Three-dimension model of root canal morphology of primary maxillary incisors by micro-computed tomography study.

The success of root canal treatment for deciduous teeth depends upon the shape of the root canal, among other factors. Despite this, there are limited reports on the use of high-resolution micro-CT to describe the root canal morphology of primary maxillary incisors. In this study, we aimed to create a three-dimensional (3D) digital model of the root canal morphology of primary maxillary incisors using microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). To provide a reference for the development of restorative posts for the primary maxillary incisors. Primary maxillary central and lateral incisors (n = 10 each) were analysed. Micro-computed tomography was used to conduct 3D analyses of the root canal system of the primary maxillary incisors. The canal volume and surface area of the primary maxillary central incisors were larger than those of the primary maxillary lateral incisors. The structural model index value was significantly lower in central incisors. At the cervical level and the interface between the cervical and middle one-third cross-sectional levels, the root canals of the primary maxillary lateral incisors were significantly rounder. The labio-palatal dimension and the diameters of the central incisors at the four different levels were significantly smaller than the diameter of the mesio-distal dimension. The taper of the central and lateral incisors gradually increased from the apical one-third to the cervical one-third in the labio-palatal dimension. The data obtained from the 3D analysis of maxillary incisors in this study will contribute to the design of root canal posts.

Visual treatment objective-based lateral esthetics preview for implant-supported reconstruction in terminal dentition with proclined maxillary incisors.

PATIENT: A 67-year-old woman presented with severe periodontitis-induced terminal dentition and proclined maxillary incisor. Three-dimensional facial esthetics-driven computer-assisted virtual tooth rearrangement was performed for implant-supported full-arch reconstruction. The digital workflow combines facial and spiral computed tomography (CT) scans to generate a virtual patient for three-dimensional (3D) facial analysis and obtain a visual treatment objective (VTO)-based lateral esthetic preview for virtual teeth rearrangement. Subsequently, this printed interim denture performed well in functionalization and esthetics, acted as a transitional removable denture, radiological template, and implant-supported interim denture, and guided the design of the final restoration. DISCUSSION: Conventional methods for lateral esthetic preview, such as traditional wax rim try-in, confront difficulties in the treatment of terminal dentition, especially in the presence of proclined maxillary incisors. However, currently available software that aids information fusion and facial analysis can accurately predict soft-to-hard tissue movement and efficiently guide virtual tooth rearrangement for implant-supported full-arch reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS: The use of VTO-based lateral esthetic preview for implant-supported reconstruction improves pre- and postoperative information transfer accuracy and doctor-patient communication efficiency.

Four single implant-supported crowns replacing the maxillary incisors: A retrospective report of 10 cases with 2-9 years of follow-up.

OBJECTIVE: This retrospective case series aimed to assess the stability of the papilla around four single crowns supported by narrow-diameter implants replacing all maxillary incisors. Secondary objectives included assessment of marginal bone level stability, incidence of technical and biological complications, and patient satisfaction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Individuals with four adjacent implants in maxillary incisor sites, placed with a 3 mm inter-implant distance and rehabilitated with single crowns were included. Retrospective data were obtained from photographs and radiographs taken at the delivery of the prosthesis (baseline-T0). Patients were then recalled (≥2 years after T0) for clinical and radiographic examination (follow-up-T1). Photographs were obtained and patient satisfaction was assessed using a visual analogue scale. Papilla height and marginal bone level were compared over time. RESULTS: Data from 10 patients with medium-low smile lines and rehabilitated with 40 implants, in function for 5.4 ± 1.9 years, were analyzed. The papilla height between implants (T0: 2.3 ± 0.9 mm; T1: 2.6 ± 0.7 mm; p = .011) and between tooth and implant (T0: 3.4 ± 0.9 mm; T1: 3.8 ± 0.8 mm; p = .025) increased significantly over the years. The marginal bone level remained stable over time (T0: 0.88 ± 0.57 mm; T1: 0.71 ± 0.67 mm; p = .007). Patients were highly satisfied (97.7 ± 0.3%) with the treatment outcome. CONCLUSION: Within its limitations, this study demonstrated that four single implant-supported crowns placed at maxillary incisor sites may exhibit soft tissue and marginal bone stability over a long period of time. This treatment approach, however, should be restricted to few patients as it requires a proper case selection and skillful execution of all surgical and prosthetic steps.

Healing After Horizontal Root Fracture of Maxillary Central Incisor: A Case Report With 24-Month Follow-Up.

Facial traumatic injuries are quite common, resulting in the fracture and displacement of tooth and/or bone fragments. Loss of tooth structure may have lifetime consequences for the patient. Horizontal root fractures (HRFs) may occur in the maxillary anterior teeth at different locations, showing varied patterns of healing. The treatment options range from simple observation and follow-ups to conservative management or even complex surgical procedures. Correct and timely intervention can help preserve the tooth structure, leading to the long-term survival of the tooth. The present case report showcases endodontic treatment and favourable healing of a horizontal root fracture at the apical third of a permanent maxillary central incisor. At the 24-month follow-up, the tooth is clinically healthy, and radiographic images show a successful outcome.

Efficacy of a four-curvature auxiliary arch at preventing maxillary central incisor linguoclination during orthodontic treatment: a finite element analysis.

BACKGROUND: Correct torque of the incisors is beneficial in the assessment of the effects of orthodontic treatment. However, evaluating this process effectively remains a challenge. Improper anterior teeth torque angle can cause bone fenestrations and exposure of the root surface. METHODS: A three-dimensional finite element model of the maxillary incisor torque controlled by a homemade four-curvature auxiliary arch was established. The four-curvature auxiliary arch placed on the maxillary incisors was divided into four different state groups, among which 2 groups had tooth extraction space retracted traction force set to 1.15 N. Initial displacements and pressure stresses of the periodontal tissue in the maxillary incisors and molars were calculated after torque forces (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 N) were applied to the teeth at different stable states. RESULTS: The effect of using the four-curvature auxiliary arch on the incisors was significant but did not affect the position of the molars. Given the absence of tooth extraction space, when the four-curvature auxiliary arch was used in conjunction with absolute anchorage, the recommended force value was < 1.5 N. In the other 3 groups (i.e., molar ligation, molar retraction, and microimplant retraction groups), the recommended force value was < 1 N. The application of a four-curvature auxiliary arch did not influence the molar periodontal and displacement. CONCLUSION: A four-curvature auxiliary arch may treat severely upright anterior teeth and correct cortical fenestrations of the bone and root surface exposure.

Comparing the Fracture Resistance of Dentine Posts and Glass Fiber Posts in Primary Maxillary Incisors: An In Vitro Study.

Background/purpose An ideal post material should have physical and mechanical properties similar to dentin. Another problem when restoring primary teeth that have undergone root canal treatment is the availability of materials that are resorbed in the exfoliation process in a manner similar to the structure of the natural tooth, allowing the normal eruption of a permanent tooth. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of using dentine posts on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated primary incisors in comparison to glass fiber posts. Materials and methods The study sample consisted of 30 extracted primary maxillary incisors that were randomly distributed into the following two groups: group I (experimental, n=15), which was restored with dentine posts; and group II (control, n=15), which was restored with glass fiber posts. Initially, 10 extracted single-root permanent teeth were collected to prepare 20 dentine posts using a computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) machine. Then, the crowns of maxillary primary incisors were cut and the canals were prepared and filled. Then the preparation for a post was made using Gates Glidden drills, and the posts were placed with an extension of 3 mm within the canal in both groups, then the crown was built and the teeth were placed within acrylic cubes and subjected to 500 thermocycling. Fracture resistance was recorded using a Testometric machine (Rochdale, England: Testometric Co. Ltd.). Data were analyzed using an independent Student's t-test. Results The dentine posts group showed greater fracture resistance (246.3 N) than the glass fiber posts group (206.3 N). A statistically significant difference (p=0.004) was found between the two groups in favor of the dentine posts group. Conclusion Based on this in vitro study, the dentin posts used in restoring severely decayed primary maxillary incisors showed greater fracture resistance than glass fiber posts. Therefore, the use of dentin posts as intra-canal stabilizers in maxillary primary incisors is a good alternative for glass fiber posts.

Cone-beam computed tomography in the diagnosis of regional odontodysplasia.

Regional odontodysplasia (RO) in permanent teeth is a rare developmental anomaly of mineralized tissues. Three-dimensional images and data from CBCT allowed to provide useful information on the degree of tooth calcification and consequently confirm the diagnosis of RO and establish a treatment strategy to minimize future damages and sequels.

Relationship of anteroposterior position of maxillary central incisors with the forehead in an adult Iranian subpopulation: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the relationship of the anteroposterior position of maxillary central incisors with the forehead in an Iranian subpopulation residing in Kermanshah city. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 12 orthodontists were requested to analyse full-smile profile photographs with complete maxillary incisor and forehead show in 70 patients with optimal facial harmony (35 males and 35 females) as the control group and 140 patients without optimal facial harmony (70 males and 70 females) as the test group. The inclusion criteria were (I) males and females between 18-60 years seeking orthodontic treatment and (II) willingness for participation in the study. The exclusion criteria were (I) presence of severe craniofacial anomalies, and (II) history of orthodontic treatment. The photographs were traced and analysed using Digimizer Image Analysis software 5.3.5. Data were analysed using STATA version 14.2 via independent t-test and linear regression. RESULTS: A significant difference existed in the anteroposterior position of maxillary incisors in males between the test and control groups (P=0.002). However, this difference was not significant in females of the two groups (P=0.77). A significant difference was noted in the anteroposterior position of maxillary incisors between males and females in the test group (P=0.001) but not in the control group (P=0.80). The frontal angle had a significant correlation with gender and anteroposterior position of maxillary incisors in both groups (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: According to the results, the anteroposterior position of maxillary incisors was significantly different in the test and control groups. The maxillary incisors in males were more retruded than in females. Also, the frontal angle had a significant correlation with the anteroposterior position of maxillary incisors, and by 1° increase in the frontal angle, the incisors were protruded by averagely 0.307mm.

Influence of remaining tooth substance and post-endodontic restoration on fracture strength of endodontically treated maxillary incisors.

The aim is to evaluate the influence of remaining tooth substance and post-endodontic restoration on fracture strength of endodontically treated maxillary incisors. 150 maxillary central incisors were divided into three groups, Group 0, intact teeth; Group 1, removal of distal wall; Group 2, removal of mesial and distal walls, and further into two subgroups A0,A1,A2 and B0,B1,B2 according to post-endodontic restoration (post/no-post), then loaded to fracture. Interactions among variables and intergroup significance were tested with two-way ANOVA and Kruskal Wallis's tests (p≤0.05). Tukey's test was applied for multiple comparisons. Statistically significant differences were found between groups B1-A1, and B2-A2, but they were not found between B0-A0. Intragroup analysis showed statistically significant differences in both groups post/no-post with decreasing dental substance. Fiber post placement causes an increase in fracture strength and a reduction of irreparable fractures in endodontically treated maxillary central incisors that lost at least one wall.

Cephalometric Evaluation of Maxillary Incisors Inclination, Facial, and Growth Axes in Different Vertical and Sagittal Patterns: An Original Study.

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the inclination of the maxillary incisors (I), facial axis (FA), and growth axis (GA) in different vertical and sagittal patterns. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 498 consecutive orthodontic patients, with an average age of 18.87 years (range = 5-63 years), were grouped based on their vertical and sagittal patterns. Maxillary incisors, FA, and GA axes were traced and their corresponding angles to nasion-basion and true horizontal lines were measured. The sample was divided into three groups based on the mandibular divergence (mandibular plane-MP/sella-nasion [SN]): Group 1-hypodivergent pattern (MP/SN ≤ 27; n = 30), Group 2-normodivergent pattern (27 < MP/SN <37; n = 254), and Group 3-hyperdivergent pattern (MP/SN ≥ 37; n = 214); the sample was then divided into three groups based on the sagittal pattern (ANB, angle between points A, Nasion and B): Group I-skeletal CLI (Class I) (0

A Modified Pontic Appliance for Missing Maxillary Incisors.

A modified pontic technique is presented that simplifies the management of patients with missing anterior teeth during the course of comprehensive orthodontic care. This technique demonstrates a lingual arch attached to lingual sheaths with the pontic placed on the lingual arch. Information presented includes appliance design, improved bond strength of the bracket on the pontic tooth, preparing the appliance for use as anchorage, and the incorporation of an anterior biteplate in the appliance. A modified pontic appliance improves esthetics and function when treating patients with missing maxillary anterior teeth.

Causes of impacted maxillary incisors and progresses in orthodontic treatment / 上海交通大学学报（医学版）

An impacted tooth is a tooth that cannot erupt normally when its eruption is blocked or it is erupted in the wrong direction and posi-tion. The most commonly impacted teeth is the third molar, while in the anterior region, the most common is the maxillary canine, followed by the maxillary central incisor and the maxillary lateral incisor. In recent years, the treatment of impacted maxillary incisors often uses open and closed eruption techniques with traction. Although most of the prognosis is good, traction difficulties, root resorption and alveolar bone loss are often encountered in the case of root dilacerations. This article reviews the progresses in the treatment of impacted maxillary incisors.

Alveolar bone remodeling during maxillary incisor intrusion and retraction.

BACKGROUND: Maxillary incisor protrusion is a prevalent dental deformity and is often treated by upper incisor intrusion and retraction. The mechanical loading triggers the resorption and apposition of the bone. Alveolar bone remodeling is expected to follow orthodontic tooth movement in a one-to-one relationship. However, in many cases, the outcomes are different. Alveolar bone might still remain thick causing lip protrusion and other aesthetic problems after treatment. Additional corrective procedures such as alveoloplasty. On the other hand, if the labial bone becomes too thin, periodontal problems like gingival recession might occur. The unpredictability of the treatment result and the risk of requiring corrective procedures pose significant challenges to both the providers and patients. The aim of this study is to determine factors that can help to predict the alveolar bone reaction before maxillary incisor intrusion and retraction. METHODS: The cohort included 34 female patients (mean age 25.8 years) who were diagnosed with skeletal class II malocclusion with upper incisor protrusion. These patients underwent extraction and orthodontic treatment with upper incisor intrusion and retraction. Lateral cephalograms at pre-treatment and post-treatment were taken. Linear and angular measurements were analyzed to evaluate the alveolar bone changes based on initial conditions. RESULTS: The study found that the relative change, calculated as change in alveolar bone thickness after treatment divided by the initial alveolar thickness, was inversely correlated with the initial thickness. There was a significant increase of labial alveolar bone thickness at 9-mm apical from cementoenamel junction (B3) (P < 0.05) but no statistically significant change in the thickness at other levels. In addition, the change in angulation between the incisor and alveolar bone was inversely correlated with several initial angulations: between the initial palatal plane and upper incisor angle, between the initial palatal plane and upper incisor labial surface angle, and between the initial palatal plane and bone labial surface angle. On the other hand, the change in labial bone thickness was neither significantly correlated with the initial thickness nor significantly correlated to the amount of retraction. CONCLUSION: The unpredictability of alveolar bone remodeling after upper incisor intrusion and retraction poses significant challenges to treatment planning and patient experience. The study showed that the initial angulation between the incisor and alveolar bone is correlated with the change in angulation after treatment, the initial thickness of the alveolar bone was correlated with the relative change of the alveolar bone thickness (defined as change in thickness after treatment divided by its initial thickness), and the amount of intrusion was correlated with the alveolar bone thickness change at 9-mm apical from the cementoenamel junction after treatment. The results of the present study also revealed that the change in labial alveolar bone thickness was neither significantly correlated with the initial thickness nor significantly correlated to the amount of retraction.

The incisive papilla as a guide to maxillary anterior teeth position for complete dentures.

CONTEXT: The incisive papilla as a guide for complete dentures. AIMS: To evaluate incisive papilla as a guide to maxillary anterior teeth position for complete dentures. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: To measure the linear distances from the incisive papilla to the maxillary central incisors in Odia population and compare it to other ethnic groups. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The subjects were selected following inclusion & exclusion criteria. The impressions of maxillary & mandibular arches were taken and poured with die stone to produce the cast. The incisive papilla & incisors were marked on casts with a pencil. The photographs of casts were traced on an acetate tracing paper. The anterior-most points of maxillary incisors, anterior, middle & posterior-most points of incisive papillae were marked on the tracing as A, I1,M, I2 respectively. The A to M and A to I2 distances were measured, analysed and compared with Caucasians, Southern Chinese, and Dravidians. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Independent sample "t" test and Analysis of Variance followed by the post-hoc Bonferroni test were used. RESULTS: A sample of 100 subjects in the age group of 20 to 40 years with was selected. The A to M measurements of Odia population differed significantly from Caucasians but were similar to Southern Chinese population. The A to I2 measurements of Odia population differed significantly from Caucasians & Dravidians but were similar to Southern Chinese. CONCLUSION: The linear measurements from incisive papilla to maxillary incisors of the Odia population are similar to that of Southern Chinese but differ significantly from Caucasians and Dravidians.

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.

[Study on using laser Doppler flowmetry to determine the pulpal blood flow of immature maxillary incisors].

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of age on the pulpal blood flow (PBF) of immature maxillary incisors of maxillary incisors, which was detected by laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF). METHODS: LDF was used to detect the PBF value of maxillary central and lateral incisors of a child group (aged 7-13 years old) and a positive control group (aged 18-25 years old), as well as the central incisor of a negative control group (the central incisor had undergone endodontic treatment). We then compared the features of PBF in all groups with the influence of gender and position on PBF. The relation of maxillary central incisor and lateral incisor, age, and maxillary incisor were analyzed. RESULTS: The PBF value of the negative control group was (2.08±0.73) PU. The PBF values in the positive control group in central and lateral incisors were (8.49±1.88) and (7.52±1.82) PU. In the child group, PBF values in central incisors and lateral incisors were (11.31±2.21) and (12.18±2.65) PU. A significant difference was observed between different groups and between central and lateral incisors (P<0.01). Meanwhile, no significant difference was found in the PBF values between the right and the left parts in both males and females (P>0.05). Age had a linearity negative correlation with the PBF value of incisors in the child group. A linear negative correlation existed between the age and PBF of central and lateral incisors (r=-0.310 and r=-0.510, respectively) (P<
0.01). CONCLUSIONS: PBF value decreased with increased age in children aged 7-13 years old.

Evaluation of Novel Glass Fiber-reinforced Composite Technique for Primary Anterior Teeth with Deep Carious Lesions: A 12-month Clinical Study.

BACKGROUND: Early childhood caries discloses a distinct clinical pattern, and the teeth most often involved are the maxillary central incisors, lateral incisors, and the maxillary and man-dibular first molars. The maxillary incisors are most severely affected, with deep carious lesions usually involving the pulp. Teeth that have been endodontically treated often have little coronal tooth tissue remaining and as such require a post to retain the core and restoration .This study evaluated and compared the efficacy of EverStick glass fiber-reinforced composite post with ParaPost Taper Lux in primary maxillary anterior teeth. AIM: An in vivo study was conducted to evaluate and compare the longevity and failures of two fiber post systems in primary maxillary anterior teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 60 severely mutilated primary maxillary anterior teeth from children aged 3 to 5 years were selected according to the inclusion criteria. These teeth were treated endodontically and were randomly assigned into two groups with 30 samples in each group, group I: EverStick glass fiber-reinforced composite post, group II: ParaPost Taper Lux post. The evaluation of dislodgment of posts, secondary caries, root fracture, and post fracture was carried out clinically and radiographically during every follow-up at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months interval. RESULTS: Statistical tests (Chi-square test, Fisher's exact probability test) suggested that dislodgment of the posts was significant between the two groups at 6, 9, and 12 months follow-ups. But within the group during subsequent follow-up intervals, dislodgment of posts as a mode of failure was not statistically significant. However, clinically failures were seen in both the study groups. CONCLUSION: Fiber post system has proved to be successful clinically in both primary and permanent teeth due to the mono-block effect with luting agent, post system, core material, and bonding to dentin. Thus, today the EverStick glass fiber post system provides a novel way of fabricating cost-effective and less time-consuming custom-made post in treating mutilated maxillary anteriors. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Sawant A, Chunawalla Y, Morawala A, Kanchan NS, Jain K, Talathi R. Evaluation of Novel Glass Fiber-reinforced Composite Technique for Primary Anterior Teeth with Deep Carious Lesions: A 12-month Clinical Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(2):126-130.

Four-unit fixed dental prostheses replacing the maxillary incisors supported by two narrow-diameter implants - a five-year case series.

OBJECTIVES: (1) To determine the survival rate of 10 four-unit fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) replacing the four maxillary incisors, supported by 20 narrow-diameter implants (NDIs), (2) to assess the incidence of mechanical and biological complications, and (3) to evaluate bone level changes longitudinally after final FDP insertion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten patients (six women, four men), mean age 49.4 ± 12.6 years, were treated with a four-unit anterior maxillary FDP (six screw-retained; four cemented). Biological parameters, eventual technical complications, radiographic measurements, and study casts were assessed at 1 (baseline), 3, and 5 years after implant placement. A multilevel logistic regression test was performed on clinical parameters and bone level changes (significance level P < 0.05). RESULTS: The 5-year implant and FDP survival rate was 100%. Mean modified plaque index (mPI) values were 0.03 and 0.02 at 3 and 5 years, significantly lower when compared to mPI (0.11 ± 0.31) at 1 year. Mean modified sulcus bleeding index (mSBI) was 0.08, 0.08, and 0.15 over time. Probing depth (PD) values were 1.57, 1.64, and 2.03 mm. Statistically significant differences were found between 1 vs. 5 year (P = 0.0003) and 3 vs. 5 year (P = 0.001). Keratinized mucosa (3.65 mm) remained stable during observation period. DIB mean values were 2.01 ± 0.34, 2.13 ± 0.13, and 2.17 ± 0.38 mm. Patient satisfaction based on visual analog scale revealed favorable fulfillment of overall treatment and esthetic expectations. CONCLUSIONS: Two NDIs supporting a four-unit FDP to replace the four missing maxillary incisors may be considered a predictable treatment modality.

Study on using laser Doppler flowmetry to determine the pulpal blood flow of immature maxillary incisors / 华西口腔医学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>This study aimed to evaluate the influence of age on the pulpal blood flow (PBF) of immature maxillary incisors of maxillary incisors, which was detected by laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>LDF was used to detect the PBF value of maxillary central and lateral incisors of a child group (aged 7-13 years old) and a positive control group (aged 18-25 years old), as well as the central incisor of a negative control group (the central incisor had undergone endodontic treatment). We then compared the features of PBF in all groups with the influence of gender and position on PBF. The relation of maxillary central incisor and lateral incisor, age, and maxillary incisor were analyzed.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The PBF value of the negative control group was (2.08±0.73) PU. The PBF values in the positive control group in central and lateral incisors were (8.49±1.88) and (7.52±1.82) PU. In the child group, PBF values in central incisors and lateral incisors were (11.31±2.21) and (12.18±2.65) PU. A significant difference was observed between different groups and between central and lateral incisors (P<0.01). Meanwhile, no significant difference was found in the PBF values between the right and the left parts in both males and females (P>0.05). Age had a linearity negative correlation with the PBF value of incisors in the child group. A linear negative correlation existed between the age and PBF of central and lateral incisors (r=-0.310 and r=-0.510, respectively) (P<
0.01).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>PBF value decreased with increased age in children aged 7-13 years old.</p>