Dentistry 3000

Evaluation of Diode Laser Treatment on Implant Stability, Healing Edema and Implant Survival in a Sample of Iraqi Patients Seeking Dental Implants: Single Center Study

2024-10-02T16:14:22-04:00

Objective: To investigate the impact of diode laser therapy on pre-implant site preparation and post-implant healing, primary and secondary stability of the dental implant osteointegration, to measure crestal bone level, and the survival rate of the dental implants.

Methods: This prospective clinical study was organized from November 2022 to August 2024 at the Dentistry College Teaching Hospital, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery/Dental Implant Unit/University of Kut. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups: study group receiving diode laser and control group receiving no laser treatment. Outcome variables included mainly healing edema score, implant stability, and survival of implant.

Results: Regarding primary stability, there was no significant difference in its mean level between study group and control group, 67.12 ±5.44 ISQ versus 68.54 ±5.77 ISQ, respectively (p = 0.208). Regarding secondary stability following 7 days, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks, there was no significant difference in its mean level between study group and control group (p> 0.05). Higher scores of healing edema were found in the control group when compared to study groups at 3 days, 7 days and 14 days intervals (p< 0.001).

Conclusion: Laser therapy resulted in improved healing edema score, but it had no significant impact on dental stability or implant survival.

The Prevalence of Partial Edentulism and Associated Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study

2024-09-21T17:12:40-04:00

Objective: The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of partial edentulism according to Kennedy’s classification and its association to arch, age and gender.

Methods: Data were collected from 358 patients aged 18 to 80 years. Selected patients were grouped according to gender and age (<45, =>45). Intra oral examination for each patient was done. The pattern of partial edentulism according to Kennedy’s classification was determined. Statistical analysis was done using the SPSS V26 statistical program. Chi-square test was used to test for differences in frequency at p-value<0.05.

Results and Conclusion: The rate of class III pattern in maxillary arch was significantly higher than that of mandibular arch. Class I pattern in mandibular arch was significantly higher than that of maxillary arch (25.1% vs 14%, P=0.001). No differences in frequency were found between class II and IV pattern and affected arch. Class IV was the least frequent in both dental arches. Frequency of class I and class II partial edentulism increased with age, while class III was more frequent at young age. Class IV pattern was more frequent among males than females.

Tea Tree Oil Effect on Dimensional Change and Detail Reproduction of Addition Silicon Impression Material

2024-09-01T18:36:35-04:00

Objective: Impression materials are thought to be the one of the primary sources of cross infection between patients and dentists. However, it was discovered that disinfection of the impression is not conducted routinely in ordinary dental treatment. Disinfection of addition silicon impression, whether by immersion or spray should not produce dimensional or detail errors. The purpose of this study was to examine the immersion of addition silicon impression material in tea tree oil and its influence on dimensional stability and detail reproduction of the addition silicon imprint material.

Materials and Methods: This study employed a total of 120 heavy- and light-body addition silicon impression material specimens. The specimens were randomly sorted and immersed into six groups. These test groups where four concentrations of TTO (0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%), and the other two groups were distilled water (negative control) and 2% glutaraldehyde (positive control). All specimens were immersed for 10 minutes in the testing solutions. Each of the six groups had 20 specimens separated into two subgroups.

Results: There were no statistically significant differences in linear dimensional changes and detail reproduction among all test groups.

Conclusion: The addition silicon impression material may be safely submerged in TTO for 10 minutes to disinfect it without impairing its dimensional correctness or detail replication of the impression.

The Combined Effect of Two Natural Extracts on Enamel Remineralization (in vitro Study)

2024-08-21T10:09:06-04:00

Objective: Dental caries is a chronic infectious disease that is prevalent worldwide in all age groups. Numerous attempts have been made to develop conservative approaches to halt caries progression and restore enamel defects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of applying grape seed extract and chicken eggshell extract on the microhardness of demineralized enamel in permanent teeth.

Methods: Forty-eight sound upper first premolars were used. Following demineralization with the demineralizing solution for 96 hours, they were distributed into four groups consistent with the treatment agent used: group A was treated with casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate (as a control group), group B was treated with grape seed extract, group C was treated with chicken eggshell extract solution, and group D was treated with grape seed extract followed by chicken eggshell extract solution. Vickers microhardness measurements were performed on sound enamel, after demineralization and remineralization.

Results: Paired T-test, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey’s HSD test were used for statistical analysis. Enamel microhardness was significantly reduced following demineralization (p=0.000) and significantly increased after remineralization, with group D showing the highest values (mean microhardness=218.99).

Conclusion: Grape seed extract and chicken eggshell extract solutions have a synergistic effect on enamel remineralization which was interpreted from the increase in surface microhardness values.

Shear Bond Strength Comparison Between Heat Cure Acrylic Resin and Other Types of Acrylic Denture Bases

2024-10-20T09:42:22-04:00

Objective: The study purpose was to examine the shear bonding strength of heat cure acrylic resin to thermoplastic resin and three-dimensional printed resin materials.

Methods: A total of 30 acrylic specimens were fabricated in this study. Each specimen had a basal and top parts. The basal part was rectangular in shape. We had three different groups: 10 specimens of a basal part made of heat cured polymethylmethacrylate, 10 specimens of a basal part made of thermoplastic, and 10 specimens of three dimensionally printed resin. The top part of which is attached to the basal one was formed into a cylindrical shape made of heat cure poly methyl methacrylate in all three groups.

Results: Significant differences were found between the heat cured polymethylmethacrylate and the other two groups (P<.001). Heat cured polymethylmethacrylate showed the highest bond strength (75 MPa), and thermoplastic resins showed the lowest (37 MPa). No significant difference in the shear bond strength was noticed between three dimensionally printed and thermoplastic acrylic.

Conclusion: This study revealed that the shear bond strength of heat cured acrylic denture base to the relining/repairing from the same material was significantly higher than three dimensionally printed and thermoplastic resins with HC relining/repairing material.

Assessment of Oral Histology Knowledge and Its Application in Clinical Orthodontics, Operative Dentistry, Oral Medicine, and Oral Surgery

2024-10-05T12:21:01-04:00

Objective: This study aims to assess the knowledge of oral histology among fifth-year dental students in Iraq and evaluate its relevance to various clinical dental disciplines, including orthodontics, operative dentistry, oral medicine, and oral surgery.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from February to May 2024 among dental students from both public and private institutions in Iraq. Participants were recruited through targeted online advertisements on platforms such as Telegram, WhatsApp, and Facebook.

Results: The results compare clinical and basic knowledge between younger and older dental students. Younger students scored higher in understanding basic concepts like structural changes in the periodontal ligament, bone remodeling, tooth eruption enamel structure, cavity design and surgical interventions. However, older students excelled in clinical areas such as maxillofacial development, orthodontic appliances, and developmental anomalies.

Conclusion: This study provides insights into the perceived value of oral histology education among dental students and its application in clinical practice. The findings may be encouraging early clinical involvement while reinforcing basic science concepts can lead to a more well-rounded and confident dental workforce.

Five Techniques of Osseodensification in One Case

2024-09-29T15:40:26-04:00

Initial stability of implants is an important factor for the osseointegration of dental implants. Initial stability of implants can be lost when the bone is insufficient in cases of immediate implantation or when the bone density is insufficient, making it difficult to ensure good initial stability. Many techniques have been used to increase bone density. This study tested the use of five methods to increase bone density in one patient. This study concluded that the five methods used were effective in densifying the bone and achieving clinically acceptable primary stability in low-density bone.

DMFT and PUFA Indices in First Permanent Molars of Iraqi Children in Najaf City

2024-11-06T14:40:15-05:00

Objective: To determine the prevalence and severity of caries in the first permanent molars of children aged 8 to 10 years in Najaf, Iraq.

Subjects and Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey involving 1232 children aged 8 to 10 years in schools in Najaf, Iraq. Caries was assessed using the DMFT index and caries severity of permanent teeth was assessed using the PUFA index.

Results: The prevalence of caries in the first permanent molars was 56.1% (n=691). The caries severity of the first permanent molars (PUFA index) was 38.7%, meaning that the children have more severe caries in the first permanent molars.

Conclusion: Caries prevalence and severity increased with age and was high in first permanent molars.

Determination of Operators' Portable X-ray Safety

2024-09-20T15:53:49-04:00

Objective: Ionizing radiation in the form of rays interacts with matter and has immediate and delayed impacts. Applications in dentistry include extraoral and intraoral X-rays and machines can be portable and fixed. A portable X-ray machine is a mobile X-ray device that is smaller than a stationary one. The radiation dose from portable devices to which exposure is allowed should not be higher than 20 mSv annually. The purpose of this study was to compare three portable dental X-rays to determine the quantity of dispersed radiation that affects radiography operators.

Methods: Three types of portable X-ray devices (portable X-ray system (Clarox, Eightieth, and QiN high-frequency microfocus dental X-ray units) were used. An extracted tooth was used for testing. The tooth was X-rayed laying on a flat surface after pouring it into a stone base. Three different radiation devices of different sorts were positioned in front of the tooth individually, with identical dimensions for each device. More than one radiological image was obtained with each of the radiation devices, and radiation levels were recorded.

Results: It was discovered that as radiological images were being taken, the scattered radiation readings for two devices (Clarox and Eightieth) progressively decreased. The recorded readings for QiN were lower.

Conclusion: Comparing the radiometer results revealed that the portable X-ray equipment emits radiation that has an impact on radiation workers. Therefore, radiation safety precautions must be followed, and radiation shields must be employed.

Antimicrobial Efficiency of Hypochlorous Acid Incorporation and its Effect on Surface Properties of Irreversible Hydrocolloid Materials

2024-09-02T16:41:27-04:00

Objective: Conventional approaches for disinfection, including spraying and immersion, resulted in only surface disinfection of impressions. As a result, self-disinfecting impression materials incorporated with antimicrobial compounds require more extensive studies. The incorporation of a disinfectant into irreversible hydrocolloid impression materials could eliminate the need for the disinfection step by conventional approaches, including spraying and immersion which only result in surface disinfection of impressions. The study was aimed to investigate the effect of incorporation of hypochlorous acid in irreversible hydrocolloid materials on antimicrobial efficiency, detail reproduction, and dimensional stability.

Materials and Methods: Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) was used in two concentrations, 100 ppm and 200 ppm, and mixed with alginate powder to compare with the control group (distilled water mixed with alginate). Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosawere chosen for assessing the antimicrobial activity with the disk diffusion test. In addition, the dimensional stability and reproduction of details were tested.

Results: The results revealed that both HOCl concentrations of 100 ppm and 200 ppm imposed significant antimicrobial activity against all three tested microorganisms. There was no significant difference regarding reproduction of details, but the addition of the antimicrobial had a significant adverse effect on the alginate’s dimensional stability.

Conclusion: It may be concluded that the incorporation of HOCL into irreversible hydrocolloid impression material resulted in an impression with antimicrobial activity. In addition, there was no effect on the impression materials ability to reproduce surface details, but the antimicrobial addition may affect its dimensional stability.

Inspecting Candida Oral Infections among Diabetics

2024-08-28T05:38:21-04:00

Objective: Oral candidiasis infection is more prevalent in diabetic patients. There are numerous factors that can exacerbate the colonization of Candida species in the oral cavity, including salivary pH disorders and xerostomia. The study aimed to evaluate Candida spp. resistance to antifungal agents and compare their colonization levels in diabetics and nondiabetics oral cavities.

Methods: We conducted the investigation from February 2023 to April 2023. We conducted the following analyses after collecting 100 oral samples: gram stain, culture on Sabaroud dextrose agar, and direct microscopic inspection. The Vitek 2 System confirmed the yeasts through carbohydrate assimilation profiles.

Results: Out of 100 oral samples cultured, 69 yielded Candida species. Fifty-two samples were from diabetics and 17 were from nondiabetic patients. The frequencies of isolated Candida species, including C. albicans, were 28, C. tropicalis 17, C. krusei 16, C. glabrata 6, and C. dubliniensis 2. The results indicated that C. albicans exhibited higher resistance rates against clotrimazole, itraconazole, and voriconazole than the no albicans Candida species. Clotrimazole, itraconazole, and voriconazole, on the other hand, showed no effect on 11, 29, and 18 samples for all Candida species, respectively.

Conclusion: C. albicans was the most prevalent Candida species in people with diabetes; however, other Candida species were common. Fluconazole and nystatin often treat oral Candida infections.

Management of Gingival Enlargement during Orthodontic Treatment by Diode Lasers versus Conventional Method

2024-08-19T15:44:38-04:00

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of diode lasers (810-980 nm) in treating gingival enlargement caused by orthodontic appliances. Additionally, to compare the outcomes of diode laser treatment with the conventional method (scalpel) in managing gingival enlargement.

Materials and Methods: For this study, a total of 20 patients ranging in age from 14 to 28 years old were included. These individuals were divided into two groups: the laser group and the conventional group. In the laser group, surgery was performed on 10 patients using an 810–980 nm diode laser in continuous wave mode with energy settings of 1.5–2 watts. On the other hand, the conventional group also consisted of 10 patients who underwent gingival enlargement management due to an orthodontic appliance using a scalpel. To assess pain and discomfort, patients were provided with a questionnaire to record their experiences daily for the first seven days following the surgery. Pain and discomfort were evaluated using a verbal rating scale. During follow-up visits, plaque index, bleeding on probing, healing, and swelling were assessed. Additionally, the duration of the surgery and bleeding scores were recorded during the surgical procedure.

Results: The initial postoperative bleeding score was significantly lower in the laser group compared to the conventional group. The duration of the procedure was shorter in the laser group than in the conventional group. Additionally, the laser group exhibited lower levels of PI and BOP percentages compared to the conventional group. Notably, there was a significant different in the percentage of BOP, with a P=0.03 in the first week, and a P=0.002 in the fourth week, as determined by T-tests. When comparing individuals in the laser group to those in the conventional group, it was observed that the pain and discomfort scores decreased.

Furthermore, the swelling score was significantly lower in the laser group compared to the conventional group, particularly in the third week (Chi square statistic = 4.9, P=0.05). Lastly, there was a significant variation in healing scores in the laser group throughout all weeks of follow-up, as indicated by the T-test (P< 0.05).

Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that diode lasers operating within the range of 810-980 nm, when set at the appropriate power level, prove to be an effective method for managing gingal enlargement caused by orthodontic appliances.

Evaluation of the Accuracy of Different Apex Locaters with 45° Apical Root Resorption

2024-11-01T17:12:48-04:00

Aim: This study was aimed to calculate the working length (WL) of permanent teeth with simulated 45° resorption of the apical part of the root using four electric apex locaters (EALs): NSK, Woodpecker III, Woodpecker V, and Eighteeth.

Methods: Twenty maxillary anterior single-rooted teeth were removed. Following tooth preparation to offer access to the root canal and replicate the 45° apical root resorption, each tooth underwent a microscope-assisted working length determination process. The four apex locaters measured each individual tooth and calculated electronic working lengths.

Results: No discernible change existed between all four apex locater devices.

Conclusion: NSK, Woodpecker III, Woodpecker V, and Eighteeth provide virtually the same measurement for 45 apical root resorption in single rooted teeth.

Smart Phone Application Reminder for Patients with Fixed Orthodontic Appliance to Improve Oral Hygiene

2024-03-31T16:43:22-04:00

INTRODUCTION: In light of the extensive use of mobile phones and their associated software applications (Apps), as well as the undisputed role of reminders and Apps in behavioral interventions, the goal of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of an application for smartphones (Brush DJ) to enhance oral hygiene compliance in individuals with fixed orthodontic therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective study, 82 patients between the ages of 18 and 22 were divided into four groups, two of which (the experimental group and the control group) had just begun fixed orthodontic treatment (called New) and the other two (the experimental group and the control group) were have passed fifth months from the beginning of the treatment (called Old). Patients in the intervention group were asked to use the Brush DJ smartphone App after getting traditional oral hygiene training, compared to patients in the control group who got conventional oral hygiene instruction. At baseline (T0), 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks following the start of the study, the plaque index (PI) and marginal bleeding index (MBI) were measured. Only patients with the software completed a questionnaire to determine how frequently and how long they brushed their teeth each day.

RESULTS: Both New and Old orthodontic cases in the intervention groups showed improvements in PI, whereas the parameter of bleeding showed no significant differences. During the follow-up period, application usage was associated with a higher brushing frequency and duration.

CONCLUSION: Apps might significantly improve the oral hygiene compliance of orthodontic patients by acting as reminders and motivators.

Clinical Efficiency of Diode Lasers (810+980nm) in Exposure of Maxillary Impacted Canines

2024-08-13T03:06:24-04:00

Objective: An impacted canine has no eruption following the completion of the normal growth pattern. To expose an impacted canine, a laser can be used as an additional tool in addition to a scalpel and electrocautery. To compare the effectiveness of a dual diode laser with a traditional scalpel procedure for exposing impacted canines, with the parameters of bleeding and pain as main outcomes.

Methods: Thirty patients were chosen for this investigation. Each of them needed an operation for canine impaction, and they were divided into two groups at random: the study group, which were treated with a dual diode laser (980+810nm), and included fifteen patients, and the control group, which were treated with a scalpel. Data obtained prior to, during, and following surgery were compared. There were follow-ups after two hours, on the second, and third days after surgery. The Student's t and the one-way ANOVA tests were used for all comparisons.

Results: Thirteen males and seventeen females were examined in this study, and their mean age was 23 years. Intraoperative bleeding score showed a significantly decrease in laser group versus the surgical blade group (0.4666 vs. 0.29333, P=0.001). The postoperative pain score was significantly decreased in the laser group compared to the surgical blade group, at two hours (4.6 vs 8.233, P = 0.001), two days (2.067 vs 4.833, P=0.001), and three days (1.066 vs 2.01, P=0.001). There were significant differences in the pain and bleeding scores (P≤ 0.05).

Conclusion: When using a dual diode laser (810+910nm) as opposed to a scalpel, hemostasis can be achieved with minimal pain.

Maximum mouth opening measurement in relation to maximum bite force among children

2024-08-14T01:27:19-04:00

Objective: This research aimed to study the relation between maximal bite force (MBF) and maximum mouth opening among 12-year-old school children.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 400 children aged 12 years (194 boys and 206 girls) were examined. The MBF for the right and left side, as well as the anterior region, were evaluated for all children. The MMO was measured using an electronic digital caliper. To analyze the data path analysis method was used.

Results: Boys showed a higher MMO of 48.797 ± 6.500 than girls (46.710 ± 5.926 mm). The MMO increased with increasing MBF, with significant differences between females and males.

Conclusion: The MMO was higher in boys than in girls. Gender plays a significant role in MBF strength.

Assessment of Iraqi dental practitioners' and undergraduate students' knowledge regarding dentin hypersensitivity management: A cross-sectional study

2024-08-15T18:28:51-04:00

Objective: The characteristic of dentin hypersensitivity is brief, intense pain that results from exposed dentin in reaction to a variety of stimuli, including mechanical, thermal, osmotic, or chemical factors. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge among undergraduate students and practicing dentists in Karbala City, Iraq, concerning the mechanisms, etiology, and treatment of dentin hypersensitivity (DH).

Methods: 102 surveys were distributed via Google Forms to general practitioners and fourth- and fifth-year dental students at the Kerbala College of Dentistry in Iraq. The data were inputted into Microsoft Excel and analyzed using SPSS 22.0 for Windows as frequency distribution tables and figures.

Results: Despite the differences in comprehension and expertise between students and dentists, a comparative analysis of their responses to various questions revealed several similarities. According to the survey, 28.8% of students reported that 10% of patients suffered from DH, while 32% of dentists reported the same. Additionally, 72% of dentists and 71.2% of students stated that DH is a severe problem for patients. Both dentists, 30%, and 26.9% of students, indicated that DH lasted for less than 2 weeks. According to dentists and students, females are more affected by DH (74%; n=37) and (71%; n=37), respectively.

Conclusion: Students and dentists showed a similar level of knowledge on DH.

Using Gene Transfer Technology to Restore the Salivary Gland Function in Xerostomia Patients following Radiation Therapy of Head and Neck Cancer

2024-09-25T13:45:31-04:00

Many diseases can be treated by gene therapy using a modified virus to carry the corrected required gene to infect the target cells. The goal of this report is presenting the planning for gene therapy for patients suffering from head and neck cancer to alleviate their loss of saliva function.

The Effects of Selenium Nanoparticles on the Osseointegration of a Titanium Implant in Rabbits: A Histomorphometric Investigation

2024-09-06T08:35:40-04:00

Objective: One of the unique tooth or tooth replacement prosthesis in the dental implant. To encourage bone formation where it is applied, our approach uses a biomaterial system that is easily obtainable, and able to induce osteoinductive growth factor. Selenium nanoparticles are

Methods: Thirty-two implants consisting of commercially pure titanium rod were given to sixteen New Zealand rabbits. One implant was placed in each tibia of each rabbit. After implantation, eight rabbits were sacrificed every one to six weeks. For each animal, the left tibia implant was treated with selenium nanoparticles, whereas the right tibia implant was left uncoated. After staining each section with hematoxylin and eosin, the sections were examined histologically and assessed for histomorphometric analysis, which counted the number of bone particles that were formed.

Results: Selenium nanoparticle-coated titanium implants showed earlier bone growth, mineralization, and maturation than control comparisons. After all the bone parameters were examined histomorphometrically for the study, the healing durations of the two types of implants differed significantly.

Conclusion: Selenium nanoparticle-coated titanium implants had improved healing and osseointegration.

Assessment of Periodontal Health Status and Treatment Needs Among Dental Students of Al-Kufa University by Using the Community Periodontal Index for Treatment Needs: A Cross-Sectional Study

2024-10-08T05:48:28-04:00

Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the periodontal status and treatment needs of undergraduate dental students at Al-Kufa University in Iraq and investigated the influence of demographic factors (age and gender) and oral hygiene practices (tooth brushing technique, frequency of brushing, use of interdental aids, dental visit patterns) on periodontal health.

Materials and Methods: A sample of 200 undergraduate dental students (aged 18-24 years) was selected using a multistage systematic random sampling procedure during the 2023-2024 academic year. Periodontal health was assessed using the World Health Organization Community Periodontal Index for Treatment Needs (CPITN). The CPITN probe was used to evaluate bleeding on probing, presence of calculus, plaque retentive factors, and pocket depths (4, 5, and 6 mm). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23, and the Pearson’s chi-square test was used to assess associations, with a p-value ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of periodontal disease (86.5%) among the students. Calculus was the most frequent finding (65.5%), while only 13.5% of students exhibited a healthy periodontium. The majority (69%) required scaling and root planning (TN2). Female students exhibited significantly healthier periodontia compared to males (p<0.05). Older students (21-24 years) had a significantly higher prevalence of deeper periodontal pockets than younger students (p<0.05). Smoking was significantly associated with poorer periodontal health (p<0.05). A statistically significant association was found between the frequency of tooth brushing and periodontal health (p<0.05), with those brushing twice daily showing better periodontal status. While not statistically significant, the use of interdental aids was associated with healthier periodontia. Students with irregular dental visit patterns had a higher prevalence of calculus (p<0.05).

Conclusion: This study found a high prevalence of periodontal disease and significant treatment needs among undergraduate dental students at Al-Kufa University. Gender, age, smoking status, and oral hygiene practices were associated with periodontal health. These findings emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive oral health education programs, incorporating behavioral change strategies and promoting the importance of preventive dental care.