Can non-carious cervical lesions depth affect clinical response in pain intensity and remaining dentin thickness?

Non-carious Cervical Lesions (NCCL) are dental tissue defects, non-related to caries, frequently observed in the dental practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of NCCL on dentin depth and thickness and the response to dental pain by means of clinical diagnostic tests. 86 teeth from 14 patients with NCCL were assessed by: depth of NCCL, clinical tests (evaporative stimulus, to detect pain levels of dentin hypersensitivity, cold thermal test to classify pulp health, percussive stimuli to evaluate the periradicular tissues and cone beam computed tomography (tomography to evaluate remaining dentin thickness (RDT). In terms of depth, the sample was divided into two groups: G1- teeth with NCCLs ≤1.0mm and G2- teeth with NCCLs between 1.1-2.0 mm. Dental pain data were compared by Mann-Whitney test and RDT by Student's t-test and correlations by the Pearson test (p<0.05). The depth of NCCL does not influence dental pain response to evaporative stimulus (p=0.129), cold thermal test (p = 0.125), vertical (p = 0.317) and horizontal (p = 0.119) percussion clinical diagnostic tests. However, G1 showed more RDT (p<0.001), and the correlation test showed that deeper NCCL presents smaller remaining dentin thickness (p=0.011/r=-0.273). In conclusion, tooth with NCCL up to 2mm-depth presents similar levels of pain for dentin hypersensitivity, pulp and periradicular tissue independent to NCCL depth, however, lesions with ≤1.0mm-depth showed greater RDT in tomographic findings.

Can non-carious cervical lesions depth affect clinical response in pain intensity and remaining dentin thickness?

Abstract Non-carious Cervical Lesions (NCCL) are dental tissue defects, non-related to caries, frequently observed in the dental practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of NCCL on dentin depth and thickness and the response to dental pain by means of clinical diagnostic tests. 86 teeth from 14 patients with NCCL were assessed by: depth of NCCL, clinical tests (evaporative stimulus, to detect pain levels of dentin hypersensitivity, cold thermal test to classify pulp health, percussive stimuli to evaluate the periradicular tissues and cone beam computed tomography (tomography to evaluate remaining dentin thickness (RDT). In terms of depth, the sample was divided into two groups: G1- teeth with NCCLs ≤1.0mm and G2- teeth with NCCLs between 1.1-2.0 mm. Dental pain data were compared by Mann-Whitney test and RDT by Student's t-test and correlations by the Pearson test (p<0.05). The depth of NCCL does not influence dental pain response to evaporative stimulus (p=0.129), cold thermal test (p = 0.125), vertical (p = 0.317) and horizontal (p = 0.119) percussion clinical diagnostic tests. However, G1 showed more RDT (p<0.001), and the correlation test showed that deeper NCCL presents smaller remaining dentin thickness (p=0.011/r=-0.273). In conclusion, tooth with NCCL up to 2mm-depth presents similar levels of pain for dentin hypersensitivity, pulp and periradicular tissue independent to NCCL depth, however, lesions with ≤1.0mm-depth showed greater RDT in tomographic findings.

Resumo Lesões Cervicais Não Cariosas (LCNC) são defeitos do tecido dentário, não relacionados à cárie, frequentemente observados na prática odontológica. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da profundidade e espessura da dentina de LCNC na resposta à dor dentária por meio de testes de diagnóstico clínico. 86 dentes de 14 pacientes com LCNC foram avaliados por: profundidade da LCNC, testes clínicos (estímulo evaporativo, para detectar níveis de dor de hipersensibilidade dentinária, teste térmico frio para classificar a saúde pulpar, estímulos percussivos para avaliação do tecido perirradicular e tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico (TCFC), para avaliação da espessura de dentina remanescente (EDR). Em termos de profundidade, a amostra foi dividida em dois grupos: G1- dentes com LCNCs ≤1,0mm e G2- dentes com LCNCs entre 1,1-2,0 mm. Os dados de dor dentária foram comparados pelo teste de Mann-Whitney e a EDR pelo teste t-Student e correlações pelo teste de Pearson (p <0,05). A profundidade da LCNC não influencia a resposta da dor dentária ao estímulo evaporativo (p = 0,129, teste térmico frio (p = 0,125), teste diagnóstico clínico de percussão vertical (p = 0,317) e horizontal (p = 0,119), porém o G1 apresentou maior EDR (p <0,001) e o teste de correlação mostrou que LCNC mais profunda apresenta menor EDR (p = 0,011 / r = -0,273). Conclusão: Dentes com LCNC de até 2mm de profundidade apresenta níveis semelhantes de dor para hipersensibilidade dentinária, pulpar e saúde perirradicular, independente da profundidade da LCNC. Entretanto, lesões com profundidade ≤1,0mmin apresentaram mais EDR nos achados tomográficos.

Powered Toothbrushes: An Opportunity for Biofilm and Gingival Inflammation Control.

The present review aimed at a broad investigation on the potential of powered as compared to manual toothbrushes in different aspects of clinical dentistry. Studies evaluating plaque and gingival inflammatory parameters were included, as well as those that investigated adverse effects. Emphasis was given separately to adults, youngsters, special-needs patients, and those under fixed orthodontic therapy. In general, comparisons favored powered toothbrushes. In summary, approximately 68% of the included studies, in terms of plaque/gingival inflammation in adults, presented better results for powered toothbrushes. In children and special-needs populations, approximately 40% of the included studies favored powered toothbrushes for plaque/gingival inflammation, and none favored manual ones. In orthodontic individuals, 50% of the studies also demonstrated a better effect of powered toothbrushes on plaque and gingival inflammation. All included studies that assessed adverse events did not demonstrate a difference in these effects when comparing manual vs. powered toothbrushes. It is concluded that the use of powered toothbrushes is an opportunity to enhance patterns of plaque control and associated gingival inflammation.

Photobiomodulation therapy and 3% potassium nitrate gel as treatment of cervical dentin hypersensitivity: a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate different protocols for dentin hypersensitivity treatment with low-power lasers and desensitizing agents, and the association between low-power lasers and desensitizing agents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-four patients (303 teeth) were randomly allocated to three groups: G1, 3% nitrate potassium gel, UltraEZ (n = 17); G2, photobiomodulation therapy (PBM) with a low-level infrared laser (n = 17), 100 mW, spot size of 0.028 cm2, and dose of 1 J per point; and G3, nitrate potassium + PBM (n = 20). Treatments were applied to the buccal cervical region at intervals of 72 h, and all protocols were performed in three sessions. The patients' response to evaporative stimuli was rated using the visual analog scale (VAS). Re-evaluations were performed immediately after each application and 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after treatment. A two-way repeated measures test and Tukey's post hoc test were used for multiple comparisons (α = 5%). RESULTS: There was a reduction in pain levels at the end of treatment in all groups. There were no significant differences in VAS score changes between the groups immediately after treatment and after the third month, compared to the baseline (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Under the limitations of this in vivo study, the proposed three-session protocol was effective in reducing dentin hypersensitivity after 3 months, regardless of the desensitization mechanism used. Conservative and long-term protocols are interesting for the control of pain caused by dentin hypersensitivity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The increase in cervical dentin hypersensitivity prevalence warrants easy-to-apply and long-lasting desensitizing protocols for pain control.

Prevalence of non-carious cervical lesions and orthodontic treatment: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to assess the distribution of non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) by tooth type, investigate the prevalence of NCCLs in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, and identify the possible associated factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 160 patients were enrolled in this retrospective study. Data on the following variables were collected from pre-and post-orthodontic treatment records: age, sex, Angle's malocclusion, facial pattern, number of activation sessions, compensatory treatment, and retreatment. Frontal, right and left lateral intraoral photographs of each patient were evaluated to identify the presence or absence of NCCLs in each tooth and assess the distribution of NCCLs in the 3840 teeth from the enrolled patients. Furthermore, patients were classified as NCCLs present, irrespective of the number of NCCLs on the teeth or NCCL absent. Bivariate and multivariate Poisson regression analyses with robust variance were used to assess the association between the NCCLs and each independent variable. Prevalence ratio and 95% confidence intervals were calculated and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The prevalence of NCCLs before and after orthodontic treatment was 22.71% and 30.91%, respectively. Premolars were the most affected teeth, followed by the first molars, canines, and incisors. After statistical analysis, age was found to be the variable factor that influenced the prevalence ratio, with NCCL being the most prevalent when orthodontic treatment was performed in adulthood. CONCLUSIONS: Premolars were most commonly affected by NCCLs. Furthermore, age seemed to contribute to the increased prevalence of NCCLs in adults undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Influence of non-carious cervical lesions, bone attachment level, and occlusal load on the stress distribution pattern in maxillary premolars: finite element analysis

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of different bone attachment levels and occlusal loads on the stress distribution pattern of maxillary premolars with or without non-carious cervical lesion (NCCL), before and after restoration with composite resin by three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis. From the healthy model, NCCL models were produced and the cavity was restored with composite resin. Models with vertical and horizontal bone loss were also made. For each model, three types of occlusal loads were simulated (100 N): vertical load (VL), buccal load (BL), and palatal load (PL). After processing the models, the data were obtained in MPa for the criteria of Maximum Principal Stress (for all structures) and Minimum Principal Stress (for cortical and medullary bones). Stress values were collected for a node on the cervical buccal surface (Maximum Principal Stress) and the buccal crestal bone (Minimum Principal Stress). As a result, the different bone attachment levels did not affect stress distribution at the amelodentinal junction. The buccal load promoted a higher concentration of compressive stress on the buccal bone surface and the palatal load resulted in greater tensile stress in the buccal cervical third of the tooth. The concentration of tensile stress in the buccal cervical third was exacerbated by the presence of NCCL and it was similar to the healthy and restored models. It can be concluded that stress concentration at the bone level does not depend on the presence or absence of NCCL and the restoration procedure but it is related to the type of occlusal load. However, the presence of NCCL promoted a higher stress concentration in the cervical region, especially when combined with oblique occlusal loads.

Influence of Tip Diameter and Light Spectrum of Curing Units on the Properties of Bulk-Fill Resin Composites.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different light-curing units (LCUs) with distinct tip diameters and light spectra for activating bulk-fill resins. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The specimens (n = 10) were made from a conventional composite (Amaris, VOCO) and bulk-fill resins (Aura Bulk Fill, SDI; Filtek One, 3M ESPE; Tetric Bulk Fill, Ivoclar Vivadent) with two diameters, 7 or 10 mm, × 2 mm thickness. Following 24 hours of specimen preparation, the degree of conversion (DC) was evaluated using the Fourier-transform infrared unit. Knoop hardness (KHN) readings were performed on the center and periphery of the specimens. Data were assessed for homoscedasticity and submitted to one-way and three-way analysis of variance followed by the Tukey's and Dunnett's tests, depending on the analysis performed (α = 0.05). RESULTS: LCUs and specimen diameter significantly affected the DC. The Tetric Bulk Fill provided increased DC results when light-cured with Valo (54.8 and 53.5%, for 7 and 10 mm, respectively) compared with Radii Xpert (52.1 and 52.9%, for 7 and 10 mm, respectively). No significant differences in KHN results were noted for the conventional resin composite (Amaris) compared with LCUs (p = 0.213) or disc diameters (p = 0.587), but the center of the specimen exhibited superior KHN (p ≤ 0.001) than the periphery. CONCLUSION: The light spectrum of the multipeak LCU (Valo) significantly increased the DC and KHN of the bulk-fill resin composite with additional initiator to camphorquinone (Tetric Bulk Fill) compared with the monowave LCU (Radii Xpert). The tip size of the LCUs influenced the performance of some of the resin composites tested.

The control of pain due to dentin hypersensitivity in individuals with molar-incisor hypomineralisation: a protocol for a randomised controlled clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is defined as high sensitivity of the vital dentin when exposed to thermal, chemical or tactile stimuli. Two mechanisms are required for the occurrence of DH: (1) the dentin must be exposed and (2) the dentinal tubules must be open and connected to the pulp. Molar-incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) is a qualitative abnormality of a genetic origin that affects tooth enamel and, in most cases, is accompanied by DH. The control of tooth sensitivity is fundamental to the successful treatment of MIH. The aim of the proposed randomised, controlled, clinical trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of different protocols for the control of DH in patients with teeth affected by MIH. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: One hundred and forty patients who meet the inclusion criteria will be allocated to four groups. Group 1 will be the control group (placebo). In Group 2, sensitive teeth will be sealed with PermaSeal (Ultradent). In Group 3, sensitive teeth will receive low-level laser (LLL, AsGaAl) at a wavelength of 780 nm (Laser XT Therapy, DMC, São Carlos, Brazil). In Group 4, sensitive teeth will be treated with both LLL and PermaSeal (Ultradent). DH will be evaluated 15 min after the application of the treatments and the patients will be reevaluated 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months after the treatments. The primary outcome of this study is change in pain/sensitivity, when evaluated through a Visual Analogue Scale, to determine the effectiveness of the proposed treatments, as well as differences among the evaluation times for each proposed treatment. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This protocol has been ethically approved by the local medical ethical committee (protocol number: 4.020.261). Results will be submitted to international peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT04407702.

Ceramic veneers on teeth with non-carious cervical lesions: case report and finite element analysis / Facetas cerâmicas em dentes com lesões cervicais não cariosas: relato de caso e análise de elementos finitos

On ceramic veneers rehabilitation, teeth with non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs), especially premolars, are often involved. Preparation to remove deep NCCLs may lead to excessive wear and a less conservative approach, which goes against the current principles of minimal wear and maximum preservation. However, no evidence exists indicating which technique could avoid excessive wear during the dental preparation for veneers associated with NCCL. Thus, this study aimed to present an aesthetic treatment with ceramic veneers and follow-up of 24 months of a patient with various levels of NCCL severity; and to evaluate various wear protocols for dental veneers associated with NCCL via Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to guide and justify the clinical decision of the clinical case described. A 37-year-old male patient presented for treatment with wear on the anterior teeth and with NCCLs of various severity degrees on the posterior teeth. The treatment chosen was rehabilitation with ceramic veneers on teeth 15 to 25. The best restorative approach for the NCCL teeth was evaluated via an FEA, simulating various protocols and lesion depths while also calculating the percentage of tooth structure loss. Restoring the premolar's deeper NCCL with a composite resin core, before a ceramic veneer impression, presented better mechanical behavior in FEA and less tooth wear. For the 1.0 mm NCCL, beveling the lesion promoted good stress distribution, less invasive wear and an easier clinical procedure, as it did not involve a previous restorative procedure. It could be concluded that the restorative decision for premolars with NCCLs that will receive veneers should consider the set biomechanical behavior and especially the tooth structure wear necessary. For the case report presented, after two years of follow-up, no changes from the immediate result were observed, indicating that the cause of the lesions was eliminated, and that the treatment was effective, at least in the short-term. For FEA analysis, restoring the deeper NCCL prior to ceramic veneer impression, presented better mechanical behavior and less tooth wear. For the 1.0 mm NCCL, beveling the margin of the lesion generated the same good results

Na reabilitação com facetas cerâmicas, dentes com lesões cervicais não cariosas (LCNC), especialmente pré-molares, estão frequentemente envolvidos. O preparo para remover a LCNC pode levar a um desgaste excessivo e a uma abordagem menos conservadora, o que vai contra os princípios atuais de mínimo desgaste e máxima preservação. Entretanto, não existem evidências indicando qual técnica pode evitar o desgaste excessivo durante o preparo para facetas associado com LCNC. Portanto, esse artigo tem dois objetivos principais: 1) apresentar um tratamento estético com facetas cerâmicas e acompanhamento de 24 meses de um paciente com vários níveis de severidade de LCNC e 2) avaliar vários protocolos de preparo para facetas cerâmicas associadas com LCNC por meio do Método de Elementos Finitos (MEF) para guiar e justificar a decisão clínica do caso clínico descrito. Um paciente de 37 anos, gênero masculino, compareceu para tratamento com desgaste nos dentes anteriores e com LCNC com vários graus de severidade nos dentes posteriores. Optou-se pela reabilitação com facetas cerâmicas nos dentes 15 a 25. A melhor abordagem restauradora para os dentes com LCNC foi avaliada por MEF, simulando vários protocolos e profundidades de lesão, além disso foi calculada a porcentagem de estrutura dental perdida. Restaurar a LCNC profunda de um pré-molar com um núcleo de resina composta, antes da moldagem para faceta cerâmica, apresentou melhor comportamento mecânico em MEF e menos desgaste dental. Para a LCNC de 1 mm, biselar a lesão promoveu boa distribuição de tensões, um desgaste menos invasivo e um procedimento clínico mais fácil, já que não envolveu um procedimento restaurador prévio. Pode-se concluir que a decisão restauradora para pré-molares com LCNC que irão receber facetas deve considerar o comportamento biomecânico do conjunto e, principalmente, o desgaste de estrutura dental necessário. Para o caso apresentado, após 2 anos de acompanhamento, nenhuma mudança foi observada, indicando que a causa das lesões foi eliminada, e que o tratamento foi efetivo, ao menos no curto prazo. Para MEF, restaurar a LCNC antes da moldagem para facetas, apresentou melhor comportamento mecânico e menor desgaste dentário. Para a LCNC de 1,0 mm, fazer o bisel na margem da lesão levou aos mesmos bons resultados.

Prevalence of noncarious cervical lesions among adults: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to systematically review the literature on noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs) and calculate an overall prevalence estimate. METHODS: The protocol of this systematic review was prepared according to PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. The MEDLINE-PubMed and Cochrane-CENTRAL databases were searched. Relevant published papers that provided information regarding the prevalence or number of NCCLs among general or specific populations were included. RESULTS: The initial search identified 569 titles and abstracts, 24 of which met the eligibility criteria involving 14,628 participants. The weighted mean prevalence of NCCLs among the whole studied population was 46.7 % (95 % CI: 38.2; 55.3 %), ranging from 9.1%-93%. Based on sub-analyses, studies with populations older than 30 years revealed higher weighted prevalence (53 %) than those with populations younger than 30 years (43 %). Regarding the diagnostic method, when visual or tactile clinical examination was used, the prevalence was lower than when the Smith and Knight tooth wear index was used. When different definitions were used, the weighted mean prevalence varied from 28 % to 62 %. As to the terms used to address the lesions, the prevalence was higher when "noncarious cervical lesion" was used and lower when "root defects," "abrasion," or "abfraction" were used. When geographical regions were compared, South America had the highest reported prevalence of NCCLs, while the United States had the lowest. Moreover, general populations presented the highest prevalence, slightly higher than dental populations, whose members frequented dental practices. CONCLUSION: The overall prevalence of NCCLs was 46.7 % and higher in older populations. Visual and tactile clinical examination underestimate this prevalence compared to the established index. The terms and definitions used also influenced the prevalence data. Distinct geographical differences were observed, and general populations were more inclined to present NCCLs.

Brazilian dentists' perception of dentin hypersensitivity management.

The aim of this study was to investigate how Brazilian dentists perceive and manage dentin hypersensitivity (DH) in their clinical routine. A 13-item questionnaire-based survey was developed and sent electronically to a convenience sample of dentists. The questionnaire assessed the personal and dental practice characteristics of the sample, the occurrence of DH in their daily clinical practice, and management strategies. The data were analyzed descriptively and together with the chi-square test (a = 0.05). A total of 353 responses were obtained from September 2017 to March 2018. Of all the respondents, 62% were females, 49.9% reported fewer than five years of dental practice, and 70.5% were self-identified as private practitioners. Most of the dentists reported an estimated frequency (30-60%) of patients with DH in their practice. The most frequently cited (91.79%) trigger of DH was air blast and/or scratching with a probe. The first-choice strategy to manage DH was a dentin desensitizer (48.16%). The number of years in clinical practice did not influence DH relapse frequency (p = 0.76) significantly, or consider DH treatment as a problem (p = 0.22). The present findings indicate that, regardless of clinical experience, dentists in Brazil still consider DH management a challenge in their daily dental practice. In addition, the results suggest that guidelines should be developed to disseminate the available knowledge regarding this condition in ways that may influence decision-making processes among practitioners.

Development of a fiber-reinforced material for fiber posts: Evaluation of stress distribution, fracture load, and failure mode of restored roots.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The biomechanical behavior of post-restored roots with an experimental fiber-reinforced composite resin is unknown. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the biomechanical behavior of an experimental composite resin (3-mm short glass fiber incorporated in methacrylate matrix with filler particles) used to produce the custom post itself or to reline fiber posts. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Four testing groups (n=10) were created according to the root restoration method: FG, commercially available fiber post; FG+RC, fiber post relined with conventional composite resin; FG+EXP, fiber post relined with the experimental composite resin; and EXP, a custom post made of experimental composite resin. A three-dimensional finite element linear elastic analysis was performed by using geometric representations of groups, and the results were analyzed by von Mises (σvM) and maximum principal stress criteria. In sequence, 40 bovine incisors were assigned to these groups and subjected to a fracture load test (Instron 5965; 0.5 mm/min), and the failure mode was determined. RESULTS: The EXP group showed more homogeneous stress distribution for σvM. ANOVA and the Tukey honestly significant difference (HSD) tests showed significant differences (P<.001) in fracture load (mean ±standard deviation; different superscript letters indicate statistical difference): FG+EXP (669.5 ±107.7)A; FG (620.7 ±59.2)A; EXP (506.5 ±27.0)B; FG+RC (452.7 ±81.6)B. No differences were found for failure mode (P=.595). CONCLUSIONS: The experimental composite resin significantly increases fracture load when used to reline commercially available fiber posts and, irrespective of its use, presented lower stress concentration.

A long-term evaluation of experimental potassium oxalate concentrations on dentin hypersensitivity reduction: A triple-blind randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this split-mouth, triple-blind, randomized clinical trial was to evaluate the long-term clinical efficacy of experimental potassium oxalate concentration (10%) in relieving dentin hypersensitivity (DH), after a four-session application protocol. METHODS: Potassium oxalate gels with different concentrations (5 and 10%) were randomly assigned to half of the 31 patients from the sample in a split-mouth design. The desensitizers were applied following a four-session protocol, one session every 48 h. The primary outcome was the assessment of pain level with the visual analog scale (VAS, 0-10), at baseline, immediately after each desensitizing session, and also after the seventh day and along 1-,3-, 6-, 9- and 12-months follow-ups. Statistical analyses were performed using Friedman repeated measures and Wilcoxon signed rank tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: For both groups, the minimum of three sessions were required for the achievement of lower DH levels. Regardless of the concentration, the desensitizing effect was maintained all the way to the end of the 6-month follow-up. The 10%-potassium oxalate group was more effective for both 9 and 12-months follow-up periods (p < 0.001). No complications and adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS: When a four-session protocol is applied, both concentrations of potassium oxalate (5 and 10%) proved to be effective on DH reduction for up to six months. However, the higher concentration promoted better long-term results. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The DH is an increasing condition in clinical practice, which affects the patient's life quality. This study provides primary clinical evidence, suggesting that multiple application sessions and higher concentrations of potassium oxalate may result in maintenance of the desensitizing effect for more extended periods. Trial registered under number: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03083496.

Four-Session Protocol Effectiveness in Reducing Cervical Dentin Hypersensitivity: A 24-Week Randomized Clinical Trial.

Objective: A single-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of desensitizing agents with different action mechanisms in reducing cervical dentin hypersensitivity (CDH) after four application sessions, with 24-week follow-up. Materials and methods: Sixty patients with CDH were selected in the study and were allocated in three groups of treatment: Desensibilize KF 2%, Clinpro XT Varnish, and Photon Lase III (100 mW, 4 J/cm2-1 J/cm2 each point, 10 sec per point with wavelength of 808 nm). There were four application sessions performed, with a 48-h interval between each one. The evaporative stimuli and visual analog scale were used to evaluate the CDH level at baseline, immediately after treatment, and at 2, 4, 8, and 24 weeks after the application. Mixed-model effects test was used for comparison (α = 0.05).Results: All three groups showed significant reduction in CDH from baseline to each all-subsequent follow-up. All the groups maintained the CDH reduction, and presented no statistical differences between each other after treatment (p = 0.885), 2 (p = 0.857), 4 (p = 0.928), 8 (p = 0.206), and 24 weeks (p = 0.073) of follow-up.Conclusions: The four-session protocol was an effective approach in reduction of CDH (even after 24 weeks), regardless of desensitization mechanism.

Prevalence of dentin hypersensitivity: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of dentin hypersensitivity in various populations. SOURCES: Four electronic databases (Medline via PubMed, Cochrane Library, Wiley Online Library and Web of Science) were searched until June 2018. STUDY SELECTION: Cross-sectional studies on the prevalence of dentin hypersensitivity were included. Meta-analysis were conducted and meta-regression models were used to explain the variation of the prevalence measures. Data were extracted, and the studies were assessed for quality. DATA: A total of 65 papers (reporting on 77 studies) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The prevalence range was observed to be as low as 1.3% and as high as 92.1%. Effect modifiers for dentin hypersensitivity prevalences were the type of participants included in the study, age range, recruitment strategy and number of study sites. Higher prevalences were observed in studies involving specialty practice patients, younger adults, convenience sample and those characterized as single-site. CONCLUSION: The best estimate of dentin hypersensitivity was 11.5% (95%CI:11.3%-11.7%) and the average from all studies was 33.5% (95%CI: 30.2%-36.7%). The extremely high degree of heterogeneity among studies can only be partially explained by characteristics of the studies. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Dentin hypersensitivity is a persistent clinical problem that poses significant challenge for clinicians and affects patients' quality of life. Better understanding of the dentin hypersensitivity burden and its associated factors can assist on resource planning for reducing/preventing any discomfort arising from this condition and will aid in the decision-making process.

Influence of anterior load and restorative procedure on maxillary incisors with different cervical wear morphologies / Influência do procedimento restaurador e de contato anterior em incisivos superiores com diferentes morfologias de desgaste cervical

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different anterior load type and restorative procedure on stress distribution of maxillary incisors with different noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs) morphologies. Three-dimensional models of a maxillary incisor were generated. Beyond the sound model (SO), five NCCLs morphologies were simulated: shallow (SH), notched (NO), concave (CO), wedge-haped (WS) and irregular with dual center (IR' and IR"). Composite resin restoration of all the models was simulated (R). Two different anterior loads were applied: 100N on palatine middle third (ML) and 500 N on palatine incisal third (IL). The data were obtained in MPa using the Maximum Principal Stress and Von Mises criteria and the statistical analysis was performed (paired t-test with 95% confidence level). The IL provided higher compressive stress than ML, mainly on WS (-136.3MPa), IR" (-117.5) and NO (-71.1 MPa). The highest tensile stress found within the restored models was on NOR with IL (19,1 MPa). The Von Mises results showed higher stress concentration on non-restored and IL models (p<0.001). The anterior load type and restorative status were determinant factors on stress distribution pattern changes, whereas NCCLs morphologies had little influence in maxillary incisors.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência de diferentes tipos de contatos anteriores e procedimentos restauradores na distribuição de tensões de incisivos superiores com diferentes morfologias de lesões cervicais não-cariosas (NCCLs). Modelos tridimensionais de um incisivo central superior foram gerados. Além do modelo hígido (SO), foram simuladas cinco morfologias de NCCLs: rasas (SH), entalhadas (NO), côncavas (CO), em forma de cunha (WS) e irregulares com centro duplo (IR' e IR''). Restauração com resina composta em todos os modelos foi simulada (R). Dois contatos anteriores diferentes foram aplicadas: 100N no terço médio palatino (ML) e 500N no terço incisal palatino (IL). Os dados foram obtidos em MPa utilizando os critérios de Tensão Máxima Principal e de Von Mises e a análise estatística foi realizada (teste t pareado com nível de significância de 95%). A IL proporcionou maior estresse compressivo que ML, principalmente em WS (-136,3MPa), IR "(-117,5) e NO (-71,1 MPa). A maior tensão de tração encontrada nos modelos restaurados foi na NOR com IL (19,1 MPa). Os resultados de Von Mises mostraram maior concentração de estresse nos modelos não restaurados e IL (p <0,001). O tipo de contato anterior e a presença de restauração foram fatores determinantes nas alterações do padrão de distribuição de estresse, enquanto as morfologias dos NCCLs tiveram pouca influência nos incisivos superiores.

Influência do desequilíbrio oclusal na origem de lesão cervical não cariosa e recessão gengival: análise por elementos finitos / Influence of occlusal instability on the origin of non-carious cervical lesion and gingival recession: finite element analysis

Objetivo: avaliar o comportamento biomecânico de pré- -molar superior com presença de Lesões Cervicais Não Cariosas (LCNC) e submetido a três carregamentos oclusais distintos pelo método de elementos finitos tridimensional (3D). Material e método: nove modelos tridimensionais elásticos foram gerados, com propriedades ortotrópicas e isotrópicas: Hígido (H); LCNC não restaurada (LCNC) e LCNC restaurada com resina composta (RC); sendo todos estes modelos submetidos a três carregamentos: Axial (A), Oblíquo vestibular (V) e Oblíquo palatino (P). Os carregamentos tiveram intensidade de 150 N e a restrição de deslocamento foi realizada na base e lateral dos ossos cortical e medular. Os resultados foram gerados em tensão máxima e mínima principal. Resultados: O carregamento axial apresentou padrões de tensão mais favoráveis, independente da característica da região cervical. O carregamento palatino mostrou maior acúmulo de tensão de tração na região cervical vestibular e o carregamento vestibular resultou em maior tensão de compressão na tábua óssea vestibular. A presença de LCNC foi fator intensificador para o aumento da concentração de tensão na região cervical. A simulação da restauração com resina composta promoveu um comportamento biomecânico simular ao do hígido. Conclusões: que o carregamento palatino pode estar mais associado com a presença de LCNCs e o vestibular com a presença de recessão gengival. O ajuste oclusal e a restauração da LCNC são indicados para tornar o padrão de tensão mais favorável para o remanescente dentário.

Objective: to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of maxillary premolar with the presence of NCCL and submitted to three distinct occlusal loads, using the three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis. Methods: nine three-dimensional elastic models were generated, with orthotropic and isotropic properties: Sound (H); Unrestored NCCL (NCCL) and NCCL restored with composite resin (RC); All models were submitted to three loads: Axial (A), Buccal (V) and Palataline (P). The loads intensity was 150 N and the displacement restriction was performed at the base and lateral of the cortical and medullary bones. The results were generated at maximum and minimum principal stress. Results: the axial loading presented more favorable stress pattern, independent of the characteristic of the cervical region. The palataline loading showed a greater concentration of tensile stress in the buccal cervical region and the buccal loading resulted in a higher compression stress in the buccal bone. The presence of NCCL was a relevant factor for increase concentration of stress in the cervical region. The simulation of the restoration with composite resin promoted a biomechanical behavior similar to that of the sound tooth. Conclusion that the palataline loading may be more associated with the presence of NCCLs and the vestibular with the presence of gingival recession. The occlusal adjustment and the restoration of NCCLs are indicated to produce the stress pattern more favorable for the dental remaining.

Relationship between noncarious cervical lesions, cervical dentin hypersensitivity, gingival recession, and associated risk factors: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors associated with noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs), cervical dentin hypersensitivity (CDH), and gingival recession (GR), besides the relationship among these conditions in a specific Brazilian sample population. METHODS: 185 patients who attended the "Ambulatory Program for Rehabilitation of Patients with Noncarious Cervical Lesions and Cervical Dentin Hypersensitivity" were evaluated, and 5180 teeth were analyzed. The subjects filled out a form and a calibrated examiner performed the clinical exams to determine the presence of NCCLs, CDH, and GR. NCCLs were classified according to their morphology and depth, CDH levels were evaluated according to air stimuli response, and GRs were categorized according to Miller's classification. The association of the risk factors with NCCLs, CDH, and GR was determined with the Mann-Whitney U test and multiple linear regression. For the correlations, the Spearman test was used with a 95%-confidence level. RESULTS: The NCCLs, CDH, and GR distributions within the study were 88.1%, 89.1%, and 59.4%, respectively. Maxillary premolars were the most affected by all three conditions. A positive correlation was found between age, NCCLs, and GR; between NCCLs and CDH; CDH and GR; GR and NCCLs. Age, gender, oral hygiene, gastroesophageal diseases, and occlusal trauma were significantly associated with the presence of all three conditions. CONCLUSIONS: The NCCLs and GR distributions increased with age; NCCLs, CDH, and GR had positive correlation; the lesions' depth and morphology contributed to high levels of sensitivity and severity of recessions; age, gender, gastric disease, and occlusal trauma were relevant factors for the occurrence of NCCLs, CDH, and GR. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The increasing distribution of NCCLs, CDH, and GR is closely associated with people's lifestyles. Thus, it is important for the clinicians to recognize the etiological factors and their most relevant associations to prevent and control such alterations, in order to improve the population's quality of life.

Clinical Performance of Root Surface Restorations.

This chapter describes the clinical performance of restorations placed in root caries lesions. The prevalence of root caries and other types of cervical lesions, caused by abfraction, erosion, and abrasion (non-carious cervical lesions) are high, mainly in the elderly; and therefore, restorative procedures are indicated. We will revise the restorative materials used to restore these types of lesions and present evidence-based findings to provide clinicians with better evidence for choosing them. Additionally, some steps of the restorative procedure for the placement of resin-based composites will be revised and common clinical questions related to these steps will be answered based on high evidence level, produced by randomized clinical trials and systematic reviews of the literature.

Estética e higiene em próteses do tipo protocolo superior ­ relato de caso / Aesthetics and cleansing in upper protocol-type prostheses ­ case report

Para obter estética e funcionalidade em prótese implantada, vários detalhes devem ser observados. Um detalhe importante em próteses do tipo protocolo é a presença de espaço para higienização. Este caso clínico relata um caso em que a paciente utilizava uma prótese do tipo protocolo superior e prótese parcial removível inferior Classe I de Kennedy. Contudo, a paciente estava insatisfeita com sua prótese superior em relação à estética e dificuldade para higienização. Durante a consulta para diagnóstico e planejamento esses problemas reportados pela pacientes ficaram evidentes: mal posicionamento dos dentes, falta de espaço para corredor bucal e desvio de linha média. foi proposto a paciente a confecção de novas próteses superior e inferior, que seguiram todos os passos necessários para alcançar estética e funcionalidade. A etapa de prova de dentes superiores foi realizada três vezes, até que estivesse ideal. Após a acrilização da prótese superior foram criadas pequenas canaletas para guiar a passagem do fio dental entre os implantes, facilitando o processo de higienização. Este caso clínico demonstra que todos os parâmetros necessários para a confecção de uma prótese total adequada devem ser respeitados durante a confecção de uma prótese do tipo protocolo sobre implantes. Além disso, a confecção das canaletas para higienização permite que o paciente realize esse processo de forma satisfatória, podendo aumentar o tempo de sucesso do tratamento.

To achieve good aesthetics and function in implant-supported dental prosthesis several details must be observed. One important detail for protocol-type prosthesis is the presence of a cleansing space. This paper reports the case of a patient with upper protocol-type prosthesis and an inferior partial Kennedy Class I removable prosthesis. however, the patient was unsatisfied with the aesthetics of the upper prosthesis as well as with the difficulty of cleaning it. During consultation for diagnosis and planning the problems reported by the patient became evident: wrong positioning of the teeth, lack of buccal corridor and midline deviation. The recommendation was to manufacture new lower and upper prostheses, following all the required steps in order to achieve satisfactory aesthetics and function. for the upper teeth try-in stages were performed, until the ideal fit was reached. After acrylic cure of the upper prosthesis was performed, furrows were created in the region between the implants, serving as guide to facilitate the passage of dental floss, making it easier to clean the prosthesis. The aim of this study was to demonstrate, that all the parameters observed in the manufacture of a conventional complete denture should be followed in the confection of protocol type prosthesis. Also, the furrows allow proper hygiene, which may increase the duration of the treatment success.