Clinical Peri-Implant Parameters and Marginal Bone Loss for Early Mandibular Implant Overdentures: A Follow-Up of 60 Months.

Background and Objectives: Despite the identified benefits of early implant loading, studies have questioned its advantages compared to delayed loading in edentulous patients. This study aimed to evaluate clinical peri-implant parameters and marginal bone loss around early placed and loaded mandibular implant overdentures with a 60-month follow-up. Materials and Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 43 patients were enrolled to receive 86 early loading sub-crestal dental implants through prosthetic guides. Implant overdentures were supported by two isolated implant locator attachments between two mental foramens. Clinical peri-implant parameters, including plaque index (PI), bleeding index (BI), peri-implant pocket depth (PIPD), and marginal bone loss (MBL) were evaluated using standardized techniques at 1, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months follow-up. At 60 months, complications associated with implant overdentures (IOD's) were noted. The mean comparison of peri-implant clinical parameters was performed through ANOVA test. A p-value of ≤0.05 was taken as significant. Results: Out of the total 43 enrolled patients, 8 patients were lost during follow-up; as a result, 35 patients completed the 5 years follow-up. The mean values of PI, BI, and PIPD increased with no statistical difference (p > 0.05). For marginal bone loss, an increase in the mean values was noted at different time intervals with statistical differences (p < 0.001). The most common complications noted were loosening of the abutment, occlusal adjustment, retentive locator loosening and replacement, and relining of the denture. Conclusions: Early placement of IODs failed to prevent bone loss over time and was associated with complications, predominantly consisting of abutment loosening, occlusal adjustments, broken retentive locator components, relining, and rebasing.

Comparison of the postoperative anti-inflammatory efficacy of chlorhexidine, saline rinses and herbal mouthwashes after mechanical debridement in patients with peri-implant mucositis: A randomized controlled trial.

AIM: The null hypothesis is that there is no difference in the post-operative anti-inflammatory efficacy of chlorhexidine (CHX), 2% saline rinses (SR) and a herbal mouthwash (MW) after non-surgical mechanical debridement (MD) for treatment of peri-implant mucositis (PiM). The aim was to compare the post-operative anti-inflammatory efficacy of CHX, 2% SR and a herbal oral rinse after non-surgical MD of PiM. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present randomized controlled trial had a single-blinded parallel arm design. Patients diagnosed with PiM were enrolled. Demographic information was recorded. All patients underwent MD and were randomly divided into 4 groups: CHX-group: 0.12% non-alcoholic CHX; Sodium chloride (NaCl) group: 2% NaCl rinses; Herbal MW group: Herbal-based MW and H2 O group: distilled water with peppermint flavour. After MD, all the participants were advised to rinse twice daily (every 12 hrs) for 2 weeks with their respective MWs. In all groups, peri-implant modified plaque index (mPI), modified gingival index (mGI) and probing depth (PD) were measured at baseline and at 12 weeks of follow-up. Sample size was estimated using data from a pilot investigation; and group-comparisons were performed. Statistical significance was confirmed when P-values were below 0.01. RESULTS: Sixty individuals (15 patients/group) were included. At baseline, mPI, mGI and PD were comparable in all groups. At baseline, there was no significant difference in peri-implant mPI, mGI and PD in all groups. At 12-weeks' follow-up, there was a statistically significant reduction in peri-implant mPI (p < 0.01), mGI (p < 0.01) and PD (p < 0.01) in CHX, NaCl and herbal MW groups compared with H2 O group. There was no significant relation between implant location, duration for which, implants were functional, gender and peri-implant clinical parameters in all groups. CONCLUSION: After non-surgical MD, post-operative use of CHX and herbal and NaCl MWs is useful for the management of PiM in the short-term.

Influence of time and hydration (ageing) on flexural strength of Yttrium stabilized Zirconia polycrystals (Y-TZP) fabricated with different CAD-CAM Systems.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of time and hydration (ageing) on flexural strength of yttrium-stabilized zirconia polycrystals (Y-TZP) zirconia fabricated from three different materials. METHODS: This in-vitro study was performed from June to September 2019. Y-TZP bars, measuring 2 x 3 x 20 mm were prepared and sintered from three different materials, Group-1: LAVA™ Zirconia (3M ESPE, US) (control) Group-2: Vita In-Ceram YZ (VITA, Germany) and Group-3: Aadva™ Zirconia (Zr) (GC Advanced technologies Inc.). 30 zirconia bars per group were prepared using sectioning of blocks with isomet saw. Followed by sintering in furnaces for recommended temperature cycles. One side of bars were polished and beveled for flexural testing. Groups of specimens were divided into subgroups of 3 (n=10) based on the ageing (distilled water in the incubator at 37ºC) durations (48 Hrs and two and half years). Ten specimens in each material groups were not aged (controls). Samples were exposed to a static force in a three-point bend test using a universal instron-testing machine until fracture. Scanning electron microscopic assessment was performed for fractured specimens for ageing. Data was analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test. RESULTS: The mean flexural strength at baseline for Group-1: LAVA™ Zirconia, group (632.7 ± 136.5 MPa) 2: Vita In-Ceram YZ (1036.3 ± 229.6 MPa), and Group-3: Aadva™ Zirconia (1171.3 ± 266.3 MPa) were significantly different. Group-2 and Group-3 specimens showed higher strength compared to Group-1 specimens, irrespective of the ageing duration (p<0.05). Analysis of pooled data for flexural strength for materials by aging period (baseline, after 48 hours and after 2 and ½ years) showed that there was significant reduction of strength with increasing duration (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Y-TZP showed variations in flexural strength depending on the material type. Ageing duration exhibited significant influence on the flexural strength of Y-TZP when comparing no ageing to two and half years. Vita In-Ceram YZ and Aadva Zirconia (Zr) showed higher and clinically acceptable flexural strength outcomes.

Influence of contemporary CAD-CAM milling systems on the fit and adaptation of partially stabilized Zirconia fixed partial dentures.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate marginal fit and internal adaptation of three-unit Zr frameworks fabricated from four Zr CAD/CAM milling systems. METHODS: Fixed partial denture models were replicated (40 stone models) using Polyvinyl Siloxane impression material (PVS) and type IV stone for Zr framework fabrication. FPDs were milled with four CAD/CAM systems, Group-II: LAVAL Zirconia milled by LAVA , Group-2: Vita In-Ceram YZ milled by Cerec®, Group-3: Zirconia milled by GM1000 and Group-4: Zirconia milled by DWX-50N. Twelve marginal gap measurements per framework were performed at pre-established points, with a metallurgical microscope (Zeiss, Germany) at 500X magnification. Eight measurements of cement space per section were performed for adaptation. Data was analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test. RESULTS: Zirconia FPD frameworks exhibited gaps ranging from 16 to 50.1 µm for marginal fit and 26.8 to 102.5 µm for internal adaptation. Group-3 [20.8 (8.3) µm & 50.3 (11.4) µm] and Group-4 [16.0 (4.0) µm & 40.2 (8.8) µm] specimens showed significantly lower marginal fit and internal adaptation gaps compared to Group-I [50.1 (13.4) µm & 100.5 (16.7) µm] and Group-2 [38.9 (8.2) µm & 102.5 (13.4) µm] specimens respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Different CAD-CAM systems for fabrication of Zr FPD frameworks displayed a significant influence on marginal fit and internal adaptation of restorations.

Current weight of evidence of viruses associated with peri-implantitis and peri-implant health: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The pathological role of human herpesviruses (HHVs) (Epstein-Barr virus [EBV], Human cytomegalovirus [CMV], and Herpes simplex virus [HSV]) in peri-implant health needs clarification quantitatively. To determine the weight of evidence for HHVs in patients with peri-implantitis (PI) and substantiate the significance of HHVs in peri-implant inflammation, electronic databases including EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane Oral Health Group Trials Register, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from 1964 up to and including November 2018. Meta-analyses were conducted for prevalence of HHVs in PI and healthy controls. Forest plots were generated that recorded risk difference (RD) of outcomes and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Five clinical studies were considered and included. Four clinical studies reported data on EBV while three clinical studies reported data on CMV. Considering the risk of these viruses in PI, significant heterogeneity for CMV (χ2  = 53.37, p < 0.0001, I2  = 96.25%) and EBV (χ2  = 14.14, p = 0.002, I2  = 78.79%) prevalence was noticed between PI and healthy control sites. The overall RD for only EBV (RD = 0.20, 95% CI, 0.01-0.40, p = 0.03) was statistically significant between both groups. Frequencies of the viruses were increased in patients with PI compared with healthy nondiseased sites. However, the findings of the present study should be interpreted with caution because of significant heterogeneity and small number of included studies.

Assessment of matrix metalloproteinase-8 and -9 levels in the peri-implant sulcular fluid among waterpipe (narghile) smokers and never-smokers with peri-implantitis.

OBJECTIVES: It is hypothesized that levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-8 and MMP-9 are significantly higher in the peri-implant sulcular fluid (PISF) of waterpipe-smokers (WS) compared with never-smokers with peri-implantitis. The aim of the present convenience sample case-control study was to compare the levels of MMP-8 and MMP-9 in the PISF of WS and never-smokers with peri-implantitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Individuals smoking waterpipe (Group 1) and never-smokers (Group 2) were included. Demographic data was collected using a questionnaire. Peri-implant probing depth (PPD) was measured and crestal bone loss (CBL) was measured on digital bitewing radiographs. PISF samples were collected using paper strips and the collected PISF volume was determined. Levels of MMP-8 and MMP-9 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Study sample-size was estimated and statistical analysis was performed. p values < .05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Sixty-six individuals (33 individuals in Group 1 and 33 in Group 2) were included. In Groups 1 and 2, 41 and 44 implants, respectively were placed. The mean total PPD (p < .001) and peri-implant CBL (p < .001) was statistically significantly higher around implants affected by peri-implantitis in Group 1 compared with Group 2. The PISF volume (p < .05) collected and levels of MMP-8 (p < .01) and MMP-9 (p < .01) were statistically significantly higher among individuals in Group 1 compared with Group 2. CONCLUSION: PISF levels of MMP-8 and MMP-9 are significantly higher among WS compared with never-smokers with peri-implantitis.

Evaluation of Peri-Implant Parameters and Functional Outcome of Immediately Placed and Loaded Mandibular Overdentures: A 5-year Follow-up Study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the peri-implant parameters of immediately placed and loaded mandibular overdentures over a 5-year follow-up period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All subjects who had been advised and planned for two-implant mandibular overdenture treatment were included in this study. The peri-implant parameters -including plaque index (PI), bleeding index (BI) and peri-implant pocket depth (PIPD) as well as marginal bone loss (MBL) - were assessed. In addition, prosthodontic parameters including abutment-, implant- and denture-related complications were assessed. Patients were evaluated at follow-up visits, scheduled at 1, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months. The data distribution was analysed with the Shapiro-Wilk test. Data within follow-up categories were compared using ANOVA and the Tukey-Kramer test. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Among the 32 participants, 19 were males and 13 were females, with a mean age of 60.5 ± 7.33. The mean plaque index (PI), bleeding index (BI) and peri-implant pocket depth (PIPD) varied over time. However, no statistically significant difference was observed in the plaque index, bleeding index and peri-implant pocket depth over time (p > 0.05). The mean value at baseline was found to be -0.9 ± 0.3. The values increased over time, with the highest value observed at 60 months 2.6 ± 0.7, which was statistically significant (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Immediately placed and loaded mandibular implant overdentures using two un-splinted implants with locator attachments showed acceptable PI, BI and PIPD at the 5-year follow-up. Statistically significantly greater marginal bone loss was observed from baseline to follow-up, but it was within acceptable limits. A moderate number of restorative and abutment complications were observed during the follow-up of IODs.

Clinical, Bacterial, and Prosthodontic Parameters After Implant Abutment Disinfection Using Nd:YAG, Er,Cr:YSGG, Chlorhexidine, and Conventional Steam Before Prosthesis Delivery.

Objective: This 1-year prospective clinical trial was designed to assess the microbial, clinical, radiographic, and prosthetic parameters after disinfection of the implant abutment connection using Er,Cr:YSGG (erbium, chromium-doped: yttrium, scandium, gallium, and garnet) and Nd:YAG (neodymium-doped yttrium, aluminum, garnet). Materials and methods: All the patients were divided into four groups; Group I: Nd:YAG laser, Group II: Er,Cr:YSGG laser, Group III: 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHx), and Group IV: steam disinfection. Peri-implant parameters assessed included peri-implant bleeding scores (PIBS), peri-implant plaque scores (PIPS), peri-implant pocket depth (PIPD), and crestal bone loss (CBL). The peri-implant plaque samples were acquired to perform microbiological analysis to assess Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, and Tannerella forsythia, respectively. All measurements were completed at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months postsurgery. Multiple groups were compared with the help of the Bonferroni post-hoc adjustment test (p < 0.01). Logistic regression models were utilized to assess the association between age, oral hygiene practices (brushing and flossing), and duration of implant function. Results: At the baseline level, there were no discernible differences in the peri-implant parameters between the study groups (p > 0.05). At the 6-month (p < 0.01) and 12-month (p < 0.001) follow-ups, all four study groups demonstrated a significant improvement in PIPS and PIBS, with no significant differences between the groups at baseline (p > 0.05). Based on an intergroup comparison, Group I (Nd:YAG) showed a significant decrease in PIBS when compared with the other groups. Group II showed a considerable decrease in PIPD and enhancements in CBL when compared with Groups I, III, and IV (p < 0.01). At the 6- and 12-month follow-up periods, P. gingivalis and T. denticola reduction were found to be statistically higher in Group II, whereas P. gingivalis and T. forsythia mean log CFU/mL were found to be statistically higher in Group I. Conclusions: Nd:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers both outperformed CHx and steam disinfection in terms of clinical, peri-implant, and prosthetic results when used to clean implant abutments.

Efficacy of adjunct photodynamic therapy on Candida growth and oral health quality of life in denture stomatitis patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus wearing implant-retained overdentures: A randomized clinical study.

AIM: The aim of the present clinical trial was to study the efficacy of combined miconazole and PDT in the improvement of quality of life and levels of Candida species in chronic hyperglycemic patients with denture stomatitis (DS). METHODS: One hundred patients were randomly divided into five groups; 20 each in the miconazole, PDT, miconazole+ PDT, CHX and distilled water groups. Methylene blue mediated irradiation was conducted using 600 nm diode laser with power, energy density and radiance as 100 mW, 3527 mW/cm2 and 9 J, respectively. Patients were advised to apply 2.5 ml of 2% topical miconazole four times a day. The existence of Candida spp. was detected by means of microbiological culture technique. Candida colony counts from the palates and dentures surfaces, quantified as colony forming unit (CFU)/mL were evaluated at baseline, end of 14 days, 28 days and 60 days. Oral health related quality of life was assessed with the help of a questionnaire. RESULTS: The quality of life showed significant improvement in the group where combination treatment was executed. The overall CFU/mL values were greater in the dentures in comparison to those from the palates of the patients of all the five groups. During all time periods of the study, the CFU/mL values obtained from combination treatment group showed significant differences. Candida albicans was the most predominant yeast. CONCLUSION: This study showed the effectiveness of methylene blue- PDT in combination with miconazole in improving oral health related quality of life and significantly reducing Candida CFU counts to resolve palatal inflammation in diabetic individuals with implant-supported complete dentures.

Comparison of Whole Salivary Cortisol and Interleukin 1-Beta Levels in Light Cigarette-Smokers and Users of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems before and after Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy.

There are no studies that have compared whole salivary cortisol (CL) and interleukin 1-beta (IL-1ß) levels in cigarette-smokers (CS) and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS)-users before and after non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT). The aim was to compare whole salivary CL and IL-1ß levels in light CS and ENDS users before and after non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT). Self-reported current CS, ENDS users, and non-smokers were included. A questionnaire was used to collect demographic data. All patients underwent NSPT. Periodontal parameters (probing depth (PD], gingival index (GI], clinical attachment loss (AL], plaque index (PI], and marginal bone loss (MBL]) and whole salivary CL and IL-1ß were measured at baseline. At 3-months of follow-up, clinical parameters and whole salivary CL and IL-1ß were re-assessed. p-values < 1% were arbitrated as statistically significant. Fifty-four individuals (18 CS, 18 ENDS users, and 18 non-smokers) were included. Clinical AL, MT, PD, PI, and MBL were similar in all groups at baseline. At 12-weeks of follow-up, PI (p < 0.01) and PD (p < 0.01) were high in CS and ENDS-users than non-smokers. Among non-smokers, there was a statistically significant correlation between whole salivary cortisol and IL-1ß levels at 12-weeks' follow-up (p < 0.001). There was no difference in whole salivary cortisol and IL-1ß levels in CS and ENDS users at baseline and at 12-weeks follow-up. At 12-weeks of follow-up, there was a significant reduction in IL-1ß (p < 0.01) and CL (p < 0.01) than baseline. In light CS and ENDS users without periodontal disease, clinical periodontal parameters and whole-salivary CL and Il-1ß levels remain unchanged after NSPT.

Shear bond characteristics and surface roughness of poly-ether-ether-ketone treated with contemporary surface treatment regimes bonded to composite resin.

AIM: To evaluate and compare the influence of contemporary surface treatments of air abrasions, sulfuric acid, and Photodynamic therapy (PDT) on the adhesive bonding and surface roughness of Poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) bonded to resin composite. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred and fifty PEEK (disk-shaped) specimens of 10 mm diameter and 2 mm thickness were prepared. Specimens were subjected to the following surface treatments, Control (no treatment), PDT, air abrasion using Alumina particles (110 µm) (AA-AP), Sulfuric acid (SA), and air abrasion using diamond particles (10-20 µm) AA-DP. Surface roughness (Ra) of treated samples were evaluated using surface profilometer. Universal testing machine was used to evaluate shear bond strength after composite resin build-up. Stereomicroscope was utilized for failure analysis of de-bonded samples of all five groups. Statistical analysis was performed utilizing one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to measure means and standard deviations of SBS among studied groups and the means of SBS were paralleled by Tukey multiple comparison tests (p > 0.05). RESULTS: The highest SBS was observed by 98% SA (19.25 ± 0.68 MPa). While specimen treated with PDT (11.69 ± 0.12 MPa) showed the lowest SBS. PEEK surface, treated with PDT and AA-DP demonstrated comparable SBS (p > 0.05). PEEK when pretreated with 98% SA (2.658 ± 0.658 µm) exhibited a significantly higher Ra value as compared to other surface-treated groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PEEK surface treated with SA showed the highest SBS and surface roughness compared to other groups. Surface roughness of PEEK treated with PDT, AA-AP, and AA-DP demonstrated no difference in Ra. PEEK surface treatment technique should be further investigated to develop reliable adhesive resin bonding.

Peri-implant parameters and bone metabolic markers among water-pipe users treated with photodynamic therapy.

AIM: The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Mechanical debridement (MD) with and without adjunct antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) in the treatment of peri­implantitis among waterpipe smokers (WPS) and non-smokers with peri­implantitis MATERIAL AND METHODS: Participants were stratified into two groups. Group 1: Subjects who smoked water pipes for the last 2 years with peri­implant disease were treated with aPDT adjunct to MD and group 2: Participants who did not use water pipes in the last 2 years but have periimplantitis (controls) were treated with MD only. Participants were scrutinized with peri­implantitis (PI) in one dental implant at least based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Using structured questionnaire information was gathered from participants. All participants underwent mechanical debridement (MD). Participants of WPS underwent antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT). Peri implant inflammatory parameters (PI, BI, PD, and CBL) were assessed in all participant at baseline, 3 months and 6 months follow-up. Periimplant sulcular fluid was collected for assessment of bone metabolic biomarkers RANK-L and OPG. For immunological and clinical peri­implant parameters analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal-Wallis test were used. For multiple comparisons, Bonferroni post hoc test was deployed. RESULTS: Clinical periodontal parameters at baseline were significantly different in the control group PI (49.8 ± 10.5), BI(46.8 ± 7.7), and PD (5.0 ± 1.8) compared to WPS PI (56.1 ± 12.0), BI (40.9 ± 8.3), and PD (5.6 ± 1.5) (p < 0.05). At 3 months follow-up after PDT, PI (19.1 ± 7.7) and PD (3.9 ± 1.4) were significantly lower in the control group compared to WPS group PI (23.5 ± 8.4) and PD (4.5 ± 1.2) (p < 0.05). Whereas, BI of control (16.3 ± 6.8) and WPS group (17.1 ± 5.3) at 3 months follow-up was comparable (p > 0.05). At six months follow up following PDT, PI (15.7 ± 5.5) and PD (3.4 ± 1.2) was significantly lower in the control group compared to participants with water piped users PI (18.6 ± 7.4) and PD (3.9 ± 1.3) (p < 0.05). No significant difference was noted in BI in both groups (p > 0.05). Participants treated with PDT adjunct to MD demonstrated significantly reduced mean RANK-L levels at both 3 and 6 months (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: aPDT adjunctive to MD improved periodontal parameters i.e., plaque index, pocket depth, and crestal bone loss along with metabolic marker RANK-L in water pipe smokers compared to non piped smokers.

Influence of Concentration Levels of ß-Tricalcium Phosphate on the Physical Properties of a Dental Adhesive.

Our study assessed the influence of integrating 5% and 10% tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP-Ca3(PO4)2.) nanoparticles into a dental adhesive on the adhesive's bonding. To evaluate the filler nanoparticles, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX) spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and micro-Raman spectroscopy techniques were used. Shear Bond strength (SBS) testing, degree of conversion (DC) analysis, investigation of the adhesive-dentin interface, and biofilm experiments were conducted. The SEM micrographs revealed non-uniform agglomerates, while the EDX demonstrated the existence of oxygen 'O' (24.2%), phosphorus 'P' (17.4%) and calcium 'Ca' (60.1%) in the ß-TCP nanoparticles. The FTIR and micro-Raman spectra indicated characteristic bands for ß-TCP containing materials. The 10 wt.% ß-TCP adhesive presented the highest SBS values (NTC-10 wt.% ß-TCP: 33.55 ± 3.73 MPa, TC-10 wt.% ß-TCP: 30.50 ± 3.25 MPa), followed by the 5 wt.% ß-TCP adhesive (NTC-5 wt.% ß-TCP: 32.37 ± 3.10 MPa, TC-5 wt.% ß-TCP: 27.75 ± 3.15 MPa). Most of the detected failures after bond strength testing were adhesive in nature. The ß-TCP adhesives demonstrated suitable dentin interaction by forming a hybrid layer (with few or no gaps) and resin tags. The ß-TCP adhesives (10 wt.%) revealed lower DC values compared to control. The incorporation of 5 and 10 wt.% concentrations of ß-TCP particles resulted in an increase in SBS values. A linear decline in DC values was witnessed when the nanoparticle concentration was increased. Further research focusing on exploring the influence of higher filler concentrations on adhesive's properties is recommended.

Dietary Factors Influencing the Caries Status of Adults in Karachi, Pakistan: Initial Findings.

Objective: The objective was to identify the relationship between the dietary factors related to increases in the number of dental caries among an adult population group. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving adult patients and their accompanying person, aged 18 years and above (n = 1730) visiting the dental outpatient department (OPD) of a public sector tertiary healthcare institute in Karachi, Pakistan. A 39-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was administered to the patients, followed by a dental caries assessment using Radke's WHO criteria. Caries assessment data were transformed into the DMFT Index (D = decayed, M = missing, F = filled teeth). Factor analysis (FA) was performed using Stata v. 11.0, followed by assessing the internal consistency of the FFQ. Multilogistic analysis was performed to explore the association between dental caries (cut-off = 5) and other independent variables, considering a p-value < 0.05 as significant. Results: The mean age of participants in the group was 32.65 ± 10.49 years. The number of female participants (934; 54%) was higher than male participants (796; 46%). Of the total, 951 (52%) participants were married. The internal consistency value for the FFQ, as measured by Cronbach's alpha, was 0.80. In addition to age and gender, out of four dietary patterns, only "cereals" were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) associated with increased DMFT. Conclusion: This study established that the high intake of cereals is a contributory factor to the high prevalence of dental caries among adults.

Association of the Unstimulated Whole Salivary Cytokine IL-1ß Levels with Initial, Moderate and Severe Periodontitis. A Case Control Study.

Periodontitis (P) is a highly prevalent inflammatory disease of the oral cavity. The objective of the study was to evaluate the stages of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1ß in initial, moderate and severe periodontitis. One hundred and twenty two patients were included in the study. Periodontitis subjects had at least 20 natural teeth and ≥8 sites with pocket depths of >4 mm and clinical attachment loss (CAL). A questionnaire was used with respect to the socio demographic parameters which included age, gender, ethnicity, education, marital, residence and occupation. To categorize the severity of the disease, teeth were assessed for, Plaque index (PI), Bleeding on probing (BOP), CAL, missing tooth, tooth mobility and bone loss. Unstimulated whole saliva (UWS) was collected and Interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß) cytokine levels were analyzed using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay with microplate reader at 450 nm. Clinical parameters and salivary cytokine concentrations were assessed using one-way analysis of variance, whereas a correlation of cases with gender and severity of periodontitis was evaluated using chi-square test. Fifty-nine patients were healthy controls and 63 were periodontitis patients Thirty two percent (n = 20) had initial periodontitis, 40% (n = 25) suffered from moderate and 29% (n = 18) had severe periodontitis. Periodontitis subgroups were significantly different with regards to age and gender (p < 0.001). The mean PPD and CAL among the periodontitis patients (PPD, 3.52 ± 1.25 mm; CAL, 4.04 ± 1.64 mm) were significantly compromised (p < 0.05) compared to healthy controls (PPD, 1.52 ± 0.73 mm; CAL, 0.08 ± 0.28 mm). Increased levels of IL-1ß were associated with high CAL and PPD findings. UWS IL-1ß levels were higher in periodontitis patients compared to healthy individuals. In addition, cases of severe periodontitis showed significantly higher UWS IL-1ß levels compared to initial and moderate periodontitis patients. Comparative levels of salivary IL-1ß can be potentially used as a diagnostic tool for periodontitis identification and disease progression along with clinical parameters.

Infection control awareness level among dental laboratory technicians, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: Infection control is an essential part in dental practices. Potential disease transmission in the dental lab is well documented. Dental technicians should strictly adhere to the standard precautions in order to prevent potential risks of cross-contamination, thereby producing a safe environment for patients and staff. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice among dental lab technicians toward infection control protocols at the dental laboratories of Riyadh. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A self-administered questionnaire will be distributed to dental lab technicians working at both private and governmental laboratories in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected from one hundred and twenty-one dental laboratory technicians. RESULTS: According to the findings, only 42.9% had an infection control manual display in the dental lab, 43.8% had received infection control training courses as part of their orientation, 40.4% of the technicians had a valid hepatitis B vaccination. Dental technicians are exposed to high risk of injuries, 72.7% of respondents answered Yes, when they were asked about reporting sharp injuries to laboratory administration. CONCLUSION: There was poor compliance to infection control procedures, dental techniques are at increased risk of cross-contamination and infection, they have limited orientation and knowledge on the infection control guideline and policy.

Assessment of self-rated pain perception and whole salivary cortisol levels among adolescents with and without temporomandibular disorders.

Objective: To assess the self-perceived pain perception (PP) and whole salivary cortisol levels (CL) among adolescents with and without temporomandibular disorders (TMD).Methods: Adolescents between 15 and 17 years were included. Participants were categorized into three groups: Group 1: patients with TMD; Group 2: nocturnalbruxers without TMD; and Group 3: controls. Demographic data CL and self-rated PP were assessed. A p-value < 0.05 was proposed as statistically significant.Results: Fifty-four patients (18 per group) were included. Scores of self-rated PP in the affected TMJ were higher in Group 1 than Group 2 (p < 0.001). Whole salivary CL were higher in groups 1 and 2 (p < 0.01) than in Group 3. Whole salivary CL were higher in Group 2 than Group 3 (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Whole salivary CL are higher in adolescents with TMD, and there is a direct relationship between self-rated PP in the TMJ area and salivary CL.

Effect of Photodynamic Therapy, Er,Cr:YSGG, and Nd:YAG Laser on the Push-Out Bond Strength of Fiber Post to Root Dentin.

Objective: To evaluate the push-out bond strength and modes of failure of fiber post to root dentin by using photodynamic therapy (PDT), Er,Cr:YSGG, Nd:YAG laser, and conventional cleaning and shaping (CCS). Materials and methods: Eighty anterior teeth were sectioned in a horizontal manner being 2 mm incisal to the cementoenamel junction, and root canal was prepared for post space. After post space was made, fiber posts were placed inside the root canal system. The fiber posts were subjected to PDT, Er,Cr:YSGG laser, Nd:YAG laser, and conventional cleaning and shaping (CSS) with 20 specimens in each group. Cervical and apical sections were obtained from the specimens. For performing the push-out test, the universal testing machine was used. The formula used for calculating the push-out bond strength was σ = N/mm2. Results: PDT group (8.16 ± 2.19 MPa) achieved the highest mean push-out bond strength, whereas Er,Cr:YSGG (7.24 ± 1.27 MPa) reported the lowest value in the specimens. Among the experimental groups, the ANOVA test expressed statistical difference (p = 0.481). In the cervical segments, the mean push-out bond strength was found to be higher in all of the experimental groups. For the cervical segments, the independent t-test results showed higher mean push-out bond strength values than the apical segments in PDT, Er,Cr:YSGG, Nd:YAG, and CSS groups, respectively (p < 0.05). Twenty failures were observed at the interface level between the adhesive and surface of dentin. Seven failures were found at the interface between mixed and the adhesive and post, respectively. Conclusions: Push-out bond strength to root canal dentin was not affected by PDT, Er,Cr:YSGG, and Nd:YAG laser compared with CCS. However, PDT produced the smallest number of failure modes and slightly higher push-out bond strength to root dentin. Laser treatment using PDT and Er,Cr:YSGG appeared to be clinically efficient showing acceptable push-out bond strength of fiber post with less number of failures at different regions of the root dentin.

Clinical and microbiological outcomes of photodynamic and systemic antimicrobial therapy in smokers with peri-implant inflammation.

AIM: To compare the effectiveness of two protocols in the treatment of peri-implant mucositis (p-iM) among cigarette smokers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three groups were randomized into (i) single session of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) with mechanical debridement (MD) (Group-A), (ii) systemic AB with MD (Group-B), and (iii) MD alone (Group-C). Clinical peri-implant parameters including plaque scores (PS), bleeding on probing (BOP) and probing depth (PD) were measured at baseline, 6 weeks and 12 weeks. Microbiological parameters included the assessment of percentage level of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus at baseline and 12 weeks. All parameters were analyzed using Friedman test and multiple comparisons performed using Bonferroni tests. P-value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: At 6 weeks of follow-up, there was a statistically significant reduction in PS (p < 0.001), BOP (p < 0.01), and PD (p < 0.05) among patients in groups A and B on intragroup comparison. At 12 weeks of follow-up, there was a further significant reduction in PS (p < 0.001) and BOP (p < 0.01) among patients in groups A and B on intragroup comparison but this reduction was comparable with 6-week follow-up. On inter-group comparison, only Group-A showed statistically significant reduction in BOP compared to Group-B and C at 6 weeks (p < 0.05). The levels of both P. aeruginosa and S. aureus in Group-A and Group-B showed statistically significant reductions at 12 weeks compared with baseline (p < 0.01). On inter-group comparison, Group-A and B showed no significant differences at follow-up (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: This short term clinical study suggests that aPDT as an adjunct to MD is as efficacious as adjunctive antibiotic therapy. However, additional benefits in the reduction of bleeding scores were observed for aPDT in peri-implant inflammation among cigarette smokers.

Influence of body fat in patients with dental implant rehabilitation treated with adjunctive photodynamic therapy.

BACKGROUND: Obesity appears to govern peri-implant hard and soft tissue health. We hypothesized that adjunctive photodynamic therapy (aPDT), improves clinical peri-implant perimeters and alleviates peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6 and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) in obese with moderate peri-implantitis. The current clinic-laboratory study aimed to determine whether obesity influences the outcomes of aPDT in patients with moderate peri-implantitis. METHODS: A total of 49 patients (24 obese and 25 non-obese) with moderate periodontitis receiving aPDT were included. Clinical characteristics including peri-implant probing depth (PIPD), peri-implant bleeding on probing (PIBOP), and peri-implant plaque index (PIPI) were measured. PICF levels of TNF-a, IL-6 and hsCRP were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Both clinical and cytokine assessments were performed at baseline, three months and six months, respectively. Intra-group comparisons of changes in clinical parameters pre and post PDT was performed using Friedman test. Comparison of changes of TNF-a, IL-6 and hsCRP levels within group was performed using Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS: When compared with the baseline, a considerable reduction in PIPI, PIBOP and PIPD was observed in obese as well as non-obese patients at three- and six-months follow-up. At three months follow-up, a statistically significant difference was observed in PIPI (p < 0.05), PIBOP (p < 0.05) and PIPD (p < 0.05) among obese and non-obese individuals. Additionally, when compared with the baseline, a statistically significant difference was noticed in PICF volume (p < 0.05) and levels of TNF-α (p < 0.05) and IL-6 (p < 0.05) in non-obese as well as obese at three- and six-months follow-up. CONCLUSION: With the application of aPDT, considerable improvement was observed in peri-implant inflammatory parameters among obese and non-obese patients with moderate peri-implantitis. Obesity did not appear to influence aPDT outcome in patients with moderate peri-implantitis.