Search

Objectives The aim of this systematic review of the literature is to describe treatment options for bilateral coronoid process hyperplasia in pediatric patients, to describe etiologic and diagnostic correlations with the treatment, and to evaluate long-term follow-up treatment outcomes. Methods A systematic revision of the literature was performed in the Medline, PubMed, Cochrane library, and Embase database up to December 5, 2017. Predetermined Medical Subject Heading keywords were used: "bilateral" or "monolateral" and "coronoid" or "coronoid process" and "hyperplasia" and "temporomandibular joint" or "tmj" and "ankylosis" or "trismus" and "treatment." Results were recorded following PRISMA guidelines. Results The systematic research produced 1459 results excluding duplicates. Two additional studies from "Grey literature" were also considered. After application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 38 articles were selected for a qualitative synthesis. Data regarding sex and age of presentation were collected and summarized in a study flow diagram. Conclusion It is possible to conclude that early diagnosis is fundamental to restore stomatognathic multifunction. There is lack of longitudinal studies presenting long-term follow-up to determine treatment stability. Coronoidectomy might be considered gold standard treatment for this pathologic condition.

Background Dental implants and bone augmentation are well-established procedures used for oral rehabilitation. There is an increasing interest in biological mediators used topically for prevention of bone resorption maybe enhancement of osseointegration of dental implants. The purpose of the manuscript is to describe preliminarily the effect of bisphosphonates on the ossification pattern of bone grafts in a rat model. Material and methods Twenty Wistar-derived male rats were divided into 2 groups study and control. Bone substitute was added to mandibular defects and was covered by a resorbable collagen membrane. In the study group, the membrane was soaked with bisphosphonates suspension. In the control group, the membrane was soaked with saline solution. Radiographic and histomorphometric evaluation were performed. Results Radiographically, it was found that bone density was significantly higher in the study group. Histomorphometric analysis revealed a trend of higher bone volume fraction along with reduced bone substitute volume fraction in the study group, and increased number of osteoclasts and blood vessels in the control group. Conclusions Within the limitations of our study it was found that there is a trend of increasing bone quantity and radiographic bone density by application of bisphosphonates.

INTRODUCTION Different osteotomy techniques have been proposed in order to improve postoperative course of impacted third molar extraction. The aim is to evaluate the possible advantages achieved with erbium yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser osteotomy compared with traditional burs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventy-six extractions were randomly classified into 2 groups according to osteotomy instrument: group 1 (G1)-Er:YAG laser: 35 patients; group 2 (G2)-traditional bur: 41 patients. Intraoperative parameters: total time, stitches number, and patient compliance. Postoperative: pain, health-related quality of life (HR-QoL), need for analgesics, edema, trismus, intra- and extraoral hematoma, and postoperative complications. RESULTS Mean time for G1 resulted 1069.4 seconds; for G2 1913.5 seconds (P

The aim of this literature review was to provide an update on the current scientific knowledge in the field of 3D virtual patient science and to identify a possible easy, smart, and affordable method to combine different file formats obtained from different digital devices.Electronic searches of the Medline database was performed, up to May 2017, for articles dealing with the construction of a 3D virtual patient; the matching of data acquired with different digital devices (cone beam computed tomography, CBCT; face scanner, FS; intraoral scanner, IOS; and desktop scanner, DS) was considered. The inclusion of studies was based on the superimposition of at least 2 different digital sources.Twenty-five studies were selected for subsequent examination. Only 3 studies analyzed the feasibility of superimposition of 3 different types of 3D data (CBCT + FS + IOS/DS). The most frequently used matching procedure was between CBCT and FS and CBCT and IOS/DS.The procedure of superimposition of data from CBCT, IOS, and FS is currently feasible and it is now possible to create a 3D "virtual patient" to better diagnose, plan the treatment, and communicate with patients.

Purpose To evaluate the long-term cumulative implant survival rate (CISR%) and cumulative implant-crown success rate (CICSR%) of single-tooth Morse-taper connection implants, with particular attention to documenting the incidence of prosthetic complications. Methods The customized records of all patients who had been treated with single-tooth Morse-taper connection implants in 2 dental centers during the period between January 2002 and December 2012 were revisited. These records included patient-related (gender, age at surgery, smoking, bruxism), implant-related (date of insertion, site/location, and length/diameter of the implant, previous/concomitant bone regeneration), and restoration-related (date of delivery of the provisional and final crown) information. In addition, these records contained information about any implant failure and biologic and/or prosthetic complication that occurred during the follow-up period as well as the radiographic documentation. The follow-up period comprised between 5 and 15 years. The main outcomes were CISR% and CICSR%, with the latter being defined as the condition in which no complication had affected the surviving implant-supported crown during the entire follow-up. Life-table analysis was used for the analysis of CISR% and CICSR%. Peri-implant marginal bone resorption (PIMBR) at 5, 10, and 15 years was a secondary outcome of this study. Results In total, 578 patients who had received 612 implants were included in this study. The overall CISR% at 15 years was 94.8% (94.2% maxilla, 95.3% mandible). Among the surviving crowns, the overall CICSR% at 15 years was 94.5% (93.1% and 94.9% for anterior and posterior crowns, respectively), and the incidence of prosthetic complications was low (1.5%). The PIMBL amounted to 0.38 ± 0.29 mm, 0.49 ± 0.35 mm, and 0.94 ± 0.58 mm at the 5-, 10-, and 15-year follow-ups, respectively. Conclusion Morse-taper connection implants represent a reliable treatment procedure for the restoration of single-tooth gaps in the long term, with high CISR% (94.8%) at 15 years, a very low incidence of complications, and a high CICSR% (94.5%).

Background: The chin is the most prominent and median sector of the lower third of the face giving harmony to nose and lips. The authors present the application of piezoelectric scalpel for the correction of different chin deformities. The distinctive characteristics of this device allow us to avoid or reduce the immediate genioplasty complications. Methods: Fifty-five patients with defective chin have been treated from January 2006 to April 2008. Intraoral chinplasty was performed during the correction of dentofacial dysmorphisms or associated with nasal surgery. The authors used a piezoelectric cutting device to perform different osteotomies and if necessary, interpositional graft was used to stabilize bony segments. Results: Piezosurgery has been associated with a fewer number of postoperative complications, especially as regard intraoperative bleeding, nerve injuries (immediate and late), hematomas and seromas, and asymmetry (immediate and early). The mean time for completing the complete procedure of genioplasty with piezosurgery was almost the same compared with the saw and drill. Conclusions: Chinplasty represents one of the most common ancillary procedures and may be associated with corrective surgery of dentofacial dysmorphisms. Mental nerve injuries, asymmetries, intraoperative bleeding are the main immediate complications of genioplasty. Distinctive characteristics of ultrasonic piezoelectric osteotomy are selective cut of mineralized structure with less risk of vascular and nervous damage (microvibrations), intraoperative precision (thin cutting scalpel and no macrovibrations), blood free site (cavitation effect). In our experience, piezoelectric scalpel, compared with saw and drill, enables us to reduce or avoid immediate complications of chin surgery, helping the surgeon to reach patients’ satisfaction. Level of Evidence: IV.

Objectives In the last decade, several studies have reported that short implants achieve excellent results with a 2-stage technique. According to the literature, short dental implants have often been used for the replacement of teeth. Methods and materials A total of 69 short implants (Bone System) were inserted in the posterior mandibular area (41 in males, 28 in females, with a median age of 55 years and an age ranging from 41 to 70 years). Results Mean loss of bone levels at 1 year was 0.20 ± 0.03 mm, mean changes in bone levels for periods longer than 1 year was 0.07 mm. Survival rate (SRR) of short implants was 98.5%. Conclusion This study showed no complications in short implants and they could represent predictable solutions for the rehabilitation of atrophic posterior mandible to avoid complementary surgical procedures.

Objective This article describes a virtual protocol designed to optimize surgical orthodontic diagnosis and treatment plan. Methods A total of 15 patients undergoing orthodontic-surgical treatment have been analyzed with a presurgical virtual three-dimensional (3D) treatment planning, which involves 9 steps. All the patients have been treated with the use of occlusal splint guides projected on the basis of the surgical and orthodontic visualized treatment objective . Results In all the analyzed patients, a precise and optimal orthodontic presurgical preparation has been obtained. Conclusions The 3D analysis seems more precise to interpret than two-dimensional; it provides information and images of craniofacial structures free from perspective distortion and it reduces the steps of the presurgical diagnosis. The simplicity of the protocol described in this paper makes possible to apply it in everyday practice.The study described here allows high-precision planning of orthodontic-surgical therapy and optimization of each treatment phase, with consequent advantages in clinical practice: a more accurate orthognathic surgery with predictable results.

A retrospective study of 20 patients treated for vertical maxillary excess between 2009 and 2010, solely by superior surgical repositioning of the maxilla. Clinical and radiological cephalometric parameters were analyzed statistically and their impact on achieving the predicted postoperative mandibular autorotation and on relapse. According to our study, patients presenting with an anterior open bite and a low occlusal plane angle might fail to achieve the predicted mandibular autorotation and are prone to postoperative relapse. No correlation was found between the extent of maxillary impaction and the presence of autorotation.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of biomimetic composite bone substitute composed of equine collagen I and Mg-hydroxyapatite in improving socket preservation after tooth extraction in humans.Thirty-two patients were subjected to a single tooth extraction, performed without elevation of the full-thickness flap. In each patient, socket was grafted with the bone substitute and specimens were retrieved 2 months after surgery and processed for histological observations. The clinical outcome variables were healing index, visual analog score for pain, postsurgery complications, and patient satisfaction evaluated through a questionnaire.No adverse reaction or infection occurred, in which healing index averaged 5.8 (range 4-7). Pain scores were lower. The patients' questionnaire outcomes were unanimously in favor of the test treatment. At low-power magnification, it was possible to see a portion of native bone with small marrow spaces and many areas of bone remodeling. At high-power magnification, it could be observed that small newly formed trabeculae originated from the preexisting bone and bone spicules in the middle of the defect.Grafting the postextraction socket with composite bone substitute may improve the healing process by accelerating socket closure and tissue maturation. Such a product demonstrated excellent biocompatibility as no inflammatory reaction could be detected histologically and was well accepted by patients.

Purpose:This prospective study is aimed at investigating clinically and histologically the effectiveness of a biomimetic magnesium-enriched-hydroxyapatite (MgHA)/collagen-based bone substitute for alveolar socket preservation. Materials:Patients scheduled for posterior single tooth extraction were included. The alveolar socket was filled either with MgHA or deproteinized bovine bone matrix (DBBM). In DBBM group, a punch of mucosa was taken from the palate and used to cover the graft. Vertical and horizontal dimensional changes of the alveolar process were assessed clinically with a periodontal probe and with 3-dimensional (3D) analysis of a cast model. Postoperative quality of life was assessed through a questionnaire. After 6 months of healing, an alveolar tissue biopsy was taken for histologic and histomorphometric analysis of the newly formed tissue. After checking normality of the distributions, parametric or nonparametric tests were used for statistical comparisons. Results:Twenty patients (12 males, 8 females, mean age 42.8 ± 5.1 years, range 33-50 years) were treated. After 6 months, vertical and horizontal alveolar ridge resorption was similar in the 2 groups. The 3D analysis of the models showed a significantly higher resorption at the buccal side than at the palatal/lingual side. Histomorphometric analysis showed similar new bone formation for MgHA group (23.07 ± 10.3%) and DBBM (22.77 ± 6.95%), and a significantly higher residual material% for DBBM (15.77 ± 1.95%) than MgHA (5.01 ± 1.04%). Significantly less pain was reported in the first 3 days after surgery in patients of the MgHA group. Conclusion:The MgHA was as safe and effective as DBBM and may represent a feasible bone substitute for alveolar socket preservation.

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of mineralized plasmatic matrix (MPM), comprising a combination of synthetic graft and platelet concentrates, on bone regeneration. Methods Critical size defects of 6-mm diameter were created on the tibias of 6 male sheep, with the animals subsequently assigned into 2 groups. Of the 5 bone defects generated per animal, 4 were randomly filled with MPM, beta-tricalcium phosphate graft (β-TCP), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) + β-TCP, and autogenous graft. One defect was left empty as a control group. Animals were killed at 3 weeks (early healing group) and 6 weeks (late healing group). The specimens underwent histologic and histomorphometric analysis to evaluate new bone formation. Results In both healing periods, new bone formation from autogenous bone was observed significantly more often than from biomaterials or the empty defect. The degree of new bone formation for MPM was significantly higher than that of the control group at all healing periods. In addition, it was significantly higher in both healing periods than that of β-TCP albeit only in the late healing period than that of the PRF + β-TCP combination. In all biomaterial groups, residual graft ratios decreased from early to late healing periods. Conclusion The results indicated that MPM, representing growth factors in a fibrin network, increases new bone formation in surgically created defects in sheep tibia as confirmed by histologic assessment.

The poly D,L-lactide-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) is a copolymer used in many therapeutic devices for its high rates of biodegradability and biocompatibility. The principal aim of the research was to evaluate the new bone formation, after 16 (T1) and 28 weeks (T2), in sheep maxillary sinus lift in vivo model using PLGA.Computerized tomography analysis, X-ray microanalysis, and scanning electron microscope analysis of secondary electrons (SE) and the backscattered electrons (BSE) of the samples were detected.After 28 weeks, the computed tomography analysis showed a 22% increase of UH density in the grafting areas. The X-ray microanalysis of the samples showed calcium and phosphorus increase at T1 and T2 follow-up period and the carbon and oxygen concentration decrease. The SE evaluation showed a rapid superficial resorption of the biomaterials at T1 and a completely bone reorganization of biomaterial at T2. The BSE analysis confirmed the SE data and showed the direct and intimate contact between bone and PLGA with a higher calcification in T2 compared to T1.Certainly, still other experiments and a larger number of samples will be necessary to be analyzed to determine the behavior of the PLGA in the bone regeneration; however, the PLGA used in maxillary sinus lift animal model, seem to promote new bone formation that continues increase at 28 weeks after grafting.

Auto-fluorescence (AF) of healthy bone tissue has recently been described. Loss of AF (LAF) has, on the contrary, been reported in necrotic bone. Further, the use of LAF as a possible guidance to distinguish viable from necrotic bone during surgical treatment of osteonecrosis has been proposed. The aim of this study is to detail 8 patients of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws treated through an AF-guided surgical resection. The authors also provide the histopathologic description of hypo-fluorescent and hyper-fluorescent bone in each patient. After removal of necrotic bone block, Er:YAG laser was used for vaporizing further necrotic bone, up to the detection of strongly hyper-fluorescent bone. Samples of hyper-fluorescent bone were collected around areas of necrosis. Histopathologic evaluation revealed viable bone tissue in all hyper-fluorescent specimens. On the basis of these data, AF-guided surgical resection could be effective in highlighting surgical margins of necrotic bone tissue and it might have some utility in a range of applications of bone surgery.

Background/aim Autophagy is a macromolecular degradation process playing a pivotal role in the maintenance of stem-like features and in the morpho-functional remodeling of the tissues undergoing differentiation. In this work we investigated the involvement of autophagy in the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells originated from human gingiva (HGMSC). METHODS: To promote the osteogenic differentiation of HGMSCs we employed resveratrol, a nutraceutical known to modulate autophagy and cell differentiation, together with osteoblastic inductive factors. Osteoblastic differentiation and autophagy were monitored through western blotting and immunofluorescence staining of specific markers. Results We show that HGMSCs can differentiate into osteoblasts when cultured in the presence of appropriate factors and that resveratrol accelerates this process by up-regulating autophagy. The prolonged incubation with dexamethasone, β-glycerophosphate and ascorbic acid induced the osteogenic differentiation of HGMSCc with increased expression of autophagy markers. Resveratrol (1 μM) alone elicited a less marked osteogenic differentiation yet it greatly induced autophagy and, when added to the osteogenic differentiation factors, it provoked a synergistic effect. Resveratrol and osteogenic inductive factors synergistically induced the AMPK-BECLIN-1 pro-autophagic pathway in differentiating HGMSCs, that was thereafter downregulated in osteoblastic differentiated cells. Pharmacologic inhibition of BECLIN-1-dependent autophagy precluded the osteogenic differentiation of HGMSCs. Conclusions Autophagy modulation is instrumental for osteoblastic differentiation of HGMSCs. The present findings can be translated into the regenerative cell therapy of maxillary / mandibular bone defects. Graphical abstract

Acellular matrices are widespread biomaterials used in surgical practice as tissue reinforcement and anatomical support to favor tissue regeneration. It is clear that a fundamental role in the regeneration of tissue is played by cell-material interaction. In this work, the interaction between a bovine pericardium membrane and human adult stem cells was investigated by microscopy analysis and gene expression analysis. Parallel cell cultures were prepared on the pericardium membrane or tissue culture plate. They were incubated in basal growth medium or in adipogenic differentiation medium to perform experiments on the seventh and the 14th day of culture. Results demonstrated that the membrane allows cell viability, adhesion, and proliferation of human stem cells. During adipogenic commitment on the membrane, the accumulation of cytoplasmatic lipid droplets and the expression of adipogenic gene PPARG, CEBPA, GLUT4, FABP4, and ADIPOQ were detected. Concurrently, a downregulation of mesenchymal stem cell gene CD29, CD90, and CD105 was detected. In basal medium, the adipogenic gene expression was upregulated, whereas the mesenchymal markers were indifferently expressed. These findings suggest that the bovine pericardium membrane is a biocompatible matrix and that their rough surface allows cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation. The surface morphology activates mechanochemical signals that stimulate the adipogenic commitment of stem cells in basal medium and potentiate their commitment in adipogenic differentiation medium.

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw are bone exposures in the maxillofacial region that does not heal after 8 weeks from the observation of a health care provider in patients with history of the intake of antiresorptive agents and no previous irradiation of the craniofacial region. Initially attributed only to the intake of bisphosphonates they have later been associated also with the intake of other classes of antiresorptive medications.This retrospective study analyzed records from patients with documented medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws treated in our unit. Clinical data, comorbidities and concurrent medications, treatment outcome information such us number of repeated treatments needed, antibiotic used, type of treatment adopted were recorded. Baseline demographics for the included records of 15 patients (mean age: 64 years) revealed a treatment success rate of 73.3% (mean observation period: 42.2 months), failure rate of 26.6%, dental extraction trigger rate of 33.3%, and a spontaneous trigger rate of 40%.Zolendronate and denosumav were the medications most frequently associated with the upset of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (60% of the sample). In 8 cases out of the 11 that were successful, the surgical treatment had to be repeated more than once. Leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin led to the resolution of 11 of the 14 cases in which it was used.

Background Clinical botulinum toxin (BT) injections are done into recognized anatomical sites with no precise reference lines to make records of our treatments and to plan and position the toxin. Botulinum toxin injections are also characterized for different level of pain on different sites of injection. Objective The aim of this study is to provide a treatment guide to improve precision and make records, and to evaluate the different levels of pain during the injection. Methods The same surgeon injected BT into 2 groups of patients; in 25, the authors applied the grid, and in 25 patients the authors did not apply the grid. In the first group of patients, the authors used the new device (Juvapen); for the injection in the second group, the authors performed the injection by the standard procedure. At the end of each procedure, the authors evaluated the level of pain by visual method. Results Results included 97% degree of symmetry and a 100% patient satisfaction. The mean level of pain in the first group of patient was 3, and in the second group it was 8. Limitations The authors will apply the grid with the device on a wider population of patients. Conclusions Facial BT grid analysis lines allow an individualized treatment improving the long-term results. Juvapen permits a less painful injection.

The aim of the present study was to compare the survival, stability, and complications of immediately loaded implants placed in postextraction sockets and healed sites.Over a 2-year period, all patients presenting with partial or complete edentulism of the maxilla and/or mandible (healed site group, at least 4 months of healing after tooth extraction) or in need of replacement of nonrecoverable failing teeth (postextraction group) were considered for inclusion in this study. Tapered implants featuring a nanostructured calcium-incorporated surface were placed and loaded immediately. The prosthetic restorations comprised single crowns, fixed partial dentures, and fixed full arches. Primary outcomes were implant survival, stability, and complications. Implant stability was assessed at placement and at each follow-up evaluation (1 week, 3 months, and 1 year after placement): implants with an insertion torque (IT)45 N·cm and/or with an implant stability quotient (ISQ)70 were considered failed for immediate loading. A statistical analysis was performed.Thirty implants were placed in postextraction sockets of 17 patients, and 32 implants were placed in healed sites of 22 patients. There were no statistically significant differences in ISQ values between the 2 groups, at each assessment. In total, 60 implants (96.8%) had an IT ≥45 and an ISQ ≥70 at placement and at each follow-up control: all these implants were successfully loaded. Only 2 implants (1 in a postextraction socket and 1 in a healed site, 3.2%) could not achieve an IT ≥45 N·cm and/or an ISQ ≥70 at placement or over time: accordingly, these were considered failed for stability, as they could not be subjected to immediate loading. One of these 2 implants, in a healed site of a posterior maxilla, had to be removed, yielding an overall 1-year implant survival rate of 98.4%. No complications were reported. No significant differences were reported between the 2 groups with respect to implant failures and complications.Immediately loaded implants placed in postextraction sockets and healed sites had similar high survival and stability, with no reported complications. Further long-term studies on larger samples of patients are needed to confirm these results.

Objective The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of superpulsed, low-level laser therapy (SLLLT) on neurosensory recovery of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) after oral surgical injury. Background data A survey of the literature reveals the uncertainty of outcomes for the surgical management of IAN injury and the efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the treatment of IAN injury. Methods In this study, the authors report the results for SLLLT in 57 patients affected by paresthesia of the lip, chin, gingival, and buccal regions. Each patient was subjected to 10 laser treatments, once a week, with a GaAs diode laser. Clinical neurosensory tests (soft touch, 2-point discrimination, pin prick, thermal test) and the visual analogue scale were used before every treatment to evaluate the extent of neurosensory recovery. Results The authors' results demonstrate that 83.3% of the patients had a significant neurosensory recovery, as evident in the objective and subjective tests. Conclusion The results reported in this study indicate that SLLLT has the potential to improve neurosensory recovery in patients with IAN paresthesia.

Tissue healing is a complex process involving several players such as cells and growth factors released from platelets upon activation. Today, platelet concentrates (PCs) are used in many different medical fields including oral, orthopaedic, and reconstructive surgery since they allow growth factors delivery to the injured site, aiming at enhancing tissue regeneration. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of the acellular plasma of an activated platelet concentrate obtained using a manual protocol, on the proliferation, and biological activity of differentiated cells involved in tissue healing. Human osteoblasts and dermal fibroblasts were grown in serum-free medium supplemented with PC derived from several donors. Human osteoblast and human dermal fibroblast proliferation was assessed by MTT test after 7 days and cells were count up to 12-day incubation. Human osteoblast osteo-differentiation was tested after 7 and 14-day incubation by alkaline phosphatase assay. The addition of PC to the culture medium caused an increased proliferation with respect to cells grown in standard condition. The results of the present study suggest that PC supports the proliferation of terminally differentiated cells involved in wound healing and tissue regeneration, confirming its beneficial clinical application in regenerative therapies.

Dentoalveolar surgery including tooth extractions and dental implants placement is considered the major risk factor for developing medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ).In this study, a patient series of MRONJ around dental implants were carefully analyzed to describe the findings and to assess the possible risk factors.Fifteen patients with peri-implant bone osteonecrosis were selected out of a group of 250 patients (6%). Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the temporal relationship. Group 1 (G1)-necrosis immediately after implant placement (from 2 to 10 months) and defined as "implant surgery-triggered" MRONJ. Group 2-necrosis distant (from 1 to 15 years) from implant placement and defined as "implant presence-triggered" MRONJ. Epidemiological and pharmacological variables were recorded as well as specific data about osteonecrosis and dental implants.G1 included 6 patients: 5 (83.4%) treated with oral bisphosphonates (BPs) for osteoporosis and 1 (16.6%) with intravenous BPs for breast cancer. Mean duration of BP therapy (BPT) was 83.7 months. G2 included 9 patients: 8 patients (88.89%) treated with intravenous BPs for malignant disease and 1 (11.11%) with oral BPs for osteoporosis.Data confirms that not only surgical insertion of dental implants is a potential risk factor for the development of osteonecrosis but also the presence itself of the implant into the bone can be associated with this disease. Therefore, it is necessary to inform of the increased risk for MRONJ also the patients who have already osteointegrated implants and are going to start the BPT.The risk is lower for patients receiving oral BPs but it exists and seems to be higher if the implant is located in the posterior areas, if the duration of BPT is more than 3 years and if the patient is under corticosteroid therapy.

Aim. To investigate whether there is a correlation between early dental implant failure and low serum levels of vitamin D.Methods. All patients treated with dental implants in a single centre, in the period 2003–2015, were considered for enrollment in this study. The main outcome was early implant failure. The influence of patient-related variables on implant survival was calculated using the Chi-square test.Results. 822 patients treated with 1625 implants were selected for this study; 27 early failures (3.2%) were recorded. There was no link between gender, age, smoking, history of periodontitis, and an increased incidence of early failures. Statistical analysis reported 9 early failures (2.2%) in patients with serum levels of vitamin D > 30 ng/mL, 16 early failures (3.9%) in patients with levels between 10 and 30 ng/mL, and 2 early failures (9.0%) in patients with levels P=0.15).Conclusions. This study failed in proving an effective link between low serum levels of vitamin D and an increased risk of early implant failure. Further studies are needed to investigate this topic.

Purpose. To evaluate the soft tissue stability around single implants inserted to replace maxillary lateral incisors, using an innovative 3D method.Methods. We have used reverse-engineering software for the superimposition of 3D surface models of the dentogingival structures, obtained from intraoral scans of the same patients taken at the delivery of the final crown (S1) and 2 years later (S2). The assessment of soft tissues changes was performed via calculation of the Euclidean surface distances between the 3D models, after the superimposition of S2 on S1; colour maps were used for quantification of changes.Results. Twenty patients (8 males, 12 females) were selected, 10 with a failing/nonrestorable lateral incisor (testgroup: immediate placement in postextraction socket) and 10 with a missing lateral incisor (controlgroup: conventional placement in healed ridge). Each patient received one immediately loaded implant (Anyridge®, Megagen, Gyeongbuk, South Korea). The superimposition of the 3D surface models taken at different times (S2 over S1) revealed a mean (±SD) reduction of 0.057 mm (±0.025) and 0.037 mm (±0.020) fortestandcontrolpatients, respectively. This difference was not statistically significant (p= 0.069).Conclusions. The superimposition of the 3D surface models revealed an excellent peri-implant soft tissue stability in both groups of patients, with minimal changes registered along time.

Aim The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical outcomes after using an innovative implant system characterized by a modern platform-switched Morse taper connection and an osteo growth induction titanium surface (a particular type of SLA surface). Peri-implant bone loss (PBL) and implant success rate were examined after a 1- to 3-year follow-up. Methods The study was conducted as a cross-sectional analysis on all patients treated from January 2011 to December 2014 using CLC CONIC implants. Implants were divided into 3 main groups, based on the duration of the follow-up (1 year, 2 years, and 3 years), then subgrouped by diameter, length, and type of prosthetic rehabilitation to compare differences in PBL. X-rays were taken at the time of surgery, at prosthetic loading, at 1 year, and then annually thereafter. Previously-established success criteria were used to assess the implants. Frequency analyses and comparisons between the means (with 95% CI) were conducted for the statistical analysis of the data collected. Results One hundred twenty patients met inclusion and exclusion criteria, and completed the follow-up, and were thus eligible for the study, with a total of 261 CLC CONIC implants. The mean follow-up was 22.45 months. No implants failed, giving an overall success rate of 100%. The average PBL at 1-year follow-up was 0.047 mm, at 2 years it was 0.128 mm, and at 3 years it was 0.236 mm. Conclusions The CLC CONIC implant system had a high success rate after 1 to 3 years of follow-up, in line with previous reports in the scientific literature. Combining platform switching with the Morse taper connection enabled stable bone levels to be achieved in the short to medium term.

Background Bromelain belongs to a group of protein-digesting enzymes obtained commercially from the fruit or stem of pineapple. Several studies demonstrated that bromelain exhibits various fibrinolytic, anti-edematous, antithrombotic, and anti-inflammatory activities supporting its application for many therapeutic benefits. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of bromelain on the pro-wound healing activities and the regenerative properties of mesenchymal stem cells. Methods Mesenchymal stem cells were treated in vitro with bromelain alone or combined with dexamethasone sodium phosphate. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to profile the expression of extracellular matrix components and remodeling enzymes, and cytokines. Results The combination of bromelain and dexamethasone sodium phosphate induced a great activation of mesenchymal stem cells with an increase in hyaluronan and collagen production and anti-inflammatory cytokines release. Conclusion Based on the results of this in vitro study, the combined use of bromelain and dexamethasone sodium phosphate stimulated the pro-wound healing activities and the regenerative properties of mesenchymal stem cells better than bromelain and dexamethasone alone.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the tooth extracted use as autologous tooth graft after endodontic root canal therapies used for socket preservation. To this purpose, the Tooth Transformer shredding and decontamination machine has been used. The graft obtained in this way, was inserted at the time of the extraction or at a second surgery altogether with the chosen regenerative therapy. This clinical trial enrolled patients with post-estractive defects requiring the restoration bone dimension and shape in the maxillary and mandibular zone. In addition, 98 patients with 119 extraction sockets were enrolled across 10 standardized centers. An innovative preparation method, using the dedicated automated device Tooth Transformer, able to transform autologous teeth in suitable grafting material, has been used. The extracted tooth was cleaned and treated using a Tooth Transformer and made a socket preservation. Thirteen Biopsies were realized to analyze the histologic outcomes at the average time of four months to demonstrate that the autologous tooth graft made from root after endodontic therapy should be used in human bone regeneration as graft for dental implant placement.

Background Platelet concentrates represent a new approach to improve tissue regeneration and can be used alone or together with autogenous bone, recombinant human growth factors, and/or other biomaterials, to enhance tissue regeneration. Among platelet concentrates, concentrated growth factors (CGFs) exhibit an interesting clinical and biotechnological application potential. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro release of 4 growth factors (bone morphogenetic proteins [BMP] -2, BMP-7, transforming growth factor [TGF] -β1, and insulin-like growth factor [IGF] -1) by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique, in CGFs mixed or not with β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), using or not the Round-up device, at different times. Methods CGFs were obtained from healthy volunteers, mixed or not with β-TCP, using or not the Round-up device. The release of 4 growth factors from these CGFs was then measured at 5 hours, 1, 3, 6, and 8 days, using the ELISA assay. Results Comparison of the results obtained with those achieved for CGFs alone showed that BMP2 and BMP-7 release, significantly increased in CGFs mixed with Round-up and β-TCP, TGF-β1 release was similar to CGFs alone, whereas IG-1 release was lower compared with CGFs alone. Conclusion The present data suggest that β-TCP addition to CGF could enhance and improve tissue regeneration, especially bone regeneration, increasing the release of some growth factors that play an important role in osteogenesis.

OBJECTIVES The study aimed to evaluate the effects of different titanium surface treatments on blood clot extension (bce). METHODS A total of 54 titanium disks with machined surface (M), laser-conditioned surface (L), and grit-blasted surface (S) were used in the present study. The surface characteristics such as contact angles and the microroughness were determined on each group (n = 4). To evaluate the bce, 0.1 mL of human blood was dropped onto the surface of each specimen and left for 7 minutes at room temperature. After fixation, dehydration, and gold sputtering treatments, the specimens were observed under scanning electron microscope. The bce values were expressed as percentage of specimen surface covered by blood clot. RESULTS The surface roughness (Ra ± standard deviation [SD]) was 0.75 ± 0.02 μm for M, 0.25 ± 0.02 μm for L, and 1.30 ± 0.03 μm for S. The contact angles measured in static conditions (WCA ± SD) were 71 ± 5.4° for M, 107 ± 6.6° for L, and 91 ± 7.2° for S. Regarding the bce (bce ± SD) of M samples (65.5 ± 4.3%) was statistically lower compared with both L (83.4 ± 5.1%) and S samples (72.4 ± 4.7%) (P

The aging to the upper eyelid complex includes skin laxity, resulting in rhytids, orbicularis oculi hypertrophy, and pseudohermitian of orbital fat and nowadays a high number of patients seeking cosmetic surgery. Excess and laxity of upper eyelid skin affect more than 90% of women, the impact of these problems on the patient's self-esteem can become important enough to affect quality of life in psychological and sociocultural terms.The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of blepharoplasty with an electrosurgical technology for treatment of skin laxity of upper eyelid, which produced a lid retraction and an elevation of the upper lid without complications.This retrospective evaluation was conducted from October 2008 to July 2015, where 80 patients (56 female and 24 male) were treated for excess and laxity of upper eyelid skin with voltaic arc dermabrasion.The outcome was that all patients displayed some aspects of tissue contraction that stretched the lax skin of the upper eyelids, resulting in cosmetic improvement.In conclusion this technique was predictable and useful to remove the laxity of upper eyelid skin minimal recurrence rates, and acceptable aesthetics.

Scanning electron microscopy evaluation of root surfaces after ultrasonic instrumentation was performed with 2 different metallic tips on piezoelectric devices. Fresh extracted teeth were collected for experimental observation and randomly divided into 2 groups: Test Group, where the root surfaces were treated using an iron, rough, double nano-structural coated (T-Black), corindone-treated tip, and Control Group where the root surfaces were treated with a conventional iron smooth tip. A scanning electronic microscope analysis was performed and the surface roughness and the amount of residual debris were evaluated. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed. Twenty specimens were analyzed, 10 per group and a total of 21.4 × 10 μm has been observed. On treated area percentage of debris after ultrasonic scaling in Test Group was 1.9 ± 1.8%, while in Control Group it was 5.7 ± 4.3%. Within the limits of the study, it seems that the efficacy of the novel iron, rough, double nano-structural coated (T-Black), corindone-treated structure tip showed greater performance in terms of root surface debridement than the conventional iron smooth tip. The possibility to use a single tool (ultrasonic device with a specific tip) for the root planing procedure within the nonsurgical mechanical therapy may represent a significant advantage for the clinicians. The tested novel tip seems to be able to show the requested ideal characteristics. However, further clinical studies are needed to demonstrate the in vitro results.

Peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) is a nonneoplastic lesion of the oral mucosa arising on the buccal or lingual attached gingiva or alveolar mucosa and the crest of the edentulous alveolar ridge and contains numerous giant cells. This case series describes 3 cases regarding the clinical and surgical management of PGCG associated with dental implants. Materials and methods This case series presents 3 patients, mean age 36 years, who showed a pedunculated painless lesion associated with dental implants that radiographically appeared as an osseous rarefaction corresponding the implants. Discussion Histological examination provided the diagnosis of PGCG. The treatment approach consisted in a surgical complete resection of the lesion and implant removal. After 1-year-follow-up, all the investigated cases did not show signs of recurrence. Conclusion A correct diagnosis and an appropriate surgical treatment of peri-implant giant cell granuloma are very important aspects for proper management of the lesion.

Background The overall success and predictability of dental implant treatment hinge on the primary stability, direct bone-to implant contact formation, and quantity and/or quality of residual bone. Pulsed electromagnetic field has been reported to increase bone regeneration in various clinical situations. Therefore, it was hypothesized that devices which could locally generate a Pulsed electromagnetic field would stimulate bone healing and increase bone density surrounding implants. Objective To retrospectively assess the effects of the miniaturized electromagnetic device (MED) on the implants stability for the first time in human subjects, in a prospective case controlled series. Methods Twelve consecutive patients (28 implants) were included in the study.Twelve MED healing caps and 16 regular control healing caps were inserted. Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) was performed at implant placement and abutment connection and an implant stability quotient value was given for each implant. Results Twenty-eight dental implants were included in the current study. Maxillary implants stability was significantly higher with MED healing cups compared with controls at 15 days postimplantation (66.2 vs 62.1, P = .0008). Resonance frequency analysis test performed at 30 days postimplantation demonstrated significantly increased stability in MED as compared with the control 73.5 ± 3.2 vs 66.7 ± 4.8 in mandibular implants and 74 ± 1.7 vs 65 ± 2.3 in maxillary implants. At the 50 days postimplantation, RFA tests revealed markedly higher stability of the maxillary implants with MED active healing caps compared with nonactive 75.4 ± 5.1 vs 68.5 ± 8.5, respectively. Conclusions We conclude that MED-abutment implants demonstrated a superior stability during the early phase of healing as compared with standard implants.

Administration of local anesthetics is daily routine for most dental practitioners. Normally, the effect is achieved, and no adverse effects are seen. In this article, the authors describe the complications of immediate, intense and shooting pain, numbness, and marked pallor of the cheek, which occurred during infiltration of a local anesthetic in buccal vestibule infiltration. The patients moved suddenly because of pain and marked pallor of the cheek near the root of the nose and lower eyelid pallor was observed. The pain was very short and the injection was performed again after a few minutes. Two patients also reported an alteration of vision or paralysis of the extra-ocular muscles and drooping eyelid due to paralysis of the levator palpebrae superioris muscle and signs of numbness in the infraorbital area on the same side as the anesthesia. While 3 patients were also apprehensive and started to scare with heart palpitations, as they did not understand what was happening. Probably the anesthetic solutions were injected into an intravascular artery and passed from the extraosseous branch of posterior superior alveolar artery through to the infraorbital artery, which could produce the clinical signs observed in the present study. At the same time, the inoculation of anesthetic in the artery could be grounds for legal disputes for the dentist. In fact, in the absence of vascular disease, anomalies documented by the dentist, they would, however, respond to professional liability and be liable for damages caused to the patient. In conclusion, despite the fact that this condition requires no treatment, it could lead to the recognition of clinical signs in patient with injection of local anesthesia into the artery. At the same time, the inoculation of anesthetic in the artery could be grounds for legal disputes for the dentist.

Denture-induced fibrous hyperplasia is a fibrous connective tissue lesion that commonly occurs in oral mucosa in patients showing important alveolar ridge atrophy. In this study, we propose Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) to overcome constrains of traditional surgical treatment. Herein, we demonstrated that PRGF represents an autologous source of growth factors able to reduce the healing time of the alveolar mucosa and the discomfort of those patients. These properties are the result of PRGF's precise biological features that result in the following: reduction of duration and intensity of postsurgical pain, acceleration of re-epithelialization of the wound, and reduction of bleeding events and of edema. In conclusion, we showed that using PRGF on patients affected by denture-induced fibrous hyperplasia allows a short healing time, thereby reducing complications and overall improving their quality of life. The aims of this study were to evaluate the influence of PRGF-ENDORET on secondary re-epithelialization in vestibuloplasty after excision of denture irritation fibrous hyperplasia, with an explorative randomized case control trial with 10 patients, 5 patients treated with PRGF and 5 patients with traditional hemostasis, and to analyze differences with simple surgery, considering postoperative rapidity of re-epithelialization, comfort, and discomfort of patients, pain, swelling, and infections.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis treatment through articular injections of plasma rich in growth factors (PGRF)-Endoret. Thirteen patients (median age, 47.64 y; SD, 7.51; range, 40-64 y; male-female ratio, 2:11) with osteoarthritis of TMJ associated to chronic pain have been selected. They were treated with articular injections of PRGF-Endoret, measuring the maximum mouth opening and pain level before the first injection (t0), 30 days after just before the second (t1), and after 6 months (t2). Data were analyzed using the paired Student's t-test data. The visual analogue scale score at t0 is 7.69 (range, 4-10; SD, 1.9), whereas that at t1 is 1.54 (range, 0-5; SD, 1.74) and that at t2 is 0.23 (range, 0-2; SD, 0.65). These differences in the results are statistically highly significant (P < 0.0001 comparison t0-t1 and t0-t2 and P < 0.01 comparison t1-t2). In terms of maximum mouth opening, it reduced from 30.15 mm at t0 (range, 26-40 mm; SD, 4.44) to 37.54 mm at t1 (range, 31-51 mm; SD, 5.10), with an increase of 7.38 mm (range, 4-11 mm; SD, 2.02) and a highly significant difference (P < 0.0001). At t2, it was 39.54 mm (range, 34-51; SD, 4.55) with an increase of 9.38 mm (range, 5-12 mm; SD, 2.21) compared with t0 and that of 2.00 mm compared with t1. Both differences in the results are statistically significant (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.01, respectively). The articular injections of PRGF-Endoret represent a very efficient method to control pain and to improve the TMJ mobility.

The aim of the current study was to find, by means of panoramic radiographs, a viable statistical method to forecast the duration of orthodontic traction of impacted maxillary cuspids. The treatment sample consisted of 51 palatal impacted cuspids (19 unilateral and 32 bilateral) in 35 patients (aged between 10.5 and 17.5 y) with a cervical vertebral maturation between cervical stage 1 and 4. Each patient underwent the same combined surgical-orthodontic technique. Anamnestic data as well as pretreatment panoramic radiograph and cephalogram with European Board of Orthodontics analysis were recorded for each case. Eight radiographic indicators were derived from panoramic films to define the reliable position of the impacted cuspid. Multiple regression analysis was used. All cuspids were successfully treated with an average traction time of 99 days (range, 33-188 d). The pretreatment radiographic features assessed on the panoramic radiographs did not significantly affect the duration of traction. The formula based on α angle, d1 distance, and S sector forecasted an average traction time of 123 days (range, 63-210 d), which is longer than the real time. No relevant correlations were found between orthodontic traction time and pretreatment radiograph parameters derived from panoramic film at the beginning of the treatment. The classic formula elaborated by Crescini could not be applied to the patients of this study, who were treated with the Easy Cuspid method.

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) represents a frequent and common respiratory disease characterized by repeated episodes of complete and/or partial obstruction of upper airways during sleep, normally associated with reduction of oxygen saturation in blood. The oral appliances (OAs) are considered to be an effective treatment modality thanks to the upper airway enlargement. Lateral cephalometry has been used for the 2-dimensional evaluation of upper airway form with several limits. We obtained an accurate 3-dimensional (3D) volume analyses with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans to confirm the effects of OA on the upper airway in patients with OSAS. Ten Italian patients with moderate or severe OSA (3 males and 7 females, 53.4 ± 11.3 years of age, and BMI 24.5 ± 2.7), who cannot tolerate continuous positive air pressure therapy and rejected a surgical approach, were treated with non-adjustable customized OAs and evaluated with CBCT and polysomnography. Upper airway form was examined in the presence and absence of OA and the volume was measured and compared in 2 different areas. Specific planes have been considered to match the data and calculate the benefit obtained with therapy. Nine out of ten patients showed an improvement of total upper airway volume and an improvement in apnea-hypopnea index. Volume increased both in the posterior soft palate region and in the posterior tongue region. In the inferior area, we observed greater differences. 3D image reconstruction accurately confirmed morphological changes in the upper airway during OA therapy. The use of this 3D evaluation is expected to improve the results of OA therapy in the future.

When the residual bone crest cannot allow the placement of standard implants, the treatment for complete arch rehabilitation of severely atrophic maxillae can be performed with 4 zygomatic implants (ZIs) and immediate function with predictable results in terms of aesthetics, function, and comfort for the patient. However, even if ZIs' rehabilitations showed a good success rate, this surgery is difficult and need a skillful operator. Complications in this kind of rehabilitation are not uncommon; the main difficulties can be related to the reduced surgical visibility and instrument control in a critical anatomic area. All the surgical protocols described in the literature used drilling techniques. Furthermore, the use of ultrasonic instruments in implant surgery compared with drilling instruments have shown advantages in many aspects of surgical procedures, tissues management, enhancement of control, surgical visualization, and healing. The aim of this study was to report on the preliminary experience using ultrasound technique for ZIs surgery in terms of safety and technical improvement. Ten consecutive patients with severely atrophic maxilla have been treated with 4 ZIs and immediate complete arch acrylic resin provisional prostheses. The patients were followed up from 30 to 32 months evaluating implant success, prosthetic success, and patient satisfaction with a questionnaire. No implants were lost during the study period, with a 100% implant and prosthetic success rate. Within the limitations of this preliminary study, these data indicate that ultrasonic implant site preparation for ZIs can be a good alternative to the drilling technique and an improvement for the surgeon.

Background: Ocular protrusion is usually measured as the deepestpart of the lateral orbital rim to the apex of the cornea. Severalstudies have been carried out to propose normative data for ocularprotrusion according to different age ranges. The protrusion of theeyeball seemed to increase during childhood and adolescence andbecome stable after the late teens during adulthood. Relationshipsof ocular protrusion with age are still not completely clarified. Thepurpose of the current retrospective study was to investigate ocularprotrusion on lateral x-rays at different growth stages.Methods: Ninety-five patients were retrospectively selected anddivided into 5 different groups according to ages. Subjects were ofboth sexes with an age range from 5 to 20 years (mean 12.3 years).Thecephalometricanalysisproposedinthecurrentstudyallowedtosuccessfully evaluate sagittal relationships of the orbital-globe andthe orbital-cavity ingrowing patients. Allother sagittal andverticalmeasurementsweresuccessfullycomputedbyonetrainedoperator.Results: Analysis of variance results with post hoc correctionsshowed for the orbital measurements indicating a significantincrease of the orbital protrusion from childhood to pubertal stage.Conclusions: Ocular protrusion measurements showed significantincrease from childhood (5–8 years) to teen age (13–15 years) andremainedstableafterthepubertalgrowthspurt(17–20years)intheexamined sample of patients.Key Words: Orbital growth, orbital-globe protrusion,development, aging(J Craniofac Surg 2015;26: 760–763)

Peri-implantitis may occur because of biologic or mechanical factors. It can be treated by a variety of methods. The aim of the present study is to evaluate implant surface of failed oral titanium implants after being irradiated with erbium laser.

Background: Many bone substitutes have been applied for sinus regeneration procedures, such as autogenous bone, inorganic bovine bone, porous and resorbable hydroxyapatite, tricalcium phosphate, bioactive glass, and blood clots. The aim of the present study was a tomographic, histological and histomorphometrical evaluation in humans, of specimens retrieved from sinuses augmented with MgHA/collagen-based scaffolds, after a healing period of 6 months. Materials and Methods: Eleven healthy patients and a total of 15 sinuses were included in this study. The maxillary sinuses were filled with commercial MgHA/collagen-based scaffolds (RegenOss) with a porous three-dimensional (3D) structure (Fin-Ceramica Faenza S.p.A., Faenza, Italy). These grafts have a composite design, that replicate the organization of bone structure, obtained by a technique in which a specific hybrid organic–inorganic composite is spontaneously built by a biological mechanism. The CBCT scans were done before the procedure, after the surgical protocol (T1), and 6 months after sinus surgery (T2) for implantology. Bone specimens were stored in 10% formalin solution, embedded in a glycolmethacrylate resin and sectioned by a high-precision diamond disc. Histologic and histomorphometric analysis were carried out to evaluate the graft reabsorption and bone healing. Results: The mean volume after graft elevation, calculated for each of the 15 sinuses, was 2,906 mm3 in the immediate postoperative period (5–7 days), ranging from 2,148.8 to 3,146.4 mm3. In the late postoperative period (6 months) it was 2,806.7 mm3, ranging from 2,010.9 to 3,008.9 mm3. The sinuses were completely healed and no residual MgHA/collagen-based scaffolds were visible. Osteoblasts appeared actively secreting bone matrix and marrow spaces contained moderate numbers of stromal cells and vascular network. Osteoblasts were observed actively secreting osteoid matrix. The tissues present in the samples were composed of 1.9 ± 1.9% of lamellar bone, 36 ± 1% of woven bone and 58 ± 3.8% of marrow spaces. Conclusion: Mg-MgHA/collagen-based scaffolds can successfully be used for sinus augmentation procedures.

The authors compared the efficacy of 2 different techniques for sinus membrane elevation for maxillary lining lifted using a lateral window approach: nasal suction technique and ultrasonic surgery approach versus traditional approach. Thirty partially edentulous patients, having bilaterally 1 to 5 mm of residual bone height and at least 5 mm bone width below the maxillary sinuses as measured on computed tomography scans, were randomized to receive two 2-stage sinus lift procedures using the lateral window approach. On one side, the sinus lining the membrane was elevated with nasal suction technique and ultrasonic surgery approach, whereas on the contralateral side the membrane was elevated after osteotomy prepared using a round oral surgery bur. No patient dropped out. Four small perforations of membrane (

The aim of this work was to investigate, through histological evaluation, the in vivo behavior of fresh frozen bone (FFB) used as particulate bone substitute in intraoral regenerative procedures. A total of 10 patients (group 1) received particulate FFB graft for bone regeneration in postextractive sockets, and 10 (group 2) underwent maxillary sinus augmentation by using the same bone substitute as filling. Fresh frozen bone was supplied from the Tissue Bank of the Veneto Region, Treviso Section.Healing was uneventful for all the patients and was monitored by periodical radiographs. Patients were scheduled for implant insertion according to the radiographic aspect. However, the mean healing time for group 1 was 45 days, whereas for group 2 patients, it was 100 days. At the moment of implant insertion, bone specimens were collected at the site of implant placement, from both groups and processed for histological analysis.Histological analysis after hematoxylin-eosin staining obtained from group 1 patients showed the presence of newly formed bone tissue, still well distinguishable from the grafted bone substitute. In samples from group 2 patients, a better integration could be recognized associated with active bone remodeling phenomena.These results showed a good integration of the considered FFB graft within the host tissue both at 45 and 100 days after grafting, displaying this biomaterial as suitable for preimplant regenerative procedures.