Showing papers in "European Journal of Dentistry in 2013"

Antimicrobial efficacy of five essential oils against oral pathogens: An in vitro study

Abstract: Objectives: This study was aimed to find out the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of five essential oils against oral pathogens and to find out the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of five essential oils against oral pathogens. Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial activities by detecting MIC and MBC/MFC of five essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, thyme oil, peppermint oil and eugenol oil were evaluated against four common oral pathogens by broth dilution method. The strains used for the study were Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Enterococcus fecalis ATCC 29212, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Candida albicans ATCC 90028. Results: Out of five essential oils, eugenol oil, peppermint oil, tea tree oil exhibited significant inhibitory effect with mean MIC of 0.62 ± 0.45, 9.00 ± 15.34, 17.12 ± 31.25 subsequently. Mean MBC/MFC for tea tree oil was 17.12 ± 31.25, for lavender oil 151.00 ± 241.82, for thyme oil 22.00 ± 12.00, for peppermint oil 9.75 ± 14.88 and for eugenol oil 0.62 ± 0.45. E. fecalis exhibited low degree of sensitivity compared with all essential oils. Conclusion: Peppermint, tea tree and thyme oil can act as an effective intracanal antiseptic solution against oral pathogens.

Nanotechnology and dentistry.

Abstract: Nanotechnology deals with the physical, chemical, and biological properties of structures and their components at nanoscale dimensions. Nanotechnology is based on the concept of creating functional structures by controlling atoms and molecules on a one-by-one basis. The use of this technology will allow many developments in the health sciences as well as in materials science, bio-technology, electronic and computer technology, aviation, and space exploration. With developments in materials science and biotechnology, nanotechnology is especially anticipated to provide advances in dentistry and innovations in oral health-related diagnostic and therapeutic methods.

Evaluation of degree of conversion and hardness of dental composites photo-activated with different light guide tips

Abstract: Department of Restorative Dentistry Araraquara School of Dentistry Univ. Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Araraquara, SP

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid in endodontics

Abstract: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is a chelating agent can bind to metals via four carboxylate and two amine groups It is a polyamino carboxylic acid and a colorless, water-soluble solid, which is widely used to dissolve lime scale It is produced as several salts, notably disodium EDTA and calcium disodium EDTA EDTA reacts with the calcium ions in dentine and forms soluble calcium chelates A review of the literature and a discussion of the different indications and considerations for its usage are presented

Is the 810-nm diode laser the best choice in oral soft tissue therapy?

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of an 810-nm diode laser for treatment of benign oral soft tissue lesions. Materials and Methods: Treatment with the 810-nm diode laser was applied to a group of eighteen patients with pathological frenulum and epulis fissuratum; five patients with oral lichen planus, oral leukoplakia, and mucous membrane pemphigoid; and four patients with pyogenic granuloma. Results: Although the conventional surgery wound heals in a fairly short time, in the present study, the simple oral soft tissue lesions healed within two weeks, the white and vesiculobullous lesions healed completely within six weeks, and the pyogenic granuloma lesions healed within four weeks. Any complication was treated by using the 810-nm diode laser. Conclusions: Patient acceptance and satisfaction, without compromising health and function, have been found to be of a high degree in this present study. Thus, we can say that the use of the 810-nm diode laser may indeed be the best choice in oral soft tissue surgery.

Quantitative and qualitative analysis of microorganisms in root‑filled teeth with persistent infection: Monitoring of the endodontic retreatment

Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate in vivo microorganisms detected in root-filled teeth with post-treatment apical periodontitis and quantify colony-forming units (CFU) during endodontic retreatment. Materials and Methods: Fifteen root-filled teeth had their previous gutta-percha removed and were randomly instrumented before being divided into three groups and medicated with either [Ca (OH) 2 + 2% CHX gel], [Ca (OH) 2 + 0.9% NaCl] or 2% CHX gel. Samples were taken after removal of gutta-percha (S1), after chemomechanical preparation using 2% CHX gel (S2), and after inter-appointment dressing (S3) for 7 or 14 days later. Cultivable bacteria recovered from infected root canals at the three stages were counted and identified by means of culture and PCR assay (16S rDNA). Quantitative data were statistically analyzed by using Mann-Whitney test in which pairs of groups were compared ( P Results: CFU counts decreased significantly from S1 to S2 ( P P = 0.3093) for all three experimental groups. Chemomechanical preparation and intra-canal dressing promoted significant median reductions of 99.61% and 99.57%, respectively, in the number of bacteria compared to S1 samples. A total of 110 cultivable isolates were recovered by culture technique from 32 different species and 7 different genera. Out of the 13 target species-specific primer of bacteria analyzed, 11 were detected during endodontic retreatment. Conclusion: The great majority of taxa found in post-treatment samples were Gram-positive bacteria, although Gram-negative bacteria were found by molecular methods. Moreover, our results showed that gutta-percha removal and chemomechanical preparation are effective for root canal disinfection, whereas additional intra-canal dressing did not improve disinfection.

Cephalometric comparison of obstructive sleep apnea patients and healthy controls.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare the cephalometric characteristics of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients with those of healthy subjects and to determine possible relationships between cephalometric measurements of OSA patients and control subjects. METHODS Standardized lateral cephalograms of 16 OSA patients and 16 healthy controls were obtained. Airway dimensions and dentofacial parameters were measured using a cephalometric analysis program (Dolphin Imaging Cephalometric and Tracing Software, Chatsworth, CA, USA). All statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version 17.0.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Descriptive statistics were calculated for all measurements, and the Mann-Whitney U test was used to evaluate intergroup differences. RESULTS Midface length was significantly shorter and upper lip E-plane length was significantly longer in the OSA group than in the controls (P<.05). SNA, SNB, and mandibular plane angles (GoGn-SN), anterior and posterior facial heights, and posteroanterior face height ratio were similar in both groups. Maxillary length was slightly longer in the OSA group, whereas the mandibular length showed a slight increase in the control group (P<.05). The axial inclination of the lower incisor to its respective plane was normal, whereas the upper incisor was significantly protrusive (P<.05) in the OSA group. Distance between the hyoid and mandible was significantly greater in the OSA group than in the controls, indicating that the hyoid bone was positioned more downward in the OSA group (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS In this study, the patients with OSA demonstrated significant differences in several craniofacial measurements. OSA patients showed reduced midface length and inferiorly placed hyoid bone and tended to have smaller airway dimensions.

Evaluation of root anatomy of permanent mandibular premolars and molars in a Korean population with cone-beam computed tomography.

Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the root/number of roots and morphology of mandibular premolars and molars in a Korean population, and to evaluate the prevalence of three-rooted mandibular first molars having distolingual (DL) roots, three-rooted mandibular second molars, and C-shaped roots in mandibular second molars.

Attitudes and practices of infection control among senior dental students at college of dentistry, university of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate compliance, awareness and practices of infection control procedures among senior dental students at the College of Dentistry, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Materials and Methods: The study comprised of 119 subjects of 4 th and 5 th year dental students. A questionnaire was developed with 25 open and closed-ended questions related to barrier techniques, vaccination status, infection control practices and awareness. This was distributed among the senior dental students and completed upon signing the consent form. Each questionnaire was coded to ensure the confidentiality of responses. Results: The questionnaire was distributed among 223 senior dental students at the University of Sharjah of which only 119 students (53%) responded. Compliance with the use of protective barriers was high with the exception of protective eye wear, utilized by a mere 27% of students. There was a significant difference between 4 th and 5 th year dental students′ attitudes (p

Atomic force microscopy of bacteria from periodontal subgingival biofilm: Preliminary study results.

Abstract: Objective : Atomic force microscope (AFM) is a technology that allows analysis of the nanoscale morphology of bacteria within biofilm and provides details that may be better useful for understanding the role of bacterial interactions in the periodontal disease. Material and Methods : Five patients with periodontal ≥5 mm pockets diagnosed as generalized periodontitis and five patients with slight gingivitis were selected for the investigation. Bacteria biofilms were collected and morphologically investigated by AFM application. Results : The investigation revealed how periodontitis bacteria are characterized by specific morphologic features of the cell wall. The major representative species of bacteria causing periodontal diseases have been reproduced by a three-dimensional reconstruction showing the bacteria surface details. Conclusions : The presence of complex glycocalyx structures, bacteriophage-like vesicles, spirochetes (classic and cystic morphology) and bacterial co-aggregation has been identified by the AFM analysis. The results suggest that AFM is a reliable technique for studying bacterial morphology and for examining microbial interactions in dental plaque.

Prevalence of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs among 12-15 years old school children of Udaipur, India

Abstract: Objective: The objective of the study is to assess the prevalence of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs among 12-15 years old school children of Udaipur, India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 887 subjects aged 12-15 years. The prevalence of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs was assessed using dental aesthetic index (World Health Organization, 1997). General information on demographic data was also recorded. Chi-square test, analysis of variance and Scheffe's test were employed for statistical analysis. Results: Malocclusion and orthodontic treatment need was reported among 33.3% of the study subjects. A significant age and gender difference depicting preponderance among younger age group and a male proclivity was experiential. A significant improvement in anterior crowding and largest anterior maxillary irregularity with age was documented. Males had a significantly higher prevalence of anterior crowding, midline diastema and largest anterior maxillary irregularity than females. Conclusions: The prevalence of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment needs among school children of Udaipur city, Rajasthan, India was found to be 33.3%.A significant age and gender difference was observed in prevalence of malocclusion, crowding and largest anterior maxillary irregularity. Midline diastema showed a significant gender difference. The baseline information outlined in the present study can be appropriately utilized for the future planning to meet the orthodontic treatment need among the population.

Evaluation of dental students' perception and self-confidence levels regarding endodontic treatment.

Abstract: Objectives: The aim of this study was to obtain information about senior dental students′ perceptions and self-confidence levels regarding endodontic practice. Materials and Methods: Anonymous survey forms were handed out to senior students at Yeditepe University, Faculty of Dentistry. The students were asked to score their level of confidence using a 5-point scale and comment about future practices. Results: The response rate of the survey was 88%. 11.9% expressed endodontics as the first branch in terms of difficulty. The majority (90.5%) indicated they would perform root canal treatments within their expertise limit in the future but refer difficult cases to an endodontist. Bleaching of endodontically treated teeth, managing flare-ups, placement of a rubber dam were procedures in which students reported the lowest confidence (2.55 ± 1.17, 3.24 ± 0.96, 3.24 ± 1.19, respectively). On the other hand, students felt the lowest confidence in the treatment of maxillary molars followed by mandibular molars (3.43 ± 1.02 and 3.93 ± 0.97, respectively). Students also reported the lowest confidence in root resorptions, endo-perio lesions, traumas, retreatments and apexifications (2.93 ± 1.16, 3.07 ± 0.89, 3.24 ± 0.85, 3.33 ± 1.7 and 3.36 ± 1.1, respectively). Conclusions: The results showing students′ lower confidence in more challenging aspects of dentistry may be related with the attitude of dental schools to refer these cases to post graduate students and instilling information about these cases on a theoretical basis only. Though there seems to be a tendency for students to refer challenging cases to a specialist in future, authorities should give priority to enhance the way information and experience is conveyed regarding various aspects of endodontic treatment.

Microleakage of newly developed glass carbomer cement in primary teeth

Abstract: Objective: Glass carbomer cement represents a new generation of dental material, which mineralizes gradually into fluorapatite. The aim of this study was to evaluate the microleakage and marginal integrity of newly developed glass carbomer cement with and without protective surface coating (SC) in primary molars.

The relationship between dental health behavior, oral hygiene and gingival status of dental students in the United Arab Emirates.

Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of knowledge acquired in preventive aspects of dental education on dental students’ own health attitudes, oral hygiene and gingival status in the United Arab Emirates.

Stability of external and internal implant connections after a fatigue test.

Abstract: Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the torque and detorque values of screw intermediates of external hexagon, internal hexagon, and Morse taper implants in single restorations before and after mechanical cycling. Materials and Methods: The study sample was divided into three groups ( n = 10) as follows: group EH - external hexagon implant, group IH - internal hexagon implant, and group MT - Morse taper implant. Universal abutments were screwed on the implants, and metal crowns were cemented onto the abutment. The samples were submitted to a mechanical testing of 1 million cycles, with a frequency of 8 cycles per second under a 400 N load. The application and registration of the screw torque (T0) and detorque (T1) values of the intermediate were performed before and after the test. The results were statistically evaluated by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Results: There was no difference between the values of T0 and T1 in the intra-group samples. However, the inter-group difference in T0 between the EH (12.8 N cm) and MT (18.6 N cm) groups and in T1 between the EH (10.4 N cm) and IH (13.8 N cm), EH and MT (19.4 N cm), and MT and IH ( P = 0.001) groups were significant. The MT group showed a lower variation of T0 and T1. Conclusion: The internal implants, particularly MT, showed better stability in these cases when used for single restorations.

Correlation between the salivary Streptococcus mutans levels and dental caries experience in adult population of Chandigarh, India.

Abstract: Objectives: To determine the level of Streptococcus mutans ( S. mutans ) in adults of Chandigarh and to correlate the dental caries in these individuals with their S. mutans titers. Materials and Methods: Salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans , using Dentocult SM commercial kits were estimated in 200, 25-35 year old adults (males and females). Streptococcus mutans were detected in 87% of the study sample. Score 2, representing 10 5 -10 6 CFU/ml (Colony Forming Unit) of saliva was found to be most prevalent, i.e. in 80 of 200 adults, followed by score 1, depicting S mutans with 5 CFU/ml, in 56 of 200 adults and score 3, with bacterial titer >10 6 CFU/ml in 38 of 200 adults. Results: Dental caries, recorded using Moller's index, was found to be maximum in individuals with score 3, followed by score 2,1 and 0, thereby showing a positive correlation of dental caries with increasing titers of S. mutans . This correlation was statistically highly significant in males with figures as 8.73 decayed surfaces at score 2 rising to 17.38 at score 3. The mean of DMFT was higher among females than in the males in the present study. Conclusion: The split up data in males and females, showed a positive association between caries experience and salivary S. mutans scores. The results of the study will serve as a baseline data for future planning of preventive programs in adults.

The degree of color change, rebound effect and sensitivity of bleached teeth associated with at-home and power bleaching techniques: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract: Aim: The purpose of the present randomized clinical trial was to evaluate the color change, rebound effect and sensitivity of at-home bleaching with 15% carbamide peroxide and power bleaching using 38% hydrogen peroxide. Materials and Methods: For bleaching techniques, 20 subjects were randomized in a split mouth design (at-home and power bleaching): In maxillary and mandibular anterior teeth ( n = 20). Color was recorded before bleaching, immediately after bleaching, at 2 weeks, 1, 3 and 6 month intervals. Tooth sensitivity was recorded using the visual analog scale. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare both groups regarding bleaching effectiveness (∆E 1 ), rebound effect (∆E 2 ) and color difference between the rebounded tooth color and unbleached teeth (∆E 3 ) while the Wilcoxon compared ∆E within each group. Distribution of sensitivity was evaluated using the Chi-square test (α =0.05). Results: There was no significant difference between groups regarding ∆E 1 and ∆E 3 ( P > 0.05). Even though, ∆E 2 showed no significant difference between groups after bleaching as well as at 2 week, 1 month and 3 month follow-up periods ( P > 0.05). Although, significant difference was found in ∆E 2 ( P 1 and ∆E 3 ( P P > 0.05). Conclusion: Bleaching techniques resulted in identical tooth whitening and post-operative sensitivity using both techniques, but faster color regression was found with power bleaching even though color regression to the baseline of the teeth in both groups was the same after 6 months.

Influence of viscosity and curing mode on degree of conversion of dual-cured resin cements

Abstract: Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the viscosities and curing modes on the degree of conversion (DC) of two resin cements. Methods Eight experimental groups were evaluated (n=5), according to the dual-cured resin cements (Nexus 2/Variolink II), viscosity (low and high) and evaluation time (5 minutes and 24 hours). The resin cements were applied to surface of a horizontal attenuated-total-reflectance unit and were polymerized either with self-cure (SC) or light exposure (XL3000/3M ESPE) for 40 seconds. Infrared spectra were obtained after 5 minutes and 24 hours (Nicolet 520 FT-IR/Thermo Scientific Inc.). DC was calculated according to changes in aliphatic-to-aromatic peak ratios pre- and post-curing. Data (%) were analyzed by 3-way repeated measure ANOVA (curing mode, viscosity and time interval) and Tukey's post-hoc test (P Results The dual-polymerizing mode provided higher DC than auto-polymerization. The DC mean values increased for both resin cements after 24 hours. The low-viscosity resin cements from light-activated or self-cured groups exhibited higher DC than high viscosity version. Conclusion The DC of resin cements was higher for the low viscosity version, following the light-polymerization and when were tested after 24 hours.

Dental subscale of children's fear survey schedule and dental caries prevalence.

Abstract: Objective : To assess the level of fear of dental procedures among 6-12 year school children and correlate the prevalence of dental caries with their dental fears scores. Materials and Methods : The study sample of 444 school children, comprising of 224 girls and 220 boys in the age group of 6-12 years old from a private English medium school were selected. Each student was asked to independently complete a Children's Fear Survey Schedule - Dental Subscale (CFSS-DS) questionnaire. Children having a score of ≥ 38 were included in the ''dental fear'' group while those scoring Results : Fear scores were highest for ''Injections,'' (3.76 ± 0.68) ''Choking,'' (3.48 ± 0.63) and ''Dentist drilling'' (2.88 ± 0.69). The overall mean score of CFSS-DS in our study was 37.0 ± 8.89, mean score of DMFT and DMFS were 0.58 ± 0.74 and 0.73 ± 1.09, respectively. Mean score of deft and defs were 4.40 ± 2.34 and 7.28 ± 5.49, respectively. Conclusion: The study showed the prevalence of dental fear in 6-12 year old children and there was no statistically significant co-relation between the level of dental fear and dental caries in these children.

Prevalence of Elongated styloid process in saudi population of Aseer Region

Abstract: Objective: The study was performed to investigate the prevalence, morphology and calcification pattern of elongated styloid process in Saudi population of Aseer (Southern) region and its relation to gender and sub‑age groups. Materials and Methods: This study was analyzed digital panoramic radiographs of 1,162 adults. Any radiograph with questionable styloid process was excluded from the study. The apparent length of the styloid process was measured by a single experienced dental and maxillofacial Radiologist. The elongated styloid process was classified with the radiographic appearance based on the morphology and calcification pattern. The data were analyzed by using Student’s t‑test and Chi‑square test with P value less than 0.05. Results: A total of 1,085 Digital panoramic radiographs showed elongated styloid process of which 686 (63.2%) were noticed in males and 399 (36.8%) were noticed in female patients. There was a statistical significant difference noticed in the mean difference of elongated styloid process between 20‑29, 50‑59 and 60 years and above sub‑age groups. The elongated styloid process was more prevalent in elderly aged male patients (P < 0.05). Type I morphology with calcified out line (a) was the most frequent pattern of calcification noticed in the present study. Conclusion: The panoramic radiographs are economical, easily accessible and useful diagnostic tool for early detection of elongated styloid process with or without symptoms. However, studies with larger sample size would further help to assess the prevalence of this elongated styloid process in Saudi population of various other regions.

Does the temperature of beverages affect the surface roughness, hardness, and color stability of a composite resin?

Abstract: Objective: To investigate the effect of beverages' temperature on the surface roughness, hardness, and color stability of a composite resin. Materials and Methods: Fifty specimens of the Filtek Z250 composite (3M ESPE, Dental Products, St.Paul, MN, USA) were prepared and initial roughness, microhardness, and color were measured. Then the specimens were randomly divided into five groups of 10 specimens each: Coffee at 70°C, coffee at 37°C, cola at 10°C, cola at 37°C, and artificial saliva (control). After the samples were subjected to 15 min × 3 cycles per day of exposure to the solutions for 30 days, the final measurements were recorded. Results: After immersion in beverages, the artificial saliva group showed hardness values higher than those of the other groups ( P P E measurements were examined, the 70°C coffee group showed the highest color change among all the groups ( P Conclusion: High-temperature solutions caused alterations in certain properties of composites, such as increased color change, although they did not affect the hardness or roughness of the composite resin material tested.

Antimicrobial efficiency of photodynamic therapy with different irradiation durations.

Abstract: Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial efficiency of PDT and the effect of different irradiation durations on the antimicrobial efficiency of PDT. Materials and Methods: Sixty freshly extracted human teeth with a single root were decoronated and distributed into five groups. The control group received no treatment. Group 1 was treated with a 5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) solution. Groups 2, 3, and 4 were treated with methylene-blue photosensitizer and 660-nm diode laser irradiation for 1, 2, and 4 min, respectively. The root canals were instrumented and irrigated with NaOCl, ethylenediamine-tetraacetic acid, and a saline solution, followed by autoclaving. All the roots were inoculated with an Enterococcus faecalis suspension and brain heart infusion broth and stored for 21 days to allow biofilm formation. Microbiological data on microorganism load were collected before and after the disinfection procedures and analyzed with the Wilcoxon ranged test, the Kruskal-Wallis test, and the Dunn's test. Results: The microorganism load in the control group increased. The lowest reduction in the microorganism load was observed in the 1-min irradiation group (Group 2 = 99.8%), which was very close to the results of the other experimental groups (99.9%). There were no significant differences among the groups. Conclusions: PDT is as effective as conventional 5% NaOCl irrigation with regard to antimicrobial efficiency against Enterococcus faecalis .

Risk factors and socioeconomic condition effects on periodontal and dental health: A pilot study among adults over fifty years of age.

Abstract: Objective: Observational studies on the association among systemic/general and oral cavity indices, tooth loss, periodontal conditions, and socioeconomic inequalities are to be still performed in the population of Southern Europe. This study aims to determine the extent of this relationship among Italian healthy adults 50 years of age and above. Materials and Methods: Socioeconomic and lifestyle characteristics, cardiovascular indicators, and systemic indices were examined by contrasting the dental indices among adult people of Northern Italy. Data were processed through correlation analysis, and multivariate analysis was carried out using seemingly unrelated regressions. Results: A total of 118 adults 50 years of age and above, after anamnesis, underwent systemic and dental examination. Their socioeconomic status was found to be inversely associated only with smoking and dental parameters. Unexpected outcomes between lifestyle and risk factors were detected. The statistical analysis showed an uneven correlation among dental indices and between those indices and the socioeconomic status, such as, a periodontal condition, apparently free from influences, unusually became worse as the socioeconomic status enhanced. Conclusions: The study outcomes indicate a relationship between tooth loss and conservative endodontic therapy, but they result in alternative choices. Nevertheless, the socioeconomic status has an inverse relationship with tooth loss and conservative endodontic therapy, but a direct relation with worsening of the periodontal condition. This pilot study highlights a need for the public health administration to adopt a socioeconomic assessment not only based on the household income, but also to accordingly improve its therapeutic course.

The genetic basis of dental anomalies and its relation to orthodontics

Abstract: The interruption of odontogenesis by any etiological factor may result in dental anomalies. Apart from the environmental factors, the impact of genetics in dental anomalies was found to be a factor in different levels. Many authors had questioned a common genetic defect resulting in different phenotypic conditions such as absent, malformed, malposed or ectopic teeth. Because the multidisciplinary treatment of these dental anomalies such as hypodontia, impaction etc., involves orthodontic intervention, orthodontists must be aware of the etiology and possible correlative conditions with dental anomalies.

Prevention of demineralization around orthodontic brackets using two different fluoride varnishes.

Abstract: Objective: This in-vitro study was done to evaluate the effects of two different seal materials, Duraflor™ and Enamel Pro® Varnish, on enamel demineralization adjacent to orthodontic fixed appliances.

Lasers in orthodontics.

Abstract: Many types of dental lasers are currently available that can be efficiently used for soft and hard tissue applications in the field of orthodontics. For achieving the desired effects in the target tissue, knowledge of laser characteristics such as power, wavelength and timing, is necessary. Laser therapy is advantageous because it often avoids bleeding, can be pain free, is non-invasive and is relatively quick. The high cost is its primary disadvantage. It is very important to take the necessary precautions to prevent possible tissue damage when using laser dental systems. Here, we reviewed the main types and characteristics of laser systems used in dental practice and discuss the applications of lasers in orthodontics, harmful effects and laser system safety.

Investigation of third molar impaction in Turkish orthodontic patients: Prevalence, depth and angular positions

Abstract: Objective: We aimed to investigate the prevalence, distribution, angular position, and depth of third molar impaction in a Turkish orthodontic patient population. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the panoramic radiographs, intraoral photographs, and dental casts of 207 patients (62 men and 145 women; age 20-39 years) who had undergone orthodontic treatment at a university department of orthodontics for impacted third molars (ITMs). A comprehensive chart review of all subjects was conducted. Patient and treatment-related data were recorded in a digital database for comparative analysis. Results: The prevalence of ITMs was 54.1%, and no statistically significant gender differences were evident (61.3% in men and 51.0% in women; P = 0.23). The frequency of maxillary ITMs was 49.3% (148 of 300 teeth) while that of mandibular ITMs was 50.7% (152 of 300 teeth). The most frequently observed angulations of impaction were mesioangular for the mandible (65.1%), and distoangular for the maxilla (64.2%). Of all the ITMs analysed, 61% were partially buried in bone and 39% were completely buried. Conclusions: Third molar impaction was evident in 54.1% of a group of Turkish orthodontic patients aged 20-39 years, and there was no statistically significant gender bias. Mesioangular and distoangular inclinations were the most common in the mandible and the maxilla, respectively.

The effect of tooth bleaching on the shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets using self-etching primer systems.

Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of 10% carbamide peroxide and 38% hydrogen peroxide bleaching agents on the shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets using self-etching primer systems.

Hybridization quality and bond strength of adhesive systems according to interaction with dentin.

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the hybridization quality and bond strength of adhesives to dentin. Materials and Methods: Ten human molars were ground to expose the dentin and then sectioned in four tooth-quarters. They were randomly divided into 5 groups according to the adhesive used: Two single-step self-etch adhesives - Adper Prompt (ADP) and Xeno III (XE), two two-step self-etching primer systems - Clearfil SE Bond (SE) and Adhe SE (ADSE), and one one-step etch-and-rinse system - Adper Single Bond (SB). Resin composite (Filtek Z250) crown buildups were made on the bonded surfaces and incrementally light-cured for 20 s. The restored tooth-quarters were stored in water at 37΀C for 24 h and then sectioned into beams (0.8 mm 2 in cross-section). Maximal microtensile bond strength (μ-TBS) was recorded (0.5 mm/min in crosshead speed). The results were submitted to one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Thirty additional teeth were used to investigate the hybridization quality by SEM using silver methenamine or ammoniacal silver nitrate dyes. Results: SE reached significantly higher μ-TBS (P 0.05), and between SB and ADP (P > 0.05); ADSE and XE were significantly higher than SB and ADP (P < 0.05). The bonding interface of SB showed the most intense silver uptake. SE and ADSE showed more favorable hybridization quality than that observed for ADP and XE. Conclusions: The bond strength and hybridization quality were affected by the interaction form of the adhesives with dentin. The hybridization quality was essential to improve the immediate μ-TBS to dentin.

Ceramic veneers with minimum preparation.

Abstract: The aim of this article is to describe the possibility of improving dental esthetics with low-thickness glass ceramics without major tooth preparation for patients with small to moderate anterior dental wear and little discoloration. For this purpose, a carefully defined treatment planning and a good communication between the clinician and the dental technician helped to maximize enamel preservation, and offered a good treatment option. Moreover, besides restoring esthetics, the restorative treatment also improved the function of the anterior guidance. It can be concluded that the conservative use of minimum thickness ceramic laminate veneers may provide satisfactory esthetic outcomes while preserving the dental structure.