The Effect of Chemical Disinfectants on Maxillofacial Silicone With the Addition of Silver Nanoparticles: An Original Research.

Background and objective Silicone has emerged as the most widely accepted material for facial prosthesis fabrication. However, silicone materials have certain limitations. Several techniques have been investigated to lessen the degradation of the polymer, such as the use of nanoparticles and nano-oxides, etc. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of various chemical disinfectants on color stability, hardness, and surface roughness of maxillofacial silicone, after the addition of silver nanoparticles. Materials and methods This was an in vitro study carried out in the Department of Prosthodontics, Sharad Pawar Dental College and Hospital; 80 samples of maxillofacial silicone incorporated with silver nanoparticles (in a concentration of 20 ppm) were fabricated in a mold of 3 x 10 mm dimension disc. The samples were then tested for surface roughness (using a digital roughness tester), Shore A hardness (using a durometer), and color stability (using a spectrophotometer). The samples were then classified into four groups according to various disinfectants used: sodium hypochlorite (1% w/w), chlorhexidine gluconate (0.2%), and neutral soap, and distal water was deemed the control group. After 48 hours, the samples underwent retesting to assess for changes in readings under the same parameters (i.e., surface roughness, Shore A hardness, and color stability) to obtain results, i.e., the samples were tested after fabrication, before immersion, and 48 hours after immersion in disinfectants. Results When taking into account the surface roughness, the maximum roughness value was observed in the sodium hypochlorite group and the least roughness value in distilled water (mean % change of 38.359 to negligible change in the distilled water group). As for the Shore A hardness, the maximum hardness value was seen in the sodium hypochlorite group and the least hardness value in distilled water (mean % change of 15.780 to 2.125 in distilled water). Regarding color stability, the maximum increase in color values was seen in the sodium hypochlorite group (mean: 2.4) followed by the neutral soap group (mean: 1.653); the chlorhexidine gluconate group (mean: -0.287) showed the maximum decrease in color value from the initial to the final phase. Conclusions Based on our findings, surface roughness altered the most when samples were immersed in 1% sodium hypochlorite disinfectant and the least when samples were immersed in neutral soap disinfectant. Shore A hardness altered the most when samples were immersed in 1% sodium hypochlorite disinfectant, but altered the least when samples were immersed in neutral soap disinfectant. Color stability altered the most when samples were immersed in neutral soap disinfectant, but altered the least when samples were immersed in 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate. Disinfection with neutral soap seems to lead to fewer changes in physical properties (i.e., surface roughness and Shore A hardness) and hence is recommended as a disinfectant for silicone prosthesis. However, our study also showed that 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate had the least effect on the parameter of color stability, and hence it could be the disinfectant of choice for prostheses with high esthetic requirements.

Advancements in the Ocular Prosthesis Technology: The Insightful Innovations.

In patients who have lost their eye due to one or many of the following events, such as surgery, trauma, tumors, or birth eye defects, ocular prostheses play a very vital role in the recovery of their eye appearance and social appearance. This case report highlights the successful fitting and fabrication of a custom-made ocular prosthesis in a patient with an eye defect. The manufacturing process of the prostheses involved careful evaluation and fabrication involving a series of steps to achieve a successful prosthesis. A customized prosthesis guarantees excellent esthetic matching, more comfort, and increased patient confidence, thereby a better quality of life.

Enhancing Facial Aesthetics Using a Novel Technique: A Case Report.

A person's facial appearance matters in both social and professional contexts. Losing teeth has an impact on phonetics and mastication, but it also has an aesthetic effect on the lower face's appearance. Cheek sinking is caused by a decrease in muscular tone and an increase in the rate of resorption of the alveolar ridges. An edentulous patient will transform aesthetically if they receive facial as well as dental rehabilitation. The patient's social contacts and sense of self-worth both improve as a result. When an individual exhibits significant alveolar process resorption, traditional dentures are unable to offer sufficient support, hence requiring supplementary cheek support. Appliances for elevating or plumping the cheeks can be used for this. A 68-year-old male patient reported to the department of prosthodontics with a chief complaint of missing teeth and poor aesthetics. After a complete examination, a complete denture prosthesis with a detachable cheek plumper was planned. Press button retention for cheek plumpers is an advantage due to its easy installation and use. This article outlines a straightforward, inexpensive, and non-invasive process for creating a non-detachable cheek plumper using a press button for those who are edentulous. The two-in-one prosthesis enhances the appearance of the face while also replacing lost teeth.

Effect of Photobiomodulation on Crestal Bone Density Around Dental Implants: A Case Report.

Dental implants are becoming a necessary component of the dental profession. The first bone resorption at the implant surface has an impact on implant success. Bone alterations surrounding the implant are a significant factor in determining the implant's effectiveness. Reducing the loss of peri-implant crestal bone has been a constant goal. In dental implantology, several procedures are carried out to improve implant stability and the healing of the bone. The ability of photobiomodulation techniques or low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to speed up osseointegration by inducing cellular metabolism and stimulating tissue healing has made them popular. This case study details the implant loading in a patient treated with photobiomodulation to achieve implant stability and who has compromised bone type or D4.

Prosthetic Rehabilitation of a Non-optimally Positioned Implant With a Resin-Retained Restoration: A Clinical Case Report.

Long-term implant rehabilitation is still a problem. After about three months of implantation, the patient should go through rehabilitation to allow for osseointegration. However, poor patient cooperation during lengthy treatments or patient neglect, especially during patient-intensive treatments, can lead to a range of issues that require distinct approaches to solve. A fixed prosthetic is currently the most sought-after course of treatment. Implant misplacement can be a concern, especially during the prosthetic stage. Following the appropriate protocols, one of which has been discussed in this report, makes it possible to achieve prosthetic outcomes for a number of difficult cases. In the case described in this report, resin-retained restoration was used as an alternative to an implant-supported prosthesis because of the non-optimal position of the implant at the time of the prosthetic phase, which was due to discontinuation of treatment on the part of the patient. The conservative preparation of abutment teeth and pontic covering the non-optimally placed implant gave the best outcome and satisfaction on the part of the patient.

Transforming Smiles: A Case Study on Monolithic Zirconia Prosthetic Solutions.

In order to effectively address challenges related to anterior teeth restoration and achieve natural-looking results, considerations such as shape, size, gingival contour, and color are crucial. Due to an increasing desire for visually appealing alternatives that are free of metal, materials such as dental zirconia have become popular because of their superior aesthetics and mechanical characteristics. This case report presents clinical insights into anterior teeth rehabilitation with the use of layered zirconia fixed dental prostheses. It delves into the experiences associated with zirconia dental restorations on both endodontically treated and vital abutments, aiming to discern how various factors influence treatment outcomes. Beginning with the design of the restoration, its intricacies significantly impact its fit, strength, and overall durability. Moreover, the composition of zirconia used plays a pivotal role, as different formulations offer varying degrees of mechanical properties, influencing factors such as resilience and wear resistance. The shade selection is also scrutinized, as it directly affects the restoration's aesthetic integration with surrounding natural teeth, contributing to a more harmonious smile. Furthermore, the layering technique employed, particularly when additional porcelain or ceramic layers are applied, is essential for both cosmetic enhancement and structural integrity. Lastly, considerations of occlusion are paramount, ensuring proper alignment and contact between teeth to prevent premature wear and discomfort. By exploring these facets in zirconia restorations across different abutment types, this inquiry seeks to illuminate best practices for achieving favorable treatment outcomes in dental restoration procedures. The choice of zirconia composition, framework design, and shade must be carefully tailored to suit the characteristics of each individual abutment. This emphasizes the significance of adopting a tailored approach to tackle the distinct challenges posed by every clinical scenario. The manuscript provides detailed observations from a clinical case involving the restoration of anterior teeth utilizing monolithic zirconia-fixed dental prostheses. Through a combination of root canal treatment and composite buildup, successful restoration was achieved, with meticulous attention paid to aesthetic considerations. The utilization of computer-aided designing/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology in crafting zirconia restorations ensured precise fit and superior biocompatibility, contributing to the overall success of the treatment. The study underscores the importance of personalized treatment strategies in achieving optimal outcomes in anterior teeth restoration, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of various factors such as design, composition, and shade selection. Overall, the findings shed light on the potential of zirconia-based restorations in addressing the unique challenges associated with anterior teeth rehabilitation, offering valuable insights for dental practitioners striving to deliver aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound outcomes for their patients.

Reviving Vision: A Case Report of Prosthetic Eye Restoration.

Prosthetic eye implantation is a significant intervention for individuals facing ocular trauma or congenital defects. We present the case of an eight-year-old boy who underwent prosthetic eye implantation following enucleation due to a severe injury. The patient had suffered from impaired vision and psychological distress due to the visible absence of his natural eye. The prosthetic eye not only restored his facial symmetry but also revitalized his self-esteem and confidence. This case report highlights the successful outcome of prosthetic eye implantation in pediatric patients and underscores the importance of addressing both physical and psychological aspects of ocular trauma in young individuals.

Less Is More: A Case Report on All-on-4 Prosthesis.

Severe alveolar ridge atrophy following tooth removal poses a common and worsening issue in edentulous jaws, affecting patient comfort and quality of life. The All-on-4 approach involves axially positioning two anterior implants and distally orienting two posterior implants, reducing cantilever length and enabling prostheses with 12 teeth. This less invasive option, utilizing distal tilting of implants at 30°, offers biomechanical advantages and has shown short-term success, though long-term research is limited. Immediate-loading treatments are gaining popularity for their high survival rates. Understanding the biomechanics of implant-supported prostheses is crucial for long-term success, emphasizing the importance of optimal occlusal schemes. Challenges such as bone defects and surgical complexity have led to the exploration of achieving full-arch fixed restorations with fewer implants, building upon Brånemark's early work with four implants. The All-on-4 concept, originating in 1999, proves to be a viable treatment option, providing excellent long-term results and improved load distribution in challenging clinical circumstances. This case report explores the successful rehabilitation of a jaw using the All-on-4 implant prosthesis concept, a technique strategically placing four implants in completely edentulous jaws to support a fixed, immediately loaded prosthesis.

A Comprehensive Review on Virtual Articulators.

The virtual articulator (VA) is a technology that simulates the jaw relation in a computer-generated setting. Augmented and virtual reality have been utilized as digital technology, which aids in many areas of dentistry and dental education. Today, a practicing dentist must keep up with the newer technologies, but with technology evolving so quickly it becomes challenging. In dentistry, the possibilities for digitization and technological advancements are limitless. Virtual articulators (VAs) allow a complete occlusion analysis using dental models that replicate all mandibular motions in static and dynamic scenarios. VA when executed in addition to other software enhances treatment planning and patient education, allowing quicker and more precise individualized diagnoses. The main objective of this study was to describe and evaluate the study outcomes in the available research on VAs, assess their needs, and evaluate their advantages and limitations in various aspects. A PubMed Central search was made of dental journals, with the identification of 135 articles out of which 30 were finally selected. The investigations conducted to evaluate the VA's dependability provide good visualization of the quantity and location of the dynamic interactions. A precise instrument for fully analyzing occlusion in a real patient is the virtual articulator.

Porcelain Laminate Veneers: A Case Report.

One of the most crucial issues in modern dentistry is restoring a patient's lost dental aesthetic appearance. To do this, new therapeutic tools and techniques have been appearing on the market day by day. For anterior teeth, where aesthetics are extremely essential, the majority of dentists prefer more conservative and aesthetic treatments, such as direct and indirect laminate veneer restorations over full-ceramic crowns. The meteoric emergence of veneers has been one of dentistry's most successful innovations. It is a coating of tooth-coloured material that is put to a tooth to aesthetically restore any intrinsic discoloration or localised or generalised abnormalities. Any restoration work ought to be created using mechanical, biological, and aesthetic criteria. Patients may experience significant aesthetic issues as a result of the colour, form and structural and positional anomalies of their anterior teeth. This is a report depicting a case of porcelain laminate veneers using computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM).

Enhancing Esthetics Using Prosthetic Cheek Plumper With Magnet Retention for Rehabilitation of an Edentulous Patient: A Case Report.

The patient's state of health is significantly impacted by aesthetics. The face undergoes various changes as we age, including the loss of fat and muscle tonicity. The loss of teeth and these modifications accentuate the look of sunken cheeks. As a result, facial deformity may have an effect on a person's mental health, especially young people who are edentulous patients. Cheek plumpers and complete dentures (CDs) can be utilized to help these people recover or enhance aesthetics. The manufacturing of a CD with magnets is described in this case report.

A Systematic Review of Tripoding: A Step Towards Successful Rehabilitation.

This article aims to evaluate different methods and techniques published in the literature for tripodization in removable partial dentures. The systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Electronic databases like PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Science Direct were searched for manuscripts published till August 15, 2021. An electronic search was restricted to the English language of the publications to identify the relevant articles on tripoding techniques in removable partial dentures. A hand search was also carried out. A total of 18 articles were included in this systematic review. The documented 18 articles associated with the tripoding techniques were reviewed systematically. Accurate repositioning of a cast on the surveyor is a critical step in the fabrication of a removable prosthesis. Based on the ease of use and no modifications to the existing cast, the "tripoder attachment" and "swiveling device" can be concluded to be superior to others. Once constructed, these devices are easy to use, can be operated for various patients, do not modify or damage the cast, and can be stored and disinfected for repeated use.

Evaluating the Color Stability of Ocular Prosthesis after Immersion in Three Different Immersion Media: An In Vitro Study.

BACKGROUND: Immersion media such as ophthalmic irrigation solution, eye lubricant solution, and neutral soap solution will be the best, which will help in the longevity as well as the color stability of ocular prostheses. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare color stability of ocular prosthesis after immersion in three different immersion media. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 90 samples of scleral acrylic resin were prepared, which were painted with natural dry earth pigment NEAS and then were divided into three groups. These samples were checked before and after immersion in respective media after 8 weeks. To assess the color change, a spectrophotometry test was performed and the results were statistically analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey's test. RESULTS: Among all the three groups, the samples immersed in neutral soap solution proved to be most color stable, followed by eye lubricant solution, and the least color stable among the three was ophthalmic irrigating solution. CONCLUSION: The neutral soap solution proved to be the most color stable.

"Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of Three Polishing Agents on Staining Characteristics of Provisional Restorative Material:" An in vitro Study.

AIM: The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of three various polishing agents on provisional restorative material on immersion in a staining solutions. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study is (1) To evaluate the effect of pumice on staining characteristics of provisional restorative material before and after immersion in chlorhexidine. (2) To evaluate the effect of aluminum oxide paste on staining characteristics of provisional restorative material before and after immersion in chlorhexidine. (3) To evaluate the effect of diamond paste on staining characteristics of provisional restorative material before and after immersion in chlorhexidine. (4) To compare and assess the outcome of three polishing agents on staining characteristics of provisional restorative material. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty samples (10 mm × 2 mm) were fabricated of bis-acryl composites (Protemp™ 4) by utilizing a metal mold. The samples were grouped into three groups (n = 20), and various polishing agents were used, including pumice, aluminum oxide paste, and diamond polishing paste. The samples that were not exposed to any polishing agent served as the control group. The samples were kept in a water bath for a day at 37°C and were stained with chlorhexidine mouthwash. The color of all specimens was measured with a spectrophotometer before and after polishing, and color changes (ΔE) were calculated. RESULTS: By using one-way ANOVA, significant difference was found in mean color change in three polishing materials (F = 4.44, P = 0.016). By using Tukey test, statistically significant difference was found among pumice and aluminum oxide paste (P = 0.027), among pumice and diamond paste (P = 0.041) and no significant difference was found among aluminum oxide paste and diamond paste (P = 0.985). CONCLUSION: Pumice exhibited less staining which was statistically significant when compared with aluminum oxide paste and diamond paste. Hence, it can be considered the most efficient polishing agent.