Interceptive Approach to Treatment of Impacted Maxillary Canines

Impaction of maxillary canines can be prevented by early intervention in the mixed dentition phase after the correct diagnosis of malocclusion, reducing the complexity of the treatment. This article reports the case of a 10-year-old patient who possessed impacted maxillary canines and, after early extraction of primary canines, had reestablished favorable permanent successors' eruption axis. This 5-year radiographic follow-up study with panoramic radiography shows that this can be used in practice and that an effective control strategy ensures the accuracy in the inclination of the impacted canines. Treatment success is related to early diagnosis and strategic interceptive treatment choice.

Effect of prolonged erosive pH cycling on different restorative materials

This in vitro study evaluated the effect of a prolonged erosive pH cycling on the superficial microhardness change (SMHC) and the erosive wear of different restorative materials. Eighty enamel specimens with prepared cavities of 1.5 x 1.5 mm were randomly divided into eight groups according to the restorative materials used for the fillings (RMGI - resin-modified glass-ionomer, CGI - conventional glass-ionomer, CR- composite resin, A - amalgam) and immersion media used (ERO - erosive medium or SAL - artificial saliva). During 35 days, half of the specimens were immersed in a cola drink (ERO), for 5 min, three times a day, and they remained in SAL between the erosive cycles. The other half of the specimens was immersed in SAL only, for the entire experimental period (control). Data were tested for significant differences by anova and Tukey's tests (P < 0.05). Scanning electron microscopy images were made to illustrate the enamel erosive wear and restorative materials alterations. The mean SMHC (%) and mean erosive wear (mu m) of the materials were: RMGI-ERO (30/0.5); CGI-ERO (37/0.5); CR-ERO (-0.3/0.3); A-ERO (-4/0.3); RMGI-SAL (4/0.4); CGI-SAL (-6/0.4); CR-SAL (-3/0.2) and A-SAL (2/0.4). Scanning electron microscopy images showed pronounced enamel erosive wear on groups submitted to erosive pH cycling when compared with groups maintained in saliva. In conclusion, the prolonged pH cycling promoted significantly higher alterations (SMHC and erosive wear) on the glass-ionomer cements than the CR and amalgam.

Comparison of visual inspection, radiographic examination, laser fluorescence and their combinations on treatment decisions for occlusal surfaces

Purpose: To compare visual inspection (VI), radiographic examination (RX) and the laser fluorescence device DIAGNOdent (L), as well as their combinations in vitro regarding treatment decisions for occlusal surfaces. Methods: 72 extracted human permanent teeth (molars and premolars) were used. Treatment decisions were recorded by three calibrated examiners, and the options available were fissure sealant and conservative restoration. For validation of treatment decisions, the teeth were sectioned and examined in a stereomicroscope. Thereafter, dental slices were scanned and the images were edited to facilitate classification of existing carious lesions. Intra and inter-examiner reproducibility for the determination of treatment plans were calculated using Cohen's kappa test (95%-CI). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and the area under the ROC curve were also calculated. Results: VI and L provided on average the greatest intra- and inter-examiner reproducibility, respectively. Although the combination of diagnostic methods may decrease both intra- and inter examiners reproducibility, combination of VI, L and RX resulted in the greatest sensitivity, being statistically superior to RX and L. There was more inter-examiner agreement for the option of restorative treatment, while the use of sealants as a treatment option yielded the lowest values. Negative predictive values were numerically inferior to positive predictive values, indicating that the examiners preferred not to restore a carious tooth than to proceed operatively in an intact tooth. The combination of the three methods studied showed the best results in determining treatment plans for occlusal surfaces, when compared to the other types of exams. on the other hand, radiographic examination and laser fluorescence were less efficient when used alone.

Smoking and Periodontal Disease: Clinical Evidence for an Association

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

Immediate reimplantation of primary teeth: a histological study in dogs

Reimplantation of primary teeth has been the subject of various clinical and histological studies, but very little is known about the effect of this treatment on primary teeth. The aim of the present study was to histologically evaluate the biological response of dog primary teeth after immediate reimplantation. Twelve dogs were divided into two groups according to postoperative time: 1 week and 3 weeks. Twenty-one upper and lower intermediate incisors were extracted and submitted to endodontic treatment, reimplantation and splinting. The 21 homologous teeth not submitted to treatment served as controls. The animals were killed after the respective experimental periods, and the obtained specimens were processed for histological analysis. Most dogs of the 1-week group exhibited the following alterations: gingival epithelium was inserted in the cemento-enamel junction, with a small number of chronic inflammatory cells being observed in the gingival corium; the periodontal ligament was partially reestablished, with a more expressive chronic inflammatory infiltrate being observed in the apical third; small root resorption was observed on the palatine/lingual side in the apical third. In contrast, in 3-week animals, gingival epithelial insertion was predominantly absent on the buccal side, and a moderate chronic inflammatory infiltrate was present; the periodontal ligament generally showed no bone-cementum reinsertion especially on the palatine/lingual side, with an expressive inflammatory infiltrate in the apical region, and large root resorption was mainly observed on the palatine and lingual sides. In conclusion, reimplantation causes histological alterations in the tooth and its supporting periodontal structures that suggest the impossibility of its maintenance.

pH-cycling models for in vitro evaluation of the efficacy of fluoridated dentifrices for caries control: strengths and limitations

Despite a plethora of in situ studies and clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of fluoridated dentifrices on caries control, in vitro pH cycling models are still broadly used because they mimic the dynamics of mineral loss and gain involved in caries formation. This paper critically reviews the current literature on existing pH-cycling models for the in vitro evaluation of the efficacy of fluoridated dentifrices for caries control, focusing on their strengths and limitations. A search was undertaken in the MEDLINE electronic journal database using the keywords "pH-cycling", "demineralization", "remineralization", "in vitro", "fluoride", "dentifrice". The primary outcome was the decrease of demineralization or the increase of remineralization as measured by different methods (e. g.: transverse microradiography) or tooth fluoride uptake. Inclusion of studies, data extraction and quality assessment were undertaken independently and in duplicate by two members of the review team. Disagreements were solved by discussion and consensus or by a third party. One hundred and sixteen studies were included, of which 42 addressed specifically the comparison of dentifrices using different pH-cycling models. The other studies included meta-analysis or reviews, data about the effect of different fluoride sources on de-remineralization, different methods for analysis de-remineralization and chemical variables and characteristics of dental hard tissues that might have influence on de-remineralization processes. Generally, the studies presented ability to detect known results established by clinical trials, to demonstrate dose-related responses in the fluoride content of the dentifrices, and to provide repeatability and reproducibility between tests. In order to accomplish these features satisfactorily, it is mandatory to take into account the type of substrate and baseline artificial lesion, as well as the adequate response variables and statistical approaches to be used. This critical review of literature showed that the currently available pH-cycling models are appropriate to detect dose-response and pH-response of fluoride dentifrices, and to evaluate the impact of new active principles on the effect of fluoridated dentifrices, as well as their association with other anti-caries treatments.

Anticaries effect of dentifrices with calcium citrate and sodium trimetaphosphate

Because of the growing concerns regarding fluoride ingestion by young children and dental fluorosis, it is necessary to develop new dentifrices. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dentifrices with calcium citrate (Cacit) and sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP) on enamel demineralization. Material and Methods: Enamel blocks (n=70), previously selected through surface hardness analysis, were submitted to daily treatment with dentifrices diluted in artificial saliva and to a pH-cycling model. The fluoride concentration in dentifrices was 0, 250, 450, 550, 1,000 and 1,100 mu g F/g. Crest (TM) was used as a positive control (1,100 mu g F/g). Cacit (0.25%) and TMP (0.25%) were added to dentifrices with 450 and 1,000 mu g F/g. Surface hardness was measured again and integrated loss of subsurface hardness and fluoride concentration in enamel were calculated. Parametric and correlation tests were used to determine difference (p<0.05) and dose-response relationship between treatments. Results: The addition of Cacit and TMP did not provide a higher fluoride concentration in enamel, however it reduced (p<0.05) mineral loss when compared to other dentifrices; the dentifrice with Cacit and TMP and a low fluoride concentration presented similar results when compared to a dentifrice with 1,100 mu g F/g (p>0.05). Conclusions: Dentifrices with 450 and 1,000 mu g F/g, Cacit and TMP were as effective as a gold standard one.

Molar Incisor Hypomineralization

Enamel defects are common alterations that can occur in both the primary or permanent dentition. A range of etiological factors related to this pathology can be found in the literature. Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is a kind of enamel defect alteration that requires complex treatment solutions, and for this reason, it is of great clinical interest for dental practice. This article describes the management of a clinical case of MIH in a 7-year-old child. The different treatment options depending on the extension of the defect, the degree of tooth eruption and the hygiene and diet habits of the patient are also discussed.

The association between prune belly syndrome and dental anomalies: a case report

Background: Prune belly syndrome is a rare condition produced by an early mesodermal defect that causes abdominal abnormalities. However, the literature indicates that disturbances related to ectodermal development may also be present. This is the first case report in the literature to suggest that dental abnormalities are part of the broad spectrum of clinical features of prune belly syndrome. Because the syndrome causes many serious medical problems, early diagnosis of abnormalities involving the primary and permanent dentitions are encouraged.Case presentation: The authors report the clinical case of a 4-year-old Caucasian boy with prune belly syndrome. In addition to the triad of abdominal muscle deficiency, abnormalities of the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts, and cryptorchidism, a geminated mandibular right central incisor, agenesis of a mandibular permanent left incisor, and congenitally missing primary teeth (namely, the mandibular right and left lateral incisors) were noted.Conclusion: This original case report about prune belly syndrome highlights the possibility that dental abnormalities are a part of the broad spectrum of clinical features of the syndrome. Therefore, an accurate intra-oral clinical examination and radiographic evaluation are required for patients with this syndrome in order to provide an early diagnosis of abnormalities involving the primary and permanent dentitions.

Desgaste interproximal e suas implicações clínicas

INTRODUÇÃO: o alinhamento dentário correto, bem como sua estabilidade, representam objetivos importantes do tratamento ortodôntico. O apinhamento na região anterior é uma anomalia de posição dentária comum e para obter sua correção as opções clínicas disponíveis para o ortodontista são as extrações dentárias, a expansão do arco dentário ou os desgastes interproximais. Os desgastes freqüentemente são indicados, mas existem questionamentos quanto às indicações, técnicas e condições pré e pós-tratamento. OBJETIVO: o objetivo deste artigo é apresentar uma discussão, embasada na literatura pertinente, dos principais fatores envolvidos com este procedimento clínico.

Avaliação ortopantomográfica das angulações mesiodistais de caninos, pré-molares e molares inferiores com e sem a presença dos terceiros molares

OBJETIVOS: comparar os valores médios normais das angulações mesiodistais dentárias, propostos por Ursi, em 1989, com as angulações mesiodistais de caninos, pré-molares e molares inferiores em indivíduos com e sem a presença dos terceiros molares inferiores e idades entre 18 e 25 anos. Além disso, foram comparados os valores das angulações mesiodistais desses dentes nessas duas situações. MÉTODOS: foram utilizadas 40 radiografias ortopantomográficas de indivíduos, de ambos os gêneros, que não receberam tratamento ortodôntico, divididos em dois grupos: Grupo I, constituído por 20 radiografias que não apresentavam os terceiros molares inferiores; e Grupo II, formado por 20 radiografias com os terceiros molares inferiores presentes. RESULTADOS E CONCLUSÕES: a análise dos resultados e a análise estatística permitiram concluir que ambos os grupos exibiram pré-molares e molares inferiores mais angulados em sentido mesial, quando comparados à oclusão normal. Por outro lado, a angulação mesiodistal de caninos inferiores mostrou-se semelhante àquela apresentada em casos de oclusão normal. Os dois grupos, quando comparados entre si, exibiram semelhantes valores angulares dos caninos, pré-molares e molares inferiores, de modo que a presença dos terceiros molares não exerceu influência sobre essas angulações mesiodistais dentárias.

Comparação entre os exames radiográficos convencional e digitalizado em relação ao plano de tratamento de superfícies oclusais

O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar as decisões de tratamento restaurador de superfícies oclusais, sem cavitação, quando realizadas através dos aspectos clínicos e radiográficos, convencional e digitalizado. Foram examinados, 33 sítios das superfícies oclusais de 30 molares permanentes extraídos, com e sem pigmentação. O plano de tratamento para cada região foi realizado por 5 cirurgiões-dentistas, professores universitários, utilizando dois tipos de exames: exame visual de fotografias e radiografia interproximal convencional (IV + RXC); e exame visual de fotografias e radiografia digitalizada (IV + DIGORA). O padrão de validação para os planos de tratamento foi realizado através do aspecto histológico. A sensibilidade em determinar a não-necessidade de tratamento restaurador foi, em média, tanto para a IV + RXC quanto para a IV + DIGORA, de 0,23. A especificidade foi, em média, de 0,83 e 0,86, para a IV + RXC e IV + DIGORA, respectivamente. Quando comparou-se os planos de tratamento intra-examinadores, não foi encontrada diferença estatisticamente significante à nível de 5%. Baseado nestes dados, pode-se concluir que os métodos radiográficos, convencional e digitalizado, não demonstraram diferenças na efetividade da determinação do plano de tratamento de superfícies oclusais sem cavitação.

Avaliação radiográfica do comportamento dos terceiros molares inferiores em pacientes tratados ortodonticamente com e sem extrações de primeiros pré-molares

OBJETIVO: o presente trabalho objetivou avaliar as alterações ocorridas nas posições dos terceiros molares inferiores em pacientes tratados ortodonticamente com extrações dos primeiros pré-molares. METODOLOGIA: utilizou-se 80 ortopantomografias, obtidas no pré e pós-tratamento ortodôntico corretivo de 40 pacientes, divididos em dois grupos. O grupo 1 constou de 20 pacientes (13 femininos e 7 masculinos) que se submeteram a tratamento ortodôntico com extrações de primeiros pré-molares. O grupo 2 foi constituído por 20 pacientes (13 femininos e 7 masculinos) tratados ortodonticamente sem extrações. Foram estabelecidas medidas angulares, com o objetivo de avaliar as inclinações e medidas lineares, para analisar as modificações no sentido vertical dos terceiros molares. Todos os dados foram mensurados duas vezes, cujos valores médios foram submetidos dos testes t emparelhado e teste t independente. RESULTADOS: os resultados mostraram diferenças estatisticamente significantes (p<0,01) entre as medidas angulares finais e iniciais do grupo 1. CONCLUSÕES: concluiu-se que os deslocamentos verticais dos terceiros molares inferiores são semelhantes nos casos tratados ortodonticamente com e sem extrações e que estes elementos dentários tornam-se mais verticalizados ao final da terapia realizada com extrações de primeiros pré-molares inferiores.

O efeito da retração dos dentes anteriores sobre o ponto A em pacientes submetidos ao tratamento ortodôntico corretivo

OBJETIVO: avaliar o efeito da retração anterior sobre o ponto A sagital e verticalmente, bem como a correlação e a previsibilidade do comportamento dessas estruturas. METODOLOGIA: sessenta telerradiografias em norma lateral foram usadas, tomadas no início e no final do tratamento ortodôntico corretivo, a partir de 30 pacientes (22 feminino e 8 masculino) com idade entre 10 e 17 anos antes do tratamento, com má oclusão de Classe II, divisão 1 ou Classe I, que foram submetidos às extrações dos quatro primeiros pré-molares ou somente dois primeiros pré-molares superiores. Além das variáveis .1NA,1-NA, 1.PP e 1-A, mensurações lineares horizontais e verticais foram feitas em relação a uma linha de referência construída a partir da linha SN menos 7º e uma linha perpendicular a ela. Todos os dados foram mensurados duas vezes, e as médias foram submetidas ao teste t emparelhado, de correlação linear e de regressão. RESULTADOS: em média, o ponto A retraiu 0,71mm e movimentou para baixo 2,38mm, seguindo 1,03mm e 4,13mm de retração, respectivamente, do ápice radicular e da borda incisal, e 2,35mm de extrusão dentária. A retração do ponto A apresentou correlação positiva em relação ao ápice radicular (r = 0,75; alfa < 0,0001) e em relação à retração da borda incisal (r = 0,70; alfa < 0,0001), mostrando um comportamento ântero-posterior previsível. CONCLUSÕES: concluiu-se que o ponto A retraiu-se e movimentou-se para baixo seguindo o dente, e a retração do ponto A em relação aos incisivos foi previsível.

Enamel microabrasion followed by dental bleaching for patients after orthodontic treatment - Case reports

This article reports clinical procedures used to remove residual bonded resin and enamel stains following bracket debonding at the conclusion of orthodontic treatment. A water-cooled fine-tapered diamond bur was used for resin removal, followed by enamel surface finishing using a commercially available microabrasion paste. It was noted that residual tooth coloration remained yellowish because of enamel translucency; the yellow dentin shade showed through. Additional tooth shade lightening was achieved using carbamide peroxide dental bleaching solution in custom-formed trays. This report describes a safe and effective technique that optimizes tooth appearance at the conclusion of orthodontic therapy. Mechanical resin removal, enamel microabrasion, and tooth bleaching are employed.