Background: Laser irradiation has been widely utilized in the modification of material surfaces by altering their microstructure and topography, however, the effect of irradiation parameters such as power output and beam angle to bonding performance of metallic substrates remain insufficiently understood, especially for Ni-Cr metals. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of diode laser power in different beam angles on the surface of Nickel-Chromium (Ni-Cr) metals to improve bonding strength of adhesive bridge. Materials and Methods: Thirty-six cylindrical Ni-Cr metals, with a thickness of 2.0-3.0 mm, and 36 post-extraction maxillary premolars were divided into 6 groups (n=6). A diode laser irradiation was performed on metal samples with beam-angles of 30°, 60°, and 90° and powers of 2.0 watts and 4.0 watts. Teeth were then cemented into metal samples using resin cement. After treatment, shear-bond strength (SB-Strength) testing was carried out using a Universal Testing Machine (UTM). Meanwhile, the samples also were evaluated using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). Data were analyzed using a T-test, ANOVA test, and LSD test. Results: A significant SB-strength was found in 30° for 2.0 watt and 90° for 4.0 watt respectively 4.48±1.97 MPa and 5.27±2.50 MPa. Morphological analysis suggested that 30° allows more uniform surface roughness, while 90°allows similar patterns but with higher depth. Conclusion: These results provide practical guidance for clinicians by indicating that perpendicular laser irradiation (90°) at controlled power settings may improve bonding reliability in adhesive bridge procedures involving Ni–Cr frameworks
Background: This study aimed to assess the impact of topical kappa- carrageenan gel on alleviating Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) symptoms in type 2 diabetic patients and to assess its impact on salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA) and alpha-amylase levels. Material and methods: 156 participants were included: 104 type 2 diabetic patients with BMS (52 males, 52 females) and 52 healthy controls. Diabetes diagnosis was confirmed through fasting blood glucose and HbA1c tests. BMS diagnosis was established clinically, using criteria and laboratory tests to exclude other causes. Kappa carrageenan gel was prepared and applied topically to relieve BMS symptoms. Unstimulated whole saliva samples were collected to measure salivary IgA and alpha-amylase levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The collection of saliva was conducted at two different time points for the BMS group and once for the controls. Results: Application of carrageenan gel showed no significant effect on salivary IgA levels in diabetic BMS patients. However, there was a significant reduction in salivary alpha-amylase levels after carrageenan gel application, indicating a possible response to treatment. Conclusions: Kappa carrageenan gel may serve as a potential therapeutic option for relieving the burning sensation and pain associated with BMS in patients with type 2 diabetes. While the gel did not influence IgA levels, the significant reduction in salivary alpha-amylase suggests an impact on stress-related salivary biomarkers, supporting its symptomatic relief potential in managing BMS in diabetic patients.
Background: Cephalometric analysis is essential in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. With the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical practice, automated platforms such as WebCeph have been introduced; however, their accuracy and reliability across different types of measurements remain a concerns. Objectives: evaluate the agreement and reliability between skeletal and dentoalveolar cephalometric measurements obtained using an AI-based platform (WebCeph) and digital manual tracing performed with AutoCAD.Materials and Methods: A total of 100 lateral cephalograms were analyzed using WebCeph (AI-driven software) and digital manual tracing in AutoCAD. Fourteen Steiner and Tweed variables were selected and categorized into skeletal and dentoalveolar measurements. Statistical comparisons were performed using paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, depending on data distribution. Agreement between the two methods was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and Bland–Altman analysis. Conclusion: Overall agreement between WebCeph and AutoCAD was good for most variables (ICC ≥ 0.75). Skeletal and dentoalveolar measurements showed comparable reliability, although skeletal measurements demonstrated slightly smaller mean differences and narrower limits of agreement. Greater variability was observed in dentoalveolar variables, particularly those related to mandibular incisor inclination. Conclusion:WebCeph provides clinically reliable cephalometric measurements and can be considered a supportive diagnostic tool. However, selective manual verification is essential.
Background: The materials and techniques of orthodontic bonding systems remain a pivotal concern in orthodontic research. This issue is further complicated by orthodontists' preferences. To assess the effect of knowledge and practice on the attitudes of orthodontists towards bonding materials and techniques. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted using Google Forms. The questionnaire comprised 17 multiple-choice questions that targeted orthodontists' awareness, knowledge, and attitude towards bonding materials. It was distributed via email or social networking platforms to specialist Iraqi orthodontists. Results: A total of 176 participants responded with nearly equal representation between the sexes. The majority of respondents (approximately 70%) held an M.Sc. degree, and slightly more than half the sample worked in both governmental and private clinics. All participants were aware of the etch and rinse adhesive system, and the majority used it with light curing as the activation method. The effect of academic degrees and place of work was evident in some responses related to the selection and management of bonding adhesive. Conclusions: The orthodontists preferred the traditional etch and rinse technique to minimise bracket loss and maintain treatment flow. The self-etch primer system was the preferred option when prioritising safety, time efficiency, reduced technique sensitivity, and aerosol reduction. Clinical choices may be significantly shaped by skills and information from initial training, despite the available evidence-base. Future decision-making should prioritise leveraging scientific evidence effectively.
Background: Oral cancer is a major problem in dentistry and remains a major global health issue. In oral cancer, BCL-2, which plays a role in regulating cell death, is overexpressed, thus leading to its progression and resistance to chemotherapy. Clausena excavata contains a coumarin called nordentatin, which has been shown to have anticancer properties. Particularly with regard to its function as a BCL-2 inhibitor, the underlying molecular mechanism is yet unknown. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the potential of nordentatin as a BCL-2 protein inhibitor through molecular docking and then validate it with molecular dynamics. Materials and Methods: Nordentatin's ADMET and bioactivity were estimated in silico. AutoDock Vina was used for molecular docking against BCL-2 using methotrexate as a comparison ligand and venetoclax as a reference ligand. PyMOL and Biovia Discovery Studio were then used for interaction analysis. Complex stability was assessed using a YASARA molecular dynamics simulation. Results: Nordentatin exhibits potential as an anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, antioxidant, and anticancer drug based on bioactivity predictions. ADMET analysis showed that this compound is readily absorbed in the intestine, has moderate clearance, limited penetration into the central nervous system, and low toxicity, thus indicating a favorable pharmacokinetic and safety profile. Molecular docking results show that nordentatin has a fairly strong binding affinity for BCL-2 with a value of −7.4 kcal/mol, which is mainly influenced by hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that the BCL-2–nordentatin complex remains stable, with an RMSD value below ±2 Å, a compact Rg profile, and favorable RMSF fluctuations. Conclusion: The results indicate that nordentatin binds strongly and stably to BCL-2, thus offering potential for development as a BCL-2 inhibitor for oral cancer therapy.
Background: Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) resin is extensively utilized in prosthodontics and orthodontics, particularly in fabricating artificial teeth, provisional crowns, denture bases, and orthodontic retainers. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporating cerium oxide and polyether ether ketone nanoparticle (CP) composite into PMMA resin on transverse strength, impact strength, surface hardness, and denture base adaptation. Materials and Methods: A total of 120 PMMA specimens were divided into three groups based on the concentration of CP composite added to PMMA resin, with each group consisting of 40 specimens: a control group without fillers, group (A) containing 1% wt. of composite filler with a ratio of 30% cerium oxide and 70% polyether ether ketone, and group (B) comprising 3% wt. of composite with a ratio of 50% ceria, and 50% polyether ether ketone, as determined by the pilot study. Each group was tested for transverse strength, impact strength, surface hardness, and denture base adaptation, with 10 specimens for each test. The tested specimens were examined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE–SEM). The resulting data were statistically analyzed using SPSS at a significance level of P≤0.05. Results: Group B showed a significant statistical increase in transverse and impact strength compared with the other groups. Surface hardness and denture adaptation increased significantly in group A. FTIR analysis revealed transmission peaks and heightened intensity after the addition of the CP composite into the PMMA. The FE–SEM images showed a well-distributed nano CP composite within the PMMA matrix for all experimental groups, with increased agglomeration observed in group B (3%). Conclusion: The incorporation of 3% wt. CP into PMMA resin significantly improved transverse and impact strength compared with 1% wt. and the control. The surface hardness and denture base adaptation improved when 1% wt. CP was incorporated into the PMMA resin compared with the other tested groups.
Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) shows wide variation in clinical behavior and outcome, and regional risk factors contribute to that variation. Local clinicopathological data are therefore needed before management strategies can be matched to the population being served. Aims: To analyze tumor characteristics, staging patterns, treatment modalities, and survival outcomes in a cohort of HNSCC patients from Baghdad, Iraq. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 40 HNSCC patients diagnosed between 2018-2022. Comprehensive data collection included demographics, tumor characteristics, TNM staging (AJCC 8th ed.), histopathological features, treatment modalities, and survival outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier survival curves, logistic regression, and correlation analysis. Results: The mean patient age was 62.98 years (range: 43-85), with a male predominance (80%). Laryngeal tumors were most prevalent (42.5%). Patients typically presented with large tumors (mean size: 6.94 cm) and aggressive histopathological features, including high rates of lymphovascular invasion (77.5%) and perineural invasion (47.5%). Advanced disease (Stage IV) was present in 50% of cases at diagnosis. Combined multimodal therapy was the most common treatment approach (57.1%). Survival showed a strong negative correlation with tumor stage (p < 0.0001), with Stage IV patients having a median survival of 0.67 years compared to over 4 years for early-stage disease. Conclusion: HNSCC in this Baghdad-based series was usually diagnosed late and showed biologically aggressive features, with correspondingly poor survival. Stage at diagnosis was the dominant prognostic factor. Earlier detection and locally relevant public-health measures targeting the risk profile of the region are needed.
Background: To compare autologous platelet concentrates (platelet-rich plasma [PRP] and platelet-rich fibrin [PRF]) with conventional induced blood clot (BC) and other scaffold approaches in regenerative endodontic therapy (RET) for necrotic immature permanent teeth. Data: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting clinical outcomes and/or radiographic measures of continued root development (e.g., root length, dentinal wall thickness, apical closure, periapical healing) after RET. Sources: A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was conducted for studies published from February 2015 to February 2025. Reference lists of included studies were hand-searched. The review followed PRISMA 2020 reporting guidance. Study selection: Eligible studies were human RCTs evaluating PRP and/or PRF as a scaffold for RET in necrotic immature permanent teeth, with a comparator scaffold (BC or another platelet-derived scaffold). Two reviewers independently screened and selected studies. Six RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Conclusions: Across six small-to-moderate sized RCTs, platelet concentrates achieved high clinical survival and infection control comparable to BC. Radiographic outcomes (root length and wall thickening, apical closure, and periapical healing) were inconsistently reported and variably favored PRP/PRF or showed no between-group differences. Substantial methodological and clinical heterogeneity (protocols, imaging modalities, outcome definitions, and follow-up) limited quantitative synthesis. Standardized RET protocols and a core outcome set, with validated radiographic measurements (including CBCT where feasible), are needed to determine whether platelet concentrates provide clinically meaningful advantages over BC.
Background: This study evaluated the effectiveness of Laser-Activated Irrigation (LAI), XP-Endo Finisher, and Endo Activator in removing the smear layer from root canal walls by assessing dentinal tubule opening in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds using scanning electron microscopy. Materials and Methods: Thirty single-rooted human anterior teeth were decoronated to a standardized length and prepared using the WaveOne Gold primary rotary system. The samples were randomly divided into three experimental groups (n=10): LAI, XP-Endo Finisher, and Endo Activator, along with a control group irrigated using a conventional syringe technique. The roots were split longitudinally and examined under SEM at 1000x magnification. Images were obtained from the coronal, middle, and apical thirds. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed among the three experimental groups in any root third. However, all experimental groups showed significantly better smear layer removal compared with the control group. LAI demonstrated minimal smear layer and greater dentinal tubule openness in the coronal and middle thirds, although remnants persisted apically. The XP-Endo Finisher showed superior performance in the apical third, producing a thinner smear layer. The Endo Activator was most effective in the middle third but left substantial smear layer coverage apically. Complete smear layer removal in the apical third was not achieved by any method. Conclusions: XP-Endo Finisher was most effective apically; Endo Activator in the middle third; and LAI coronally. Utilizing advanced and varied techniques improves smear removal over conventional irrigation.
Background: Periodontal disease is highly prevalent among insulin-resistant and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) subjects. However, the pathogenesis and associated factors of periodontal disease among these subjects are not well known. Recently, it has been re-ported that oxidative stress-antioxidant (redox) imbalance may play an important role in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. Objective: Determine the relation between three salivary redox biomarkers; total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidative status (TOS), advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and periodontal disease parameters in IR and controlled T2DM (C-T2DM) subjects. Methods: An analytical observational study was conducted on 180 participants aged between 35 and 65 years; males and females were di-vided into three groups, each consisting of 60 individuals: Insulin resistance group (IR), controlled-type2 diabetics group (C-T2DM), and healthy control group. Periodontal pa-rameters were examined: Dental plaque index (PLI), bleeding on probing percentage (BOP%), probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL), according to these, three subgroups presenting (healthy periodontium, gingivitis, or periodontitis) were conducted. Un-stimulated saliva was collected, and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine salivary AGEs, while colorimetric assays were used to determine salivary TAC and TOS. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Results: A significant correlation between TOS and PLI and an inverse correlation between TAC and PLI in the periodontitis subgroup of the control subjects were found. In multiple regression analysis, salivary AGEs and CAL were inversely associated in the C-T2DM group. Conclusion: Salivary TOS and AGEs were the highest in the periodontitis subgroup of the IR and C-T2DM groups, while, the salivary TAC was found the lease in the both IR and C-T2DM groups when compared to the control group. In- addition to that, there were a relationship between salivary redox biomarkers and periodontal parameters. However, salivary AGEs were considered a significant independent predictor for CAL in C-T2DM.
Background: New technologies have developed to allow newly created enamel caries to be remineralized. Silver nanoparticle (NP) products have a strong inhibitory and bactericidal effect. Silver ions may penetrate carious lesions, which may precipitate and cause enamel to harden. Objectives: This study evaluates and compares the effectiveness of the application of silver NPs with sodium fluoride solution on the microhardness of artificially induced demineralization on the enamel surface in comparison with sodium fluoride alone. Materials and methods: Thirteen upper first premolars that were extracted for orthodontic therapy were used. Each tooth was cleaned, inspected, polished and painted with acid-resistant nail polish to create a circular window with a diameter of 2×2mm. Then it was soaked in a demineralizing solution for four days after that the teeth were divided in to three groups (A: untreated, B: treated with silver NPs and 5% sodium fluoride and C: treated with 5% sodium fluoride) groups were immersed for 4 minutes, and all stages were conducted under room temperature. A digital Vickers microhardness tester with a diamond indenter with 500 g of load applied for 30 s directed vertically to the enamel surface was used to measure microhardness. The Vickers microhardness test results show that the solution of sodium fluoride and silver NPs has higher microhardness ratings (mean surface microhardness [SMH] 286.837) than sodium fluoride alone (mean SMH 191.530) with significant P value = 0.00001. Conclusion: Using silver Silver nanoparticles with sodium fluoride is better than using sodium fluoride alone in increasing surface microhardness; thus, it is more promising in remineralizing enamel caries.
Background: Dental biofilm-induced gingivitis is an inflammatory condition resulting from the interaction between dental plaque and the host's immune-inflammatory response at the site level. Objective: examine the anti-plaque and anti-inflammatory properties of GT/SP (Green Tea/Salvadora Persica Linn) mouthwash in individuals with dental biofilm-induced gingivitis. Moreover, a study was conducted to compare the effects of GT/SP with those of CHX (Chlorhexidine) and placebo mouthwashes, and to anticipate outcomes of plaque control together with proposing cut-off points for the predictors on the profile of the salivary biomarker IL-6. Material and Methods: The clinical trial was conducted using a randomized, double-blinded, and parallel design. A total of sixty patients diagnosed with generalized biofilm-induced gingivitis were randomly divided into three groups for the administration of mouthwashes: GT/SP, CHX, and placebo. The study lasted for one month, during which participants used 15 milliliters of GT/SP mouthwash formulation, CHX (0.12%), or a placebo, twice daily. Each individual had two assessments, one at the beginning and another after one month. Before and after each participant’s mouthwash usage, the Patient's plaque level and bleeding on probing were assessed. The quantification of the Salivary IL-6 in saliva was assayed using enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). Results: A significant decrease in salivary interleukin-6 was observed in all three groups. However, there was no significant difference between the GT/SP and CHX groups in intergroup comparisons at second visits (P>0.05). In addition, all treatments significantly decreased the build-up of Plaque, with the mouthwash containing Green Tea (GT) and Salvadora Persica Linn (SP) having a more pronounced effect compared to the other two treatments. Conclusion: Mouthwash with GT/SP exhibited both anti-plaque and anti-inflammatory properties. The above findings suggest that GT/SP may have positive effects in treating dental biofilm-induced gingivitis, making GT/SP a suitable alternative to chlorhexidine.
Background: A single gene mutation causes beta-thalassemia, an autosomal recessive disorder. It's hemolytic anemia that needs constant blood transfusions for life. In children and adolescents with thalassemia major, no clear concepts are found concerning the association between beta-thalassemia and growth retardation is a common side effect. Saliva contains a variety of biochemists, which may affect the severity of dental caries. Aim: This research aimed to evaluate the link between β -thalassemia major, dental caries and growth impairment in relation to some salivary constituents. Materials and Method: As part of an investigation at the Basra/Iraqi Thalassemia Center, 40 thalassemic children aged 10 to 12 were compared to 40 healthy controls in terms of dental caries (who were the same age and gender as the study group). Anthropometric measurements were used to assess their physical development. A sample of unstimulated whole saliva was taken from each child to determine salivary calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase enzyme concentrations. Result: For both the primary and permanent dentition, dental caries experience (dmft/DMFT) was higher among β-thalassemic children, with a statistically significant difference. A higher percentage of thalassemic youngsters were found to be underweight. Although salivary constituents like calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase enzyme were higher in the control group than in the study group, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion: Dental caries and growth impairment were associated with beta-thalassemia major.
Background: Fractures of endodontic files are one of the serious concerns affecting root canal treatment prognosis. Recently, countless innovations have been presented to optimize their microstructure and flexibility, reflected in different commercial brands. However, their performance has not been evaluated in complex root canals. Aim: To evaluate and compare the resistance to cyclic fatigue of three rotary endodontic files utilizing artificial canals designed with different angles and radii of curvature. Materials and Methods: sixty rotary instruments of the following types were used. Group I: Edge endo X7; Group II: Luster dent pliancy total solution; and Group III: Race Evo FKG. Instruments in each group were constrained into two subgroups (n=20) to be examined in artificial canals having a single curvature or a double curvature. The cyclic fatigue resistance of each rotary file was tested, where the number of cycles to fracture (NCF) and the fractured segment length (FL) were recorded. Results: In both single and double curvature canals, the Edge endo X7 files (9162.50 ± 441.14 and 2210.00 ± 341.07, respectively) demonstrated significantly higher resistance to cyclic fatigue than did the Race Evo FK (3866.66 ± 410.99 and 1825.00 ± 230.17, respectively) and Luster dent pliancy total solution (7077.77 ± 1001.84 and 1257.77 ± 126.95, respectively). However, in the double canal tests, the Luster dent pliancy total solution had a greater mean NCF than the Race Evo FK. In relation to the FL, there was no statistically significant difference between any of the groups, and only the edge of the Endo X7 file was significantly different between single- and double-curvature canals (P = 0.058). Conclusion: The Edge Endo X7 rotary file demonstrated greater cyclic fatigue resistance than did the Race Evo FKG and Luster dent pliancy total solution.
Background: Date Palm Seed Oil (DPSO) contains antifungal properties and health benefits due to the presence of essential minerals, nutrients, and antioxidants. Consequently, it has the ability to provide distinct characteristics when combined with Soft Denture Liner Material (SDLM); however, it may have an impact on the latter's physical and mechanical properties. Thus, the current study aimed to show how DPSO [Saudi (SA) or Pakistani (PK)] integration affects the roughness, hardness, wettability (contact angle), and thermal conductivity of SDLM. Materials and Methods: Two hundred SDLM specimens were manufactured and separated into five groups with varied (vol. %) DPSO concentrations depending on each test (n=40) for roughness, hardness, wettability, and thermal conductivity. The SDLM specimens were separated into five categories: Group A (0% pure control) with no DPSO integration, Group B 2.5%, Group C 5% (DPSO) [Saudi (SA)], Group D 2.5%, and Group E 5% (DPSO) [Pakistani (PK)]. All the synthesized samples were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The ANOVA test was employed to demonstrate considerable variance among all of the sample data. Results: Findings indicated substantial differences (P ≤ 0.05) in roughness, hardness, and thermal conductivity testing. There was a significant difference in wettability test results (P < 0.001) across all samples studied. Conclusions: Incorporating DPSO improved SDLM's roughness, hardness, wettability, and thermal conductivity, resulting in more distinctive SDLM. The 5% (DPSO) [SA or PK] produced an optimal proportion that enhanced the SDLM characteristics.
Background: The oral stereognostic ability (OSA) examines an individual's oral functioning and determines how patients respond to various dental therapy. Natural tooth loss may result in a reduction in oral perception. Reduced oral perception has been linked to cognitive deterioration in the elderly. The aim of this study was to assess the oral stereognostic ability among dental implant patients in relation to cognition status and compare them with partially edentulous and fully dentate patients. Material and method: The study group included 90 dental implant patients aged 50-60 years old compared with partially edentulous and fully dentate patients. Five different test samples were used to assess the oral stereognostic ability including (cubic, circle, pyramid, star and cross). The criteria for the assessment of oral stereognostic ability were the time required for the patient to recognize the shape of the samples. The cognition status was assessed using the Self-Administered Gero-cognitive Examination (SAGE) test according to which the participants were divided into two groups poor and good. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS 22, Chicago, Illinois, USA. Results: The mean time is taken to recognize the shape of all samples was less in the fully dentate group followed by the implant group and then the partially edentulous group with a statistically significant difference. Concerning the cognition status, the mean time taken to distinguish the shape of all sample were significantly higher among person with poor than good cognitive status for implant, partially edentulous and fully dentate groups. Conclusion: The results of the current research revealed that loss of natural teeth decreases both cognitive status and oral perception represented by oral stereognosis ability as the oral stereognosis of partially edentulous subjects was significantly poorer than that of fully dentate subjects.
The introduction of three-dimensional technology has revolutionized the orthodontic digital workflow and facilitated diagnosis and treatment planning. The aims of this study were to evaluate the plane-line matching of conventional lateral cephalometric analysis and three dimensional cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to assess the reliability and consistency of linear and angular measurements obtained from the two digital modality. Materials and Methods: Forty five participants with an age range of 18-26 years and Class I skeletal malocclusion were recruited. A standardized cephalometric radiograph and CBCT scans were obtained according to specific indication protocols. The digital images were analyzed using an AI based software, 3D Slicer (version 5.6.2), for enhancement and registration. Anatomical landmarks were allocated and anatomical planes and lines, were aligned for quantitative measurements analysis. Results: The findings indicated an acceptable degree of matching between the two-dimensional cephalometric X-ray analysis and the three-dimensional CBCT analysis. Although linear measurements showed high consistency, some angular measurements presented statistically significant differences between the two modalities. Overall, the paired t-test results indicated that certain measurements, such as ANS-Me and N-Me, exhibited variability, while others, like SN and NB, showed no significant differences. The reliability of measurements was further confirmed using the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), which demonstrated strong consistency across most linear measurements. Conclusion: The study concluded that three-dimensional cephalometric analysis using CBCT provides a promising approach for comprehensive and accurate assessment of craniofacial structures, offering significant advantages over traditional two-dimensional methods.
Background: Alzheimer's disease causes cognitive decline and neuronal death due to amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Current diagnostic methods are intrusive, expensive, and few, but early diagnosis improves patient outcomes. Due to its oral-brain axis relationship to the central nervous system, saliva may be a viable source of non-invasive Alzheimer's biomarkers. This systematic review aimed to assess the diagnostic potential of salivary biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease by carefully reviewing the existing data. Methodology: Studies published between January 1, 2008, and September 30, 2023, were the subject of a thorough literature search in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Relevant data were extracted after studies were evaluated according to predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine criteria were implemented to evaluate the quality of the studies that were incorporated. Results: A total of 36 studies were included in the systematic review, as they met the inclusion criteria. Alzheimer's disease patients exhibited significantly elevated salivary levels of beta-amyloid- 42 and p-tau in comparison to healthy controls. Patients with Alzheimer's disease exhibited non-significant trends in salivary t-tau and lactoferrin. Conclusion: The levels of beta-amyloid-42 and p-tau in the saliva of patients with Alzheimer's disease are significantly altered. Beta-amyloid-42 regard as a best marker in early diagnosis by salivary sample. These findings emphasize the prospect of saliva as a non-invasive source of biomarkers for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Nevertheless, salivary tests must undergo additional validation in larger, well-characterized cohorts and standardization of methodologies before they can be implemented in clinical practice.
Background: Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (Augmentin®), Metronidazole, Amoxil/Metro combination, and Azithromycin are commonly utilized as adjunctive treatment of periodontitis. Moringa oleifera L (Mo) leaves extracts have demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of facultative anaerobic bacteria including Porphyromonas. gingivalis (P. gingivalis), Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Shigella sonnei, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Beta-hemolytic streptococcus, Bacillus megaterium as well as dental biofilm development. Objectives: The present study was set out to determine the antibacterial efficacy of Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (Augmentin®), Metronidazole and Ethanolic extract of Mo leaves against P. gingivalis clinical isolate. Materials and Methods: The minimum inhibition concentrations (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC), and sensitivity of the clinical isolated P. gingivalis against Mo ethanolic leaves extracts, Augmentin, and Metronidazole were determined using two-fold serial dilution, agar well diffusion, and disk diffusion, respectively. The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used for phytochemical analysis of the Mo leaves extract using ethanol solvent. Results: P. gingivalis exhibited inhibition to Mo leaves extract, while it demonstrated resistance to Augmentin and Metronidazole. MIC and MBC of Mo leaves extract were found to be 0.78 mg/ml and 1.56 mg/ml against P. gingivalis, respectively. The extract had highest anti-biofilm effect at the minimum concentrations of 1.55 mg/ml and 0.78 mg/ml equivalent to 0.06% Chlorhexidine compared to its lowest conc at 0.34 mg/ml, and this activity was inversely proportional to the extract’s concentration. Conclusion: While Augmentin and Metronidazole showed no sensitivity against P. gingivalis, the promising antibacterial effect of Mo leaves extract against this bacterium may indicates its potential for use in oral health promotion, suggesting further in vivo studies to validate Mo extracts as alternative adjuncts in periodontitis therapy.
Background: Lithium disilicate veneers rely on both strong resin–ceramic bonding and intimate adaptation for long term success. Universal adhesives containing 10-Methacryloyloxydecyl Dihydrogen Phosphate may enhance the performance of contemporary resin cements, yet evidence for their effect on bioactive and self-adhesive luting agents remains limited. Aim: To compare the shear bond strength (SBS) and internal adaptation of IPS e.max CAD veneers luted to enamel with three resin cements — bioactive dual cure (Predicta), light cure (Variolink Esthetic LC) and self-adhesive (RelyX U200) — used with or without a universal bonding agent. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight sound third molars were prepared to mid enamel, CAD/CAM veneers were etched with 10% hydrofluoric acid and silanated, and teeth were etched with 37 % phosphoric acid. Specimens were allocated randomly (n = 8 per subgroup) to one of six cement–bonding combinations. Bonded subgroups received a 10 MDP universal adhesive; unbonded subgroups did not. After cementation and light curing, all samples were thermocycled 5,000X between 5 °C and 55 °C. SBS was measured using a universal testing machine (1 mm min⁻¹), failure modes were classified at 20× magnification, and marginal/internal gaps were quantified by micro computed tomography (micro-CT). Results: Predicta exhibited the highest SBS in both bonded (140 ± 24 MPa) and unbonded (80 ± 60 MPa) conditions. Variolink LC showed the lowest SBS, especially when unbonded (26 ± 35 MPa). RelyX U200 displayed moderate SBS that increased significantly with bonding (p < 0.05). Micro CT revealed smaller gap volumes for RelyX U200 overall, while Predicta’s adaptation improved notably when bonded. Failure analysis showed predominantly cohesive failures for Predicta and Variolink; RelyX U200 shifted from cohesive to adhesive failures when adhesive was applied (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Applying a universal bonding agent significantly improved both bond strength and internal adaptation of resin cements, particularly Predicta and RelyX U200. Predicta cement combined with 10 MDP adhesive delivered the most favorable enamel–ceramic interface, supporting its clinical use for lithium disilicate veneers.
