual studies which were included in this systematic review, PBT seems to be more effective than other methods (Salicept, zinc-oxide eugenol, ozone, and photodynamic therapy) in pain reduction of patients with alveolar osteitis. CONCLUSIONS: PBT, in general, has a higher ability in decreasing pain levels for patients with alveolar osteitis (dry socket) compared to alveogyl. Therefore, PBT could be used as an appropriate method for treatment and controlling the signs of dry socket.

The Effect of Immediate Versus Delayed Addition of the Nasal Stent to the Nasoalveolar Molding Plate on Nostrils Shape and Cleft Width in Infants With Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate.

OBJECTIVE: The main aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of immediate versus delayed addition of the nasal stent to the nasoalveolar molding plate on the nose shape and alveolar cleft area in unilateral cleft lip and palate infants. METHOD: Twenty nonsyndromic newborn infants with unilateral cleft lip and palate were scanned 3 dimensionally using Proface software. In the experimental group, the nasal stent was added on the day the molding plate arrived, and in the control group when the alveolar gap reached 5 mm. Two months after adding nasal stents in each group patients' faces were scanned again and some parameters were measured. In addition, immediately after treatment, 1 month later and at the end of investigation, impressions were taken, and stone casts were scanned by cone-beam computed tomography and the alveolar gap was measured. Fisher exact test, paired t test, and ANOVA were used for data analyses. P < 0.05 was considered as significant. RESULTS: In this study, changes in the parameters showed significant differences between the case and controls for the columellar angle, nostril width on the cleft side, nostril height on the cleft side, soft tissue cleft width, and nasal surface area. However, the nostril's width and height in the noncleft side, intercommissural distance, nasal surface area on the noncleft side, nostril area between the cleft and noncleft side after treatment, and the alveolar gap did not show significant differences between the groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Early use of nasal stents showed more desirable results in decreasing the width of the nostrils and increasing its height and correcting the angle of the columella without any adverse effects on the nostrils after treatment.

Effect of micro-osteoperforation on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement-a systematic review and a meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The micro-osteoperforation can be used to increase the rate of tooth movement, simplify complex orthodontic movements, and also help adjust the anchorage but there are conflicting reports on the effectiveness and adverse effects of this intervention. OBJECTIVES: The aim of our systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of micro-osteoperforation on the rate of tooth movement in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. SEARCH METHODS: A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, ISI web of science, EMBASE, Scopus, and CENTRAL online databases for studies measuring the effects of micro-osteoperforation on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement from inception to February 2019 was performed. SELECTION CRITERIA: Based on the PICO model, human studies which evaluated the effects of MOP on the rate of tooth movement in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment were selected for this review. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: The relevant data from the eligible studies were extracted using piloted custom extraction forms. The data were combined and analysed using inverse-variance random-effect meta-analysis and the mean difference was used for comparing the outcome measures. RESULTS: Six randomized clinical trials were finally included in this meta-analysis. The rate of canine retraction per month was significantly higher in the MOP group [mean difference (MD) = 0.45 mm, 95% CI = 0.17-0.74]. These results were similar with regard to different malocclusions, the jaw on which it was performed, and MOP methods. The patients did not report any significant differences in terms of pain severity levels after MOP. With regard to the adverse effects, one study reported higher amounts of root resorption among patients undergoing MOP. CONCLUSIONS: The rate of tooth movement was increased after performing MOP but in at least one study higher root resorption was observed. Therefore, the use of MOP can be recommended after weighing the benefits and disadvantages this intervention can bring for each patient. REGISTRATION: The protocol for this review was registered via crd.york.ac.uk/prospero with the ID CRD42019115499.

Antimicrobial and physical properties of alginate impression material incorporated with silver nanoparticles.

BACKGROUND: Self-disinfecting impression materials would reduce time and energy needed for impression disinfecting process in clinic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of alginate mixed with nanosilver solution at a concentration of 500 ppm and 1000 ppm on common oral microorganisms and assess changes in working time, setting time, and surface detail reproduction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this in vitro study, three groups were assigned. The first group was alginate, the second group was alginate mixed with 500 ppm nanosilver, and the third group was alginate mixed with 1000 ppm nanosilver. Antimicrobial effect on Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans was studied using direct contact test in each group (n = 10). Working time (n = 10), setting time (n = 10), and surface detail reproduction (n = 10) were evaluated separately using the ISO 21563 protocol. Descriptive tables were used to describe the data. Kruskal-Wallis test used to determine significant differences in the number of colonies was counted in antimicrobial test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: No adverse effects observed in working time, setting time, and surface detail reproduction of alginate impressions. Alginate mixed with silver nanoparticles showed no inhibitory effect on S. aureus and C. albicans, but the number of E. coli colonies were counted in the group 1000 ppm was significantly lower than 500 ppm (P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Antimicrobial effect of alginate mixed with silver nanoparticles is not clinically indicated. Nevertheless, its physical features did not change significantly.

Comparison of the success rate of a bioactive dentin substitute with those of other root restoration materials in pulpotomy of primary teeth: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Several root canal restoration materials can be used after pulpotomy in primary teeth; however, it is unclear which is the most successful. The authors' aim in this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the radiographic and clinical failure rates of a calcium silicate-based bioactive material (Biodentine, Septodont) with those of other root restoration materials such as mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), formocresol, and ferric sulfate. TYPES OF STUDIES REVIEWED: On the basis of the determined study strategy, the authors performed a comprehensive search of the MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials online databases. The authors considered only randomized controlled trials. In the included studies, the authors compared the clinical and radiographic failure rates at different follow-up times of the pulpotomy of primary teeth with extensive caries treated by using Biodentine and other root restoration materials. RESULTS: All of the included studies had an unknown or high risk of bias. On the basis of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation scale, the quality of evidence for the comparison of MTA and Biodentine was moderate. Biodentine had a statically significantly higher radiographic failure rate than did MTA at 6 and at 9 through 12 months after pulpotomy. The authors found no substantial differences between the clinical failure rates of Biodentine and MTA and the radiographic or clinical failure rates of Biodentine and formocresol or of Biodentine and ferric sulfate. CONCLUSIONS AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: MTA has a significantly lower radiographic failure rate than does Biodentine but no difference in clinical failure rates. On the basis of this result, the dentist can weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using Biodentine, MTA, ferric sulfate, and formocresol and can make a more informed decision about using the proper root restoration material.

Comparison of self-ligating Damon3 and conventional MBT brackets regarding alignment efficiency and pain experience: A randomized clinical trial.

Background. Self-ligating brackets might be more efficient than conventional appliance systems during the initial alignment stage of orthodontic treatment due to reduced frictional resistance. This study aimed to compare the alignment efficiency and pain experience of Damon3 self-ligating and MBT pre-adjusted brackets in the initial alignment stage. Methods. In this randomized clinical trial, 30 patients aged 14‒20 years, who needed non-extraction treatment in both maxillary and mandibular arches, were randomly assigned to two groups; 15 patients were treated with MBT pre-adjusted brackets, and 15 patients received Damon3 self-ligating brackets, both with 0.022-in slots. Alginate impressions were taken at the start of treatment (T0) and four monthly visits (T1, T2, T3, and T4). Little's irregularity index (LII) was used to assess the tooth displacements. The patients rated their pain experience immediately after the insertion of the archwire, 4 hours, 24 hours, 3 days, 7 days, and at each monthly visit using a visual analog scale (VAS). Results. The rate of upper dental alignment between T0 and T4 was significantly higher with the Damon3 compared to MBT brackets (P=0.015). Although significantly more changes in the lower LII scores were observed during the first three months with the Damon3 system, the rate of improvement in the irregularity of lower teeth over the 4-month period was not significantly different between the two groups (P=0.50). The patients' pain experience was not significantly different between the bracket groups (P=0.29). Conclusion. During the four-month alignment stage, significantly more improvement in the upper dental irregularity was observed with self-ligating compared to conventional brackets. The bracket type had no effect on pain experience during the alignment stage.

The effects of photodynamic and low-level laser therapy for treatment of oral lichen planus-A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic immune-mediated disorder that inflicts oral mucosa in 0.5-2% of the population. Surgery, photodynamic therapy, laser therapy and most commonly pharmacological therapy (like corticosteroids) has been used for treating OLP. New phototherapy approaches have been shown to have positive effects on treating some oral lesions and the aim of our study was to assess the effects of different phototherapy treatments on OLP. METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive electronic search using the determined search strategy in MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL electronic databases. A hand search of the reference list of the relevant studies and related systematic reviews was also performed. RESULTS: For low-level laser therapy, before and after studies showed a significant difference in pain (MD = -4.39, CI = 95% -4.83, -3.96) and sign score (MD = -1.86, CI = 95% -2.53, -1.19) after treatment. The comparison between corticosteroid therapy and LLLT also showed a significant difference in their effects for severity (MD = 0.57, CI = 95% 0.04, 1.09), but no differences in sign (MD = 0.21, CI = 95% -0.83, 1.24)and pain (MD = -0.10, CI = 95% -0.57,0.38) score was found between these two methods. Before and after studies of photodynamic therapy did not reveal any differences in lesion size. (MD = -1.95, CI = 95% -4.39, 0.490). CONCLUSION: Low-level laser therapy seems to be a reliable alternative to corticosteroids for treating OLP without the adverse effects associated with the pharmacological method. No conclusive evidence for the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy in treating OLP lesion exists.

Histological evaluation of orthodontic tooth movement following low level laser irradiation in rabbits.

BACKGROUND: Reduction of orthodontic treatment time is a major concern for orthodontists. Low level laser therapy (LLL) has been widely used in dentistry and it has been claimed that it could stimulate bone formation. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate histological effects of LLL on alveolar bone remodeling during experimental tooth movement in rabbits. METHODS: In this experimental study which was performed in the animal lab of Mashhad Dental School in 2016 twenty pre-pubertal female albino rabbits with the mean age of 8±1 weeks were randomly assigned into two groups. All the rabbits were examined by a veterinarian, and underweight or diseased rabbits were excluded from the study. Fifty gram orthodontic force was applied via 0.014 stainless steel spring on central teeth in both groups. In the first group, low level laser KLO3 (wave length: 980 nm, Power: 80mw) was irradiated three minutes from the buccal aspect of central teeth for 21 days. In the second group, rabbits were not exposed to laser irradiation and served as our control group. After this period, the distance between mesial corners of incisors was measured blindly by a caliper calibrated as 0.1mm. All rabbits in both groups were sacrificed by vital perfusion for histological evaluation to determine the number of resorption lacuna and amount of fibrous tissue. Independent sample t-test was used to analyze the data. RESULTS: The number of resorption lacuna, the rate of tooth movement and fibrous tissue were significantly greater in the lased group (p=0.05). CONCLUSION: Low level laser irradiation could accelerate tooth movement in rabbits via increased resorptive activity in alveolar bone.

The effect of smoking on inflammatory cell infiltrate subtypes in gingival tissue of patients with chronic periodontitis.

BACKGROUND: Examinations on blood samples and gingival crevicular fluid of subjects with chronic periodontitis showed that smoking increased production of cytokines. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the expression of immune markers on mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltrate at periodontitis and healthy tissue among smoking and non-smoking subjects. METHODS: This case-control study was performed on 41 patients who referred to a clinic of periodontology at a Mashhad dental school in Iran in 2016. The participants were all of Iranian Khorasanian ethnicity with age range of 35-65 years. Gingival biopsies were obtained during routine periodontal flap procedure. Immunohistochemistry using markers of CD20, CD3, CD68, and CD45RO was carried out. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 15, using one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD test. RESULTS: Nonsmoker subjects showed significantly greater numbers of CD20+, CD68+, CD3+ cells compared to smoker subjects, both at healthy and periodontitis tissue biopsies (p<0.00), whereas there was no significant difference in terms of CD45RO (p=0.120). CONCLUSION: Cigarette smoking, results in infiltrative mononuclear chronic inflammatory cells reduction in connective periodontium.

Determination of salivary urea and uric acid of patients with halitosis.

BACKGROUND: Halitosis is the presence of unpleasant or foul smelling breath. The origin of halitosis may be related to both systemic and oral conditions, but a large percentage of cases, about 90%, is generally related to an oral cause. The aim of this study was to compare the concentration of urea and uric acid in patients with halitosis and people without halitosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this case-control study, concentration of urea and uric acid was compared between two groups: (1) persons suffering halitosis (2) control group without halitosis. Each group includes fifty patients. Unstimulated saliva was collected in both groups. Then, concentration of urea, uric acid, and creatinine was determined. The results were statistically analyzed with SPSS software version 14 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA) by t-test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Results showed that salivary urea and uric acid concentration in halitosis group were significantly greater than control group (P < 0.05). Salivary creatinine concentration in halitosis group was significantly lower compared to control group (P < 0.05). Salivary urea and uric acid concentration to creatinine ratios were higher in halitosis group than control group, and significant differences between them were existed (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: According to the results, urea and uric acid concentration show increase in patient suffering halitosis, and this increase may result in oral malodor.