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Abstract Background A manual toothbrush is an indispensable tool for promoting and maintaining oral health worldwide but given the non-biodegradable and non-recyclable thermoplastic materials from which it is made, it cannot be considered free of threats to the environment. Therefore, also in light of the World Dental Federation's goals to implement and initiate policies for sustainable dentistry, this study evaluates the sustainability of two materials most used for manual toothbrush bristles, namely nylon, and silicone. Objectives The objective is to investigate the optimal solution to reduce the environmental impact of toothbrushes, and how the environmental impact would change if only the brush head was changed instead of the entire toothbrush. Methods Life Cycle Assessment and Carbon Footprint were used. Four manual toothbrushes with nylon bristles, and a handle in polypropylene with/without silicone parts (N1, N2, N3, N4) and two manual toothbrushes, with silicone bristles, but one with polypropylene handle only (Si1), the other with polypropylene handle and silicone parts (Si2) were evaluated. Results A toothbrush with silicone bristles is more sustainable than one with nylon bristles in all 18 impact categories, with average values of − 14%. In addition, eliminating only the brush head instead of the entire toothbrush could result in savings of 4.69 × 10‒3 kg CO2 eq per toothbrush. Therefore, based on the results of this study and to meet Dentistry's need to reduce its environmental impact, the ideal toothbrush should be lightweight, with less superfluous material, and with less impactful materials such as silicone instead of nylon. Conclusions The concluding indications for improving the sustainability of toothbrushes are therefore: (i) eliminate the amount of superfluous material; (ii) develop lighter models; and (iii) develop models in which only the brush head is replaced rather than the entire toothbrush.

Abstract Blended Intensive Programmes (BIP’s) represent a valuable tool for gathering knowledge and summarising the latest trends in medicine and dentistry. Blended education has been found, even before the COVID-19 pandemic, to increase the level of education and stimulate effective learning for postgraduate healthcare professionals. Interprofessional education is critical for preparing students to enter the health workforce, where teamwork and collaboration are important competencies. This article outlines the key points of the Blended Intensive Programme’s implementation in dental education organised by Wroclaw Medical University in Poland. BIP involved professors from 12 universities or research institutions from Europe and South America and 28 participants from 8 countries. The course was taught remotely and in person. In addition, it included a visit to the university and practical classes with artificial simulation and practice in dentistry. A structured questionnaire enabled measuring the evaluation of students’ perception of the COVID-19 education before and after the pandemic. The European Region Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students (ERASMUS) was fundamental to carrying out the BIP with the participation of several countries, allowing the exchange of knowledge, assessing the impact of the pandemic on dental universities, and strengthening international collaborations and the future project of research, education and clinical assistance. We conclude that hybrid teaching programmes broaden the learning spectrum in dental studies by allowing transnational and interdisciplinary approaches that make students aware of the importance of their work within the framework of the general health approach, as this differs from country to country.

Abstract Background Patients experiencing any malocclusion, may desire for treatment. However, there is no scientific information orthodontic treatment demand and the knowledge of young adults about orthodontic treatment. The aim of the study was to assess orthodontic treatment demand in young adults from Poland and Chile, their previous orthodontic experience and their knowledge on fixed and aligner orthodontic treatment. Methods The target group comprised people aged 18–30. The sample size was estimated as above 400 for each country. The survey was carried out in Polish and Spanish within 3 months and consisted of 25 questions delivered via social media. Comparisons were made between countries, age subgroups and gender. Results The response rate was 1,99%, what stands for 1092 responses, 670 from Chile and 422 from Poland, respectively. The percentage of young adults who were already treated was 42,9% in Poland and 25,0% in Chile. The ones planning to have orthodontic treatment within a year counted for 11,8% in Poland and 5,3% in Chile. Most young adults who want to be treated (20,6%) rely on doctor’s recommendation on type of appliance while 14,7% of all respondents are interested solely in aligners. Most respondents have heard about aligners (58%). Direct provider-to-customer service without a doctor is not acceptable, neither in Poland (85,1%) nor in Chile (64,8%). Most young adults provided incorrect answers referring various aspects of aligner treatment. Conclusions In both countries, patients demand to be treated and monitored by the orthodontist. A high percentage of patients want to be treated exclusively with aligners. Direct-to-consumer orthodontics does not seem attractive to patients. Young adults do not have adequate knowledge referring to aligner treatment. Many people want to be treated despite a previous orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic miniscrews (MSs) are used for enhancing orthodontic anchorage either by supporting the teeth of the reactive unit or by obviating the need for the reactive unit altogether. Despite MSs’ popularity, their clinical application is not lacking in complications. The limited space of the insertion site (inter-radicular space), temporary use (limiting osseointegration) and the necessity to minimize the biological cost of insertion (bone incision) required the size of this auxiliary to be reduced, making it susceptible to mechanical failure. This review aimed to investigate factors influencing MS plastic deformation and fracture. The search applied five engines: PubMed, PMC, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Ebsco. Quality assessment was performed according to the QUIN tool. After a thorough search process, 22 articles were included in this review. The most important factor influencing miniscrews’ plastic deformation and fracture was the screw diameter. The MS length and metal alloy did not influence its plastic deformation or fracture. The cylindrical design of the screw is preferable. If the cortical bone thickness in the insertion site exceeds 3 mm, pre-drilling upon insertion is recommended. Orthodontic MSs should not be reused. There is a need for high-quality clinical studies on the subject of MS deformation and fracture. The PROSPERO number is CRD42024509895.

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has spread very rapidly around the world. Various regional and national lockdowns were imposed to control the spread. Meanwhile, vaccine development and population vaccination were the next steps for pandemic control. Workers in the dental field, both dentists and dental assistants, however, were close to the sources of aerosol generated during dental procedures and thus were the group of workers the most exposed to COVID-19 infection. The aim of our study was to monitor the immune response before and after the vaccine in a high-risk population, composed by dental professionals. Methods A clinical prospective study was carried out among dental professionals at the Academic Dental Polyclinic, Wroclaw Medical University (Wrocław, Lower Silesia region, Poland). Blood samples were collected at an interval of one year – March/April 2020, before the vaccination against COVID-19, and April 2021, after the vaccination. The analysis was performed on serum with four different methods: qualitative, semi-quantitative, and quantitative IgG count for SARS-CoV-2, and SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies. Results A total of 42 healthy adult volunteers participated in the study. The results showed a statistically significant difference (p

Background: The oral health-promoting effects of green tea are attributed to its polyphenol components. Aim of this work was to systematically review the literature in search for clinical trials assessing green tea for managing periodontitis and caries. Methods: Randomized clinical trials comparing the efficacy of green tea versus control groups in oral hygiene and gingival health; periodontitis; caries; periodontal pathogens number; Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus spp. Meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis were performed.Literature searches were carried out using MedLine (PubMed), Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Eighteen studies (870 subjects) were included. Results: Green tea treatment had medium positive effect size in reducing GI (SMD: 0.50; 95%CI: −0.02/1.01); PI (SMD: 0.54; 95%CI: 0.14/0.95); GBI (SMD: 0.58; 95%CI: −0.41/1.56) and BOP (SMD: 0.52; 95%CI: −0.57/1.60) in respect to the control group. Splitting to subgroups, green tea showed a small negative effect in the chlorhexidine control groups. Green tea treatment had medium positive effect size in reducing CAL (SMD 0.58; 95%CI: −0.49/1.65) and large positive effect size in reducing PPD (SMD:1.02; 95%CI: 0.45/1.59). Conclusion: Even if the results are encouraging, there is insufficient evidence to recommend the use of green tea formulation as first choice treatment for gingivitis, periodontitis and caries.

One of the most discussed topics in toothbrush design is identifying the contact force exerted by the bristles on the teeth. Each bristle must generate a contact force to ensure tooth cleaning without damaging it. Numerical simulation is a very powerful tool for understanding the influence of design parameters (bristle shape and materials). This paper proposes a flexible multibody model to efficiently simulate the 3D compliance of a toothbrush. Each bristle is modeled using a discrete, flexible approach. The contact between the bristles and the target surface is established using the penalty contact method. An experimental test bench with a Universal Robot and a flat, transparent surface is set up. Validation is provided by comparing the reaction forces of the toothbrush with the reaction forces acquired by the load cells mounted on the end effector of the Robot. The results demonstrate the accuracy of estimating normal and tangential forces in various operating situations. The discrete flexible multibody technique has also demonstrated its viability in evaluating the displacement of the bristles when the toothbrush’s base body is put through a specified motion, even when it is exposed to a sudden change in direction. As a result, the model can be effectively utilized to assess how well various brush classes remove dental plaque. Therefore, the suggested model could provide guidance for holistic modeling and advancements in toothbrush design to boost their effectiveness for thorough cleaning.

(1) Background: Molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a clinical condition affecting permanent teeth in children, with a documented rising trend in the last two decades. The aim of the present study was to analyze and synthesize the available evidence on caries experience (dmft/DMFT) and MIH in children. (2) Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to the PRISMA statement. (3) Results: 59 papers published between 2007 and 2022 were included in the qualitative synthesis and 18 in the meta-analysis. The total sample of subjects was 17,717 (mean: 896), of which 2378 (13.4%) had MIH (mean: 119), with a girl/boy ratio of 1:1. The mean age of the enrolled participants was 8.6 (age range 7–10 years). Meta-analysis showed that MIH has a positive correlation with both dmft (effect size of 0.67, 95% CI [0.15, 1.19]) and DMFT (effect size of 0.56, 95% CI [0.41, 0.72]); (4) Conclusions: Children with MIH should be diagnosed correctly and on time. Treatment and management options for moderate and severe forms of MIH should consider prognosis based on known risk factors, and secondary and tertiary prevention policies should also consider the multifactorial nature of caries etiology.

Abstract Background Orthodontic retention aims to maintain optimal teeth positions after active treatment. The stability is affected by numerous factors, including patients’ individual features, thus retention should be adjusted in the most optimal way. Bonding a retainer makes retention less dependent on patient’s compliance. Questions arise What wire or fiber splint type provides the best treatment stability? What materials should be used to bond the wire or fiber splint? Should be the bonding procedure be direct or indirect? The aim of the study is to assess and synthesize available controlled trials investigating failures of fixed retainers. Methods Literature searches of free text and MeSH terms were performed in Scopus, Web of Science, Embase and PubMed Central in order to find studies, referring to failures of fixed retention (12th February 2021). The keywords were: (“orthodontic retainers AND failure AND wire”). The framework of this systematic review according to PICO was: Population: orthodontic patients; Intervention: fixed orthodontic retainer bonding; Comparison: Different protocols of fixed orthodontic retention applied; Outcomes: failure rate, survival rate. Three different specific scales from the Cochrane Collaboration Handbook were used, according to each study type. Additionally, a meta-analysis was conducted to compare the effectiveness of retention using fiber reinforced composite and multistranded steel wire. Results The search identified 177 potential articles: 114 from PubMed, 41 from Scopus, 20 from Web of Science and 2 from Embase. After excluding studies inconsistent with selection criteria, 21 studies were included and subjected to qualitative analysis. The main outcome investigated was failure rate. This systematic review has some potential limitations due to the heterogeneity of design between included studies. Conclusions No retainer is proved to guarantee a perfect stability of dental alignment. The retainer should be bonded to all adherent teeth, preferably with additional use of bonding resin. No wire or fiber splint present superior characteristics concerning failure rate. Fiber reinforced composite retention is more sensitive to operator skills, and with imperfect bonding technique, failure rate is much higher. During the first 6 months after bonding retainer the patient should be under frequent control. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO database with the number CRD42021233406.

Abstract Background Lactoferrin is an iron – binding glycoprotein with anti-inflammatory and anabolic properties found in many internal fluids. It is worth looking at novel studies, because of their methodology and observations that may once be applicable in modern implantology. The aim of the study is to answer the question if lactoferrin is a promising factor for bone regenerative process in oral surgery. Method An electronic search was conducted on 14th October 2019 on the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases. The keywords used in the search strategy were: lactoferrin AND bone regeneration AND oral surgery. The qualitative evaluation was conducted using the Jadad and Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Form. Then a metanalysis of a new bone growth and percentage of the resorbed graft were performed with the metaregression of lactoferrin dose to its outcome effects on bone regeneration. Results The search strategy identified potential articles: 133 from PubMed, 2 from Scopus, 4 from Web of science. After removal of duplicates, 136 articles were analyzed. Subsequently, 131 papers were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. The remaining 5 papers were included in the qualitative synthesis. The use of lactoferrin clearly increases the growth of a newly formed bone (2.58, CI:[0.79, 4.37]), as well as shortens the time of the graft resorption (− 1.70, Cl:[3.43, 0.03]) and replaces it with a species-specific bone. Heterogeneity is significant at p

Compound odontoma is a malformation typical of young adults below the age of 20, with a slight preference for the male gender and the anterior region of the maxilla. Clinically asymptomatic, it can be detected during a radiological investigation in connection with the persistence of deciduous dental elements and the impaction of definitive ones. The treatment of choice is excisional surgery and recurrence is a rare event. The need for orthodontic therapy for impacted elements is usually not necessary because in most cases, odontomas are small, circumscribed lesions the size of a permanent tooth. In this article, the diagnostic and therapeutic surgical excision procedure is presented in three patients at developmental age with large compound odontomas associated with at least one retained canine, and in two of the cases, with serious transmigration to the impacted tooth elements.

This case report describes the orthodontic treatment of a 9-year-old girl who presented with multiple agenesis, maxillary contraction, and skeletal Class III malocclusion after the surgical removal of a melanocytic neuroectodermal tumour of infancy (MNTI) or the so-called melanocytic progonoma at 40 days of age. The lack of dental anchorage in the posterior segment of the second quadrant and the search for maximum control during suture expansion to reduce dental effects led to the use of a hybrid rapid palatal expander (RPE) with dental anchorage in the first quadrant and skeletal anchorage on the two miniscrews placed in the second quadrant, to allow a more even distribution of expansion forces. The expansion procedures performed with the hybrid anchorage device and extraoral traction demonstrate the possibility of solving the contraction in the posterior segments and anterior crossbite in a few months with maximum control of the applied forces, despite the objective difficulties related to the specificity of the case.

Introduction: Severe Enamel Fluorosis is frequently found in young adolescents with aesthetic concerns. Colourimetric alterations could vary from diffuse opacities to demarcated brown and white areas. Material and methods: One young patient with a severe fluorosis was treated by a combined use of at-home bleaching and at-office resin infiltration. Results: In all the affected teeth, existing aesthetic enamel alterations, were successfully treated by the combined use of bleaching and Icon® resin application. Given the minimal substance loss due to the erosion infiltration procedure, the patient was extremely satisfied with the results. Conclusions: Our case report show the capability of treating severe fluorosis with bleaching and subsequent Icon® resin infiltration. Longer observation periods in studies with larger patients population are needed to validate the clinical significance found in this case report.

To date, no strong long-term data have been reported about new innovative clinical protocols to manage oral hygiene. An improper management of oral hygiene may lead to an increase in dental implant failure, and to an increase in infective complications in prosthetic rehabilitation. Personalized techniques are strongly required in dentistry and dental hygiene. A customized and personalized approach to oral hygiene is crucial in ensuring not only effective treatment, but also a careful analysis of the general health status of the patient involved in the therapeutic process. D-BioTECH is an acronym for Dental BIOfilm Detection Technique: it is based on a tailored approach to patients, ensuring that the operator actively interacts with the patient and their specific needs, especially during the domiciliary therapy. D-BioTECH is an approach to preventive care: in D-BioTECH, both dental hygienists and dentists play a central role. The use of a personalized approach to oral hygiene is the first step towards increasing implant and prosthesis survival rate; moreover, personalized medicine is strategic for managing and preventing the biological complications associated with several dental risk factors.

The aim of the study was to analyze retention protocols and materials for fixed retainers used by clinicians providing orthodontic treatment in Poland. The survey was carried out from February to April 2021. The questionnaire was designed using the Google Forms tool. After validation, the questionnaire was delivered to verified active orthodontists gathered in a closed social media group of 615 members. Finally, 104 answers were received. Answers to individual questions were provided in percentages and tabularized. A chi-squared test of proportion was used to compare: the proportion of clinicians using retainers of different characteristics and the proportions of clinicians indicating the superiority of a given clinical solution. Rectangular steel braided wire was rated as most reliable. However, doctors who declared to use gold chain were mostly solely using this type of wire. Multistranded round wire was rated the worst. Fiber-reinforced composite was mainly used in periodontal patients. The protocols used by Polish orthodontic practitioners relied on double long-term retention with regular follow-up. The most popular material was stainless steel braided rectangular wire bonded with a flowable composite. Most clinicians believed they could maintain the treatment results, but they declared that patients’ cooperation was a challenge.

The primary aim of this observational survey study was to assess patients’ attitudes toward clinical dental practice during the COVID-19 pandemic; the secondary aim was to evaluate patients’ attitudes towards oral health by maintaining an appropriate lifestyle and oral hygiene at home. The questionnaire was developed using Google Forms. The questionnaire consisted of three parts: Part A—geographic, demographic, and personal data; Part B—patients’ attitude toward oral health selfcare and lifestyle; Part C—patients’ attitude toward dental practice. This survey, conducted during the months of November and December 2020, enrolled 1135 subjects throughout Italy. All data were statistically analyzed. COVID-19 has changed patients’ approach to dental procedures. Most of the people interviewed lived in families, and their greatest fear was infecting a family member. Restrictive measures forced people to stay at home, which led to an increased consumption of various types of food, including cariogenic foods. People said they felt safe when they went to the dentist, but they also paid special attention to measures to prevent contagion. Among the measures that should be introduced in similar situations in the future, people wanted telemedicine, a phone recall, and the possible use of video clips for home oral care instructions.

Caries is one of the most common chronic diseases and the main cause of tooth loss. Early detection provides a better evaluation of the disease and improves the chances to succeed of prevention strategies. This pilot study aims to compare the effectiveness of ICDAS-II system (International Caries Detection and Assessment System) and the fluorescence terminal (Proof) of VistaCam iX intraoral camera, in the early diagnosis and assessment of caries in permanent teeth. Results shows a fair correlation between ICDAS II and VistaCam iX Proof; intraoral camera proved to be a useful support to the ICDAS II visual / tactile monitoring of carious lesions in occlusal surfaces.

Enamel hypomineralization is characterized by decreased refractive index of the lesion surface as compared to the surrounding sound enamel. Icon® treatment has been recently successfully used for the cosmetic treatment of enamel demineralizations seen in white spot lesions (WSLs) and developmental defects of enamel (DDE). On the other hand, cases of molar incisal hypomineralization (MIH), deep lesions of traumatic origin, and those associated with severe fluorosis do not have the same response to this type of treatment. The application of a new deep Icon® infiltrative technique is proposed and the aesthetic results are validated by using a spectrophotometric approach as previously described by our group.

The effectiveness of sealants in preventing pits and fissures decay is currently assessed by retention as principal clinical evaluation criteria. Among the determinants for sealant retention, an incomplete removal of plaque debris can cause lack of adhesion at the sealant-enamel interface. Therefore, in order to optimize the caries prevention outcome, clinical procedures of biofilm detection and cleansing are crucial. Technological aids can help clinicians in these critical phases. A clinical procedure is described of sealant application using VistaCam iX Proof fluorescence camera for quantitative assessment of surface demineralization and Combi air polishing unit for plaque removal. Pre and post air polishing intraoral VistaCam iX Proof images show the effectiveness of glycine airpolish technology in plaque removal. The results encourage technological aided clinical procedures in enhancing sealant application for pit and fissures caries prevention. Further clinical research is needed to validate our preliminary outcomes.

Dental trauma resulting in permanent tooth avulsion commonly affects the young population. The prognosis of replantation after avulsion depends on the natural history of inflammatory and replacement resorption. Several risk factors for type and onset of external resorption have been defined. This case study describes different resorptive patterns observed in two upper central incisors belonging to a single individual, avulsed in the same moment, and replanted after thirty-six hours of dry storage. The roots were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and stereomicroscope imaging, to obtain an in-depth analysis of the resorptive pattern. The aim of this report is to: (i) underline the high variability in the incidence of root resorption after replantation across and within types of teeth and resorption; and (ii) underline the possible concurrence of different factors affecting the onset and type of resorptive pattern. In conclusion, an unpredictable pattern of resorption may account for the poor prognosis when teeth are replanted outside the current recommendations.

Aim: early diagnosis and monitoring of caries lesions are the most important issues of primary and secondary prevention policies. The intraoral Vista Cam iX (Durr Dental, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany) uses the fluorescence phenomenon for a non-invasive, quantitative caries diagnosis. In order to make a precise evaluation the tooth surface must be completely cleaned and without biofilm. The current study aimed to evaluate the effects of biofilm removal, using air-polishing device (Combi, Mectron SpA) with glycine, on fluorescence VistaCam iX camera quantitative measurements of caries. Methods: Patients with complete permanent dentition without any kind of restorative treatments in the lateral and posterior section of upper and lower dental arches were enrolled. The occlusal surfaces of molars and premolars were photographed using the fluorescence terminal Proof of the intraoral camera VistaCam iX before and after air polishing glycine procedures, registering the highest value gained for each occlusal surface. Results: 133 cuspidate permanent teeth of patients aged between 13 and 25were analyzed. Descriptive analysis showed an average of 0.82 (SD= 0.65; Min= 0.00; Max= 1.80; Median= 1.20) and of 0.93 (SD= 0.60; Min= 0.00; Max= 1.70; Median=1.20) for values before and after treatment, respectively. The scores assigned by VistaCam iX Proof fluorescence based camera to the occlusal surfaces, after the air-polishing treatment, are averagely higher than those before treatment, especially in the diagnosis of initial tooth decay. Conclusions: Biofilm removal with glycine air-polishing improves the VistaCam camera accuracy in recognizing healthy tissue from the decayed one, due to the fact that air-polishing treatment increases the decayed tissue reaction to the fluorescence.

The accuracy in pits and fissures caries detection is of paramount importance in dental caries primary and secondary prevention. A combination of visual examination and probing is currently the mainstay of occlusal caries diagnosis. Unfortunately, these types of inspection alone may leave a certain number of pit and fissure caries undetected. The Vista Cam iX fluorescence camera (Durr Dental, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany) is a novel dental diagnostic tool for quantitative assessment of dental caries with high specificity for carious lesions detection. In the presented cases photographic images, representing the visual diagnostic approach, are applied as integration to VistaCam iX Proof images. A step-by-step sequence of inspection and assessment of operative treatment need is presented in a case of hidden pit and fissure caries on a permanent molar. Based on the reported case, it could be observed that VistaCam iX Proof shows promising results in hidden pits and fissures caries detection and could be considered a non-invasive examination method that facilitate the detection of early lesions and a potential diagnostic aid.

Developmental defects of enamel (DDE) are daily encountered in clinical practice. DDE are alteration in quality and quantity of the enamel, caused by disruption and/or damage to the enamel organ during the amelogenesis process. Several clinical indices have been developed to categorize enamel defects based on their nature, appearance, microscopic features or their cause. The aetiology of DDE is not completely clear. Enamel fluorosis is a hypo-mineralization of enamel characterised by subsurface porosity as a result of excess fluoride intake during the period of enamel formation. Several types of treatment have been reported, related to the degree of enamel defect. Correct diagnosis according to lesion depth and prognosis of the technique are fundamental factors in the treatment decision-making process.

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate, by means of elemental analysis the mineral density, calcium, and phosphorus weight percent of sound enamel, demineralized and CPP-ACP treated enamel. Elemental analysis allows elemental and isotopic composition of a biologic sample. It can be qualitative (determining what elements are present), and quantitative (determining how much of each are present). INCA Energy 250, Oxford Analytical Instruments Ltd. (UK), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy system for elemental analysis was performed on random assigned samples. Methods: 12 sound premolars were extracted for orthodontic reason. Each tooth was sectioned by using a double-faced diamond microtome under water cooling into three section for a total of 36 samples and randomly assigned to three groups: Group 1 (control), Group 2 (WS: white spot) , Group 3 (WST white spot treated) of 12 samples each. Samples (Group 2 and Group 3) underwent equally to 24 h and 48 h of acid bath duration. Then all the treated samples (Group 3) were coated with CPP-ACP for 5 min before immersion into water twice a day. Group 2 served as control for enamel damage evaluation. Inca Point & ID, an analytic platform software for SEM was used for elemental analysis on samples from Group 1 (C), 2 (WS) and Group 3 (WST) in order to determine the weight % and atomic % presence of Ca and P. Results: The results of the samples analysis from the three Groups show different weight % and atomic% of Ca and P, and clearly reflect the different mineralization rates. Conclusions: 10% Casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) complex, promotes remineralization in vitro. The results of this in vitro study completely agree with this statement. Clinical studies to investigate the intraoral effectiveness of topical applications of CPP-ACP on white spot lesions are required to confirm these results.

Objectives. Detailed clinical quantification of optical properties of developmental defect of enamel is possible with spectrophotometric evaluation. Developmental defects of enamel (DDE) are daily encountered in clinical practice. DDE are an alteration in quality and quantity of the enamel, caused by disruption and/or damage to the enamel organ during amelogenesis. Methods. Several clinical indices have been developed to categorize enamel defects based on their nature, appearance, microscopic features, or cause. A sample of 39 permanent teeth presenting DDE on labial surface was examined using the DDE Modified Index and SpectroShade evaluation. The spectrophotometric approach quantifies L* (luminosity), a* (quantity of green-red), and b* (quantity of blue-yellow) of different DDE. Conclusions. SpectroShade evaluation of the optical properties of the enamel defect enhances clinical understanding of severity and extent of the defect and characterizes the enamel alteration in terms of color discrepancy and surface characterization.

Objectives. Bisphosphonates related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) is a pathological condition characterized by bone exposure or latent infection in patients treated with the drug. The aim of the study is to monitor the BRONJ level of risk health in patients with cancer, according to a preventive clinical protocol, which is firstly aimed at reducing risk factors such as the periodontal infections. Materials and Methods. 10 patients participated in the protocol and were evaluated at baseline and after 3 and 18 months of treatment with bisphosphonates, through full mouth plaque and bleeding scores (FMPS and FMBS), clinical attachment level (CAL) measurement, and the occurrence of osteonecrosis. Results. The mean plaque and bleeding were reduced and the CAL has not shown significant changes and in no cases was there manifestation of BRONJ. Conclusion. The protocol proved crucial for the maintenance of good oral health conditions by eliminating the risk of BRONJ during the observation period.

ABSTRACT Salmonid aquaculture, a major component of the Northern European, North American, and Chilean coastal economies, is under threat from challenges to gill health, many of which originate from plankton communities. A first step toward mitigating losses is to characterize the biological drivers of poor gill health. Numerous planktonic taxa have been implicated, including toxic and siliceous microalgae, hydrozoans, and scyphozoans; however, rigorous longitudinal surveys of plankton diversity and gill health have been lacking. In the current study, we present and assess an exhaustive identification approach combining both morphological and molecular methods together with robust statistical models to identify the planktonic drivers of proliferative gill disease (PGD) and fish mortality. We undertook longitudinal evaluation at two marine aquaculture facilities on the west coast of Scotland using daily data collected during the 2021 growing season (March–October). Examining these two different sites, one sheltered and one exposed to the open sea, we identified potentially new, important, and unexpected planktonic drivers of PGD and mortality (e.g., doliolids and appendicularians) and confirmed the significance of some established threats (e.g., hydrozoans and diatoms). We also explored delayed or “lagged” effects of plankton abundances on gill health and undertook a comparison of environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding and microscopy in their ability to identify and quantify planktonic species. Our data highlight the diversity of planktonic threats to salmonid aquaculture as well as the importance of using both molecular and morphological approaches to detect these. There is now an urgent need to expand systematic longitudinal molecular and morphological approaches across multiple sites and over multiple years. The resultant catalogue of main biological drivers will enable early warning systems, new treatments, and, ultimately, a sustainable platform for future salmonid aquaculture in the marine environment.