Abstract: Population aging is reshaping oral health systems in ways that are difficult to ignore. Such challenges become particularly complex in contexts suffering from strong social inequities, limited access to dental services and/or a growing dependency on informal healthcare. In spite of being largely preventable, oral and dental disease remain highly prevalent among older people. This results particularly worrisome since it is known that oral disease in the elderly has enormous consequences, well beyond the oral cavity and may affect nutrition, frailty and quality of life. It is in this context that mobile health technologies (mHealth) have emerged as potentially valuable tools to support, not only the promotion of oral health, but also its monitoring, education and the training of caregivers. However, it is not yet characterized, to what extent do existing mobile applications properly respond to the specific needs of the older population and their caregivers. This narrative review aims to critically examine the current landscape of mobile health applications designed to improve oral health in older people; with a strong focus on tools oriented to self-care, clinical monitoring, support to caregivers and training of primary attention personnel. We decided to follow the SANRA methodological framework, by summarizing the evidence published in the literature between the years 2000 and 2024 and further analyzing the application’s functionalities, their target users, their usability and the strength of the evidence supporting their development and implementation. Our findings reveal a substantial heterogeneity regarding scope, design and validation, as well as a persisting lack of culturally adapted solutions, focus on geriatrics and oriented towards caregivers. In spite of the potential, most applications show a limited clinical validation, a weak integration into health systems and an insufficient consideration of the cognitive, functional and social determinants of aging. Interpreted within global and regional policy frameworks, including the WHO Healthy Aging 2021–30 and the Global strategy and action plan on oral health 2023–30, these results highlight critical gaps and future directions for the development of equitable, evidence-based mHealth interventions in geriatric oral care.

Abstract: (1) Background: This article evaluates the influence of different dentin cleaning protocols and surface conditioning on the shear bond strength of resin composite to bovine dentin, with and without thermocycling. (2) Methods: 120 cubic alloy specimens were bonded to bovine dentin using a resin composite. Dentin surfaces were treated with one of four cleaning protocols (hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite, cleaning solvent (acetone, isopropyl alcohol, and di-isopropyl ether), or distilled water) and either subjected to total-etch conditioning (TE) or left unetched. Shear bond strength was measured after 24 hours of storage and after thermocycling (TC; ΔT=50 K). Statistical analysis was performed at a significance level of α=0.05. (2) Results: TC reduced the overall shear bond strength by approximately 40%. The highest median bond strength (3.45±1.82 MPa) was observed in specimens treated with sodium hypochlorite without total-etching. In contrast, the lowest values (1.37±1.20 MPa) were found in specimens cleaned with cleaning solvent before TE and TC. Thermocycling significantly increased the incidence of adhesive failures at the specimen–composite interface (p

Abstract: Occlusion is strongly related to oral health and is a key factor for the successful outcome in dental restorations, because prosthetic restorations must not only be harmoniously integrated, but also balanced in terms of occlusion and articulation. The current study aims to establish the reproducibility of tooth contacts in central occlusion using a prototype of a new dental articulator and compare the results with the T-Scan and Medit i500 systems. Materials and Methods: We applied two different types of laboratory methods, digital and conventional, with digital registration being carried out with the T-Scan and Medit i500 systems, and the conventional one—with articulating paper. The R software environment (version 4.2.2, R Core Team, 2022) was employed to carry out the statistical analysis and produce the graphical visualizations. The methods used were: descriptive statistics, stacked paired t-test to test the presence of a statistically significant difference in the mean values of overlap, with the adopted significance level being α=0.05; two-way and three-way analysis of variance (two-way ANOVA); Fisher's post-hoc analysis; graphical analysis for data visualization. Results: The 40μm articulating paper established more common contacts than the digital devices. The three-way ANOVA analysis, used to compare the applied methods, reported good overlap, with statistically significant differences found only in the colors of the occlusal coating at 95% confidence interval, which gives us reason to conclude that there is no difference between the methods used, confirming the reliability of the new device. Conclusion: Despite the remarkable evolution of digital dentistry, still no single flawless occlusal analysis method exists. Both conventional and digital systems have their advantages and disadvantages, and the clinician must use them in a complementary manner for accurate analysis.

Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the forward translation of the maxillary base in adults undergoing 3D-guided midpalatal piezocorticotomy-assisted Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE). Furthermore, the research investigated the contributing factors for forward maxillary movement and the subsequent immediate shift of the mandible. Methods: In this retrospective quasi-experimental study, cephalometric records of 80 adult patients (mean age 35.23 ± 8.76 years; 52 females, 28 males) were analyzed. Maxillary translation was assessed via SNA and A-Nperp(FH), while intermaxillary changes were measured using the ANB angle. Vertical and rotational changes were tracked through SN-MP, FH-MP, and various occlusal plane angles (OcP-FH, OcP-SN, OcP-GoMe). Facial height dimensions (TAFH, UAFH, LAFH, PFH) and dento-alveolar positions (U1-MP, U1LENGTH) were also recorded. Results: Following intervention, significant increases were observed in SNA (0.96°; 95% CI [0.48, 1.43]), ANB (1.42°; 95% CI [1.04, 1.80]), and A-Nperp(FH) (0.81 mm; 95% CI [0.24, 1.39]). The SN-GoMe angle increased by 0.98° and Posterior Facial Height (PFH) increased by 1.57 mm, while upper incisor length (U1LENGTH) significantly decreased by 0.71 mm. Conclusions: 3D-Guided midpalatal Piezocoroticotomy Assisted MARPE in adults is associated with the increase in SNA, ANB, SN-GoMe, Posterior Facial Height, A-Nperp(FH), and decrease in the maxillary incisor length. The amount of anterior midpalatal separation is not associated with the SNA increase while the latter is associated with the inclination of the maxillary plane (SN-MP).

Abstract: Background: Stunting is associated with impaired immune function and increased susceptibility to oral dysbiosis; however, microbiome-targeted interventions in this population remain underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of adjunctive xylitol therapy following scaling and root planing (SRP) on clinical parameters and salivary microbiota in children with stunted growth. Methods: Eighteen participants were allocated into two groups: SRP alone (n = 9) and SRP with xylitol gum (n = 9). Gingival Index (GI) and Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHI-S) were assessed at baseline and 14 days post-intervention. The salivary microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing, encompassing taxonomic composition, alpha and beta diversity, and correlation network analysis. Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in GI, while OHI-S improved significantly only in the SRP + xylitol group. Microbiota analysis demonstrated an increase in Firmicutes and Proteobacteria and a decrease in Bacteroidota, particularly in the xylitol group. At the genus level, Lautropia increased, whereas periodontopathogenic species, including Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola, decreased. Alpha diversity (Shannon and Simpson indices) and beta diversity (UniFrac and PCA) showed no significant changes, indicating preservation of overall microbial structure. Correlation analysis revealed synergistic interactions among commensal taxa and antagonistic relationships with pathogenic groups. Conclusions: Adjunctive xylitol therapy improves clinical outcomes and induces targeted microbiome modulation without disrupting overall diversity, supporting ecological rebalancing as a potential mechanism for microbiome-based interventions in stunted children.

Abstract:

Dental implant therapy demonstrates high long-term survival; however, biological, behavioral, and technical complications remain prevalent. The objective of this study was to introduce GF-Predictability for Dental Implants (GF-PreDImp), the first multidomain predictive tool in the literature, designed to quantify implant success predictability through a structured, evidence-based scoring system. The model integrates six domains: Biological, Behavioral, Hard tissue, Soft tissue, Implant, and Prosthetic, approaching systemic, behavioral, anatomical, surgical, and prosthetic variables into a 100-point composite index. The Biological/Systemic point (20 points) involves diabetes (HbA1c), bisphosphonates, head and neck radiation, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and immunosuppression; the Behavioral/External topic (20 points) approaches post-implant smoking, oral hygiene, plaque/calculus index, brushing performance, alcohol usage, and patient’s compliance; the Hard Tissue (20 points) analyzed bone quality (densities: D1–D4), bone quantity, arch position, guided-bone regeneration (GBR) need, sinus lift, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) height/width; the Soft Tissue evolution (15 points) observes keratinized mucosa width (KMW), periodontal history, gingival phenotype, bleeding on probing (BoP), and probing depth (PD); the Implant Parameters topic (15 points) assessed tooth position, loading timing, primary stability (ISQ), length/diameter, and surface treatment; and the last point analyzed, Prosthetic/Surgical (10 points), appraisal bruxism characteristic, occlusal contacts, crown-to-implant ratio, cantilever, surgeon experience, and antibiotic protocol. The final GF-PreDImp score could be excellent (≥ 85), good (70 – 84), moderate to guarded (55-69), guarded to high risk (40-54), and poor (<40). Results: Predictors were derived from literature on implant failure, peri-implant disease, and risk assessment. The tool generates dynamic visual outputs, including radar charts and domain-specific scores, enabling real-time clinical interpretation. Each domain can achieve up to 100%, and the average results predict the predictability of dental implant therapy. The final screen of the GF-PreDImp outcome presents a summary of the worst areas to clarify possible risks for clinicians and patients. The graphic and result can be printed for electronic filing and/or shown and given to the patient. The GF-PreDImp system can provide a comprehensive framework for individualized risk stratification and treatment optimization. Its implementation can improve clinical decision-making and enhance long-term implant outcomes. Further clinical assessments must be done to confirm the findings in future studies.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: The quality of intraoral scanner-derived digital models depends not only on deviation-based accuracy, but also on how scanned surfaces are reconstructed into a polygonal mesh. The aim of this prospective within-subject observational study was to evaluate whether tooth morphology influences local mesh density distribution in intraoral scanner-derived STL models of selected maxillary teeth. Methods: Twenty participants underwent maxillary intraoral scanning using a Medit i900 wired intraoral scanner under standardized clinical conditions. For each participant, the buccal surfaces of the maxillary right central incisor (11), canine (13), first premolar (15), and first molar (16) were selected as regions of interest. Surface area (A), number of vertices (V), and number of faces (F) were recorded, and the surface-normalized mesh density parameters vertices per unit area (V/A) and faces per unit area (F/A) were calculated. Comparisons among tooth types were performed using repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Bonferroni post hoc correction. Results: Significant differences were found among tooth types for both V/A and F/A (p < 0.001). Mean V/A values were 18.2 ± 1.9 for tooth 11, 19.8 ± 1.4 for tooth 13, 23.8 ± 1.7 for tooth 15, and 22.9 ± 2.0 vertices/mm² for tooth 16. Mean F/A values were 34.3 ± 3.6, 37.5 ± 2.7, 44.4 ± 3.3, and 42.9 ± 3.8 faces/mm², respectively. Post hoc comparisons showed significant differences between teeth 11 and 13, 11 and 15, 11 and 16, 13 and 15, and 13 and 16, whereas no significant difference was observed between teeth 15 and 16. Conclusions: Tooth morphology significantly influenced local mesh density distribution in intraoral scanner-derived STL models of selected maxillary teeth. These findings suggest that local anatomical form affects STL mesh reconstruction under standardized in vivo scanning conditions and support local mesh density analysis as a useful complementary approach to conventional deviation-based digital assessment.

Abstract: Background: Surgical removal of jaw cysts results in bone defects that may compromise regeneration. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been proposed as a minimally invasive adjunct capable of influencing osteogenic activity, but translational evidence using freshly harvested human jawbone tissue remains limited. Objective: To evaluate the effects of intraoperative PBM on osteogenic differentiation and cellular viability in human jaw bone explants obtained during cystectomy. Materials and Methods: This paired translational ex vivo experimental study enrolled 40 patients undergoing surgical treatment for medium to large cystic lesions of the maxilla or mandible. From each patient, paired bone explants were harvested intraoperatively, with one explant exposed to diode PBM and the other serving as a control. Explants were cultured under standardized conditions and assessed using morphometric analysis, immunofluorescence staining for alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) and osteocalcin (OCN), confocal microscopy, and quantitative live/dead viability assays. Viable osteogenic cultures suitable for paired analysis were obtained in 34 patients and constituted the final analytic cohort. Results: PBM-treated explants showed higher numbers of osteoblast-like cellular structures and greater osteogenic surface area occupancy than paired controls. Immunofluorescence demonstrated increased ALPL and OCN expression in laser-treated samples. Quantitative viability analysis showed comparable cell survival between groups, with no evidence of laser-induced cytotoxicity. Inter-individual variability in osteogenic response was observed. Conclusions: In this exploratory paired ex vivo model, intraoperative PBM was associated with enhanced osteogenic activity in human jaw bone explants. These findings are limited to surrogate cellular outcomes and require confirmation through studies incorporating quantitative mineralization and clinical healing parameters.

Abstract: Aim: Accurate detection of residual root canal filling after retreatment is essential for comparing protocols. This in vitro study compares cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and digital microscopy (DGM) with micro computed tomography (micro CT) as the reference standard. Fifteen extracted single rooted mandibular premolars were instrumented and obturated with gutta percha and a calcium silicate based sealer. ProTaper Universal Retreatment files were used for retreatment. Residual material in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds was assessed using CBCT (voxel size 0.10 mm), micro CT (60 µm), and DGM on the split-root surface. Volumetric percentages (CBCT, micro CT) and surface percentages (DGM) were analyzed separately. Diagnostic performance was evaluated using binary detection (presence/absence) based on an ordinal scoring system. DGM had a low median residual surface percentage (0.34–1.52%). CBCT yielded higher median residual volume percentages than did micro CT for all thirds. For example, after Bonferroni correction, 13.10% (CBCT) and 3.27% (micro CT) of the middle thirds presented discordance, with *p* = 0.002. In binary detection, CBCT showed high sensitivity (57.1–100%) but low specificity (25.0–50%), leading to frequent false positives. DGM had 100% specificity in all thirds, but its sensitivity was very low in the coronal (14.3%) and middle (0.0%) thirds. Its perfect apical score (100%) may be spurious due to the small sample size. Within study limitations, micro CT remains the most reliable laboratory reference. CBCT produced higher volume estimates than micro CT, which is consistent with blooming and partial volume artifacts. DGM is highly specific but cannot detect subsurface remnants. Neither method should be used interchangeably with micro CT for volumetric quantification.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Children who experience high levels of dental anxiety often show poor cooperation during dental visits, which compromises treatment outcomes and which leads to a vicious cycle with poor outcomes for oral health and caries prevention. The purpose of this study is to analyse the prevalence of dental anxiety in a sample of clinical subjects in children, and to examine possible correlations with other factors as well as the longitudinal nature of anxiety. Methods: This cross-sectional and longitudinal part study was conducted on a sample of 150 children aged 12 to 18 years in the city of Zagreb and Zagreb County. The MDAS (Modified Dental Anxiety Scale) scale was used to collect data related to dental anxiety at three-time intervals; before the procedure (T1), after the procedure (T2) and after a period of 3 months (T3). Results. Significant differences between the MDAS before and after the procedure were found, in the sense that dental anxiety decreased in the majority of children (p< 0.001). The MDAS test result was 9.79 for the T1 period, and 8.03 for the T2 period, which belongs to the mild anxiety group. There are statistically significant differences between individual time points T1, T2, T3 (p< 0.001), and these differences are significant between T1 and T2 (p=0.045), and T1 and T3 (p=0.012), while between T2 and T3 the differences are not statistically significant (p=0.616). At T1, most children had mild dental anxiety (55.3%), moderate (41.3%) and severe dental anxiety (3.3%). At T2, most children had mild dental anxiety (77.2%) and moderate (22.8%), with no severe dental anxiety. Financial impact on dental service use was statistically associat-ed with dental anxiety at T1 (p=0.015), and at T1-T2 period (p=0.032). The long period since the last visit to the dentist also showed significance for T1 (p=0.003) and T2 (p=0.014). The "urgent pain" showed a statistical correlation with the period T2-T1 (p=0.023). The greatest decrease in the dental anxiety scale T2-T1 was in subjects who had a doctorate/master's degree in their family, high income in family, regular dental check-ups within 3 months, brushing their teeth several times a day for over 2 minutes with horizontal brushing tech-nique, use of dental floss and fluoridated toothpaste, no active caries lesions, no bad habits, and use of drinking water and rarely eating sweets. Conclusions: Most of the children in this study have mild to moderate anxiety, and it de-creases after the therapeutic procedure. Increased dental anxiety is associated with urgent dental procedures/urgent pain and irregular check-ups that are longer than 3 months. Bet-ter oral hygiene and oral status, higher socioeconomic status, and a low cariogenic diet in-fluence the level of dental anxiety among children.

Abstract: Dental implant rehabilitation has become the first-line treatment option for dentition defect and edentulism, and the transmucosal area is the core region affecting the long-term stability of implant rehabilitation. Previous research in this field has been mostly limited to a single histological or structural perspective. This paper innovatively proposes the concept of the Transmucosal Biological Complex (TBC), which integrates implant components (implant neck, abutment, and transmucosal part of the restoration) above the bone level and below the gingival margin with the surrounding hard and soft tissues as an integrated research object. By comprehensively reviewing the latest literature in the field of dental implantation, this paper expounds the composition system of the TBC, and systematically explores its key influencing factors, including implant neck design, type and stability of the implant-abutment connection, transmucosal materials of abutments/restorations, peri-implant soft tissue phenotype, and transmucosal design of the superstructure. For each influencing factor, the paper objectively clarifies its mechanism of action on the peri-implant marginal bone and soft tissues, and details its clinical advantages, application limitations, and existing research controversies in the field. This study aims to provide in-depth reference and guidance for clinical decision-making, technical application and scientific research in dental implantation, and to help improve the long-term clinical outcomes of implant rehabilitation and patients' quality of life.

Abstract: Background: Despite the achievements of psycho-oncology, the number of studies devoted to the psycho-emotional characteristics of the course of oncological diseases remains limited, especially with regard to the dynamics of psycho-emotional changes at different stages of the treatment and rehabilitation process and their connection with the localization of neoplasms and the degree of functional and aesthetic disorders. In this context, this problem is relevant and requires further comprehensive research. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the dynamics of the psychoemotional state of patients with tumor diseases of the maxillofacial region at different stages of treatment and rehabilitation, as well as to determine its dependence on tumor localization, the severity of anatomical, functional, and aesthetic disorders, and their influence on the treatment and rehabilitation process.. Methods: We examined 85 patients with oncological lesions of the maxillofacial region. To assess their psychoemotional state, we used a modified anxiety and depression assessment scale and an integral psychoemotional index (IPEI) at the time of hospitalization, in the preoperative and postoperative periods. The results were evaluated using statistical methods. Results: The most pronounced psychoemotional disorders were detected at hospitalization: anxiety – 12.4 points, depression – 10.8 points, IPEI – 2.31 points. In the preoperative stage, these indicators decreased significantly to 10.6, 9.1, and 1.87 points, respectively (p &lt; 0.05). The lowest values were recorded after surgical treatment: anxiety level – 7.3 points, depression level – 6.2 points, IPEI – 1.28 points (p &lt; 0.01). A statistically significant dependence on tumor localization was found: the highest IPEI values were observed in patients with lesions of the nasal cavity and maxillary sinus (2.61 units), intermediate values – in lesions of the upper jaw and alveolar process (1.93 units), and the lowest in lesions of the hard and soft palate (1.42 units) (p &lt; 0.01). The indicated levels of anxiety and depression were significantly higher in women and younger patients. Conclusions: Patients with oncological lesions of the maxillofacial region showed a significant decrease in anxiety and depression levels on the HADS scale, starting from the stage of hospitalization to the postoperative rehabilitation period.

Abstract: Critical-sized bone defects represent a major clinical challenge, as bone gaps of this magnitude are unable to heal spontaneously without regenerative intervention. The present study aimed to evaluate the dose-dependent osteoinductive effect of rhBMP-2–loaded β-TCP scaffolds on bone regeneration in critical-sized calvarial defects in a rabbit model. Eighteen adult male New Zealand White rabbits were used, and four circular defects (5 mm in diameter) were surgically created in the calvaria of each animal, resulting in a total of 72 defects. The animals were divided into four groups: control, β-TCP + 5 μg rhBMP-2, β-TCP + 10 μg rhBMP-2, and β-TCP + 20 μg rhBMP-2. Bone healing was evaluated at 2, 4, and 8 weeks postoperatively using histological and histomorphometric analyses. Masson’s trichrome staining was performed to assess collagen deposition and maturation, while CD31 immunohistochemical staining was used to evaluate vascularization. The results demonstrated rhBMP-2–loaded β-TCP scaffolds significantly enhanced bone regeneration in a dose-dependent manner, with the β-TCP + 20 μg rhBMP-2 group demonstrating the greatest new bone formation and more mature bone architecture. In addition, BMP-2 treatment promoted osteoblastic activity, improved collagen maturation, and increased vascularization within the defect area. These findings indicate that rhBMP-2–loaded β-TCP scaffolds enhance bone regeneration in a dose-dependent manner, with higher rhBMP-2 doses resulting in greater bone formation and more mature bone architecture.

Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into dental diagnostics, treatment planning, documentation, and research. While ethical principles such as transparency and accountability are widely discussed, there is limited synthesis of how informed consent should be conceptualized and operationalized within the evolving dentist–patient–AI relationship. This scoping review aimed to map existing evidence on informed consent in AI-augmented dentistry and dental research, identify conceptual and practical gaps, and propose a structured framework to support ethically robust implementation; Methods: PRISMA-ScR guidelines was followed with review question formulated using the Population–Concept–Context (PCC) framework. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and ClinicalKey, complemented by grey literature screening; Results: From 2624 identified records, 30 studies were included after screening. The literature consistently emphasized disclosure of AI involvement, clarification of clinician accountability, communication of algorithmic limitations and bias, and separation between clinical and research consent. Based on thematic synthesis, we propose the ACCOUNT-AI framework, comprising structured domains addressing AI role clarification, clinician accountability, contextual differentiation, operational risks, secondary data governance, adaptive consent design, and transparency across the AI lifecycle. The framework integrates clinical use, research applications, and regulated data reuse as components of a unified accountability model; Conclusions: Informed consent in AI-augmented dentistry requires adaptation from traditional bilateral models to a triadic dentist–patient–AI framework grounded in human professional accountability. Standardized, context-sensitive consent structures are needed to ensure transparency, protect patient autonomy, and support ethically responsible AI integration in both clinical care and research.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: Harmony between tooth morphology and facial features is a key factor in aesthetic dentistry. The sufficient smile design requires the integration of functional, biological aspects, individual identity and personality traits. The present study investigated the relationship between the shape of teeth and personality characteristics. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 142 participants. Data were collected through a standardized questionnaire, including demographic indicators, assessment of the shape of the teeth and personality characteristics according to two models: type 1 (choleric, sanguine, melancholic, phlegmatic) and type 2 (extraversion, openness, conscientiousness, focus on others, neuroticism). Pearson’s χ² test and Cramer’s coefficient (V) were applied to analyze the dependencies. Results: A statistically significant relationship was found between tooth shape and personality type 1 (χ²(9)=61.96, p<0.001; V=0.38), with a medium to strong effect. The oval shape was associated mainly with melancholic temperament, the triangular shape with sanguine, the rectangular shape with choleric, and the square shape with melancholic and phlegmatic types. A significant relationship was also observed between tooth shape and personality type 2 (χ²(12)=41.82, p<0.001; V=0.31), with a medium effect, with the different morphological shapes showing specific distribution profiles according to personality traits. No statistically significant relationship was found between the two personality models (χ²(12)=18.10, p=0.113). Conclusions: The shape of the frontal teeth is associated with temperament-based and trait-oriented personality characteristics, with the relationship being stronger in the classical temperament typology. This supports the hypothesis that dental morphology may reflect biologically determined aspects of personality and be relevant to individualized aesthetic dental design.

Abstract: Background: Early Childhood Caries (ECC) remains a pervasive global health challenge. Historically managed through aggressive mechanical excavation, contemporary pediatric dentistry has evolved toward biologically driven, minimally invasive therapies. This study aims to critically compare the most recent clinical practice guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD 2024), the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (EAPD 2022), and the International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD 2026) regarding the management of deep carious lesions in primary molars. Methods: A comparative critical review was conducted focusing on four core clinical variables: caries removal strategies, direct pulp capping (DPC) utility, pulpotomy medicaments, and the implementation of the Hall Technique (HT). Data were systematically extracted and synthesized to establish points of global consensus and therapeutic divergence. Results: A definitive paradigm shift toward conservative management was identified across all organizations. There is unanimous consensus strongly recommending Selective Caries Removal (SCR) as the gold standard over complete excavation to minimize iatrogenic pulp exposure. For vital pulpotomies, Calcium Silicate Cements (CSCs), particularly Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA), have categorically superseded traditional fixatives like formocresol due to superior biocompatibility and success rates. Furthermore, the Hall Technique is highly endorsed, predominantly by the EAPD and IAPD, as a definitive, cost-effective biological intervention. Conversely, Direct Pulp Capping remains cautiously restricted due to low success predictability.Conclusions: The synthesis of the AAPD, EAPD, and IAPD guidelines confirms a global convergence on minimally invasive dentistry. Given the inherent unreliability of traditional pulpal diagnostics in pediatric patients, clinicians are strongly urged to prioritize pulp vitality through SCR, HT, and CSC-based therapies, establishing a unified biological approach to deep caries management.

Abstract: Background: Helicobacter pylori is a well-established risk factor for gastric carcinogenesis. Increasing evidence suggests that the oral cavity may serve as an extragastric reservoir for the bacterium, potentially contributing to persistent infection and reinfection. Orthodontic appliances can modify oral biofilm ecology and may facilitate bacterial colonization. This study aimed to investigate the association between oral H. pylori colonization and gastric cancer, while exploring the potential modifying role of fixed orthodontic appliances. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional observational study, 212 participants were recruited from gastroenterology and dental clinics between January 2023 and March 2025. Oral samples were collected and analyzed for H. pylori DNA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Gastric diagnoses were established through endoscopic examination and histopathological evaluation, classifying participants into gastric cancer, precancerous gastric lesions, non-atrophic gastritis, and control groups. Demographic, clinical, and oral health variables were recorded. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between oral H. pylori detection and gastric cancer while adjusting for potential confounders, including age, sex, smoking status, oral hygiene indicators, and socioeconomic factors. Results: Oral H. pylori DNA was detected more frequently in participants with gastric cancer compared with controls. After adjustment for potential confounders, the presence of oral H. pylori was significantly associated with increased odds of gastric cancer. Interaction analysis suggested that individuals with fixed orthodontic appliances demonstrated higher rates of oral H. pylori detection, supporting the hypothesis that orthodontic biofilm retention may facilitate bacterial persistence within the oral cavity. Conclusions: Our findings support the concept of an oral–gastric microbial axis in H. pylori–associated disease and suggest that the oral cavity may represent a potential reservoir contributing to gastric infection dynamics. The presence of orthodontic appliances may influence oral microbial ecology and could play a role in sustaining H. pylori colonization. These results highlight the importance of interdisciplinary approaches integrating dentistry and gastroenterology in the understanding and management of H. pylori infection and gastric cancer risk.

Abstract: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease driven by microbial dysbiosis and an exacerbated host immune response, leading to progressive periodontal tissue breakdown and contributing to systemic inflammation. Although scaling and root planing remains the standard treatment, its capacity to fully restore immune balance and host–microbiota homeostasis is limited. In this context, probiotics have emerged as promising adjunctive strategies capable of modulating immunological and metabolic pathways involved in disease progression. This narrative review aimed to evaluate current evidence regarding the use of probiotics in periodontal therapy. The review followed the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles (SANRA) guidelines. A literature search was conducted in MEDLINE via PubMed for manuscripts indexed up to January 2026 using MeSH-based terms related to periodontitis and probiotics. Evidence from preclinical and clinical studies suggests that probiotics may reduce alveolar bone loss and periodontal inflammation by downregulating proinflammatory mediators, enhancing anti-inflammatory cytokine production, strengthening epithelial barrier function, and modulating innate and adaptive immune responses. Additionally, probiotics may exert systemic effects through interactions with the gut microbiota, potentially improving metabolic regulation and reducing systemic inflammation. Overall, current evidence supports probiotics as biologically plausible adjuncts to periodontal therapy.

Abstract: (Background/Objectives): This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of an ultrasound-guided infiltration method with hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids in the treatment of Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD). (Methods): Twenty-eight patients (16 females and 12 males), aged between 25 and 55 years, with TMD and evidence of retrodiscal tissue hyperemia on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) were enrolled. Before treatment, the intensity of preauricular pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the presence of associated symptoms such as tinnitus, vertigo, headache, and joint clicking was recorded. After the creation of individualized interocclusal devices, a bilateral ultrasound-guided infiltration of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid and corticosteroid was performed. (Results): Immediately after treatment, joint clicking disappeared in 80% of patients. Follow-up assessments at 30, 60, and 90 days, supported by control ultrasound, showed a substantial and statistically significant (p < 0.001) improvement in pain symptoms. (Conclusions): The ultrasound-guided infiltration technique proved to be a valid short-term therapeutic option for patients with TMD and inflammation of the retrodiscal tissue. A larger sample size and long-term follow-up are necessary to confirm these preliminary results.

Abstract: Background:Transcrestal maxillary sinus floor elevation (TSFE) is a key technique for posterior maxillary bone deficiency in implantology, with sinus membrane perforation as the main complication. Accurate risk assessment is critical for improving surgical success and implant survival rates. Findings:TSFE surgical risk is determined by six core factors: bone defect type, elevation height, sinus floor morphology, sinus membrane status, ostium patency, and immediate implant placement. Surgical difficulty can be stratified into Easy/Moderate/Difficult, with matching technical strategies to reduce risks. Conclusions: and RelevanceMultidimensional risk stratification and targeted technique selection effectively control TSFE risks. Surgeons with lateral window technique experience are recommended for TSFE, and multidisciplinary collaboration is advised for high-difficulty cases, providing precise guidance for clinical implant practice.