Minerva stomatologica 

About: Minerva stomatologica is an academic journal. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Population & Implant. It has an ISSN identifier of 0026-4970. Over the lifetime, 1871 publications have been published receiving 11759 citations.

Technological characteristics and clinical indications of piezoelectric bone surgery.

Abstract: Piezoelectric bone surgery, also simply known as piezosurgery, is a new technique for osteotomy and osteoplasty utilizing an innovative ultrasonic surgical apparatus. This technique was created and developed in response to the need to reach major levels of precision and safety in bone surgery, as compared to that available by the usual manual and motorized instruments. The instrument which offers these results, known as the Mectron Piezosurgery Device, is characterized by piezoelectric ultrasonic vibrations of a frequency of 29 kHz and a range between 60/200 Hz. Due to their characteristics, the microvibrations allow a selective cut of only mineralized structures without damaging soft tissues, which remain undamaged even in case of accidental contact. The micrometric vibration ensures precise cutting action and at the same time maintains a blood-free site because of the physical phenomenon of cavitation. The micrometric vibration makes the instrument manageable and permits major interoperative control with a consequent increase in safety especially in anatomically difficult areas. The absence of macrovibrations makes the instrument more manageable and allows greater interoperative control with a significant increase in the cutting safety in the more difficult anatomical cutting zones. Given its innovative nature, piezosurgery distinguishes itself as being different from the conventional techniques utilised in bone surgery. Consequently, it requires different surgical skill. To master the right surgical skill it is essential to demonstrate an adequate learning curve.

Oral lichen planus: a review.

Abstract: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common chronic inflammatory disorder thought to have a low risk of associated malignancy. A genetic predisposition linked to Th1 cytokine polymorphisms may promote the T cell-mediated immunological response to an induced antigenic change that is supposed to lead to OLP lesions. Some putative etiologic factors, mainly amalgam restorations and hepatitis C virus, have been studied in detail. The diagnosis of OLP can be made from the clinical features if they are sufficiently characteristic, but biopsy is recommended to confirm the diagnosis, exclude dysplasia and malignancy and if active treatment is required. The management of OLP is mainly aimed at controlling the symptoms and topical immunomodulators such as powerful corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors have been used. However, their long-term effects need to be better explored and understood. Current therapeutic data is probably still insufficient to make detailed recommendations with regard to the specific dosage, formulation, mode of delivery or length of therapy.

Chlorhexidine (CHX) in dentistry: state of the art.

Abstract: Chlorhexidine (CHX) is one of the most commonly prescribed antiseptic agents in the dental field. It has a long-lasting antibacterial activity with a broad-spectrum of action and it has been shown to reduce plaque, gingival inflammation and bleeding. Its use is considered a powerful adjuvant to mechanical oral hygiene (brushing and flossing), especially in those cases in which it cannot be performed correctly. Available as mouthwash, gel, aerosol, spray and disks, CHX is considered a safe compound, with minimal and transitory local and systemic side effects. Data support its periodic use as an adjuvant to normal brushing and flossing in subjects unable to maintain proper oral hygiene due to physical and/or mental impairment, or lack of motivation, or decreased salivary rate. CHX is also a useful alternative to mechanical oral hygiene procedures in those cases in which they are contraindicated, e.g. after a surgical procedure, or as a preoperative rinse before procedures in which use of a dental dam is not possible. The aim of this article is to offer a complete review of literature regarding the characteristics, the applications and the problems associated with the use of chlorhexidine in the dental field.

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: a literature review

Abstract: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a complete or partial airway obstruction that can cause significant physiologic disturbance with various clinical impacts. The etiology is multifactorial and its clinical manifestations are night snoring, headache when patient wakes up, day-time sleepiness and degrease of cognitive performance. Some recent international studies suggest that the OSAS prevalence is 2-4% in men and 1-2% in women of average age. The aim of this work was presenting a literature review in Medline concerning Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. A review of the articles ranging from 1980 to 2014 has been done. Over 2000 articles were found and those which give useful information about etiology, diagnosis, therapy and found results after the study were selected and evaluated. In literature there is no unanimous opinion on the treatment of OSAS. According to the majority of the authors it should be multidisciplinary. The choice of therapy is predicated on the etiology, severity and natural history of the increased upper airway resistance. The importance of a praecox diagnosis and orthodontic therapy in order to re-establish normal function is underlined, since OSAS is linked with high risk of hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, daytime sleepiness, home and work-related accidents, with consequent worsening of life quality.