This study analyzed the publication characteristics, citation patterns, and research trends of the Turkish Journal of Orthodontics (TJO) since its Web of Science (WoS) indexing in 2017. A retrospective bibliometric analysis was conducted using data from the WoS Core Collection (2018-24) on April, 2025. Network analysis was performed using CiteSpace 6.3.R1 and VOSviewer 1.6.18. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze publication trends, authorship patterns, geographical distribution, and citation performance. A total of 244 publications were analyzed, comprising 192 (78.7%) original articles, 27 (11.1%) reviews, eight (3.3%) systematic reviews, and 17 (7.0%) case reports. The journal achieved an h-index of 15, with 1408 total citations and an average of 5.77 citations per article. Türkiye contributed the most publications (58.2%), followed by India (16.8%), the USA (6.6%), and Iran (5.3%). International collaboration involved 39 countries, and the most-cited article received 32 citations. The gender distribution of authorship was closely balanced: 52.2% female and 47.8% male. 94.7% of publications were multi-authored, with an average of 3.5 authors per article. Keyword analysis revealed thematic clusters dominated by clear aligners, malocclusion, cone-beam computed tomography, and dental materials. TJO shows consistent growth in publication volume, expansion of international collaboration, and increases in citation impact since WoS indexing. The journal successfully captures emerging trends in clear aligners and rapid maxillary expansion while maintaining coverage of fundamental orthodontic topics. A strategic editorial evolution toward systematic reviews indicates a commitment to evidencebased practice. This bibliometric overview offers a data-driven foundation for future editorial decision-making and monitoring the journal's evolving role within orthodontic research.
In situations where orthodontic tooth movement is expected to exceed the preexisting alveolar envelope, surgically facilitated orthodontic therapy (SFOT) has been advocated to expand the alveolar housing and reduce periodontal risks. However, detailed descriptions of soft-tissue management during SFOT remain limited. This technical note describes a surgical protocol incorporating a coronally advanced flap (CAF) within a segmental SFOT approach and illustrates its clinical application in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment requiring simultaneous periodontal phenotype modification. The proposed CAF-assisted SFOT protocol is based on three main principles: limiting the surgical intervention to the orthodontically involved segment, applying established mucogingival surgical principles to ensure predictable flap management, and using an acellular dermal matrix to contribute to both graft containment and soft-tissue thickening. The described technique provides a structured approach for integrating soft-tissue management into SFOT procedures and may facilitate simultaneous hard- and soft-tissue augmentation in orthodontic patients requiring phenotype modification. This case provides new information as it is, to the best of our knowledge, the first technical report describing the application of coronally advanced flap principles within a segmental surgically facilitated orthodontic therapy protocol. Successful management of this case relies on accurate interdisciplinary orthodontic-periodontal diagnosis, careful treatment planning, and appropriate flap management to ensure tension-free coronal advancement and graft stabilization. The primary limitation of this report is the absence of prospective clinical studies evaluating the long-term outcomes of this technique. Orthodontic treatment sometimes requires moving teeth beyond the natural limits of the surrounding bone, which can increase the risk of gum recession and other periodontal problems. Surgically facilitated orthodontic therapy (SFOT) has been introduced to expand the supporting bone and make such movements safer, but there is limited information on how to manage the gums during these procedures. This report describes a surgical approach that combines SFOT with a commonly used gum surgery technique called a coronally advanced flap. The procedure focuses only on the area where teeth are being moved, applies well-established principles of gum surgery to ensure stable healing, and uses a soft-tissue substitute to help protect the graft and thicken the gums. This technique offers a structured way to address both bone and gum deficiencies at the same time during orthodontic treatment. While promising, further clinical studies are needed to confirm its long-term effectiveness.
Tooth autotransplantation (TA) is a proven and effective treatment option for children with missing teeth; however, it is seldom performed in the United States due in part to the lack of knowledge about its practicality and costs. In this study the authors sought to analyze and compare costs of TA with the most common tooth replacement options being used. A comprehensive literature review and expert panel were used to establish treatment clinical pathways. Procedural costs were calculated using the CDT 2024: Current Dental Terminology codes, and their corresponding fees from FAIR Health data and the American Dental Association Survey of Dental Fees. Time costs, which were defined as work time lost per appointment for families, were calculated using the US Bureau of Labor Statistics hourly wage data and number of visits. A cost model was constructed comparing the cost of maxillary anterior TA in patients aged 8 through 25 years with the associated costs of implant-supported prosthesis, resin-bonded fixed partial denture, and orthodontic space closure. Implant-supported prosthesis without or with orthodontics was more costly (procedural costs: $9,186-$15,279) than TA with limited or comprehensive orthodontics (procedural costs: $6,134-$10,355). Resin-bonded fixed partial denture without orthodontic treatment was the least costly (procedural costs: $4,455; time costs: $437). Orthodontic space closure (procedural costs: $9,295; time costs: $2,187) was found to be more costly than TA with limited orthodontics but less costly than TA with comprehensive orthodontics. TA is a practical tooth replacement option for families, and dental care professionals should consider TA for pediatric patients who require tooth replacement in the maxillary anterior region.
Introduction Growth assessment is a fundamental process in orthodontics as accurate determination of skeletal maturity guides the timing of treatment intervention. Biochemical and radiographic indicators can be used to evaluate growth status during adolescence. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) serves as a reliable biochemical marker of active growth, while the cervical vertebral maturation index (CVMI) provides a radiographic assessment of skeletal maturity. Vitamin D plays a vital role in bone metabolism and skeletal development. It may also influence growth mediators such as IGF-1. This study aims to assess and correlate levels of vitamin D with both IGF-1 and CVMI in 10-14-year-old patients. Method Patients who visited the Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics at Ranjeet Deshmukh Dental College and Research Centre of 10 to 14 years age were included in the study, provided they were not suffering from any systemic or endocrine disorders and had not consumed any vitamin D supplements. According to the established inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 50 subjects were selected for the study. Cervical vertebral maturation stages were assessed on a lateral cephalogram, which is routinely taken for orthodontic treatment. Two milliliters of blood samples were collected under all aseptic conditions with parental consent for assessment of IGF-1 by ELISA (DRG Diagnostics IGF-1 kit in Lisa Plus Elisa microplate reader) and vitamin D level by using ichroma vitamin D neo fluorescence Immunoassay. Results  There was a statistically significant difference in vitamin D levels across CVMI stages (χ² = 14.813, p = 0.005). Mean vitamin D levels increased from Stage 2 (11.97 ± 0.96 ng/ml) to Stage 4 (24.54 ± 4.76 ng/ml), followed by a slight decline in Stage 5 (23.05 ± 4.88 ng/ml) and Stage 6 (19.10 ng/ml). Mean IGF-1 levels showed a consistent increasing trend: Stage 2 (19.57 ± 0.90 µg/dl), Stage 3 (24.77 ± 2.56 µg/dl), Stage 4 (28.78 ± 2.49 µg/dl), Stage 5 (29.25 ± 2.84 µg/dl), and Stage 6 (33.80 µg/dl). This demonstrates a progressive rise in IGF-1 levels with skeletal maturation. Considering the overall sample, there was a weak to moderately positive correlation between vitamin D and IGF-1 levels (ρ = 0.428). Conclusion Levels of vitamin D had significant variations among CVMI stages. IGF-1 showed a consistent increase with advancing stages of CVMI, reflecting its positive association with pubertal growth and skeletal maturation. Correlation analysis revealed a weak to moderately positive correlation between vitamin D and IGF-1 levels. Therefore, IGF-1 is a more reliable indicator of skeletal maturation as compared to vitamin D, while vitamin D may still play a supportive role in growth-related biologic processes and skeletal development.
The risk of endocarditis is caused by Streptococcus viridans, which is found in the mouth and can cause dental issues. Men over 45 are at higher risk of endocarditis, and orthodontic appliances can disrupt mouth bacteria, increasing the risk of endocarditis and oral streptococci. Good oral hygiene and checkups can prevent complications, and patients in orthodontic treatment should be monitored for heart conditions and educated on oral hygiene. A 31-year-old male with known aortic valve disease was admitted for infective endocarditis and was treated with intravenous ceftriaxone. Fixed orthodontic appliances increase the risk of endocarditis and oral Streptococci, but patients can reduce these risks by maintaining oral hygiene and adhering to home oral hygiene routines; regular professional dental cleanings can also help maintain oral health during fixed orthodontics.
Skeletal Class III malocclusion represents a significant challenge in orthodontics due to its impact on facial aesthetics and function, particularly in patients with limited residual growth. Bone-anchored maxillary protraction (BAMP) with miniplates has emerged as an effective alternative to conventional orthopaedic approaches, providing greater skeletal effects with less dentoalveolar compensation. This study reports the clinical management of a patient with limited growth potential and skeletal Class III malocclusion, treated with miniplate-assisted maxillary protraction followed by aligner therapy. A 9-year-8-month-old female patient, presenting with maxillary retrusion and mild mandibular protrusion (SNA=79.2°, SNB=80.8°, ANB=-1.6°, AO-BO=-11.1mm), was treated with four Bollard miniplates and Class III elastics for 9 months. The orthopaedic phase resulted in significant maxillary advancement (SNA increased to 85.1°), improved sagittal relationship (ANB increased to 3.5°), and improved Wits score from -11.1mm to 1.8mm, with minimal changes in mandibular position. Structural overlays demonstrated that the maxillary advancement achieved during the orthopaedic phase was accompanied by vertical mandibular development during the orthodontic phase, thereby favourably redirecting the initial hypodivergent pattern and improving facial balance. Subsequent orthodontic refinement was performed with clear aligners, totalling 130 aligners in multiple refinement stages, leading to Class I relationships in the canines and molars, improved intercuspation, and correction of midline deviation. Although aligner therapy required multiple refinements, satisfactory functional and aesthetic results were obtained without the need for orthognathic surgery in this case. Maxillary protraction assisted by miniplates followed by aligner therapy was effective for the treatment of this case of skeletal Class III malocclusion.
This clinical report describes the interdisciplinary treatment of a patient with hypoplastic amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) and an anterior open occlusal relationship. Prior to referral to the prosthodontics department, she had undergone active orthodontic treatment for 5 years. As she presented with skeletal, functional, and esthetic concerns, orthodontic treatment alone was insufficient to address her complex treatment goals. Given the complexity, optimal comprehensive management necessitated an interdisciplinary approach involving orthodontics, endodontics, periodontal therapy, orthognathic surgery, and definitive rehabilitation with minimum preparation adhesively bonded complete coverage restorations. A 5-year follow-up confirmed the stability of the results, with the patient reporting no further issues.
The present study aims to examine and classify the localization of canine teeth impacted in the maxilla for various reasons, their relationship with adjacent structures, and the developing pathologies by using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). CBCT images taken for various reasons from 175 patients with maxillary impacted canine teeth that met the research criteria were examined. Demographic characteristics of the patients such as age and gender were recorded. The maxillary impacted canine teeth were examined by using CBCT in terms of their locations, relationship with the maxillary sinus, nasal floor and nasopalatine canal (NPC), relationship with adjacent teeth and the associated pathologies. A total of 209 maxillary impacted canine teeth of 175 patients were examined. Of the patients included in the study, 37.3% were male, while 62.7% were female. The mean age was found as 35 (age range 18-70). The rate of unilateral impacted canine teeth was 67.5% and 52.6% of the canine teeth were found to be located on the right side of the maxilla. Canine teeth were palatally impacted in 79% and 89% were found to be in a mesioangular position. The rate of canine teeth associated with the nasal cavity floor was found to be 7%, the rate of canine teeth with roots extending into the maxillary sinus was 6%, and the rate of canine teeth associated with NPC was found to be 15%. When the relationship of maxillary impacted canine teeth with the surrounding anatomical structures was examined, maxillary impacted canine teeth of male were found to have a higher relationship with the nasal cavity floor. The rate of pathologies associated with maxillary impacted canine teeth was found to be 22.5%. The most common pathologies were intracoronal resorption in maxillary canine teeth (8%) and root resorption in lateral incisors (7%). The results of the present study show that maxillary impacted canine teeth can remain for many years without causing pathology. However, it is crucial to evaluate them comprehensively by using CBCT when orthodontic or surgical intervention is planned.
To investigate the effect of beveling side (apical vs occlusal) on the extrusive biomechanics of clear aligners compared to unbeveled attachments when tracking issues occur. An in vitro Orthodontic Force Simulator (OFS) was used to simulate extrusion of a maxillary canine and first molar. Three attachment designs (beveled apical, beveled occlusal, and conventional rectangular) were digitally designed on the target teeth and directly milled in zirconia material. Aligners were thermoformed for each design and target tooth. The tooth-aligner mismatch was created on the target tooth up to 1.0 mm to simulate the tracking issue. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was conducted to simulate the OFS experiment and analyze stress distribution and deformation. The attachment designs yielded significant differences in extrusion forces and bucco-palatal moments on both teeth. Beveled apical attachments consistently produced the lowest forces and moments, especially as displacement increased. This was attributed to a sliding motion of the aligner along the tooth movement path, mitigating the negative effects of tracking errors. Rectangular and beveled occlusal attachments, while offering strong initial engagement, resulted in higher stress concentrations and variability in force delivery as the simulated aligner-tooth mismatch grew. The beveled apical design provides more predictable and consistent extrusion forces, reducing unwanted side effects, particularly for large movements and high risk of tracking issues.
Systemic host factors, such as serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D(25[OH]D), may influence periapical healing after root canal treatment (RCT); however, prospective clinical evidence remains limited. To evaluate whether baseline serum 25(OH)D levels predict periapical healing and 12-month clinical success following a primary RCT. Ninety systemically healthy adults (18-50 years old) requiring primary RCT of single-rooted teeth were enrolled. Participants were categorized as Vitamin D-deficient (<20 ng/mL) or sufficient (≥20 ng/mL). The lesion size, periapical index (PAI), pain (Visual Analog Scale), and clinical success were assessed at 6 and 12 months. This comprised repeated-measures tests, independent group comparisons, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, and multivariable logistic regression adjusted for baseline lesion size, with P < 0.05 indicating significance. Both groups demonstrated significant improvement over time (P < 0.05). At 12 months, the sufficient group demonstrated greater lesion reduction, lower PAI and pain scores, and higher clinical success (93.3% vs. 60.0%; P < 0.001). Vitamin D sufficiency independently predicted success (adjusted odds ratio, 6.62; P = 0.009). ROC analysis identified 20.4 ng/mL as the optimal predictive cutoff. Baseline serum 25(OH)D sufficiency was associated with improved periapical healing and clinical success after primary RCT.
This protocol describes a non-invasive workflow for quantifying salivary RANKL and OPG gene expression in orthodontic patients undergoing intermaxillary elastic traction. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected by passive drooling at three predefined time points: baseline before elastic initiation (T0), 24 h (T1), and 7 days (T2), from 30 female orthodontic patients allocated to Class I fixed appliance-only, Class II elastics, and Class III elastics treatment groups. Salivary pellets obtained by sequential centrifugation and physiological saline washing were subjected to column-based total RNA extraction, spectrophotometric quality control, and first-strand cDNA synthesis. Relative gene expression of RANKL and OPG was quantified by RT-qPCR using β-actin as the internal reference gene. Fold-change expression was calculated relative to individual patient baseline values. Group and temporal comparisons were performed using linear mixed models with Bonferroni-corrected pairwise contrasts. This protocol provides sufficient procedural detail for direct replication in prospective cohort investigations of mechanically induced molecular events in orthodontic treatment.•A complete clinical workflow using non-invasive saliva collection for column-based RNA extraction and RT-qPCR amplification following MIQE guidelines.•Optimised pre-analytical and analytical steps.•A prospective three-group design enables isolation of vector-specific gene expression changes during fixed appliance mechanics.
As part of asynchronous learning resources, podcasts are increasingly used as an adjunct in dental education. This systematic review examines the evidence on educational podcasts in dental education, with emphasis on usage patterns, learner perceptions, and their impact on knowledge-related outcomes. Electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched in September 2025 using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eligible studies enrolled undergraduate dental students, implemented audio podcasts as educational adjuncts, and reported data on knowledge outcomes or podcast usage and learner perceptions. Study quality was appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist. The search identified 693 records, of which six studies met the inclusion criteria. Across cohorts, most reported podcast use and consistently showed high perceived educational utility and acceptability. Between 73% and 97% of respondents in individual studies agreed that podcasts improved learning, aided exam preparation, or were important or very important for theoretical learning. In contrast, ratings for practical or skills-based learning were lower. One quasi-experimental study showed higher immediate multiple-choice test scores in the podcast group. Overall, the risk of bias was judged to be high or unclear in most studies. Within a small, heterogeneous, and methodologically limited evidence base, students reported that educational podcasts appear to be acceptable adjunct resources. Further research using objective outcome measures and extended follow-up is required to delineate the pedagogical role and incremental value of podcasts in dental education.
Oral and craniofacial diseases are common, yet their genetic basis and links to systemic health are incompletely understood. We performed genome-wide association analyses of 67 oral phenotypes in 500,348 FinnGen participants, identifying 102 genome-wide significant loci, including 45 previously unreported associations. 48 loci remained significant after category-level Bonferroni correction. Fine-mapping revealed 14 coding variants, such as a missense variant in USP31 for caries and in MANBA for oral leukoplakia, and a stop-gained variant in GPNMB for temporomandibular disorders. HLA analyses implicated DQA1 and DQB1 alleles in lichen planus and other mucosal disorders. We observed 378 statistically significant genetic correlations among oral traits, such as tooth loss and chronic apical periodontitis (rg = 0.91, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.76, 1.05], P = 1.7 × 10-34), and 419 significant correlations between oral and systemic diseases, including periodontal diseases with chronic laryngitis (rg = 0.97, 95% CI [0.58, 1.36], P = 1.2 × 10-6) and bruxism with gastro-oesophageal reflux (rg = 0.51, 95% CI [0.38, 0.65], P = 1.1 × 10-13). These results expand the catalog of oral disease loci, uncover Finnish-enriched risk alleles, and highlight shared inflammatory, immune, and structural pathways connecting oral and systemic health.
There has been a tremendous leap in resin composite technology over the last two decades. "The rapid pace of product development means that detailed clinical data on individual materials are often limited, even when improved versions are regularly introduced". This clinical investigation examined the effectiveness of a recently created resin composite for back teeth, which is universal supra-nano spherical filled, using revised United States Public Health Service (USPHS) standards. In order to conduct a clinical evaluation and comparison of two resin composites - Omnichroma, a universal supra-nano spherical filled resin composite, and Harmonize, a universal nanohybrid composite resin in Class I posterior restorations over the course of 6 months. A randomized, double-blind, split-mouth clinical trial was conducted in 50 patients, each requiring two Class I occlusal restorations. In each patient, one cavity was restored with a universal supra-nano spherical composite resin (Omnichroma, n = 50) and the other with a universal nanohybrid composite resin (Harmonize, n = 50). A self-etch, light-cured adhesive (Bond Force) was used for all restorations. Using modified USPHS criteria for retention, color match, marginal adaptation, surface texture, anatomic form (wear), postoperative sensitivity, and secondary caries, two calibrated evaluators, who were blinded to the materials, evaluated the restorations at 1 week (baseline), 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Use of Fisher's exact test (α = 0.05) was used for the analysis of categorical data. Frequencies and percentages were calculated, and Fisher's exact test was used for intergroup comparisons at each recall interval. A 100% recall at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months was achieved since all 50 patients were present at every recall session. When it came to clinical performance, both Omnichroma and Harmonize were on par. values of Bravo (clinically acceptable) and Alpha (excellent) were given to the majority of restorations, while no Charlie (failure) values were recorded. For each memory metric, there were no statistically significant differences between the two materials (P > 0.05). Within the 6-month follow-up period, Omnichroma and Harmonize composite resins demonstrated comparable and clinically acceptable performance in Class I posterior restorations.
This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of graphene-based quantum dots (GBQDs) in oral healthcare, focusing on their physicochemical properties tailored to the oral microenvironment, their applications in dental disease management, current research limitations, and future perspectives for clinical translation. systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for publications from the last 15 years up to February 2026. Keywords included "graphene quantum dots", "graphene oxide quantum dots", "dentistry", "oral", "antibacterial", "tissue regeneration", "oral cancer", and "dental materials". Manual searching of reference lists was also performed. From 401 initially identified records, 49 studies underwent full-text review, and 20 representative studies were included based on their relevance to the oral microenvironment and scientific contribution to the field. Studies were categorized into four key areas: antibacterial applications, tissue regeneration, oral cancer therapy, and dental material modification. GBQDs exhibit unique properties such as nanoscale dimensions, tunable fluorescence, high surface area for drug loading, and multimodal antibacterial mechanisms, which make them particularly suitable for the complex oral environment. Current applications span infectious disease management, tissue regeneration, oral cancer theranostics, and dental material enhancement. However, challenges remain in expanding applications beyond current focus, understanding microbial interactions, and achieving vascular and neural regeneration. Future efforts should prioritize disease-specific design, multi-species inhibition strategies, and clinical translation. This scoping review provides clinicians and researchers with a comprehensive understanding of GBQDs' potential in dentistry, highlighting the role in targeted drug delivery, antimicrobial therapy, tissue engineering, and diagnostic imaging, thereby informing future clinical applications and research directions in nanodentistry.
This RCT evaluated and compared the clinical performance of zirconia and titanium dental implants placed in the maxillary premolar region. Outcomes were assessed 3 years after prosthetic loading and included marginal bone level (MBL) changes, clinical parameters, aesthetic outcomes, and patient related outcome measures (PROMs). Fifty patients were randomly allocated to receive either a zirconia one-piece (ZrO2, n = 25) implant or a titanium bone-level (Ti, n = 25) implant, restored with a lithium disilicate crown 3 months after implant placement. Primary outcome was change in MBL. Secondary outcomes included implant survival, peri-implant tissue health, technical complications, aesthetic outcomes, and PROMs. Examinations were performed 3 years after crown placement. After 3 years, mean MBL change was -0.02 mm (SD = 0.78) for ZrO2 and -0.04 mm (SD = 0.36) for Ti; no statistically significant difference was found (p = 0.635). One ZrO2 implant failed to osseointegrate. Clinical parameters were favourable for both implant types, although slightly higher bleeding scores were observed for ZrO2. Differences in aesthetic outcomes and PROMs were found, favoring the ZrO2 implant group. None of these differences reached statistical significance. After 3 years of function, the ZrO2 and Ti implant as applied in this study showed comparable MBL changes. Survival, clinical and aesthetic parameters, and PROMs were generally favourable and largely comparable for both groups. These short-term findings indicate that both implant types represent a viable option for clinical use in this application. CCMO registration: NL58957.042.16.
To determine the prevalence of dental caries and analyze associated factors among children aged 6 to 12 years in Conakry, Guinea. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 869 children in Conakry, Guinea, from July to December 2023. Sociodemographic characteristics of children and their caregivers were evaluated. The DMFT index was used to measure caries prevalence. Explanatory variables included age, sex, education, district of residence, oral hygiene (OHI-S), gingival inflammation, orthodontic anomalies, and brushing habits. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors independently associated with caries prevalence. Among 869 children, 72.8% had dental caries (DMFT > 0) and 27.2% were caries-free. The mean DMFT score was 2.24 ± 1.96. In multivariable analysis, four factors were independently associated with dental caries: age group 10-12 years (aOR=3.44; 95% CI: 2.41-4.90; p < 0.001), poor oral hygiene as assessed by OHI-S (aOR=1.54; 95% CI: 1.10-2.16; p = 0.013), gingival inflammation (aOR=1.85; 95% CI: 1.16-2.96; p = 0.010), and use of non-standard brushing materials (aOR=1.49; 95% CI: 1.00-2.23; p = 0.050). This study found a high prevalence of dental caries among children in urban Conakry, Guinea, driven by behavioral and clinical factors. Age group, poor oral hygiene, and gingival inflammation were identified as the main independent risk factors, with children aged 10-12 years being particularly vulnerable. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted public health interventions, including school-based oral health education and improved access to affordable dental care to address this significant health burden.
A cross-sectional study conducted from April 2016 to April 2018 at the Government Medical College and Hospital in Chandigarh, India, investigated coronal and root caries prevalence and DMFT (Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth) indices among urban, middle-income adults. Overall, 601 individuals examined, aged 21-50 years, divided into three age groups: 21-30 (G1, n = 200), 31-40 (G2, n = 201), and 41-50 (G3, n = 200). Using WHO Oral Health Assessment criteria, a calibrated examiner assessed caries; data graphically analysed and with Kruskal-Wallis tests with pairwise tests (3 age group comparisons), independent samples Kruskal-Wallis test (male/female comparison), and Spearman's correlations. The overall mean DMFT score was 6.52 (95% CI, 6.16-6.88), rising from 5.12 in G1 to 8.12 in G3 (P < 0.01). DMFT component scores were D = 4.02, M = 1.73, and F = 0.77. Age-related increase in decayed teeth prevalence (86% in G1, 86.5% in G2, 89.5% in G3), missing teeth (36%, 54.5%, 73.5%), and filled teeth (25%, 35.5%, 35.5%) was observed. Root caries prevalence was low (3%-4.5%), with no significant age-related differences (P > 0.05). Females had significantly higher mean rank for DMFT, decayed, missing, and filled teeth scores than males (P < 0.05), but no gender differences were found for root caries (p = 0.195). Age weakly correlated with DMFT (r = 0.262, P < 0.001) and filled teeth (r = 0.093, P = 0.023), but not with decayed teeth or root caries. The study highlights the need for early preventive interventions, especially for younger adults and females, to curb caries progression, though weak correlations limit clinical significance.
Orthodontic pain remains a significant barrier to patient compliance, affecting up to 95% of individuals. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the multifactorial nature of this pain, encompassing demographic, systemic, intraoral, and treatment-related variables. Furthermore, the paper critically evaluates a spectrum of management strategies beyond traditional pharmacotherapy, assessing their clinical efficacy and quality of evidence. Based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework, non-pharmacological alternatives show varying levels of support: low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and chewing therapy are backed by moderate-certainty evidence, whereas vibration and emerging psychological interventions currently rely on low-certainty evidence. By identifying key research gaps in optimizing these modern therapies, the review emphasizes the urgent need for larger, highly standardized clinical trials to develop personalized, evidence-based pain management protocols and improve the patient experience.
To elucidate the pattern and extent of long-term condylar adaptation within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) following mandibular setback by bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) in patients with mandibular prognathism, with particular attention to subtle three-dimensional changes over time. 46 temporomandibular joints from 23 eligible patients (17 females, six males; mean age 22.7 ± 5.0 years) who underwent BSSO, with or without Le Fort I osteotomy, were analyzed. Computed tomography (CT) scans were obtained at three time points: preoperatively (T0), within 1 week postoperatively (T1), and at a 2-year follow-up (T2). Quantitative assessments of condylar position, inclination, linear dimensions, joint spaces, and volumetric joint space were performed using a standardized three-dimensional measurement protocol, and reconstructed imaging data were statistically compared across the three time intervals. A statistically significant change in the right anterior joint space (AJS) was observed between T0 and T1 (p = 0.046), increasing from 1.55 ± 0.43 mm to 1.95 ± 0.65 mm. In contrast, no statistically significant changes were identified in the posterior, superior, or medial joint spaces on either side at any time point. Similarly, condylar inclination, position, and linear dimensions did not differ significantly between T0, T1, and T2 (p > 0.05). Volumetric joint space measurements remained stable throughout the observation period, with no statistically significant variation. This comprehensive three-dimensional evaluation indicates that mandibular setback via BSSO does not induce short- or long-term condylar morphological alterations.