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The aim of the present study was to assess by using a questionnaire, the knowledge and understanding level of dental postoperative sensitivity through dental practitioners. A number of 431 dental practitioners coming from rural or urban practices, in private or public environment, with a bachelor’s degree or with postgraduate studies received this specifically developed questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of a series of socio-demographic questions, followed by 14 questions related to postoperative sensitivity. The questionnaire contained 7 single-choice and 7 multiple-choice questions. For the statistical analysis of the obtained results Pearson Chi-square and Independent sample t-test were used. For all 14 questions, the correct answers were indicated by the majority of respondents, regardless of the training level or the environment of origin. Both postgraduate and bachelor’s degree dental practitioners had a similar level of knowledge regarding the etiology, symptomatology and therapeutic management of postoperative dental sensitivity. The knowledge level about dental postoperative sensitivity does not differ between dental practitioners in the public and private sectors.

Background: This study aimed to compare the accuracy of linear measurements obtained using the classical (manual) method versus cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in craniofacial anthropometry, specifically targeting the infraorbital foramen (IOF). Methods: This study involved two sample groups: one of 40 dry skulls measured manually using digital calipers, and the other of 40 CBCT 3D images digitally measured. Measurements included IOF height, distances between the IOF and nasion (N), IOF and frontomalar orbital (FMO), and between the two IOFs. Statistical analysis was performed using an ANOVA, t-test, and Fisher's test with a significance level of 0.05. Results: The manual method recorded a mean IOF height of 2.1 mm, while CBCT showed a mean of 3.52 mm. Significant differences were recorded between the two methods when measuring IOF height, with a p < 0.001. However, CBCT measurements generally yielded higher accuracy and lower variance due to the absence of significant differences (p > 0.05). The distance between the two IOFs measured by both methods differed significantly (p = 0.03157), with CBCT measurements showing higher values. Conclusions: In conclusion, although no significant differences were found in the overall accuracy of the two methods, CBCT proved to be a more reliable tool for detailed craniofacial measurements due to its higher accuracy and reproducibility. CBCT demonstrated superior consistency in measurements, offering enhanced precision in assessing craniofacial structures. These findings support the growing preference for CBCT in maxillofacial surgery, where precision is critical for successful outcomes. Nonetheless, manual techniques remain valuable in settings where advanced imaging is not accessible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the pathological factors and anatomical variations in the maxillary sinus in patients undergoing dental implant treatment using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). CBCT, as a key imaging technique in dentistry, offers high-resolution images to assess bone morphology and quality, crucial for preoperative dental implant planning. Material and methods: The study included a cohort of 200 patients recommended for CBCT as part of their preoperative evaluation. The methodology involved detailed CBCT image analysis to identify and document various anatomical variations due to pneumatization, exostosis, hypoplasia, polyps, cysts, foreign bodies, and anthroliths within the maxillary sinus. Results: Pneumatization was the most common variation, present in 77.5% of subjects. Polypoid lesions were found in 17.5% of patients, with a higher prevalence in younger age groups (57.1% in ages 20–35). Cysts and polyps affected 17.5% of subjects, predominantly males (65.7%). Anthroliths were observed in a minimal percentage (2%), and foreign bodies were found in 1.5% of the patients. Positive correlations were observed between the patient's age and both mucosal thickness and polypoid lesions and between the patient's gender and bone thickening (p-values < 0.05). Conclusions: The study concluded that CBCT is essential in the preoperative assessment of the maxillary sinus in dental implant candidates due to its superior imaging capabilities, allowing for the identification of critical anatomical variations and pathologies. This thorough evaluation is imperative to ensure the success of implant placement and to mitigate potential complications. However, further research with larger, more diverse populations is recommended to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the quality of marginal sealing at the cervical margins of indirect and direct composite resin restorations in mesio-occluso-distal (MOD) cavities. Material and method: MOD preparations were performed on 30 extracted teeth. The mesial cervical margin of each tooth was relocated using a flow composite resin (Enamel Plus HRi Flow, Micerium, Avegno, GE, Italy), then the samples were divided into three groups. In group A, the cavities were directly restored using a nanohybrid composite resin (Miris 2 Coltène Whaledent, Altstaetten, Switzerland) and a universal adhesive (ScotchBond Universal, 3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA) by the etch-and-rinse strategy, for group B, the restoration procedure was similar but the self-etch strategy was used, and the samples in group C were filled using the inlay technique. Each sample was stored for 48 h in a 2% methylene blue solution, then it was cut in a mesio-distal direction using a Struers Secotom 50 device (Cleveland, OH, USA). The marginal sealing and adhesive interface were assessed for each sample at the cervical margin by optical microscopy (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). One-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests were used with a significance level of 0.05. Results: Significant differences were recorded within groups A and C, between mesial and distal margins (p = 0.02 in group A and p = 0.043 in group C). Conclusions: The marginal sealing is more effective in MOD inlay restoration compared to direct restorations. Relocation of the cervical margin with flow composite resin and the use of different adhesive strategies do not improve the marginal sealing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the effects of pretreating dentin with a 2% chlorhexidine solution and subjecting it to cariogenic attack on the marginal adaptation of glass ionomer cement (GIC) to dentin walls. The study found that pretreatment with chlorhexidine did not significantly affect the marginal adaptation of GIC to dentin, but cariogenic attack did have a negative impact on the interface between the material and dentin. The study emphasizes the need for further validation through in vitro and in vivo studies and provides insights for the use of GIC. [Extracted from the article]

There are two main methods used for dentin hypersensitivity (DH) treatment: dentinal tubule occlusion and blockage of nerve activity. Dentifrices are the most common vehicles for active ingredients used for DH treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of three toothpastes on dentinal tubule occlusion, mineral acquisition, and dentin hardness. Forty human dentin disks were submerged in 40% citric acid for 30 s and then exposed to tooth brushing for 2 min twice a day for 14 days using three toothpastes: Dontodent Sensitive (group 1), Dr. Wolff's Biorepair (group 2), and Sensodyne Repair and Protect (group 3). In the control group (group 4), the samples were brushed with water. All of the samples were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), and Vickers dentin hardness determination. On SEM images, the degree of dentinal tubule occlusion was assessed using a five-grade scale. The mean score values in groups 1–4 were 3.60 ± 0.69, 2.20 ± 0.91, 2.30 ± 1.16, and 5.00 ± 0.00, significantly higher in study groups when compared to the control group (Kruskal Wallis test p < 0.05). EDX evaluation showed significantly higher calcium and phosphorus concentrations in groups 1 and 3 when compared to control group d. The mean values of Vickers dentin hardness numbers in groups 1–4 were 243.03 ± 10.014, 327.38 ± 56.65, 260.29 ± 37.69, and 225.83 ± 29.93, respectively. No statistically significant results were obtained when comparing the hardness mean values in groups (Kruskal-Wallis statistical test, p = 0.372 > 0.05). All three toothpastes tested demonstrated significant occlusion of dentinal tubules. Dontodent Sensitive and Sensodyne Repair and Protect toothpastes enhanced the calcium and phosphorus content of the dentin surface. None of the toothpastes increased dentin hardness as a result of mineral acquisition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity and surface hardness of a light-activated microhybrid composite resin modified with green silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). AgNPs were synthesized using an Equisetum sylvaticum extract and characterized through different methods such as UV-Vis, EDX, and FTIR. The obtained AgNPs were mixed with a microhybrid composite resin (Herculite XRV, Kerr Corp., Orange, CA, USA) in different concentrations: 0% (group A-control); 0.5% (group B); 1% (group C); and 1.5% (group D). A total of 120 composite resin disk-shaped samples were obtained and divided into 4 groups (n = 30) according to AgNP concentration. Each group was then divided into 2 subgroups: subgroup 1—samples were not soaked in 0.01 M NaOH solution; and subgroup 2—samples were soaked in 0.01 M NaOH solution. The antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans was determined using a direct contact test. A digital electronic hardness tester was used to determine the composite resin's Vickers surface hardness (VH). Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis nonparametric tests with a confidence level of 95%. Groups C and D showed higher antibacterial activity against S. mutans when compared to the control group (p < 0.05). No significant differences were recorded between VH values (p > 0.05). The use of AgNPs synthesized from Equisetum sylvaticum as a composite resin filler in 1% wt. and 1.5% wt. reduced the activity of Streptococcus mutans. Soaking of the experimental composite resin decreased the antibacterial efficacy. The loading of a microhybrid composite resin with AgNPs in concentrations of 0.5% wt., 1% wt., and 1.5% wt. did not influence the surface hardness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of the study was to assess the protective effect of applying potassium iodide (KI) over silver diamine fluoride (SDF) on demineralized root dentin in the case of a sustained acidogenic attack. Methods: Forty caries-free third molars were used in the study. A diamond disc was used to separate the roots and the tooth crowns from the roots. Each root fragment was randomly distributed in one of the four study groups: C—samples were not demineralized; DD—demineralized samples; RS1—demineralized samples covered with SDF+KI (RS-Riva Star product, SDI limited, Bayswater, Australia); RS2—demineralized samples covered with SDF+KI and submersed to another acidic challenge for 3 days. SEM and EDX were used for the morphological and elemental analysis. Vickers hardness assessment was performed using a tribometer CETR UMT-2 (Bruker Corporation, Berlin, Germany). One-way ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni tests were used for the statistical analysis with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Morphological and elemental changes were observed on the surface of the study samples. Significant differences were observed between the recorded hardness values of groups C and DD (p = 0.005), C and RS2 (p = 0.002), DD and RS1 (p = 0.011); RS1 and RS2 (p = 0.004). Conclusions: The application of SDF and KI (Riva Star product) on root dentin caries resulted in the formation of a heterogeneous outer layer that sealed the dentin and increased the microhardness of the treated surface. In the conditions of the present study, this layer did not provide enough protection for root dentin exposed to continuous attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the combined effect of a 2% chlorhexidine aqueous solution and a universal adhesive system applied in self-etch and etch-and-rinse strategies on the composite resin–dentin interface. Materials and Methods: Class V cavities were prepared on the facial and lingual surfaces of forty caries-free molars extracted for orthodontic reasons. The samples were randomly divided into two groups corresponding to the used etching protocol: I—etch-and-rinse; II—self-etch. In each tooth, one cavity was assigned for the control subgroups -IA (n = 20) and IIA (n = 20)—adhesive only, and the opposite cavity was pretreated with a 2% chlorhexidine solution—Gluco CHeX Cerkamed—subgroups IB (n = 20) and IIB (n = 20). Both sets of groups were restored using a universal adhesive system (Single Bond Universal Adhesive, 3M-ESPE) and a bulk-fill composite resin (Filtek One Bulk Fill Restorative, 3M-ESPE). The roots and the pulp tissue were then removed, and a needle connected to a perfusor with 100 mL saline solution was used for pulp pressure simulation with a hydrostatic pressure of 20 cm H2O. Cariogenic attack was simulated using a demineralizing solution for 3 days at a constant temperature of 25 °C. The teeth were then sectioned in a facial-lingual direction and the microleakages at the occlusal and cervical margins were registered and scored using an optical Carl-Zeiss AXIO Imager A1m microscope (Carl-Zeiss). The composite resin–dentin interface was analyzed using a SEM Vega Tescan LMH II. Statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal–Wallis test with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Microleakage evaluation showed no significant differences among the study groups (p > 0.05). In subgroup IA, significant differences were recorded between occlusal and cervical margins (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Application of chlorhexidine on tooth substrate before using a universal bonding system in total etch or self-etch mode has no influence on the adhesive interface in the condition of cariogenic attack. The thickness of the adhesive resin layer seems to be less uniform when using chlorhexidine, but the morphological differences at the adhesive interface have no influence on the sealing capacity of the universal bonding system, regardless of the etching strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of gastric acid associated with the effect of toothbrushing on the surface roughness of different types of composite resin used for direct restorations. Materials and Methods: The materials used in this study were two microhybrid (Filtek Z250, Herculite XRV) and two nanohybrid (Filtek Z550, Herculite XRV Ultra) composite resins. Two hundred and forty cylindrical samples with a height of 2 mm and a diameter of 6 mm were divided into four groups (groups A, B, C and D) corresponding to each tested material (n = 60). Each group was divided in two subgroups: subgroup I—the samples were submersed in hydrochloric acid and immediately submitted to toothbrushing; subgroup II—the samples were submitted only to toothbrushing. The simulation of the acid attack was performed by immersing the samples in a 0.01 M hydrochloric acid solution for 90 min. This procedure was followed immediately by toothbrushing simulation with 10,000 cycles. The acid attack and toothbrushing simulation were performed for two times. The surface roughness evaluation was performed with a Proscan 2100 profilometer. Repeated Measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests were used to perform the statistical analysis. Results: Simulation of one year of toothbrushing associated or not to hydrochloric acid exposure increases the surface roughness of microhybrid and nanohybrid composite resins. Six months of toothbrushing associated to six months of hydrochloric acid exposure increase the surface roughness of nanohybrid composite resins. Conclusions: Microhybrid composite resins surface becomes rougher after toothbrush and acid submersion when comparing to nanohybrid composite resins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of simulated gastric acid associated with toothbrushing on the surface condition of three resin-modified glass-ionomer cements (RMGIC). Materials and Methods: One hundred and sixty samples of each material were obtained and included in three study groups according to the tested material: Group I (Ionolux, VOCO GmbH, Cuxhaven, Germany); Group II (Vitremer, 3 M-ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA); and Group III (Fuji II LC, GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan). The samples were submersed in hydrochloric acid 0.01 M (pH 3.8) for 3 h and exposed to a toothbrushing procedure at a frequency of 10,000 cycles with medium and hard bristles immediately or 30 min after the acid attack. Profilometric measurements were performed by using a non-contact profilometer (Dektak XT, Bruker, Billerica, MA, USA) in order to assess the surface roughness. ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests were used for the statistical analysis at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Exposure of RMGICs to the erosive effect of hydrochloric acid in association with toothbrushing 30 min after the chemical attack increased the surface roughness of all three RMGICs. Exposure of the three tested materials exclusively to the action of hydrochloric acid did not affect the surface roughness. Conclusions: One year of hydrochloric acid challenge associated with one year of toothbrushing with medium-hardness bristles performed 30 min after the acid attack increase the surface roughness of two of the three types of RMGIC tested (Ionolux and Fuji II LC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to assess by atomic force microscopy (AFM) the surface roughness of a traditional glass ionomer cement- GIC (Fuji IX GP, GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) and a resin modified glass ionomer cement- RMGIC (Vitremer, 3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA) after different immersion regimes on some acidic drinks. Sixteen cylindrical samples having the height of 5 mm and the thickness of 2 mm were obtained from each material and they were divided into two groups: Group I (Fuji IX samples) and Group II (Vitremer samples). Specimens of each group were then randomly divided into 4 subgroups: subgroup A (control)—15 samples were kept in artificial saliva and in the other three subgroups, each having 15 samples the samples were immersed in Coca-Cola (subgroup B), Cappy lemonade and mint (subgroup C) and Fuzetea (subgroup D) for 7 days (subgroups A1–D1), 14 days (subgroups A2–D2), and 21 days (subgroups A3–D3). AFM qualitative and quantitative surface evaluation (mean value of surface roughness parameter, Sa) of each sample was performed. The highest surface roughness was determined when both materials were submerged 14 days in acidic drinks. Traditional GIC was more affected by acidic environment when comparing to RMGIC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This in vitro study aimed to assess the erosive effect of hydrochloric acid in association with toothbrushing procedure on the surface condition of three bulk-fill composite resins used for direct restoration. A total of 480 samples (160 from each composite resin): X-tra Fil (VOCO, Germany)—group A, Filtek Bulk-fill Posterior (3M-ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA)—group B, G-aenial Posterior (GC Japan)—group C were prepared, submitted to chemical attack for 60 min with hydrochloric acid 30% and, subsequently, submitted to the abrasive effect of toothbrushing using 10,000 cycles with medium and hard bristles, at three different times (immediately and after 30 min after acid attack or without any chemical attack). The surface roughness of the samples was measured using a noncontact profilometer (Dektak XT, Bruker, Billerica, MA, USA). The values were analyzed using ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni tests, with a p < 0.05. Chemical attack for 60 min associated with one year of toothbrushing with toothbrushes having medium or hard bristles increase the surface roughness of tested bulk-fill composite resins. No differences were recorded between toothbrushing with medium or firm bristles immediately or 30 min after acidic challenge for each of the three bulk-fill composite resins. Exposure to hydrochloric acid determines no effect on surface roughness of bulk-fill composite resins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic situation forced governments to impose various measures to reduce the spread of the virus. The most used method is to wear facial masks, which can be found under several commercial forms. Wearing facial masks has caused a lot of controversy and rumors. Among them, many patients and practitioners have complained of a dry mouth after wearing different types of facial masks for a variable period of time. The aim of this study was to analyze the quantitative (un-/stimulated salivary flow rate) and qualitative (pH and buffer capacity) changes in saliva in mask wearers. Methodology Forty subjects were selected for this study. All of them wore alternatively no mask, a surgical mask for 2 hours, and FFP2 mask for 2 hours (groups 1, 2, and 3). Saliva samples were collected from all the subjects in the groups and analyzed to determine the values of un-/stimulated salivary flow rate, the pH, and buffer capacity using GC Saliva-Check Buffer (GC Corporation, Japan). Descriptive and analytical statistics were performed using ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc test. Results For unstimulated saliva samples, between groups 1 and 3, statistically significant differences were recorded, with a significance level of 0,02

The present study aimed at assessing the surface roughness of a nanohybrid composite after finishing and polishing, and at evaluating the roughness variation of the material after submitting it to the action of hydrochloric acid and toothbrushing. The material used in the study was Filtek Z550 (3M ESPE). 15 cylindrical samples were randomly divided into three groups, corresponding to three different systems (SofLex, Optrafine, Astropol). The samples were subjected to hydrochloric acid in two one-hour cycles, then immediately submitted to toothbrushing in three consecutive cycles (1,000, 2,000, 4,000 cycles). The results showed variations in surface condition after each step. The surface condition of restorations is related to the type of finishing system. Hydrochloric acid influences the surface roughness of a composite resin restoration, changing its values, even at limited exposure. The effect of brushing after acidic challenge increases the surface roughness of the composite resin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of hydrochloric acid associated with the abrasive effect of toothbrushing on the surface condition of three flowable composite resins used for direct restoration. Seventy samples of each composite resin: Grandio Flow (VOCO, Germany)—group A, Filtek Ultimate Flow (3M-ESPE, MN, USA)—group B, G-aenial Flo X (GC Europe)—group C were prepared, submersed in hydrochloric acid 30% for 60 min and then submitted to simulated toothbrushing procedure using 5000 cycles with toothbrushes with medium and hard bristles, immediately after the chemical attack, after 30 min or without any chemical attack. The sample's surface roughness was analyzed using a noncontact profilometer (Dektak XT, Bruker, USA). ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni tests, with a p < 0.05, were used to analyze the values. Hydrochloric acid action for 60 min and six months of toothbrushing using toothbrushes having medium hardness or firm bristles affects the surface roughness of tested flowable composite resins. Toothbrushing with firm bristles immediately after acidic challenge determines increased surface roughness for two of the three flowable composite resins (Grandio Flow and Filtek Ultimate Flow). Toothbrushing with medium or firm bristles thirty minutes after the acidic aggression determine no effect on surface condition of flowable composite resins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]