Abstract:

Pure titanium (Ti) and its alloys are the "gold standard" for dental implants due to their stable titanium dioxide passive film providing excellent corrosion resistance in physiological environments. This study examined electrochemical interactions between Ti and cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloy (CoCrMo), and between a novel Ti-Magnesium composite (BIACOM TiMg) and CoCrMo, when immersed in everyday solutions representing beverage or oral hygiene exposure. Test solutions included Coca-Cola®, lemon juice, Elmex® fluoride gel, Listerine® Cool Mint, and Sensodyne® fluoride paste. The immersion experiment paired Ti sticks with CoCrMo sticks, then BIACOM TiMg composite with CoCrMo sticks, with three measurements per configuration. Coca-Cola immersion increased electrochemical potential to ~983 mV for BIACOM TiMg and ~830 mV for CP4 titanium. Significant potential increases occurred in Elmex fluoride gel for both materials. Listerine Cool Mint and Sensodyne Fluoride exposures showed electrochemical interactions exceeding 200 mV. Marked differences in corrosion stability between CP4 titanium and BIACOM TiMg composite were confirmed. Findings indicate that material pairing and electrolyte environment significantly influence galvanic and corrosion behavior, with Ti-Mg composite showing higher susceptibility than CP4 titanium under tested conditions, impacting dental/biomedical material selection in oral environments.

Abstract: Little is known about the effects of orthodontic loading on dental implants used for orthodontic anchorage in patients with Stage IV periodontitis. This retrospective case–control study included 58 dental implants in 24 patients with Stage IV periodontitis. The dental implants were used for both chewing function and orthodontic anchorages. The outcome measures included peri-implant marginal bone loss and peri-implantitis. Pair t test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test were used to analyze the impact of implants as orthodontic anchorage on MBL and peri-implantitis. No implants were lost during the 17-year follow-up. Patients with poor compliance significantly predicted the MBL. Poor oral hygiene, one-piece implants and implants with a KG < 2 mm were associated with a higher risk of peri-implantitis. Results from the present long-term study indicated dental implants could be successfully used as orthodontic anchorage in periodontal compromised patients.

Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the changes in the number of cycles to fracture (NCF) of the Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) files after multiple uses and investigate the potential relationship with stress-induced martensite transformation. A total of 225 ProTaper Ultimate (PTUL) files were classified into three groups: Group 1 consisted of new files, Group 2 comprised files used to shape two resin simulated canals, and Group 3 consisted of files used to shape four canals. The simulated resin canals with a 16 mm length of J-shaped with 35° curvature were prepared using PTUL Slider, Shaper, F1, F2, and F3 files sequentially. After instrumentation, the cyclic fatigue resistance of each sequential file was assessed in a 35° curved canal by rotating at 400 rpm using a custom-made device. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post-hoc test or Kruskal–Wallis with Dunn’s test with Bonferroni correction for parametric and non-parametric data, respectively. Slider and Shaper maintained consistent NCF across all groups. In contrast, F1 showed a slight increase after two uses but declined significantly after four uses. F2 demonstrated progressive NCF decline, with significant differences between new and four-use groups. F3 exhibited the most significant reduction in NCF across all conditions (p &lt; 0.05). Repeated use of NiTi files reduces their cyclic fatigue resistance, but the degree of decline varies among files. Repeated use of a certain-sized file may enhance fracture resistance, possibly due to stress-induced martensite (SIM) transformation.

Abstract: Background: Preoperative prediction of mandibular third molar (M3) eruption remains a major challenge in dentistry and oral surgery. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers new opportunities to improve diagnostic accuracy and reduce the subjectivity associated with manual assessment. Objective: This study aimed to develop and validate PDApp, a machine-learning-based software designed to predict third lower molar eruption status (erupted vs. retained) using panoramic radiographic images, and to compare its diagnostic performance with clinical exploration. Materials and Methods: A retrospective dataset of 383 mandibular third molars with clinically confirmed eruption status was collected. Panoramic radiographic images were processed and used to train multiple machine learning (ML) algorithms integrated into PDApp for eruption prediction. The software’s performance metrics were analyzed and validated against clinical exploration, considered the diagnostic reference standard. Results: PDApp achieved the highest performance metrics among the evaluated ML approaches, reaching an accuracy of up to 99.5% in predicting mandibular third molar eruption. The tool showed strong reliability in differentiating erupted from retained M3 using panoramic radiographs. Conclusions: PDApp represents a robust, accurate, and easy-to-use AI-based tool for predicting third molar eruption potential in adolescent and teenage patients. Its implementation may enhance diagnostic efficiency, reduce common errors associated with manual evaluation, and support clinical decision-making in the management of impacted mandibular third molars. Future work will focus on integrating automatic calculation of radiographic ratios to achieve a fully automated prediction workflow.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Conventional wound care often fails to address the complex pathology of diabetic wounds adequately. Research shows that hyaluronic acid and its derivatives, while promoting tissue regeneration and healing in later stages. We evaluated the efficacy of a novel topical formulation in promoting socket healing following post-extraction in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus, by combining sodium hyaluronate and six amino acids involved in collagen synthesis. Methods: A single-center, two-arm randomized controlled trial was conducted in adults aged 18 and over with type 2 diabetes requiring extraction of at least one non-impacted tooth. Forty-three participants were randomized to receive either the intervention or no treatment. Primary outcomes included a modified Landry’s healing index and rate of socket closure. Results: Comparative analysis of healing index scores showed significantly improved healing in the intervention by day 7 and day 14 compared to control, with no improvements in the rate of socket closure in the treatment cohort. Conclusions: This research provides evidence on the therapeutic efficacy of the gel formulation under study in promoting wound healing of post-extraction sites in diabetic patients undergoing tooth extraction. Further research is needed to compare its efficacy with standard treatments and adjunct therapies.

Abstract: Aim: To map current evidence and identify key factors influencing peri-implant tissue stability related to abutment configuration, design, materials, and prosthetic protocols in implant-supported fixed prostheses. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed and Scopus was performed up to June 2025, supplemented by manual searches. Human studies in English with ≥1 year of follow-up were included. Two reviewers independently conducted screening, data extraction, and quality assessment using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. The review was carried out at the Universities of Sassari and Ferrara in collaboration with the Osstem Global Consensus Meeting. Results: From 974 records, 46 studies were included: 33 randomized clinical trials, 9 cohort, 2 case-control, and 2 cross-sectional studies. Thirty-nine were rated as good quality and five as fair. Concave abutment profiles and emergence angles < 30° promoted peri-implant tissue stability, while convex designs and wider angles increased risks of bone loss and peri-implantitis. Titanium remains the reference abutment material in posterior sites, zirconia provides superior aesthetics anteriorly, and hybrid abutments balance strength and esthetics. Conclusions: Prosthetic design and abutment material selection critically affect peri-implant tissue stability and esthetic outcomes. Evidence supports screw-retained designs, platform switching, and the “one abutment–one time” approach for predictable long-term success.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the bacterial invasion inhibitory ability of MetaSEAL Soft Paste, which is a root canal sealer that has good sealing properties in dye penetration tests, compared with conventional sealers, using a novel bacterial leakage test model. Methods: We compared MetaSEAL Soft Paste (methacrylate-based resin sealer) with Canals (zinc oxide-eugenol-based sealer), AH Plus Jet (epoxy-based resin sealer), and Dentalis NX (calcium hydroxide-based sealer). In the bacterial leakage tests, the center of the root of a bovine incisor was sliced horizontally. The area of the root canal prepared using a diamond point was filled with a sealer, and the specimen was placed on a brain heart infusion agar medium. Specimens with a filter paper disc containing Enterococcus faecalis were maintained until colonization was observed. The antibacterial properties of the sealers were evaluated using the agar diffusion test and the direct contact test. Results: AH Plus Jet tended to take the longest time to show colonies in the bacterial leakage test; however, this result was not significant compared with MetaSEAL Soft Paste. In the direct contact test, significantly fewer bacteria were detected in MetaSEAL Soft Paste and Canals than in AH Plus Jet or positive controls (p < 0.01). Conclusions: This study suggests that the novel bacterial leakage test model is effective for accurately evaluating the ability of sealers to prevent bacterial leakage, and further suggests that the sealing ability of MetaSEAL Soft Paste may not be superior to that of AH Plus Jet.

Abstract:

Background: The attached gingiva is the portion of the gingiva that is firmly bound to the underlying alveolar bone and cementum. Its firm attachment to the periosteum and connective tissue renders it immobile during physiologic movements. Functionally, the attached gingiva increases the resistance of the periodontium to mechanical and external injuries, contributes to the stabilization of the gingival margin, and aids in the dissipation of physiological forces exerted by the muscular fibers of the alveolar mucosa onto the gingival tissues. Histologically, it is characterized by keratinized epithelium supported by densely packed collagen fibers, which provide firm anchorage to the underlying bone and cementum and contribute to the structural integrity of the dento-gingival unit. Anatomically, the attached gingiva lies apical to the junctional epithelium and coronal to the alveolar mucosa. Clinically, its width is typically determined by subtracting the sulcus depth from the total width of keratinized tissue, a method that inherently includes the junctional epithelium within the measurement. Although some studies indicate that periodontal stability can be maintained with minimal attached gingiva under optimal plaque control, substantial evidence suggests that its presence remains fundamental for preserving gingival architecture, resisting mechanical trauma, and maintaining periodontal health. Practical Application: From a clinical standpoint, it has been suggested that an adequate width of attached gingiva is necessary to protect the periodontium. Nevertheless, situations may arise in which its dimension is reduced or even absent. It has been suggested that a minimum width of 1 mm of attached gingiva is required to maintain periodontal health and provide protection to the periodontium. However, when only this minimal dimension is present, the attachment is predominantly derived from the junctional epithelium, and such a fragile adherence may not be sufficient to protect the dento-gingival unit against mechanical trauma. Consequently, a width greater than 1mm of attached gingiva should be recommended to ensure adequate mechanical protection and to support long-term stability of the gingival margin. Methods: This narrative review addresses classical and contemporary literature on the morphology, histology, function, and clinical relevance of the attached gingiva. Studies evaluating the width of keratinized and attached tissues, and their influence on periodontal stability, inflammation, and mucogingival conditions were examined to clarify the biological significance of adequate tissue dimensions. Results: When minimal attached gingiva is present, reliance on the junctional epithelium may offer insufficient protection against mechanical trauma. Evidence suggests that a width greater than 1 mm of attached gingiva provides improved mechanical defense, supports the stability of the gingival margin, and contributes to the preservation of periodontal health. A tissue-based categorization of the attached gingiva is proposed to assist clinicians in assessing mucogingival conditions and in determining the need for surgical augmentation. Conclusion: This review consolidates current concepts regarding the dimensions required for the protective and resistance functions of the attached gingiva. The proposed categorization offers a practical framework to guide clinical decision-making, enabling practitioners to accurately evaluate attached gingiva quality and determine when surgical intervention is indicated for managing mucogingival deficiencies.

Abstract: Eye-tracking provides valuable insights into visual perception and cognitive processes during the diagnostic interpretation of radiographic images. This study investigated eye movement patterns and pupil dynamics and their association with diagnostic performance among dental students who interpreted panoramic radiographs of mixed dentition. A total of 54 fifth-year dental students participated in this study, and their eye movements were recorded using a noninvasive eye-tracking system during free observation without time restrictions. Diagnostic performance was assessed based on the correct identification of the five radiographic findings, and eye movement metrics, blink behavior, and pupil area were analyzed. The eye movement patterns were classified into four groups: clockwise (R, 29.6%), counterclockwise (L, 44.4%), saccadic (S, 16.7%), and concentrated (C, 9.3%). Students with clockwise patterns demonstrated significantly higher diagnostic scores and more efficient scanning strategies than those in the other groups (p &lt; 0.001). Linear mixed-effects modeling indicated that a reading time of up to 120 s improved performance, whereas a longer viewing time did not yield further benefits. These findings suggest that the diagnostic accuracy of dental radiography is supported by efficient global-to-local eye movement strategies, optimal allocation of cognitive resources, and controlled reading time.

Abstract: The aim of the study was to evaluate the new orthodontic TiNb wires, in direct comparation to the golden standard in orthodontics, NiTi wires, when treating. There is limited information, in the literature, about patients with severe malocclusions being treated form start to end with TiNb, and the TiNb wires were mostly use iThe aim of the study was to evaluate the new orthodontic TiNb wires, in direct comparation to the golden standard in orthodontics, NiTi wires, when treating. There is limited information, in the literature, about patients with severe malocclusions being treated form start to end with TiNb, and the TiNb wires were mostly use in the final stages of treatment. Our pro-tocol consisted of three orthodontic wires 0.016, 0.016x0.025, 0.019x0.025 for levelling and aligning stage and 0.019x0.025 stainless steel for finishing stage, in order to treat the same case reproduced on a modified scientific simulator. The bracket system used was made by GC slot 0.22, TiNb wires made by Morita and the NiTi wires produced by GC. We ligated all bracket using SS wire ligatures 0.008, for anchorage we used transpalatal arch. The temperature of the scientific simulator was set between 20-25 degrees Cel-sius. We’ve used upper arches and we studied the repositioning of upper ectopic canines and space closure in order to obtain an equilibrated maxil-lary arch. After each changing of orthodontic wires we scanned the upper arch using Medit I600. After concluding all stages on all upper arches we assessed the results using LITTLE´s Iregularity index and stereo micros-copy to explain metal stress on NiTi and TiNb, we propose an optimized process of using TiNb and NiTi wires when treating class II severe maloc-clusions with premolar extractions. Thus, we observed permanent defor-mation for all 0,016 TiNb wires used in first stage, so TiNb underperformed in comparation with NiTi. Also, the Little´s Iregularity Index was superior in the NiTi wires group on 0.016 wires verifying the change of state in TiNb wires group.n the final stages of treatment. Our pro-tocol consisted of three orthodontic wires 0.016, 0.016x0.025, 0.019x0.025 for levelling and aligning stage and 0.019x0.025 stainless steel for finishing stage, in order to treat the same case reproduced on a modified scientific simulator. The bracket system used was made by GC slot 0.22, TiNb wires made by Morita and the NiTi wires produced by GC. We ligated all bracket using SS wire ligatures 0.008, for anchorage we used transpalatal arch. The temperature of the scientific simulator was set between 20-25 degrees Cel-sius. We’ve used upper arches and we studied the repositioning of upper ectopic canines and space closure in order to obtain an equilibrated maxil-lary arch. After each changing of orthodontic wires we scanned the upper arch using Medit I600. After concluding all stages on all upper arches we assessed the results using LITTLE´s Iregularity index and stereo micros-copy to explain metal stress on NiTi and TiNb, we propose an optimized process of using TiNb and NiTi wires when treating class II severe maloc-clusions with premolar extractions. Thus, we observed permanent defor-mation for all 0,016 TiNb wires used in first stage, so TiNb underperformed in comparation with NiTi. Also, the Little´s Iregularity Index was superior in the NiTi wires group on 0.016 wires verifying the change of state in TiNb wires group.

Abstract: Background: Occlusal dysesthesia (OD), also known as phantom bite syndrome, is characterized by the subjective sensation of an uncomfortable or “wrong” bite despite the absence of objective occlusal pathology. This scoping review aimed to synthesize the current evidence on the epidemiology, etiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of OD. Methods: The PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched using the terms “phantom bite,” “occlusal dysesthesia,” “occlusal hyperawareness,” “occlusal hypervigilance,” “uncomfortable occlusion,” and “oral cenestopathy.” Studies were screened according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria (2020), and evidence quality was assessed using the Oxford Center for Evidence-Based Medicine levels of evidence. Results: A total of 20 studies were included (one systematic review, two clinical guidelines, two case-control studies, one retrospective cohort study, two retrospective case series, six case reports, four narrative reviews, one survey, and one theoretical article). OD predominantly affected middle-aged women, with symptom durations often exceeding several years. OD is increasingly believed to be caused by disorderly central sensory processing or maladaptive signal processing rather than by a primary occlusal abnormality, and high rates of psychiatric comorbidities have been reported. Current evidence supports conservative multidisciplinary management approaches, including patient education, cognitive behavioral therapy, and supportive pharmacotherapy and strongly advises against irreversible dental interventions. Conclusions: OD is a complex biopsychosocial condition requiring multidisciplinary care. The current low-quality evidence is primarily obtained from case reports and case series. Therefore, high-quality controlled trials are urgently required to establish evidence-based diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols.

Abstract: Background and Objectives: Periodontitis leads to progressive destruction of periodontal tissues and, despite advances in regenerative approaches, clinical outcomes remain inconsistent. Lasers have been proposed as adjuncts in regenerative periodontology for their antimicrobial, hemostatic, and photobiomodulatory properties, but the available evidence is heterogeneous. This scoping review aim to systematically map clinical and experimental evidence on the role of lasers in periodontal tissue regeneration. Materials and Methods: The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched up to September 2025 without time restrictions. Eligible studies included in vitro, ex vivo, in vivo and clinical research assessing the application of lasers for periodontal tissue regeneration. Reviews, conference abstracts and studies unrelated to regeneration were excluded. Results: The electronic search retrieved 314 records, of which 193 unique articles were screened after duplicates removal. Seventeen full texts were assessed and 15 studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Included studies comprised 5 in vitro investigations, 2 ex vivo studies, 1 in vivo animal study, and 7 clinical studies, published between 2015 and 2025. In vitro and ex vivo evidence demonstrated that laser irradiation enhanced cell proliferation, differentiation, growth factor release, and root surface conditioning. The in vivo study confirmed increased angiogenesis and bone formation after Er:YAG photobiomodulation. Clinical studies, including randomized controlled trials and case reports, reported improvements in probing depth reduction, clinical attachment gain, and radiographic bone fill, especially when lasers were used in combination with regenerative techniques or biomaterials. Conclusions: Available evidence suggests that lasers can positively modulate biological processes and enhance the outcomes of regenerative periodontal procedures. However, the limited number of high-quality clinical trials, variability in laser types and parameters, and heterogeneity in protocols limit the strength of current conclusions. Further standardized randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up are needed to clarify the clinical relevance of lasers in periodontal tissue regeneration.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) are common in adolescents and require immediate first aid to optimize outcomes, especially in cases of avulsion. Adolescents are often the first responders during school or sports activities, yet their preparedness remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and awareness of pre-university students in Mangalore, Karnataka, regarding the emergency management of TDIs. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 400 adolescents aged 15 to 18 years from four randomly selected pre-university colleges. A structured, validated 20-item questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics and domains of knowledge (6 items), attitude (4 items), and awareness (6 items). Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and one-way ANOVA. Results: Knowledge regarding dental trauma management was low, with a mean score of 2.19 ± 1.28 out of 6; only 26.3% knew that avulsed permanent teeth can be replanted and 7% identified an appropriate storage medium. Attitudes were positive, with 88.8% of the participants expressing willingness to assist an injured peer. Awareness related to preventive practices and prior exposure was moderate; mouthguard use was reported by only 11.5% of students. Knowledge scores did not differ significantly across schools (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Adolescents demonstrated favorable attitudes but inadequate knowledge of essential emergency procedures for TDIs. School-based dental first-aid training and reinforcement of preventive practices are urgently needed to improve adolescents’ preparedness for managing dental trauma.

Abstract:

Canavalia gladiata (Jacq.) DC. (C. gladiata) has long been used in traditional medicine to treat suppurative inflammatory conditions such as sinusitis, hemorrhoids, and boils. Its antibacterial activity against oral pathogens and potential use as a non-alcoholic mouthwash have also been reported. In this study, a 0.5 M NaCl extract of C. gladiata (CGENa) was prepared, and its protein content was quantified. The Concanavalin A equivalent (Con Aeq.) of CGENa was determined via hemagglutination assay, and its effect on nitric oxide (NO) production was evaluated in RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide(LPS-A.a) derived from Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A. actinomycetemcomitans). LPS was extracted from six A. actinomycetemcomitans strains and used to induce inflammatory activation. Treatment with CGENa significantly inhibited LPS-induced NO production without cytotoxic effects, suggesting an anti-inflammatory potential associated with lectin-like components. These results suggest that C. gladiata extract suppresses LPS-A.a mediated macrophage activation, further studies are required to determine whether Con A specifically mediates this response and to evaluate its therapeutic relevance in the context of periodontal inflammation.

Abstract: Background: Accurate digital impressions are crucial for the long-term success of implant-supported prostheses, with scan bodies playing a pivotal role in transferring the implant position into the virtual model. Recent work has focused on PEEK (polyether-etherketone) scan bodies because their optical behavior may facilitate intraoral scanning; however, the breadth and quality of supporting evidence remain unclear. Methods: This scoping review followed PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines and was registered in the Open Science Framework (OSF; Registration DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/CU3V8). Pub-Med/MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus were searched through September 2025. Eligible designs included in vitro studies, randomized trials, observational studies, and technical reports evaluating PEEK scan bodies in implant dentistry. Screening and data extraction were performed in duplicate, and findings were synthesized descriptively. Results: The search identified 227 records, and after screening, 31 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies were in vitro, with limited clinical evidence, and only one prospective clinical study was identified. Outcomes commonly addressed trueness, precision, scan time, and handling. Comparators varied (e.g., titanium, resin; splinted vs. unsplinted), and the results on accuracy were heterogeneous, with deviations typically within clinically acceptable limits (&lt;100 µm). Conclusion: PEEK scan bodies are applicable for digital implant impressions. Clinical data are sparse, though, and methods vary. Controlled clinical studies are necessary to confirm the accuracy, reliability, and indications of this approach compared to titanium ISBs.

Abstract: Introduction Malocclusions are often treated with appliances made of metal alloys. These alloys biodegrade in oral cavity and release toxic metals such as nickel and chromium. This study aimed to assess nickel and chromium content in the saliva of patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliances. Materials and methods This was a cross-cutting study aiming at assessing nickel and chromium content in saliva. A survey was conducted to record socio-demographic characteristics and clinical signs due to the wearing of orthodontic appliances. A 10ml saliva sample was used to measure salivary pH and assess nickel and chromium concentrations using atomic emission spectrophotometry. A Student's T-test compared saliva metal levels in non-wearers and wearers of metal orthodontic appliances. Results On the whole, 92 participants, among whom 46 without appliance and 46 wearing appliance were received during the study period. Their mean age was 17.05±6.46 years. Patients’ mean saliva pH was 6.97±0.44. Mean nickel concentration was 4.39±4.01g/l in the saliva of non-appliance wearers and 20.41±18.56g/l in the saliva of appliance wearers, respectively. Chromium mean concentration was 1.3±1.33g/l for non-appliance wearers and 9.38±19.49g/l and for appliance wearers. Conclusions Metal orthodontic appliances release nickel and chromium in saliva. It is necessary to monitor the risk of intolerance and optimize treatment duration.

Abstract: Background: Supernumerary teeth (ST) are developmental anomalies that may interfere with eruption, alignment, and occlusal balance. Their etiopathogenesis and management remain controversial. This multicentric study aimed to evaluate the epidemiological, morphological, and radiographic features of ST in a Romanian population and identify impact predictors. Methods: Between 2020 and 2025, 153 patients (91 males, 62 females; mean age 14.8 ± 6.2 years) with clinically and radiographically confirmed ST were examined in three academic centers. Diagnostic assessment included orthopantomography and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Teeth were classified by morphology, topography, and eruption status. Statistical analyses and binary logistic regression identified significant predictors (p < 0.05). Results: A total of 185 ST were recorded, most frequently conical (48.6%) and mesiodens (56.2%). Complications were observed in 40.5% of patients. Predictors of impaction included younger age (< 13 years) (OR = 3.12; p = 0.003), male gender (OR = 1.78; p = 0.046), tuberculate morphology (OR = 2.93; p = 0.021), and Class III malocclusion (OR = 1.89; p = 0.039). CBCT demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy (κ = 0.89). Conclusions: Supernumerary teeth show morphology- and age-dependent impaction risk. CBCT provides enhanced diagnostic precision, supporting personalized, evidence-based management and future genetic investigations.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: Down Syndrome (DS), the most common genetic disorder among newborns, is frequently associated with oral-motor dysmorphologies, such as oral hypotonia, tongue protrusion, short palate, and malocclusion, compromising the oral functions of sucking, chewing, swallowing, and speech production. Therapeutic interventions with stimulating palatal plates (SPP) have been proposed to prevent and improve oral-motor dysmorphologies in DS. This study proposes a new digital workflow for the manufacturing and use of a modified SPP. Methods: We report the step-by-step application of the new workflow to five clinical cases, all infants with DS, aged between 5 and 11 months, from the mouth scanning protocol and model printing to SPP manufacturing and delivering, and assessment of oral-morphological features and language abilities. Key novel features include a SPP with an acrylic extension with a pacifier terminal and, importantly, the use of an infant friendly intraoral scanner. Results: The new workflow had good acceptability by infants and parents, offering a safe, easy to implement and feasible solution for SPP design, as it avoided the high risks associated with impression materials. It also supported the use of the SPP to promote tongue stimulation, tongue retraction, and stimulate oral-muscle function in oral-motor disorders in children with DS, especially in infants. Conclusions: Within the limitations of the current study, it was shown that the proposed digital workflow constitutes a viable and infant-friendly approach to the production and use of SPP, and thus promises to contribute to improving oral morphology and promoting auditory-motor language abilities.

Abstract: Background: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a T-cell-mediated chronic inflammatory condition affecting the oral mucosa; it can present with symptoms such as a burning sensation and pain, which may significantly impair patients' quality of life. Zinc-L-carnosine (ZnC) is a chelated compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to promote mucosal repair. This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Hepilor, a zinc-L-carnosine-based mouthwash, in alleviating pain in patients with OLP. Materials and Methods: The study involved 19 patients with a clinical and histological diagnosis of symptomatic OLP. A randomized, double-blind, crossover clinical trial was conducted. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups that sequentially received either Hepilor mouthwash or placebo mouthwash for four weeks, separated by a four-week washout period. Patients' discomfort was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain and the Oral Lichen Planus Symptom Severity Measure (LPOSSM) questionnaire at the beginning and end of each treatment period. Results: VAS scores decreased in the Hepilor-treated group, but not significantly. LPOSSM scores also did not show significant differences between the treatment groups. Conclusions: Although the results did not reach statistical significance, the study showed a trend toward symptom reduction in patients treated with zinc-L-carnosine. Further studies with larger sample sizes and standardized evaluation methods are needed to establish a stronger relationship between the use of zinc-L-carnosine and its efficacy in treating OLP.

Abstract: Background: Burnout, a syndrome of emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced personal accomplishment, is a significant concern among dental students because of the intense demands of their academic and clinical training. This study aimed to de-termine the prevalence of burnout and its related dimensions among dental students at King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 dental students (147 males, 153 females) from the 4th year to the internship level, selected via simple random sampling. Data were collected using a validated, self-administered online questionnaire. The instrument assessed demo-graphic information and three dimensions of burnout: Overload (4 items), Lack of De-velopment (4 items), and Neglect (4 items), using a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: The study revealed a significant prevalence of burnout symptoms, particularly in two key dimensions. In the Overload dimension, a majority of students felt overwhelmed, with 58% reporting they "invest more than is healthy" in their studies and 53% admitting to neglecting their personal lives. Similarly, in the Lack of Development dimension, 57% wished to study some-thing more challenging, and 51% felt their current studies were hampering their abili-ties. The Neglect dimension was less pronounced, indicating that despite the pressures, most students did not report giving up in the face of academic challenges. Conclusion: Dental students at King Khalid University experience significant levels of burnout, primarily manifesting as academic overload and a perceived lack of professional de-velopment. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions, such as workload management strategies, enhanced academic advising, and accessible mental health support, to foster a healthier learning environment and ensure the well-being of future dental professionals.