Matrix Metalloproteinases in the Periodontium-Vital in Tissue Turnover and Unfortunate in Periodontitis.

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex non-cellular three-dimensional macromolecular network present within all tissues and organs, forming the foundation on which cells sit, and composed of proteins (such as collagen), glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, minerals, and water. The ECM provides a fundamental framework for the cellular constituents of tissue and biochemical support to surrounding cells. The ECM is a highly dynamic structure that is constantly being remodeled. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are among the most important proteolytic enzymes of the ECM and are capable of degrading all ECM molecules. MMPs play a relevant role in physiological as well as pathological processes; MMPs participate in embryogenesis, morphogenesis, wound healing, and tissue remodeling, and therefore, their impaired activity may result in several problems. MMP activity is also associated with chronic inflammation, tissue breakdown, fibrosis, and cancer invasion and metastasis. The periodontium is a unique anatomical site, composed of a variety of connective tissues, created by the ECM. During periodontitis, a chronic inflammation affecting the periodontium, increased presence and activity of MMPs is observed, resulting in irreversible losses of periodontal tissues. MMP expression and activity may be controlled in various ways, one of which is the inhibition of their activity by an endogenous group of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), as well as reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK).

Human papillomavirus and leukoplakia of the oral cavity: a systematic review.

Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is mainly a problem of the female reproductive tract. It can occur in the oral cavity as well. Commonly HPV infections are subclinical, without any visible symptoms, and last no longer than 2 years. Usually the clinical manifestation of HPV infection is benign, but in some cases it can also promote malignant transformation. In the paper we have tried to estimate the prevalence of HPV detected in samples of oral leukoplakia (OLK), the most common premalignant lesions of the oral mucosa. Aim: To review the current literature to estimate the prevalence of HPV (HPV DNA) detected in samples of oral leukoplakia. Material and methods: We searched PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases for studies that examined the prevalence of HPV in leukoplakia with HPV DNA detection by polymerase chain reaction. Results: HPV positive cases in OLK ranged from 0% to 100% in studies. The overall HPV prevalence in leukoplakia was 6.66%. The prevalence of HPV 16 positive cases was 2.95%. The high-risk HPV prevalence was 5.16%, when the low-risk HPV prevalence was 3.32%. When dysplasia is mentioned, HPV was detected in 19.56% of lesions with dysplasia, compared to 38.16% among non-dysplastic lesions. Conclusions: Further studies should be extended also to include low-risk HPV and compare its prevalence with presence of dysplasia in leukoplakia. Besides, leukoplakia and other premalignant lesions can no longer be treated as one lesion.

A Fresh Look at Mouthwashes-What Is Inside and What Is It For?

Mouthwashes are a very popular additional oral hygiene element and there are plenty of individual products, whose compositions are in a state of flux. The aim of our study was to investigate the compositions of mouthwashes and their functions, as well as to discuss their effectiveness in preventing and curing oral diseases and side effects. We searched for mouthwashes available on the market in Poland. We identified 241 individual mouthwash products. The extraction of compositions was performed and functions of the ingredients were assessed. Then, analysis was performed. The evaluation revealed that there are plenty of ingredients, but a typical mouthwash is a water-glycerine mixture and consists of additional sweetener, surfactant, preservative, and some colourant and flavouring agent, as well as usually having two oral health substances, anticaries sodium fluoride and antimicrobial essential oils. The effectiveness or side effects of several substances of mouthwashes were thoroughly discussed. We recommend not multiplying individual mouthwash products and their ingredients beyond medical or pharmaceutical necessity, especially without scientific proof.

Juvenile psammomatoid ossifying fibroma.

Juvenile psammomatoid ossifying fibroma (JPOF) is an uncommon benign and locally aggressive tumor. We report an unusual head tumour with extremely rare extensiveness and aggressivness. The patient was 18-year-old female with three-day-lasting headache and repetitive oral bleeding. Computed tomography revealed a large, well-circumscribed, expansile mass occupying ethmoid cells, nasal cavities and ventral part of the sphenoid sinus, with extention into the anterior cranial fossa. Pterional craniotomy was carried out. On one-year follow-up recurrence of the lesion was identified and the second surgery was performed. The lesion is under supervision now, due to incomplete removal.