Objectives:Bonding to laser-cut dentin is challenging to different types of adhesive systems. This study design aimed to compare the microtensile bond strength (µTBS) of surface prereacted glass (S-PRG)/giomer restoration to both laser-cut dentin and bur-cut dentin bonded with either bioactive hydroxyethyle methacrylate (HEMA)-based adhesive (with S-PRG filler) or HEMA-free silane-based adhesive (without S-PRG filler) in a laboratory simulation of clinical conditions. Materials and Methods:Forty molar teeth were divided equally into four groups (n = 10 per group): bur-cut dentin bonded with FL-Bond II adhesive, laser-cut dentin bonded with FL-Bond II, bur-cut dentin bonded with BeautiBond Xtream universal adhesive, and laser-cut dentin bonded with BeautiBond Xtream. The dentin was prepared using a bur or laser, depending on the assigned group, after occlusal enamel was removed. After restoration using the respective adhesives, the specimens were thermocycled, their µTBSs were tested using a universal testing machine with a load cell of 100 N and a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until they failed, and the failure modes were determined using a digital microscope with a 25x magnification. Two-way ANOVA models were used to statically analyze the collected data. The significance level was set at p < 0.05 for all tests. Statistical analysis was performed with R statistical analysis software Version 4.4.2 for Windows. Results:Two-way ANOVA showed that the type of bonding agent had a significant effect on bond strength, with the FL-Bond II samples (16.31 MPa ± 4.10) having significantly higher bond strengths than the BeautiBond Xtream samples (8.58 MPa ± 1.98). The effect of dentin preparation (bur or laser) was not statistically significant (p = 0.766). By far the most common failure mode was mixed failure (90%). The bioactive adhesives showed good bond performance regardless of the dentin preparation method; however, the HEMA-free silane containing universal adhesive was stronger with bur-cut dentin than laser-cut dentin, and the HEMA-based adhesive was stronger than the HEMA-free adhesive with both types of dentin preparation protocol. Conclusions:Laser irradiation did not affect the dentin bond strength of resin composites, while the adhesive's chemical composition played a decisive role in bond performance. The bond performance of FL-Bond II was superior to BeautiBond Xtream across dentin preparations.
Our body is made up of many elements and compounds that work together to keep us healthy. Among them are trace elements, which are needed only in tiny amounts but play a very large role in protecting our cells from damage. When these trace elements are too low or too high, they can disturb the body's balance and may increase the risk of diseases such as oral cancer. In this study, we investigated how different trace elements are linked to early signs of oral cancer and precancerous conditions over the past 20 years. We reviewed studies available in the PubMed database that used elemental analysis to detect changes in oral tissues before cancer fully develops. Understanding how these trace elements affect oral health can help us shape better prevention policies. If we know which elements people in certain areas lack or have in excess, health authorities can design nutrition-based programs, awareness campaigns, and screening strategies to prevent oral cancer early. Linking science with public health policy can strengthen preventive oral care and help build a future where fewer people develop oral cancer.
Background:Early diagnosis and proper treatment are essential for dental erosion (DE), a condition that is gaining more recognition in recent years. This study surveyed dentists in Southern India to assess their knowledge of DE, diagnostic approaches, and treatment preferences. Methods:We used a self-administered questionnaire (n = 110) aimed at assessing demographics, frequency of DE encounter, perceived prevalence trends, etiological understanding, preventive advice, and preferred treatments. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test of association, multivariate logistic regressions, and clustering analysis were conducted. Results:The sample consisted of 71% females and mean age of 31.46 ± 4.29 years, had predominantly learned about DE in dental schools (85%). Upper incisors were identified as most frequently affected teeth (72%). Most of the preventive counseling focused on reducing acidic intake (58%). No significant association was found between the years of experience and frequency of DE cases seen (p = 0.68). Multinomial regression of treatment choices indicated that specialists pursued invasive restorations like ceramic veneers odds ratio (OR) = 5.42 (95% CI: ~1.23-24.0, p = 0.025) or crowns (95% CI: ~1.12-14.3, p = 0.034) more than the general dentists, whereas higher years of experience was associated with a lower probability of choosing mid-level restorative options (p < 0.05). Clustering analysis revealed three practitioner profiles: (1) an "Aggressive/Referral" cluster of mostly younger dentists who frequently planned crowns and referred cases frequently (67% referral rate), (2) a "Conservative/Preventive" cluster of more experienced general dentists who emphasized monitoring and dietary advice with minimal operative interventions and infrequent referrals, and (3) an "Intermediate" cluster who implemented modern practices like index usage but also held more misconceptions. Conclusion:Dentists in Southern India exhibited a reasonable level of DE awareness. The need for clinical guidelines on erosive tooth wear and ongoing professional education is highlighted by the lower use of standardized indices and discrepancies in clinical management. Training in early detection, cause-specific management of DE, and debunking myths will be necessary to improve patient outcomes in this developing field of dental care.
This study evaluated the morphological, thermal, and mechanical behavior of polylactic acid (PLA) composites modified with conventional self-cured glass-ionomer cement (GIC) (Fuji VII; GC Corporation, Japan)-fully set and ground into powder-or sodium fluoride (NaF; Merck, USA) under simulated oral hydrolytic degradation. PLA based films containing 0-20 wt% fillers were produced by solvent casting, immersed in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) at 37°C for up to 28 days, and characterized using scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and tensile testing. Surface analysis showed that GIC filled PLA maintained a slight roughness and intact morphology with minimal void formation over time, whereas high NaF loading promoted pronounced surface porosity due to filler dissolution and enhanced water ingress. Thermal analysis indicated small increases in glass transition temperature after filler addition and aging, while cold crystallization and melting enthalpies were strongly dependent on filler type and concentration, with 5 wt% GIC supporting high crystallinity and higher loadings progressively suppressing crystal development during aging. Mechanically, pure PLA displayed an initial increase in tensile strength followed by marked deterioration, NaF filled films exhibited concentration dependent weakening particularly at 20 wt%, and PLA containing 5 wt% GIC showed the most stable tensile strength response over 28 days. Overall, PLA containing a low content of GIC, particularly 5 wt%, provides a favorable balance of structural stability and controlled crystallization. These findings warrant further preclinical investigation as a candidate fluoride-releasing and rechargeable material for dental applications. This study does not establish clinical suitability.
Background:Malocclusion is a major global oral health concern and has driven the rapid adoption of clear aligner therapy (CAT) as an esthetic and removable alternative to conventional fixed appliances. However, the widespread use of CAT has raised important concerns regarding its environmental footprint and potential public health implications, including waste generation, chemical leaching, and the release of microplastics. This scoping review aimed to systematically synthesize the available evidence on the environmental and public health implications of CAT and identify key areas in practice, research, and policy to advance toward sustainable oral healthcare services in alignment with the World Health Organization's Global Oral Health Action Plan 2023-2030. Methods:This scoping review was conducted in accordance with Arksey and O'Malley's framework and reported in line with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Eligible sources were identified through a search across four databases, namely, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase, to identify literature addressing environmental or public health aspects of clear aligners, published in English, either in print or online ahead of print, between January 2005 and December 2025. Data charting was conducted, followed by qualitative analysis using ATLAS.ti to identify the key themes emerging from included sources relating to the research question. Results:A total of 61 sources were included. The major themes which emerged from this scoping review included material toxicity and chemical exposure, microplastic and nanoplastic release, environmental burden of CAT, technological transitions in the form of 3D/4D aligners, strategies toward sustainability and governance, regulation, and research gaps. Conclusions:CAT must be recognized not only as an orthodontic innovation but also as an emerging public health and sustainability challenge, highlighting the need for stronger evidence, safer materials, improved waste management, and clearer regulations to align future orthodontic care with Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 13 (Climate Action).
This study aimed to compare the clinical performance of autogenous bone blocks with customized and noncustomized bovine bone blocks for horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation. Forty-eight participants with deficient alveolar ridges were divided into threegroups (n = 16): Group I (autogenous bone graft), Group II (noncustomized bovine bone block), and Group III (customized bovine bone block). Graft success, postsurgical complications, bone formation, and resorption rates were recorded and analyzed after 6 months. Patient satisfaction and postoperative pain were assessed using a visual analog scale. A total of 39 bone blocks were integrated successfully. Survival rates for Groups I, II, and III were 100% (95% CI: 79.4%-100%), 75.0% (95% CI: 47.6%-92.7%), and 68.8% (95% CI: 41.3%-89.0%), respectively (p = 0.07). Dehiscence, screw exposure, and partial bone loss were the most common postoperative complications. Bone formation and resorption did not differ significantly between groups (p = 0.61 and p = 0.12, respectively). Group I experienced significantly higher pain from day 3 to day 7 compared to other groups (p < 0.001), with peak pain on day 6 (5.75 ± 1.12), while Groups II and III reported peak pain on day 3 (3.06 ± 0.92 and 3.44 ± 0.81, respectively). By day 10, pain scores had decreased substantially in all groups, with Group III reporting the lowest scores (0.31 ± 0.48, p = 0.003). Patient satisfaction was highest in Group III (91%). Within the limitations of this prospective comparative study, onlay grafting with bovine bone blocks demonstrated clinically acceptable outcomes for horizontal ridge augmentation, with resorption rates comparable to autogenous grafts. However, the observed survival differences did not reach statistical significance, and the wide confidence intervals reflect the limited sample size, suggesting that clinically meaningful differences cannot be excluded. Customized bovine bone blocks showed similar clinical performance to noncustomized blocks with higher patient satisfaction. Larger randomized controlled trials with longer follow-up are warranted to confirm these findings.
Background:Mandibular third molar impaction is a common clinical condition associated with various functional and pathological complications. Skeletal and morphometric characteristics of the mandible, particularly mandibular ramus dimensions, have been proposed as potential contributors to impaction risk; however, existing evidence remains inconsistent. Objective:To systematically review and quantitatively synthesize the available evidence on the association between mandibular ramus dimensions (height and width) and mandibular third molar impaction. Methods:A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, with the protocol prospectively registered in PROSPERO (Registration ID: CRD420251238995). PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched from inception to October 16, 2025. Observational studies evaluating the relationship between mandibular ramus height and/or width and mandibular third molar impaction were included. Meta-analyses were performed using random-effects models with restricted maximum-likelihood (REML) estimation and Hartung-Knapp adjustment. Ramus height and width were analyzed separately as mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses by study design and sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore heterogeneity. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist. Results:Eleven studies comprising 3570 participants were included, of which nine contributed to the meta-analysis of ramus height and six to ramus width. Meta-analysis demonstrated a significantly smaller mandibular ramus height in individuals with impacted mandibular third molars compared with erupted controls (MD = -1.03 mm; 95% CI: -1.85 to -0.21; p = 0.020), with substantial heterogeneity (I 2 = 98.0%). In contrast, no statistically significant difference was observed for ramus width (MD = 0.66 mm; 95% CI: -0.74 to 2.06; p = 0.281). Subgroup analyses by study design did not demonstrate significant subgroup differences for ramus height but indicated significant between-subgroup variability for ramus width. Sensitivity analyses generally supported the robustness of the findings, although statistical significance for ramus height was attenuated after omission of several influential studies. Eight studies were judged to have low risk of bias and three moderate risk. Conclusion:Reduced mandibular ramus height may be more consistently associated with mandibular third molar impaction than ramus width, although substantial heterogeneity limits definitive conclusions. While sexual dimorphism in ramus morphology is evident, its influence on impaction risk remains unclear. These findings highlight the need for standardized measurement protocols and well-designed longitudinal studies to further clarify the role of mandibular ramus morphology in third molar impaction.
Introduction:The present study aimed to evaluate the bond strength between calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement and dentin exposed to various gutta-percha solvents. Method:A total of 105 dentin discs were obtained from the mid-root of single-rooted human teeth. The lumens were instrumented to achieve a standard diameter of 1.3 mm. The specimens were divided into a control group, which was not exposed to any solvents, and six experimental groups based on the solvents used (chloroform, eucalyptol, and orange oil) and exposure time (2 or 5 min). CEM cement was mixed and introduced into the lumens. The push-out test was performed after 4 days. Statistical analyses were conducted using a one-way ANOVA test (p = 0.05). Results:There were no statistically significant differences among the seven groups (p = 0.087). Conclusion:This study's results show that the use of gutta-percha solvents does not significantly affect the bond strength of CEM cement.
Introduction:Achieving successful root canal treatment requires detailed understanding of the root canal. A clear and detailed understanding of the root canal anatomy of mandibular anterior teeth is of great importance for endodontists. Several techniques have been introduced for evaluating root canal morphology, including cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). The current study applied CBCT to evaluate the root canal configurations and symmetry patterns in the lower anterior teeth in an Iranian sample. Materials and Methods:In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 148 CBCT images from 148 patients at the Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology Clinic were chosen on the basis of predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 852 permanent mandibular anterior teeth were examined to determine the number of roots and canals, and the canal morphology was categorized on the basis of Vertucci's system, as well as symmetry, utilizing CBCT image analysis. The results were compared based on gender and the right versus left side of the mandible. Results:Participant ages ranged between 16 and 60 years, with an average age of 36.76 ± 9.67 years; 44.6% were male and 55.4% were female. Both the lateral and central incisors consistently showed a single root, whereas 3.2% of canines had a secondary root. Second canals were found in 32.6% of centrals, 29.7% of laterals, and 6.1% of canines. The most commonly observed type of Vertucci root canal morphology was type I, followed by type III for incisors, while type I was also predominant in canines. The symmetry rates for centrals, laterals, and canines were 90.1%, 93.1%, and 91.4%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the number of roots and canals, morphological frequency, or symmetry between female and male patients or between both sides of the mandible. Conclusion:Mandibular anterior teeth predominantly exhibit single-rooted structures with one root canal. Vertucci type I morphology is the most prevalent among these teeth, with morphological frequency unaffected by jaw side or sex. Additionally, the findings indicate a high degree of symmetry among mandibular anterior teeth, with no significant differences between genders.
Aim:This study aimed to map the publication landscape, intellectual structure and thematic organisation of Salvadora persica (miswak) research in oral health using bibliometric analysis. Methods:The Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection was used to retrieve publications. Search terms were pre-determined on S. persica and oral health. The performance assessment was based on publication trends, high-productivity authors and countries, and the most-cited articles. Co-citation, bibliographic coupling and keyword co-occurrence analysis were carried out using VOSviewer to visualise intellectual structures and research themes. Findings:A total of 295 journal articles were included in the final dataset, with 3035 citations in total and 2795 excluding self-citations. The number of research outputs has grown significantly since 2014. The major geographical contributors were Saudi Arabia, India and Egypt. Co-citation analysis showed that the intellectual structure of the field is anchored in references related to preventive dentistry, oral hygiene practices, periodontal health, phytochemistry and antimicrobial research. Four significant thematic groups were identified through bibliographic coupling and keyword searches: antimicrobial and antioxidant mechanisms; behavioural and preventive oral health practices; extract-based and clinical applications in dental caries management; and plaque control and gingival health outcomes. The clusters indicate that the literature is organised around traditional oral hygiene use, antimicrobial and phytochemical mechanisms, clinical oral health outcomes and natural product applications. Conclusion:The evidence base for Salvadora persica has evolved into a structured, multidisciplinary field. The literature increasingly frames miswak as a potential adjunct to conventional oral hygiene; however, bibliometric findings alone cannot establish clinical effectiveness.
Purpose:Primary implant stability is a key factor for successful osseointegration and may be influenced by osteotomy preparation techniques, particularly in low-density bone. Thus, this study compared undersized drilling (UD), UD combined with osseodensification, and sequential osseodensification protocols with varying degrees of undersizing in simulated bone types III and IV with respect to implant stability. Additionally, the relationships between insertion torque (IT), removal torque (RT), and implant stability quotient (ISQ) were analyzed. Materials and Methods:Eighty implants (4.0 × 11 mm) were placed in polyurethane blocks simulating type III and IV bone with a cortical layer. Four osteotomy protocols were tested: UD, UD plus osseodensification (OD1), and sequential osseodensification with -0.5 mm (OD2) and -0.7 mm (OD3) undersizing. Primary stability was assessed using IT, RT, and ISQ measurements. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis (α = 0.05). Results:OD2 and OD3 produced higher IT values in both bone types compared with UD and OD1. In type III bone, OD3 showed the highest RT values, while in type IV bone, OD2 and OD3 were significantly higher than UD and OD1. ISQ values were higher for osseodensification protocols in type III bone, whereas no significant differences were observed in type IV bone. A strong correlation was found between IT and RT (r = 0.746), whereas ISQ showed weaker associations with torque. Conclusion:The use of sequential osseodensification protocols yielded superior mechanical stability parameters, specifically in IT and RT, in synthetic (polyurethane) bone models. However, improvements in ISQ were predominantly noted in the denser type III model. Importantly, because the tested protocols involved different drill designs and underpreparation dimensions, these enhancements reflect the success of the overall surgical strategy rather than the isolated effect of osseous densification.
Objectives:This study compared the bond strength of primary molar bands to zirconia crowns (ZCs) and stainless-steel crowns (SSCs) following sandblasting and application of glass ionomer (GI) and self-adhesive resin cements. Materials and Methods:This in vitro study was conducted on 48 monolithic ZCs and 48 primary mandibular second molar SSCs mounted in auto-polymerizing acrylic resin in cylindrical molds. Orthodontic wire was used to create a 70-mm U-shaped loop soldered to the mid-buccal and mid-lingual surfaces perpendicular to the occlusal surface. The specimens were assigned to 8 groups for the bonding of sandblasted and non-sandblasted bands to SSCs and ZCs with GI and self-adhesive resin cement. After the interventions and incubation in artificial saliva at 37°C for 24 h, the specimens were thermo-cycled (5000 cycles), and their bond strength was measured in a universal testing machine (1 mm/minute). Data were analyzed by three-way ANOVA (alpha = 0.05). Results:The bond strength was the highest in the sandblasted band bonded to SSC with resin cement and the lowest in the non-sandblasted band bonded to ZC with GI. Irrespective of crown type, resin cement yielded a significantly higher bond strength than GI (p < 0.001). Also, irrespective of crown and cement type, sandblasting significantly increased the bond strength (p = 0.004). Conclusion:The bond strength provided by resin cement was significantly higher than GI cement. Sandblasting of the band significantly increased the bond strength, but the effect of crown type on the bond strength was not significant.
Background:Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly influencing dentistry; however, senior dental students' readiness to understand and use AI remains insufficiently explored in underrepresented settings. This study assessed knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, and readiness toward AI among senior dental students in Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Methods:A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 168 senior dental students using an expert-reviewed and pilot-tested questionnaire adapted from previously used instruments. AI-related readiness was assessed using a descriptive knowledge/use index and two normalized composite scores: perception/clinical-application and attitude/future-expectation scores. Internal consistency was assessed for the two multi-item composite scores. Results:Self-rated AI knowledge was moderate in 45.2% of students and high in 11.9%, while prior involvement in AI-related development or projects was limited (5.4%). The knowledge/use index was low (0.25 ± 0.20), indicating limited practical exposure and familiarity. In contrast, the perception/clinical-application score was high (0.69 ± 0.16), with favorable views particularly toward implant planning, radiographic caries detection, quality control, and diagnosis and treatment planning. The attitude/future-expectation score was also high (0.69 ± 0.26), indicating positive expectations regarding the future role of AI in dentistry. The perception/clinical-application score showed acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.78), while the attitude/future-expectation score showed high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.86). No statistically significant differences were observed in knowledge/use, perception/clinical-application, or attitude/future-expectation scores according to gender or year of study. Conclusion:Senior dental students demonstrated favorable perceptions and expectations toward AI in dentistry, particularly for diagnostic and treatment-related applications. However, practical exposure and AI-related use were limited, and concerns remained regarding empathy, accountability, ethical issues, and human oversight. Because this was an Erbil-based convenience sample, the findings should be interpreted cautiously and may not generalize to all dental students.
Objective:To compare the alignment efficiency, arch dimensional changes, and passive extraction space closure between between self-ligating brackets (SLBs) and conventional brackets (CBs). Materials and Methods:This randomized controlled trial on 70 participants (13-30 years) with moderate to severe crowding, skeletal Class I or mild to moderate Class II malocclusions, all requiring premolar extractions, who were randomly assigned to CB (n = 35) or SLB (n = 35) groups. Baseline age, gender, crowding, and malocclusion type were recorded. Standardized 0.022-inch MBT brackets were bonded, with alignment started using 0.014-inch nickel-titanium (NiTi) archwires and monthly follow-ups. Outcomes-Little's Irregularity Index, intercanine and intermolar widths, and passive extraction space closure-were measured on blinded casts at baseline, 3, 6, and 9 months using digital calipers, with no active space-closing auxiliaries. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models with repeated measures and covariates; regression coefficients with 95% CIs were reported, and p ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results:Over the 9-month observation period, both groups showed substantial improvement in alignment. SLBs demonstrated faster early alignment, with greater reductions in Little's Irregularity Index at 3 months in both arches (maxilla: β = -0.91, p < 0.001; mandible: β = -0.60, p = 0.009), and in the maxilla at 6 months (β = -0.66, p = 0.005). Intercanine width increased in both groups, but expansion was consistently smaller with SLBs (β = -1.36 to -1.69 mm; all p < 0.001). In contrast, intermolar width was greater with SLBs throughout follow-up in both arches (maxilla: β = 2.34-2.77 mm; mandible: β = 2.06-2.34 mm; all p < 0.001). Passive extraction space closure decreased significantly over time in both groups, with no significant effect of bracket type. Conclusion:SLBs showed smaller increases in intercanine width, greater intermolar expansion, and faster early alignment. However, passive space closure was similar between groups. Differences were modest and may have limited clinical significance. Trial Registration: Retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT07503314).
Objectives:Curricular integration in dental education is essential for bridging basic sciences into clinical practices. This study aimed to evaluate dental students' perceptions of the current prosthodontic curriculum structure in a Thai undergraduate dental program, regarding horizontal and vertical integration, by applying a mixed-methods approach to examine possible connections among courses. Materials and Methods:A mixed-methods approach was employed. A quantitative questionnaire was distributed to fifth- and sixth-year undergraduate dental students and recent graduates (n = 286), asking them to rate the importance of subjects related to prosthodontics education on a four-level ordinal scale (from nonessential to essential [score 0-3]). Friedman's two-way analysis of variance by ranks was employed, and the differences in mean rank values were utilized to develop an integration framework of subjects. Additionally, focus group interviews were conducted with nine clinical students and seven recent graduates to explore their perspectives on subject integration in detail. Results:The response rate of the online questionnaire was 72.0%, and 16 dental students and recent graduates participated in a focus group interview. The horizontal and vertical integration structure for dental prosthodontics education in undergraduate programs was proposed, with highly essential subjects for vertical integration, including occlusion, dental materials, oral examination, oral anatomy, and general medicine. Moderately essential subjects were included in both vertical and horizontal integrations, particularly other clinical courses. Conclusions:Based on the students' perspectives at a single institution, prosthodontic education appeared to demonstrate stronger vertical integration across different stages of the undergraduate dental curriculum than horizontal integration across disciplines taught within the same stage. Students perceived fewer connections between prosthodontics and other disciplines, suggesting opportunities to strengthen interdisciplinary integration.
Purpose:The aim of our study was to investigate the presence of Fusobacterium nucleatum (FN) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (PG) in oral cancer samples, to possibly reveal their potential contribution to oral cancer. Methods:We examined a total of 48 histological specimens, of which 42 were squamous cell carcinomas, two verrucous carcinomas (VCs), and one adenocarcinoma (AC); two squamous cell papillomas and one verruca vulgaris (VV) served as controls. Samples were immunostained with specific antigens for FN and the enzyme Gingipain R1 representing PG, followed by visual assessment of staining intensity. The results were analyzed by cross tabulation to detect statistical significance between the groups. Results:FN and PG were commonly found simultaneously in tumor samples and more often in tumor and stroma compared to other tissues layers. In the epithelium, Gingipain was expressed more often than FN although often as co-occured. The alveolar ridge had the lowest number of immunonegative samples for FN and Gingipain. Gingipain often showed higher staining intensity. We did not find correlations with patient age, sex, or anatomical tumor localization. Conclusions:Our findings suggest a possible role for FN and PG in the development and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), supporting the hypothesis that periodontal pathogens may contribute to oral carcinogenesis. Co-occurence of FN and PG further points to potential bacterial interactions influencing tumor behavior. Further studies with larger cohorts are warranted to explore these associations. The findings support the potential role of periodontitis as a risk factor for oral cancer.
Background:The effects of simultaneous bilateral chewing are not well understood. Jaw muscle activity, masticatory performance, and salivary production during strictly unilateral, alternate unilateral, and bilateral chewing were investigated. Materials and Methods:Twenty healthy dental students (aged 20-24 years) with complete natural dentition participated in this repeated-measures study. Each participant chewed a standardized piece of raw carrot for 20 chewing cycles using three chewing patterns: strictly unilateral on the preferred side, alternate unilateral with side switching every five cycles, and simultaneous bilateral chewing. Masseter and anterior temporalis muscle activity was recorded using surface electromyography. Masticatory performance was assessed by image analysis of the total area of chewed particles, and salivary volume and flow rate were measured gravimetrically. Repeated-measures ANOVA or Friedman tests were used to compare differences among the three chewing patterns. Results:Masticatory performance and the masseter asymmetry index (AI) did not differ significantly among chewing patterns. However, the anterior temporalis AI was significantly lower, chewing duration was significantly longer, and subsequently, salivary volume was significantly higher during alternate unilateral and simultaneous bilateral chewing compared with strictly unilateral. Conclusion:Alternate unilateral and simultaneous bilateral chewing promote more symmetrical jaw muscle activity and prolong chewing time without compromising masticatory performance, suggesting that these patterns may serve as alternative chewing strategies for individuals with strictly unilateral chewing habits.
Objective:To evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of Artemisia herba-alba extract and white vinegar as natural disinfectants against Staphylococcus aureus on computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)-milled and heat-polymerized denture base resins. Materials and Methods:Sixty acrylic resin blocks were prepared and divided into two main groups (n = 30 each): CAD/CAM-milled and heat-polymerized acrylic resin. The blocks were contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus isolated from a patient with denture-related stomatitis and immersed for 60 min in one of three solutions: Artemisia herba-alba extract, white vinegar, or distilled water (negative control). Antibacterial efficacy was assessed by quantifying colony forming units (CFUs) using the viable count method. Results:A Kruskal-Wallis test revealed that both Artemisia herba-alba extract and white vinegar significantly lowered CFU counts relative to the control (p < 0.05) across both material groups. Notably, the Artemisia herba-alba extract exhibited superior antibacterial efficacy compared to white vinegar, yielding log reductions of 4.11 and 3.42 in heat-polymerized and CAD/CAM acrylic specimens, respectively. In contrast, white vinegar produced more modest log reductions of 1.81 and 1.20, respectively. Under the studied conditions, heat-polymerized acrylic consistently demonstrated slightly higher bacterial reduction than CAD/CAM acrylic. Conclusion:Both Artemisia herba-alba extract and white vinegar demonstrated antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus on removable denture base materials, with the extract demonstrating superior potency. While heat-polymerized acrylic showed slightly higher bacterial reduction than CAD/CAM acrylic, both material types responded positively to the tested disinfecting agents. Significance:This study demonstrates that Artemisia herba-alba extract and white vinegar are effective natural disinfectants against Staphylococcus aureus associated with denture materials. It supports their use as low-cost natural alternatives for managing denture stomatitis and improving denture hygiene. Alternatively, it highlights their potential as low-cost natural alternatives for improving denture hygiene and warrants further investigation regarding clinical applicability and long-term safety.
Background:Establishing a durable bond to high-strength dental ceramics, especially zirconia (Zir), is a clinical challenge. This is due to the material's chemical inertness and its resistance to conventional etching methods. Zir lacks silica, making it unresponsive to traditional hydrofluoric acid (HF) treatments effective for glass ceramics like lithium disilicate (LiDi). This study assesses the efficacy of a novel multiacid etchant in modifying the surface roughness of LiDi and 5 mol% yttria-stabilized Zir (5Y-TZP), comparing its performance against three commercial HF-based etchants. Methods:Four etchants were tested: Zircos-E (EDOS [ZiE]), 9.5% porcelain etchant (Bisco [BIS]), 9% porcelain etch (Ultradent [ULT]), and IPS Ceramic Etching Gel (Ivoclar [IPS]). Each was applied for 20 s, 1 min, and 30 min to LiDi (Amber Mill) and 5Y Zir (IPS e.max ZirCAD Prime MT) specimens (n = 10 per group). Surface roughness (Ra) was measured with a profilometer. Data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's honestly significant difference (HSD) test (α = 0.05). Results:On 5Y Zir, Zircos-E produced significantly higher surface roughness than all other etchants, reaching 0.378 µm at 30 min (p < 0.001), indicating a greater ability to modify the Zir surface topography under the conditions evaluated in this study. On LiDi, it also resulted in the highest roughness (0.785 µm) but with signs of excessive etching and surface degradation. In contrast, the HF-based etchants produced more controlled and uniform roughening on LiDi, without overetching. Conclusions:The novel multiacid etchant is highly effective for treating 5Y Zir, creating a favorable microretentive surface for bonding. However, its aggressive action makes it unsuitable for LiDi, where overetching can compromise structural integrity. Selection of etching agents should be material-specific to optimize clinical outcomes while preserving ceramic quality.
Background:The oral ecosystem harbors multiple microorganisms, including Streptococcus oralis (S. oralis), which contributes to biofilm formation and microbial virulence. To eliminate oral biofilms, mechanical intervention is combined with antimicrobial agents such as chlorhexidine, but these have limited effects. Such intervention could benefit natural antimicrobial compounds, including cannabidiol (CBD). Aim:This study aims to evaluate the effect of CBD on reducing S. oralis growth and decreasing its biofilm-forming capacity, as well as its interaction with human gingival epithelial cells, to explore its potential application as an oral antimicrobial agent. Methodology:S. oralis was cultured in the presence of different concentrations of CBD. Bacterial growth was evaluated at different time points postexposure to CBD. Bacterial biofilm formation was investigated after 3 days of exposure to CBD using histological and quantitative analyses. The interaction between CBD and gingival epithelial cells was assessed using cell morphology, cell adhesion, and cell viability/proliferation assays. Results:CBD inhibited planktonic growth of S. oralis in a concentration-dependent manner with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 6.25 μg/mL and a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 25 μg/mL. CBD also significantly (p < 0.01) decreased S. oralis biofilm by disrupting its architecture. The effect on the bacterial growth and its capacity to form biofilms was observed even with a low concentration (3.12 μg/mL) of CBD. Given that antimicrobial molecules should be effective against biofilm-associated bacteria while maintaining compatibility with host tissues, this study showed that concentrations (3.12, 6.25, and 12.5 μg/mL) of CBD we tested have anti-S. oralis effect maintained human gingival epithelial cell viability. Conclusion:CBD exhibited a significant antimicrobial effect against S. oralis. Although the bactericidal concentration was higher than the range tested in gingival epithelial cells, low and intermediate CBD concentrations inhibited S. oralis growth and biofilm formation while maintaining cell viability after 24 h of exposure. These findings provide preliminary evidence supporting further investigation of the antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of CBD in oral health contexts.
