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Abstract Brazil’s public healthcare system (SUS) offers specialized oral health services to Brazilians, but the productivity of specialists, such as Pediatric Dentists, has not been characterized. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the outpatient dental procedures (ODPs) carried out by Pediatric Dentists within the SUS. An epidemiological study with an ecological, longitudinal, retrospective, and quantitative approach was conducted. The ODPs carried out by Pediatric Dentists within the SUS were characterized based on type of procedure, complexity level, and circumstance (urgent or elective). Data were analyzed using a descriptive and analytical approach, considering a significance level of 5%, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic (the 2020-2022 years were not included in secondary analyses). In the last 15 years, 29,234,972 ODPs were carried out by Pediatric Dentists within the SUS. Clinical procedures were the majority (55.4%), significantly more frequent than all other types of procedures (all p 0.05). In addition, low complexity ODPs were the majority (90.1%), significantly more frequent than medium (9.7%) and high complexity procedures (0.1%) (both p

Abstract Dental caries is an important Public Health issue. However, the treatment of this disease in tertiary dental care requires further investigation. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate caries-related hospital morbidity in the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) from 2008 to 2022. An ecological study was conducted with secondary data on caries-related Hospital Admission Authorizations (AIH) and in-hospital dental procedures (IDP). Data were collected nationwide and statistical analysis was performed with a significance level (p) of 5%. In the last 15 years, 3,474 caries-related AIH and 63,657 IDP were approved within SUS. There was a significant upward trend in the number of caries-related AIH (p = 0.018) and a stationary trend in the number of caries-related IDP (p = 0.841). Moreover, from 2008 to 2022, R$ 1,160,843.09 was allocated for caries-related AIH. Hospital mortality was 0.29% (10 deaths), and 75.1% were elective inpatient admissions. Among SUS users, adults constituted the majority (49%), with a higher frequency of males (59.8%) and whites (46.2%). The most frequent type of caries-related IDP was restoration of permanent teeth (55.3%). Nonetheless, during the COVID-19 pandemic years, significant reductions in caries-related AIH and IDP within the SUS were observed (all p

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (B. lactis) HN019 in drinking water on the development of apical periodontitis (AP) in rats. In total 60 animals were divided into a control group (sound teeth); Group I - regular water without AP; Group II - probiotic water without AP; Group III - regular water with AP; Group IV - probiotic water with AP. AP was induced after 3 days in the control groups and after 7, 21, and 42 days in groups III and IV. The animals were euthanized, and the mandibles were subjected to histotechnical processing. Samples were stained with hematoxylin & eosin (H&E) to identify root canal features, apical and periapical regions. Additionally, histoenzymology was performed to detect osteoclasts, immunohistochemistry was used to identify osteoclastogenesis markers, and the Brown & Brenn technique was applied for microbiological analysis. The data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism 8.0.1 with a significance level of 5%. Although no statistical differences were observed, the groups administered with probiotics showed better conditions in terms of histological aspects seen microscopically. Furthermore, there were no differences in the number of osteoclasts (p > 0.05). The RANKL marker was not found in the probiotic group at 42 days, unlike in group III.

Objective: To verify, through clinical and radiographic evaluations, the in vivo response of the dentin-pulpal complex of human primary teeth after pulpotomy with MTA and Biodentine™ in a follow-up period of 3, 6, and 12 months. Material and Methods: Thirty teeth were divided into MTA pulpotomy (n = 15) and Biodentine™ pulpotomy (n = 15) from children between 5 and 9 years of age, a randomized clinical trial with simple random sampling. The materials were inserted into the cavity after opening and removing the coronary pulp tissue. The cavity base consisted of glass ionomer cement and light-cured composite resin restoration. Clinical and radiographic analyses were performed after 3, 6, and 12 months. Statistical analysis by Fisher's exact test for dichotomous data at a 5% significance level was utilized. Results: Both materials caused color change after 12 months. However, MTA showed a higher percentage than Biodentine™ (p

Objective: To investigate the types of restorative materials used for restorative treatment in primary teeth through a retrospective university-based study. Material and Methods: The sample consisted of all clinical records of children attended at the Pediatric Dentistry Clinic at the School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto at the University of São Paulo in Brazil. Inclusion criteria were primary anterior and posterior teeth that received dental restorations for treatment of dental caries lesions, dental trauma or dental development defects from 2013 to 2018. Restoration repairs and interim restorations during this period were also recorded. Descriptive analyzes were performed to assess the distribution according to the type of restorative material used over the years. Results: A total of 5,236 restorative procedures were performed in primary teeth, including restoration repair and interim restorations. Of those, 69% were done in posterior teeth and 31% in anterior teeth. Sixty percent of the procedures performed during this period were made of composite resin and a lower percentage of glass ionomer cement (18%) followed by silver amalgam (1%). The number of interim restorations was smaller but proportional to those of composite resin over the years. Conclusion: A tendency to carry out restorative treatment of primary teeth with composite resin during the 6 years of follow-up was observed.

Abstract Background Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is a potent lipid mediator that stimulate the immune response. Because dental pulp inflammation and dentin repair are intrinsically related responses, the aim of this research was to investigate the potential of LTB4 in inducing differentiation of dental pulp stem cells. Methods Microspheres (MS) loaded with LTB4 were prepared using an oil emulsion solvent extraction evaporation process and sterility, characterization, efficiency of LTB4 encapsulation and in vitro LTB4 release assay were investigated. Mouse dental pulp stem cells (OD-21) were stimulated with soluble LTB4 or MS loaded with LTB4 (0.01 and 0.1 μM). Cytotoxicity and cell viability was determined by lactate dehydrogenase and methylthiazol tetrazolium assays. Gene expression were measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction after 3, 6, 24, 48 and 72 h. Mineralized nodule formation was assessed after 28 days of OD-21 cell stimulation with LTB4 in mineralized media or not. Groups were compared using one-way ANOVA test followed by Dunnett’s post-test (α = 0.05). Results Treatment with LTB4 or MS loaded with LTB4 (0.01 and 0.1 µm-μM) were not cytotoxic to OD-21 cells. Treatment with LTB4 modulated the expression of the Ibsp (integrin binding sialoprotein) and Runx2 (runt-related transcription factor 2) genes differently depending on the experimental period analyzed. Interestingly LTB4 loaded in microspheres (0.1 μM) allowed long term dental pulp cell differentiation and biomineralization. Conclusion LTB4, soluble or loaded in MS, were not cytotoxic and modulated the expression of the Ibsp and Runx2 genes in cultured OD-21 cells. When LTB4 was incorporated into MS, odontoblast differentiation and mineralization was induced in long term culture.

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of XP-endo Finisher (XP) on removal of the smear layer in root canals by comparing different irrigation protocols. Methods: Seventy-two human single-rooted teeth were similarly instrumented using R25 Reciproc files (VDW, Munich, Germany) applied in reciprocating mode with a VDW GOLD endo motor (VDW, Munich, Germany). The working length was determined at 1 mm short of the apical foramen. The canals were irrigated with 5 mL of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite during instrumentation. The teeth were divided at random into six groups (n=12). A control group, which was not submitted to the final irrigation protocol, and five experimental groups with different irrigants and agitation techniques: EDTA/File, EDTA/XP, EDTA/Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation (PUI), Distilled Water (DW)/XP, and DW/PUI). Smear layer removal quality scores were assessed in the apical, middle, and cervical thirds of the root canal based on images obtained by scanning electron microscopy. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by two-by-two comparisons with the Dunn test (α=5%). Results: EDTA/File, EDTA/PUI, and EDTA/XP groups demonstrated significantly lower scores than the other groups (P 0.05). Conclusion: The XP-endo Finisher file did not increase the efficiency of EDTA in removal of the smear layer in root canals.

Introdução: A síndrome de deleção 2q37.3 é uma desordem causada pela microdeleção de uma sub-banda no cromossomo 2, cuja epidemiologia é de aproximadamente 150 casos no mundo, e a incidência de 1:10000. As características da síndrome são: atraso no desenvolvimento, dismorfia facial, anormalidades musculoesqueléticas e aumento ao risco de doenças congênitas. O objetivo deste relato de caso é apresentar, pela primeira vez na literatura, os achados clínicos orais e dentários associados à síndrome. Relato de caso: As principais características físicas da síndrome foram identificadas na paciente durante o exame físico: lábio superior fino, columela proeminente e dobras epicânticas. No exame intraoral, relatou-se as características odontológicas, que podem estar associadas à síndrome: acúmulo de cálculo dental, hipomineralização e hipoplasia, mordida cruzada, mordida aberta, agenesias, taurodontia e cisto dentígero. O tratamento dental consistiu na aplicação de técnicas de manejo de comportamento, instrução de higiene e de dieta, profilaxia, raspagem supragengival, aplicação tópica de flúor, além da extração do segundo molar decíduo inferior. Este é o primeiro relato de características orais da síndrome de deleção 2q37.3 dando importância às características observadas nesta paciente. Tais achados também serão úteis na caracterização da síndrome, que é extremamente rara, podendo contribuir para o diagnóstico clínico desses pacientes, além de subsidiar o tratamento odontológico de outros indivíduos. Conclusão: Apresentamos os achados clínicos orais como hipomineralização e hipoplasia, mordida cruzada e aberta, agenesia, taurodontia e cisto dentígero presentes na paciente com a síndrome e sugerimos que o gene envolvido ou sua deleção possam ser responsáveis por tais achados.

Background: Tooth enamel mineralization is assumed to be a target of endogenous estrogen imbalances. Objective: To evaluate the effect of estrogen deficiency during amelogenesis on the mineral composition of dental enamel. Methods: Ten female Wistar Hannover rats were randomly divided into two groups according to the intervention received: ovariectomy surgery (OVX, experimental) and fictitious surgery (SHAM, control). After 21 days, the rats of both groups were euthanized, and the upper incisors were extracted for analysis of the mineral composition by energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence. The sensitivity of the enamel organ to estrogen was evaluated in both groups by immunohistochemical analysis of the odontogenic region of the lower incisors for the presence of estrogen receptors alpha and beta (ERα and ERβ, respectively) in ameloblasts in the maturation stage. Differences in the mineral composition between groups were compared using Student’s t-test (P < 0.05). Results: No statistically significant difference was detected in the mineral composition between the OVX and SHAM groups (P > 0.05). ERα was immunostained in the ameloblasts of both groups. Conclusion: Although ameloblasts express ERα, estrogen deficiency during amelogenesis did not appear to affect the dental enamel composition in this murine model.

Abstract Background The aim of the present study was to assess if genetic polymorphisms in tooth agenesis (TA)-related genes are associated with craniofacial morphological patterns. Methods This cross-sectional, multi-center, genetic study evaluated 594 orthodontic Brazilians patients. The presence or absence of TA was determined by analysis of panoramic radiography. The patients were classified according to their skeletal malocclusion and facial growth pattern by means of digital cephalometric analysis. Genomic DNA was extracted from squamous epithelial cells of buccal mucosa and genetic polymorphisms in MSX1 (rs1042484), PAX9 (rs8004560), TGF-α (rs2902345), FGF3 (rs1893047), FGF10 (rs900379), and FGF13 (rs12838463, rs5931572, and rs5974804) were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction using TaqMan chemistry and end-point analysis. Results Genotypes (p = 0.038) and allele (p = 0.037) distributions for the FGF3 rs1893047 were significantly different according to the skeletal malocclusion. Carrying at least one G allele increased in more than two times the chance of presenting skeletal class III malocclusion (OR = 2.21, CI 95% = 1.14–4.32; p = 0.017). There was no association between another skeletal craniofacial pattern and some polymorphism assessed in the present study. Conclusion Our results suggest that the genetic polymorphism rs1893047 in FGF3 might contribute to variations in the craniofacial sagittal pattern.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate demographic and clinical factors involved in the immediate seeking of care after traumatic dental injury (TDI) in Brazilian children. Materials and Methods: Records from 74 patients, age ranged 1–11 years, who sought treatment at the School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto at University of São Paulo, Brazil, were collected. Data was analyzed using the Epi Info 7.0 software by t-test, odds ratio calculation, Chi-square, or Fisher's exact tests. Results: Twenty-three (31.1%) sought dental treatment immediately and 51 (68.9%) did not seek dental treatment immediately. The most common type of trauma was lateral luxation (44.6%). In primary teeth, 31 cases (60.78%) involved the soft tissue and 16 (39.2%) involved hard tissue injuries. While in permanent teeth, 20 cases (40%) involved soft tissue and 24 (60%) involved hard tissue injuries had more traumas in the hard tissue (P = 0.04). The type of injury and dentition was not associated with the time that the guardians sought dental treatment (P > 0.05). None of the factors were involved in immediately seeking care after TDI. Conclusion: Moreover, the majority of parents/caregivers did not immediately seek dental treatment after TDI, regardless of the type of injury.

Objective: To evaluate the physical conditions and presence of residues of toothbrushes used by mothers and their babies and mothers' knowledge about toothbrush care. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study comprising a convenience sample represented by 60 mother-baby pairs. The mothers answered a questionnaire to evaluate their knowledge of toothbrush care. A calibrated dentist performed a visual inspection of the toothbrushes. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests, with a significance level of 5%. Results: It was found that 82% of the mothers had never received instructions regarding the care of toothbrushes after use (p=0.024). Most of them believed that their toothbrushes (70%) and their children’s toothbrushes (88%) were in good condition to use (p=0.043). However, most mother’s toothbrushes presented an unacceptable deformity of the bristles (65%) and the presence of residues (60%). In addition, babies’ toothbrushes also presented unacceptable deformities of the bristles (52%) and residues (55%). There was an association between the lack of instructions received by the mother and the presence of deformity and residues on the mother’s toothbrush bristles (p=0.037 and p=0.003, respectively). Conclusion: Most mothers had never received instructions regarding toothbrush care, which is reflected in the condition of their and their baby’s toothbrushes, which presented unacceptable physical conditions concerning deformation and presence of residues.

Objective: To evaluate the physical conditions and presence of residues of toothbrushes used by mothers and their babies and mothers' knowledge about toothbrush care. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study comprising a convenience sample represented by 60 mother-baby pairs. The mothers answered a questionnaire to evaluate their knowledge of toothbrush care. A calibrated dentist performed a visual inspection of the toothbrushes. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests, with a significance level of 5%. Results: It was found that 82% of the mothers had never received instructions regarding the care of toothbrushes after use (p=0.024). Most of them believed that their toothbrushes (70%) and their children’s toothbrushes (88%) were in good condition to use (p=0.043). However, most mother’s toothbrushes presented an unacceptable deformity of the bristles (65%) and the presence of residues (60%). In addition, babies’ toothbrushes also presented unacceptable deformities of the bristles (52%) and residues (55%). There was an association between the lack of instructions received by the mother and the presence of deformity and residues on the mother’s toothbrush bristles (p=0.037 and p=0.003, respectively). Conclusion: Most mothers had never received instructions regarding toothbrush care, which is reflected in the condition of their and their baby’s toothbrushes, which presented unacceptable physical conditions concerning deformation and presence of residues.

El objetivo de este estudio in vitro fue analizar la rugosidad superficial y la alteración de color de dos tipos de ionómeros vítreos luego de ser sometidos a diferentes soluciones. En una matriz de teflón (8x2mm), fueron confeccionados 60 cuerpos de prueba con 2 tipos de ionómeros fotopolimerizables: 30 para el Fuji II LC (M1) y otros 30 para el Ketac N100 (M2). El aparato utilizado fue el Elipar Freelight 2 3M Espe. La fotopolimerización se realizó por 20 segundos cada cuerpo de prueba. Luego de la confección, los sesenta cuerpos de prueba fueron mantenidos en gasa humedecida por 24 hs en estufa a 37ºC y luego se clasificaron y luego se dividieron en tres grupos de 10 cada uno para ser sometidos a 3 tipos diferentes de soluciones: agua destilada (S1), bebida carbonatada (S2) y jugo cítrico (S3) por 90 segundos diariamente durante 14 días. Las lecturas de la alteración de color, obtenidas a través de un colorímetro, y las de rugosidad superficial, realizadas por medio del rugosímetro, fueron realizadas a las 48 hs. (T0) y luego a los 14 días (T1). Los resultados obtenidos fueron sometidos al test ANOVA y Tukey (p?0.05). Los resultados mostraron que; a) La bebida carbonatada (S2) tuvo mayor media de alteración de color (?E*) en relación a las otras soluciones, b) que Ketac N100 (M2) tuvo mayor media con respecto a la rugosidad superficial en la interacción material por solución. Por tanto, se concluyó que trascurrido determinado período de tiempo las propiedades estéticas y físico-mecánicas de los materiales estudiados se ven afectados.

Objetivo. Revisar la literatura sobre la filosofía en Odontología para Bebés. Síntesis de datos. A pesar de que la promoción de la salud es muy practicada en todas las áreas de la salud, la odontología se caracteriza por restar importancia a la prevención de enfermedades bucales y a los tratamientos preventivos, cuando estos son realizados, ya los dientes deciduos se encuentran altamente comprometidos por la caries dental. Los resultados alcanzados a través de la enseñanza de tratamiento odontológico a bebés, en diferentes partes del mundo, tienen un futuro promisorio, ya que enfatiza las particularidades de su crecimiento y desarrollo infantil, considera al bebé como un todo, y no solamente desde el punto de vista de salud bucal. Conclusiones. La buena práctica de la odontología para bebés brinda la posibilidad de fomentar la salud y prevenir la enfermedad, de una forma muy simple, eficaz y de bajo costo.

Abstract Background Bisphenol A (BPA) is released from orthodontic composites used for bracket bonding. Genetic variations could modify the metabolism of this chemical within the organism. Considering that free BPA binds to estrogen receptors causing harmful effects to health, the present in vivo study aimed to evaluate the association between genetic polymorphisms in genes encoding estrogen receptors (ESR1 and ESR2) and excreted BPA levels in orthodontic patients. Methods Quantification of BPA levels in the urine of 16 patients was performed in a gas chromatograph mass spectrometer before (T0), at 24 h (T1), and 1 week (T2) after bracket bonding. DNA was extracted from saliva, and one genetic polymorphism in ESR1 (rs2234693) and two in ESR2 (rs4986938 and rs1256049) were analyzed by real-time PCR. Increases in BPA levels in the urine at T1 and T2 were grouped according to the genotype, and mean differences were compared by unpaired T test or Mann-Whitney test according to the normality of the data. The established alpha was 5%. Results BPA levels increased significantly at T1 and T2. There were no statistically significant differences in the increases in BPA levels according to the genotype for any genetic polymorphism (P > 0.05), at neither 24 h nor 1 week after bracket bonding. Conclusions The results suggested that there are no association between excreted BPA levels after bracket bonding and the evaluated genetic polymorphisms in ESR1 and ESR2. Further research should be performed in order to confirm these results.

El objetivo de este estudio in vitro fue analizar la rugosidad superficial y la alteración de color de dos tipos de ionómeros vítreos luego de ser sometidos a diferentes soluciones. En una matriz de teflón (8x2mm), fueron confeccionados 60 cuerpos de prueba con 2 tipos de ionómeros fotopolimerizables: 30 para el Fuji II LC (M1) y otros 30 para el Ketac N100 (M2). El aparato utilizado fue el Elipar Freelight 2 3M Espe. La fotopolimerización se realizó por 20 segundos cada cuerpo de prueba. Luego de la confección, los sesenta cuerpos de prueba fueron mantenidos en gasa humedecida por 24 hs en estufa a 37ºC y luego se clasificaron y luego se dividieron en tres grupos de 10 cada uno para ser sometidos a 3 tipos diferentes de soluciones: agua destilada (S1), bebida carbonatada (S2) y jugo cítrico (S3) por 90 segundos diariamente durante 14 días. Las lecturas de la alteración de color, obtenidas a través de un colorímetro, y las de rugosidad superficial, realizadas por medio del rugosímetro, fueron realizadas a las 48 hs. (T0) y luego a los 14 días (T1). Los resultados obtenidos fueron sometidos al test ANOVA y Tukey (p≤0.05). Los resultados mostraron que; a) La bebida carbonatada (S2) tuvo mayor media de alteración de color (ΔE*) en relación a las otras soluciones, b) que Ketac N100 (M2) tuvo mayor media con respecto a la rugosidad superficial en la interacción material por solución. Por tanto, se concluyó que trascurrido determinado período de tiempo las propiedades estéticas y físico-mecánicas de los materiales estudiados se ven afectados.

Objetivo. Revisar la literatura sobre la filosofía en Odontología para Bebés. Síntesis de datos. A pesar de que la promoción de la salud es muy practicada en todas las áreas de la salud, la odontología se caracteriza por restar importancia a la prevención de enfermedades bucales y a los tratamientos preventivos, cuando estos son realizados, ya los dientes deciduos se encuentran altamente comprometidos por la caries dental. Los resultados alcanzados a través de la enseñanza de tratamiento odontológico a bebés, en diferentes partes del mundo, tienen un futuro promisorio, ya que enfatiza las particularidades de su crecimiento y desarrollo infantil, considera al bebé como un todo, y no solamente desde el punto de vista de salud bucal. Conclusiones. La buena práctica de la odontología para bebés brinda la posibilidad de fomentar la salud y prevenir la enfermedad, de una forma muy simple, eficaz y de bajo costo.

Sex hormones have an effect on bone metabolism. However, it remains unclear how estrogen hormone affects mandible and maxilla growth and development. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review to evaluate if estrogen is associated with developmental alterations in the maxilla/mandible phenotype. Material and methods: A computer search of the literature was performed using: Pubmed Medline (1966 – August 2018), Google Scholar and manual searching. A combination of the terms ‘estrogens', ‘mandible’, ‘dental arch’, ‘maxilla’, ‘craniofacial’, ‘growth’ and ‘development’ was used. Studies that used animal models to evaluate the role of estrogen during growth and development on the dimensions of the maxilla and/or mandible were included. Results: 5 studies were selected to compose this systematic review. One study used zebrafish as a model. Two studies used female mice and 2 studies used female rats as a model. Two studies treated the animals with estrogen. Four studies demonstrated that estrogen has an effect on mandible dimension and 2 studies demonstrated that estrogen has an effect on maxilla. One study did find an association between estrogen deficiency and mandible/maxilla dimensions Conclusion: The current evidence suggested that both, increased and decreased levels of estrogen, have an effect on the maxilla and mandible dimensions.

Abstract Objectives Enamel demineralization is among the main topics of interest in the orthodontic field. Self-ligating brackets have been regarded as advantageous in this aspect. The aim of this study was to evaluate the break homeostasis in the oral environment and the levels of microorganisms associated with dental caries among the different types of brackets. Material and Methods Twenty patients received two self-ligating brackets: In-Ovation®R, SmartClipTM, and one conventional GeminiTM. Saliva was collected before bonding (S0), 30 (S1) and 60 (S2) days after bonding. One sample of each bracket was removed at 30 and 60 days for the in situ analysis. Checkerboard DNA-DNA Hybridization was employed to evaluate the levels of microbial species as-sociated with dental caries. Data were evaluated by nonparametric Friedman and Wilcoxon tests at 5% significance level. Results The salivary levels of L. casei (p=0.033), S. sobrinus (p=0.011), and S. sanguinis (p=0.004) increased in S1. The in situ analyses showed alteration in S. mutans (p=0.047), whose highest levels were observed to the In-Ovation®R. Conclusions The orthodontic appliances break the salivary homeostasis of microorganisms involved in dental caries. The contamination pattern was different between self-ligating and conventional brackets. The In-Ovation®R presented worse performance considering the levels of cariogenic bacterial species.

Background. Polymer bur is a new technology that proposes to conserve the dentin that is capable of remineralization. Aim: To conduct a quantitative systematic review to evaluate the effect of polymer burs on the reduction of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus after dentin carious excavation in deciduous teeth. Methods and Material: Two reviewers performed the database to identify the relevant clinical papers. Only papers in English that compared polymer burs with other caries removal techniques with the microbiological aspects as an outcome were included. Papers that evaluated only permanent teeth were excluded. Risk of bias was also assessed. Individual study effect sizes were calculated using Cohen’s d formula for the comparisons of microorganism reduction before and after carious excavation. Results: The search resulted in 12 non-duplicated papers. After the revision, only 2 were selected. The quantitative evaluation demonstrated that polymer bur reduces microorganism levels in carious dentin. The larger effect size observed was for Streptococcus mutans in the polymer bur technique (r=0.84; d=3.12), followed by Lactobacillus in the carbide bur technique (r=0.83; d=3.03). Conclusion: Polymer burs promoted a significant reduction of microorganism levels, mainly Streptococcus mutans in carious dentin.

Hemangioma is a benign vascular tumor that affects 3%–10% of the population and usually does not require specific treatment due to spontaneous regression. The purpose of this paper is to present a case report of a child having been born prematurely and diagnosed with hemangioma in the head and neck, emphasizing the dentofacial changes and treatment used to provide care. Severe fibrous scars were found in the perioral region and below the ear that limited the patient's ability to open her mouth. The child exhibited anterior open bite as well as dental caries in the lower jaw, hypomineralization, and enamel hypoplasia. Treatment consisted of dietary and oral hygiene orientations, dental prophylaxis, topical 1:23% acidulated phosphate fluoride gel, removal of the carious tissue, sealing with glass ionomer cement, and extraction. Dentists need to have knowledge on hemangioma for a proper diagnosis and the optimization of dental treatment.

Abstract Objective To evaluate and correlate, in the same research, the mRNA expression and the staining of RANK, RANKL, OPG, TLR2 and MyD88 by immunohistochemistry in the apical periodontitis (AP) progression in mice. Material and Methods AP was induced in the lower first molars of thirty-five C57BL/6 mice. They were assigned to four groups according to their euthanasia periods (G0, G7, G21 and G42). The jaws were removed and subjected to histotechnical processing, immunohistochemistry and real-time reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR). Data were analyzed with parametric and nonparametric tests (α=0.05). Results An increase of positive immunoreactivity for RANK, RANKL, OPG, TLR2 and MyD88 was observed over time (p

Abstract Objectives Using two groups of mini-implants (successful and failed) the objectives of this in vivo study were: to evaluate the microbial contamination by the checkerboard DNA-DNA hybridization technique and to quantify the bacterial endotoxin by the limulus amebocyte lysate assay. Material and Methods The 15 successful and 10 failed mini-implants (1.6 mm diameter × 7.0 or 9.0 mm long), placed in the maxilla and/or mandible, were obtained from 15 patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Data were analyzed statistically by the Wilcoxon rank-sum test using the SAS software (a=0.05). Results All 40 microbial species were detected in both groups of mini-implants, with different frequencies. No differences were observed between the groups with respect to microbial complexes (blue, purple, yellow, green, orange, red and other species) and endotoxin quantification (p>0.05). Conclusion Neither microbial contamination nor endotoxin quantification was determinant for the early loss of stability of the mini-implants.

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the association between hypoxia during embryo development and oral clefts in an animal model, and to evaluate the association between polymorphisms in the HIF-1A gene with oral clefts in human families. Material and Methods The study with the animal model used zebrafish embryos at 8 hours post-fertilization submitted to 30% and 50% hypoxia for 24 hours. At 5 days post-fertilization, the larvae were fixed. The cartilage structures were stained to evaluate craniofacial phenotypes. The family-based association study included 148 Brazilian nuclear families with oral clefts. The association between the genetic polymorphisms rs2301113 and rs2057482 in HIF-1A with oral clefts was tested. We used real time PCR genotyping approach. ANOVA with Tukey's post-test was used to compare means. The transmission/disequilibrium test was used to analyze the distortion of the inheritance of alleles from parents to their affected offspring. Results For the hypoxic animal model, the anterior portion of the ethmoid plate presented a gap in the anterior edge, forming a cleft. The hypoxia level was associated with the severity of the phenotype (p0.05). Conclusion Hypoxia is involved in the oral cleft etiology, however, polymorphisms in HIF-1A are not associated with oral clefts in humans.

Either obesity and underweight are public health concerns that affect the development of children. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the nutritional status affects permanent tooth eruption chronology in Brazilian children. Methods: A hundred sixty children were examined by a pediatric dentistry and at the clinical examination, the number of erupted permanent teeth was evaluated. The anthropometric measurements of the children were determined, and they were divided into groups: underweight, eutrophic, overweight and obese. The association between delayed tooth eruption and nutritional status groups was evaluated using chi-square test. The Shapiro–Wilk test was used to verify the normality of the data. To compare the mean number of delayed teeth according to nutritional status’ groups Kruskal-Wallis test with multiple comparison by Dunn's test was performed. Results: Fifty-six children had delayed tooth eruption in at least one permanent teeth and delayed tooth eruption was more common in underweight children than in eutrophic children (p=0.0091). Conclusion: In conclusion, our study suggests that underweight Brazilian children have a higher incidence of delayed eruption.

Objectives To evaluate the microbial contamination of pacifiers by Mutans Streptococci(MS) and the efficacy of different methods for their disinfection.Methods Twenty-eight children were assigned to a 4-stage changeover system with a 1-week interval. In each stage, children received a new pacifier and the parents were instructed to maintain their normal habits for 1 week. After this time, the pacifiers were subjected to the following 4 disinfection methods: spraying with 0.12% chlorhexidine solution, Brushtox® or sterile tap water, and immersion in boiling tap water for 15 minutes. Microbiological culture for MS and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were performed. The results were analyzed statistically by Friedman’s non-parametric test (a=0.05).Results The 0.12% chlorhexidine spray was statistically similar to the boiling water (p>0.05) and more effective than the Brushtox®spray and control (p

The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro the amount and profile of fluoride release from a fluoride-containing nanohybrid composite resin (Tetric® N-Ceram) by direct potentiometry. Thirty specimens (5 mm diameter x 3 mm high; n=10/material) were made of Tetric® N-Ceram, Vitremer® resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) (positive control) or Filtek® Z350 nanofill composite resin (negative control). The specimens were stored individually in plastic tubes containing 1 mL of artificial saliva at 37°C, which was daily renewed during 15 days. At each renewal of saliva, the amount of fluoride ions released in the solution was measured using a fluoride ion-selective electrode with ion analyzer, and the values obtained in mV were converted to ppm (µg/mL). Data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc test at a significance level of 5%. The results showed that the resins Tetric® N-Ceram and Filtek® Z350 did not release significant amounts of fluoride during the whole period of evaluation (p>0.05). Only Vitremer® released significant amounts of fluoride ions during the 15 days of the experiment, with greater release in first 2 days (p0.05). In conclusion, the nanohybrid composite resin Tetric® N-Ceram did not present in vitro fluoride-releasing capacity throughout the 15 days of study.

The purpose of this study was to report the clinical findings, dental treatment, and improvement in quality of life for a child with Rothmund-Thomson syndrome. The patient had alopecia, delayed speech, low weight and height, cholestasis, and iron deficiency anemia. Furthermore, there were carious lesions and darkened spots on all primary molars. Microdontia of a premolar was observed at the radiographic examination. The patient and family had no commitment to her oral health and dental treatment at first appointments. Oral hygiene instructions, composite restorations, endodontic treatments, teeth extractions, and stainless steel crown installations were performed. The patient was followed up for 7 years through the present due to other possible future clinical findings associated with the syndrome. An improvement in social aspects was observed after removal of toothache and improved esthetics. Such patients need continuous periodic services, which contributes to improving the quality of life in both buccal and general aspects.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between tooth agenesis and skeletal malocclusions in Brazilian non-syndromic orthodontic patients. Material and Methods: Pretreatment orthodontic records of 348 patients of both genders and with various skeletal malocclusions were examined. Tooth agenesis was evaluated in panoramic radiographs. Angular measurements were taken from lateral cephalometric radiographs to classify the patient’s malocclusion as skeletal Class I, Class II and Class III. Subjects were divided into 2 groups, “with tooth agenesis” and “without tooth agenesis”. Chi-square or Fisher exact test was used to compare categorical data. ANOVA with Tukey’s post-test was used for means comparisons. An alpha of 5% was established. Results: From 348 analysed patients, 28 presented tooth agenesis. There was no difference between genders (P = 0.27) nor mean age (P = 0.16). The most prevalent skeletal malocclusion was Class I (63.11%), followed by Class II (25.94%), and Class III (10.95%). The mean of congenitally missing teeth was 1.3 (SD 0.13). Thirteen subjects had premolar agenesis, 13 upper lateral incisor agenesis, 4 lower incisor agenesis and 2 molars agenesis. The group with tooth agenesis presented A point-nasion-B point (ANB) angle smaller (1.66 [SD 2.52]) than the group without tooth agenesis (2.86 [SD 2.49]) (P = 0.01). ANB angle had a negative correlation with the number of congenitally missing teeth (P = 0.039; r = -0.39). Conclusions: Tooth agenesis is associated with a smaller A point-nasion-B point angle and is negatively correlated with the number of congenitally missing teeth.

Precise techniques for the measurement of maxillary bone mineral density (BMD) are useful for the early diagnosis of systemic diseases. The aim of this study was to compare in vivo the efficacy of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and radiographic densitometry for the measurement of BMD after systemic administration of sodium alendronate. Wistar rats were randomly allocated to a control group (n = 5), which received distilled water, and a sodium alendronate group (n = 8), which received two doses of chemically pure sodium alendronate (1 mg/kg) per week. After 8 weeks, the animals were euthanized, the tibias were removed, and the BMD of the proximal tibial metaphysis was analyzed radiographically and by DXA. The data were subjected to statistical analysis by the Kruskal-Wallis test at a significance level of 5%. Both of the techniques revealed that the alendronate-treated group had a significantly higher BMD (p < 0.05) than the control group after 8 weeks of treatment. Comparing the groups with and without alendronate therapy revealed increases of 14.9% and 29.6% in BMD, as detected radiographically and by DXA, respectively. In conclusion, both of the methods were able to detect an increase in BMD of the proximal tibial metaphysis after alendronate therapy.

The aim of this paper is to present the clinical and radiological outcome of the treatment involving a delayed tooth replantation after an avulsed immature permanent incisor, with a follow-up of 1 year and 6 months. An 8-year-old boy was referred after dental trauma that occurred on the previous day. The permanent maxillary right central incisor (tooth 11) had been avulsed. The tooth was hand-held during endodontic therapy and an intracanal medication application with calcium hydroxide-based paste was performed. An apical plug with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) was introduced into the apical portion of the canal. When the avulsed tooth was replanted with digital pressure, a blood clot had formed within the socket, which moved the MTA apical plug about 2 mm inside of the root canal. These procedures developed apical revascularization, which promoted a successful endodontic outcome, evidenced by apical closure, slight increase in root length, and absence of signs of external root resorption, during a follow-up of 1 year and 6 months.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to evaluate in situ the occurrence of corrosion in the soldering point areas between the wire, silver brazing and band in Haas expanders. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty-four 7-12-year-old patients who needed maxillary expansion with a Haas expander were randomly assigned to two groups of 17 individuals each, according to the oral hygiene protocol adopted during the orthodontic treatment: Group I (control), toothbrushing with a fluoride dentifrice and Group II (experimental), toothbrushing with the same dentifrice plus 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate (Periogard®) mouthrinses twice a week. The appliances were removed after approximately 4 months. Fragments of the appliances containing a metallic band with a soldered wire were sectioned at random for examination by stereomicroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Data were analyzed statistically by Fisher's test at 5% significance level. RESULTS: The analysis by optical microscopy revealed areas with color change suggestive of corrosion in the soldering point areas joining the band and the wire in all specimens of both groups, with no statistically significant difference between the groups (p=1). The peaks of chemical elements (Ni, Fe, Cr, O, C and P) revealed by EDS were also similar in both groups. CONCLUSION: Color changes and peaks of chemical elements suggestive of corrosion were observed in the soldering point areas between the wire, silver brazing and band in both control and experimental groups, which indicate that the 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthrinses did not influence the occurrence of corrosion in situ.

Objective. This case report describes the changes in caries risk and activity and dental treatment of a 9-year-old patient who presented with signs and symptoms of Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC). Treatment. The preventive dental treatment included instructions to caregivers for oral hygiene and diet. A calcium hydroxide pulpotomy and restorative dental treatments were performed in a dental office with desensitization techniques and behavioral management. The patient was attended every 3 months for the control of dental plaque biofilm, for topical fluoride application, and for observing the pulpotomized tooth. Results. The bacterial plaque biofilm was being adequately controlled by the caregiver. After 2 years, the clinical and radiographic examination of the pulpotomized tooth showed the absence of internal root resorption and bone rarefaction, and clinical examination showed tooth sensitivity, dental pain, and gingival swelling. Conclusion. The pulpotomy prevented clinical and radiographic success. Dentists must be aware of and be able to identify systemic and local aspects associated with caries risk of children with NPC disease. Furthermore, dentists must employ stringent preventive measures and provide instructions to caregivers to reduce caries risk.

Purpose: The present study aims to evaluate, ex vivo, the accuracy of electronic apex locators Root ZX II and Romiapex-15, for working length (WL) determination in permanent teeth. Materials and Methods: Fourteen single-rooted teeth (incisors and canines), with their apices fully formed were used. The dental crowns were removed. The anatomic length of the tooth (real measurement) was visually determined through the insertion of a size 10 K-file until the tip of the instrument could be observed in the apical foramen under a microscope (20X). Teeth were fixed in a model of resin and adapted into alginate soaked with saline solution, which was used as an electrical conductor. Using a K-file, root canals were measured electronically using both devices. The results obtained for each apex locator were compared to the real measurements. The accuracy between the devices was statistically analyzed using the Bland-Altman graph, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), and Student’s t-test. Results: The mean difference between the measurements using the Root ZX II was 0.277mm greater than the real measurement, while the measurements from the Romiapex-15 were 0.308mm higher on average. The comparison between Root ZX II and Romiapex-15 had no significant difference (p= 0.868). Conclusion: It was concluded that Root ZX II and Romiapex-15 had similar accuracy. Romiapex-15 could be an option for WL determination in permanent teeth.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial action of root canal mechanical preparation using 2.5% sodium hypochlorite as the irrigating solution and a calcium hydroxide paste as the antibacterial intracanal dressing in human primary teeth root canals with pulp necrosis and apical periodontitis by means of microbial culture. A total of 26 root canals of human primary teeth with pulp necrosis and apical periodontitis were used. Samples were collected before, 72h after biomechanical treatment and 72h after removal of the intracanal dressing. Comparison by Wilcoxon test showed that root canal mechanical preparation effectively eliminated all microorganisms in 20% of the root canals, and the intracanal dressing in 62.5%; however, the cumulative action of biomechanical treatment and intracanal dressing eliminated the microorganisms of 70% of the root canals (pO objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar, por meio de cultura bacteriológica, a ação antibacteriana do preparo biomecânico utilizando como solução irrigadora o hipoclorito de sódio a 2,5% e da pasta Calen utilizada como curativo de demora em canais radiculares de dentes decíduos de humanos com necrose pulpar e lesão periapical. Foram selecionados 26 dentes decíduos de humanos portadores de necrose pulpar e lesão periapical. As colheitas microbiológicas foram efetuadas antes e 72 horas após o preparo biomecânico e 72 horas após a remoção do curativo de demora. A comparação por meio do teste de Wilcoxon mostrou que o preparo biomecânico foi eficaz na eliminação dos microrganismos dos canais radiculares em 20% dos casos e o curativo de demora em 62,5%, enquanto que a ação cumulativa do preparo biomecânico e do curativo de demora eliminou os microrganismos em 70,0% dos casos (p

This study evaluated the biocompatibility of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) after direct capping of exposed pulp tissue in dog's teeth. Class I cavities were prepared in 26 teeth from 3 adult dogs. MTA was applied over the exposed pulp in 13 teeth and paste of calcium hydroxide plus distilled water (control) was applied in the remaining 13 teeth. After 90 days, the animals were killed; the maxilla and mandible were dissected and sectioned to obtain individual roots. The samples were processed histologically. The pulp and periapical response observed with the use of MTA was similar to that of calcium hydroxide paste. In all specimens, there was a dentin bridge obliterating the exposure, an intact odontoblastic layer, no inflammatory cells, normal connective pulp tissue, normal apical and periapical regions and no bone tissue changes. Similar to calcium hydroxide, MTA presented excellent response when used for direct pulp capping.O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a biocompatibilidade do agregado de trióxido mineral (MTA), após proteção pulpar direta em dentes de cães. Foram preparadas cavidades de Classe I, em 26 dentes de 3 cães adultos. O MTA foi aplicado sobre 13 dentes e a pasta de hidróxido de cálcio (grupo controle) foi aplicada sobre os 13 dentes remanescentes. Após 90 dias, os animais foram mortos, a maxila e a mandíbula foram dissecadas e os dentes foram seccionados para obtenção de raízes individualizadas. Os espécimes foram processados histologicamente. A resposta do tecido pulpar e periapical foi semelhante para o MTA e o hidróxido de cálcio. Em todos os espécimes havia ponte de dentina obliterando o local da exposição pulpar, camada odontoblástica íntegra, ausência de células inflamatórias, tecido pulpar normal, e ausência de alterações na região periapical e óssea. Da mesma maneira que o hidróxido de cálcio, o MTA apresentou excelente biocompatibilidade quando usado para proteção pulpar direta.

New knowledge of the structure and biological activity of endotoxins (LPS) has revolutionized concepts concerning their mechanisms of action and forms of inactivation. Since the 1980's, technological advances in microbiological culture and identification have shown that anaerobic microorganisms, especially Gram-negative, predominate in root canals of teeth with pulp necrosis and radiographically visible chronic periapical lesions. Gram-negative bacteria not only have different factors of virulence and generate sub-products that are toxic to apical and periapical tissues, as also contain endotoxin (LPS) on their cell wall. This is especially important because endotoxin is released during multiplication or bacterial death, causing a series of biological effects that lead to an inflammatory reaction and resorption of mineralized tissues. Thus, due to the role of endotoxin in the pathogenesis of periapical lesions, we reviewed the literature concerning the biological activity of endotoxin and the relevance of its inactivation during treatment of teeth with pulp necrosis and chronic periapical lesion.O conhecimento mais aprofundado sobre a estrutura e atividade biológica das endotoxinas (LPS) revolucionou os conceitos sobre seu mecanismo de ação e formas de inativação. A partir da década de 80, os avanços tecnológicos na cultura e identificação microbiológica demonstraram que, em canais radiculares de dentes portadores de necrose pulpar e lesão periapical crônica, visível radiograficamente, predominam microrganismos anaeróbios, particularmente os gram-negativos. Como se sabe, os microrganismos gram-negativos, além de possuírem diferentes fatores de virulência e gerarem produtos e sub-produtos tóxicos aos tecidos apicais e periapicais, contêm endotoxina em sua parede celular. Esse conhecimento é particularmente importante, uma vez que a endotoxina é liberada durante a multiplicação ou morte bacteriana, exercendo uma série de efeitos biológicos relevantes, que conduzem a uma reação inflamatória e à reabsorção dos tecidos mineralizados. Tendo em vista o papel da endotoxina na patogênese das lesões periapicais, os autores realizaram uma revisão da literatura específica, abordando suas atividades biológicas e a importância de sua inativação durante o tratamento de dentes portadores de necrose pulpar e lesão periapical.

The aim of this study was to compare a group of children with high levels of anxiety during dental treatment who required physical restraint (group 1) to a group of children who collaborated with treatment (group 2). Child stress and its relationship with the manifestations of stress of the mothers and the dental students were assessed. The following psychological evaluation techniques were applied: the Child Stress Scale, the Rutter Parent Scale A2, Dental Fear Survey, and Lipp Stress Symptoms Inventory for Adults. Group 1 presented higher stress indicators, and emotional and behavior difficulties than group 2 (p < 0.01). The stress indicators and the dental fear presented by mothers from group 1 were higher than that from group 2 (p < 0.01). The dental students who treated the children from both groups presented high stress levels. We conclude that the difficulties experienced by the child and the mother, associated to the student's diminished ability to control the situation, may negatively influence the perception that the child has of dental treatment. A set of factors related to the children, mothers or dental students may cause poor collaboration during the dental treatment.O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar um grupo de crianças com altos níveis de ansiedade frente ao tratamento odontopediátrico que necessitaram de contenção física (grupo 1) a um grupo de crianças que colaboraram com o atendimento (grupo 2). Para tal, o estresse infantil e suas relações com manifestações de estresse de acompanhantes/mães e dos alunos de odontologia foram avaliados. Procedeu-se à aplicação das técnicas: Escala de Estresse Infantil, Escala Comportamental Infantil A2 de Rutter, "Dental Fear Survey" e Inventário de Sintomas de Estresse para Adultos de Lipp. O grupo 1 apresentou indicadores mais elevados de estresse e de dificuldades emocionais e comportamentais que o grupo 2 (p < 0,01). Os indicadores de estresse e de medo odontológico apresentados pelas mães do grupo 1 foram maiores que os apresentados pelas mães do grupo 2 (p < 0,01). Os alunos que atenderam as crianças dos dois grupos apresentaram elevados níveis de estresse. Conclui-se que as dificuldades vivenciadas pela criança e pelo acompanhante associadas à pouca capacidade do aluno para controlar a situação podem estar influenciando a percepção que a criança tem do tratamento odontológico. Um conjunto de fatores ligados às crianças, aos acompanhantes e aos alunos interferem nas manifestações de comportamentos pouco colaboradores no tratamento odontológico.

Abstract Aim: To compare the apical negative pressure irrigation (ANP) with conventional irrigation in the teeth of immature dogs with apical periodontitis. Methods: Fifty-two immature pre-molar root canals were randomly assigned into 4 groups: ANP (n=15); conventional irrigation (n=17); healthy teeth (control) (n = 10); and teeth with untreated apical periodontitis (control) (n=10). After induction of apical periodontitis, teeth were instrumented using EndoVac® (apical negative pressure irrigation) or conventional irrigation. The animals were euthanized after 90 days. The sections were stained by HE and analyzed under conventional and fluorescence microscopy. TRAP histoenzymology was also performed. Statistical analyses were performed with the significance level set at 5%. Results: There was difference in the histopathological parameters between ANP and conventional groups (p0.05). However, a lower number of osteoclasts was observed in the ANP group (p

Abstract Decalcification of enamel during fixed orthodontic appliance treatment remains a problem. White spot lesions are observed in nearly 50% of patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. The use of fluoride-containing orthodontic materials has shown inconclusive results on their ability to reduce decalcification. The aims of this investigation were to compare the levels of Streptococcus mutans (SM) in saliva and biofilm adjacent to orthodontic brackets retained with a resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) (Fuji ORTHO LC) and a light cured composite resin (Transbond XT), and to analyze the influence of topical application of the 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) on SM counts. In a parallel study design, two groups (n=14/15) were used with random allocation and high salivary SM counts before treatment. Biofilm was collected from areas adjacent to the brackets on teeth 13, 22, 33, and 41. Both saliva and biofilm were collected on the 7th, 21st, 35th, and 49th days after appliance placement. Topical fluoride application was carried out on the 35th day. Bonding with RMGIC did not alter SM counts in saliva or biofilm adjacent to the brackets. On the other hand, the biofilm adjacent to brackets retained with composite resin showed a significant increase in SM counts along the trial period. Topical application of 1.23% APF did not reduce salivary or biofilm SM counts regardless of the bonding material. In conclusion, fluoride topical application did not show efficacy in reducing SM. The use of RMGIC as bonding materials allowed a better control of SM cfu counts in dental biofilm hindering the significant increase of these microorganisms along the trial period, which was observed in the biofilm adjacent to the composite material.

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess in vitro the influence of the CO2 laser and of the type of ceramic bracket on the shear bond strength (SBS) to enamel. METHODS: A total of 60 enamel test surfaces were obtained from bovine incisors and randomly assigned to two groups, according to the ceramic bracket used: Allure (A); Transcend (T). Each group was divided into 2 subgroups (n = 15): L, laser (10W, 3s); C, no laser, or control. Twenty-four hours after the bonding protocol using Transbond XT, SBS was tested at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min in a universal testing machine. After debonding, the Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) was evaluated at 10 x magnification and compared among the groups. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, Tukey’s, Mann-Whitney’s and Kruskal-Wallis tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Mean SBS in MPa were: AL = 0.88 ± 0.84; AC = 12.22 ± 3.45; TL = 12.10 ± 5.11; TC = 17.71 ± 6.16. ARI analysis showed that 73% of the specimens presented the entire adhesive remaining on the tooth surfaces (score 3). TC group presented significantly higher SBS than the other groups. The lased specimens showed significantly lower bond strength than the non-lased groups for both tested brackets. CONCLUSION: CO2 laser irradiation decreased SBS values of the polycrystalline ceramic brackets, mainly Allure.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate topographic and temporal aspects of premaxillary bone and premaxillary-maxillary suture, since they are fundamental anatomical elements little explored clinically. Methods: 1,138 human dry skulls were evaluated, of which 116 (10.19%) of the specimens were children, and 1,022 (89.81%) were adults. The skulls were photographed and the percentage of premaxillary-maxillary suture opening was determined. Subsequently the data were tabulated and submitted to statistical analysis, adopting a level of significance of 5%. Results: The progression of premaxillary suture closure from birth to 12 years of age was 3.72% per year. In 100% of the skulls up to 12 years, the premaxillary-maxillary suture open in the palatal region was observed, while 6.16% of adults presented different degrees of opening. Conclusions: The premaxilla exists in an independent way within the maxillary complex and the presence of the premaxilla-maxillary suture justifies the success of anteroposterior expansions to stimulate the growth of the middle third of the face, solving anatomical and functional problems.

Abstract Bacterial endotoxin (LPS) adhesion to orthodontic brackets is a known contributing factor to inflammation of the adjacent gingival tissues. Objective The aim of this study was to assess whether LPS adheres to orthodontic adhesive systems, comparing two commercial brands. Material and Methods Forty specimens were fabricated from Transbond XT and Light Bond composite and bonding agent components (n=10/component), then contaminated by immersion in a bacterial endotoxin solution. Contaminated and non-contaminated acrylic resin samples were used as positive and negative control groups, respectively. LPS quantification was performed by the Limulus Amebocyte Lysate QCL-1000™ test. Data obtained were scored and subjected to the Chi-square test using a significance level of 5%. Results There was endotoxin adhesion to all materials (p0.05). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) among commercial brands. Affinity of endotoxin was significantly greater for the bonding agents (p=0.0025). Conclusions LPS adhered to both orthodontic adhesive systems. Regardless of the brand, the endotoxin had higher affinity for the bonding agents than for the composites. There is no previous study assessing the affinity of LPS for orthodontic adhesive systems. This study revealed that LPS adheres to orthodontic adhesive systems. Therefore, additional care is recommended to orthodontic applications of these materials.

Abstract Objectives: Miniscrew has been frequently used, considering that anchorage control is a critical point in orthodontic treatment, and its failure, the main adverse problem. Using two groups of stable (successful) and unstable (failed) mini-implants, this in vivo study aimed to quantify proinflammatory cytokines IL-1 α, IL-6, IL-17, and TNF-α and osteoclastogenesis marker RANK, RANKL, and OPG in gingival tissue, using the real-time polymerase chain reaction technique. Methodology: Thirteen patients of both sexes (11-49 years old) under orthodontic treatment were selected, obtaining 11 successful and 7 failed mini-implants. The mini-implants were placed and removed by the same surgeon, in both jaws. The mean time of permanence in the mouth was 29.4 months for successful and 7.6 months for failed mini-implants. At removal time, peri-mini-implant gingival tissue samples were collected and processed for quantification of the proinflammatory cytokines and osteoclastogenesis markers. Nonparametric Wilcoxon rank-sum test considering the clusters and Kruskal-Wallis test were used for statistical analysis (α=0.05). Results: No significant difference (p>0.05) was observed between the groups for either quantification of cytokines or osteoclastogenesis markers, except for IL-6 (p

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on the endodontic treatment of apical periodontitis (AP). AP was induced in 48 premolars of 6 dogs. After biomechanical preparation, the teeth were divided into 4 groups: Calcium-Hydroxide (CH)/120d and CH/180d: root canals filled with CH-based dressing for 15 days before obturation; aPDT/120d and aPDT/180d: conditioning with phenothiazine photosensitizer (10 mg/mL) for 1 minute and irradiation with diode laser in the same session as obturation. Root filling was performed with AH Plus sealer. After the experimental periods, animals were euthanized and teeth were submitted for histology. HE staining was performed for descriptive analysis of the periapical region, measurement of apical periodontitis and for inflammatory cells, and blood vessels count. Immunohistochemistry was performed for osteopontin (OPN) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Data were analyzed statistically by two-way ANOVA and chi-square test (α = 5%). Teeth in Group CH/120d presented only a slightly enlarged periodontal ligament (PL) with advanced repair. Group aPDT/120d presented the PL moderately enlarged, with moderate inflammatory infiltrate and few collagen fibers. The same pattern was observed at 180 days. AP lesions in CH-treated groups were smaller than those in aPDT-treated groups (p < 0.001) with more blood vessels (p < 0.0001), regardless of the evaluation period, without significant differences in the number of inflammatory cells (p > 0.05). CH-treated groups showed significantly more intense immunostaining for ALP and OPN (p < 0.001) in both periods. Although aPDT stimulated angiogenesis and expression of bone formation markers, the two-session endodontic treatment with CH-based dressing promoted better apical periodontitis repair.