Dentistry 3000

Periodontal and Biochemical Correlations during Alendronate Treatment in Postmenopausal Women: A Longitudinal Study

2024-12-28T14:44:30-05:00

Objective: Postmenopausal osteoporosis (OP) is a prevalent condition often treated with bisphosphonates like alendronate, which may influence periodontal health. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between clinical periodontal parameters [probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL)], biochemical markers [osteoprotegerin (OPG), and calcium (Ca)] and alendronate therapy.

Methods: This case-control study was carried out on 60 females aged from 55 to 65. All participants were divided into two groups equally, group A that included healthy postmenopausal females with healthy periodontium and group B included patients with osteoporosis. Patients were followed up for one year through for three consecutive periods (0, 6, and 12 months) after receiving alendronate (ALN) treatment. Patients with osteoporosis or ALN were further subdivided equally based on gingivitis and periodontitis. Blood samples were gathered for quantitative proportions of OPG through enzyme–linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA). Additionally, calcium was analyzed using full automated calcium detector device. The clinical periodontal parameters (PPD, and CAL) were reported for all teeth except for third molars and kept in specifically designed case sheet documents following assortment of serum.

Results: There was a significant decrease in PPD and CAL after 12 months of ALN treatment. However, there was significant increase in serum OPG and calcium level at each consecutive recall follow up in comparison to no ALN treatment. Additionally, our study revealed a positive correlation between OPG and calcium at base line in patients with osteoporosis (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level and osteoprotegerin and calcium serum levels improved significantly with alendronate therapy.

Potential Role of Periodontopathogens in Rheumatoid Arthritis

2024-12-25T14:23:13-05:00

Periodontal disease, particularly the chronic form of periodontitis, is a widespread inflammatory condition caused by pathogenic bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis. This review explores the potential role of periodontopathogens, particularly Porphyromonas gingivalis, in the development and progression of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by joint inflammation and damage. Both periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis share common inflammatory mechanisms, driven by proinflammatory cytokines and immune dysregulation. Porphyromonas gingivalis, via its pathogenic determinants, that is, gingipains and peptidyl arginine deiminase, facilitates the citrullination of proteins, leading to the generation of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies, a key feature in rheumatoid arthritis pathogenesis. The reciprocal relationship between periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis is further supported through evidence showing that individuals with periodontitis are at a higher risk for rheumatoid arthritis, and vice versa. Both circumstances exhibit similar inflammatory pathways, involving cytokines like tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 1 and interleukin 6 and tissue degradation mediated by matrix metalloproteinases.

Evaluation of Salivary Interleukin 6 and MicroRNA 146a in Patients with Chronic Periodontitis and Their Association with Periodontal Parameters

2025-02-02T13:54:11-05:00

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate of the role of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and microRNA 146a (miRNA 146a) in chronic periodontitis (CPD).

Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional case control study was conducted at the Diyala province-Iraq. A total of 40 CPD patients were included. They were 20 males and 20 females, and their age range was 23-56 years. The clinical periodontal parameters were measured under supervision of specialized dentists. Furthermore, 40 apparently healthy individuals, 21 were males and 19 were female, were included as controls. Their age range was 20-50 years. All participants were requested to complete a questionnaire that contained medical and socio-demographic data. The salivary IL-6 was determined using qELISA (INOVA Biotech Co., LTD, China). The salivary miRNA 146a was detected using qPCR (TransGen biotech, China). Statistical analyses were done using SPSS version 22 (Inc., Chicago, Illinois, United States), and P-values ≤ 0.05 were considered significant.

Results: The mean age ± SD of patients was not different than that of controls (38.85 ± 5.30 Vs 40.52 ± 6.69, P=0.2). The gender was also not different (P=0.8). The mean ± SD PI of CPD patients was significantly higher (1.27± 0.34 Vs 0.60 ± 0.26, P=0.01). Similarly, the mean ± SD of GI was also significantly higher in CPD patients (1.49 ± 0.42 Vs 0.24 ± 0.14, P= 0.01). The rate of BOP sites in CPD patients was significantly higher than that of controls (P=0.001). Also, the mean ± SD of PPD in CPD patients was 4.66 ± 0.50 mm, while the mean ± SD of CAL was 4.90 ± 1.30. Additionally, the mean No.± SD of teeth in CPD patients was significantly lower (24.72± 3.77 Vs 27.62± 0.80, P=0.01). Furthermore, the mean No. ± SD of sites in CPD patients was also significantly lower (98.95± 15.08 Vs 110.50 ± 3.22, P 0.01). The mean concentration ± SD of salivary IL-6 was not higher in CPD patients (8.17 ± 3.79 Vs 7.45± 1.51, P= 0.4). qPCR results found that there was significantly higher expression of miRNA-146a in CPD patients versus that of the controls (1.79 ± 0.10 Vs 1.08± 0.10, P=0.001).

Conclusion: The current results concluded that both IL-6 and miRNA 146a were elevated in CPD patients and closely correlated with periodontal parameters suggesting that these biomarkers can be used as a surrogate diagnostic and prognostic indicator of chronic periodontitis.

Phytochemical Analysis and Antibacterial Activity of Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni Leaves Extract against Streptococcus sanguis (A Primary Inhabitant of Dental Plaque): In Vitro Study

2024-11-29T07:52:59-05:00

Objective: Dental plaque is considered the primary causative agent in developing periodontal diseases. Early colonizers of dental plaque, such as Streptococcus sanguis (S.sanguis), are crucial in the succession steps of biofilm formation. As an alternative to the commonly used chlorohexidine (CHX), it is of interest to find naturally occurring antimicrobial substances from plants.

Materials and Methods: Volunteers were asked to provide plaque samples. Microscopic examination, gram stain, optochin test, catalase test and polymerase chain reaction were used to ensure the identification of S. sanguis. Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni leaves extracted by 70% ethanol alcohol. Four experiments have been done in this study: the susceptibility of S. sanguis to stevia extract, the minimum inhibitory (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal (MBC) concentrations, and exploration of the extract effective constituents by using HPLC.

Results: Stevia extract had good antibacterial activity with varying inhibition zone diameters that were concentration dependent, but 0.2% CHX showed better activity with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). Both MIC and MBC were at 16 mg/ml. HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of antibacterial constituents: narigenin 25.76 ppm, catechin 30.25 ppm, coumarin 25.47 ppm, and kaempferol 4.59 ppm.

Conclusions: The antimicrobial activity of the alcoholic Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni leaf extract was satisfactory. The study extract exhibited lower antibacterial activity at 512 mg/ml of stevia extract, while 0.2% CHX had superior activity overall. HPLC showed that the alcoholic leaves extract of Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni contains several active antibacterial components: narigenin, catechin, coumarin and kaempferol.

Selecting the Best Measuring Device to Evaluate the Dimensional Changes in Complete Denture Samples

2025-01-18T14:32:50-05:00

Objectives: Evaluating the accuracy of measuring tools used to access dimensional stability of complete denture samples.

Materials and Methods: Ten maxillary complete denture bases were made from heat-cure acrylic resin. Six reference points were prepared in each sample in the central incisors area, first premolars area, and first molars area. The distances between 5 different locations (3 horizontal distances and 2 anteroposterior distances) were measured using 3 different measuring tools. Each sample was measured three times using measuring microscope, sagittal cephalometric radiograph in conjunction with auto CAD soft-ware, and Vernier caliper. The results were analyzed using One-way ANOVA and post Tukey test.

Results: the type of measuring tool significantly affect the measurements especially with the radiographs that showed larger values compared to the microscope and Vernier caliper (P<0.05). The latter two measuring tools were equivalent to each other (P >0.05).

Conclusions: within the limitations of the present study, the measuring microscope is the best tool to be used for measuring distances as it provides the best visibility and validity. Vernier calipers is a better alternative for the microscope compare to the radiographs and computer software.

Evaluation of Postoperative Pain Intensity Following the Use of Three Different Canal Preparation Systems: A Randomized Clinical Trial

2024-12-15T08:33:44-05:00

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the intensity of postoperative pain after Hand Protaper preparation, Wave One Gold and a HyFlex EDM instrument.

Materials and Methods: Thirty patient were randomly divided into three groups. Endodontic treatment was performed for premolar and molar root canals, and they were filled with gutta-percha and an epoxy resin-based root canal sealer using a lateral condensation technique. Teeth were restored using a resin composite material. A single operator performed the treatments in a single visit for asymptomatic molars, and the patients were asked to record their pain severity during a 12, 24, 36, and 72 h follow-up period using a visual analog scale (VAS). One-way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple comparison test were used for statistical comparisons.

Results: Up to 12 hours, postoperative pain was significantly higher in the group treated by HyFlex EDM (p < 0.01). No differences were seen from 36 hours to 7 days.

Conclusion: For all three techniques, higher pain intensity was seen at 12 hours and then the pain steadily decreased. No significant difference was noted in quality of life, suggesting the filling systems or techniques has a similar effect.

Efficacy of Intraoral and Extraoral Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in Managing Pain and Swelling After Surgical Removal of Impacted Mandibular Third Molar

2024-12-28T15:01:09-05:00

Objective: Postoperative edema and pain are common third molar surgery side effects, that normally happens with local anesthesia. The low-level laser (LLLT) method has been universally recognized as a cell bio-modulator that is employed to accomplish optimum beneficial effects. It reduces the pain reaction, stimulates local microcirculation and wound healing, and promotes a fast healing, thus enhancing the patient's quality of life. We intended to ascertain the LLLT efficacy in improving mouth opening following the impacted third molar extraction in this research.

Methods: This randomized clinical trial was carried out on ninety cases who had impacted mandibular third molars in similar positions. Group A was allocated to intra-oral LLLT, Group B to extra-oral LLLT, and Group C to the control group. All participants were evenly divided into these three categories. The outcome that was assessed was the pain degree, alongside the postoperative edema and recovery at the operation site.

Results: Postoperative pain and edema were calculated on 1st and 7th day. All these parameters were lower in LLLT patients (p>0.05).

Conclusions: After the impacted mandibular lower wisdom tooth surgical extraction, the LLLT application was effective in mitigating postoperative complications, for instance facial edema and pain.

Impact of Rubbing and Waiting Technique of a Universal Adhesive System on Shear Bond Strength of Orthodontic Brackets: A Comparative Analysis

2024-12-27T15:27:33-05:00

Background: One important factor in orthodontics to consider is the bracket's bonding strength to the teeth substrate. This study's objective is to see how the rubbing and waiting approach of a universal adhesive system affects the shear bond strength and adhesive remnant index (ARI) of orthodontic brackets.

Materials and Methods: This was an experimental study (in vitro). Fifty newly extracted human maxillary first premolars were divided into five groups of 10 teeth each. The universal adhesive was applied on the buccal surface with 20 seconds of rubbing followed by 0, 5, 10, 15, or 20 seconds of waiting protocol according to their group. The teeth were set into blocks of acrylic resin, and the shear bond strength was tested. Afterwards, ARI was assessed. Statistical analyses were performed using the one-way analysis of variance and Tukey HSD post hoc. In addition to the Kruskal-Wallis test.

Results: One-way ANOVA showed significant differences (p=0.000) between the groups. The maximum shear bond strength was for group 5 (18.93 ± 2.82), with significant differences from group 1 (p= 0.000) and group 2 (p= 0.006). The minimum bond strength was for group 1 (11.09 ± 1.50), with significant differences from all the other groups. ARI scores revealed no significant differences between the groups (p= 0.406).

Conclusion: By allowing for adequate solvent evaporation and monomer infiltration—both of which are essential for the clinical outcome of orthodontic treatment—extending the waiting period improves the shear bond strength. The ARI was not significantly impacted by waiting time.

Impact of Soft Drinks Consumption on Salivary pH Levels

2024-12-21T11:59:24-05:00

Objective: The goal of current investigation was to determine the impact of some drinks on saliva pH values.

Methodology: The study included 20 healthy individuals (15 females and 5 males) with different ages. Measurements after 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 minutes of drinking Cola, Pepsi, Seven Up, Shani, and Mirinda on saliva pH were determined.

Results: Very similar pH value changes happened for all drinks, with a decrease in pH within 10 minutes after drinking that return to original values after 60 minutes.

Conclusion: The studied drinks cause a decrease in salivary pH that returns to original values within 60 minutes.

Comparison of Adhesion of Soft-Liner between Conventional PMMA and 3D Printed Resin Denture Bases

2024-12-19T14:00:20-05:00

Aims: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the tensile strength of the soft-liner (Molloplast-B®) between the denture foundation made of 3D printed resin and traditional acrylic (PMMA).

Materials and Methods: In this experiment, 60 acrylic specimens in the shape of reverse dumbbells were employed. The first group consisted of 24 specimens made from traditional acrylic polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) (Vertex, Veracril, and Duradent) while the second group consisted of 24 specimens made from 3D printed resin (Dentona). The third group consisted of 12 samples that were packed at the dough stage of acrylic and soft liner at the same time.

After that, the samples from the first and second groups were split in two, with one half receiving no surface treatment and the other half undergoing sandblasting. Every sample is separated into two halves with precise measurements. The thickest and thinnest sections were 80 mm in length (10 mm x 25 mm) and 8 mm x 15 mm, respectively, and were joined in the middle by the soft-liner material. The experiment's tensile strength was examined in two separate directions to ascertain the soft-liner material's strength of adhesion to the sample's chosen materials.

Results: The data analysis of the tensile strength test revealed a statistically significant difference in the soft-liner adhesion strength between the 3D-printed acrylic resin with sandblast treatment (0.2133 ± 0.03939 kN/mm²) and the 3D-printed acrylic resin without surface treatment (0.1567 ± 0.04677 kN/mm²). Similar results were observed for conventional acrylic PMMA, where the sandblasted acrylic PMMA (0.0950 ± 0.03606 kN/mm²) exhibited significantly better bond strength compared to the untreated acrylic PMMA (0.0875 ± 0.02491 kN/mm²). Dough stage samples had better values complared to traditional acrylic (0.1483± 0.03689 kN/mm²).

Conclusion: The results demonstrate that sandblast treatment significantly improves the soft-liner adhesion strength of both 3D-printed acrylic resin and conventional acrylic PMMA. Surface treatment enhances bond strength compared to untreated materials. These findings suggest that sandblasting is an effective method for improving adhesion in acrylic-based materials.

Molecular Detection of Tetracycline-Resistant Streptococcus viridans Bacteria Using the rpoA Gene

2025-01-26T12:27:20-05:00

Objective: The aim of this study was to established diagnostic approaches to dental caries using polymerase chain reaction technology.

Methods: PCR series. 60 samples of oral bacteria were collected between 8/6/2023 and 12/1/2023, where 27 teeth showed a growth rate for bacterial culture (45%). The bacterial isolates under study were characterized. The sensitivity of the bacterial isolates of Streptococcus viridans under study to eight antibiotics was tested. The results of the current study showed that the resistance rates were as follows: 71.4% for tetracycline, 57% for augmentin, 57% for ciprofloxacin, 28% for clindamycin, 57% for erythromycin, 57% for doxycycline, and 28% for doxycycline for clarithromycin.

Results: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for the bacterial isolates under study was determined for the tetracycline antibiotic. S. viridansisolates showed resistance to this antibiotic through a sensitivity test using the disk method, as the MIC value. for the isolates ranged from (1024-8) micrograms/m l.

The percentage of S. viridans isolates producing virulence factors was as follows: protease enzyme 42%, and membrane protease. Bioactive 71%, bacteriocin 14%, hemolycin 57%, DNAase 71%, capsule 28%, and lipase 28%.

Conclusion: The total DNA of all bacterial isolates under study was extracted, after which a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed for the S. viridans resistant to tetracycline and with an MIC value higher than 64 µg/ml using specialized primers targeting the specific sequence of the tetM gene with a size of 1,862bp. When the amplified products were migrated on an agarose gel, one band appeared in all tracks in the gel at the same level for all samples. The results showed that the presence of the tetM gene was 100%.

The Impact of Autoclave Sterilization on Cyclic Fatigue of Nickel-Titanium Rotary Endodontic Instruments

2024-11-26T10:22:08-05:00

Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of repeating sterilization in an autoclave on the cyclic fatigue resistance for three varieties of nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary endodontic systems in double curved simulated canal.

Materials and Methods: During this research, three distinct varieties of nickel-titanium rotary endodontic files with a tip diameter of 0.25 millimeters and a taper of 0.06 millimeters were utilized: ProDesign Logic system, E-Flex Edge, and Endostar E3 Azure. Each type of rotary endodontic instruments (n=24) was then randomly divided into three sub-groups: non-sterilized instruments, sterilized instruments after 3 autoclave cycles, and sterilized instruments after 5 autoclave cycles. All the files from the various subgroups were examined to determine their ability to resist cyclic fatigue. Additionally, the period for fractures, the total number of cycles until failure (NCF), and the resulting fracture fragment length for every instrument were determined. SPSS software 29 was utilized for statistical comparisons (P<0.05).

Results: There were no differences among sterilized as well as non-sterilized files (P>0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in fractured length between tested groups.

Conclusions: The resistance to cyclic fatigue of NiTi rotary instruments was not considerably impacted by the repeated autoclave sterilization cycles.

Microbial Insights in Dentistry: Implications for Oral and Systemic Health

2024-12-18T15:30:45-05:00

The relationship between microbiology and dentistry is a cornerstone for understanding oral and systemic health dynamics. The oral cavity serves as a habitat for a diverse microbial ecosystem, which contributes to both health and disease. While a balanced oral microbiome is essential for homeostasis, its dysbiosis is implicated in dental diseases such as caries and periodontitis and systemic conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. This review delves into the role of the oral microbiome in maintaining health, the challenges of antimicrobial resistance, and the advancements in microbial diagnostics and therapeutics. It also highlights the potential of emerging technologies and microbial-based therapies in advancing personalized dentistry. Emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of how microbial research can revolutionize dental practices and patient outcomes.

Anatomical Changes Related to Age in Maxillary Sinus

2024-11-14T18:58:18-05:00

Objective: The paranasal sinuses consist of four paired cavities: maxillary, ethmoid, frontal, and sphenoid, which are air-filled, mucosa-lined spaces within the maxillofacial region, connected to the nasal cavity. The maxillary sinus, the largest of these, occupies the body of the maxilla and has a pyramidal shape.

Methods: In this study, CBCT scans from 35 subjects (18 males and 17 females) who visited the University Dental Hospital in Tikrit and a private CBCT center in Samarra were analyzed. Subjects were categorized into four groups (A, B, C, and D). Measurements focused on determining the dimensions of the right maxillary sinus, including height (distance from the superior wall to the inferior wall in the coronal plane), width (distance from the lateral to the medial wall), and depth (antero-posterior distance in the axial plane). Mean values for each dimension were calculated.

Results: The study results revealed that the length and height of the right maxillary sinus (RMS) increased up to Group C and then began to decline in Group D. Male subjects showed larger sinus dimensions compared to females. In females, the maxillary sinus length and height were variable across Groups A and B, with an increase in Group C followed by a decrease in Group D, while width showed an initial fill in Group A and then a gradual decline through Groups B, C, and D. In males, length, width, and height of the sinus increased in Groups A and B, peaked in Group C, and declined in Group D.

Histological Evaluation of Cutaneous Wound Healing Treated by Local Application of Cucurbita pepo L. Seed Oil

2025-01-03T09:39:49-05:00

Objective: The rising demand for natural medicines in pharmaceuticals has prompted scientists to investigate medicinal plants. Pumpkin seed (Cucurbita pepo L.) is a noteworthy candidate due to its remarkable pharmacological qualities for possible wound healing therapies.

Methods: A total of twelve mature male New Zealand rabbits weighing between 1.5 and 2 kg were subjected to uniform wounds on their dorsum. These rabbits were then split into two groups for healing durations of 3 and 7 days, with 6 rabbits in each group. The induced wound in the control group was allowed to heal naturally, whereas the wounds in the experimental group were treated with a daily local application of pumpkin oil (10µl). The animals were sacrificed after healing times of three and seven days. All examined groups underwent clinical assessment of wound contraction. Specimens were obtained for histological and histomorphometric analysis to evaluate inflammatory cell and blood vessel counts, as well as epithelial thickness.

Results: The average percentage of wound contraction escalated over time. A notable change was found and a statistically significant disparity in the mean values of inflammatory cells was recorded. The mean values for blood vessel count rose with a notable disparity was noted between the control and experimental groups. The evaluation of epithelial thickness indicated that mean values increased over time, with a significant difference in both experimental groups.

Conclusion: As a potential therapeutic agent for wound healing, pumpkin oil may be also beneficial for nutritional and therapeutic applications.

The Effect of Cross-Section of Three Different Files on Apical Debris and Irrigant Solution Extrusion Using Full File Sequences: An In Vitro Study

2024-12-29T09:20:08-05:00

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the cross-sectional geometry of heat-treated endodontic rotary files upon debris ejection through apex and the quantity of irrigants expelled when employing a complete sequence file system.

Methods: Sixty extracted human maxillary first premolars were included and randomly classified into three categories (n = 20) according to the file employed during the preparation of canal. The groups were Group 1: EdgeFile X7, Group 2: Komet FQ, and Group 3: Fanta AF F One. The modified Myers along with Montgomery experiment protocol was employed to measure the mean weight of upward extruded irrigants and detritus in grams. The comparison of irrigants and debris extrusion was performed utilizing analyses of variances (ANOVA). Significant level has been established at 0.05.

Results: Apical ejection of material was prevalent throughout every one of analyzed files. Quantity of debris extruded during canal shaping did not show any significant variation among the examined files, The Fanta AF F One group exhibited the greatest mean of extrusion irrigant.

Conclusion: Each evaluated endodontic rotary devices produced comparable apical debris ejection among the groups. The Fanta AF F One group extruded the most irrigant.

Selected Salivary Antioxidant Levels in Relation with Periodontal Diseases

2024-11-14T19:15:30-05:00

Objective: Gingivitis and periodontitis are the most common types of periodontal diseases, which are chronic inflammatory conditions encompassing many other conditions. These arise because of the interaction between a pathogenic bacterial biofilm and inflammatory chemicals and cells produced from the host.

Materials and Methods: A sample of 50 individuals (18 males and 32 females) aged 19-30 years old, treated at the health center of Efraz, Samarra city, was recruited. Plaque index was measured to determine dental plaque thickness. A calculus index was measured as well. Salivary uric acid and salivary total protein content were assessed chemically using unstimulated saliva. The statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 21 was used to examine all data.

Results and Conclusion: No associations were found between periodontal diseases and uric acid and salivary total protein content.

Evaluation of Microhardness of self-adhesive Pediatric Filling

2025-01-07T02:44:25-05:00

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate how beverages affected the self-adhesive hybrid pediatric cement's microhardness.

Materials and Methods: Specimens measuring 5 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness were fabricated from Surefil one self-adhesive hybrid GIC and subjected to exposure by acidic beverages. The study involved three groups (artificial saliva as control, Cola, Sparkling water with lemon). Samples for Vickers hardness were immersed for 15 minutes daily for 28 days. Then, samples were tested using a Vickers microhardness tester. Statistical analysis involved the use of one-way Anova and post hoc Tucky test at the level of significance of 0.05.

Results: When Surefil One samples were submerged in simulated saliva, their Vickers microhardness significantly decreased. Samples submerged in Cola showed the largest decline, indicating a negative impact on material integrity.

Conclusions: Beverages affected the self-adhesive hybrid pediatric cement's microhardness.

Salivary Caries-Related Microorganisms and Demographics of a Group of Children

2024-10-30T05:05:13-04:00

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the association between caries related microorganisms in children^’s saliva, such as Streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli, and their demographic factors.

Methods: This study involved a sample of 135, both sexes with an age range between 3 and 10 years. Unstimulated saliva was obtained and diluted in normal saline. Saliva was then placed in selective media. Salivaris agar was used for mutans streptococci while Rogosa agar for lactobacilli. After incubation, Streptococcus mutans counting of CFU (colony forming units) with morphology characterization and numbers of CFU per milliliter of saliva for lactobacilli. Demographic factors information was collected using a questionnaire.

Results: Both studied salivary microorganisms increased with age. Streptococcus mutans was higher in boys, and associated with breastfeeding, overweight, and not brushing their teeth. Lactobacilli were higher in girls, and associated with mothers who were government employee, mother occupation, children who during sleep were not nursed, and with normal weight.

Conclusion: The present study found an association between salivary Streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli and various demographic variables in a group of children.

Study the Effect of Chemical Solutions on Disinfection in Prosthodontics Clinic Using Digital Ultrasonic Cleaner

2024-12-30T06:55:01-05:00

Objective: The disinfection measures used by dentists are inadequate and require the education and enhancement of dental practitioners’ skills to improve the safety of patients receiving treatment at dental offices. In a medical setting, the remaining bacteria that naturally exist on a patient’s body, known as endogenous flora, often leads to the transmission of infections. The objective of this study was to identify a simple and precise technique for disinfecting a prosthodontics clinic through the utilization of a chemical solution.

Methods: Swabs were collected from the patients who wear a complete denture who were contaminated, both before and after being exposed to a sterilization system. By measuring the turbidity and absorbance at 620nm using a UV spectrophotometer, we can determine the characteristics of the broth after it has been incubated at 36.5°C for 24 hours. Utilized a solution containing 0.5% sodium hypochlorite and 2% chlorhexidine. The bacterial growth was subjected to two rounds of exposure to two chemical disinfectants, each for durations of 90 seconds and 180 seconds respectively.

Results: The bacterial growth exhibited a decrease after being treated to a chemical disinfectant in a time-dependent way.

Conclusion: This study determined that the chemical solution effectively reduces bacterial development within a short period of time, providing the most convenient, rapid, and precise approach for disinfecting dental materials.

Influence of Different Temperatures on the Polymerization Pre- and Post-Cured of Various Resin Materials

2024-12-28T15:04:23-05:00

Objective: To evaluate and compered the effect of different temperatures (5°C, 37°C and room temp. ±23°C) pre- cured and post-cured for three universal- Chroma composite materials (Hybrid-Nano fillers, Supra-Nano, Nano filler) on the polymerization degree and micro-hardness.

Materials: A seventy-five disc-samples-shaped were fabricated from (Omnichroma, Vittra APS, DenFil N), for each test in different temperatures (5°C, 37°C and room temp. ±23°C) were light cured according to manufacture instruction. The Fourier trans-form infrared spectroscopy was used to the polymerization degree measured for each sample while the micro-hardness was measured by the using of Vickers hardness test. Data were analyzed using One-Way-Analysis of Variance at level p < 0.05.

Results: The analysis showed that there was significant difference in the polymerization degree and in the micro-hardness of the samples fabricated at the different temperatures when heated pre- and post- cured of all materials increase, in the polymerization degree and the micro-hardness of the samples.

Conclusions: Increasing three universal- Chroma composite materials (Hybrid-Nano fillers, Supra-Nano, Nano filler) temperature whether pre-cured and post-cured allows for maintaining or increasing polymerization degree and hardness of three universal- Chroma composite materials especially DentfilN Nano- filler composite.

Effectiveness of Behavioral and Lifestyle Changes in Reducing TMD Symptoms: Evidence from a Structured Intervention

2025-01-12T18:00:27-05:00

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of behavioral measures in managing TMDs with an emphasis on pain, joint mobility and psychosocial status.

Methods: Forty-eight subjects with TMDs were enrolled based on the RDC/TMD criteria. Stress management, ergonomics training, dietary changes and stretching exercises were recommended as individualized lifestyle plans. The clinical, psychosocial and functional evaluations were done before and after three months of intervention.

Results: The frequency of myofascial pain without limited mouth opening was 45. 8% which was reduced to 20. The percentage of subjects with right and left TMJ arthralgia was also seen to have reduced significantly (70. 8% to 43. 7%, p = 0. 0133; 75% to 41. 6%, p = 0. 001). Right TMJ osteoarthrosis and osteoarthritis showed a considerable improvement (p < 0. 05) while the changes in the left TMJ were not significant. Disc displacement with reduction on the right and without reduction on the left side was also found to have improved markedly (p = 0. 036; p = 0. 041). Depression severity was also found to have reduced significantly with the normal levels increasing from 45. 8% to 83. 3% (p < 0. 05). Pain intensity as measured by VAS also reduced from 4. 72 ± 1. 44 to 3. 43 ± 1. 38 (p = 0. 001). There was also an enhancement in the non-specific physical symptoms but the differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusions: The present study demonstrated that the implementation of lifestyle modifications helps in decreasing the symptoms of TMD, increases the joint function and has a positive effect on the psychosocial status of the patients and therefore should be considered as the first-line treatment in the management of TMD.

Novel Surgical Method for Contour Restoration in Patients with Micrognathia

2025-01-14T18:12:56-05:00

The bone graft procedure is the most popular approach that has been utilized to repair and shape the micrognathia. Several other treatments have also been employed. The new surgical technique is a comprehensive technique, it gives a ridge and permanent chin with a normal esthetic appearance.