Showing papers in "Acta Odontologica Scandinavica in 2009"

Short-term effect of chewing gums containing probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri on the levels of inflammatory mediators in gingival crevicular fluid.

Abstract: Objective. To investigate the effect of a chewing gum containing probiotic bacteria on gingival inflammation and the levels of selected inflammatory mediators in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). Material and Methods. Forty-two healthy adults with moderate levels of gingival inflammation entered a double-blind placebo-controlled study design. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of three parallel arms: Group A/P was given one active and one placebo gum daily, Group A/A received two active chewing gums, and Group P/P two placebo gums. The chewing gums contained two strains of Lactobacillus reuteri: ATCC 55730 and ATCC PTA 5289 (110 8 CFU/gum, respectively). The subjects were instructed to chew the gums for 10 min over the course of 2 weeks. Bleeding on probing (BOP) and GCF sampling were conducted at baseline and after 1, 2 and 4 weeks. The levels of IL-1b, TNF-a, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10 were determined using luminex technology and multiplex immunoassay kits. Results. BOP improved and GCF volume decreased in all groups during the chewing period, but the results were statistically significant (pB0.05) only in Groups A/P and A/A. The levels of TNF-a and IL-8 decreased significantly (pB0.05) in Group A/A compared with baseline after 1 and 2 weeks, respectively. A nonsignificant decreasing tendency was also observed concerning IL-1b during the chewing period. The levels of IL-6 and IL-10 were unaffected in all groups after 1 and 2 weeks. Conclusions. The reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines in GCF may be proof of principle for the probiotic approach combating inflammation in the oral cavity.

Measurement of translucency of tooth enamel and dentin

Abstract: Objective. To determine the translucency of human and bovine enamel and dentin using reflection spectrophotometers. Material and Methods. The color of intact human and bovine enamel and dentin specimens was measured over a white and a black plasticine backing using two spectrophotometers with different aperture sizes; translucency parameter (TP) and contrast ratio (CR) were calculated. Plasticine was used as backing because the specimens were not uniform. The TP values of five composite resins measured over the backings of plasticine and reflectance standards were also determined. Results. There were no significant differences between the TP values of the composite resins measured over the backings of plasticine and reflectance standards (p>0.05). Mean TP values of 1 mm thick bovine enamel, bovine dentin, human enamel and human dentin were 14.7, 15.2, 18.7, and 16.4, respectively, based on the 3 mm round aperture. There were significant correlations between the TP values measured by the two apertures; the...

Prevalence and distribution of demarcated opacities and their sequelae in permanent 1st molars and incisors in 7 to 13-year-old Brazilian children.

Abstract: Objective. To determine the prevalence of demarcated opacities in permanent 1st molars and incisors in 7 to 13-year-old Brazilian children. Material and methods. The study population comprised 292 children from a middle social class public school in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Children with all 1st permanent molars erupted were eligible for participation. Clinical examination was performed by two calibrated examiners who recorded demarcated opacities, post-eruptive breakdown, atypical restorations, and extractions due to demarcated opacities. Forty-three children had at least one molar that could not be examined, which left 249 children for the data analysis. Results. One hundred children (40.2%) had one or more 1st molars with demarcated opacities with a mean number of 1.98 (SD 1.09) affected molars. The number of affected incisors increased with increasing number of affected molars. Twenty-two (18.6%) of 118 children with unaffected 1st molars had affected incisors. Demarcated opacities were the most freque...

Caries preventive effect of casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP): a meta-analysis.

Abstract: Objective. This systematic review with meta-analyses sought to answer the following question: “Does CPP-ACP [casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate], when introduced into the oral environment, provide any caries-preventive benefit superior to that of any other intervention or placebo?” Material and methods. Seven electronic databases were searched for trials relevant to the review question. Twelve articles were accepted after application of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results. Of the accepted articles, five in situ randomized control trials (RCT) could be pooled for meta-analyses. During the short-term (7–21 days) in situ trials, participants wore appliances containing enamel slabs that were analyzed in the laboratory after exposure to CPP-ACP. The pooled in situ results showed a weighted mean difference (WMD) of the percentage remineralization scores in favor of chewing gum with 18.8 mg CPP-ACP as compared to chewing gum without CPP-ACP (WMD −8.01; 95% CI: −10.54 to −5.48; p = 0.00001), ...

Coaggregation between probiotic bacteria and caries-associated strains: an in vitro study.

Abstract: Objective. To evaluate the in vitro abilities of probiotic bacteria derived from consumer products to coaggregate with caries-associated mutans streptococci. Material and Methods. Six lactobacillus ...

Validation of an age-modified caries risk assessment program (Cariogram) in preschool children.

Abstract: Objectives. (i) To validate caries risk profiles assessed with a computer program against actual caries development in preschool children, (ii) to study the possible impact of a preventive program ...

Structural influence from calcium phosphate coatings and its possible effect on enhanced bone integration.

Abstract: Objective. The aim of this review was to summarize our present knowledge about calcium phosphate (CaP) coatings on implants with respect to their topographical appearance at micrometer as well as n...

Social life aspects of young adults with cleft lip and palate: grounded theory approach.

Abstract: Objectives. The findings of many questionnaire and inventory studies suggest that people with cleft lip and/or palate report a decreased quality of life. Common problems include dissatisfaction with the external appearance of the lips and nose, speech problems, depression, and anxiety. This qualitative study aimed to explore the subjective perceptions and values of young adults with clefts, particularly with regard to their social lives. Material and methods. Twelve persons participated in an in-depth interview. Among those, seven had a repaired isolated cleft palate involving only the hard/soft palate. Five had a repaired bilateral cleft lip and palate that had been a continuous lesion of the lip, the alveolar process, and the palate. A grounded theory approach was used to conduct and analyze the interviews. Results. The study revealed seven important categories – hoping to be like other people, being treated differently from others, experiencing deviation from others, regarding oneself as being differen...

Oral health impact on quality of life in an adult Swedish population.

Abstract: Objectives. Oral health has a major impact on general quality of life. The aspects of oral health that are most important for each individual vary, and quality of life is a construct and not a meas ...

Average craniofacial development from 6 to 35 years of age in a mixed group of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Abstract: Objective. To investigate long term the average changes in craniofacial morphology in a group of Norwegian juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients with mixed diagnosis from 6 to 35 years of age. A matched group of healthy individuals was included as controls. Material and Methods. Craniofacial development in 38 females and 16 males with JIA was followed on lateral cephalograms from childhood for 23–31 years. The patients were compared with the healthy individuals at the ages of 6, 9, 12, and 35 years. Results. At 6 and 9 years of age, the average craniofacial morphology in the JIA patients was similar to that of the control subjects. At 12 years of age, significant craniofacial morphological differences between the JIA and the control subjects appeared. These included a steeper mandibular plane angle and a more retrognathic position of the mandible. The length of the mandible (ar-gn), the height of the ramus (ar-tgo), and the length of the corpus (tgo-gn) were significantly smaller in the JIA patient...

Orofacial dysfunction in ectodermal dysplasias measured using the Nordic Orofacial Test-Screening protocol

Abstract: Orofacial dysfunction in ectodermal dysplasias measured using the Nordic Orofacial Test-Screening protocol

Factors influencing dentists' choice of amalgam and tooth-colored restorative materials for Class II preparations in younger patients.

Abstract: Objective. To identify factors associated with dentists’ decisions on choice of restorative material in children and adolescents. Material and methods. In the period 2001–2004, 27 dentists in the Public Dental Health Service in Norway placed 4030 Class II restorations in 1912 patients. The reason for placement, previous caries experience (DMFT), oral hygiene, and characteristics of the cavity were recorded. Results. The most frequently used material was resin composite (81.5%), followed by compomer (12.7%), amalgam (4.6%), and glass ionomer cement (1.2%). Tooth-colored restorations were more frequently placed than amalgam in younger patients (p=0.017). Female patients received fewer amalgam restorations than male patients (p=0.006). Amalgam was more often used in patients with high DMFT (p<0.001) and more commonly in treatment of deeper dentine caries than caries near the dentino-enamel border (p=0.021). Amalgam was more frequently placed in molars than in premolars (p<0.001). In a logistic regression mod...

Tooth loss prevalence and risk indicators in an isolated population of Brazil

Abstract: Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence, extent, and risk indicators of tooth loss in an isolated population of Brazil. Material and methods. Two-hundred-and-forty-two subjects, ranging in age from 14 to 82 years (mean 36.2 years), were identified by census in an isolated population of Brazil. All consenting subjects received a full-mouth clinical (DFT index and information about missing teeth) and periodontal examination of 6 sites per tooth. Furthermore, they were interviewed using a structured written questionnaire in order to gather information about demographic, environmental, and biological variables. Results. Of the 200 subjects (80% response rate), 19 (9.5%) were edentulous, 90% had lost at least one tooth, and 39% had lost more than 8 teeth. The mean number of teeth lost was 9.5 (95% CI = 8.2–10.8). First mandibular molars were the most commonly missing teeth. In a multiple logistic regression analysis based on a theoretical hierarchical model of tooth loss, having more than...

Variation in subjective oral health indicators of 65-year-olds in Norway and Sweden.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Guided by the conceptual framework of Gilbert and co-workers, this study assesses satisfaction with oral health as reported by 65-year-olds in Sweden and Norway, the relationship of socio-demographic factors, clinical and subjective oral health indicators with satisfaction of oral health, and the consistency of those relationships across countries.MATERIAL AND METHODS: In 2007, standardized questionnaires were mailed to all the residents in two counties in Sweden and three in Norway who were born in 1942. Response rates were 73.1% (n=6078) in Sweden and 56.0% (n=4062) in Norway.RESULTS: Totals of 76.8% of the Swedish and 76.5% of the Norwegian participants reported satisfaction with oral health. Corresponding figures for toothache were 48.1% (Sweden) versus 51.5% (Norway), and for temporomandibular joint symptoms, 10.9% (Sweden) versus 15.1% (Norway). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that subjects who perceived they had bad health, smoked daily, had missing teeth, experienced toothache, had problems with chewing, bad breath, and oral impacts were less likely than their counterparts in the opposite groups to be satisfied with their oral health status. The corresponding odds ratios (ORs) ranged from 0.08 (problems chewing) to 0.2 (oral impact). No statistically significant two-way interactions occurred and the model explained 46% of the variance in satisfaction with oral health across the two countries (45% in Sweden and 47% in Norway).CONCLUSIONS: The oral condition of 65-year-olds in Norway and Sweden produced impacts in oral symptoms, functional limitations, and problems with daily activities that varied to some extent. Satisfaction with oral health varied by socio-demographic factors and subjective oral health indicators. A full understanding of the oral health and treatment needs of 65-year-olds cannot be captured by clinical measures alone.

Caries risk profiles in Sardinian schoolchildren using Cariogram

Abstract: Objective. The aim of our study was to assess the caries risk profile in a group of Sardinian schoolchildren and to compare the outcome with their history of caries. Material and methods. Using the computer-based program “Cariogram”, 957 subjects aged 7, 8, and 9 years were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. The children were examined to evaluate dmfs/DMFS and gingival conditions. Data on dietary and oral hygiene habits were collected and saliva was analyzed, including levels of mutans streptococci (MS) and lactobacilli (Lb). Based on the Cariogram profiles, the children were divided into five risk groups in accordance with “chance of avoiding caries”. Results. Almost 50% of the children had a low caries risk, while more than a quarter had less than 40% “chance of avoiding caries”. A significant linear trend between the five Cariogram categories and dmfs/DMFS was observed in the three age groups (p<0.001). Conclusions. The Cariogram risk profile showed strong correlations to the caries experience of ...

The proteome of the human parotid gland secretion in elderly with and without root caries.

Abstract: Objective. Saliva is important for oral health, including the prevention of dental decay. The purpose of the present work was to indicate whether the parotid gland has altered function in the elderly, particularly in terms of proteins secreted, and whether its functional status could be associated with the presence of root caries. Material and methods. Ductal parotid gland secretion was obtained from 51 individuals: 21 elderly with carious roots (Patients), 20 elderly (Controls), and 10 adults (Young) without root caries. Pooled aliquots were analyzed by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry to yield lists of major proteins present in the three groups. Results. Approximately 200 unique proteins were detected, of which 73 were identified repeatedly with high confidence and therefore included in the comparison. Some of the differences observed, when comparing Patients with respectively elderly Controls and the Young, resembled changes found in patients with Sjogren's syndrome, a condition associate...

Clinical assessment of the effect of a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor on aphthous ulcers.

Abstract: Objective Aphthous ulceration is a common form of recurrent ulceration of the oral mucosa Numerous treatments have been tried as a means of relieving pain, disinfecting the ulcer base, and reducing inflammation, but with limited success Tetracycline and its derivatives have been shown to be inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are part of the inflammatory response and contribute to the breakdown of tissue in the ulcer Of the commercially available tetracyclines, doxycycline has shown the best inhibition of the MMPs The aim of this study was to test clinically whether the inhibitory effect of a low-dose doxycycline in a hydrogel on MMPs would speed the recovery of oral ulceration Material and Methods Forty-nine patients participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial Results Sixty-eight percent of ulcers had healed by the third day of treatment with the doxycycline gel, whereas only 25% of the patients receiving the placebo reported healing of their ulcers wit

Effect of diabetes on periodontal status of a population with poor oral health.

Abstract: Objective. Diabetes is a global health problem and its prevalence is increasing worldwide. The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of diabetes on the periodontal status of a Pakistani population with poor oral hygiene. Material and methods. Eighty-eight individuals with diabetes and 80 non-diabetic individuals were recruited from a disadvantaged district in Karachi, Pakistan. The group with diabetes comprised 50 males and 38 females, and the non-diabetic group 43 males and 37 females. All underwent clinical and radiographic examination. Results. The average numbers of teeth in the diabetes and non-diabetes groups were 24 and 26, respectively. The odds ratio (OR) for missing or fewer teeth was 2.3 times higher for diabetics than for non-diabetics (CI 1.32–4.14; p<0.001). Diabetic patients had more sites with plaque than did non-diabetics (OR 1.96, CI 0.99–3.88; p<0.056). Moderate to severe periodontitis was significantly more prevalent among diabetic patients (p<0.01). Conclusion. In this ...

Dental health and disease determinants among 35-year-olds in Oslo, Norway.

Abstract: Objective The aim of the present study was to identify non-biological determinants associated with the number of sound teeth (ST) and presence of decayed surfaces (DS) among 35-year-old Oslo citizens Material and methods Randomly selected participants (n=149, response rate 64%) completed a self-administered questionnaire and were examined clinically and radiographically Dental caries was registered clinically following World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria for caries registration, and the findings were combined with radiographic caries recordings The number of sound teeth and the presence of two or more dentine caries lesions (D3S≥2) were selected as dependent variables Associations between selected dependent variables and possible determinants were assessed by linear and logistic regression analyses, taking into account the hierarchical relationships between the independent variables Results On average, 35-year-olds had 171 (SD=56) ST Half of the participants had no DS and 26% ha

Effects of improvement in periodontal inflammation by toothbrushing on serum lipopolysaccharide concentration and liver injury in rats.

Abstract: Objective. Periodontitis increases the serum lipopolysaccharide level, contributing to liver injury. Toothbrushing improves periodontitis and may also affect serum lipopolysaccharide concentration and periodontitis-induced liver injury. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether the improvement in periodontal inflammation by toothbrushing clinically affects the serum lipopolysaccharide level and hepatic pathological changes in rat periodontitis. Material and methods. Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups, 2 groups receiving topical application of pyrogen-free water to the gingival sulcus for 4 or 8 weeks. The next 2 groups received topical application of lipopolysaccharide and proteases for 4 or 8 weeks. The last group received topical application of lipopolysaccharide and proteases for 8 weeks, and the palatal gingiva was brushed with a powered toothbrush once a day for 4 weeks prior to the end of the experimental period. Results. Topical application of lipopolysaccharide and pr...

Influence of changing occlusal support on jaw-closing muscle electromyographic activity in healthy men and women.

Abstract: Objectives To test whether changes in occlusal support differentially modulate masseter and anterior temporalis muscle electromyographic (EMG) activity during controlled maximal voluntary clenching Material and methods Forty-seven healthy subjects (32 M and 15 F, 229±13 years) were recruited Cotton-rolls were used to modify the occlusal contact relations and were positioned on the right, left, or both sides, and either in the molar or premolar regions, ie six different occlusal combinations Surface EMG activity was recorded bilaterally from the masseter and anterior temporalis area and normalized with respect to maximal voluntary clenching in the intercuspal position Analysis of variance and the paired t-test were used to test the data Results Normalized EMG activity was influenced by changes in cotton-roll modified occlusal support, and there were differences between muscles (p<0001) In general, EMG activity decreased in both muscles when occlusal support was moved from the molar to the pre

ABM/P-15 modulates proliferation and mRNA synthesis of growth factors of periodontal ligament cells.

Abstract: Objective. Periodontal regeneration is histologically defined as regeneration of the tooth supporting structures, including alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, and cementum. Cells in the remaining periodontal tissues need optimal conditions if they are to perform their functions in the regeneration process. The present study is an investigation of the molecular effects of ABM/P-15 on human periodontal ligament cells (PDL) in vitro. Material and methods. PDL cells obtained from healthy subjects were used for in vitro experiments. Cell proliferation, morphology, and mineralization using Von kossa staining were evaluated. mRNA expressions for transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), basic fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), bone morphogenic protein-2 (BMP-2), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and type 1 collagen (COL1) were assessed on days 3 and 7 using RT-PCR. Results. ABM/P-15 enhanced proliferation of cultured PDL cells. It...

Penetration of moxifloxacin into rat mandibular bone and soft tissue.

Abstract: Objective. Based on its in vitro activity and spectrum of activity, the new 8-methoxyquinolone antibiotic moxifloxacin (MXF) seems suited for the antibiotic therapy of odontogenic infections. Penetration into the relevant tissue is another prerequisite for clinical efficacy. For this reason, the levels of MXF in plasma, soft tissue, and mandibular bone were determined in an animal model with Wistar rats. Material and methods. Samples of 49 rats were analyzed. Tissue samples were homogenized and proteins were precipitated. The pharmacokinetic evaluation was conducted based on non-compartmental analysis. Results. The concentration-time courses of tissues show a more plateau-shaped curve compared to plasma. Calculated AUC (area under the curve) ratios tissue:plasma were M. masseter:plasma = 2.64 and mandibles:plasma = 1.13. Conclusions. Administration of antibiotics is considered an important part of therapy during and/or after surgical procedures in the maxillofacial area. Because of the good penetration in...

The human periodontal membrane – focusing on the spatial interrelation between the epithelial layer of Malassez, fibers, and innervation

Abstract: Objective The purpose of the present study was to map the spatial interrelation of fibers, peripheral nerves, and epithelial layer of Malassez in human periodontal membrane in areas close to the root surfaces Material and Methods Four healthy permanent teeth extracted from four patients during puberty due to orthodontic treatment planning were analyzed The extracted teeth, fixed in 4% neutral buffered formaldehyde for 5 days, were decalcified in 05 M EDTA Paraffin blocks were sagittally cut in 5 µm thick serial sections and mounted on Superfrost® Plus microscope slides For survey, every fifth slide was stained with Alcian Blue/Van Gieson Immunohistochemical reactions: Cytokeratin (wide spectrum screening) for epithelium, anti-vimentin for fibers, and anti-neuronal nuclei (NeuN) for innervationResults The study indicates that the epithelial layer of Malassez is a border between different fiber morphologies and innervation patterns Innervation is identified predominantly in the periodontal layer w

Interaction of articaine hydrochloride with prokaryotic membrane lipids.

Abstract: Objective. Local anesthetics are the most commonly used drugs in dentistry, with a wide range of effects, including antimicrobial activity. High antimicrobial effects have recently been reported on oral microbes from articaine hydrochloride, revealed by the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimal bactericidal concentration. Additionally, articaine has recently been used as an alkaline component in endodontic materials with a proposed antibacterial activity. However, the detailed mechanisms of action have not been discussed. Material and Methods. We determined the Langmuir surface pressure/molecular area isotherms of prokaryotic lipid monolayers, as well as the phospholipid phase transitions, by employing differential scanning calorimetry on unilamellar prokaryotic liposomes (bilayers). Results. Articaine hydrochloride was found to interact with the prokaryotic membrane lipids in both monolayers and bilayers. An increase of the phospholipid molecular area of acidic glycerophospholipids as well as a decrease in phase transition temperature and enthalpy were found with increasing articaine hydrochloride concentration. The thermodynamic changes by adding articaine hydrochloride to prokaryotic membrane lipids are potentially related to the effects observed from antimicrobial peptides resulting from membrane insertion, aggregate composition, pore formation, and lysis. Conclusion. Interaction of articaine hydrochloride with prokaryotic membrane lipids is indicated. Hence, further research is necessary to gain insight into where these compounds exert their effects at the molecular level.

Immunohistochemical studies of the periodontal membrane in primary teeth.

Abstract: Objectives. To describe the periodontal membrane of human primary teeth immunohistochemically, while focusing on the epithelial layer of Malassez, fibers, and peripheral nerves, and to compare the findings with those of a previous study of human permanent teeth. Material and methods. Nineteen human primary teeth extracted in late childhood in connection with treatment were fixed, decalcified, dehydrated, and embedded in paraffin. Paraffin sections were stained with wide spectrum screening (WSS), Vimentin, and NeuN in order to mark the epithelial layer of Malassez, fibers, and peripheral nerves. Results. For root surfaces without resorption, the epithelial rests of Malassez appeared as small scattered islands. The fibers varied from tightly packed close to the root surface to a messy and loose organization. Innervation could be seen in close proximity to the root surface. The epithelial cells of Malassez were not usually seen along root surfaces with resorption. The fibers were sparse or not present. Inner...

In vitro shear bond strength of dual-curing resin cements to two different high-strength ceramic materials with different surface texture

Abstract: Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) of two dual-curing resin cements to two high-strength ceramics with different surface texture. Material and methods. Composite cylinders were bonded to aluminum oxide (A) and zirconium oxide (Z) ceramic disks with six different surfaces. Investigated surfaces were for both ceramics: dry-pressed Procera Crown (A1, Z1), machined Procera Bridge (A2, Z2), airborne particle abraded Procera bridge (A3, Z3). Additional surfaces were, for alumina, dry-pressed Procera Laminate (A4) and, for zirconia, two modified surfaces (Z4, Z5). Two adhesive resin cements were used (Clearfil Esthetic and RelyX ARC). SBS was tested in a universal testing machine before and after artificial aging by thermal cycling. Results. Mean SBS ranged from 6.1 to 38.4 MPa before and from 0.0 to 41.4 MPa after aging. Clearfil Esthetic in A3, A4, and Z3 performed better than RelyX ARC. Aging decreased SBS, except for Z1, Z4, and Z5. For alumina, A4 was higher i...

Clinical evaluation of a chemomechanical method for caries removal in children and adolescents.

Abstract: Objective. The purpose of this study was to make a clinical comparison of the chemomechanical method for caries removal and the conventional rotary instruments technique when used in children and adolescents. Material and Methods. The study comprised 120 patients aged 3–17 years randomized into two groups: caries were removed chemomechanically in 60 patients and 60 patients received conventional treatment with rotary instruments. The outcome variables were: clinically complete caries removal, pain during caries removal, need for local anesthesia, treatment time, preferences of patients, and clinical success of the restorations during the 12-month evaluation period. Results. Complete caries removal was achieved in 92% of chemomechanically treated teeth and in all teeth treated with rotary instruments (p>0.05). The chemomechanical method significantly reduced the need for local anesthesia (p<0.001). Eighty-five percent of patients treated with Carisolv and 47% treated with rotary instruments were satisfied ...

Economic aspects of the detection of occlusal dentine caries.

Abstract: Objective. To evaluate the cost of true-positive occlusal dentine caries detection in permanent molars assessed by: (I) visual–tactile examination, (II) visual–tactile examination combined with bitewing radiographs, and (III) selective radiographic examination of patients with lesions detected clinically. A second aim was to analyse the different strategies when the costs of the subsequent restorative care are considered. Methods. A model analysis was applied owing to the lack of original articles. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated from a systematic review and included in vitro and in vivo studies of medium and high quality. The direct costs for examinations and restorative care were extracted from the costs of the Public Dental Service in Sweden (2006). Results. The diagnostic costs per true-positive finding were dependent on the occurrence of occlusal caries and increased with decreasing prevalence. The strategy by which radiographs were exposed selectively on the basis of findings from visual...

Anterior tooth wear and retention type until 5 years after orthodontic treatment.

Abstract: Objectives. To study occlusal wear of anterior teeth in orthodontic patients retained with different retainers until 5 years post-treatment, and to investigate whether type of retention influences occlusal wear. Material and methods. Orthodontic patients (n=222), aged 15 years maximally at the start of treatment, were followed until 5 years post-treatment. In the maxilla, a retainer bonded on all six teeth or a removable retainer was used; in the mandible, a lingual retainer was bonded on all anterior teeth or on canines only. Dental casts were analyzed before treatment (T0), after treatment (T1), and 5 years post-treatment (T5). Incisal and canine wear were scored by applying a grading scale. Intercanine width, overjet, and overbite were measured with an electronic caliper. Statistics used were: Paired samples t-test for differences over time; Pearson correlation coefficients for associations between wear and retention type; and backward linear regression for influence of retention type on wear. Results....