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Background: Traditional root canal therapy (RCT) effectively removes diseased or necrotic pulp tissue and replaces it with inorganic materials. Regenerative endodontics is an alternative to conventional RCT by using biologically based approaches to restore the pulp–dentin complex. This review explores emerging techniques, including autogenic and allogenic pulp transplantation, platelet-rich fibrin, human amniotic membrane scaffolds, specialized pro-resolving mediators, nanofibrous and bioceramic scaffolds, injectable hydrogels, dentin matrix proteins, and cell-homing strategies. These methods utilize stem cells, growth factors, and biomaterials to regenerate vascularized, functional pulp tissue. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Embase to identify studies published between 2010 and 2023. In vitro, animal, and clinical studies focusing on innovative regenerative endodontic techniques were analyzed. Conclusions: Although regenerative endodontics demonstrates great potential, challenges remain in standardizing protocols, addressing biological variability, and achieving consistent clinical outcomes. Future research must focus on refining these techniques to ensure their safety, efficacy, and accessibility in routine practice. By addressing current limitations, regenerative endodontics could redefine the management of pulpitis, offering biologically based treatments that enhance tooth vitality, structural integrity, and long-term prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The gold standard in the non-surgical treatment of periodontitis is scaling and root planning (SRP). In recent years, studies have emerged suggesting additional clinical benefits from the use of statins as an adjunct to classical periodontal disease treatment. The aim of the present study was to review the relevant literature relating to the subgingival use of statins as an adjunctive treatment to the classical, non-surgical treatment of periodontitis, with a particular focus on groups with general factors that may affect the outcome of treatment. Methods: The authors conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The electronic literature search conducted included the MEDLINE (PubMed) database, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar from 1 January 2012 to 14 June 2024. The keywords used for the PubMed search were determined with the help of the MeSH Browser Tool and were as follows: Periodontitis [Mesh] AND Statin [Mesh] OR Simvastatin [Mesh] OR Atorvastatin [Mesh] or Rosuvastatin Calcium [Mesh]. Based on the authors' inclusion and exclusion criteria, 20 results were included in the review, out of 937. Results: The improvement was more pronounced in patients without systematic diseases compared to those with type II diabetes and in non-smokers compared to smoking patients. Greater improvements in clinical and radiological parameters were seen in patients diagnosed with aggressive periodontitis compared to patients with chronic periodontitis. Conclusions: This literature review led the authors to the conclusion that statins applied locally might be competent agents for improving the therapeutic outcomes of SRP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral candidiasis, predominantly caused by Candida albicans, presents significant challenges in treatment due to increasing antifungal resistance and biofilm formation. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) using natural photosensitizers like riboflavin and hypericin offers a potential alternative to conventional antifungal therapies. Material and Methods: A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of riboflavin- and hypericin-mediated aPDT in reducing Candida infections. The PRISMA framework guided the selection and analysis of 16 eligible studies published between 2014 and 2024. Data on light parameters, photosensitizer concentrations, and outcomes were extracted to assess antifungal effects. Results: Both riboflavin- and hypericin-mediated aPDT demonstrated significant antifungal activity, achieving substantial reductions in Candida biofilm and planktonic cell viability. Riboflavin activated by blue light and hypericin activated by yellow or orange light effectively targeted fluconazole-resistant Candida strains with minimal cytotoxicity to host tissues. However, complete biofilm eradication remained challenging, and variations in protocols highlighted the need for standardization. Conclusions: Riboflavin- and hypericin-mediated aPDT present promising, biocompatible alternatives for managing antifungal resistance in Candida infections. Further clinical trials and standardized protocols are essential to optimize outcomes and confirm efficacy in broader clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often struggle with dental care due to sensory sensitivities and behavioral issues, increasing their risk for oral health problems. Adaptation strategies such as visual aids, video modeling, and sensory-adapted environments aim to improve their dental experiences. Methods: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines using the PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Of the 1072 records screened, nine RCTs were included in the analysis. Studies included children with ASD under 18 years and compared dental adaptation techniques with traditional care. The risk of bias and study quality were assessed. The quality of evidence for the results was determined using the GRADE tool. Results: Nine RCTs with sample sizes ranging from 25 to 138 participants showed significant improvements in oral hygiene, reduced anxiety, and increased cooperation. Video modeling and sensory-adapted environments were particularly effective in lowering distress during dental visits. Conclusions: Dental adaptation strategies, especially video modeling and sensory-adapted environments, effectively improve oral health outcomes and reduce anxiety in children with ASD. More research is needed to explore the long-term effects and include children with severe ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent years, the utilization of blood concentrates in dentistry has become increasingly prevalent. In 2014, the development of injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) was achieved. One of the key benefits of i-PRF is its ability to consistently release a range of growth factors. This review aimed to determine whether i-PRF could be used for gingival augmentation. Methods: The research involved a search of the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases using the following search terms: ("microneedling" or "micro needling" or "injectable platelet-rich fibrin" or "i-PRF") and ("gingival augmentation" or "augmentation" or "attached gingiva" or "attached mucosa" or "soft tissue augmentation" or "KM" or "keratinized mucosa"). Results: Of the 668 results, 8 articles meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the article. The results of the studies analyzed indicated a significant increase in gingival thickness. Furthermore, some articles demonstrated an increase in keratinized tissue width. The augmentation of the gingival thickness with i-PRF yielded no inferior results in comparison to the free gingival graft, which is the current gold standard, resulting in a superior aesthetic outcome and a reduction in postoperative discomfort. Conclusions: This systematic review allowed the authors to conclude that the use of i-PRF or hyaluronic acid may be the first step towards developing a non-surgical method of gingival augmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gold standard in the non-surgical treatment of periodontitis is scaling and root planing (SRP). In recent years, the use of autogenous platelet concentrates has spread over many specialties in dentistry and, thus, has also been gaining popularity in periodontal treatment. Its two main fractions are platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), which, since 2014, can also be used via injection as injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF). The authors conducted a comprehensive systematic review in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. It involved searching PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases using the phrases ("Root Planing" OR "Subgingival Curettage" OR "Periodontal Debridement") AND ("Platelet-Rich Plasma"). Based on the authors' inclusion and exclusion criteria, 12 results were included in the review, out of 1170 total results. The objective of this review was to ascertain the impact of utilizing PRP and i-PRF in SRP. The results revealed that both the incorporation of PRP and i-PRF were found to be significantly associated with are duction in gingival pocket depth and again in clinical attachment level; however, i-PRF demonstrated superiority in improving clinical parameters. Furthermore, i-PRF demonstrated notable bactericidal efficacy against Porphyromonas gingivalis. On the other hand, PRP proved inferior to an Nd:YAG laser in clinical parameter improvement; however, it demonstrated significant efficiency as well. This literature review led the authors to the conclusion that autologous platelet concentrates might be competent agents for improving the therapeutic outcomes of SRP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fear and anxiety are common psychological responses to unpleasant stimuli, with dental fear being the fourth most prevalent type of fear or phobia. However, not all dental procedures cause the same level of anxiety, with dental surgery and tooth extraction being among the top five most frightening procedures in the field. Tooth extractions are also the most common surgical procedure in dental surgery. It is important to manage anxiety in the dental office by identifying the main factors. Methods: The study was conducted on a group of 250 patients. The survey technique and the Beliefs about Pain Control Questionnaire (BPCQ) were used in the study. Pain and stress intensity on a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were measured in each patient before and after tooth extraction procedures. Results: Young women and people from small towns had the highest levels of anxiety. The factor causing the highest level of anxiety was fear of complications. Patients undergoing extraction of retained teeth were characterized by higher levels of anxiety. Conclusions: Perioperative stress is strongly dependent on numerous factors. For patient comfort, it may be crucial for dentists to have knowledge about these factors and the ability to utilize them to reduce stress before and after tooth extractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Amniotic membrane (AM) holds significant promise in various medical fields due to its unique properties and minimal ethical concerns. This study aims to explore the diverse applications of the human amniotic membrane (HAM) in maxillofacial surgery. Methodology: A comprehensive search was conducted on databases, namely Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus, from January 1985 to March 2024. Articles in English, Polish, and Spanish were included, focusing on keywords related to amniotic membrane and oral surgery. Results: Various preservation methods for HAM were identified, namely fresh, decellularized, cryopreserved, lyophilized, and air-dried formats. Clinical studies demonstrated the efficacy of HAM in repairing oral mucosal defects, vestibuloplasty, oronasal fistula closure, cleft palate treatment, bone defect repair, and medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). Surgeon evaluations highlighted the ease of handling but noted challenges in suturing and stability during application. Conclusions: Amniotic membranes offer a versatile and effective option in maxillofacial surgery, promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation, and providing a scaffold for tissue regeneration. Further research, including randomized trials and comparative studies, is warranted to validate the efficacy and optimize the utilization of HAM in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]