Antimicrobial activity of chlorhexidine inpatients with fixed orthodontic appliances

Oral environment of orthodontic patients undergoes changes, such as pH reduction, largernumber of sites available for Streptococcus mutans collection, and increased accumulation of foodparticles, which may lead to an increased number of S. mutans colony-forming units (CFU) insaliva. Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) is the most potent documented antimicrobial agent againstMutans streptococci and dental caries. The aim of this work was to assess efficiency of CHX-basedmouthwashes in patient with fixed orthodontic appliances. Methods: Twenty patients with fixedappliances were selected for this study. They were undergoing full-bonded non extraction treatmentwith metal brackets (Roth 0.22, Discovery Dentaurum) on their teeth and bands on their molars.Each patient was provided with a toothbrush and toothpaste. The mouthwashes were used bypatients according to the manufacturers’ directions 15 min after toothbrushing: 5 mL of 0.2% CHX(Corsodyl, GlaxoSmithKline) was applied for 60 s in the morning and before bedtime for 2 weeks.Results: The data were analyzed according to the nonparametric Wilcoxon signed rank test (SPSSsoftware). Statistical significance level was set at p<0.05. Conclusions: The use of CHX-basedmouthwashes in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances led to reduction in the level of S. mutans.

Evaluation of root structure loss using AutoCAD assisted histomorphometry

Aims: The quantitative measurement and characterization of microscopical images using a computer is histomorphometry. The purpose of this experimental research is to evaluate the validity of two methods of histomorphometry of root structure loss measuring antiresorptive efficacy of topical application of alendronate in delayed tooth replantation on a canine model. Methods: We used fortyeight premolar mature roots from five dogs in the study. Roots were soaked in: 1 mMol of ALN, 3 mMol of ALN and physiological saline. After 4 months, animals were sacrificed and a bone block was prepared for analysis. Histological slides were photographed with digital camera (Olympus C 5060 5.1 megapixel) which is directly attached to microscope (Carl Zeiss, Axiolab, Jena, Germany) connected to a PC. The images obtained were stored as figures (TIFF) for further interpretation. Root structure loss due to resorption was measured in two ways. Results: The t-test for two independent samples for evaluating root mass loss between different methods of measurement was used. (t=4.497; df=17; p<0.05). Conclusion: The obtained results showed additional accuracy and precision by computer method that enables future researchers in the area of traumatic injuries of dento-alveolar system, for applying in pathohistology scientific approach, and for measuring the resorption changes on the roots of replanted teeth.