Randomized Clinical Study of the Use of MTA and Biodentine™ for Pulpotomy in Primary Teeth

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify, through clinical and radiographic evaluations, the in vivo response of the dentin-pulpal complex of human primary teeth after pulpotomy with MTA and Biodentine™ in a follow-up period of 3, 6, and 12 months. Material and Methods: Thirty teeth were divided into MTA pulpotomy (n = 15) and Biodentine™ pulpotomy (n = 15) from children between 5 and 9 years of age, a randomized clinical trial with simple random sampling. The materials were inserted into the cavity after opening and removing the coronary pulp tissue. The cavity base consisted of glass ionomer cement and light-cured composite resin restoration. Clinical and radiographic analyses were performed after 3, 6, and 12 months. Statistical analysis by Fisher's exact test for dichotomous data at a 5% significance level was utilized. Results: Both materials caused color change after 12 months. However, MTA showed a higher percentage than Biodentine™ (p<0.0001). Pain was detected only with Biodentine™ at six months and mobility at 12 months (p=0.0013). Radiographically, after 12 months, periapical lesions, interradicular lesions, and internal resorption were evidenced in 13% of the cases for Biodentine™-treated teeth (p<0.0013). MTA induced pulp calcification in 13% of cases, unlike Biodentine™ (p<0.0013). Conclusion: BiodentineTM and MTA are suitable for clinical use in pulpotomy treatment, yet both materials lead to tooth discoloration.

Pulpectomies with Iodoform Versus Calcium Hydroxide-Based Paste: A Preliminary Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare clinical and radiographical pulpectomy outcomes in primary teeth filled with different pastes. Material and Methods: The sample included thirty-eight teeth indicated for pulpectomy due to irreversible pulp inflammation or necrosis from thirty patients (2 to 9 years old). The first appointment comprised chemomechanical preparation (2.5% sodium hypochlorite), smear layer removal (6% citric acid), intracanal dressing and temporary restoration. Seven days later, teeth were randomly assigned to filling with iodoform (IP) or calcium hydroxide with zinc oxide (CHZO) based pastes and temporarily restored. Final restoration (composite resin) occurred at the 3rd appointment. Data from baseline, 6 and 12 months were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (p≤0.05). Results: The overall frequency of success was 63.6% (n=21), with no significant difference between groups (IP=62.5% n=10; CHZO=64.7% n=11, p=0.59). Multiradicular teeth, overfilled canals and teeth whose coronal restoration have been lost were significantly associated with failure (p=0.01, p=0.04 and p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: After 12 months, both pastes showed similar outcomes and can be used as good options for pulpectomies in primary teeth. Moreover, tooth location, extent of the root canal filling, and integrity of final restoration during the follow-up influenced the outcome of pulpectomies.

Clinical and Radiographic Success Rates of Pulpotomies in Primary Molars Treated with Formocresol, BiodentineTM, and Endo Repair: A Randomized Clinical Trial

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the clinical and radiographic success rates of formocresol, BiodentineTM, and Endo Repair agents in primary molars after 12 months. Material and Methods: This randomized double-blind clinical trial was conducted on healthy children referred to the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Kerman, Iran, in 2018. One hundred twenty children (human primary molar teeth) aged 3-9 years were selected and randomly divided into three interventions (with pulpotomy medicament agents), including formocresol, BiodentineTM, and Endo Repair. All pulpotomized teeth were restored using stainless steel crowns and evaluated clinically and radiographically during a 12-month follow-up. Fisher exact test was used to determine the association of categorical variables and the data were analysed with SPSS 25. Results: All the available teeth in formocresol and BiodentineTM groups obtained clinical success, whereas 62.5% of the Endo Repair group was successful in this regard. Radiographic success rates of the formocresol, BiodentineTM, and Endo Repair groups were 94.7%, 70%, and 28.1% after a 12-month follow-up, respectively. Moreover, pulp canal obliteration was observed in 26.3%, 25%, and 12.5% of the formocresol, BiodentineTM, and Endo Repair groups. Conclusion: This study reported a high rate of clinical success using both BiodentineTM and formocresol pulpotomy techniques. However, the radiographic success rate of formocresol was higher than that of BiodentineTM, and Endo Repair was not considered a suitable pulpotomy medicament agent.

In Vivo Detection of External Apical Root Resorption Induced by Apical Periodontitis Using Periapical Radiography and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Abstract Objective: To compare the accuracy of periapical radiography (PR) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for the detection of external apical root resorption (EARR) due to root canal contamination. Material and Methods: Dog's teeth with experimentally induced root resorption due to root canal contamination underwent or not root canal treatment (n=62). True positives (TP), false positives (FP), true negatives (TN), and false negatives (FN) in PR and CBCT diagnoses were determined using histopathologic findings as the gold standard. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and diagnostic accuracy (TP + TN) in the diagnosis of EARR were calculated. Data were compared using chi-squared test (α=0.05). Results: EARR was detected in 35% of roots by PR, in 47% by CBCT, and in 50% of the roots by microscopy (p=0.03 PR versus microscopy; p=0.67 CBCT versus microscopy). Overall, CBCT produced more accurate diagnoses than PR (p=0.008). PR and CBCT allowed the identification of large resorption in 100% of the cases and showed the same accuracy. However, for small resorptions, PR showed an accuracy of 0.83, whereas CBCT showed an accuracy of 0.96 (p=0.003). Conclusion: Cone-beam computed tomography showed higher accuracy in detecting external apical root resorption of endodontic origin.

Influência da técnica de preparo sobre o contorno cervical dos laminados cerâmicos: relato de caso / Influence of the preparation technique on the cervical contour of ceramic laminates: a case report / Influencia de la técnica de preparación en el contorno cervical de los laminados cerámicos: reporte del caso

Introdução: Devido à crescente demanda estética, a odontologia restauradora se renova na intenção de alcançar melhores resultados na harmonia do sorriso. Entretanto, a atenção deve voltar-se também aos tecidos periodontais, visto que há uma integração entre material restaurador e os tecidos. Objetivo:Descrever e discutir as etapas clínicas para a confecção de laminados cerâmicos, atentando-se a preparos minimamente invasivos, contorno cervical e fatores que podem intervir na longevidade do procedimento.Relato de caso:Paciente do sexo masculino, 28 anos de idade, compareceu a Associação Brasileira de Odontologia, seção de Alagoas, relatando insatisfação em relação ao tamanho dos seus dentes. Os arcos superior e inferior foram moldados para a obtenção dos modelos de estudo e enceramento diagnóstico. Ao início do tratamento foi orientado ao paciente clareamento dental pela técnica combinada. O preparo dos dentes foi guiado por uma matriz de silicone, sendo estes uniformes e conservadores, seguido de moldagem, fase laboratorial e cimentação final. Finalizado o caso foi realizado o ajuste oclusal solicitando ao paciente que realizasse movimentos de lateralidade e protrusão. Conclusões:A técnica do preparo influência na longevidade dos laminados cerâmicos, por relacioanar-se à adesão e a saúde periodontal. O preparo deve ser mínino e limitado ao esmalte dental sempre que possível, determinando assim um maior e melhor prognóstico (AU).

Introduction:Due to the growing aesthetic demand, restorative dentistry is renewed to achieve better results in smile harmony. However, attention should also be turned to periodontal tissues since there is an integration between restorative material and tissues. Objective:To describe and discuss the clinical steps for the manufacture of laminate veneers, paying attention to minimally invasive preparations, cervical contour, and factors that can intervene in the procedure's longevity. Case report:A 28-year-old male patient attended the Brazilian Dental Association, the Alagoas section, reporting dissatisfaction with his teeth' size. The upper and lower arches were molded to obtain the study and diagnostic waxing models. At the beginning of treatment, the patient was instructed by the combined technique. After the case, the occlusal adjustment was performed, asking the patient to perform laterality and protrusion movements. Conclusions:The preparation technique influences the longevity of laminate veneers due to adherence and periodontal health. The preparation should be minimal and limited to dental enamel whenever possible, thus determining a higher and better prognosis (AU).

Introducción: Debido a la creciente demanda estética, la odontología restauradora se renueva para lograr mejores resultados en la armonía de la sonrisa. Sin embargo, también se debe prestar atención a los tejidos periodontales ya que existe una integraciónentre el material restaurador y los tejidos.Objetivo: Describir y discutir los pasos clínicos para la confección de carillas laminares, prestando atención a las preparaciones mínimamente invasivas, al contorno cervical y a los factores que pueden intervenir en la longevidad del procedimiento.Reporte del caso: Un paciente masculino de 28 años asistió a la Asociación Dental Brasileña, sección de Alagoas, reportando insatisfacción con el tamaño de sus dientes. Los arcos superior e inferior fueron moldeados para obtener los modelos de depilación de estudio y diagnóstico. Al comienzo del tratamiento, el paciente fue instruido por la técnica combinada. La preparación de los dientes fue guiada por una matriz de silicona, siendo estas uniformes y conservadoras, seguidas de moldeo, fase de laboratorio y cementación final. Después del caso, se realizó el ajuste oclusal, pidiendo al paciente que realizara movimientos de lateralidad y protuberancia. Conclusiones: La técnica de preparación influye en la longevidad de los laminados cerámicos, debido a la adherencia y la salud periodontal. La preparación debe ser mínima y limitada al esmalte dental siempre que sea posible, determinando así un pronóstico más alto y mejor (AU).

Evaluation of Sealing Ability of Biodentine to Root-End Cavities Irrigated either with Maleic Acid or Irritrol Using Glucose Filtration Model

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the effect of Maleic acid and Irritrol (combination of Chlorhexidine & Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) irrigation on the sealing ability of Biodentine when used as root-end filling material. Material and Methods: Thirty single-rooted human premolars were subjected to standardized root canal instrumentation and were irrigated with 2.5% Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) after each instrument change. Apical root resections were done by removing 3 mm of the apex at a 90° angle to the long axis of the root with a diamond bur. The root end cavity preparation was done using ultrasonic tips at a low power setting under water coolant. They were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=10). Group 1 was irrigated with 7% Maleic acid, Group 2 was irrigated with Irritrol, and Group 3 was irrigated with 0.9% Saline (Control). Then, the root end cavities of all the samples were restored with Biodentine and were subjected to leakage analysis using a glucose filtration test. The mean values for each group were calculated and the obtained data was statistically analysed using ANOVA with post-hoc Tukey's test, ANOVA with post-hoc Games-Howell test and repeated measures ANOVA with post-hoc Bonferroni test. Results: The specimens irrigated with Irritrol showed least microleakage as compared to 7% Maleic acid and 0.9% Saline. Conclusion: A regimen involving irrigation of the root-end cavity with Irritrol followed by root-end filling with Biodentine can improve the apical seal.

Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus Individuals Carry Different Periodontal Bacteria

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify etiologic microbiota associated periodontal diseases among diabetes patients and the factors related to the most commonly identified bacteria species. Material and Methods: Periodontal plaque samples from 11 diabetic participants and 13 non-diabetic controls were collected to assess their aerobic and anaerobic bacterial growth. Different distinct colonies were identified by microscopic and 16srDNA sequencing. Pearson's chi-square tests were conducted to examine any association between categorical variables. Results: The diabetic subjects revealed a more intense plaque formation with a mean plaque index of 2.4 compared to 1.8 in non-diabetics. A total of 86 bacteria were isolated from 24 plaque samples, 44 were aerobic, and 42 were anaerobic. Only aerobic isolates, 22 from diabetic patients and 22 from non-diabetic patients, were evaluated in these analyses. Bacillus spp. (B. cereus mainly) and Klebsiella spp. (K. pneumoniae, K. aerogenes, K. oxytoca) were detected markedly higher in non-diabetic individuals than in diabetic subjects (p=0.026 and p=0.021, respectively). Some bacteria were only identified in the dental plaque of diabetic individuals, namely, Bacillus mojavensis, Enterobacter cloacae, Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus hominis, Staphylococcus pasteuri, Streptococcus mutans, and Streptococcus pasteurianus. The presence of acid reflux and jaundice were significantly associated with the most common bacterial isolate, namely Bacillus spp., with the p-values of 0.007 and 0.001, respectively. Conclusion: Type-2 diabetes mellitus is associated with a higher amount of dental plaques. Periodontal plaque samples from diabetic and non-diabetic subjects possess differential microbial communities. Diabetic plaques contain more versatile microbes predominated by gram-positive streptococci and staphylococci.

Cephalometric for Orthognathic Surgery (COGS) Analysis for Saudi Population

ABSTRACT Objective: To establish the cephalometric (Ceph.) norm by Ceph. for orthognathic surgery (COGS) analysis for Saudi population. Material and Methods: 500 adult Saudi samples (250 males and 250 females) with the age range of 18-30 years old were selected for this study. The selections of samples were based on a normal occlusal relationship, no history of facial trauma and no previous orthodontic treatment. Lateral Ceph. radiographs were tracing by CASSOS software and analyzed by SPSS software according to COGS analysis. Results: Significant differences were showed between the Saudi males and females on most of the Ceph. parameters. The Saudi males had a convex facial profile with chin prominent and more bimaxillary protrusion, upper and lower lip protrusion than the Saudi females. Conclusion: This study evaluated the craniofacial morphological difference between the male and the female population in Saudi Arabia by using COGS analysis. The finding of this study will help for better diagnosis of orthodontic and orthognathic surgical treatment planning and identify the morphological facial characteristics of Saudi patients.

Qualitative Analysis of Root Canal Treatments performed by Undergraduate Students: A Retrospective Study

ABSTRACT Objective: Toanalyze the technical quality of endodontic treatment carried out at the undergraduate dental clinics. Material and Methods: Random radiographic records of 92 patients' were selected who received endodontic treatment by the undergraduate students from June 2018 to July 2019. The quality of root canal filling was determined in relation to the adequate density, length, and taper. Statistical analysis was performed by using GraphPad (Prism 5), and to determine the association between different variables Chi-square test was used. Results: Adequate technical quality of canal obturation conducted by the undergraduate students was found in less than 65% of the cases. The frequency of adequate root canal taper was significantly greater in maxillary teeth (75%) as compared to mandibular teeth (33%); however, adequacy of acceptable density was found more in maxillary teeth (62%) as compared to mandibular teeth (55%).A statistically significant difference was seen in the quality of root canal fillings between anterior and posterior teeth (p=0.001). Conclusion: The root canal therapy performed by undergraduate students was less than optimum in terms of technical quality. Hence, it is suggested that the endodontic training courses delivered at pre-clinical and clinical levelsfor undergraduate students must be thoroughly revised.

Traumatic Dental Injuries Occurred in Primary Teeth and their Sequel Effects on the Developmental Permanent Successors: A Controlled Study

ABSTRACT Objective: To examine the types of traumatic dental injuries of the primary teeth (TDI-p) and the long-term sequelae on permanent dentition (LSP) comparing with a control group (CG). In addition, a questionnaire that measures parents' knowledge and awareness was used. Material and Methods: The trauma group (TG) consisted of permanent teeth following TDI-p exposed teeth, while the CG consisted of permanent teeth following unexposed teeth with TDI-p of the same patients. In total, 141 teeth were evaluated in 27 patients. Data concerning such as teeth, when TDI-p occurred, types of treatments and types of LSP were collected. Chi-square test was used for intergroup comparison for gender, type of trauma, LSP, age of trauma and parameters in the parental information questionnaire. Significance level was p<0.05. Results: A statistically significant difference was found in the analysis between TG and CG (p<0.001). The prevalence of LSP due to TDI-p was 29.6% and the prevalence of sequelae in CG was 7.4%. The most common LSP was enamel hypoplasia (14.8%). Parents were aware of the importance of TDI-p, and they had insufficient knowledge about its management. Conclusion: TDI-p can be considered a high-risk factor in the development of LSP. Also, the lack of knowledge in parents should be supported by software-based application systems to be developed.

Influence of Isolation Technique on the Survival of Resin-Modified Glass-Ionomer Restorations in Primary Molars: A 9-Months Randomized Controlled Trial

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the survival of occlusal and occlusal-proximal restorations performed with resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (RMGIC) in deciduous molars using rubber dam and cotton rolls isolation. Material and Methods: Ninety-two patients were included and 200 deciduous molars with cavitated occlusal or occlusoproximal dentin caries lesions were randomized into two groups: cotton rolls (n = 100) and rubber dam (n = 100) and RMGIC restorations were placed. At baseline and in the follow-up visit, presence, severity and activity of caries lesions were registered. Two independent, blinded examiners evaluated the treated teeth clinically using the USPHS criteria and radiographically after 9 months. Descriptive analysis, survival curve (log-rank test) and Cox regression were performed to assess risk factors related to failure. Results: Out of the 179 teeth (92 cotton rolls group and 87 rubber dam group) evaluated at 9-month follow-up period. No lesion progression was observed radiographically. The overall treatment success rate was 85.47% (83.47% for cotton rolls and 87.35 rubber dam group). No significant difference between isolation methods was observed in the log-rank test (p = 0.16). Cox regression showed no risk factors related to failure. Conclusion: No difference was found in the survival of occlusal and occlusal-proximal restorations performed with RMGIC in deciduous molars using a rubber dam and cotton rolls isolation after a 9-month follow-up period.

Agreement Between Clinical-Radiographic and Histopathological Diagnoses in Maxillofacial Fibro-Osseous Lesions

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the agreement of clinical and radiographic diagnosis with the histopathological diagnosis in fibro-osseous lesions of the jaws. Material and Methods: An analytical and exploratory study was made based on systematic collected data, carried out in the laboratory of surgical pathology of a public Dental School. There were evaluated cases of fibrous dysplasia (FD), cemento-osseous dysplasia (COD) and ossifyng fibroma (OF), diagnosed by clinical, radiographic (panoramic and periapical radiography), and histopathological analysis, in a period of 12 years (from March 2001 to June 2013). Descriptive and inferential statistics (Fisher's exact test) were obtained. Results: Ninety-six cases of FOLs were evaluated. The radiographic aspects of the FOLs studied did not differ significantly (p=0.09). Radiolucent lesions were the least frequent, corresponding to approximately 13.5% of radiographic findings. Mixed lesions and radiopaques were more present, how they were COD and FD, respectively. The more aggressive variation of OF (Juvenile Ossifying Fibroma - JOF) was less frequent among the pathologies evaluated. In approximately 61.46% of the cases clinical and radiographic diagnosis were confirmed by histopathological diagnosis of FOLs. The highest agreement and the highest disagreement were observed in COD cases (40.7% and 62.2%, respectively). Conclusion: FOLs of the maxillaries represent a group of lesions in which the establishment of the clinical and radiographic diagnosis supported by the histopathological confirmation is critical and challenging.

Ferric Sulfate Versus Calcium-Enriched Mixture Cement in Pulpotomy of Primary Molars: A Randomized Clinical Trial

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the postoperative pain and clinical and radiographic success of pulpotomized primary molars using two materials, Ferric Sulfate (FS) and Calcium-Enriched Mixture (CEM) cement, over a period of 3 and 6 months. Material and Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on a total of 38 teeth selected from 19 patients aged 3-9 years. FS 15.5% and CEM cement were used as pulpotomy agents. Permanent restorations were Stainless Steel Crowns (SSCs) in both groups. Patients were recalled for follow-up at 3 and 6 months intervals for clinical and radiographic assessment. Postoperative pain was recorded by using Visual Analogue Scale up to ten days following the treatment. The data were statistically analyzed using chi-square test and repeated measures ANOVA. Results: At 6 months, a 100% clinical success rate was observed in the FS and CEM cement groups. The radiographic success rate in the FS group was 94.7%, whereas 100% in the CEM cement group at 6 months. No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups (p>0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative pain between the teeth that received either FS or CEM cement as pulpotomy agents following the procedure (p>0.05). Conclusion: There were favorable outcomes of FS and CEM cement in pulpotomy of primary molar teeth.

Agreement Between Working Length Measurements in Primary Teeth Obtained by Radiographs or Apical Locators

Abstract Objective: To perform an in vivo evaluation on the agreement between measurements of working length obtained by conventional radiographic examinations and an apex locator in deciduous teeth with or without root resorption. Material and Methods: Nine canals of teeth from children ranging from 3 to 5 years old were selected. Endodontic access was performed with a spherical diamond tip, the pulp was removed with Kerr-type steel files, and the canal was irrigated with 1% sodium hypochlorite. A file, compatible with the channel gauge, was then used to measure the length of the root canal with the apex locator. Conventional radiographs were also performed and, using a millimeter endodontic ruler, the length of the canal was determined. The differences between the measurements obtained between the two methods were analyzed using the Student's t-test. Results: The mean canal length for conventional radiography was 9.83 mm and 9.67 mm for the apex locator. The results of this study did not show significant differences (p=0.641), independent of the presence or absence of physiological root resorption. Conclusion: The similarity in measurements obtained with X-ray or an apex locator indicates that it is not necessary to use X-rays as a complement to obtain the working length. The use of the apex locator can provide a quicker treatment, reducing the clinical time and stress of the child.

Reliability of Two Methods of Evaluation of the Apical Limit of Obturation of Root Canals of Primary Teeth: A Pilot Study

Abstract Objective: To verify the concordance in the evaluation of the apical limit of obturation (ALO) in filled root canals of primary teeth between digital and visual methods. Material and Methods: Twenty periapical radiographs of endodontically treated primary teeth were digitalized and evaluated by an endodontics specialist (E1), a PhD pediatric dentist (E2), and a MSc general dentist (E3). Calibrated evaluators (Kappa = 1.00) analysed the images in a light-isolated environment two times (D1 and D2) with a one-week interval between evaluations. ALO scores were categorized as overfilled, flush-filled and underfilled. Results: The intra-rater reliability between methods was 0.82 (D1) and 0.75 (D2) for E1, 0.93 (D1 and D2) for E2, and 0.94 (D1 and D2) for E3. Inter-rater reliability ranged from 0.71 (E1 × E3) and 1.00 (E1 × E2) for the visual method to 0.76 (E1 × E3) and 0.88 (E1 × E2) for the digital method. Spearman correlation coefficients showed a similar ranking among the evaluators. There was greater disagreement among the underfilled and ideal scores. For all evaluators, the digital method favoured the identification of the ideal score. Conclusion: Both methods are suitable for the determination of the ALO of filled primary teeth and can be used in clinical practice.

Frequency and Characteristics of Mesiodens in Indian School Children: A Retrospective Radiographic Study

Abstract Objective: To determine the frequency and characteristics of mesiodens in Indian school children. Material and Methods: 1232 radiographs of patients attending the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology of the age group of 4-15 years studied for the present retrospective study. The intraoral periapical radiographs and occlusal radiographs of the premaxilla were examined to determine the presence of mesiodens. The data regarding the presence of mesiodens, number, position, location on the arch, shape and associated complications were recorded. Results: Eleven patients had 14 mesiodens, with a frequency of 0.8%. The ratio of boys to girls was 1.2:1. Maximum mesiodens observed in the age group of 7-9 years. Most of the mesiodens were conical in shape and found on the palatal side. Fifty percent of the mesiodens were unerupted. The majority of patients (57.1%) had vertically positioned mesiodens. Midline diastema was the most common complication due to mesiodens (66.7%). Conclusion: Routine check-up during the primary dentition and mixed dentition stages helps for early detection of mesiodens and thus preventing complications. Early identification is useful for planning comprehensive management, initiating proper consultation and referral for evaluation and treatment.

Prevalence of Peg-Shaped Lateral Incisors in Non-Syndromic Subjects: A Multi-Population Study

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and gender-wise distribution of peg-shaped maxillary permanent lateral incisors among populations in Saudi Arabia representing different geographical locations (Saudi, Jordan, Egypt, Syria, Philippine, Pakistan, India and Bangladesh). Material and Methods: Panoramic radiographs of 9945 patients attending outpatient university dental clinics of College of Dentistry, Jouf University, Saudi Arabia between February 2014 and January 2018 were collected from the archives randomly. Two calibrated investigators examined the data, which were collected from the dental radiology department archives with prior permission from the authorities. The anomalies of maxillary lateral incisors (right and left) were investigated. Results: Among all geographic locations, the prevalence of peg laterals was more in males in comparison to females except in Pakistani and Philippine populations. Among the Saudi population, peg laterals' prevalence was more in case of right lateral incisor than the left incisor. Conclusion: A higher prevalence of peg laterals was found in Saudi. Conclusion: A higher prevalence of peg laterals was found in Saudi region, followed by Egypt. Among all geographic locations, the prevalence of peg laterals was higher in males than females except for Pakistan and Philippines populations. Among Saudi population prevalence of peg laterals was found to be higher in case of right lateral incisor when compared to the left.

Ricketts Cephalometric Analysis for Saudi Population

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the cephalometric norm for Saudi sample by Ricketts analysis (RA). Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, cephalometric radiographs were taken for 500 samples. The subjects included 250 males and 250 females. The ages of the subjects ranged from 18-30years. The criteria of selection were based on Class I incisor relationship, no skeletal abnormality and no previous orthodontic treatment. Lateral cephalometric radiographs were taken, traced and digitized by SPSS software, according to RA. An independent t-test was used to test the level of significance between genders. Results: Significant disparities found between Saudi males and females in dental and soft tissue measurements. The result showed that the distal position of the maxillary first molar to pterygoid vertical plane (U6 to Ptv) measurement was highly significantly greater (p<0.001) in Saudi males than females. Lower incisor to A-Pog (L1 to A-Pog) and lower lip to E plane was significantly longer (p<0.05) in Saudi males than females. Other measurements had no significant difference between Saudi males and females. Conclusion: The craniofacial morphology of the Saudi males was different from Saudi females using Ricketts analysis. This study will help the clinicians to diagnosis and treatment planning of orthodontic and orthognathic patients.

Clinical Evaluation of Ghana Shyams TEFF (Telescopically Expanding Fixed Functional) Space Maintainer Versus Conventional Band and Loop Space Maintainer

Abstract Objective: To compare the clinical efficacy of Ghana Shyam's TEFF space maintainer with band and loop space maintainer. Material and Methods: This split-mouth randomized clinical trial was conducted on 20 children (7-9 years), requiring bilateral/contralateral space maintenance therapy. After consent, all the selected children received both space maintainers and were followed up periodically every six months up to two years for clinical assessment according to the evaluation protocol. Instructions and motivation were given to the children. OHI (S) index was recorded before cementation of appliances. The following aspects were analyzed: 1) efficiency and function; 2) dislodgement due to cement loss; 3) breakage at soldered parts; 4) carious or gingival inflammation affecting abutment teeth; 5) distortion of band; 6) being embedded in gingival tissues / gingival slopping; and 7) initial and final S-OHIS scores. Statistical analysis was done using Fisher exact test for survival time and Chi-square test for chewing efficiency. Results: At 24th-month follow-up, 14 Ghana Shyam's TEFF space maintainers and 16 band and loop space maintainers were found to be intact. Conclusion: As both space maintainers demonstrated similar mean survival time Ghana Shyam's TEFF space maintainer with the added advantage of being functional can be recommended as an effective alternative to band and loop in premature loss of primary molar clinical situations.

Clinical Comparison of Eggshell Derived Calcium Hydroxyapatite with Dycal® as Indirect Pulp Capping Agents in Primary Molars

Abstract Objective: To evaluate and compare the efficacy of eggshell derived calcium hydroxyapatite with Dycal® as indirect pulp capping material in primary molars. Material and Methods: A total of 32 carious primary molars from 22 children (6-10-years) were screened, of which 26 primary molars meeting inclusion criteria were selected and equally divided into two groups. At the first appointment, the infected dentin was excavated using a spoon excavator after treating the carious part with Carie-Care™ chemomechanical caries removal agent. After this, eggshell derived calcium hydroxyapatite in Group 1 and Dycal® in Group 2 were used as liners followed by restoration of the cavity with type IX glass ionomer cement. Clinical assessment for pain and radiographic assessment for measurement of the amount of reparative dentin thickness formation was performed at baseline, 8 weeks and 3 months. The data were subjected to statistical analysis by one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: Higher mean reparative dentin formation was found in eggshell derived calcium hydroxyapatite group than Dycal® group at the end of 8 weeks and 3 months and the difference was significant statistically (p<0.001). Conclusion: Eggshell derived calcium hydroxyapatite seems to be a suitable alternative to Dycal® (calcium hydroxide) that can be used as a liner for indirect pulp capping in primary molars.