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Objectives:  This in vitro study aimed to investigate the impact of bicarbonate air-abrasive powders and ultrasonic scaling with stainless steel tips on the micro- and nanotopography and roughness of three different implant-abutment junction titanium surfaces., Materials and Methods:  Three types of sterile and decontaminated titanium surfaces (RS, UTM, XA) were used for analysis. Nine disks per surface type were subjected to micro- and nanotopography analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), roughness analysis, and fibroblast cultivation. Ultrasonic debridement and air polishing were performed on the surfaces. Human dermal fibroblasts were cultured on the surfaces for 5 days., Statistical Analysis:  Data analysis adhered to ISO 25178 standards for surface texture assessment. SEM micrographs were used to reconstruct areas for extracting roughness parameters. Excel and Mex 6.0 software were utilized for quantitative and stereoscopic analysis., Results:  The study found varying effects on surface roughness posttreatment. RS Disco samples exhibited higher surface roughness compared with UTM and XA samples, both in average and nanoscale roughness. Decontamination led to increased surface roughness for all samples, particularly RS Disco. Fibroblast growth tests revealed enhanced cell network formation on decontaminated discs, possibly due to increased nanoscale roughness or the presence of bicarbonate salts., Conclusion:  The study underscores the complex interplay between surface topography, microbial biofilm, and treatment efficacy in peri-implant disease management. While smoother surfaces may resist biofilm accumulation, increased nanoscale roughness postdecontamination can enhance fibroblast attachment and soft tissue integration. This dichotomy highlights the need for tailored treatment protocols that consider material-specific factors, emphasizing that successful implant therapy should balance microbial control with conducive surface characteristics for long-term osseointegration and soft tissue stability., Competing Interests: None declared., (The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, permitting unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction so long as the original work is properly cited. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).)

Ameloblastoma is a rare, benign, but locally aggressive odontogenic tumor that originates from the epithelial cells involved in tooth development. The surgical approach to treating an ameloblastoma depends on the type, size, location, and extent of the tumor, as well as the patient's age and overall health. This umbrella review's aim is to summarize the findings from systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses on the effect of radical or conservative treatment of ameloblastoma on the recurrence rate and quality of life, to evaluate the methodological quality of the included SRs and discuss the clinical management. Three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, The Cochrane Library) were checked. The primary outcome was the recurrence rate after surgical treatment, while the secondary outcomes were the post-operative complications, quality of life, esthetic, and functional impairment. The methodological quality of the included SRs was assessed using the updated version of "A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Review" (AMSTAR-2). Eighteen SRs were included. The quality of the included reviews ranged from critically low (three studies) to high (eight studies). Four studies were included in meta-analysis, and they revealed that the recurrence rate is about three-times more likely in the conservative treatment group compared to the radical treatment group, and this result is statistically significant. Despite the high recurrence rate, the latter was more appropriate in the case of smaller lesions and younger patients, due to better post-operative quality of life and reduced functional and esthetic impairments. Based on the results of this overview, conservative treatment may be recommended as the first-line approach for intraosseous ameloblastoma not involving soft tissue. However, given the expectation of a higher recurrence rate, it is advisable to reduce the interval between follow-up visits. However, further prospective studies are needed to establish the best treatment choice and follow-up period.

Objectives: Ongoing research has begun to develop innovative approaches to deliver local antibiotics while minimizing systemic side effects, antimicrobial resistance, and limited tissue penetration. Autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) offer promise in delivering antibiotics directly to infection sites. Despite the interest, a comprehensive evaluation of their effectiveness is lacking. Therefore, this systematic scoping review aims to collect and appraise studies regarding the efficacy of APCs in delivering antibiotics., Methods: A systematic electronic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, using a combination of keywords, was conducted up to February 2024. Articles addressing the use of APCs as a local antibiotic delivery system were included., Results: A total of 13 articles, including 10 in vitro studies, 1 in vitro and clinical study, 1 ex vivo study, and 1 clinical study, were selected. Antibiotic loading capacity and release was confirmed in all studies using doxycycline, gentamicin, linezolid, vancomycin, metronidazole, and penicillin. In addition, the antibacterial effect was obtained mainly against E. coli. , P. aeruginosa , S. mitis , H. influenzae , S. pneumoniae , and S. aureus ., Conclusions: The incorporation of antibiotics into APCs has been proven to facilitate the effective release of antimicrobial agents at optimal concentrations, potentially reducing the incidence of post-operative infections, substituting, or augmenting systemic antibiotic treatment while retaining APCs' inherent healing properties.

Aging is frequently associated with a progressive increase in chronic low-grade inflammation, known as "inflammaging". Numerous studies have shown that inflammaging is closely linked to the development of several age-related diseases. However, the underlying mechanism and its causal role are still not fully understood despite this association. In the complex context of aging, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) undergo changes in behavior and functionality. This narrative topical review examines the recent advances in aging research, specifically focusing on the role of inflammaging and related mechanisms that contribute to age-related chronic diseases. The authors critically investigated whether and how inflammaging, epigenetic damage, mitochondrial changes, and macrophage alterations may influence stem cell behavior, highlighting the interplay between these factors and their potential therapeutic implications. By elucidating the mechanisms underlying these processes, we can gain valuable insights into the maintenance and regeneration of stem cell populations, providing the basis for novel therapeutic strategies targeting age-related decline and disease progression.

Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest Authors declare there is not conflict of interest.

Maxillary sinus augmentation is one of the most predictable procedures for the rehabilitation of the posterior maxilla. The current overview aimed to summarize the findings provided by systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses on the effectiveness of autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) in sinus lift and to assess the methodological quality of the included SRs. Three electronic databases have been explored. SRs and meta-analyses addressing the effectiveness of APCs in sinus lift technique were included. Clinical, radiographic and histomorphometric findings were considered for APCs as solely grafting materials and APCs in combination with biomaterials. Outcomes were implant survival rate (ISR), implant stability (IS), implant failure (IF), postoperative complications, histomorphometric findings, radiographic bone gain, bone volume and bone density. The methodological quality of the included SRs was assessed using the updated version of "A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Review" (AMSTAR-2). Thirty SRs were included. The methodological quality of the included reviews ranged from critically low (3 studies) to high (9 studies). The included SRs showed favorable clinical outcomes, short-term new bone formation and no biological complications when APCs were used both as solely graft material or in combination with other biomaterials. However, no significant additional effects in the long-term period were observed. APCs did not add any further positive effects compared to the physiological healing derived by the natural blood clot. The current overview of SRs highlighted the need for high-quality SRs evaluating the role of APCs in sinus lift though network meta-analyses, in order to identify the most powerful material for sinus lift augmentation. The use of APCs improves the healing of soft tissues and the postoperative quality of life in the short-term period. Thus, its application can be recommended.

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of crestal and subcrestal implant position on development of peri-implant diseases., Materials and Methods: The study was designed as a retrospective clinical and radiographic analysis. Implant-supported fixed dental prostheses were allocated in two groups: with the shoulder (i) placed in sub-crestal level and (ii) placed at bone level. For each patient, the following clinical variables were assessed: FMPS, FMBS, PlI, BOP, and PD. After prothesis delivery, an intraoral radiograph was obtained; this exam was performed also at 5 years of observation period., Results: No statistically significant difference was found in terms of FMPS and FMBS at baseline and after 5 years follow-up (P < 0.05). A statistically significant difference was assessed between PD of control group and test group (P = 0.042). Patient-based analysis showed a 25.6% of peri-implant mucositis and 32.6% of peri-implantitis for implants placed with the shoulder in crestal position, while for implants inserted in sub-crestal position the percentage of peri-implant-mucositis and peri-implantitis were 19%; no statistically significant difference was found between groups after 5 years (P < 0.05)., Conclusions: Within the limitation of the present study, the clinical and radiographic outcomes showed that the percentage of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis was not statistically significant for both groups after 5 years follow-up., Clinical Relevance: The outcomes of present study clinically demonstrated that a deep position of implant shoulder did not provide any benefits. On the contrary, it may be considered a possible risk indicator for implant diseases., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Regenerative techniques are increasingly applied in endodontic surgery, but different materials may have varying impacts on soft and hard tissue healing. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) in clinical and radiographic healing after endodontic surgery. The data for this systematic review were processed following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for improving the reporting of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. A literature search was conducted until October 2023 on PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Databases. Randomized controlled trials and controlled clinical trials addressing the use of APCs in patients who presented persistent periapical lesions and needed periapical surgery were included. Dual publications, narrative reviews, systematic reviews, case series, questionnaires, animal studies, case reports, letters to the editor, in vitro studies, and abstracts were excluded. In total, the search resulted in 14 papers. Clinical and radiographical findings were reported, showing that when APCs were used, patients exhibited less pain and swelling and a greater reduction of apical radiolucency after 12 months follow-up on average. However, the moderate/high risk of bias of included studies and their high heterogeneity, do not allow one to draw definitive conclusions on the effectiveness of APC after endodontic surgery.

Background: Assessment of risk factors is crucial for lowering complication rates and costs of hip and knee arthroplasty. The objective of this study was to assess if members of the Argentinian Hip and Knee Association (ACARO) are influenced by such risk factors when planning surgery., Methods: In 2022, a survey was distributed as an electronically based questionnaire to 370 members of the ACARO. A descriptive analysis was performed on 166 proper answers (44.9%)., Results: There were 68% of the respondents who were specialists in joint arthroplasty and 32% practiced general orthopedics. A large number had large volumes at private hospitals without service/residents and 48.2% had been in practice for more than 15 years. Of the responding surgeons, 99% routinely performed a preoperative reversible risk factors evaluation that considered diabetes, malnutrition, weight, and smoking, and 95% canceled/postponed the surgery for abnormalities. Malnutrition was important for 79% of the polled with blood albumin being used by 69.3%. Fall risk assessment was performed by 60.2% of the surgeons. Only 44% of the surgeons felt free to choose the implant for the arthroplasty, possibly because 69.9% work for a capitated system. Important delays for surgery were reported by 63.9 and 84.3% had waiting lists. 74.7% of the polled noted physical or psychological deterioration during such delays., Conclusion: Socioeconomic factors firmly impact on the accessibility to arthroplasty in Argentina. Despite these barriers, the qualitative analysis of this poll let us demonstrate greater awareness of preoperative risk factors, especially diabetes as the most reported comorbidity., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Bone Tissue Engineering (BTE) is a field of regenerative medicine continuously improving, thanks to the development of new biomaterials used as grafts or scaffolds for repairing bone defects. In recent years, chitosan, a natural biopolymer extracted mainly from crustacean shells, has demonstrated unique and desirable characteristics for BTE applications, such as: biocompatibility, biodegradability, and osteoconductive behavior. Additionally, the presence of numerous active amine groups in its chemical structure allows it to be easily modified. Data suggest that chitosan scaffolds are highly biomimetic, and show an interesting bioactivity, and antibacterial behavior. We have demonstrated, in a critical overview, how chitosan-based scaffolds may hold great interest for BTE applications in medical and dental applications. Future research should be focused on the use of chitosan-scaffolds combined with other biomaterials or bioactive molecules, to increase their overall regenerative potential, also in critical-sized defects. In conclusion, chitosan can be considered a promising biomaterial in BTE and clinical dentistry., Competing Interests: Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interest exists., (© The author(s).)

This is a showcase for technical description of a full digital workflow aimed to reconstruct and prosthetically rehabilitate the mandible after surgical resection. The surgery was performed following a computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) guided workflow, using 3D reconstruction of the mandible and the fibula. After 2 years, when the ossification of the flap was reached and verified by a computed tomography (CT) scan, surgery was performed using a two-step implant rehabilitation, with successful outcomes.

One of the common challenges in oral surgery is dealing with patients who are taking oral anticoagulant/antiaggregant drugs. Several local hemostatic agents have been proposed as an alternative to conventional suturing. Among these, autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) have been widely used to decrease the risk of hemorrhage after dental extraction. Nevertheless, there is a lack of consensus regarding the superiority of any one specific hemostatic agent over the others. This systematic review is aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of APCs as hemostatic agents after tooth extraction in patients on anticoagulant therapy. A literature search was conducted of articles published before March 2023 on PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). Studies on the use of APCs in patients undergoing dental extractions and being treated with anticoagulant drugs were included. Only randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) published up to March 2023 were included; the outcomes assessed were the time to hemostasis, the presence of post-operative bleeding and pain, and the effectiveness of wound healing. The risk of bias for each RCT was assessed by using the 'risk of bias' tool (RoB 1.0). The research revealed 6 RCTs. The findings indicated that patients on anticoagulant therapy who received APCs without discontinuing their medication experienced a decreased post-operative bleeding, a shorter hemostasis time, reduced pain, and accelerated wound healing. However, due to the high/unclear risk of bias of the studies included, no definitive conclusions can be drawn on the superiority of APCs as hemostatic agents over other similar products. Additional studies are required to validate these findings.

Zirconia and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) are two biomaterials widely investigated as substitute for metals in oral prosthetic rehabilitation. To achieve a proper biomechanical behavior, the prosthetic biomaterials must ensure a good resistance to loads, as this is a crucial characteristic enabling their use in dental applications. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in the fracture resistance of different biomaterials in an experimental environment: fixed partial dentures (FPDs) screwed in a prototype of biomimetic mandible. 10 Samples of FPDs were allocated in 2 groups (A and B): Group A (n=5) involved FPDs in zirconia-ceramic, and Group B (n=5) involved FPDs in PEEK-composite. The samples were loaded by means of a three-point bending mechanical test, and the load to fracture has been evaluated generating a point-by-point graphics (speed/load and time/deformation). The samples were further analyzed by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and described under experimental loading conditions. Zirconia-ceramic FDPs were the samples reporting the worst results, showing a lower value of vertical displacement with respect to PEEK-based samples. The micro-CT results have further confirmed the preliminary results previously described. This in vitro study aims to give analytic data on the reliability of PEEK as a reliable and strong biomaterial for prosthetic treatments., Competing Interests: Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interest exists., (© The author(s).)

Purpose: To explore whether extra-short (4-mm) implants could be used to rehabilitate sites where regenerative procedures had failed in order to avoid additional bone grafting., Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted among patients who had received extra-short implants after failed regenerative procedures in the posterior atrophic mandible. The research outcomes were complications, implant failure and peri-implant marginal bone loss., Results: The study population was composed of 35 patients with 103 extra-short implants placed after the failure of different reconstructive approaches. The mean follow-up duration was 41.3 ± 21.4 months post-loading. Two implants failed, leading to a failure rate of 1.94% (95% confidence interval 0.24%-6.84%) and an implant survival rate of 98.06%. The mean amount of marginal bone loss at 5 years post-loading was 0.32 ± 0.32 mm. It was significantly lower in extra-short implants placed in regenerative sites that had previously received a loaded long implant (P = 0.004). Failure of guided bone regeneration before placement of short implants tended to lead to the highest annual rate of marginal bone loss (P = 0.089). The overall rate of biological and prosthetic complications was 6.79% (95% confidence interval 1.94%-11.70%) and 3.88% (95% confidence interval 1.07%-9.65%), respectively. The success rate was 86.4% (95% confidence interval 65.10%-97.10%) after 5 years of loading., Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, extra-short implants seem to be a good clinical option to manage reconstructive surgical failures, reducing surgical invasiveness and rehabilitation time.

Oral malignant melanoma (OMM) has a prevalence less than 1% of all melanomas and it commonly develops on the oral mucosa following a slow and unspecific transformation of unstable melanocytic lesions, often resulting in a diagnostic delay. The marker PReferentially Expressed Antigen in MElanoma (PRAME) seems to be a valid tool to investigate the biological and histological nature of cutaneous melanocytic lesions, but to date its use to characterize pigmented lesions in the oral cavity is largely unexplored. The aim of this study was to create preliminary knowledge on the PRAME expression in OMM, and to compare its expression respect to other dysplastic pigmented lesions of the oral cavity. Interestingly, PRAME has been demonstrated to be reliable in the clinical conditions investigated in our pilot study; in fact, it has clearly differentiated the cases of Melanoma, which showed diffuse and intense positivity (score 6+/7+) to PRAME, from the other melanocytic nevi, which resulted to be mainly negative to PRAME. This means a better differential diagnosis, a reliable early diagnosis and a proper clinical/surgical management of the oncological lesions. In conclusion, PRAME can be a valid qualitative marker for differential diagnosis, not only in cutaneous melanomas, but also in malignant melanoma of the entire head and neck area., Competing Interests: Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interest exists., (© The author(s).)

Dental anxiety is a crucial problem for dentistry because it may represent a significant risk to oral health. Within the framework of the Cognitive Vulnerability Model (CVM), which sheds light on the cognitive vulnerability patterns that may cause dental anxiety, this study aimed to assess the psychometric characteristics of the Italian version of the Dental Fear Maintenance Questionnaire (DFMQ). The DFMQ is a 32-item questionnaire that assesses four cognitive vulnerability patterns, i.e., dangerousness, disgust, unpredictability, and uncontrollability. In a sample of 200 dental patients who had accessed public-university-hospital dental surgery, this study assessed the model fit of the DFMQ and different types of validity (i.e., predictive, convergent, construct, and discriminant validity). In addition, potential differences between DFMQ dimensions were assessed based on gender (men vs. women) and age ranges. All indicators of cognitive vulnerability were significantly associated with high dental anxiety when each variable was included independently. In contrast, when the DFMQ subscales were considered together, only unpredictability and uncontrollability were found to be associated with high dental anxiety. Women had higher scores for unpredictability, uncontrollability, and general dangerousness than men. In addition, older patients had higher scores for some vulnerability cognitive patterns than younger patients. This study provides Italian dentists and researchers with a valid questionnaire to assess cognitive factors associated with dental anxiety.

Objective: Recently, Zirconia and polyaryletherketone (PEEK) have attracted increasing interest as reliable and safe materials in dental applications, mainly because of their good biomechanical characteristics. The aim of this study was to investigate the response to different loads by prosthetic frameworks for supported fixed partial dentures (FPDs), thus simulating osseointegrated implants., Materials and Methods: The specimens were divided into two groups (n= 5 each). Group A: FDPs in zirconia-ceramic; Group B: FDPs in PEEK-composite. These 2 groups were subjected to vertical loads so to evaluate structural deformation; then, they have been analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at different magnifications., Results: In tested samples, different types of mechanical failures have been observed. In Zirconia-specimens, chipping is the main failure noticed in this study, mostly in distal margins of the structure. Also, peek-specimens show failure and fracture., Conclusions: Zirconia and PEEK could be considered both good materials, but several investigations are needed to use these materials as an alternative to metals for fixed partial dentures.

The current overview aimed to summarise the findings provided by systematic reviews (SRs) on the effect of surgical procedures in the acceleration of tooth movement and to assess the methodological quality of the included SRs. Three electronic databases have been explored. SRs addressing the effects of surgical procedures on the acceleration of tooth movement were included. The methodological quality of the included SRs was assessed using the updated version of "A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Review" (AMSTAR-2). Twenty-eight (28) SRs were included. The methodological quality of the included reviews ranged between critically low (6 studies) and high (12 studies). The most common critical weakness in the included reviews was the absence of clearly a-prior established review methods and any significant deviations from the protocol. The most studied surgical procedure was corticotomy, followed by micro-osteoperforation, piezocision and periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodontics. The majority of the included SRs supported short-term favourable effects of corticotomy on treatment time and tooth movement rate, in the short-term. However, the authors of the included SRs reported that results were based on weak quality evidence. Conflicting results arise from the existent SRs with regards to the effectiveness of piezocision and micro-osteoperforation. Few SRs summarised complications and side effects of surgical techniques, supporting absence of loss of tooth vitality, periodontal problems, or severe root resorption. The current overview of SRs highlighted the need of high quality SRs comparing different surgical approaches for tooth movement acceleration though network meta-analysis, in order to determine the most efficient instrument for orthodontic movement acceleration., (© 2022 The Authors.)

Lateral periodontal cyst (LPC) and odontogenic keratocystic (OK) are two osteolytic lesions of the jaw with different local invasiveness and percentage of recurrence. The aim of this study was to highlight the attention on the differential diagnosis of these lesions that sometimes can have unexpected location and can lead doubts on diagnosis, therapy, and follow-up. A 34-year-old man presented to our department with a complaint of soft pain in the vestibular aspect of left mandibular second premolar and left mandibular first molar. Vital teeth in the left mandible, no mucosal swelling, and no drainage were observed. The CBCT showed a well circumscribed hypodensity area, extending between 3.5 and the apex of mesial root of 3.6. No displacement and no resorption of the roots were notified. Upon clinical and radiographical examination, a provisional diagnosis of LPC was made and enucleation of the lesion and histological examination were planned. Histologically, a cystic wall partially lined by a keratinizing squamous epithelium was observed. Surrounding and within the lesion, there was a chronic inflammatory infiltrate also of granulomatous type and with cholesterol clefts. Based on these findings, the diagnosis of odontogenic keratocystic was done. Radiolucent lesions in the premolar and canine region are frequently clinically and radiographically misdiagnosed. The identification of keratocyst in a location preoperatively favoring a lateral periodontal cyst should be suspected and biopsy must be considered in all cases to establish the nature of the lesion, the best surgical treatment, and the follow-up appointments.

Background: An adequate blood supply plays a leading role in the healing process of the post-extractive socket; its coagulation leads to fibrin clot formation, which acts as a physical barrier able to prevent postoperative bleeding and microbial infection. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of antiaggregant drugs in healing post-extraction sockets compared to natural wound healing. Methods: This was a single-center prospective clinical trial. Extraction sockets allocated in healthy patients and in patients assuming antiplatelet drugs were considered. Thirty consecutive patients under (treated with/in treatment with) oral antiplatelet treatment were enrolled in the test group. In order to provide a control group, 30 consecutive patients meeting all the exclusion and inclusion criteria were enrolled. The extraction of the mono-radicular tooth was atraumatically performed without gingivoplasty or osteotomy procedures that could influence the healing process. Photographs were obtained before and immediately after surgery and at 3-, 7-, 14- and 28-days follow-up. Results: All patients assumed the prescribed therapy and their post-operative recovery was uneventful without any kind of post-extractive complications. The results of inter-group comparison show that on the third and seventh days of follow-up, the antiplatelet group expressed a statistically significant higher level of healing compared to the control group (p < 0.05), while no statistically significant differences were recorded at 14- and 28-days follow-up. Conclusions: Patients treated with antiplatelet agents seemed to show that this therapy can positively affect the healing process after tooth extractions.

Purpose: The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the available evidence in the literature to answer the following focused question: In partially edentulous arches with reduced bone width, do implants placed after horizontal bone augmentation exhibit differences in survival and success rate compared to narrow-diameter implants placed in native bone?, Materials and Methods: A population, intervention, comparison and outcome question was defined and an electronic search was conducted using the MEDLINE (via PubMed) and Cochrane Oral Health Group databases to identify all studies analysing the use of standard-diameter implants inserted in regenerated bone or narrow-diameter implants for the rehabilitation of partially or completely edentulous atrophic maxillae and mandibles. Inclusion criteria and quality assessments were established, and studies were selected on this basis., Results: Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria and were analysed cumulatively. A comparative meta-analysis was not possible due to the lack of studies directly comparing the two rehabilitation methods in question. A cumulative implant survival rate of 97.80% (1246/1274; pooled proportion 0.984, 95% confidence interval 0.977-0.991) was reported for the narrow implants placed in atrophic ridges, while similar results were obtained for the standard-diameter implants placed in regenerated bone, with a cumulative implant survival rate of 97.94% (1332/1360; pooled proportion 0.983, 95% confidence interval 0.976-0.990)., Conclusions: The present systematic review found high and comparable survival rates between narrow- and standard-diameter implants placed in regenerated bone; however, well-designed randomised controlled trials are required to support the hypothesis that both treatment strategies are successful in comparable circumstances.

This article analyzes factors affecting food access and consumption on the part of domestic groups during COVID-19 lockdown in Villa 21-24 of the City of Buenos Aires during April and June 2020. In a context marked by high rates of poverty and malnutrition due to excess, it was possible to observe the influence of food environments with abundant ultra-processed and industrialized products, especially flour, through different access channels. The relationship between the role of women and intra-household food management shows that those who bear the burden of hunger are women. Food availability is assured without questioning its quality, but access to food depends on individual management, rendering them invisible as rights-bearing subjects, with a particular impact on children and adolescents.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of lockdown due to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic on the periodontal status of patients with periodontitis in supportive periodontal therapy., Method and Materials: A retrospective analysis of patients affected by periodontitis stage III-IV-grade A, B, and C, who had their supportive periodontal therapy to September 2020, after a period of 6 months from the planned maintenance recall (March 2020) was performed. Clinical parameters full-mouth plaque score (FMPS), full-mouth bleeding score (FMBS), and probing depth (PD) were evaluated. Patients were assigned to three groups: A (nonsmokers); B (< 10 cigarettes/day); and C (> 10 cigarettes/day). Statistical analysis was used to compare intra-group and inter-group differences., Results: In total, 55 subjects with the mean age of 47.7 ± 7.0 years were enrolled. The number of participants in group A and group B decreased, respectively, from 25 (45.5%) to 20 (36.4%) and from 17 (30.9%) to 13 (23.6%). The C group increased from 13 (23.6%) to 22 (40.0%). A statistically significant increase in mean FMPS was recorded in group A (from 22.5 ± 3.5 to 30.0 ± 28.3; P < .0001); group B (from 22.5 ± 12.7 to 42.5 ± 3.5; P < .0001); and group C (from 22.5 ± 25.5 to 42.5 ± 10.6; P < .0001). A statistically significant increase in mean FMBS was recorded in group A (from 15.0 ± 7.1 to 25.0 ± 21.2; P < .0001); group B (from 15.0 ± 0.0 to 37.5 ± 3.5; P < .001); and group C (from 12.5 ± 3.5 to 30.0 ± 7.1; P < .0001). A statistically significant increase in mean PD was recorded in group A (from 4.48 ± 0.5 to 5.25 ± 1.2; P < .001); in group B (from 4.71 ± 0.7 to 5.38 ± 1.31; P < .0001); and group C (from 6.00 ± 0.0 to 7.09 ± 1.1; P < .0001)., Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study the results showed that the pandemic period resulted in an increase in probing depth for the patients in regular SPT, possibly due to increased tobacco consumption.

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has involved a severe increase of cases worldwide in a wide range of populations. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate recent insights about COVID-19 infection in children, infants and pregnant subjects., Methods: a literature overview was performed including clinical trials, in vitro studies, reviews and published guidelines regarding the present paper topic. A descriptive synthesis was performed to evaluate recent insights and the effectiveness of therapies for SARS-CoV-2 infection in children, infants and pregnant subjects., Results: Insufficient data are available regarding the relationship between COVID-19 and the clinical risk of spontaneous abortion and premature foetus death. A decrease in the incidence of COVID-19 could be correlated to a minor expression of ACE2 in childrens' lungs. At present, a modulation of the dose-effect posology for children and infants is necessary., Conclusions: Pregnant vertical transmission has been hypothesised for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccines are necessary to achieve mass immunity for children and also pregnant subjects.

Dental anxiety is a crucial problem for dentistry because it may represent a significant risk to oral health. Different factors, whether non-cognitive (e.g., traumatic dental events) or cognitive (e.g., the patient's subjective perceptions), may cause dental anxiety. However, previous studies have assessed these factors as independent predictors of dental anxiety, without providing any exploration of potential mediational pathways. The current study assessed the role of certain cognitive dimensions (i.e., the dentist's perceived professionalism and communicational attitudes, and the patient's perceived lack of control) as mediators between traumatic dental events and dental anxiety. The sample comprised 253 patients who had accessed a public university hospital dental surgery. The mediation analysis used a structural equation modeling. Traumatic dental events were positively associated with dental anxiety but, among the cognitive factors, only lack of control was. Furthermore, lack of control mediated the relationship between traumatic dental events and dental anxiety, although this mediation was only partial. This study sheds light on the mechanisms through which non-cognitive and cognitive factors may affect dental anxiety. The clinical implications for dental practice, in terms of improving the psychological well-being of patients, are discussed., (© 2021 The Authors. European Journal of Oral Sciences published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Scandinavian Division of the International Association for Dental Research.)

Quality of sleep (QoS) and mood may impair oral cancer survivors' wellbeing, however few evidences are currently available. Therefore, we aimed to assess the prevalence of sleep disorders, anxiety and depression among five-year oral cancer survivors (OC survivors). 50 OC survivors were compared with 50 healthy subjects matched for age and sex. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the Hamilton Rating Scales for Depression and Anxiety (HAM-D, HAM-A), the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), the Total Pain Rating Index (T-PRI) were administered. The global score of the PSQI, ESS, HAM-A, HAM-D, NRS, T-PRI, was statistically higher in the OC survivors than the controls ( p -value: <0.001). QoS of OC survivors was significantly impaired, especially with regard to some PSQI sub-items as the subjective sleep quality, sleep latency and daytime dysfunction ( p -value: 0.001, 0.029, 0.004). Moreover, poor QoS was negatively correlated with years of education ( p -value: 0.042 *) and positively correlated with alcohol consumption ( p -value: 0.049 *) and with the use of systemic medications ( p -value: 0.044 *). Sleep disorders and mood disorders are common comorbidities in OC survivors; therefore, early assessment and management before, during and after treatment should be performed in order to improve the quality of life of OC survivors.

Containment measures adopted to reduce the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have produced a general perception of job insecurity. Dentists have been highly affected by such measures, as they represent an easy source of contagion. As perceived job insecurity is associated with psychological distress and Italian dentists have been highly affected by the COVID-19 outbreak in terms of potential financial loss and the risk of being infected, this study aimed at assessing whether the fear of COVID-19 moderated the effect of perceived job insecurity on depressive symptoms. This cross-sectional online study has included 735 Italian dentists recruited during the lockdown and ranging in age from 27 to 70 years old (495 men and 240 women). A quantile regression model with an inference based on the median and with an interaction term between the fear of COVID-19 and perceived job insecurity has been used to estimate the hypothesized associations. The results indicated that both perceived job insecurity and fear of COVID-19 were positively associated with depressive symptoms, and that the effect of perceived job insecurity on depressive symptoms was weaker among those with a low fear of COVID-19. The findings may inform public health policies for dentists in relation to reducing the risk of developing negative mental health outcomes.

Diabetic patients display increased risk of periodontitis and failure in bone augmentation procedures. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) represent a relevant advantage in tissue repair process and regenerative medicine. We isolated MSCs from Bichat's buccal fat pad (BFP) and measured the effects of glucose and PRP on cell number and osteogenic differentiation potential. Cells were cultured in the presence of 5.5-mM glucose (low glucose [LG]) or 25-mM glucose (high glucose [HG]). BFP-MSC number was significantly lower when cells were cultured in HG compared with those in LG. Following osteogenic differentiation procedures, calcium accumulation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and expression of osteogenic markers were significantly lower in HG compared with LG. Exposure of BFP-MSC to PRP significantly increased cell number and osteogenic differentiation potential, reaching comparable levels in LG and in HG. Thus, high-glucose concentrations impair BFP-MSC growth and osteogenic differentiation. However, these detrimental effects are largely counteracted by PRP., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

Objectives: To assess the stability of soft tissues around implants by comparing mucosal recessions in patients with keratinized mucosa (test) with patients without keratinized mucosa (control) around osseointegrated dental implants., Method and Materials: The PICO criteria used were as follows: Population, patients with osseointegrated dental implants; Intervention/exposure, presence of a keratinized mucosa; Comparison/control, absence of keratinized mucosa; Outcome, presence or absence of peri-implant mucosal recessions (mm)., Data Sources: An electronic search of Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Oral Health Group specialist trials supplemented by manual searching was conducted to identify studies reporting outcomes of at least 5 years on the presence of mucosal recessions at implants with or without attached mucosa. Mucosal recession (MR) was set as primary outcome. Prospective cohort studies published in English language up to October 2018, with a mean follow-up period of at least 5 years, reporting keratinized tissue height ≥ 2 mm and < 2 mm or presence/absence of keratinized tissue, with fixed implant-supported prostheses. The homogeneity of studies was assessed by DerSimonian and Laird test (Q test). The differences in terms of gingival recession around implants reported between test groups (keratinized mucosa ≥ 2 mm) and control (keratinized mucosa < 2 mm or no keratinized mucosa) were compared. Two studies reporting 201 patients with 514 tissue level implants were selected for the final analysis., Results: Due to the high heterogeneity between the selected studies, no statistical test could be performed. However, in both studies a deeper mucosal recession occurred when keratinized mucosa was < 2 mm: 0.61 ± 0.10 (-0.90; -0.32) and -1.92 ± 0.12 (-2.16; -1.68), respectively., Conclusion: Within their limitations, the findings indicate that after a mean observation period of at least 5 years, the presence of keratinized mucosa may lead to less mucosal recession at dental implants.

Objectives: Presence of clinical attachment loss on the distal aspect to the second molar may be associated with malposition of the third molar. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reduction of clinical attachment loss at the distal aspect of the second molar after third molar extraction and application of leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF)., Method and Materials: Eighteen subjects with a clinical attachment loss on the distal site to the second molar associated with impacted third molar in both sides of the jaw were recruited for the study. For each subject the teeth were randomly allocated in test and control groups. After surgical removal of the impacted third molar, the L-PRF was inserted in the fresh alveolar socket of test sites; in the control sites no graft was inserted after extraction. Full-mouth plaque score, full-mouth bleeding score, clinical attachment level (CAL), probing depth, and gingival recession were assessed at baseline and 6 months later., Results: After 6 months, mean CAL change was 1.99 ± 1.18 mm in the test group and 1.15 ± 1.01 mm in the control group; probing depth change was 1.33 ± 0.87 mm in the test group and 0.50 ± 0.63 mm in the control group. Statistically significant differences (P < .05) were observed between groups in terms of CAL and probing depth changes. No differences were found in gingival recession changes., Conclusion: Within the limits of the present study, the sites treated by means of application of L-PRF after impacted third molar extraction showed better results in terms of CAL gain and probing depth reduction when compared with control sites.

Purpose: To compare the clinical and patient-reported outcomes of ≤6-mm implants with those of ≥10-mm implants placed after both lateral and transcrestal sinus floor elevation., Materials and Methods: Using PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, and Cochrane, a literature search for randomized controlled trials was performed. All the outcome variables were evaluated through a quantitative meta-analysis, and the influence of other clinical covariates were determined with a metaregression. For the survival outcomes, trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed to adjust results for type I and II errors and to analyze the power of the available evidence., Results: After full-text reading, 12 studies were included in the analyses. No statistically significant difference was found after 3 years between the 2 study groups (P = 0.36). Short implants displayed fewer biological complications (P = 0.05), less marginal bone loss (MBL) from implant placement (P < 0.01), and reduced surgical time and treatment cost. However, long implants showed a statistically significant smaller number of prosthetic complications (P = 0.03). TSA confirmed the results of the meta-analysis, revealing that additional studies are needed due to low statistical power of the available evidence., Conclusion: The placement of short implants is a predictable option in treating patients with maxillary atrophy up to a 3-year follow-up. Studies with a longer observational period are needed to study the long-term performance of these implants.

This pilot study evaluates the effectiveness of the Mini-Invasive Surgical Approach (MISA) in the treatment of peri-implantitis defect. MISA is based on the use of the deproteinized bovine bone mineral with 10% collagen in combination with a minimal flap. The main principle is the elevation of a flap to access to the peri-implantitis defect only on one side (palatal aspect), leaving the opposite site intact. The study was designed as a non-controlled, non-randomized pilot study. In 10 consecutive subjects, 10 implants with diagnosis of perimplantitis were selected. In all the treated sites, primary closure was obtained at completion of the surgical procedure. No relevant pain, edema and hematoma were noted. The reported surgical approach resulted in significant clinical and radiographic improvements while limiting patient morbidity. After 1-year follow-up minimal mucosal recession, probing depth reduction and radiographic bone gain were noted., (Copyright 2020 Biolife Sas. www.biolifesas.org.)

Plasma cell mucositis (PCM) is a rare benign disease affecting adults characterized by an erythematous mucosa, an epithelial hyperplasia, and a dense submucosal infiltration of mainly mature plasma cells. PCM has been treated with topical, intralesional, and systemic corticosteroids, antibiotics, and topical cyclosporin with unreliable results and questionable benefits. Here, we present a case of PCM, refractory to previous treatments, treated with i-PRF (injectable platelet-rich fibrin) injections. The infiltrations were performed once a week for 2 months. There were no adverse reactions to the treatment. The pain gradually reduced until the score of zero at the fourth infiltration, and the patient remained free of pain during the whole study period. Clinically, we did not obtain a complete healing of the lesion, but a reduced perilesional inflammatory infiltrate was observed at a distance. Therefore, we can conclude that i-PRF has been effective in the management of pain in PMC but does not result in complete healing of the disease., (© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) accumulate adverse copy number aberrations (CNAs), gains of 1q21, and 17p deletions during disease progression. A subset of these patients develops heightened 1q12 pericentromeric instability and jumping translocations of 1q12 (JT1q12), evidenced by increased copy CNAs of 1q21 and losses in receptor chromosomes (RC). To understand the progression of these aberrations we analyzed metaphase cells of 50 patients with ≥4 CNAs of 1q21 by G-banding, locus specific FISH, and spectral karyotyping. In eight patients with ≥5 CNAs of 1q21 we identified a chromosome instability phenotype similar to that found in ICF syndrome (immunodeficiency, centromeric instability, and facial anomalies). Strikingly, the acquired instability phenotype identified in these patients demonstrates the same transient structural aberrations of 1q12 as those found in ICF syndrome, suggesting similar underlying pathological mechanisms. Four types of clonal aberrations characterize this phenotype including JT1q12s, RC deletions, 1q12-21 breakage-fusion-bridge cycle amplifications, and RC insertions. In addition, recurring transient aberrations include 1q12 decondensation and breakage, triradials, and 1q micronuclei. The acquired self-propagating mobile property of 1q12 satellite DNA drives the continuous regeneration of 1q12 duplication/deletion events. For patients demonstrating this instability phenotype, we propose the term "Jumping 1q Syndrome."

Objective: To evaluate the different behavior of two different human adult adipocytes derived stem cells (hASCs) during proliferation and osteogenic differentiation., Patients and Methods: Human adult adipocytes stem cells (hAT-SCs) from visceral (hAV-SCs) and subcutaneous (hAS-SCs) sites were obtained after surgery procedures of seven patients. All samples were fully investigated and the different proliferation rates were evaluated. All MSCs clusters were cultured with an osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation medium. Homogeneous pools of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) were confirmed by Flow-Cytometry Analysis (FACS) and Spectrophotometric Assay. The differentiated cells were eventually assessed for the expression of Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Alizarin Red (AR) and Oil Red-O (OR-O) detection, and analyzed by the Spectrophotometric Assay. After osteogenic differentiation, the cell clusters were incubated and analyzed with Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) and fluorescence microscopy., Results: The FACS analysis performed on hAT-SCs confirmed the homogenous presence of MSCs in all samples. The ALP, AR stain confirmed the osteogenic differentiation capacity of MSCs towards osteoblast-like-cells. The colorimetric cell metabolic activity (MTS) assay showed an increase in the proliferation rate with different values in both sets hAS-SCs vs. hAV-SCs., Conclusions: These in vitro findings of both hAS-SCs and hAV-SCs suggested an important role of these stem cells for future clinical use in bone regeneration. Indeed, the final outcomes suggested a better performance of cells coming from subcutaneous adipose tissue vs. those from visceral fat tissue.

Purpose: To compare the clinical outcome of fixed prostheses supported by 4- to 8-mm-long implants with prostheses supported by longer implants placed in vertically augmented atrophic mandibles after a follow-up of 5 years in function., Materials and Methods: The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and MEDLINE were searched up to 1st September 2018 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with a follow-up of at least 5 years in function comparing fixed prostheses supported by 4- to 8-mm-long implants with prostheses supported by longer implants placed in vertically augmented atrophic mandibles. Outcome measures were prosthesis failure, implant failures, augmentation procedure failures, complications, and peri-implant marginal bone level changes. Screening of eligible studies, assessment of the risk of bias and data extraction were conducted in duplicate and independently by two review authors. The statistical unit of the analysis was the prosthesis. Results were expressed as random-effects models using mean differences for continuous outcomes and risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals (CIs)., Results: Four eligible RCTs that included originally 135 patients were included. Two RCTs had a parallel-group design and two a split-mouth design. Short implants were 5.0 to 6.6 mm long and were compared with longer implants placed in posterior mandibles augmented with interpositional blocks of bone substitutes. All trials were judged at unclear risk of bias. Twelve (14%) bone augmentation procedures failed to achieve the planned bone height to allow placement of implants with the planned length. Five years after loading, 28 patients (21%) had dropped out from the four RCTs. There were no differences for patients having prosthesis (RR = 1.46; 95% CI: 0.52 to 4.09; P = 0.47; I2 = 0%) or implant (RR = 1.00; 95% CI: 0.31 to 3.21; P = 1.00; I2 = 0%) failures between the two interventions, but there were more patients experiencing complications (RR = 4.72; 95% CI: 2.43 to 9.17; P < 0.00001; I2 = 0%) and peri-implant marginal bone loss (mean difference = 0.60 mm; 95% CI: 0.36 to 0.83; P < 0.00001; I2 = 45%) at longer implants in augmented bone., Conclusions: Five years after loading, prosthetic and implant failures were similar between the two interventions, but complications and peri-implant marginal bone loss were higher and more severe at longer implants placed in vertically augmented mandibles. Larger trials and longer follow-ups up to 10 years after loading are needed to confirm or reject the present preliminary findings. However in the meantime short implants could be the preferable option., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest statement: Several authors of this review were also authors of the included original trials; however, risk of bias assessment was done in duplicate by two authors not involved in the conduction of the original trials. This review was self-funded.

Purpose: To analyse and compare the dimensional changes of unassisted extraction sockets with alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) techniques and investigate any factors that impact the resorption of the alveolar bone., Materials and Methods: A systematic search was conducted to identify randomised clinical trials (RCTs). All data were extracted, and a meta-analysis was performed for the changes in all buccolingual ridge width, midbuccal and midlingual ridge height, and mesial and distal ridge height, and horizontal width at reference points apical to the crestal area., Results: Based on 14 RCTs, the effectiveness of ARP in reducing the dimensions of the postextraction alveolar socket was confirmed. The clinical magnitude of this effect was 1.95 mm in the buccolingual ridge width, 1.62 mm in the midbuccal ridge height, and 1.26 mm on the midlingual ridge height. Additionally, 0.45 mm and 0.34 mm for mesial and distal ridge height, and 1.21 mm, and 0.76 mm for ridge width changes at points 3 and 5 mm apical to the crest were noted. Meta-regression analyses revealed that the reflection of flaps and primary wound coverage during ARP may have detrimental effects on bone remodelling, while no statistical significance was observed for any of the bone graft substitutes or the percentage of molar sockets., Conclusions: Regardless of the protocol, ARP can only minimise ridge resorption. ARP is most effective on horizontal ridge width, providing the most benefit coronally (approximating the crest), followed by the midbuccal ridge height., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest statement: The authors do not have any financial interests either directly or indirectly in the companies whose materials were evaluated in this study. This manuscript was partially supported by the University of Michigan Periodontal Graduate Student Research Fund. This systematic review was presented at the Mini-Invasivity vs Traditional Approach in Periodontology and Implantology - Consensus Conference, 20-22 September 2018, Naples, Italy.

Novel one-piece implants with concave smooth neck have been introduced to promote the formation of a thick mucosal layer and preserve marginal bone. A retrospective study on 70 patients with 1- to 6-year follow-up was carried out. Cumulative survival rates were assessed. Variations of marginal bone level were measured on periapical radiographs as distance of the implant-abutment junction from the bone crest. Influence of different variables on treatment outcome was evaluated. Cumulative success rate after 6 years was 99.4 % at implant level and 98.6 % at patient level. Marginal bone level changed in a significant way over time. After 4 months, an increase of radiographic bone level of 0.173 ± 1.088 mm at implant level and 0.18 ± 1.019 mm at patient level was recorded. Mean marginal bone loss after 5 years was 0.573 ± 0.966 mm at implant level and 0.783 ± 1.213 mm at patient level. Age, sex, smoking habits, implant sites, implant lengths and diameters, prosthetic retentions, and timing of loading did not influence marginal bone remodeling in a statistically significant way. At 4-year follow-up partial restorations lost a mean of 0.96 mm of more marginal bone compared with single restorations. This difference was statistically significant.

Platelet-derived factors are biomaterials that might accelerate healing process in oral, maxillofacial, and several other applications. Release of specific factors by platelet concentrates is critical to achieving a successful outcome. Here, we have shown that platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) clots were beneficial sources of leukocytes, which may directly affect the release of chemokines and growth factors. When compared with the standard leukocyte-PRF (L-PRF), the experimental low-force modified procedure [defined as advanced-PRF (A-PRF)] entrapped the same content of viable leukocytes, released a similar amount of inflammatory cytokines, but secreted 3-, 1.6-, 3-, and 1.2-fold higher levels of Eotaxin, CCL5, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), respectively. A leukocyte-free scaffold, such as plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF), released only platelet-specific factors and, in particular, the F3 fraction, the richest in growth factors, secreted higher amount of CCL5 and PDGF compared to F1 and F2 fractions. In conclusion, different procedures and leukocyte content affect cytokine, chemokines, and growth factor release from platelet derivatives, which may be helpful in different clinical settings.

Background: Considerations about heat generation, wear, and corrosion due to some macrostructural bur components (e.g., cutting lips, rake angle, flute, and helix angle) have been widely reported. However, little is known about how the microstructural components of the implant drill surface can influence the implant drill lifetime and clinical performance., Aim: To investigate accurately the surface morphology of surgical bone drill, by means of multivariate and multidimensional statistical analysis, in order to assess roughness parameters able to predict the evolution of tribological phenomena linked to heat development, wear, and corrosion occurring in clinical use., Materials and Methods: The surfaces of implant drills approximately 2.0mm in diameter made by five manufacturers were examined by means of confocal microscope with white light laser interferometry, obtaining several surface roughness parameters. Statistical multivariate analysis based on discriminant analysis showed, for each cut-off, the parameters which discriminate the manufacturers., Results: The microstructural parameters used by discriminant analysis evidenced several differences in terms of drill surface roughness between the five manufacturers., Conclusions: The observed surface roughness difference of drills is able to predict a different durability and clinical performance especially in heat generation and wear onset.

We evaluated the accuracy of a new scale of surgical difficulty for the extraction of impacted mandibular third molars, which includes consideration of previously underestimated variables. Two hundred patients with impacted third molars were enrolled, and a preoperative clinical and radiographic assessment of difficulty was made by an oral surgeon using the new index. Five oral surgeons with similar degrees of experience then evaluated the surgical difficulty during operation. The kappa test and weighted kappa were used to evaluate the level of agreement between the preoperative and postoperative evaluations. This was 0.73, which indicated a substantial concordance between the preoperative and postoperative assessments of difficulty indicated by the new scale. The linear weight of kappa was 0.8 and the quadratic weight 0.87. We recommend this new scale of surgical difficulty for the extraction of impacted third molars for use in clinical practice., (Copyright © 2017 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: This article describes the digitoclastic technique, an innovative procedure for coronal displacement of the lingual flap. The new technique has the potential to obtain primary flap closure without surgical risks to the anatomical structures on the lingual side of the mandible., Materials and Methods: Reconstruction of an atrophic mandible with guided tissue regeneration (guided bone regeneration) and implant placement is described, using the digitoclastic technique to displace the lingual flap coronally., Results: Coronal flap displacement was sufficient to obtain complete passive coverage of the grafted area. No bleeding or neurosensory complications were recorded, and no membrane exposure occurred., Conclusions: The digitoclastic technique reduces the risk of damage to the lingual nerve and minimizes the amount of bleeding during surgery, allowing progressive and controlled retraction of the flap until the desired detachment is achieved.

Objectives: Research across many fields of medicine now points towards the clinical advantages of combining regenerative procedures with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). This systematic review aimed to gather the extensive number of articles published to date on PRF in the dental field to better understand the clinical procedures where PRF may be utilized to enhance tissue/bone formation., Materials and Methods: Manuscripts were searched systematically until May 2016 and separated into the following categories: intrabony and furcation defect regeneration, extraction socket management, sinus lifting procedures, gingival recession treatment, and guided bone regeneration (GBR) including horizontal/vertical bone augmentation procedures. Only human randomized clinical trials were included for assessment., Results: In total, 35 articles were selected and divided accordingly (kappa = 0.94). Overall, the use of PRF has been most investigated in periodontology for the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects and gingival recessions where the majority of studies have demonstrated favorable results in soft tissue management and repair. Little to no randomized clinical trials were found for extraction socket management although PRF has been shown to significantly decrease by tenfold dry sockets of third molars. Very little to no data was available directly investigating the effects of PRF on new bone formation in GBR, horizontal/vertical bone augmentation procedures, treatment of peri-implantitis, and sinus lifting procedures., Conclusions: Much investigation now supports the use of PRF for periodontal and soft tissue repair. Despite this, there remains a lack of well-conducted studies demonstrating convincingly the role of PRF during hard tissue bone regeneration. Future human randomized clinical studies evaluating the use of PRF on bone formation thus remain necessary., Clinical Relevance: PRF was shown to improve soft tissue generation and limit dimensional changes post-extraction, with little available data to date supporting its use in GBR.

Hyperhaploid clones (24-34 chromosomes) were identified in 33 patients with multiple myeloma (MM), demonstrating a novel numerical cytogenetic subgroup. Strikingly, all hyperhaploid karyotypes were found to harbor monosomy 17p, the single most important risk stratification lesion in MM. A catastrophic loss of nearly a haploid set of chromosomes results in disomies of chromosomes 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 15, 18, 19 and 21, the same basic set of odd-numbered chromosomes found in trisomy in hyperdiploid myeloma. All other autosomes are found in monosomy, resulting in additional clinically relevant monosomies of 1p, 6q, 13q and 16q. Hypotriploid subclones (58-68 chromosomes) were also identified in 11 of the 33 patients and represent a duplication of the hyperhaploid clone. Analysis of clones utilizing interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (iFISH), metaphase FISH and spectral karyotyping identified either monosomy 17 or del17p in all patients. Amplification of 1q21 was identified in eight patients, demonstrating an additional high-risk marker. Importantly, our findings indicate that current iFISH strategies may be uninformative or ambiguous in the detection of these clones, suggesting this patient subgroup maybe underreported. Overall survival for patients with hyperhaploid clones was poor, with a 5-year survival rate of 23.1%. These findings identify a distinct numerical subgroup with cytogenetically defined high-risk disease.