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Review
Article
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The emerging role of oral microbiota: A key driver of oral
Domenico Azzolino, phd, Alessia Felicetti, bsc, Luigi Santacroce, md, Tiziano Lucchi, md,
Abstract: Purpose: To
describe the existing literature on the emerging role of the oral microbiota in
shaping both oral and systemic health. Methods: A narrative review was performed. PubMed,
EMBASE and Scopus databases were searched for relevant articles published in
the English language. Results: The
oral microbiota plays a crucial role in both oral and systemic health, yet its
composition and functions have been underexplored compared to the gut
microbiota. The oral cavity harbors a diverse range of microorganisms,
including bacteria, fungi, viruses, archaea, and protozoa, which interact
within biofilms to influence oral health. The microbiome is influenced by
various factors such as diet, oral hygiene, smoking, alcohol consumption,
socioeconomic status, pregnancy, and genetics. Dysbiosis in the oral microbiota
has been linked to a range of oral diseases, including dental caries,
periodontal diseases, oral candidiasis, and even oral cancer. Additionally,
oral bacteria can impact systemic health, with emerging associations to cardiovascular disease, respiratory
conditions, and various cancers. Effective
management of oral dysbiosis involves strategies such as mouthwashes, dietary
modifications, and supplementation with probiotics and prebiotics, which can
modulate the microbiota, enhance immune responses, and reduce pathogenic
growth. (Am
J Dent 2025;38:111-116).
Mail: Dr. Alessia Felicetti, Department of Medical
and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy. E-mail: felicettialessia21@gmail.com
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Research
Article
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Effects
of energy and sports drinks on dentin surfaces
Meltem Nermin Polan, dds, Aybuke Uslu Tekce, dds, Cansu Atalay, dds, phd, Ayse Ruya Yazici, dds, phd
Abstract: Purpose: To evaluate the laboratory effects
of various energy and sports drinks on the surface microhardness and roughness
of dentin. Methods: 60 extracted, sound bovine incisors were selected.
After embedding the crown segments in acrylic resin blocks, the buccal surfaces
were ground to expose a flat dentin surface. The dentin specimens were randomly
divided into six groups (n=10): (DW) Distilled water (negative control), (M)
Monster, (RB) Red Bull, (IS) Isostar, (PR) Powerade,
and (CC) Coca-Cola (positive control). Following the initial microhardness and
roughness measurements, the specimens were immersed in the beverages, with pH
and titratable acidity (TA) values measured, three
times a day for 20 minutes. After 7 days, final measurements were recorded. A
single specimen from each group was examined under a scanning electron microscope.
Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, Bonferroni, Tukey, and Games-Howell
tests (P< 0.05). Results: All groups showed a significant reduction
in microhardness, except for the DW group (P< 0.05). While there were no
statistically significant differences between the RB and M groups (P> 0.05),
significant changes in microhardness were observed between RB and the other
tested groups (P< 0.05). An increase in surface roughness was observed in
all tested groups except DW (P< 0.05). All the tested sports and energy
drinks caused a reduction in surface microhardness and an increase in surface
roughness. The consumption of these beverages may increase the risk of dental erosion.
(Am J Dent 2025;38:117-123).
Clinical
significance: The excessive consumption of sports and energy drinks might have harmful
effects on dentin tissue. Individuals should be
advised to limit their intake of such beverages.
Mail: Dr. Meltem Nermin Polan, Department of
Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, İzmir Democracy University,
35290, İzmir, Turkey. E-mail: meltempolan@gmail.com
Research
Article
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Investigation of
the effectiveness of whitening toothpastes
Tutku
Baytok Kavcı, Hande Kemaloğlu, dds, phd & Murat Türkün, dds, phd
Abstract: Purpose: To evaluate the laboratory effects of different
whitening toothpastes on human anterior teeth that had undergone in-office
bleaching with a 40% hydrogen peroxide (HP) agent. Methods: Fifty
caries-free human anterior teeth extracted for periodontal or orthodontic
reasons were randomly assigned to five groups (n=10): Group 1 (Control):
Bleached but no toothpaste applied; Group 2: Ipana Kalsident Classic Taste toothpaste; Group 3: Colgate Optic
White Expert toothpaste; Group 4: Signal White Now Gold toothpaste; Group 5:
Opalescence Whitening toothpaste. Baseline and post-bleaching color
measurements were performed using a digital spectrophotometer. Following
bleaching with 40% HP (Opalescence Boost 40% PF), the control group was brushed
with distilled water, while the experimental groups were brushed with the
respective toothpastes twice daily for 30 days using a rechargeable toothbrush.
Final color measurements were recorded, and color changes (ΔE00)
were calculated using the CIE2000 formula. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey tests (P= 0.05). Results: The use of
whitening toothpastes after bleaching significantly enhanced tooth color.
Opalescence Whitening exhibited the greatest effect, followed by Colgate Optic
White Expert. Signal White Now Gold demonstrated significantly higher efficacy
than Ipana Kalsident Classic Taste. However, no significant difference was observed between the
control group and Ipana. (Am J Dent 2025;38:124-128).
Clinical significance: This study demonstrated that whitening toothpastes
play a beneficial role in maintaining and enhancing tooth color following
in-office bleaching. Clinically, the use of an appropriate whitening toothpaste is recommended to prolong and optimize the results of
bleaching procedures.
Mail: Ms. Tutku Baytok Kavcı, Department of
Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Ege University, Erzene, Ege University Campus, 35040 Bornova/Izmir,
Turkey. E-mail: baytoktutku@icloud.com
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Research
Article
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Effect
of immediate dentin sealing on bond strength and wettability
Otavio Marino dos Santos Neto, dds, ms, Ingrid Carneiro Cavalcante Souto, dds, ms
Abstract: Purpose: To investigate the influence of
immediate dentin sealing (IDS) on the shear bond strength (SBS) and wettability
of both sound and eroded dentin. Methods: Dentin specimens were divided
into four groups (n= 21): sound dentin with and without IDS and eroded dentin
with and without IDS. Erosive cycling was performed using 1% citric acid solution, and lithium disilicate discs were cemented onto the
dentin. The samples underwent thermocycling and SBS testing (n= 10), with
failure modes analyzed by stereomicroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
(n= 3) was used to examine the hybrid layer and resin tags, while wettability
(n= 8) was measured by contact angle analysis. Results: Erosion
significantly reduced the SBS (P< 0.001), while IDS increased it for both
sound and eroded dentin (P< 0.001). The most common failure mode was
adhesive. SEM revealed a thicker hybrid layer and more resin tags in eroded
dentin with IDS. Erosion did not affect wettability (P= 0.186), but IDS
increased it (P< 0.001). IDS improved both SBS and wettability in sound and
eroded dentin, suggesting it may be an effective technique for enhancing
adhesion in restorative dentistry. (Am J Dent 2025;38:129-134).
Clinical significance: Immediate dentin sealing (IDS) improves bond strength
and wettability in both sound and eroded dentin, making it a valuable technique
for enhancing adhesion in restorative procedures, especially in cases with
compromised dentin. This could contribute to the durability and success of
restorations.
Mail: Dr. Rossana Pereira de Almeida, Department of
Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, USP Campus, Avenida do Café, 11, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-904, Brazil. E-mail: rpaa@forp.usp.br
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Research
Article
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Impact
of adhesive systems on the bond strength of CAD-CAM ceramics
Burcu
Kanat-Ertürk, dds, phd, Begüm Karademir, dds & Yasemİn Yıldıran-Avcu, phd
Abstract: Purpose: To evaluate the laboratory shear
bond strength of four different adhesive systems and to determine the effect of
Universal adhesive when bonded to two CAD-CAM ceramics (IPS e.max CAD and Vita Suprinity) to tooth surfaces (enamel and
dentin). Methods: 80 human teeth were sectioned to obtain enamel and
dentin substrates and embedded into acrylic molds (N= 160). Two CAD-CAM
ceramics, including lithium-disilicate glass-ceramic (IPS e.max CAD) and zirconia-reinforced lithium-silicate glass-ceramic (Vita Suprinity), were milled into 2 mm diameter and 2.5 mm
height specimens (N= 160). Four adhesive systems were tested: esthetic cement
with universal adhesive in total-etch mode (Variolink Esthetic DC with Adhese Universal), total-etch (Variolink II), self-etch (Panavia F 2.0), and self-adhesive
(Rely X U200) (n=10/subgroups). Cementation was performed according to the
manufacturers’ instructions, and shear bond strength
test was applied (1mm/minute). Data were statistically analyzed using three-way
ANOVA and independent t-tests. Fractured surfaces were also examined. Results: For enamel, the statistically highest values were observed in Variolink Esthetic DC with Adhese Universal and Variolink II, while Rely X U200 showed
the lowest values for both ceramics. For dentin, no significant differences
were found among most adhesive system groups. Shear bond strength values
between IPS e.max CAD and Vita Suprinity were statistically similar for all adhesive systems. Cementation to enamel
resulted in higher bond strengths than to dentin, except in the Rely X U200
group, where adhesive failures predominated for both ceramics. Variolink Esthetic DC with Universal Adhesive in total-etch
mode produced numerically higher bond strength values for all groups, with a
higher incidence of mixed failure types. (Am J Dent 2025;38:135-141).
Clinical significance: Variolink Esthetic DC with
Universal Adhesive in total-etch mode, followed by Variolink II, provided stronger and more durable bonds, with enamel generally resulting
in higher shear bond strengths than dentin for both IPS e.max CAD and Vita Suprinity. These findings can guide
clinicians in selecting the most appropriate adhesive systems to optimize the
longevity and effectiveness of IPS e.max CAD or Vita Suprinity depending on the type of tooth tissue.
Mail: Dr. Burcu Kanat-Ertürk, Department of
Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Kocaeli University, 41190 Kocaeli, Turkey. E-mail: burcukanat@hotmail.com
Research
Article
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Comparison of
dimensional accuracy in models fabricated
Sıla
Sucuka, phd, Erva Eser, phd & Volkan Şahin, phd
Abstract: Purpose: To compare the inconsistencies of
press-fit and screw-retained digital implant replicas in models obtained from
different 3D printers using intraoral and extraoral digital impression
techniques with the conventional method. Methods: An all-on-four concept
edentulous maxillary model was fabricated. Two models were prepared with two
manufacturing methods: conventional group (CNV group) and additive
manufacturing group (AM group). The AM group was fabricated in two different
technologies (SLA and LCD) 3D printers from impressions taken with an intraoral
scanner and a model scanner. The AM group was further subdivided into press fit
replicas and screw-retained replicas. The position of each abutment replica was
measured with a coordinate measuring machine (CMM). Results: Models
produced with the Anycubic printer gave inconsistent
results in the z-axis (10.449 μm for group AM-5,
10.407 μm for group AM-6, 10.454 μm for group AM-7 and 10.43 μm for group AM-8). The other groups showed similar results in x-, y- and z-axis.
The CNV group showed significant differences from some groups for XZ angle and
YZ angle. IOS, EOS and conventional impression techniques showed similar
accuracy. The screw-retained digital replica group showed better results than
the press-fit digital replica group, but no significant difference was found.
The Anycubic printer provided the least accurate
values for implant replica positions, as it showed the highest discrepancy
values on the vertical axis. (Am J Dent 2025;38:142-148).
Clinical significance: The Anycubic printer
provided the least accurate values for implant replica positions, as it showed
the highest discrepancy values on the vertical axis.
Mail: Dr. Volkan Şahin, Department of
Prosthodontics, Kırıkkale University, 71450, Kırıkkale, Turkey. E-mail: vlknshn@kku.edu.tr
Research
Article
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A visual analysis
by dentists and patients of single-shade resin composite
Ingrid Barros da Costa Damasceno, dds, Eduardo José Veras Lourenço, dds, msc, phd,
Abstract: Purpose: To visually analyze the chromatic
behavior of single-shade resin composite in non-carious cervical lesions
(NCCLs) and assess its acceptability among undergraduate and graduate students,
dentistry professors, and patients. Methods: Restorations were performed
on NCCLs using the single-shade resin composites Omnichroma (OC) and Vittra APS Unique (VT), with Filtek Z350 XT (FT) as the control. Patients with three or
more NCCLs in consecutive teeth were included, and 22 restorations were visually
analyzed by 20 evaluators who were tested for color vision deficiency. The
restorations were evaluated based on World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria
after 6 months, and a survey was completed by patients after 6 months. Data
were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: OC performed significantly better than VT (P= 0.020), but with no significant
difference compared to FT (P= 0.441). OC had a 96.43% success rate in terms of
color and translucency, compared to FT (92.50%) and VT (77.22%). Single-shade resin
composites showed satisfactory compatibility in terms of color, translucency,
and shine for NCCLs, as evaluated by both professionals and patients. (Am J
Dent 2025;38:149-154).
Clinical significance: Single-shade resin can be used with promising results
for NCCLs, with Omnichroma being recommended as it
had the best performance.
Mail: Dr. Amanda Barreto Ramos, Department of
Integrated Clinical Procedures, Faculty of Odontology, Rio de Janeiro State
University, Boulevard 28 de Setembro, 157, Vila
Isabel, CEP 20551-030, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. E-mail: amandabarretoramoss@gmail.com
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Research
Article
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A
3-month randomized trial evaluating the effects of stannous fluoride
Tao He, dds, phd, Julie Grender, phd, Yuanshu Zou, phd, Pejmon Amini, dds, Andrew Groth, bsche,
Abstract: Purpose: To assess
the impact of formulation chemistry on gingivitis effects of two experimental
0.454% stannous fluoride (SnF2) dentifrices with low tin
bioavailability versus positive and negative controls. Methods: Adults with gingivitis were enrolled in this double-blind,
parallel group, randomized clinical trial. Gingivitis was assessed with the Löe-Silness Gingivitis Index (LSGI) at baseline, 1
month, and 3 months. The four treatments were: experimental dentifrice A
(0.454% SnF2, pH 4.7, soluble tin = 592 ppm), experimental
dentifrice B (0.454% SnF2, pH 5.8, soluble tin = 102 ppm), positive
control (0.454% SnF2 commercial dentifrice, soluble tin = 2,037
ppm), and negative control (0.76% sodium monofluorophosphate,
soluble tin = 0 ppm). Participants brushed for 1 minute twice daily with their
assigned dentifrice and a standard manual toothbrush. The primary clinical
endpoint was number of gingival bleeding sites. In vitro analyses characterized
tin uptake into biofilm and bacterial glycolysis. Results: Of 120 participants randomized to treatment, 115 completed
the study. Baseline mean number of bleeding sites (SD) was 35.11 (17.479). At 1
and 3 months, respectively, the mean was 19.52 and 16.64 for the positive control,
26.91 and 21.71 for Experimental dentifrice A, 31.01 and 27.59 for Experimental
dentifrice B, and 33.20 and 29.59 for the negative control. At 1 and 3 months, the positive control
showed significantly fewer bleeding sites versus all treatments (P≤ 0.04)
and Experimental dentifrice A had significantly less bleeding versus the negative
control (P≤ 0.041). Experimental dentifrice B was not significantly
different from the negative control (P≥ 0.438) at either timepoint. Tin
biofilm uptake and in vitro PGRM exhibited a similar trend. (Am J Dent 2025;38:155-160).
Clinical significance: SnF2 dentifrice
formulation chemistry influences the level of antigingivitis efficacy, which was also reflected in tin
bioavailability, tin uptake into biofilm, and bacterial glycolysis inhibition.
Mail: Dr. Tao He, The Procter & Gamble Company, Mason Business & Innovation Center, 8700 Mason-Montgomery Road, Mason, OH, 45040, USA. E-mail: he.t@pg.com