Search

Aim The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy of anti-plaque chemical formulations for managing gingivitis, in 6-month, home-use, randomised clinical trials ( RCTs). Material and Methods A protocol was designed, including inclusion and exclusion criteria to identify RCTs assessing gingival and/or bleeding indices. Electronic and hand-searches identified relevant papers, which were screened and evaluated for inclusion. Full-papers were retrieved and relevant information was extracted (also plaque indices), including quality and risk of bias. Mean treatment effects were calculated to obtain weighted mean differences ( WMD) and 95% confidence intervals. Results After the process of screening and selection, 87 articles with 133 comparisons, were included in the review. The additional effects of the tested products were statistically significant in terms of Löe & Silness gingival index (46 comparisons, WMD −0.217), modified gingival index ( n = 23, −0.415), gingivitis severity index ( n = 26, −14.939%) or bleeding index ( n = 23, −7.626%), with significant heterogeneity. For plaque, additional effects were found for Turesky (66 studies, WMD −0.475), Silness & Löe ( n = 26, −0.109), and plaque severity ( n = 12, −23.4%) indices, with significant heterogeneity. Conclusion Within the limitations of the present study, formulations with specific agents for chemical plaque control provide statistically significant improvements in terms of gingival, bleeding and plaque indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess methods, quality and outcomes of systematic reviews (SRs) conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of root coverage (RC) procedures in the treatment of recession-type defects (RTD). Methods: MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched up to and including April 2010 to identify SRs investigating the effectiveness/efficacy of surgical interventions for the treatment of patients with RTD. Searching was conducted independently by two reviewers, and data extraction was based on the methodological criteria applied and on the effects of interventions reported by each SR. The checklist proposed by Glenny and colleagues, the Overview Quality Assessment Questionnaire and the "Assessment of Multiple systematic Reviews", instrument were used to assess the quality of SRs. Additionally, the methodological criteria applied by included reviews were compared with those proposed by the Cochrane Collaboration. Results: Search strategy identified 716 potentially eligible articles, of which 12 papers regarding 10 SRs were included in the study. Results from different SRs showed that subepithelial connective tissue grafts associated or not to coronally advanced flaps can be used to reduce recession depth and improve the width of keratinized tissue. All quality assessment tools showed that most of the SRs were of good methodological quality, but they also highlighted key points that could be improved in future reviews. Only two SRs followed in full the guidelines proposed by the Cochrane Collaboration. Conclusions: All SRs agree that RC may be anticipated by different surgical procedures. However, differences in the methodological quality between reviews were quite evident, and thus making a clear indication that there is a need of standardization of the methods that will be applied by future SRs. As a result, a standardized checklist for reporting SRs was proposed by the authors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To report the evidence on the effect of mechanical and/or chemical plaque control in the simultaneous management of gingivitis and caries. Material and Methods A protocol was designed to identify randomized ( RCTs) and controlled ( CCTs) clinical trials, cohort studies and prospective case series ( PCS), with at least 6 months of follow-up, reporting on plaque, gingivitis and caries. Relevant information was extracted from full papers, including quality and risk of bias. Meta-analyses were performed whenever possible. Results After the screening of 1,373 titles, 15 RCTs, 10 CCTs and 2 PCS were included. Low to moderate evidence support that combined professional and self-performed mechanical plaque control significantly reduces standardized plaque index [ n = 4; weighted mean difference ( WMD) = 1.294; 95% CI (0.445; 2.144); p = 0.003] and gingivitis scores [ n = 4; WMD = 1.728; 95% CI (0.631; 2.825); p = 0.002]. The addition of fluoride to mechanical plaque control is relevant for caries management [ n = 5; WMD = 1.159; 95% CI (0.145; 2.172); p = 0.025] while chlorhexidine rinses are relevant for gingivitis. Conclusion Mechanical plaque control procedures are effective in reducing plaque and gingivitis. The addition of fluoride to mechanical plaque control is significant for caries management. Chlorhexidine rinse has a positive effect on gingivitis and inconclusive role in caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) was to compare the efficacy of different anti-plaque chemical agents, in 6-month, home-use, randomized clinical trials (RCTs), in terms of plaque index (PlI) changes. Material and Methods RCTs assessing PlI were identified, screened, and evaluated for inclusion. Relevant information was extracted, and quality and risk of bias were assessed. Mean differences between baseline-end were calculated to obtain weighted mean differences and 95% confidence intervals. NMA protocols were applied to assess direct and indirect comparisons among products using Turesky PlI. Results Eighty-three papers were included: 49 examined dentifrices, 32 mouthrinses and 2 both. The NMA analysed 51 studies including data from 4242 and 4180 subjects for dentifrices and mouthrinses respectively. For dentifrices, triclosan-copolymer and chlorhexidine showed the greatest effect, with significant differences when compared with stannous fluoride. For mouthrinses, essential oils and chlorhexidine showed the greatest effect, with significant differences when compared with delmopinol, alexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride. Conclusion Within the limitations of this study (including the severe imbalance in the amount of evidence), dentifrices containing triclosan-copolymer or chlorhexidine and mouthrinses containing essential oils or chlorhexidine showed the greatest effect on PlI scores as assessed with NMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To update the existing scientific evidence on the efficacy of local antimicrobials as adjuncts to subgingival debridement in the treatment of chronic periodontitis. Material and Methods Fifty-six papers were selected, reporting data from 52 different investigations. All the studies reported changes in probing pocket depth ( PPD) and clinical attachment level ( CAL) and most in plaque index (PlI) and/or bleeding on probing ( BOP). Meta-analyses were performed with the data retrieved from the studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria. Results The overall effect of the subgingival application of antimicrobials was statistically significant ( p = 0.000) for both changes in PPD and CAL with a weighted mean difference ( WMD) of −0.407 and −0.310 mm respectively. No significant differences occurred for changes in BOP and PlI. Subgingival application of tetracycline fibres, sustained released doxycycline and minocycline demonstrated a significant benefit in PPD reduction ( WMD between 0.5 and 0.7 mm). The rest of the tested outcomes demonstrated a high heterogeneity. The local application of chlorhexidine and metronidazole showed a minimal effect when compared with placebo ( WMD between 0.1 and 0.4 mm). Conclusions The scientific evidence supports the adjunctive use of local antimicrobials to debridement in deep or recurrent periodontal sites, mostly when using vehicles with proven sustained release of the antimicrobial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To systematically evaluate the efficacy of chlorhexidine ( CHX) mouthrinses on plaque, gingival inflammation and staining in gingivitis patients. Material & Methods Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched through April 2011. Randomized controlled clinical trials comparing CHX to placebo/control mouthrinses or oral hygiene ( OH) ≥4 weeks were included. Results Among 1355 titles, 30 publications fulfilled the selection criteria. Meta-analysis ( MA) showed significant weighted mean differences ( WMD) favouring CHX. This was −0.39 [95% CI: −0.70; −0.08] for the Plaque Index Silness & Löe, −0.67 [95% CI: −0.82; −0.52] for the Plaque-Index Quigley & Hein ( PIQH), −0.32 [95% CI: −0.42; −0.23] for the Gingival Index ( GI), −0.08 [95% CI: −0.10; −0.05] for the bleeding aspect of the GI, −0.21 [95% CI: −0.37; −0.04] for the Papillary BIeeding Index, −0.16 [95% CI: −0.26; −0.07] for Bleeding on Marginal Probing and 0.91 [95% CI: 0.12;1.70] for the Lobene Stain Index. MA of studies with a low risk of author-estimated bias showed a WMD of −0.68 [95% CI: −0.85; −0.51] for the PIQH and −0.24 [95% CI: −0.29; −0.20] for the GI in favour of CHX. Relative to control, the reduction with CHX for plaque was 33% and for gingivitis 26%. CHX rinsing groups demonstrated significantly more staining. Conclusions In gingivitis patients, CHX mouthrinses together with OH versus placebo- or control mouthrinse provide significant reductions in plaque and gingivitis scores, but a significant increase in staining score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To answer the following PICO question: In systemically healthy humans with peri‐implant mucositis, what is the efficacy of patient‐performed or administered (by prescription) measures used adjunctively to submarginal instrumentation, as compared to submarginal instrumentation alone or combined with a negative control, in terms of reducing bleeding on probing (BOP), in randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) with at least 3 months of follow‐up? Materials and Methods: Three databases were searched until April 2022. Weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and predictive intervals were calculated. Results: Sixteen parallel RCTs corresponding to 14 studies with low/moderate risk of bias were included. Test groups showed greater reductions in BOP (%) than control groups (nstudies = 16; npatients = 650; WMD = 14.25%; 95% CI [9.06–19.45]; p <.001; I2 = 98.7%). The greatest WMD in BOP reductions (%) were obtained by antiseptics (ns = 5; np = 229; WMD = 22.72%; 95% CI [19.40–26.04]; p < 0.001; I2 = 94.8%), followed by probiotics (ns = 6; np = 260; WMD = 12.11%; 95% CI [3.20–21.03]; p =.008; I2 = 93.3%) and systemic antibiotics (ns = 3; np = 101; WMD = 5.97%; 95% CI [1.34–10.59]; p =.012; I2 = 58.1%). Disease resolution was scarcely reported (n = 6). Conclusions: Significant clinical improvements can be obtained when professional submarginal instrumentation is combined with patient‐performed or administered (by prescription) adjunctive measures, although a complete disease resolution may not be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the clinical non‐inferiority of a 3‐day protocol of systemic antibiotics adjunctive to subgingival instrumentation (SI) compared with a 7‐day‐protocol in patients with Stage III/IV Grade C periodontitis. Materials and Methods: Fifty systemically healthy patients (32.7 ± 4.3 years) with aggressive periodontitis (AgP; Stage III/IV Grade C periodontitis) were treated by SI and adjunctive amoxicillin and metronidazole and were randomly assigned to Group A: (n = 25) 500 mg antibiotics (AB) 3 times a day for 3 days, followed by placebo 3 times a day for 4 days, or Group B: (n = 25) 500 mg AB 3 times a day for 7 days. Clinical, microbial, and immunological parameters were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months, and patient‐related outcomes were assessed after 2 weeks. The primary outcome variable was the number of residual sites with pocket depth (PD) ≥6 mm at 6 months. Results: For the primary outcome variable (the number of residual sites with PD ≥6 mm at 6 months), the null hypothesis was rejected and non‐inferiority of the 3‐day AB protocol compared with the 7‐day AB protocol was demonstrated (the upper limits of the 95% confidence interval for intention to treat analysis: [−2.572; 1.050] and per protocol analysis: [−2.523; 1.318] were lower than the assumed margin of Δ = 3.1). Comparable clinical improvements were obtained for all parameters with both antibiotic protocols (p >.05). All investigated periodontopathogens and pro‐inflammatory host‐derived markers were statistically significantly reduced without differences between the treatments (p >.05). Conclusions: These findings indicate that in patients with AgP (Stage III/IV Grade C periodontitis), a 3‐day systemic administration of amoxicillin and metronidazole adjunctive to SI may lead to non‐inferior clinical outcomes after 6‐months with fewer adverse events compared with a 7‐day‐protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To compare connective tissue graft (CTG) with collagen matrix (CMX) in terms of increase in buccal soft tissue profile (BSP) at 1 year when applied at single implant sites. Materials and Methods: Patients with a single tooth gap in the anterior maxilla and horizontal mucosa defect were enrolled in a multi‐centre randomized controlled trial. All sites had a bucco‐palatal bone dimension of at least 6 mm, received a single implant and an immediate implant restoration using a full digital workflow. Sites were randomly allocated to the control (CTG) or test group (CMX) to increase buccal soft tissue thickness. The primary outcome was the increase in BSP at 1 year when compared with the pre‐operative situation based on superimposed digital surface models. The changes in BSP over time were registered at a buccal area of interest reaching from 0.5 mm below the soft tissue margin to 4 mm more apical. Secondary outcomes included patient‐reported, clinical and aesthetic outcomes. Results: Thirty patients were included per group (control: 50% females, mean age 50.1; test: 53% females, mean age 48.2). The increase in BSP at 1 year was 0.98 mm (98.3% confidence interval [CI]: 0.75–1.20) for CTG and 0.57 mm (98.3% CI: 0.34 to 0.79) for CMX. The mean difference of 0.41 mm (98.3% CI: 0.12 to 0.69) in favour of CTG was significant (p <.001). Based on an arbitrarily chosen threshold for success of 0.75 mm increase in BSP, 89.7% of the patients in the control group and 10% of the patients in the test group were successfully treated (odds ratio = 77.90; 95% CI: 13.52 to 448.80; p <.001). Sites treated with CMX demonstrated 0.89 mm (98.3% CI: 0.49 to 1.30) more shrinkage between postop and 1 year than sites treated with CTG. In addition, CMX resulted in significantly more marginal bone loss (0.39 mm; 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.74; p =.026) than CTG. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of patients' aesthetic satisfaction (p =.938), probing depth (p =.917), plaque (p =.354), bleeding on probing (p =.783), midfacial recession (p =.915), Pink Esthetic Score (p =.121) and Mucosal Scarring Index (p =.965). Conclusions: CTG remains the gold standard to increase soft tissue thickness at implant sites. Clinicians need to outweigh the benefits of CMX against considerable resorption of the graft. This study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04210596). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This randomized placebo‐controlled clinical trial evaluated the effects of multispecies probiotic containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001™, Lactobacillus paracasei Lpc‐37®, and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp lactis HN019™ as an adjunct to mechanical debridement (MD) on changes in bleeding on probing (BOP) in edentulous patients with peri‐implant mucositis (PiM). Materials and Methods: Patients were randomly assigned to test (probiotic) or control (placebo) groups. All sites with PiM received MD and topical gel application (probiotic or placebo) at baseline and 12 weeks. After initial MD, patients consumed probiotic or placebo capsules twice a day for 12 weeks. Clinical (modified sulcus bleeding index [mSBI]; modified plaque index [mPI]; probing depth [PD]; and BOP) and immunological parameters were collected at baseline and after 12 and 24 weeks. Data were statistically analysed (p <.05). Results: Thirty‐six patients with PiM were recruited. The test group presented higher prevalence (p <.05) of cases of restored peri‐implant health at 24 weeks than did the control group (72.2% and 33.3%, respectively). No significant difference was observed between test (n = 18) and control (n = 18) groups for mPI and PD. mSBI %—score 0 was higher in the test group than in the control group at 24 weeks (p <.05). When compared with baseline, both groups presented reduced BOP at 12 and 24 weeks (p <.05). BOP was lower in the test group than in the control group at 12 (mean difference = −14.54%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −28.87 to 0.22; p =.0163) and 24 (mean difference = −12.56%; 95% CI = −26.51 to 1.37; p =.0090) weeks. At 24 weeks, only the test group presented lower levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α than those at baseline (p <.05). Conclusions: The multispecies probiotic (administered locally and systemically) containing L. rhamnosus HN001™, L. paracasei Lpc‐37®, and B. lactis HN019™ as an adjunct to repeated MD promotes additional clinical and immunological benefits in the treatment of PiM in edentulous patients (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04187222). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the presence and characteristics of spin (a distorted interpretation to make research findings seem favourable) in abstracts of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in periodontology and oral implantology, and to explore its associated factors and influence on the subsequent literature. Materials and methods: PubMed was searched to identify recent RCTs in periodontology and oral implantology, whose primary outcome was non‐significant. Spin in abstracts was assessed and categorized according to pre‐determined spin strategies. The associations between study characteristics and the presence/severity of spin were analysed using multivariable logistic regressions. Results: 196 abstracts were included, 137 (69.9%) of which had spin. 57 (29.1%) abstracts had spin in the Results section, and 126 (64.3%) had spin in the Conclusion section. The main spin strategies in the Results and Conclusion sections were focusing on secondary outcomes (16.3%) and focusing on within‐group comparisons (28.6%), respectively. The presence of spin was associated with number of centres (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.11–0.73; p =.009), while its severity was associated with topic (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.08–0.70; p =.009). Conclusions: The frequency of spin is relatively high among published RCT abstracts in periodontology and oral implantology. Findings reported in these abstracts need to be interpreted with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of a 0.03% chlorhexidine and 0.05% cetylpyridinium chloride mouth rinse, as an adjunct to professionally and patient‐administered mechanical plaque removal, in the treatment of peri‐implant mucositis (PiM). Material and Methods: Patients displaying PiM in, at least, one implant were included in this randomized, double‐blinded, clinical trial. Subjects received professional prophylaxis (baseline and 6 months) and were instructed to regular oral hygiene practices and to rinse, twice daily, with the test or placebo mouth rinses, during one year. Clinical, radiographic and microbiological outcomes were evaluated at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Disease resolution was defined as absence of bleeding on probing (BOP). Data were analysed by repeated measures ANOVA, Student's t and chi‐square tests. Results: Fifty‐four patients were included and 46 attended the final visit (22 in control and 24 in test group). In the test group, there was a 24.49% greater reduction in BOP at the buccal sites (95% confidence interval [3.65–45.34%]; p = 0.002) than in controls. About 58.3% of test implants and 50% controls showed healthy peri‐implant tissues at final visit (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The use of the test mouth rinse demonstrated some adjunctive benefits in the treatment of PiM. Complete disease resolution could not be achieved in every case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To evaluate and compare clinical and histological changes after ridge preservation procedures with those of spontaneous healing. Materials and Methods Ninety patients were enrolled in the present randomized controlled clinical trial and underwent single-tooth extraction in the premolar/molar areas. Thirty sites were grafted with collagenated cortico-cancellous ( coll), 30 sites with cortical ( cort) porcine bone and 30 sites underwent natural healing. Primary (vertical and horizontal bone changes after 3 months) and secondary outcomes (histomorphometric after 3 months) were evaluated at implant placement. Results The vertical bone changes at the grafted sockets were significantly ( p < 0.0001) lower (0.30 mm for cort group and 0.57 mm for coll group) when compared to non-grafted sockets (2.10 mm for nat group). Moreover, the width reduction of the coll (0.93 mm) and cort (1.33 mm) groups was significantly lower ( p < 0.0001) than the non-grafted group (3.60 mm). The analysis of subgroups attested that when premolar and molar sites were compared, the buccal bone loss appeared to be dependent both on tooth position and grafting material employed. Conclusion The ridge preservation procedures had significantly better outcomes when compared to natural healing. The biomaterials did not differ for maintenance of bone width; even though, the bone height seemed to be better preserved with the cortical porcine bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To assess patient-reported outcome measures ( PROMs), aesthetics and stability of root coverage procedures from a previous 6-month RCT after 1 year. Material & Methods Forty-five patients (90 recessions) had received a coronally advanced flap ( CAF = control) only or a xenogeneic collagen matrix in addition ( CAF + CMX = test). Visual analogue scales ( VAS) and questionnaires were used for PROMs and the root coverage aesthetic score ( RES) for professional aesthetic evaluations. Results VAS scores (patient satisfaction) amounted to 8.58 ± 1.86 (test) versus 8.38 ± 2.46 (control). Six patients preferred CAF + CMX concerning surgical procedure and aesthetics, six preferred CAF and 29 were equally satisfied. RES was 7.85 ± 2.42 for the test group versus 7.34 ± 2.90 for the controls. Root coverage ( RC) was 76.28% for test and 75.05% for control defects. The mean increase in keratinized tissue width was higher in test (from 1.97 to 3.02 mm) than in controls (from 2.00 to 2.64 mm) ( p = 0.0413). Likewise, test sites showed more gain in gingival thickness (0.52 mm) than control sites (0.27 mm) ( p = 0.0023). Compared to 6 months, clinical outcomes were stable. Conclusions Results for PROMs, RES and RC did not significantly differ between treatment groups. Thickness and width of keratinized tissue were enhanced following CAF + CMX compared to CAF alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Quality of reporting randomized controlled trials ( RCTs) in periodontology has been poor. Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials guidelines and an extension for non-pharmacologic trials ( CONSORT- NPE), were introduced to aid in improving this. Aims The aim of this study was to assess the quality of reporting in periodontology, changes over the last 14 years, and adherence to CONSORT- NPE. Methods Randomized controlled trials in humans, published in three periodontal journals, from 2013 to 2015 were included. Search was conducted through Medline, Embase and hand searching. Results One hundred and seventy-three full-text articles included. Two reviewers screened for reporting quality (κ = 0.69, 95% CI 0.60-0.76). 84% of studies ( n = 145) described randomization methods, 74% ( n = 128) highlighted examiner blinding and 87% ( n = 151) accounted for patients at study conclusion. Patient and caregiver blinding was addressed in 50% ( n = 70) and 50% ( n = 27) of studies respectively. 64% ( n = 110) described adequate allocation concealment. Compared with Montenegro et al. (2002, Journal of Dental Research, 81, 866), improvements seen in describing randomization (2002, 16.5%; 2016, 84%), allocation concealment (2002, 6.5%; 2016, 64%), caregiver masking (2002, 17%; 2016, 50%). CONSORT- NPE; 62% ( n = 107) had detailed explanations of all treatments, 88% ( n = 152) lacked protocols for adherence of caregivers' to an intervention. Only 17% ( n = 29) described caregivers' expertise and case volume. Conclusions Substantial improvements have occurred. Attention is required for statistical analysis of patient losses and masking. CONSORT- NPE aspects were poorly reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The aim of this study was to assess the clinical efficacy of coronally advanced flap ( CAF) with or without connective tissue graft ( CTG) for the treatment of multiple adjacent gingival recessions in the upper arch. Material and Methods Thirty-two patients with a total of 74 gingival recessions were randomly allocated to the two groups. Outcome measures, collected by a blind examiner, included complete root coverage ( CRC), recession reduction (RecRed), keratinized tissue ( KT) gain, increase in gingival thickness (GT), patient satisfaction and root coverage esthetic score ( RES). Results An interaction between treatment and baseline GT was detected. At 1 year, CAF + CTG resulted in better outcomes in terms of CRC ( p = 0.0016) and RecRed ( p < 0.0001) than CAF alone at sites with thin gingiva (thickness ≤ 0.8 mm). No difference was found between CAF alone and CAF + CTG at sites with thick gingiva (>0.8 mm). CAF resulted in higher aesthetic scores ( RES) than CAF + CTG at sites with thick gingiva. CAF + CTG was associated with greater KT gain ( p < 0.0001) and greater post-operative morbidity ( p < 0.0001). Conclusion Connective tissue graft under CAF results in increased probability of CRC only at sites with thin baseline gingiva. CAF alone is associated with similar clinical outcomes and better aesthetics at sites with thick baseline gingiva. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This randomized clinical trial aimed at comparing radiological, clinical and microbial effects of surgical treatment of peri-implantitis alone or in combination with enamel matrix derivative ( EMD). Methods Twenty-six subjects were treated with open flap debridement and decontamination of the implant surfaces with gauze and saline preceding adjunctive EMD or no EMD. Bone level ( BL) change was primary outcome and secondary outcomes were changes in pocket depth ( PD), plaque, pus, bleeding and the microbiota of the peri-implant biofilm analyzed by the Human Oral Microbe Identification Microarray over a time period of 12 months. Results In multivariate modelling, increased marginal BL at implant site was significantly associated with EMD, the number of osseous walls in the peri-implant bone defect and a Gram+/aerobic microbial flora, whereas reduced BL was associated with a Gram−/anaerobic microbial flora and presence of bleeding and pus, with a cross-validated predictive capacity ( Q2) of 36.4%. Similar, but statistically non-significant, trends were seen for BL, PD, plaque, pus and bleeding in univariate analysis. Conclusion Adjunctive EMD to surgical treatment of peri-implantitis was associated with prevalence of Gram+/aerobic bacteria during the follow-up period and increased marginal BL 12 months after treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To evaluate the effect of 3 or 7 days systemic administration of amoxicillin ( AMX) and metronidazole ( MET) or placebo as adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment in severe chronic periodontitis patients. Methods One hundred and two patients with severe chronic periodontitis [e.g. ≥1 site with probing pocket depth ( PD) ≥ 6 mm per quadrant] were randomly divided into three equally sized groups and treated with either scaling and root planing within 24 h ( SRP) + placebo (Group A) or SRP + AMX + MET (both 500 mg × 3 times daily) for 3 days (Group B) or SRP + AMX + MET (both 500 mg × 3 times daily) for 7 days (Group C). PD, clinical attachment level ( CAL), bleeding on probing ( BOP), full-mouth plaque scores ( FMPS) and gingival bleeding index ( GBI) were assessed prior to treatment (baseline), and at 3 and 6 months post-treatment. The primary outcome variable was the difference (Δ) in the number of sites with PD ≥ 6 mm. Results Ninety-one patients completed the study. At both 3 and 6 months, all three treatment protocols resulted in statistically significant improvements compared to baseline for all evaluated clinical parameters ( p < 0.001). At 6 months, a statistically significantly greater reduction in the mean number of sites with PD ≥ 6 mm was observed in group B (28.62 ± 15.32 sites) and group C (30.45 ± 15.04 sites) compared to the placebo group (17.10 ± 14.68 sites). Furthermore, both the 3- and the 7-day antibiotic regimen resulted in statistically significantly higher clinical improvements compared to the placebo group ( p < 0.05). Conclusion The present findings indicate that in patients with severe chronic periodontitis, non-surgical periodontal therapy in conjunction with a 3 or 7 days systemic administration of AMX + MET may lead to significantly greater clinical improvements compared to non-surgical therapy alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To compare the use of sonic powered or manual toothbrush in patients with intellectual disability ( ID) in terms of plaque (PlI) and gingival ( GI) indices and adverse effects. Material and Methods Subjects with ID were recruited for this cluster-randomized, single blinded (examiner), 6-month clinical trial, comparing powered versus manual toothbrushing. Outcome variables included PlI and GI, evaluated at baseline and 3 months after supervised toothbrushing and after 3 additional months of unsupervised used. Clinical outcome variables were analysed by repeated measures ANCOVA considering time and group as factors and respective baseline values as covariates (generalized linear model). Results Sixty-four patients (34 male, mean age 34.5) in six clusters were included in the study. No statistically significant effect of toothbrushing group was observed for PlI or GI. A significant effect of time was identified ( p < 0.001) with mean reductions ranging 0.44-0.45 for PlI and 0.30-0.36 for GI from baseline to 3-6 months. No relevant adverse effect or technical problems were observed. Conclusion The tested sonic powered toothbrush was as effective and safe as the manual toothbrush. The use of powered or manual toothbrushes, together with fluoride toothpaste, may improve plaque and gingivitis levels, in patients with mild to limit ID. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focused question What is the clinical influence of probiotics as an adjunctive therapy of scaling and root planing ( SRP) when compared with SRP alone or in combination with placebo in the treatment of chronic periodontitis ( CP). Methods Electronic databases were searched up to July 2015. Randomized controlled trials ( RCTs) comparing SRP + probiotic versus SRP were included. PPD reduction and CAL gain were selected as primary outcome variables. Results Independent screening resulted in four eligible publications for the systematic review and three were included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis showed a statistically significant CAL gain (−0.42 mm, p = 0.002) and bleeding on probing ( BOP) reduction (−14.66, p = 0.003) for SRP + probiotic treatment versus SRP at short-term. Only a tendency ( p = 0.06) has been observed in terms of overall PPD reduction, whereas results were significant when stratified for moderate (−0.18, p = 0.001) and deep pockets (−0.67, p < 0.001). Conclusion Within the limitations of this study, the findings of this meta-analysis seem to support the adjunctive use of L. reuteri to SRP in CP treatment at short-term, especially in deep pockets. Heterogeneity and limited available data may reduce the impact of these conclusions. Future long-term RCTs evaluating the clinical efficacy of adjunctive probiotics to SRP are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focused Question: In patients suffering from peri-implant diseases, what is the efficacy of air polishing on changing signs of inflammation compared with control treatments (i.e. alternative measures for plaque removal with or without adjunctive antiseptic and/ or antibiotic therapy)? Material & Methods: After electronic database and hand search, 10 full-text articles were independently screened by two reviewers. Finally, a total of five studies (six publications) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The weighted mean difference (WMD) [p; 95% CI] in bleeding on probing-(BOP) (primary outcome) and probing pocket depth-(PD) reductions was estimated using a random effect model. Results: All studies reported on residual BOP scores after therapy. A narrative data synthesis did not reveal any major improvement of bleeding index/ BOP or disease resolution following air polishing over mechanical debridement at mucositis sites. At peri-implantitis sites, WMD in BOP reduction between test and control (mechanical debridement with or without local antiseptic therapy, Er:YAG laser) groups was -23.83% [p = 0.048; 95% CI (-47.47, -0.20)] favouring air polishing over control measures. Conclusions: While glycine powder air polishing is as effective as the control treatments at mucositis sites, it may improve the efficacy of non-surgical treatment of peri-implantitis over the control measures investigated. A complete disease resolution was commonly not obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To analyse alveolar ridge volume changes after immediate implant placement, with or without a regenerative technique. Methods Studies investigating the effect of immediate implant placement on ridge dimensional changes were identified through an electronic search conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed) and EMBASE. Weighted mean changes ( WMC) between baseline and follow-up time were calculated and subgroup analysis was performed according to study design, evaluation method and regenerative strategies. Results After immediate implant placement alone WMC of RCTs showed a loss in width and height of 1.1 mm. After flapless immediate implant placement with immediate provisionalization and a graft WMC showed a loss in width and height of 1.02 mm and 0.79 mm, while after flapped immediate implant placement and a graft WMC showed a gain of 1.79 mm. After immediate implant placement plus a non-resorbable membrane WMC showed a loss in height of 0.07 mm. After immediate implant placement plus a resorbable membrane and a graft WMC showed a gain in height of 1.09 mm. Conclusions Immediate implant placement does not seem to counteract alveolar ridge modelling after tooth extraction. Furthermore, the currently available evidence does not allow for any conclusive statements regarding the efficacy of a concomitant regenerative technique in preventing the amount of alveolar reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To systematically review the performance of access flap ( OFD) in the treatment of class II furcation defects ( FD). Methods RCTs evaluating surgical treatment of class II FD with OFD, minimum 6 months follow-up were identified. Screening, data extraction, and quality assessment were conducted independently by three reviewers. The primary outcomes were tooth survival and change in the horizontal clinical attachment level ( HCAL). Changes in vertical clinical attachment level ( VCAL), reduction of pocket probing depth ( PPD), recession increase ( REC), horizontal ( HBL), and vertical bone level ( VBL) were also collected. Results The search identified 1571 studies out of which 11 articles met the inclusion criteria. Data analysis was performed on 199 patients and 251 FD. Tooth survival was seldom reported. Altogether with inflammatory amelioration, the weighted mean differences were for HCAL 0.96 mm [ CI: (0.60, 1.32), p < 0.001], 0.55 mm [ CI: (0.00, 1.10), p = 0.05] for VCAL gain. PPD reduction over 6 months was 1.38 mm [ CI: (0.91, 1.85), p < 0.01]. Potential risk of bias was identified. Conclusions Teeth with mandibular class II furcation involvement treated with OFD show significant clinical improvements 6 months after surgery. Nevertheless, in order to better understand the magnitude of these changes and their clinical relevance, prospective long-term trials are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim is to assess the effect of desensitizing toothpaste on dentin hypersensitivity. Methods We searched PubMed, CENTRAL, and Embase on December 20, 2013. Results Out of the 626 articles searched, a total of 31 randomized controlled clinical trials were included. The Standardized mean differences ( SMD) for potassium-containing toothpaste ( n = 8) was −1.28 (95% Confidence interval ( CI) −2.05 to −0.51; I2 = 93%); Stannous fluoride- ( n = 6) was −1.37 (95% CI, −2.30 to −0.44; I2 = 95%); Potassium and stannous fluoride- ( n = 3) was −2.50 (95% CI, −4.10 to −0.91; I2 = 95%); Calcium sodium phosphosilicate - ( n = 4) was −2.36 (95% CI, −3.72 to −1.00; I2 = 92%); Arginine- ( n = 8) was −3.25 (95% CI, −3.87 to −2.63; I2 = 86%). The desensitizing effect was favoured in the intervention group treated with potassium-, stannous fluoride-, potassium and stannous fluoride-, calcium sodium phosphosilicate-, and arginine-containing toothpaste compared to placebo. Whereas, strontium-containing toothpaste ( SMD, 0.05; 95% CI, −0.34 to 0.44; I2 = 64%) was found to have no statistically significant desensitizing effect in the meta-analysis of four studies. Conclusions The study reports that there is sufficient evidence to support the use of potassium-, stannous fluoride-, potassium and stannous fluoride-, calcium sodium phosphosilicate-, and arginine-containing desensitizing toothpastes for dentin hypersensitivity, but not the use of strontium-containing desensitizing toothpaste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To evaluate the direct effects of periodontal therapy in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease ( COPD) patients with chronic periodontitis ( CP). Materials and Methods In a pilot randomized controlled trial, 60 COPD patients with CP were randomly assigned to receive scaling and root planing ( SRP) treatment, supragingival scaling treatment, or oral hygiene instructions only with no periodontal treatment. We evaluated their periodontal indexes, respiratory function, and COPD exacerbations at baseline, 6 months, 1, and 2 years. Results Compared with the control group, measurements of periodontal indexes were significantly improved in patients in two treatment groups at 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year follow-up (all p < 0.05). Overall, the means of forced expiratory volume in the first second/forced vital capacity ( FEV1/ FVC) and FEV1 were significantly higher in the two therapy groups compared with the control group during the follow-up ( p < 0.05). In addition, the frequencies of COPD exacerbation were significantly lower in the two therapy groups than in the control group at 2-year follow-up ( p < 0.05). Conclusions Our preliminary results from this pilot trial suggest that periodontal therapy in COPD patients with CP may improve lung function and decrease the frequency of COPD exacerbation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The purpose of this ongoing randomized study was to assess differences in bone level changes and success rates using implants supporting single crowns in the posterior mandible either with platform matched or platform switched abutments. Material and Methods Patients aged 18 and above, missing at least two teeth in the posterior mandible and with a natural tooth mesial to the most proximal implant site were enrolled. Randomization followed implant placement. Definitive restorations were placed after a minimum transgingival healing period of 8 weeks. Changes in crestal bone level from surgery and loading (baseline) to 12-month post-loading were radiographically measured. Implant survival and success were determined. Results Sixty-eight patients received 74 implants in the platform switching group and 72 in the other one. The difference of mean marginal bone level change from surgery to 12 months was significant between groups ( p < 0.004). Radiographical mean bone gain or no bone loss from loading was noted for 67.1% of the platform switching and 49.2% of the platform matching implants. Implant success rates were 97.3% and 100%, respectively. Conclusions Within the same implant system the platform switching concept showed a positive effect on marginal bone levels when compared with restorations with platform matching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To review the effectiveness of enamel matrix derivative ( EMD) in the treatment of periodontal pockets of suprabony defects. Methods Randomized Clinical Trials comparing open flap debridement (OFD) versus EMD in periodontal suprabony defects were identified through electronic and manual search. Screening, data extraction and quality assessment were conducted. The primary outcome measures were tooth survival (TS) and clinical attachment level ( CAL) gain. Pocket probing depth ( PPD) reduction and recession ( REC) increase were secondary outcome measures. Information concerning clinical and radiological bone gain was also collected. Results The search identified 1170 studies, three articles reporting on (99 subjects/358 teeth) met the inclusion criteria and were included. No tooth was lost during follow-up (8-12 months). The adjunctive mean benefit of EMD was: 1.2 mm for CAL gain [confidence interval (CI): (0.9, 1.4), p < 0.00001, I2 = 66%], 1.2 mm for the PPD reduction ( CI: [0.8, 1.5], p < 0.0001, I2 = 0%), −0.5 mm for the REC increase ( CI: [−0.8, −0.2], p = 0.003, I2 = 0%). Potential risk of bias was identified. Conclusions No differences were noted in TS but EMD application resulted in clinical and radiographic additional benefits compared to OFD alone. Nevertheless, the paucity of data, the risk of methodological and potential publication bias suggests caution in interpreting these results while supporting multicenter studies for this specific application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To compare the clinical and microbiological outcome of the 1-h ultrasonic debridement of chronic periodontitis patients ( CPP) with and without frequent sessions of oral hygiene reinforcement. Methods Clinical measurements and subgingival plaque were collected from 44 CPP at baseline, 3- and 6-months. The control group received a single session of 1-h full-mouth ultrasonic debridement, while oral hygiene instructions ( OHI) were reiterated over four visits. In the test group, OHI were limited in the 1-h treatment session. At 3-months, both groups received additional debridement and OHI. The 'Checkerboard' DNA- DNA hybridization technique quantified Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia and Treponema denticola in plaque. Results At three months, smaller reductions in plaque and bleeding indices, and in P. gingivalis numbers were noted in the test group, while these differences disappeared at six months. After the 3-month re-treatment visit, the test group presented with a greater probing pocket depth ( PPD) reduction. Plaque negatively affected PPD in a similar manner after both treatment approaches. Conclusions Lack of oral hygiene reinforcement in the 1-h full-mouth debridement resulted in higher plaque and bleeding scores and numbers of P. gingivalis at three months; professional removal of dental biofilm every three months is beneficial in subjects with compromised plaque control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Systematic review and meta-analyses to study the robustness of observations that treatment of periodontitis improves the atherosclerotic profile. Material and Methods Literature was searched in Medline-PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL and EMBASE, based on controlled periodontal intervention trials, including also a non-intervention group. Data were extracted and meta-analyses were performed. Results From 3928 screened studies, 25 trials met the eligibility criteria. These trials enrolled 1748 periodontitis patients. Seven trials enrolled periodontitis patients that were otherwise healthy, 18 trials recruited periodontal patients with various co-morbidities, such as CVD or diabetes. None of the trials used hard clinical endpoints of CVD. However, improvement of endothelial function has been consistently reported. Meta-analyses demonstrated significant weighted mean difference (WMD) for hsCRP (−0.50 mg/l, 95% CI:−0.78; −0.22), IL-6 (−0.48 ng/l, 95% CI: −0.90; −0.06), TNF-α (−0.75 pg/ml, 95% CI: −1.34; −0.17), fibrinogen (−0.47 g/l, 95% CI: −0.76; −0.17), total cholesterol (−0.11 mmol/l, 95% CI: −0.21; −0.01) and HDL-C (0.04 mmol/l, 95% CI: 0.03; 0.06) favouring periodontal intervention. Importantly, periodontitis patients with co-morbidity benefitted most from periodontal therapy; significant WMD were observed for levels of hsCRP (−0.71 mg/l, 95% CI: −1.05; −0.36), IL-6 (−0.87 ng/l, 95% CI: −0.97; −0.78), triglycerides (−0.24 mmol/l, 95% CI: −0.26; −0.22), total cholesterol (−0.15 mmol/l, 95% CI: −0.29; −0.01), HDL-C (0.05 mmol/l, 95% CI: 0.03; 0.06) and HbA1c (−0.43%, 95% CI: −0.60; −0.25). Conclusions This systematic review and meta-analyses demonstrate that periodontal treatment improves endothelial function and reduces biomarkers of atherosclerotic disease, especially in those already suffering from CVD and/or diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To examine the 2-year post-therapy kinetics of change in the composition of subgingival biofilms. Material and Methods In this study, 178 chronic periodontitis subjects were recruited and clinically monitored at baseline, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after therapy. All subjects received scaling and root planing and 156 one or more of periodontal surgery, systemically administered amoxicillin + metronidazole or local tetracycline at pockets ≥5 mm. Subgingival biofilm samples taken from each subject at each time point were analysed for their content of 40 bacterial species using checkerboard DNA-DNA hybridization. The significance of changes in median species counts over time was sought using the Wilcoxon or Friedman tests and adjusted for multiple comparisons. Results Mean counts were significantly reduced from baseline to 2 years for 30 of the 40 taxa. Marked reductions were observed for periodontal pathogens including Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola and Eubacterium nodatum. The kinetics of change differed from species to species. When data were subset according to baseline PD, patterns of change in the microbial profiles were generally similar. Conclusion Periodontal therapy leads to a rapid reduction in periodontal pathogens, followed by a slower reduction in other taxa that can be sustained for at least 2 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This RCT compared non-surgical treatment of peri-implant mucositis with or without systemic antibiotics. Materials and Methods Forty-eight subjects received non-surgical debridement with or without systemic Azithromax ® (4 days), and were followed during 6 months. The checkerboard DNA- DNA hybridization method was used to analyse the microbiological material. Results Five subjects were excluded due to antibiotic medication during follow-up. At baseline,1 and 3 months no group differences were found. Statistical analysis failed to demonstrate differences in probing pocket depths ( PPD) values at 6 months (Mean diff PPD: 0.5 mm, SE: ±0.4 mm, 95% CI: −0.2, 1.3, p = 0.16). Mean% implant bleeding decreased between baseline and month 6 from 82.6% to 27.3% in the test, and from 80.0% to 47.5% in the control group ( p < 0.02). Throughout the study, no study group differences in bacterial counts were found. Conclusion No short-term differences were found between study groups. The clinical improvements observed at 6 months may be attributed to improvements in oral hygiene. The present study does not provide evidence for the use of systemic antibiotics in treatment of peri-implant mucositis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chambrone L, Pannuti CM, Guglielmetti MR, Chambrone LA. Evidence grade associating periodontitis with preterm birth and/or low birth weight. II. A systematic review of randomized trials evaluating the effects of periodontal treatment. J Clin Periodontol 2011; 38: 902-914. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-051X.2011.01761.x. Abstract Aim: The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate whether maternal periodontal disease treatment (MPDT) can reduce the incidence of preterm birth (PB) and/or low birth weight (LBW). Methods: The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for entries up to October 2010 without restrictions regarding the language of publication. Only randomized-controlled clinical trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effect of MPDT on birth term and birth weight were included. The search was conducted by two independent reviewers and random-effects meta-analyses were conducted methodically. Results: Thirteen RCTs provided data, but only five trials were considered to be at a low risk of bias. The results of eight studies (61.5%) showed that MPDT may reduce the incidence of PB and/or LBW. However, the results of all meta-analyses showed contrasting results for PB [RR: 0.88 (95% CI: 0.72, 1.09)], LBW [RR: 0.78 (95% CI: 0.53, 1.17)] and PB/LBW [RR: 0.52 (95% CI: 0.08, 3.31)]. Conclusion: The results of this review show that MPDT did not decrease the risk of PB and/or LBW; however, the influence of specific aspects that were not investigated (disease diagnosis, extension and severity and the success of MPDT) should be evaluated by future RCTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]