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OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to investigate the therapeutic po-tential of an orthodontic pre-formed oral appliance, belonging to the category of the Eruption Guidance Appliance (EGA). This device is silicone made and it has lots of interesting potential-ity in clinical use. This kind of removable orthodontic device is recommended during an early or a mixed dentition. To analyze the efficiency and the efficacy of this EGA in managing and resolving eruption diseases, the following case is reported. MATERIALS AND METHODS An 8-year and 7 month-old patient, female, was referred to the orthodontist by her dentist for evaluation of malocclusion. The patient presented with symmetri-cal face and a molar and canine Class I malocclusion (according to the Angle classification) and an anterior crossbite in the re-gion of the two upper and lower left central incisors (2.1 and 4.1 area) has been reported. The two incisors were affected by some periodontal diseases. From or-thopantomography it was possible to diagnose the inclusion of the upper left lateral incisor (2.2) and the absence of agenesis. The therapeutic plan, that we have adopted, has provided to treat the young patient with a preformed silicone made orthodontic appliance (LM Activa-tor™). The most advantageous aspect of this device was that it was ex-clusively for night use, for a total of 7-8 hours a day. We describe the anterior cross-bite treated in the early mixed dentition using the eruption guidance appliance as the only therapeutic device. RESULTS The use of EGA allowed the resolution of the anterior crossbite in only 15 days. This was due to the correct repositioning of the upper central incisor (2.1). Furthermore after 45 days from the beginning of therapy the incisal margin of the upper left lateral incisor (2.2) had become well evident in the arch. This type of preformed orthodontic device allowed, therefore, both the resolution of the anterior crossbite, and the eruption of the included element. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate that the Eruption Guidance Appliance is the first choice for an early orthodontic procedure of selected case. It allows to intercept dif-ferent malocclusions during the growth and reduces the need for an additional orthodontic treat-ment, which could cause im-portant diseases to periodontal tissues. Treating orthodontic malocclu-sions in the early mixed dentition through the Eruption Guidance Appliance is an effective method to restore normal and physiologi-cal occlusion. Unfortunately with-out active intervention, there are only a few spontaneous correc-tions to correct growth that can be expected. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE The treatment of dental maloc-clusions with this type of intra-oral device certainly guarantees rapid effects. Since the results are very rapid as well as evident, the patient acquires a strong motivation during the therapy. Furthermore, the results are ac-companied by a comfortable management of the device and by a very simple use of it. Both elements promote the patient’s compliance, which is essential for the effectiveness of the treatment itself. Since this type of therapy considers the facial type and the specific characteristics of each individual patient, it can be defined a “custom-ized-therapy”, to all intents and purposes. If the occlusal alterations were early intercepted and treated, further orthodontic treatment would be greatly reduced.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness in reducing dentine permeability of three different toothpastes comparing with a sodium fluoride one. Dentine permeability was measured by a fluid filtration system. Dentin discs were randomized in four experimental groups and treated with different commercial toothpastes, as it follows. Group A: Sensodyne Rapid, with strontium acetate; group B: Elmex Sensitive ProfessionalTM, with arginine and 450 ppm monofluoro-phosphate; group C: Colgate Total Advanced , with 1450 ppm NaF; group D: A Pro-Expert , with 1100 ppm SnF2. After brushing specimens of each groups were assigned to two subgroups and: 1) stored in artificial saliva (2 h) and treated with 6% citric acid for 1 min; 2) stored in artificial saliva for 24 h. SEM analysis was performed to investigate dentinal tubules occlusion of acid treated and stored in artificial saliva samples. Dentin permeability proved affected by dentifrice treatments. The toothpastes specifically formulated for hypersensitivity showed significant effects concerning decrease of dentine permeability. SEM observations demonstrated the presence of dentifrice particles on dentin surface and inside dentin tubules. Stannous fluoride treated samples exhibited the greater tubules occlusion.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect in vitro of a single application of a stannous fluoride- (SnF2-) containing toothpaste on eroded enamel. Forty-eight teeth were subjected to three acid treatments: 15% hydrochloric acid for 120 s (HA group); 1% citric acid (pH=4) for 180 s (CA group); 37% phosphoric acid for 30 s (PA group). They were brushed with an electric toothbrush with pressure control and 1 g of SnF2 (1100 ppm) toothpaste for 2 min. Polyether replicas of buccal enamel surfaces were obtained at baseline, after acid exposure and after brushing, gold sputtered and inspected by SEM for fluid droplets presence. Hydrochloric and citric acid treatments increased enamel permeability while, on the contrary, phosphoric acid reduced enamel fluid release. SnF2 application of ameliorated acid induced permeability in citric and hydrochloric treated samples. Permeability in phosphoric treated enamel was unchanged after topical application of SnF2. Our data show specific acid-dependent effects on enamel permeability and demonstrate that SnF2 application can reverse acid-induced permeability.

The objective of this work was to provide a review of the literature on studies of stem cells and their potential applications in dental practice. Research included every article published between 2000 and 2018 in PubMed PMC, Scopus, Cochrane Trial Library, and Web of Science databases featuring the keywords: regenerative dentistry, stem cells, tissue engineering. Papers that did not directly address the subject were excluded. Emphasis was given to scientific studies that showed possibilities of stem cell therapy in the oral and maxillofacial region. The methodological quality of selected papers was scored using the “Swedish Council on Technology Assessment in Health Care Criteria for Grading Assessed Studies” (SBU) method. Two review authors independently assessed eligibility, extracted data and verified the quality of the studies.

Orthodontic tooth movement determines a biological response of all the tissues surrounding the teeth to which force is applied. The aim of this study is to evaluate which ideal orthodontic force, at the biological level, arouses an acute inflammatory response on periodontal tissues, and the duration of the force in order to establish an ideal experimental model of dental movement. The periodontal ligament and the alveolar bone change abruptly due to the biochemical adaptive response, resulting in a re-organization of the intracellular and the extracellular matrix. There is a modification of the local vascularization which stimulates a cascade production, synthesis and the release of arachidonic acid, metabolites, proteins, such as cytokines, and growth factors. Every dentist can control and should know the above-mentioned mechanism. Moreover, the production of proteins by modulating the direction and the intensity of the force can be changed but, above all, the duration.

Dental agenesis has a great clinical significance due to its frequency during daily practice and the therapeutic problems that can arise from it. This paper will explore all the aspects to consider in order creating a proper multidisciplinary treatment plan: in particular, orthodontic, prosthetic and implantologic therapeutic alternatives are described for the rehabilitation of the different areas of the dental arches. In fact, dental agenesis is a problem that often requires the intervention of specialists from the different fields of dentistry and its treatment must meet aesthetics needs, stomatognathic function and patient satisfaction.

In straight-wire mechanics, friction can significantly influence the forces expressed by wires. The aim of this study is to assess whether the aging and the sum of elastomeric ligatures affect the static friction during orthodontic space closure. A 0.017x 0.025-in SS was drawn throughout a 3-bracket experimental model and engaged with elastomeric ligatures. Before performing the test, the ligatures were soaked in artificial saliva for 48 hours (Group 1), 2 weeks (Group 2) and 4 weeks (Group 3); brand-new ligatures were also tested as control group (Group 4). The resistance to sliding (RS) was recorded at 3 different numerical configurations of ligatures using a customized testing machine and tests were repeated for ten times. Data of RS were statistically analysed by using two way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s multiple comparison tests. RS was found to increase systematically when more elastomeric ligatures were included in the wire engaging system. At two weeks of immersion in artificial saliva elastomeric ligatures showed the lowest values of RS while they became significantly more frictional after immersion for 4 weeks. The results of this study showed that in multi-bracket orthodontic therapy, the RS increases with the number of elastomeric ligatures involved for arch-wire engagement. Differently from the frictional behavior of elastomeric modules, the aging of these ligatures does not influence their incremental effect of frictional forces.

This blinded trial was conducted to analyze possible correlations between the cervical vertebrae maturation method (CVM) and the mineralization of mandibular teeth as described by Demirjian et al. (TMS). Panoramic and cephalometric radiographs of 500 orthodontic patients were analyzed by two blinded operators. TMS was utilized to analyze mineralization of second molar, second and first premolar and canine on the left side of the mandible; CVM stage was also evaluated. A blinded statistician performed statistical correlations and multiple regression analysis. Significant relations between CVM and TMS stages were identified for each tooth. Significant age differences resulted for CVM, second molar and second premolar (p

The first option in the rehabilitation of the posterior atrophic maxilla is the sinus lift. The aim of this study is to highlight the characteristics that a sinus lift should have to maximize the subsequent implant survival rate. 33 systematic reviews regarding sinus lift procedures, implants success and survival rates were identified through scientific archives and analysed. The obtained results indicated that a heterogeneity of sinus lift procedures are described in the literature. The sinus lift should be performed through the apposition of particulate xenograft materials, in at least 4mm residual bone. Implants should have a rough surface and the patient should be non-smoker.

A new developed collagen matrix CM-10826 (CM) of porcine origin designed to be used as oral soft tissue substitute was investigated before and after implantation by light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In a case series biopsy specimens were harvested from thirteen patients at 10, 20, 30, 43 days after abutment surgery for uncovering dental implants. The in vivo histological evaluations of each patient were performed via micro-coring of newly formed oral mucosa in the area covered by CM (test side) or left uncovered (control). Results showed that CM can be integrated in connective and epithelial tissues within 10 days, can be completely resorbed within 20 days and it is able to reduce inflammatory infiltrates and to stimulate both fibroblast/epithelial cell proliferation and neo-angiogenesis. Generally it seems to be superior in promoting soft tissue healing compared to that induced by secondary intention healing. Furthermore, it is able to act as a scaffold for soft-tissue regeneration, allowing the proliferation of keratinocytes from the wound edges and favoring neovascularization and growth of connective tissue in the mesh of porous layer. It appears that a CM might function in oral surgery as a substitute for autologous grafts and to avoid secondary intention healing in soft tissue defects.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to evaluate the reliability and clinical utility of NS3 sequencing in hepatitis C virus (HCV) 1-infected patients who were candidates to start a PI-containing regimen. METHODS: NS3 protease sequencing was performed by in-house-developed HCV-1 subtype-specific protocols. Phylogenetic analysis was used to test sequencing reliability and concordance with previous genotype/subtype assignment by commercial genotyping assays. RESULTS: Five hundred and sixty-seven HCV plasma samples with quantifiable HCV-RNA from 326 HCV-infected patients were collected between 2011 and 2014. Overall, the success rate of NS3 sequencing was 88.9%. The success rate between the two subtype protocols (HCV-1a/HCV-1b) was similarly high for samples with HCV-RNA >3 log IU/mL (>92% success rate), while it was slightly lower for HCV-1a samples with HCV-RNA ≤3 log IU/mL compared with HCV-1b samples. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the genotype/subtype given by commercial genotyping assays in 92.9% (303/326) of cases analysed. In the remaining 23 cases (7.1%), 1 was HCV-1g (previously defined as subtype 1a), 1 was HCV-4d (previously defined as genotype 1b) and 1 was HCV-1b (previously defined as genotype 2a/2c). In the other cases, NS3 sequencing precisely resolved the either previous undetermined/discordant subtype 1 or double genotype/subtype assignment by commercial genotyping assays. Resistance-associated variants (RAVs) to PI were detected in 31.0% of samples. This prevalence changed according to PI experience (17.1% in PI-naive patients versus 79.2% in boceprevir/telaprevir/simeprevir-failing patients). Among 96 patients with available virological outcome following boceprevir/telaprevir treatment, a trend of association between baseline NS3 RAVs and virological failure was observed (particularly for HCV-1a-infected patients: 3/21 failing patients versus 0/22 achieving sustained virological response; P = 0.11). CONCLUSIONS: HCV-NS3 sequencing provides reliable results and at the same time gives two clinically relevant pieces of information: a correct subtype/genotype assignment and the detection of variants that may interfere with the efficacy of PI.

Background & Aims: Despite the excellent efficacy of direct-acting antivirals (DAA) reported in clinical trials, virological failures can occur, often associated with the development of resistance-associated substitutions (RASs). This study aimed to characterize the presence of clinically relevant RASs to all classes in real-life DAA failures. Methods: Of the 200 virological failures that were analyzed in 197 DAA-treated patients, 89 with pegylated-interferon+ribavirin (PegIFN+RBV) and 111 without (HCV-1a/1b/1g/2/3/4=58/83/1/6/24/25; 56.8% treatment experienced; 65.5% cirrhotic) were observed. Sanger sequencing of NS3/NS5A/NS5B was performed by home-made protocols, at failure (N= 200) and whenever possible at baseline (N= 70). Results: The majority of the virological failures were relapsers (57.0%), 22.5% breakthroughs, 20.5% non-responders. RAS prevalence varied according to IFN/RBV use, DAA class, failure type and HCV genotype/subtype. It was 73.0% in IFN group vs 49.5% in IFN free, with the highest prevalence of NS5A-RASs (96.1%), compared to NS3-RASs (75.9% with IFN, 70.5% without) and NS5B-RASs (66.6% with IFN, 20.4% without, in sofosbuvir failures). In the IFN-free group, RASs were higher in breakthrough/non-responders than in relapsers (90.5% vs 40.0%, P= 2 DAA classes showed multiclass resistance, including 11/11 NS3+NS5A failures. Furthermore, 20.0% of patients had baseline-RASs, which were always confirmed at failure. Conclusions: In our failure setting, RAS prevalence was remarkably high in all genes, with a partial exception for NS5B, whose limited resistance is still higher than previously reported. This multiclass resistance advocates for HCV resistance testing at failure, in all three genes for the best second-line therapeutic tailoring.

AIM: Retention is the phase of orthodontic treatment that attempts to hold teeth in their corrected positions after orthodontic therapy is completed. The aim of this study was to consider fiber-reinforced composites (FRC) as a possible alternative to conventional multistranded stainless steel wire for retention through SEM analysis. METHODS: Two different FRC orthodontic retainers were investigated, i.e. Everstick® (Stick Tech Ltd, Turku, Finland) (type A, 24 samples), with a diameter of 0.76 mm made of glass fibers and a Young's modulus of elasticity of 28 gpa, and Ribbond® (Ribbond, Inc., Seattle, Washington, WA, USA) (type B, 24 samples), with ultra high molecular weight and with an high Young's modulus of elasticity by polyethylene fibers cold treated with plasma gas. Six groups were created: control groups A1 and B1, composed by 8 type A and 8 type B samples without impregnation and only with fluid resin before curing; groups A2 and B2, composed respectively by 8 type A and 8 type B samples impregnated with fluid resin Heliobond for 6 seconds; groups A3 and B3, composed respectively by 8 type A and 8 type B samples impregnated with fluid resin Heliobond for 6 minutes before curing. RESULTS: Cross- and lengthwise SEM analysis of the sectioned samples made showed that fiber without impregnation with fluid resin, before curing, showed interwoven and straight directed cylindrical fibers. The SEM analysis denoted that the two types of fiber shows structural characteristics differing in dimension, number, diameter and orientation of FRC without a preliminary treatment through impregnation of the fibers with fluid resin. CONCLUSION: An impregnation time of 6 seconds could considerably reduced voids, crazes and microcracks of the fibers, making them more resistant to the other oral and bacterial agents. A larger time of impregnation (6 minutes), with fluid resin before hardening, further enhances the morphological characteristics of the FRC.

BACKGROUND: Myeloablative and hematopoietic stem cells transplantation therapy (HSCT) often acts as side-effect to oral mucositis (OM) with no effective treatment. This randomized-controlled trial analyzed the efficacy of palifermin, administered as a dose during HSCT therapy, as primary prophylaxis on pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). METHODS: In this study forty-six patients (9-15 years) with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) were analyzed. The patients underwent allogenic HSCT conditioned by myeloablative regimen. Subsequently to randomization, patients in the palifermin group were assigned to receive palifermin, 60 mg/kg, intravenously as a single dose 3 days before and after transplant conditioning regimen cycle. The patients in the Control group received only a placebo treatment. Maximum severity of OM, incidence and duration of ulcerative OM, incidence and duration of severe OM limitations were evaluated. RESULTS: A statistically significant reduction in the incidence of OM up to grade 3 in the palifermin group compared to the control group was discovered. There was also a reduction, confirmed at 60 days, in the degree of severity of mucositis in the palifermin group, with an average of 1.54 grade in the palifermin group, and of 2.16 in the Control group and in the use of opioid analgesics. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that a single dose of palifermin used as primary prophylaxis during HSTC therapy can prevent severe OM in pediatric patients with ALL and used as secondary prophylaxis can prevent the recurrence of severe OM in high-risk patients with previous mucosal injury and improves the quality of life in pediatric patients with ALL.

OBIETTIVI. Lo scopo di questo studio è stato valutare le caratteristiche, le altera- zioni morfostrutturali e le conseguenze disfunzionali dell’articolazione temporo- mandibolare (ATM) in pazienti affetti da artrite idiopatica giovanile (AIG).MATERIALI E METODI. Lo studio è stato condotto su 45 soggetti di età compresa tra 7 e 19 anni, affetti da AIG. Tutti i pa- zienti arruolati sono stati sottoposti a va- lutazione clinico-gnatologica (anamnesi, parametri di laboratorio, tipo di terapia) e strumentale mediante l’imaging a riso- nanza magnetica delle ATM.RISULTATI. Dei 45 pazienti del campio- ne,il37,8%presentavainteressamento dell’ATM. Tra questi pazienti (17 pazienti, 13 femmine e 4 maschi) si sono riscon- trate: forma poliarticolare 41,2% (7 ca- si), forma oligoarticolare 35,3% (6 casi), artrite sistemica 11,8% (2 casi), artrite psoriasica 5,9% (1 caso), sindrome ente- site-artrite (SEA) 5,9% (1 caso). I principalisintomi riportati erano: click temporo- mandibolare monolaterale e bilaterale, limitazione funzionale monolaterale e bi- laterale associata a dolore, click bilaterale e monolaterale durante la masticazione e laterodeviazione mandibolare associata a sintomatologia delle ATM.CONCLUSIONI. I risultati ottenuti in questo studio suggeriscono l’utilità di un’attenta valutazione gnatologica all’esordio dell’AIG. Controlli periodici associati a una diagnosi precoce sono infatti in grado di ridurre e migliorare le problematiche funzionali ed estetiche in questi giovani pazienti. OBJECTIVES. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics, the morphostructural and dysfunctional concerns of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).MATERIALS AND METHODS. The study was conducted on 45 subjects with JIA, aged between 7 and 19 years. All patients enrolled were subjected to clinical evalua- tion (medical history, laboratory param- eters and type of therapy) and instru- mental evaluation (magnetic resonance imaging of the TMJ).RESULTS. Of the 45 patients analyzed in the sample, 37.8% presented involvement of TMJ. These patients (17 patients, 13 fe- males and 4 males) presented with poly- articular arthritis 41.2% (7 patients), oli- goarticular arthritis 35.3% (6 patients), systemic arthritis 11.8% (2 patients), psoriatic arthritis 5.9% (1 patient), En- thesitis Arthritis Syndrome (EAS) 5.9% (1 patient). The main symptoms reported were: TMJ unilateral and bilateral click- ing, unilateral and bilateral functional limitation associated with pain, unilater- al and bilateral clicking during chewing and mandibular lateral deviation associ- ated with TMJ symptoms.CONCLUSIONS. The results obtained in this study underline the importance of a careful gnathological evaluation at the onset of JIA. Moreover, periodic follow-ups associated with an early di- agnosis are indeed capable of reducing and improving functional and aesthetic problems in these young patients.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics, the morphostructural and dysfunctional concerns of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Materials and methods The study was conducted on 45 subjects with JIA, aged between 7 and 19 years. All patients enrolled were subjected to clinical evaluation (medical history, laboratory parameters and type of therapy) and instrumental evaluation (magnetic resonance imaging of the TMJ). Results Of the 45 patients analysed in the sample, 37.8% presented involvement of TMJ. These patients (17 patients, 13 females and 4 males) presented with polyarticular arthritis 41.2% (7 patients), oligoarticular arthritis 35.3% (6 patients), systemic arthritis 11.8% (2 patients), psoriatic arthritis 5.9% (1 patient), Enthesitis Arthritis Syndrome (EAS) 5.9% (1 patient). The main symptoms reported were: TMJ unilateral and bilateral clicking, unilateral and bilateral functional limitation associated with pain, unilateral and bilateral clicking during chewing and mandibular lateral deviation associated with TMJ symptoms. Conclusions The results obtained in this study underline the importance of a careful gnathological evaluation at the onset of JIA. Moreover, periodic follow-ups associated with an early diagnosis are indeed capable of reducing and improving functional and aesthetic problems in these young patients. Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics, the morphostructural and dysfunctional concerns of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Materials and methods The study was conducted on 45 subjects with JIA, aged between 7 and 19 years. All patients enrolled were subjected to clinical evaluation (medical history, laboratory parameters and type of therapy) and instrumental evaluation (magnetic resonance imaging of the TMJ). Results Of the 45 patients analysed in the sample, 37.8% presented involvement of TMJ. These patients (17 patients, 13 females and 4 males) presented with polyarticular arthritis 41.2% (7 patients), oligoarticular arthritis 35.3% (6 patients), systemic arthritis 11.8% (2 patients), psoriatic arthritis 5.9% (1 patient), Enthesitis Arthritis Syndrome (EAS) 5.9% (1 patient). The main symptoms reported were: TMJ unilateral and bilateral clicking, unilateral and bilateral functional limitation associated with pain, unilateral and bilateral clicking during chewing and mandibular lateral deviation associated with TMJ symptoms. Conclusions The results obtained in this study underline the importance of a careful gnathological evaluation at the onset of JIA. Moreover, periodic follow-ups associated with an early diagnosis are indeed capable of reducing and improving functional and aesthetic problems in these young patients.

We present a case of giant Splenorenal Shunt (SRS) associated with portal vein thrombosis in a 37-year-old woman with a twelve-year history of autoimmune hepatitis/primary biliary cholangitis overlap syndrome. At the moment of the CT examination laboratory tests showed creatinine 1.5 mg/dl, bilirubin 1.5 mg/dl, INR 3, and Na 145 mmol/l and the Model End-Stage Liver Disease score was 24. Extensive calcified thrombosis causing complete occlusion of the portal vein lumen and partially occluding the origin of the superior mesenteric vein was present and a small calcified thrombus in the Splenic Vein lumen was also evident. SRS was located among the spleen hilum and the left kidney with a maximum diameter of 3.25 cm and was associated with dilatation of left renal vein and inferior vena cava. After a multidisciplinary evaluation the patient was put on the Regional Liver Transplant waiting list and liver transplantation was performed successfully. Although portal vein thrombosis and SRS are common occurrences in cirrhotic patients, the impact in the natural history of the disease is still unclear. Careful management and accurate imaging protocols are essential in the evaluation of those patients.

Distraction osteogenesis of the Mandible: problems connected with dental movements. Distraction Osteogenesis(DO) is a techinique that leads to osseus generation and osteosynthesis by means of slow traction applied to the bone and the soft tissues. The present case shows the forward movement of the mandible using the DO in a skeletal class II iperdivergent patient, with a mandibular retrusion. DO provides a slower, and thus more "physiological", solution for skeleton malocclusion than the usual traditional techniques. It is necessary, however, to follow up surgery with an appropriate orthodontic finalization.

Scopo del presente lavoro è quello di evidenziare eventuali analogie e differenze nel comportamento meccanico dei compositi rinforzati con fibre di vetro (G-FRCs) quando analizzati in condizioni di conservazione differente (ambiente umido e ambiente secco), nonché di confrontare le caratteristiche meccaniche dei G-FRCs con quelle dei tradizionali fili intrecciati in acciaio, comunemente utilizzati per la contenzione fissa postortodontica nei settori anteriori dell’arcata mascellare e mandibolare. Per ogni campione è stato effettuato un test di flessione (three-point bending test) con distanza tra i supporti di 5 mm, al fine di simulare il più possibile la situazione clinica. A parità di distanza tra i supporti di 5 mm e di deflessione pari a 1 mm, i G-FRCs conservati in ambiente umido (Gruppo A1) raggiungono valori di massimo carico e massimo stress inferiori ai G-FRCs conservati in ambiente secco (Gruppo A2) e sovrapponibili a quelli ottenuti dai test effettuati sui fili ortodontici intrecciati in acciaio (Gruppo B). L’analisi statistica ha evidenziato differenze statisticamente significative tra i Gruppi A2 e B (p < 0,001) e non statisticamente significative tra i Gruppi A1 e B (p < 0,088). Questo studio confronta le proprietà meccaniche di due diversi materiali utilizzati in ortodonzia per la realizzazione di contenzioni fisse e mette in evidenza l’effetto del tipo di conservazione (secco/umido) sulle proprietà meccaniche degli stessi. The aim of this study was to highlight analogies and differences on flexural properties of G-FRCs in different storage conditions: dry and wet, and to investigate the flexural properties of orthodontic G-FRCs vs stainless steel twisted retainers. For each sample a three-point bending test was carried out with a material testing machine. Condition being equal (span length and deflection) the wet fibers reach inferior loads, showing characteristics more similar to steel and demonstrate more elasticity compared to the dry fibers. However, the steel wire, reach loads much inferior than the glass fibers and demonstrate more elasticity compared to the glass fibers dry and wet. The different material and the different storage modality (dry and wet) significantly influenced the maximum load and the maximum stress (p < 0.001). In all the tests carried out no samples showed complete fractures, but microfractures clinically was observed as white spots.

The objective of this study is to illustrate: a method of SEM digital image processing able to quantify and discriminate between the morphological characteristics of reduced enamel surfaces, when compared with non treated enamel, by treatment with the stripping and finishing technique that proved to be the best in a previous study.

A hight angle class II with severe crowding in bothe arches is presented. Treatment was carried out by extraction of all first premolars and fixed therapy with MBT sistem and the use of a headgear. The favourable outcome was possible because of the patient's excellent cooperation.

The present stdy in intended to compare in vitro and in vivo the corrosion resistance of Stainless steel when traditionally soldered and when laser welded. Orthodontic appliances were studied: Sem analysis, Edax and Weigt change was performed. Our study showed that laser welded samples have superior resistance to corrosion.

In this prospective randomized study we compared two groups of patients with grade II hemorrhoids treated with standard Rubber Band Ligation (RBL) and Combined Hemorrhoidal Radiocoagulation (CHR), respectively.Out of 90 patients initially randomized, a total of 75 patients regularly returned to visit controls at least for 6 months of follow-up. Consequently, two groups of patients were considered: Group A, represented by 36 individuals treated with RBL, and Group B, consisting of 39 patients treated with CHR. In this study primary endpoints were determined as evaluation of the grade of pain felt immediately after the procedure and at the first evacuation (score from 1 to 10), bleeding, patient's satisfaction after 15 days and after 6 months from the treatment (score from 1 to 10), appearance of failures.Comparing two techniques, the mean pain score reported immediately after the procedure was 2.08 +/- 1.1 for Group A and 2.13 +/- 1.26 or Group B. At the first evacuation, the mean pain score for Group A and for Group B was 2.69 +/- 1.12 vs. 2.38 +/- 1.18, respectively. The satisfaction score during the first 15 days from the procedure was 6.61 +/- 2.35 for patients treated with RBL and 6.72 +/- 2.28 for patients who received CHR, while the mean score on overall satisfaction after 6 months was 7.11 +/- 2.11 (Group A) vs. 7.31 +/- 2.04 (Group B). At 6 months of follow-up, we observed remission of symptoms in 25 patients in Group A (69.4%) and 31 patients in Group B (79.5%).Satisfactory results were reported in both groups of patients after different treatments, which confirm the validity and efficacy of the two techniques used in this study. At least all patients reported positive results in terms of immediate and long-term comfort after both procedures. CHR showed better results than standard RBL, but further studies are required to evaluate the validity of these methods.

Prevention and Treatment of White Spots in Fixed Orthodontics. Aim of Study: To outline a protocol that can reduce or prevent white spots in patients with fixed orthodontics. Material and methods: A total number of 150 patients were selected. White spots were diagnosed in 32 patients (Test Group) during fixed orthodontics. The Test Group was divided into two: Group A (16 patients) and Group B (16 patients). Group A was treated with mouthwash with 0.12% clorexidine diluted to 50% to be applied in the morning for a month as well as a fluoride gel to be applied in the evening for a month. Group B was treated with placebo. Results: In 85% of group A patients there was a statistically significant reduction (p

The authors describe the clinical importance of space maintenancy in primary and mixed dentition, a particualr attention must be paid because of the problems that may often arise during skeletal and occlusal growth. This article shows a fixed appliance that was used to maintain the space of a missing lateral incisor during rapid palatal expansion.

Aim: to define the modern concept of facial appearance and to correlate this with the evolving trends in facial aesthetics. Materials and methods: to identify the aesthetic trends and fashion from the past up until the present:  a review of orthodontic literature over the last twenty years was carried out;  an analysis of the effect of the “media”: cinema, tv and magazines on the concept of facial appearance. The data collected was related to results of the cephalometrics analysis most up-to-date and most widely used, whether orthodontic or surgical. Results:  The most universally accepted parameters of beauty, which tend to have a considerable influence on the expectations of patients, were extrapolated.  Guidelines were identified when planning the orthodontic treatment in order to achieve a pleasing a esthetic result: facial and dental proportions, facial symmetry, pattern of facial growth, shape/position and fullness of the lips, the relationship between the upper and lower lips, effects of extractive versus non extractive treatment, the effects of growth and changes in the soft tissue related to the growth, the patient's age. Conclusions: our study enabled us to identify modern concept of facial beauty and to evaluate which ones remain universally valid. Guidelines were identify which gave indications for planning orthodontic treatment which, across the mystery of beauty, guided us in obtaining maximum a esthetics in the face and smile.

The impact of extractions on facial aesthetics is one of the most discussed and controversial topics in orthodontics. Clinical evidence and a wide literature show that extractions don’t affect negatively the facial appearance, at condition that diagnosis, treatment planning and treatment mechanics are correct. The impact of extractions on facial aesthetics is one of the most discussed and controversial topics in orthodontics. Clinical evidence and a wide literature show that extractions don’t affect negatively the facial appearance, at condition that diagnosis, treatment planning and treatment mechanics are correct.