Zusammenfassung Mit dem steigenden Anteil erwachsener kieferorthopädischer Patient*innen wird auch eine Zunahme interventionsbedürftiger Behandlungsrezidive beobachtet. Häufige Gründe sind mangelhafte Therapieadhärenz, unvollständig korrigierte Angulationen oder ungünstige Wachstumsverläufe, die trotz formal erfolgreicher Ersttherapie eine Reinterventionen fordern. Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es, minimalinvasive kieferorthopädische Korrekturmöglichkeiten bei ästhetisch relevanten Rezidiven im Frontzahnbereich erwachsener Patient*innen darzustellen und Grenzen auszuarbeiten. Anhand dreier klinischer Fallbeispiele werden unterschiedliche Rezidivformen vorgestellt: (a) offene gingivale Embrasuren („black triangles“), (b) isolierte Frontzahn-Torque-Fehlstellungen des Oberkiefers, (c) isolierte Frontzahn-Torque-Fehlstellungen des Unterkiefers. Die Korrekturen erfolgten durch: alignerbasierte Teilbehandlung mit Power Ridges und Anchorage Attachments sowie reduzierter Multibracket-Teilmechaniken. Die Behandlungsplanung basierte auf einer ätiologischen Analyse unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der individuellen Kephalometrie, sowie Kontaktpunktlage, Zahnangulation und parodontaler Ausgangssituation. In allen Fällen konnte eine ästhetische Verbesserung mit begrenztem apparativem Aufwand und kurzer Behandlungsdauer erzielt werden. Die gezielte interproximale Schmelzreduktion mit koronaler Kontaktpunktverlagerung erwies sich als besonders effektiv zur Beseitigung offener gingivaler Embrasuren. Rotations- und Torque-Fehlstellungen ließen sich durch lokal begrenzte, biomechanisch kontrollierte Maßnahmen verbessern, ohne parodontale Komplikationen zu verursachen. Minimalinvasive kieferorthopädische Korrekturen stellen bei sorgfältiger Indikationsstellung eine effektive und patientenorientierte Behandlungsoption für ästhetisch motivierte Rezidive im Frontzahnbereich erwachsener Patient*innen dar. Sie ergänzen das therapeutische Spektrum sinnvoll, ersetzen jedoch keine umfassende kieferorthopädische Retherapie bei komplexen Fehlstellungen.
PURPOSE:Rehabilitation of compromised masticatory function is a primary goal in orthodontics. Therefore, its assessment is essential for monitoring and validating treatment. However, current methods typically focus on a single feature, such as color homogeneity or texture of the test bolus, thereby, limiting their applicability. This study introduces a new open-source software that facilitates easier comparison of mixing ability metrics and evaluates the feasibility of two novel methods that combine color homogeneity, saturation, brightness, and texture. METHODS:Bicolor gum samples were chewed 10, 20, and 30 times by 15 participants with class I normocclusion. The boluses were processed using a standardized protocol and photographed under controlled conditions. The state-of-the-art standard deviation of Hue (SDHue) was compared with two new metrics: the Hue-Saturation-Value (HSV) metric, which combines hue, saturation, and brightness, and the Patch Expected Value (PEV) metric, which associates hue and texture. Their ability to discriminate between chewing trials and their intercorrelations were assessed. RESULTS:All three metrics significantly discriminated between the three chewing conditions. The three metrics were correlated with one another across the entire dataset, with the lowest correlation between SDHue and HSV (r = 0.70). SDHue and PEV showed good to strong correlations across the 10×, 20×, and 30× cycle conditions (r = 0.62, 0.92, and 0.76, respectively). CONCLUSION:This study presents a reproducible methodology and the corresponding software for the objective assessment of masticatory performance. The combination of texture and color homogeneity appears feasible and promising, though further testing with finer mixing resolutions is needed.
Successful orthognathic therapies are characterised by a physiologically configured occlusion whose long-term clinical stability is mainly assessed through occlusal parameters. In the present study, long-term treatment outcomes were assessed based on occlusal changes after 5 years using digital occlusion and masticatory efficiency analysis. This study examined 33 adult patients after treatment of skeletal class II (n = 18; 12 women, median age 28.15 years; interquartile range [IQR] = 15.10) and class III malformations (n = 15; 7 women, median age 23.90 years; IQR = 4.80) 9 months (T1) and 5 years (T2) postorthognathic therapy. A total of 20 patients with neutral skeletal relation (10 women; median age 30.50 years; IQR = 7.50) served as a control group. Skeletal classification was based on sagittal jaw configuration (Wits) and habitual intercuspation was recorded using the T‑Scan Novus® (Tekscan Inc., South Boston, MA, USA) for digital occlusion analysis with the following variables: total tooth contact (TTC), occlusion time (TOC), occlusion asymmetry (OAS), anterior and posterior antagonism (ATC and PTC). In addition, masticatory performance was assessed using a standardized two-colour chewing gum bolus analysis. Five years after surgery (T2), none of the occlusal parameters differed significantly between the groups, indicating functional approximation to the control group. Longitudinal analysis revealed significant improvements within both surgical groups (T1 to T2). In class II patients, TTC, ATC and PTC increased, while TOC decreased significantly. Class III patients also showed significant increases in TTC, ATC and PTC with TOC and OAS remaining unchanged. Overall, both treatment groups demonstrated substantial recovery and long-term stabilization of occlusal function. Bolus homogeneity analysis showed no significant difference between control and treatment patients 5 years after surgery. The 5‑year observation of orthognathic treatment for sagittal jaw malformations showed significant improvements in occlusal parameters. Both masticatory efficiency and occlusal parameters measured at 5 years postoperatively did not differ significantly from the control group, indicating that the functional improvements achieved by the therapy were stable in the long term.
AIM:This study examines the impact of a software-supported knowledge management system on clinical workflows and dental education compared to a conventional file-based approach, focusing on user experience, efficiency, and the facilitation of student learning. METHODS:Twenty participants (10 specialists, 10 students) performed 10 standardized clinical information retrieval tasks using a conventional folder system and a software-supported standard operating procedure (SOP) platform. Processing time was recorded, and usability was assessed with the validated User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ). Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's alpha (α) and Guttman's lambda-2 (λ2). Statistical evaluation included two-way ANOVA and benchmarking against industry standards. RESULTS:The software-supported system reduced processing time significantly (specialists: 1.7-0.3 min, students: 1.8-0.7 min; p < 0.001) and gained markedly higher user experience scores across all UEQ dimensions (p < 0.001). Particularly strong gains were observed in efficiency, perspicuity, and dependability, while high internal consistency validated the reliability of the user feedback. CONCLUSION:Software-supported knowledge management systems improved efficiency and user experience, providing structured access to validated SOPs that may support learning and more consistent clinical practice. Further studies are needed to confirm the effects on education and patient care.
Abstract Background This in-vitro study aimed to evaluate and compare the biomechanical force profiles of thermoformed and direct-printed aligners with different gingival trimlines during facial and palatal translation of a maxillary central incisor. Methods A 3D-printed model with a mounted central incisor was used to simulate 0.25 mm of bodily movement. Forces were recorded in three axes (Fx, Fy, Fz) using a multi-axis force sensor. Three aligner types (thermoformed with straight trimline: TFAS, and direct-printed with either straight: DPAS or garlanded trimline: DPAG) were tested (n = 10 each). Vertical, transverse, and sagittal force components and their decrease were analyzed. Forces were recorded over 60 min to characterize initial force delivery and early stress relaxation under standardized in vitro conditions. Results Thermoformed aligners exhibited the highest sagittal forces during facial movement (Fx − 0.70 N), while DPAG demonstrated significantly lower forces (Fx − 0.25 N; p < .001). During palatal translation, DPAS reached peak forces of 0.57 N, whereas DPAG showed lower, more controlled forces (p < .001). Vertical forces (Fz) were significantly higher in TFAS (− 0.10 N), while DPA remained near zero or slightly extrusive (p < .001). Conclusions In this in vitro model, DPA, particularly DPAG, showed lower sagittal force values and smaller vertical force components. In the first 60 min, DPA showed a pronounced early force decrease. Longer observation periods are required to describe force behavior beyond the initial seating phase.
Rehabilitation of compromised masticatory function is a primary goal in orthodontics. Therefore, its assessment is essential for monitoring and validating treatment. However, current methods typically focus on a single feature, such as color homogeneity or texture of the test bolus, thereby, limiting their applicability. This study introduces a new open-source software that facilitates easier comparison of mixing ability metrics and evaluates the feasibility of two novel methods that combine color homogeneity, saturation, brightness, and texture. Bicolor gum samples were chewed 10, 20, and 30 times by 15 participants with class I normocclusion. The boluses were processed using a standardized protocol and photographed under controlled conditions. The state-of-the-art standard deviation of Hue (SDHue) was compared with two new metrics: the Hue–Saturation–Value (HSV) metric, which combines hue, saturation, and brightness, and the Patch Expected Value (PEV) metric, which associates hue and texture. Their ability to discriminate between chewing trials and their intercorrelations were assessed. All three metrics significantly discriminated between the three chewing conditions. The three metrics were correlated with one another across the entire dataset, with the lowest correlation between SDHue and HSV (r = 0.70). SDHue and PEV showed good to strong correlations across the 10×, 20×, and 30× cycle conditions (r = 0.62, 0.92, and 0.76, respectively). This study presents a reproducible methodology and the corresponding software for the objective assessment of masticatory performance. The combination of texture and color homogeneity appears feasible and promising, though further testing with finer mixing resolutions is needed.
OBJECTIVES:Successful orthognathic therapies are characterised by a physiologically configured occlusion whose long-term clinical stability is mainly assessed through occlusal parameters. In the present study, long-term treatment outcomes were assessed based on occlusal changes after 5 years using digital occlusion and masticatory efficiency analysis. METHODS:This study examined 33 adult patients after treatment of skeletal class II (n = 18; 12 women, median age 28.15 years; interquartile range [IQR] = 15.10) and class III malformations (n = 15; 7 women, median age 23.90 years; IQR = 4.80) 9 months (T1) and 5 years (T2) postorthognathic therapy. A total of 20 patients with neutral skeletal relation (10 women; median age 30.50 years; IQR = 7.50) served as a control group. Skeletal classification was based on sagittal jaw configuration (Wits) and habitual intercuspation was recorded using the T‑Scan Novus® (Tekscan Inc., South Boston, MA, USA) for digital occlusion analysis with the following variables: total tooth contact (TTC), occlusion time (TOC), occlusion asymmetry (OAS), anterior and posterior antagonism (ATC and PTC). In addition, masticatory performance was assessed using a standardized two-colour chewing gum bolus analysis. RESULTS:Five years after surgery (T2), none of the occlusal parameters differed significantly between the groups, indicating functional approximation to the control group. Longitudinal analysis revealed significant improvements within both surgical groups (T1 to T2). In class II patients, TTC, ATC and PTC increased, while TOC decreased significantly. Class III patients also showed significant increases in TTC, ATC and PTC with TOC and OAS remaining unchanged. Overall, both treatment groups demonstrated substantial recovery and long-term stabilization of occlusal function. Bolus homogeneity analysis showed no significant difference between control and treatment patients 5 years after surgery. CONCLUSION:The 5‑year observation of orthognathic treatment for sagittal jaw malformations showed significant improvements in occlusal parameters. Both masticatory efficiency and occlusal parameters measured at 5 years postoperatively did not differ significantly from the control group, indicating that the functional improvements achieved by the therapy were stable in the long term.
Abstract Background The present study was conducted to quantify and compare the geometric accuracy and force application of thermoformed aligners (TFA) and direct-printed aligners (DPA) during mesial and distal rotation of a central upper incisor with a defined activation of 2°. Methodology A 3D-printed model with a mounted central incisor was used to simulate 2° of rotational movement. Forces were recorded in three axes (Fx, Fy, Fz) over 60 minutes using a multi-axis force sensor. Three aligner types (thermoformed with straight trimline: TFAS, direct printed with straight trimline: DPAS, direct printed aligner with garlanded trimline: DPAG) were tested (n = 10 each). Vertical, transverse, and sagittal force components and their decrease were analyzed, and thickness measurements were taken. Results Significant differences in resulting forces were observed between TFA, DPAS, and DPAG during both mesial and distal rotation. TFA generated significantly higher sagittal forces during mesial rotation (1.40 (0.30) N) compared to DPAS (-0.04 (0.05) N) and DPAG (0.11 (0.03) N; p < 0.001). Similar findings were observed for distal rotation (TFA 0.86 (0.16) N; DPAS -0.07 (0.06) N; DPAG 0.10 (0.09) N; p < 0.001). Transverse forces were generally lower, with only selected intergroup differences reaching significance. Time-resolved analysis revealed a pronounced initial force peak followed by continuous decay for TFA, while both DPA designs showed a gradual force increase with plateau formation. TFA showed the most pronounced material loss, whereas directly printed aligners most closely matched the planned thickness. In mesial rotation, significant group differences were found for facial (TFA: 0.42 (0.01) mm; DPAS: 0.71 (0.15) mm; DPAG: 0.63 (0.06) mm), incisal (0.60 (0.02) mm vs. 0.76 (0.11) mm vs. 0.65 (0.06) mm) and palatal surfaces (0.63 (0.01) mm vs. 0.94 (0.17) mm vs. 0.80 (0.06) mm; all p < 0.001). A comparable thickness pattern was observed for distal rotation. Conclusion The results highlight the improved geometric accuracy and underscore the potential of 3D-printed aligners to improve force control and warrant further clinical investigation.
Background With the increasing proportion of adult orthodontic patients, a growing number of individuals seek consultation after completion of orthodontic treatment due to persistent or recurrent esthetic concerns in the anterior tooth segment. These concerns are frequently related to treatment-associated relapses or incomplete three-dimensional correction, despite an otherwise successful initial therapy. The aim of this article is to present and biomechanically evaluate minimally invasive orthodontic correction strategies for esthetically relevant anterior segment relapses in adult patients. Materials Three clinical cases illustrating different types of anterior segment relapse are presented: (a) open gingival embrasures ("black triangles"), (b) isolated torque discrepancies of upper anterior teeth, and (c) isolated torque discrepancies of lower anterior teeth. Corrections were performed using aligner-based partial treatment with power ridges and attachments and reduced multibracket segmental mechanics. Treatment planning was based on an etiological analysis with particular emphasis on contact point position, root angulation, and periodontal conditions. Results In all cases, substantial esthetic improvement was achieved with limited appliance design and short treatment duration. Interproximal enamel reduction combined with coronal relocation and extension of the interproximal contact area proved particularly effective for the elimination of open gingival embrasures. Rotational and torque discrepancies were successfully corrected using localized, biomechanically controlled approaches without inducing periodontal complications. Conclusions Minimally invasive orthodontic corrections represent an effective and patient-oriented treatment option for esthetically motivated anterior segment relapses in adult patients when carefully indicated. These approaches constitute a valuable adjunct to the orthodontic treatment spectrum but do not replace comprehensive retreatment in cases of complex malocclusion.
Orthodontic treatment in patients with advanced periodontitis is often considered high-risk due to impaired periodontal anchorage and increased susceptibility to treatment-related damage. This report presents a 60-year-old woman with stage IV periodontitis, upper anterior protrusion (overjet 7.5 mm), crowding, and advanced vertical bone loss. Treatment with a maxillary fixed appliance and skeletal anchorage over 9 months enabled intrusion and retraction of the anterior teeth, closure of a lateral diastema, and reduction of overjet, achieving functional and aesthetic improvement without compromising periodontal support. Orthodontic treatment is achievable and effective in patients in later adulthood with advanced periodontitis. Using only small, segmented appliances with a controlled force vector guided by skeletal anchorage allows controlled and secure anterior tooth movement. Considering the incisor/lip interaction according to the FAOP enables reliable tooth movements, improving function, aesthetics, and long-term tooth preservation.
Abstract Background This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate occlusal characteristics and masticatory performance in patients with skeletal Class II and Class III malocclusions. Both digital occlusal analysis and standardized bolus analysis were employed to assess functional outcomes in non-surgically treated, surgically treated, and control patients. Methods A total of 133 orthognathic patients (71 female; median age 29.8 years) and 20 controls (9 female; median age 30.0 years) were included. Skeletal malocclusions were categorized as compensated, decompensated, and a separate surgically treated cohort assessed at 5-year postoperative follow-up. Digital occlusal parameters (total tooth contact (TTC), time of occlusion (TOC), occlusal asymmetry (OAS), anterior and posterior tooth contact (ATC, PTC)) were recorded and masticatory performance was assessed using a standardized two-color bolus analysis. Results Non-surgically treated Class II and Class III patients showed significantly reduced TTC, ATC, PTC, and prolonged TOC as well as lower bolus mixing scores compared with controls (p < 0.05). Surgically treated patients at 5-year follow-up exhibited occlusal parameters and bolus mixing scores comparable to controls, indicating normalization of occlusal parameters and masticatory efficiency. Conclusion Skeletal Class II and Class III malocclusions are associated with impaired occlusal function and reduced masticatory efficiency. Orthognathic therapy effectively restores occlusal parameters as well as functional chewing ability in the long term. Combining digital occlusal analysis with bolus analysis provides a comprehensive and objective evaluation of masticatory rehabilitation in orthognathic patients. Trial registration DRKS00025729
AIM:The aim of this study was to compare dental students' subjective user experience of digital versus conventional axiography following structured teaching interventions, using the User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ). METHODS:A total of 47 dental students (26.37 ± 3.81 years; 33 female) participated in a standardized seminar consisting of theoretical instruction and hands-on training in digital axiography using the ZEBRIS system. After completion of the course, the students evaluated both methods using the validated German version of the UEQ, covering six user experience scales. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, as well as Guttman's lambda-2. Differences between digital and conventional axiography were analyzed using Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank tests. RESULTS:Digital axiography received higher mean UEQ scores across all scales, with particularly positive ratings in the hedonic dimensions of Stimulation and Novelty. These differences were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Pragmatic dimensions (Perspicuity, Efficiency, and Dependability) showed no significant differences between the two methods. CONCLUSION:Digital axiography was perceived more positively by dental students than conventional axiography regarding the hedonic user experience. While both methods demonstrated comparable pragmatic qualities, the digital workflow offered added motivational value. These findings support the integration of digital axiography as an additional component alongside conventional techniques in dental education to enhance not only the learning experience but also preparedness for contemporary clinical practice.
Die kieferorthopädische Diagnostik bildet die Grundlage einer erfolgreichen Behandlung und erfolgt traditionell durch eine Kombination aus klinischer Untersuchung und bildgebenden Verfahren. Während zweidimensionale Bildgebungsverfahren wie Panoramaschichtaufnahmen und Fernröntgenseitenbilder aufgrund ihrer schnellen Verfügbarkeit und geringen Strahlenbelastung weiterhin den diagnostischen Standard darstellen, gewinnen dreidimensionale und vierdimensionale Bildgebungsverfahren zunehmend an Bedeutung. Insbesondere bei komplexeren Fällen mit ausgeprägten skelettalen Dysgnathien, kann der Einsatz von digitaler Volumentomografie oder Stereophotogrammetrie die Beurteilung der skelettalen, dentalen und fazialen Strukturen erleichtern. Eine Integration funktioneller Aspekte durch die Erfassung der Bewegungsdynamik wird durch Echtzeit-Magnetresonanztomografie und Videostereophotogrammetrie möglich. Sie stellen eine vielversprechende Ergänzung zur klassischen Diagnostik dar.
ABSTRACT Aim This prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the subjective perception of digital and conventional orthodontic fabrication methods among dental students. The educational effectiveness of conventional and digital approaches was assessed using a novel approach that included user experience surveys and a quantitative evaluation of the teaching units. Methods A total of 64 pre‐graduated dental students from two consecutive semesters independently fabricated a conventionally and a digitally manufactured orthodontic appliance. Subjective evaluations were collected about the two different fabrication methods using standardized User Experience Questionnaires (UEQ). Six dimensions were assessed: attractiveness, perspicuity, efficiency, dependability, stimulation, and novelty. The corresponding teaching unit (CAD/CAM seminar) was evaluated using a Likert‐based questionnaire. The statistical analysis included Wilcoxon tests for paired samples and reliability assessments (Cronbach's alpha, Guttman's lambda‐2). Results The digital workflow received higher ratings in all UEQ dimensions, particularly for novelty ( M = 1.87 vs. −1.08, p < 0.0001). Attractiveness of digital methods was perceived positively compared to the conventional approach ( M = 1.59 / M = −0.21). Pragmatic quality (perspicuity, efficiency, and dependability) was also rated more favorably for the digital approach ( M = 0.88 / 0.12). The associated CAD/CAM seminar received an overall positive evaluation. Participants reported learning progress and expressed interest in continuing the course. Conclusion Digital orthodontic fabrication methods are perceived more positively than conventional techniques by dental students, highlighting the value of integrating digital workflows into dental education.
Orthodontic diagnostics is the foundation of successful treatment and usually relies on a combination of clinical examination and imaging procedures. While two-dimensional imaging techniques such as panoramic radiographs and lateral cephalograms are still the diagnostic standard due to their rapid availability and low radiation exposure, three-dimensional and four-dimensional imaging techniques are on the rise. Particularly complex cases with pronounced skeletal malocclusion might benefit from the use of conebeam computed tomography or stereophotogrammetry. Real-time magnetic resonance imaging and video stereophotogrammetry enable us to integrate functional aspects by recording movement dynamics. These technologies provide a promising addition to conventional diagnostics.
Teleorthodontics may offer benefits to both patients and providers in terms of accessibility, efficiency, and quality of care. Therefore, there is an increasing need for accurate, noninvasive monitoring technologies. The present study evaluated the accuracy of a mobile device for four-dimensional imaging in capturing dynamic facial movements and its potential application in orthodontic patients with severe dentofacial deformities. In this prospective clinical study, facial movements of 30 adult orthodontic patients (dentofacial deformity: n = 20, controls: n = 10) were captured to evaluate the accuracy of a 4D mobile camera system. Imaging was conducted via Intel RealSense D415 in three settings: (1) with high-accuracy preset, (2) with medium-density presets, and (3) with additional tracking software. The stationary system Canfield Vectra H5 served as the gold standard. Each patient was asked to perform three movements: maximum smiling, lip pursing, and cheek puffing. Accuracy was assessed by the root mean square (RMS). In total, 270 4D sequences were analyzed. Overall, the RMS between the 4D sequences and the gold standard were smaller than 1 mm (p < .001). The (a) high-accuracy setting results in a significantly lower RMS than does the (b) medium-density setting (p < .001). Setting (c) resulted in higher RMS values for lip pursing and cheek puffing than setting (a) or (b). Among the movements, smiling presented the greatest RMS, whereas lip pursing and cheek puffing presented similarly small differences. Class-wise comparisons did not reveal evidence of differences. The present study demonstrated that the portable 4D camera system achieved sub-millimeter accuracy in patients with dentofacial deformities. Accuracy was influenced by the recording preset, whereas additional software did not improve performance. Within the limits of this pilot study, the device showed adequate recording quality to support feasibility in teleorthodontic applications for capturing facial dynamics. Future research should evaluate its usability, cost-effectiveness, and potential integration with artificial intelligence to extend clinical applications.
This cohort study aimed to evaluate the relationship between sella turcica (ST) morphology and dentofacial anomalies three-dimensionally (3D). Cone beam computed tomograms (CBCTs) and computed tomography scans (CTs) of 90 adults (46 women; age 28.1 ± 11.3 years) were analyzed. Dentofacial anomalies were evaluated (1) sagittally regarding skeletal classes (Wits appraisal), (2) vertically regarding the inclination of the jaws (maxillomandibular plane angle), and (3) transversally regarding skeletal symmetry (menton deviation from midsagittal plane). Sella morphology was assessed (a) linearly by ST-length, -width, -height, -diameter, and position to nasofrontal suture (CB); and (b) volumetrically by total, anterior, and posterior volume (Vol_T, Vol-A, Vol_P). Five porcine skulls were scanned by CBCT, CT, and micro-CT for method validation. CBCT and CT both underestimated the ST volume compared to the volume measured with micro-CT. ST morphology differed significantly between the skeletal classes. Individuals with skeletal class I showed higher ST length than participants with skeletal class II (p = .024). Vol_T and Vol_A were higher in class II than in class III (p = .047; p = .019). Vol_A correlated with the Wits appraisal (r = .337, p < .001). Vertical and transversal jaw relation showed no correlation with ST variables. ST-width and CB were significantly higher in men than women (p = .004; p < .001). 3D-diagnostics of ST morphology enabled conclusions about underlying dentofacial anomalies. Vol_A seemed to be a relevant marker based on its correlation and class-specific volumes. Future research could help to identify this as prognostic factor of developing anomalies.
Objectives Occupational hand eczema is a common inflammatory skin condition among healthcare professionals. Orthodontists are frequently exposed to a variety of irritating and allergenic substances, and therefore they belong to a predisposed group to develop hand eczema. However, current data on the prevalence and predisposing factors among orthodontists to provide adequate prophylaxis are lacking. Methods An anonymous online survey was conducted in Germany between January and February 2023 and distributed to 2402 orthodontists. The questionnaire addressed general information on current skin status, as well as occupational skin exposure and skin care. Results A total of 209 orthodontists responded to the survey. Seventy-four percent reported experiencing hand eczema-specific symptoms within the last 12 months, with 24% describing moderate and 10% describing severe symptoms. The average daily glove wearing time was stated to be 62h. The most frequently reported triggers at work were frequent hand washing (62.7%) and hand disinfection (59.1%). Among all the respondents, 22.6% stated not using either barrier cream or moisturizer. Conclusions This study showed a high prevalence of hand eczema symptoms among orthodontists, which is probably due to frequent disinfection, hand washing, and contact with allergens such as acrylates. In this professional group especially, against a background of future increasing acrylate and epoxy resin exposures due to in-office three-dimensional printing processes, timely education and skin protection could decisively counteract the pathogenesis of hand eczema.
Aligned teeth commonly convey a positive impression to other people. This study aimed to examine the effect of malocclusion on adult facial perceptions using self-reported and quantitative measures. Facial photographs of 15 adult patients (11 women; 47.73 years, standard deviation [SD] = 8.86; 12 periodontally compromised) with malocclusion were acquired before (MT0) and after treatment (MT1). The control group (CG) comprised 15 age-matched adults (12 women; 42.93 years, SD = 7.50) without malocclusion. In all, 37 laypersons (18 women; 41.06 years) viewed all pictures. Self-report: Participants rated each face regarding dental condition, smile valence, and friendliness. Eye-tracking: Visual attention was analyzed by entry time and fixation time on predefined face areas. MT0 pictures received significantly (p < 0.001) more negative ratings regarding dental condition, smile valence, and friendliness. Ratings for MT1 were comparable to those of the control group. Compared with the CG, MT0 faces showed faster first fixations on the mouth (p = 0.005) and had longer fixation durations (36.15
Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Das dentale Trauma stellt weltweit eine der häufigsten Verletzungen dar, wobei die Unfallzahlen mit Zahnverletzungen weiter ansteigen. Während in der Prävention von dentalen Frontzahntraumata die Kieferorthopädie schon eine klare evidenzbasierte und leitlinienkonforme Rolle spielt, wird sie nach bereits stattgefundenen Zahnunfällen als Therapieoption noch häufig unterschätzt. Fallvorstellung Die 12-jährige Patientin stellte sich in der Poliklinik für Kieferorthopädie sechs Wochen nach einem Sturz auf die Frontzähne mit einer palatinalen Luxationsverletzung des Zahnes 11 unter Einbruch der bukkalen Knochenlamelle vor. Diese wurde mittels einer individualisierten Multi-Bracket-Apparatur unter Rehabilitation des Zahnbogens und der Okklusion behandelt. Schlussfolgerung Der Fall konnte unter Anwendung einer individualisierten Biomechanik erfolgreich behandelt werden. Dies hebt hervor, dass die Kieferorthopädie einen wesentlichen Baustein in der interdisziplinären Behandlung nach dentalen Zahntraumata darstellen kann und stets in Erwägung gezogen werden sollte.