Occlusion development after premature loss of deciduous anterior teeth: preliminary results of a 24-month prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to evaluate occlusion development after premature loss or extraction of deciduous anterior teeth, by means of a prospective cohort study. Methods: Fifteen infants and children aged 1 to 5 years old were longitudinally assessed (with loss or extraction of deciduous anterior teeth [n = 9], and without tooth losses [n = 6]). Photographs and dental casts at the baseline and after 24 months of follow-up were performed. Dental casts were scanned, and linear measurements were made on the digitalized models (missing tooth space, arch perimeter, arch length, arch width, intercanine length and intercanine width). The t-test was used for groups comparisons (α = 0.05). Results: Individuals' mean age at baseline was 2.93 (± 1.18) years. No statistically significant differences were observed in the missing tooth space in the group with tooth loss during the 24 months of follow-up (p > 0.05). Arch perimeter, arch length, arch width, intercanine length and intercanine width did not show differences between the groups (p > 0.05). Qualitative photographic evaluation revealed other changes in the dental arches and occlusion, such as exfoliation and eruption of deciduous teeth, eruption of permanent teeth, self-correction or establishment of malocclusion, among others. Conclusion: The results suggest that the premature loss of deciduous anterior teeth does not affect the perimeter, length and width of the dental arches; however, other alterations that lead to malocclusion could be established.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o desenvolvimento da oclusão após perda prematura ou extração de dentes decíduos anteriores, por meio de um estudo de coorte prospectivo. Métodos: Quinze bebês e crianças de 1 a 5 anos foram avaliados longitudinalmente (com perda ou extração de dentes anteriores decíduos [n = 9] e sem perdas dentárias [n = 6]). Foram realizadas fotografias e modelos dentais no início e após 24 meses de acompanhamento. Os modelos dentários foram escaneados e medidas lineares foram feitas nos modelos digitalizados (espaço dentário perdido, perímetro da arcada, comprimento da arcada, largura da arcada, comprimento intercaninos e largura intercaninos). O teste t foi utilizado para comparações entre grupos (α = 0,05). Resultados: A média de idade dos indivíduos no início do estudo foi de 2,93 (± 1,18) anos. Não foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas no espaço dentário perdido no grupo com perda dentária durante os 24 meses de acompanhamento (p > 0,05). O perímetro da arcada, comprimento da arcada, largura da arcada, comprimento intercaninos e largura intercaninos não apresentaram diferenças entre os grupos (p> 0,05). A avaliação fotográfica qualitativa revelou alterações nas arcadas dentárias e na oclusão, como: esfoliação e erupção de dentes decíduos, erupção de dentes permanentes, autocorreção ou estabelecimento de má oclusão, entre outras. Conclusão: Os resultados sugerem que a perda prematura de dentes anteriores decíduos não afeta o perímetro, comprimento e largura das arcadas dentárias; entretanto, outras alterações que levam à má oclusão poderiam ser estabelecidas.

The use of rubber dam in the survival of RMGIC restorations in primary molars: a 30-month randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract This study was a randomized controlled clinical trial with two parallel arms and the objective was to compare the survival of resin modified glass ionomer (RMGIC) restorations in primary teeth using rubber dam or cotton roll isolation after a 30-month follow-up period. Ninety-two children (mean age 6.8 ± 1.37) and 200 primary molars with occlusal or occluso-proximal cavitated dentin caries lesions were randomly assigned into two groups: cotton rolls and rubber dam. All lesions were restored using RMGIC (RIVA Light Cure) after selective caries removal. Restorative failure and lesion arrestment were evaluated by two independent, trained, and calibrated examiners through clinical and radiographic examinations. The Kaplan-Meier test was used to assess the survival of restorations and Cox regression was used to assess the association of risk factors with restorative failure. There was no significant difference in survival rates between groups (p = 0.17). Older age (HR = 2.81 [95%CI: 1.47-5.44]) and higher rate of gingival bleeding (HR = 0.47 [95%CI: 0.23-0.99]) were associated with restorative failure. No patient had painful symptoms, pulp outcomes, or radiographic changes compatible with lesion progression. The use of rubber dam isolation did not increase the survival rate of occlusal and occluso-proximal restorations using RMGIC in primary molars after 30 months of follow-up. Since the survival is not influenced by the type of isolation, the professional can safely choose the appropriate technique for each case, considering his experience and preferences, as well as those of the patient.

An In-Vitro Comparative Study of Fluoride Varnish and Two Calcium-Containing Fluoride Products on the Remineralization of Primary Teeth Enamel.

Objectives: To compare the effectiveness of fluoride varnish and two calcium-based fluoride products on the remineralization of primary teeth enamel. Materials and Methods: Surface-microhardness (SMH) of 36 extracted anterior primary teeth was measured by Vickers test (50gr/5 seconds) to provide a baseline for later comparisons. All teeth were immersed in demineralizing solution for 96 hours to create caries-like lesions and SMH was determined for the artificially-induced caries. The teeth were randomly assigned to three groups consisting of 5% fluoride varnish once daily/10 seconds, Clinpro™ 5000 toothpaste once daily/2 minutes, and Remin Pro cream once daily/3 minutes for 28 days. All specimens were kept in artificial saliva with pH cycling during the study period. After remineralization, SMH was evaluated for the last time. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, Mauchly's sphericity, and RM-ANOVA with Bonferroni correction for inter-and- intra-group comparisons at the three stages of the study. Results: Neither the baseline SMH nor the SMH of the artificially created caries showed significant differences among the samples (P>0.05). The post-treatment SMH was highest in the Clinpro group (296.4±73.1kgf/mm2), followed by Remin Pro (283.8±119.3kgf/mm2), and varnish (270.9±78.3 kgf/mm2). There was no significant difference among the groups after treatment (P>0.05). We also did not observe a significant difference among the three different study stages (P>0.05). Conclusion: Within the limitations of this in-vitro study, daily application of low fluoride-calcium compound seems to be as effective as the professional use of fluoride varnish or high-content fluoride toothpaste in remineralizing initial caries of primary teeth.

Accuracy of the American Association of Endodontists diagnostic criteria for assessing pulp health in primary teeth.

OBJECTIVES: There is a lack of studies evaluating the accuracy of the 2009 American Association of Endodontists (AAE) diagnostic criteria for diagnosing pulpal health in primary teeth. This study aimed to estimate and correlate the diagnostic accuracy of clinical diagnosis of reversible and irreversible pulpitis using the 2009 AAE criteria with histological findings in primary teeth. METHODS: Eighty primary teeth that were clinically diagnosed with normal pulp (n = 10), reversible pulpitis (n = 30), irreversible pulpitis (n = 30) and pulp necrosis (n = 10) were collected. The teeth were histo-processed, and pulp tissues were diagnosed histologically as uninflamed pulp, reversible or irreversibly inflamed and necrosis based on previously proposed criteria. RESULTS: The clinical diagnosis of pulp necrosis (sensitivity 70%, specificity 96%) and normal pulp (sensitivity 91%, specificity 100%) matched the histological diagnosis of necrosis and uninflamed pulp in 70% and 100%, respectively. The clinical diagnosis of irreversible pulpitis (sensitivity 64%, specificity 72%) matched the histological diagnosis of irreversible pulp inflammation for 47% of teeth evaluated. For the clinical diagnosis of reversible pulpitis (sensitivity: 65%, specificity: 86%), 80% matched the histological diagnosis of reversible pulp inflammation. Teeth with histologically diagnosed irreversible pulp inflammation were more likely to have lingering (OR 5.08; 95% CI 1.48-17.46, P = 0.010) and nocturnal tooth pain (OR 15.86; 95% CI 1.57-160.47, P = 0.019) when compared to teeth with reversible pulp inflammation. Using the classification and regression tree model, the presence of widened periodontal ligament space and nocturnal tooth pain were useful predictors of irreversible pulp inflammation with an accuracy of 78%. CONCLUSION: The 2009 AAE criteria was acceptable for primary teeth with pulp necrosis and normal pulp but poor for reversible pulpitis and irreversible pulpitis.

Microbiological Profile of Primary Teeth with Irreversible Pulpitis and Pulp Necrosis with/without Abscess and their Susceptibility to Three Antibiotics as Intracanal Medication.

Context: The ineffective disinfection potential of conventional intracanal medicaments to eliminate enteropathogens from root canal systems leads to their persistence contributing to endodontic treatment failures. Hence, the use of appropriate intracanal medicament becomes the essential phase to accomplishing comprehensive decontamination of the root canal system. When applied topically as an intracanal medicament, antibiotics eradicate residual microorganisms from tortuous endodontic spaces, minimizing the risk of systemic toxicity. Aims and objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of various bacterial species associated with signs of irreversible pulpitis and pulp necrosis with/without abscess in primary teeth root canals and their susceptibility against three antimicrobial agents. Materials and methods: The pulp tissue and organic debris were retrieved from deciduous teeth (n = 50) from children between the age of 3-10 years and cultured. The bacterial identification and antibacterial profiling of isolated bacteria were done against clindamycin, metronidazole, and doxycycline through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assay. The MIC and MBC of each antibiotic were expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD), range, and standard error (SE of the mean). The intergroup comparisons were done by the Kruskal-Wallis test, while intragroup pair-wise comparisons were done using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The confidence level will be set at 95%. Results: Aerobic bacteria were found in 54%, microaerophilic bacteria in 76%, facultative anaerobes in 26%, and obligatory anaerobes were isolated from 30% of teeth. The intragroup and intergroup comparisons of test agent MIC revealed a nonsignificant difference (p > 0.05). The intragroup MBC comparisons of all the test agents revealed statistically nonsignificant (p > 0.05), while intergroup comparisons demonstrated nonsignificant (p > 0.05) to highly significant difference (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Clindamycin demonstrated promising antibacterial activity against most of the isolated bacteria, while against metronidazole and doxycycline, most of the bacteria were moderate to highly resistant. Clinical significance: Determining the antibacterial agents' efficacy along with modifications can help to target maximum pathogenic microbes and reduce catastrophic endodontic therapy failures. How to cite this article: Dahake PT, Kothari S. Microbiological Profile of Primary Teeth with Irreversible Pulpitis and Pulp Necrosis with/without Abscess and their Susceptibility to Three Antibiotics as Intracanal Medication. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(2):312-320.

Biocompatibility of Ajwain Oil Combined with Eugenol and Zinc Oxide as a Deciduous Root Canal Obturating Material: An In Vivo Study.

Aim and objectives: The present study was intended to assess the biocompatibility of newly formulated materials such as zinc oxide (ZO) admixed with ajwain oil (A) as well as ajwain eugenol (E) (1:1 ratio) against ZOE through an animal model as root canal obturating materials in deciduous teeth. Materials and methods: The study involved randomly selected 24 albino rats, which were divided into three groups based on test materials. Two polyethylene tubes (PETT) (8 mm long × 1 mm internal diameter) were inserted into connective tissues of the dorsal side on either side of each rat viz empty tube (negative control) and another containing test material (test group). Animals were sacrificed at the end of the 7th and 21st days. PETT with surrounding connective tissues were excised. Histopathological evaluations of the material's biocompatibility were done by determining inflammatory tissue responses. Non-parametric tests such as Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U were used for statistical analysis (p < 0.05). Results: Histopathological examination on the 7th day showed increased polymorphonuclear cells for all test materials compared to the negative control (p = 0.92), suggesting acute inflammation. The inflammation subsided gradually after 21 days (p = 0.48). The lymphocytes increased after 21 days for all the materials indicating chronic inflammation (p = 0.79), as well as fibroblasts (p = 0.34) and capillaries (p = 0.35), indicating healing and repair. Conclusion: The newly formulated obturating materials were found to be biocompatible compared to ZOE. How to cite this article: Dahake PT, Joshi SS, Kale YJ, et al. Biocompatibility of Ajwain Oil Combined with Eugenol and Zinc Oxide as a Deciduous Root Canal Obturating Material: An In Vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(3):431-436.

Desenvolvimento de dentes decíduos artificiais para práticas laboratoriais em Odontopediatria / Desarrollo de dientes temporales artificiales para prácticas de laboratorio en Odontopediatría / Development of artificial primary teeth for laboratory practices in Pediatric Dentistry

Na formação em Odontologia os acadêmicos realizam treinos pré-clínicos para aperfeiçoar suas técnicas. O objetivo deste estudo é relatar a experiência de produção de dentes decíduos artificiais por impressão tridimensional (3D), com baixo custo, para práticas laboratoriais acadêmicas em Odontopediatria. Partiu-se de uma pesquisa laboratorial e experimental, tendo sido realizada uma revisão bibliográfica para obtenção dos dados. A obtenção das imagens 3D se deu a partir da biblioteca gratuita de dentes permanentes Brenner e edição no programa Meshmixer para incorporação das características de dentes decíduos, seguida de impressão 3D utilizando estereolitografia. Posteriormente, foram preenchidos os condutos radiculares com cera 7 e poliacetato de vinila (PVA)vermelha. Foi realizada também a pintura do cemento e da coroa, com tinta de esmalte marrom e branca, respectivamente. As duas resinas exibiram fidelidade anatômica externa, entretanto, para viabilidade do uso na Endodontia, foi analisada a anatomia interna, imagem radiográfica, tempo de impressão, custo de produção e custo/benefício. A combinação de resina Anycubic para a representação dos tecidos mineralizados com cera 7 para simulação da polpa possibilitou a adequada reprodução da anatomia interna de dentes decíduos (AU).

En la formación en Odontología, los alumnos realizan una formación preclínica para mejorar sus técnicas. El objetivo de este estudio es relatar la experiencia de producción de dientes temporales artificiales por impresión tridimensional (3D), a bajo costo,para prácticas académicas de laboratorio en Odontopediatría. Se inició con una investigación de laboratorio y experimental, habiéndose realizado una revisión bibliográfica para la obtención de los datos. Las imágenes 3D se obtuvieran de la biblioteca gratuita de dientes permanentes de Brenner y se editó en el programa Meshmixer para incorporar las características de los dientes temporales, seguida de una impresión 3D mediante estereolitografía. Posteriormente se obturaron los conductos radiculares con cera7 y acetato de polivinilo rojo (PVA). El cemento y la corona también se pintaron con pintura de esmalte marrón y blanco, respectivamente. Las dos resinas exhibieron fidelidad anatómica externa, sin embargo, para la factibilidad de uso en Endodoncia se analizó la anatomía interna, imagen radiográfica, tiempo de impresión, costo de producción y costo/beneficio. La combinación de la resina Anycubic para la representación de tejidos mineralizados con la cera 7 para la simulación de la pulpa permitió reproduciradecuadamente la anatomía interna de los dientes temporales (AU).

During Dentistry training, students undertake pre-clinical training to improve their techniques. The objective of this study is to report the experience of producing artificial deciduous teeth using three-dimensional (3D) printing, at low cost, for academic laboratory practices in Pediatric Dentistry. The starting point was laboratory and experimental research, and a bibliographic review was carried out to obtain data. The 3D images were obtained from the free Brenner permanent teeth library and edited in the Meshmixer program to incorporate the characteristics of deciduous teeth, followed by 3D printing using stereolithography. Subsequently, the root canals were filled with wax 7 and red polyvinyl acetate (PVA). The cementum and crown were also painted with brown and white enamel paint, respectively. The two resins exhibited external anatomical fidelity, however, for feasibility of use in Endodontics, the internal anatomy, radiographic image, printing time, production cost and cost/benefit were analyzed. The combination of Anycubic resin to represent mineralized tissues with wax 7 to simulate the pulp made it possible to adequately reproduce the internal anatomy of deciduous teeth (AU).

Pediatric dentistry procedures performed in the Unified Health System in the State of Rio Grande do Sul before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: difference between the years 2018 and 2021 / Procedimientos de odontopediatría realizados en el Sistema Único de Salud del Estado de Rio Grande do Sul antes y durante la pandemia de COVID19: diferencia entre los años 2018 y 2021 / Procedimentos odontopediátricos realizados pelo Sistema Único de Saúde no Rio Grande do Sul, antes e durante a pandemia de covid-19: diferença entre os anos de 2018 e 2021

Objective: To analyze the difference in the number of dental procedures in the primary dentition performed in the Unified Health System in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Descriptive ecological study, using secondary data from the Sistema de Informações Ambulatoriais (SIA-SUS), from 2018 to 2021, in the state and in the seven health macro-regions. The relative and absolute frequencies and the percentage difference of the dental procedures performed were calculated. Results: 94,443 and 36,151 dental procedures were registered before and during the pandemic, respectively, which corresponded to a reduction of 61.7%. Relevant percentage reductions were observed in restorative procedures, which reached 20 percentage points in the southern region of the state. An increase in the percentage of exodontic and endodontic procedures was observed. Conclusion: The results suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic had negative repercussions on the performance of dental procedures in the primary dentition in the state.

Objetivo: Analizar la diferencia en el número de procedimientos odontológicos en dentición temporal realizados en el Sistema Único de Salud del estado de Rio Grande do Sul, antes y durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio ecológico descriptivo, utilizando datos secundarios del Sistema de Información Ambulatorio del SUS (SIA-SUS), de 2018 a 2021, en el estado y en las siete macrorregiones de salud. Se calcularon las frecuencias relativas, absolutas y la diferencia porcentual de los procedimientos odontológicos realizados. Resultados: se registraron 94.443 y 36.151 procedimientos odontológicos antes y durante la pandemia, respectivamente, lo que corresponde a una reducción del 61,7%. Se observaron reducciones porcentuales relevantes en los procedimientos restaurativos, que alcanzaron 20 puntos porcentuales en la región sur del estado. Se observó un aumento en el porcentaje de procedimientos de exodoncia y endodoncia. Conclusión: Los resultados sugieren que la pandemia de COVID-19 tuvo repercusiones negativas en la realización de procedimientos odontológicos en dentición temporal en el estado.

Objetivo: analisar a diferença no número de procedimentos odontológicos na dentição decídua, realizados pelo Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, antes e durante a pandemia de covid-19. Métodos: estudo ecológico descritivo, utilizando-se dados secundários do Sistema de Informações Ambulatoriais do SUS (SIA/SUS), de 2018 a 2021, no estado e em suas sete macrorregiões de saúde; foram calculadas as frequências relativas e absolutas, e a diferença percentual dos procedimentos odontológicos realizados. Resultados: foram registrados 94.443 e 36.151 procedimentos odontológicos antes e durante a pandemia, respectivamente, correspondendo a uma redução de 61,7%; reduções percentuais relevantes foram observadas nos procedimentos restauradores, atingindo 20 pontos percentuais na região Sul do estado; observou-se aumento no percentual de procedimentos exodônticos e endodônticos. Conclusão: os resultados sugerem que a pandemia de covid-19 teve repercussões negativas sobre a realização dos procedimentos odontológicos na dentição decídua, no estado gaúcho.

Effectiveness of comprehensive intervention on primary dental caries in 3-year-old children in Bengbu / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To explore the effectiveness of the comprehensive intervention on prevention of deciduous primary caries in 3-year-old children, so as so provide reference for the prevention, health care and treatment of oral caries.@*Methods@#Three-year-old children selected by drawing lots from 10 public kindergartens in 5 districts of Bengbu were examined in 2021, and were randomly divided into intervention group ( n =300) and control group ( n =300). During the initial examination, caries loss (dmf) including dental caries, missing teeth, filling teeth were assessed in the two groups. At the initial examination, the intervention group received caries intervention while no intervention was administered in the non-intervention group until half a year later. Intervention measures included education, diet, self-cleaning and fluoride application intervention. The number of cases and the mean of caries loss in the two groups were compared by χ 2 test.@*Results@#Before the intervention, 43 children in the control group suffered from caries, with 88 dmf, including 44 dmf for boys and 44 dmf for girls. There were 45 children in the intervention group, with 101 dmf, including 49 dmf for boys and 52 dmf for girls. There was no significant difference in the number of dmf between the intervention group and the control group ( χ 2=0.91, P >0.05), and there was no significant difference in the prevalence rate (15.0%, 14.3%, χ 2=0.05, P >0.05). After the intervention, there were 26 new dental caries and 43 dmf in intervention group, including 25 dmf for boys and 18 dmf for girls. In the control group, there were 83 new dental caries and 168 dmf, including 72 dmf for boys and 96 dmf for girls. Compared with the control group, the new dmf in the intervention group was significantly different ( χ 2=75.38, P < 0.05). The number of new dental caries patients in the intervention group was significantly different from that in the control group ( χ 2=36.42, P <0.05).@*Conclusion@#Comprehensive interventions to prevent dental caries can significantly reduce the incidence of primary teeth caries in children. It is suggested to intervene dental caries as early as possible to reduce the incidence of dental caries and other oral diseases.

Effectiveness of non-operative approaches in active enamel carious lesions: a retrospective longitudinal study

Abstract The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of non-invasive and micro-invasive treatments in active enamel carious lesions in high-caries-risk children. Clinical records of children treated in a dental school setting were retrospectively screened for active enamel carious lesions treated non-invasively (topical fluoride applications, oral hygiene instruction, or dietary guidance) or micro-invasively (sealant). The control of active carious lesions was set as the main outcome established by the combination of inactivation and non-progression of the lesions based on Nyvad and ICDAS criteria, respectively. Individual and clinical factors associated with the outcome were analyzed by Poisson regression. The sample consisted of 105 high-caries-risk children with a mean age of 8.3 (± 2.4) years. From a total of 365 active enamel carious lesions, most lesions (84.1%) were active non-cavitated carious lesions (ICDAS scores 1 and 2) and only 15.9% presented localized enamel breakdown (ICDAS score 3). Of these, 72.6% were inactivated and 92.1% did not progress (mean time of 6.5 ± 4.1 months). The prevalence of controlled carious lesions was higher among children older than 6 years (PR:1.43; 95%CI:1.00-2.03; p = 0.04) and in those with better biofilm control (PR:0.99; 95%CI: 0.98-0.99; p = 0.03). Non-operative approaches are effective for controlling active enamel carious lesions. The majority of active enamel carious lesions became inactive and did not progress after treatment. Caries control was associated with older children and better biofilm control.

Dimensions of Occlusoproximal Cavitated Carious Lesions as a Cut-Off Point for Restorative Decision in Primary Teeth

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate whether the dimensions of cavitated dentin carious lesions on the occlusoproximal surfaces of primary teeth could predict the location of cement-enamel junction (CEJ). Material and Methods: Two hundred extracted primary molars were selected and digital images were obtained. The teeth were set in arch models for clinical measurement. The cervical-occlusal (CO) and buccal-lingual/palatal (BL/P) cavities' dimensions were obtained by digital (Image J) and clinical (periodontal millimeter probe) assessments. The cervical margin location was also determined. The thresholds (cut-off points) were determined by sensitivity, specificity and the areas under the receiver operating characteristics curves (Az) for the two methods. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to investigate the correlation between clinical and digital measurements. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between the dimensions and cervical margin location. Results: There was a strong correlation between methods for all measurements (CO: r=0.90, VL/P: r=0.95). Cavities with BL/P distance higher than 4.5 mm and CO dimension higher than 3.5 mm had a lower chance of presenting the cervical limit above the CEJ, irrespective of the measurement method. Conclusion: CO and VL/P dimensions could be used to predict the CEJ location and, ultimately, as a clinical parameter for restorative decision-making.

Tumor necrosis factor α, and agonist and antagonists of cannabinoid receptor type 1 and type 2 alter the immunophenotype of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth

ABSTRACT Objective To verify the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the immunomodulatory profile of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth, in the presence or absence of TNF-α, and agonist and antagonists of CB1 and CB2. Methods Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth were cultured in the presence or absence of an agonist, anandamide, and two antagonists, AM251 and SR144528, of CB1 and CB2 receptors, with or without TNF-α stimulation. For analysis of immunomodulation, surface molecules linked to immunomodulation, namely human leukocyte antigen-DR isotype (HLA-DR), and programmed death ligands 1 (PD-L1) and 2 (PD-L2) were measured using flow cytometry. Results The inhibition of endocannabinoid receptors together with the proinflammatory effect of TNF-α resulted in increased HLA-DR expression in stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth, as well as, in these cells acquiring an anti-inflammatory profile by enhancing the expression of PD-L1 and PD-L2. Conclusion Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth respond to the endocannabinoid system and TNF-α by altering key immune response molecules.

Association of salivary parameters and erosive tooth wear in preschool children

Abstract The aims of this study were to 1) assess the association between erosive tooth wear (ETW) according to the BEWE (Basic Erosive Wear Examination) scoring system and salivary parameters and 2) compare salivary parameters according to ETW severity in the subgroup of children with ETW. This cross-sectional study included 52 preschool children aged 5 years paired by sex. A calibrated examiner assessed ETW using BEWE criteria, and stimulated saliva was collected to determine salivary flow, osmolality, pH, and buffering capacity. The children were divided into two groups: without ETW (n=26; BEWE score 0) and with ETW (n=26; BEWE scores 1 and 2). Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the magnitude of the association between ETW and salivary parameters and estimates of odds ratios (OR). In the unadjusted analysis, the ETW group was more likely to have lower salivary flow (OR = 0.079; 95%CI = 0.013-0.469; p = 0.005) and lower osmolality (OR = 0.993; 95%CI = 0.985-1.000; p = 0.049). In the adjusted analysis, salivary flow remained significantly associated with ETW (OR = 0.087; 95%CI = 0.014-0.533; p = 0.008). Lower salivary osmolality values were observed in ETW, especially in preschool children with more severe ETW (BEWE score 2). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) determined a salivary osmolality cutoff point of < 201 for the presence of ETW. In conclusion, salivary flow rate was significantly associated with ETW prevalence. Lower values of salivary osmolality were observed in preschool children with distinct erosive lesions with significant loss of tooth structure (BEWE 2).

Survival rate of the Hall technique compared with resin composite restoration in multi-surface cavities in primary teeth: a 1-year randomized clinical trial

Abstract Background Hall technique (HT) has been indicated for teeth with dentinal caries lesion; however, extensive cavities, with more than two surfaces still seem challenging for restorative treatment in pediatric dentistry, resulting in a higher failure rate and an increased need for retreatment. Objectives To compare the survival rate of the Hall technique preformed metal crown (HT) with resin composite restoration (RC) for multi-surface cavitated caries lesions in primary molars. Methodology In this multicenter two-arm randomized clinical trial, children between 4 and 9 years of age with at least one primary molar with cavitated caries lesion involving more than two surfaces, including one buccal or palatal/lingual surface, were selected from 17 Brazilian cities. A total of 364 teeth were allocated into two groups: (1) teeth treated with selective caries removal and RC and (2) treated with the HT. The survival rate was assessed at 6 and 12 months after the interventions. Survival analysis was performed with the Kaplan‒Meier method. Cox regression was used to determine the influence of explanatory variables on the survival rate (α=5%). Results After 12 months, 292 teeth were re-evaluated. A total of 358 teeth were re-evaluated at least once during the study and included in the survival analysis. The HT (87.8%) resulted in a higher survival rate than RC restoration (75.7%) (p=0.004). Conclusion HT has a higher survival rate than RC as a treatment for multi-surface cavitated caries lesions in primary teeth. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02782390

Randomized Clinical Study of the Use of MTA and Biodentine™ for Pulpotomy in Primary Teeth

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify, through clinical and radiographic evaluations, the in vivo response of the dentin-pulpal complex of human primary teeth after pulpotomy with MTA and Biodentine™ in a follow-up period of 3, 6, and 12 months. Material and Methods: Thirty teeth were divided into MTA pulpotomy (n = 15) and Biodentine™ pulpotomy (n = 15) from children between 5 and 9 years of age, a randomized clinical trial with simple random sampling. The materials were inserted into the cavity after opening and removing the coronary pulp tissue. The cavity base consisted of glass ionomer cement and light-cured composite resin restoration. Clinical and radiographic analyses were performed after 3, 6, and 12 months. Statistical analysis by Fisher's exact test for dichotomous data at a 5% significance level was utilized. Results: Both materials caused color change after 12 months. However, MTA showed a higher percentage than Biodentine™ (p<0.0001). Pain was detected only with Biodentine™ at six months and mobility at 12 months (p=0.0013). Radiographically, after 12 months, periapical lesions, interradicular lesions, and internal resorption were evidenced in 13% of the cases for Biodentine™-treated teeth (p<0.0013). MTA induced pulp calcification in 13% of cases, unlike Biodentine™ (p<0.0013). Conclusion: BiodentineTM and MTA are suitable for clinical use in pulpotomy treatment, yet both materials lead to tooth discoloration.

Non-Invasive Methods and the Use of Infiltrating Resins for the Control of Caries Progression in Deciduous Teeth: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the influence of non-invasive treatment associated with the use of infiltrating resin for managing caries lesions in primary teeth. Material and Methods: A systematic review was performed by selecting articles from 6 online databases, using a search algorithm and eligibility criteria for data extraction and data synthesis for the papers included. Clinical trials involving primary teeth with incipient caries lesions (1/2 of the enamel or 1/3 of the outer dentin) were included, presenting full text and answering the study's guiding question. This study used the RoB 2 tool for the risk of bias assessment and GRADE for certainty of evidence. Random effects meta-analyses were implemented, and lesion progression treatment effects were estimated through relative risk (RR) and associated 95% confidence intervals. Results: A total of 440 studies were found. After analyzing the inclusion criteria and removal of duplicates, eight studies were analyzed for quality evidence. Five of the eight studies included in this review contributed to the meta-analysis, all with some reflections regarding the risk of bias. Overall, the results of the meta-analysis showed that non-invasive treatment, when associated with the use of infiltrating resins, significantly reduced the risk of caries progression in relation to the treatment without this addition for follow-up periods ranging from 12 months to 2 years (RR 0.51 [0.40-0.65]). Conclusion: There is moderate certainty of evidence that the use of infiltrating resins associated with non-invasive treatments decreases the risk of caries progression in primary teeth with incipient caries lesions (1/2 of the enamel or 1/3 of the dentin outer) when combined with non-invasive control methods alone.

Associated factors and treatment options for sleep bruxism in children: an umbrella review

Abstract Data on clinical management options for sleep bruxism in the primary dentition are inconclusive. This umbrella review aimed to synthesize the available evidence from systematic reviews (SRs) on the associated factors and treatment approaches for clinical management of sleep bruxism in children. A search was conducted in the MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and OpenGrey databases up to March 2022. SRs published on sleep bruxism in children containing data on associated factors or treatment outcomes were included. The AMSTAR-2 tool was used to assess the methodological quality of SRs. The search identified 444 articles, of which six were included. Sleep conditions, respiratory changes, personality traits, and psychosocial factors were the associated factors commonly identified. Treatments included psychological and pharmacological therapies, occlusal devices, physical therapy, and surgical therapy. All SRs included presented a high risk of bias. Overlapping of the included studies was considered very high. The best evidence available to date for the management of sleep bruxism in children is based on associated factors, with sleep duration and conditions, respiratory changes, as well as personality traits and psychosocial factors being the most important factors commonly reported by studies. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to make recommendations for specific treatment options.

Procedimentos odontopediátricos realizados pelo Sistema Único de Saúde no Rio Grande do Sul, antes e durante a pandemia de covid-19: diferença entre os anos de 2018 e 2021 / Procedimientos de odontopediatría realizados en el Sistema Único de Salud del estado de Rio Grande do Sul antes y durante la pandemia de COVID-19: diferencia entre los años 2018 y 2021 / Pediatric dentistry procedures performed within the Brazilian National Health System in the state of Rio Grande do Sul before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: difference between the years 2018 and 2021

Objective: to analyze the difference in the number of primary teeth dental procedures performed within the Brazilian National Health System (SUS) in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: this was a descriptive ecological study, using secondary data from the SUS Outpatient Information System (SIA-SUS), from 2018 to 2021, in the state and in its seven health macro-regions; we calculated the relative and absolute frequencies and the percentage difference of the dental procedures performed. Results: 94,443 and 36,151 dental procedures were recorded before and during the pandemic, respectively, corresponding to a 61.7% reduction; relevant percentage reductions were found in restorative procedures, which reached 20% in the southern region of the state; an increase in the percentage of exodontic and endodontic procedures was found. Conclusion: the results suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic had negative repercussions on the performance of primary teeth dental procedures in Rio Grande do Sul.

Objetivo: analizar la diferencia en el número de procedimientos odontológicos en dentición temporal realizados en el Sistema Único de Salud del estado de Rio Grande do Sul, antes y durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos: estudio ecológico descriptivo, utilizando datos secundarios del Sistema de Información Ambulatorio del SUS (SIA-SUS), de 2018 a 2021, en el estado y en las siete macrorregiones de salud. Se calcularon las frecuencias relativas, absolutas y la diferencia porcentual de los procedimientos odontológicos realizados. Resultados: se registraron 94.443 y 36.151 procedimientos odontológicos antes y durante la pandemia, respectivamente, lo que corresponde a una reducción del 61,7%. Se observaron reducciones porcentuales relevantes en los procedimientos restaurativos, que alcanzaron 20 puntos porcentuales en la región sur del estado. Se observó un aumento en el porcentaje de procedimientos de exodoncia y endodoncia. Conclusión: los resultados sugieren que la pandemia de COVID-19 tuvo repercusiones negativas en la realización de procedimientos odontológicos en dentición temporal en el estado.

Objetivo: analisar a diferença no número de procedimentos odontológicos na dentição decídua, realizados pelo Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, antes e durante a pandemia de covid-19. Métodos: estudo ecológico descritivo, utilizando-se dados secundários do Sistema de Informações Ambulatoriais do SUS (SIA/SUS), de 2018 a 2021, no estado e em suas sete macrorregiões de saúde; foram calculadas as frequências relativas e absolutas, e a diferença percentual dos procedimentos odontológicos realizados. Resultados: foram registrados 94.443 e 36.151 procedimentos odontológicos antes e durante a pandemia, respectivamente, correspondendo a uma redução de 61,7%; reduções percentuais relevantes foram observadas nos procedimentos restauradores, atingindo 20 pontos percentuais na região Sul do estado; observou-se aumento no percentual de procedimentos exodônticos e endodônticos. Conclusão: os resultados sugerem que a pandemia de covid-19 teve repercussões negativas sobre a realização dos procedimentos odontológicos na dentição decídua, no estado.

Consequências da perda/extração precoce de dente(s) decíduo(s) anterior(es) em bebês e crianças / Consequences of premature loss/extraction of primary anterior teeth in babies and children

Avaliaram-se consequências da perda precoce de dentes decíduos anteriores por meio de três fases. Na 1a, realizou-se levantamento da evidência científica disponível por meio de revisão sistemática e meta-análise (RS), revisão crítica da literatura (RC) e e-book. A RS foi dividida em seleção dos artigos, extração de dados, risco de viés, meta-análise e certeza da evidência; na RC, realizou-se compilação dos dados e análise crítica. Por fim, as informações foram organizadas em e-book com fins educativos. Na 2a, realizaram-se dois estudos (Es) de concordância e reprodutibilidade, para avaliar instrumentos em modelos de estudo (Es1) e na clínica (Es2). No Es1, dois avaliadores treinados e calibrados realizaram mensurações diretamente com paquímetro digital e compasso de pontas secas em 40 modelos de gesso de bebês/crianças com idade entre 1 e 5 anos, com e sem perdas dentárias, comparados à medidas digitais feitas em software pós escaneamento 3D. Foram avaliadas 6 medidas dentárias lineares (MDL): espaço mésio-distal da perda dentária (EPD) (se houvesse), perímetro do arco, comprimento do arco, largura do arco, comprimento intercaninos e largura intercaninos. O Es2 comparou paquímetro digital e compasso de pontas secas para mensuração clínica do EPD realizada por dois operadores independentes em 15 bebês/crianças com idade entre 2 a 6 anos. Na 3a, estudo longitudinal de coorte avaliou consequências da perda precoce anterior nos arcos dentários e no desenvolvimento da oclusão de outros 15 bebês/crianças de 1 a 5 anos comparados à bebês/crianças sem perdas dentárias após 24 meses de acompanhamento. Foram realizados exame de oclusão, mensuração clínica do EPD com paquímetro digital e documentação com fotografias intrabucais e confecção de modelos de estudo pela impressão dos arcos. Essas etapas foram realizadas no tempo zero (T0) e repetidas após 24 meses (T1). Os modelos foram escaneados em scanner ótico 3D e realizaram-se MDL em software digital. As medidas digitais foram repetidas após 1 mês para avaliação do erro do método. A análise estatística de cada fase foi desenvolvida individualmente utilizando: coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI), Bland-Altman, teste-t, Shapiro-Wilk e teste de Levene's, adotando nível de significância de 0,05%. Dos estudos selecionados na meta-análise (n=4), verificouse que crianças que perderam dentes decíduos anteriores apresentaram maior chance de sofrer distorção da fala do que crianças sem perdas com baixa certeza de evidência (OR 5,466 [1,689, 17,692] p=0,005). Por outro lado, não houve diferença estatística entre esta perda e omissão ou substituição de fonemas, ambos com muito baixa certeza de evidência. Com relação ao Es1, o CCI inter-examinador foi considerado excelente variando de 0,93 a 1,00 e a concordância entre os instrumentos foi boa com média da diferença variando de -0,034mm (-1,077; 1,145) a -1,002mm (-2,632; 0,627). No Es2, o CCI inter-examinador também foi excelente com valor médio de 0,99 e houve concordância entre os instrumentos. No estudo de coorte, não houve diferença clínica significativa no EPD (p=0,938). Valores CCI intraexaminador foram variaram de 0,73 a 1,00. A precisão do método foi adequada, sem evidência de viés de proporção. Não houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas MDL tanto do grupo exposto quanto do não-exposto (p>0,05). Alterações nos arcos dentários e no desenvolvimento da oclusão puderam ser evidenciadas por meio da análise descritiva, incluindo: esfoliação e erupção de dentes decíduos, erupção de dentes permanentes, autocorreção e estabelecimento de maloclusões, entre outros. A presente tese concluiu que a perda precoce anterior pode causar distorção da fala, com baixa certeza de evidência. Demonstrou que MDL podem ser realizadas com boa concordância e reprodutibilidade em modelos de gesso com paquímetro digital e compasso de pontas secas e em modelos digitais com software. Demonstrou que, paquímetro digital e compasso de pontas secas podem ser utilizados com boa concordância e reprodutibilidade para mensuração clínica do EPD. Por fim, não houve diferenças nos arcos dentários e no desenvolvimento da oclusão de bebês/crianças com perda precoce anterior em comparação aos sem perdas. Entretanto, alterações fisiológicas e patológicas foram diagnosticadas clinicamente em ambos os grupos, destacando a importância da análise clínica e qualitativa. AU)

Consequences of premature loss of primary anterior teeth were evaluated through three phases. In 1st, a survey of available scientific evidence was conducted through systematic review and meta-analysis (SR), critical literature review (CR), and e-book development. SR was divided into article selection, data extraction, risk of bias, meta-analysis, and certainty of evidence; while CR was composed by data compilation and critical analysis. Finally, all data were organized into an e-book for educational purposes. In 2nd, two studies (S) of agreement and reproducibility were performed to evaluate measurement instruments in study models (S1) and in the clinic (S2). In S1, two trained and calibrated operators performed dental linear measurements (DLM) with compass and digital caliper directly on 40 plaster models of infants/children aged from 1 to 5 years old, with and without tooth losses, compared to digital measurements made in software after 3D scanning. Two trained and calibrated operators measured models with compass, digital caliper, and digital software. Six DLM were evaluated: missing tooth space (MTS) (if any), arch perimeter, arch length, arch width, intercanine length and intercanine width. S2 compared compass and digital caliper for clinical measurement of MTS in 15 infants/children aged between 2 and 6 years old. In 3rd, a longitudinal observational cohort study was conducted to evaluate consequences of premature anterior loss on dental arches and occlusion development in 15 infants/children aged 1 to 5 years compared to participants without teeth losses. Occlusion examination was performed, MTS measurement with digital caliper, and recording through intraoral photographs and study models preparation by impression of upper and lower arches. These steps were performed at baseline (T0) and repeated after a minimum of 24 months (T1). The models were scanned with a 3D optical scanner and DLM were performed with digital software. All digital measurements were repeated after 1 month to evaluate method error. Statistical analysis of each phase was individually Shapiro-Wilk and Levene's test, adopting a significance level of 0.05%. From the studies selected in meta-analyses (n = 4), it was found that children who lost primary anterior teeth had a greater chance of suffering speech distortion than children without tooth loss with low certainty of evidence (OR 5.466 [1.689, 17.692] p=0.005). On the other hand, there was no statistical difference between tooth loss and phoneme omission and substitution, both with very low certainty of evidence. Regarding E1, inter-rater ICC was considered excellent varying from 0.93 to 1.00 and agreement between the instruments was good, varying from 0.034mm (-1.077; 1.145) a -1.002mm (-2.632; 0.627). In E2, inter-rater ICC was also considered excellent with mean value being 0.99 and there was no statistically significant difference between the instruments, also indicating agreement, regardless of the operator. In cohort study, there was no significant change in clinical MTS measurement (p = 0.938). ICC values ranged from 0.73 to 1.00. Method accuracy was adequate and there was no evidence of proportion bias. There were no statistically significant changes in DLM of both exposed and non-exposed groups (p>0.05). Changes in dental arches and occlusion development were evidenced by descriptive analysis, including: exfoliation and eruption of primary teeth, eruption of permanent teeth, self-correction and establishment of malocclusion, among others. In this thesis, it was concluded that premature loss of primary anterior teeth could cause speech distortion, with low certainty of evidence. It was shown that DLM could be performed with good agreement and reproducibility both on plaster models with compass and digital caliper, and on digital models with software. It was also demonstrated that both compass and digital caliper could be used with good agreement and reproducibility for MTS measurements. Finally, there were no statistically changes in dental arches and occlusion development of infants and children with premature loss of primary anterior teeth compared to those without losses. However, physiological and pathological changes were clinically diagnosed in both groups, highlighting the importance of clinical follow-up and descriptive analysis. (AU)

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the oral health of children: a cross-sectional study among iranian parents

Parents are responsible for their children's health care, and their oral health-related knowledge, attitude, and habits can affect their children's oral health. Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate parents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding their children's oral health. Methods: In this study, a sample of 398 parents of 4- to 6-year-old children completed a self-designed questionnaire. The parents' oral health-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices were assessed. Children's oral health was evaluated using decayed, missing, and filled tooth index (dmft). Data were analyzed using the SPSS version 23.0 with a p < 0.05 as statistically significant. Categorical data were reported as frequency (%), and continuous data were reported as mean ± SD. Moreover, Spearman's correlation, multiple regression, Mann-Whitney test, Kruskal Wallis test, and Kolmogorov-Smirnov test were used. Results: Most of the parents had a satisfactory level of knowledge and positive attitudes regarding their children's oral health. The knowledge and attitude scores were higher among parents with higher education (p<0.001), and the knowledge score was higher among mothers (p=0.004). Also, the attitude score was correlated with the number of decayed, missed, and filled teeth of children (p=0.01, p=0.04, and p=0.007, respectively). However, there was no significant relationship between dmft and the parents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices using multiple regression. The mean dmft of children was 6.86 ± 3.56, and most of the parents had poor oral health-related practices. Conclusion: The parents' level of knowledge and attitudes were satisfactory, but they had poor oral health practices. Moreover, there was no significant relationship between children's oral health and their parents' level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Educating programs and strategies are needed to enhance parents' oral health-related attitudes and knowledge and, more importantly, change their oral health practices