The Future of Orthodontics: Deep Learning Technologies.

Deep learning has emerged as a revolutionary technical advancement in modern orthodontics, offering novel methods for diagnosis, treatment planning, and outcome prediction. Over the past 25 years, the field of dentistry has widely adopted information technology (IT), resulting in several benefits, including decreased expenses, increased efficiency, decreased need for human expertise, and reduced errors. The transition from preset rules to learning from real-world examples, particularly machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI), has greatly benefited the organization, analysis, and storage of medical data. Deep learning, a type of AI, enables robots to mimic human neural networks, allowing them to learn and make decisions independently without the need for explicit programming. Its ability to automate cephalometric analysis and enhance diagnosis through 3D imaging has revolutionized orthodontic operations. Deep learning models have the potential to significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce human errors by accurately identifying anatomical characteristics on radiographs, thereby expediting analytical processes. Additionally, the use of 3D imaging technologies such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) can facilitate precise treatment planning, allowing for comprehensive examinations of craniofacial architecture, tooth movements, and airway dimensions. In today's era of personalized medicine, deep learning's ability to customize treatments for individual patients has propelled the field of orthodontics forward tremendously. However, it is essential to address issues related to data privacy, model interpretability, and ethical considerations before orthodontic practices can use deep learning in an ethical and responsible manner. Modern orthodontics is evolving, thanks to the ability of deep learning to deliver more accurate, effective, and personalized orthodontic treatments, improving patient care as technology develops.

Management of Aberrant Frenum and Gingival Overgrowth in Orthodontic Patients: A Case Report.

The frenum, a fold of mucous membrane, connects the lip and cheek to the alveolar mucosa, gingiva, and underlying periosteum. When the frenum is positioned excessively near the gingival margin, it has the potential to compromise gingival health, impeding plaque control efforts and inducing muscular stress. A frenectomy is a commonly employed corrective measure for anomalous frenum attachments. In a recent clinical case, a 21-year-old female patient was referred from the Department of Orthodontics to the Department of Periodontics due to a papillary-type aberrant labial frenum attachment and excessive gingival tissue surrounding the upper right and left central incisors. The patient underwent a frenectomy, gingivectomy, and gingivoplasty procedures under local anesthesia to address the abnormal frenum attachment and gingival overgrowth using a scalpel. This approach has been demonstrated to yield optimal outcomes in orthodontic therapy for patients exhibiting elevated frenum attachment and gingival overgrowth. Following the achievement of hemostasis, a periodontal pack was applied to facilitate healing and preserve the soft tissue.

Clinical Insights Into Addressing Constricted Maxillary Arch in Angle's Class II Malocclusion: A Case Report.

The transverse dimension, often overlooked in orthodontics, plays a crucial role in malocclusions, affecting not only occlusion in that dimension but also sagittal and vertical dimensions. Posterior crossbites, indicative of transverse maxillary issues, are commonly addressed through palatal expansion. This case report explores the clinical insights into addressing a constricted maxillary arch in Angle's Class II malocclusion using a nickel-titanium (NiTi) expander. The NiTi expander provides constant and optimal expansion forces by incorporating a temperature-activated NiTi alloy. A 16-year-old male with irregularly placed teeth, high palatal vault, and posterior crossbite underwent treatment involving NiTi expander usage for maxillary expansion. The case presentation details the patient's journey, starting with upper arch bonding and expansion, then lower arch bonding, and concluding with complete leveling and alignment without extractions. The presented case demonstrates successful correction of a constricted maxillary arch, specifically in the canine and molar regions, utilizing the NiTi expander. The observed increase in intermolar width aligns with previous studies, showcasing the effectiveness of slow maxillary expansion. This article contributes valuable clinical insights into addressing transverse maxillary issues, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration in choosing the appropriate expansion method for optimal results.

From Twin Blocks to Quad Blocks: A Two-Phase Approach to Class II Correction.

Twin Block, a functional orthodontic appliance, has a major impact on the dentoalveolar structures with limited skeletal effects. In specific clinical scenarios, particularly in growing patients such as class II division 1 where the mandible is retropositioned, these appliances can effectively address the malocclusions. Patient compliance plays a crucial role in the success of these appliances, which also streamline subsequent phases of fixed appliance treatment. In the current case report, a Twin Block appliance followed by a Quad Block was given to a 12-year-old boy to refine the occlusion. The design and treatment outcomes of the appliance are discussed in this case study.

Progressive Strategy for Congenitally Missing Anteriors in Binder Syndrome: A Case Report.

Binder syndrome (maxillonasal dysplasia) is an uncommon congenital craniofacial condition. It is marked by distinctive facial characteristics including a flat, vertically oriented nose, maxillary underdevelopment, malocclusion, and nasal bone irregularities. This case study introduces an inventive strategy for addressing congenitally absent anterior teeth in a patient diagnosed with Binder syndrome. Our treatment approach combined orthodontic interventions and prosthetic restorations to enhance both aesthetics and function. This report explores the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of the case, underscoring the encountered challenges and the ultimately successful outcome. This approach provides valuable insights into managing dental anomalies linked to Binder syndrome, emphasizing the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach for comprehensive patient care. A suitable strategy for adult patients might be slow maxillary expansion. This case report is about a rare case of maxillonasal dysplasia managed with the esthetic replacement of anterior teeth.

Clinical Implications of Probiotics in Oral and Periodontal Health: A Comprehensive Review.

Probiotic therapy represents a novel concept in dentistry. The microbial nature of dental plaque can be altered, or the probiotic strategy can efficiently inhibit oral pathogens. Probiotics are dietary supplements that are vital for boosting immunity as they include beneficial bacteria and yeast. In dentistry and medicine, the interest in probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics is increasing. By forming a biofilm and assisting in preventing dental cavities, probiotics play a crucial role in dentistry and significantly impact immunity. Prebiotics are non-digestible dietary supplements that enhance health by increasing the quantity and activity of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria. It has been demonstrated that prebiotics, in addition to probiotics, can help treat oral diseases. They promote the growth and activity of beneficial organisms while inhibiting potentially harmful bacteria's growth and activity. Synbiotics are dietary supplements that combine probiotics and prebiotics, believed to work in tandem through a process known as synergism. Studies have indicated that synbiotics, or a combination of probiotics with a prebiotic, may have greater efficacy than either supplement alone.

Expanding Horizons: A Case Report of Cleft Expansion in the Mixed Dentition Stage.

A nine-year-old boy with a cleft lip and palate had midface retrusion as a result of maxillary complex growth inhibition. He sought treatment for total crossbite with a Class III skeletal pattern. The maxillary expansion widened the maxilla to improve the sagittal and transverse skeletal relationship. In skeletal Class III patients with a repaired cleft lip and palate, maxillary expansion and protraction usually provide effective improvement. The individual growth of the maxilla and mandible is crucial to the success of the orthopedic procedure.

Rescuing the Hidden Canine: A Case Report of Successful Surgical Exposure and Orthodontic Management.

Canine impaction, a recognized dental condition, particularly in the maxillary region, poses both functional and esthetic challenges. This case report explores the management of impacted maxillary canines coexisting with missing upper third molars in the same patient, showcasing the complexity of dental anomalies. Its multifaceted etiology includes complex eruption pathways and potential genetic factors. Addressing the impacted canine (upper left), particularly in the anterior region, is essential for oral health and aesthetics. Surgical-orthodontic techniques, guided eruption, and interdisciplinary collaboration have revolutionized management. This report emphasizes early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and the transformative potential of surgical exposure and orthodontic intervention in enhancing oral health, function, and aesthetics.

Comparative Evaluation and Correlation of Pain Pattern in Neck Musculature Observed in Mild, Moderate, and Severe Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Cases as Compared to Non-temporomandibular Joint Disorder Cases.

Introduction Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a broad term used to describe several interlinked disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), muscles of the craniofacial region, and associated structures, all of which have common symptoms such as pain and reduced jaw opening. Along with these, extra-craniofacial symptoms may also be present, which need to be assessed for early diagnosis of TMD. Considering the extra-craniofacial symptoms of TMD, this observational study aimed to evaluate the severity of pain in the neck musculature of patients with TMD and correlate it with the severity of the disorder. Material and methods A total of 44 patients were included in the study who were graded for severity of TMD based on the amnestic and dysfunctional components of the Helkimo index separately. The pain was evaluated bilaterally in five groups of neck muscles in all cases using manual palpation. The severity of pain in these neck muscles was then correlated with the severity of both subjective and objective symptoms of TMD and compared with patients without TMD. Results The Chi-square test revealed a statistically significant association between the severity of pain in all five groups of neck muscles and the severity of TMD. The severity of pain increased with the increasing severity of TMD, with a total of 59.09% of TMD patients presenting with varying degrees of pain in the neck musculature and a p-value of 0.0001% which was significant. Negligible pain in the neck musculature was present in patients without TMD. Conclusion Based on the results, it was observed that the severity of TMD directly correlated with pain in various groups of neck muscles. 59.09% of patients with TMD reported varying degrees of pain in the neck musculature. The severity and distribution of pain in the neck muscles increased with the increasing severity of TMD.