ABSTRACT Introduction: Orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning relies on precise diagnostic records, including facial imaging. While two-dimensional (2D) photography is widely used, it cannot fully represent three-dimensional (3D) facial structures. Recent advances in 3D imaging, including LiDAR-based scanning and single-camera photogrammetry (SCP), offer improved accuracy. Objectives: This study evaluates these cost-effective 3D scanning methods in facial soft tissue assessment, by comparing measurements from SCP and LiDAR-based mobile apps, with manual method measurements as gold standard. Methods: Thirty-six patients (21 females, 15 males) aged 15-25 years requiring orthodontic treatment participated. Scanning was conducted using SCP and LiDAR technology, while manual measurements used digital calipers. Statistical analysis evaluated accuracy, precision, and reliability. Results: Both SCP and LiDAR-based scanning techniques show clinically acceptable accuracy in facial soft tissue analysis. LiDAR-based scanning demonstrates better depth perception than SCP, though both methods are viable alternatives to conventional imaging. Conclusion: The study highlights smartphone-based 3D facial scanning as viable alternatives to traditional imaging in Orthodontics. While SCP and LiDAR scanning show comparable accuracy, further research is needed. The findings support implementing affordable 3D scanning technologies in orthodontic diagnostic protocols.
ABSTRACT Introduction: Deleterious oral habits are common during childhood and, when persistent, may influence craniofacial growth and occlusal development. Among the malocclusions associated with oral habits, anterior open bite (AOB) and posterior crossbite (PCB) are particularly noteworthy. Objective: This article presents a conceptual and clinical overview of oral habits and their impact on occlusal development, with emphasis on early diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Orthodontic (MIO) management. Results: The literature describes associations between non-nutritive sucking, tongue interposition, mouth breathing, and occlusal alterations, especially dentoalveolar AOB and transverse maxillary deficiency. The reported interceptive approaches focus on habit interruption, combined with simple orthodontic appliances and interdisciplinary management. Conclusions: An interdisciplinary orthodontic approach to the management of oral habit-related malocclusions improves functional balance and quality of life during childhood, while reducing the complexity of comprehensive treatment. These principles represent the primary purpose of the “Orange July” campaign and MIO, which emphasizes timely preventive and interceptive approaches during childhood.
ABSTRACT Introduction: Clinicians often face the decision of recommending Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) or a Mandibular Advancement Appliance (MAA) for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a fully digital workflow MAA and compare its outcomes with CPAP therapy. Methods: Twenty adults with OSA confirmed by Type I polysomnography (AHI < 50 events/hour), non-adherent to CPAP, were enrolled in a crossover clinical study. After MAA titration (50% and 75% of maximum protrusion), participants underwent home sleep testing under three conditions: no treatment, CPAP, and MAA. Outcomes included oxygen desaturation index (ODI), snoring score, oxyhemoglobin saturation (SpO₂), hypoxic burden, and mean heart rate. Treatment-induced changes (Δ = treatment − no treatment) were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (α = 5%). Results: Both therapies significantly reduced ODI and snoring, compared to baseline. Median ODI decreased from 13.55 events/hour (untreated) to 6.05 with MAA and 5.30 with CPAP. No statistically significant differences were found between MAA and CPAP for ΔODI (p = 0.401), snoring (p = 0.103), hypoxic burden (p = 0.165), or heart rate (p = 0.824). A significant difference in SpO₂ was observed (p = 0.003), favoring CPAP; however, the difference was small. Conclusions: The fully digital MAA was effective in reducing oxygen desaturation, snoring, and hypoxic burden, showing no clinically meaningful difference compared with CPAP, supporting its use as a viable therapeutic alternative for OSA.
ABSTRACT Introduction: In Brazil, the population’s easy access to the judicial system exposes healthcare professionals, including orthodontists, to the risk of becoming involved in legal disputes for which they are often inadequately prepared. Objective: In this context, the aim of this study was to assess the legal vulnerability of professionals involved in orthodontic practice and to identify factors associated with professional practice. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted using a previously validated questionnaire administered to 247 professionals engaged in orthodontic practice. Participants were classified into low, moderate, and high levels of legal vulnerability. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson’s chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. Results: The results indicated greater vulnerability among non-specialists, professionals with fewer years since graduation and shorter clinical experience, as well as among those who graduated from private institutions (p < 0.001). In addition, 72.8% of participants believed that patients’ economic status may influence the occurrence of legal claims, and 53.5% reported lacking legal guidance for drafting contracts in their professional practice. Conclusion: The findings suggest the presence of vulnerabilities related to legal knowledge and professional practices, particularly among less experienced professionals and non-specialists in Orthodontics.
ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate publications on mandibular advancement devices through bibliometric and altmetric analysis. Methods: A search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoS-CC) initially in August 2024, with an update in December 2025, including all articles on mandibular advancement devices, with no restrictions on language or publication date. Editorials, abstracts, and conference papers were excluded. Two independent reviewers selected the studies and extracted data on citations, year, journal, study design, type of device, study objective, geographic origin, authors, and keywords. Altmetric analysis was performed using Dimensions. Spearman’s correlation tested associations between impact factor, year, and citations, and bibliometric networks were created with VOSviewer. Results: A total of 446 articles were published between 1979-2025. The most cited article received 352 citations, and the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics published the largest number of studies (n = 174). Clinical trials were the most frequent design (n = 175), mainly addressing skeletal, dental, facial, and esthetic changes (n = 175). The Herbst appliance was the most investigated (n = 129). Germany (n = 52) and Europe (n = 236) led the publications, with Giessen University as the most productive institution (n = 37). The most prolific author was Pancherz H (n = 31). Altmetric analysis revealed relevant mentions on Mendeley and Facebook. Conclusion: Europe concentrated the largest scientific output on mandibular advancement devices, particularly the Herbst appliance, in studies focused on skeletal, dental, facial, and esthetic changes.
