Absorbent Paper Points Research Articles

Ophthalmic Diagnostic Tests in Parrots (Amazona amazonica) and (Amazona aestiva)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ophthalmic parameters of Amazona amazonica and Amazona aestiva maintained in captivity in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Median ± S-IQR phenol red thread test was 21.9 ± 2.3mm/15s and 12.6 ± 2.6mm/15s, endodontic absorbent paper point tear test 14.9 ± 1.6mm/min and 13.1 ± 1.4mm/min, and intraocular pressure 8.3 ± 1.1mmHg and 9.7 ± 1.7mmHg for A. amazonica and A. aestiva, respectively. Corneal sensitivity was 0.50 ± 0.25cm for A. amazonica and 1.00 ± 0.00cm for A. aestiva. The mean ultrasonographic dimensions measured were anterior chamber depths of 2.0 ± 0.1mm and 2.0 ± 0.1mm, lens axial lengths of 3.6 ± 0.0mm and 3.6 ± 0.1mm, vitreous chamber depths of 7.9 ± 0.4mm and 8.0 ± 0.2mm, axial globe lengths of 13.5 ± 0.4mm and 13.6 ± 0.1mm, and pecten oculi lengths of 6.4 ± 0.5 and 6.3 ± 0.3mm for A. amazonica and A. aestiva, respectively. The development of complementary knowledge about the ocular morphology and histology of these parrot species can be used to contribute to advances in the ophthalmology of wild birds.

COMPARISON BETWEEN LEVEL OF INTEREUKIN 10 IN THE GINGIVAL CREVICULAR FLUID AND PERI-IMPLANT SULCULAR FLUID AROUND HEALTHY DENTAL IMPLANTS (SPLIT MOUTH STUDY)

INTRODUCTION: Several methods are used in monitoring peri-implant clinical status most of these are periodontal in origin, unfortunately these methods only determine established disease rather than assessing early inflammatory response. Recently, Peri-implant sulcular fluid analysis become a major important index in monitoring peri-implant clinical status.OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare and evaluate levels of interleukin 10 in the peri-implant sulcular fluid and the gingival crevicular fluid.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixteen patients with functionally osseointigrated dental implants were conducted in this split mouth study. Crevicular fluid was collected by absorbent paper points, Interleukin 10 levels were evaluated by using ELISA method for interleukin 10 level from two sites in each subject,study sites: around dental implant and control sites: around antagonist tooth in the same arch. Specimens were evaluated by ELISA method for interleukin level.RESULTS: The levels of IL-10 for neobiotech dental implant showed a mean of 4.45±0.55 in the PISF and 2.85±0.34 GCF and for astratech dental implant IL10 showed a mean of 3.35±0.44 in PISF and 2.75± 0.41 in GCF. Levels of IL10 for the implant systems showed statistically significant higher levels in the PISF than GCF (P<0.05).CONCLUSION: IL-10 can be used as site specific marker in monitoring early inflammatory changes in both gingival crevicular fluid &peri-implant sulcular fluid.

A comparative evaluation of antibacterial effectiveness of sodium hypochlorite, Curcuma longa, and Camellia sinensis as irrigating solutions on isolated anaerobic bacteria from infected primary teeth

In endodontics, most of the commercial intra-canal medicaments have cytotoxic reactions and because of their inability to eliminate bacteria from dentinal tubules, recent medicine has turned its attention to the usage of biologic medication prepared from natural plants. The literature to testify the efficacy of natural alternatives in primary teeth is meagre and its effects as irrigating solutions need to be evaluated. To evaluate the antibacterial effectiveness of sodium hypochlorite, ethanolic extracts of Curcuma longa (turmeric) and Camellia sinensis (green tea) as irrigating solutions against the anaerobic bacteria isolated from the root canals of infected primary teeth. Thirty patients were selected based on the selected inclusion and exclusion criteria. Preoperative radiographs were taken. Rubber dam isolation and working length estimation were done, following which thirty samples were taken from the root canals of infected primary teeth using sterile absorbent paper points and transferred to tubes containing thioglycolate transport medium. The bacteria were then isolated using standard microbiological protocols and were subjected to antibiotic sensitivity testing using the three test irrigants. SPSS 18 software using Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. The most commonly isolated bacteria included Porphyromonas sp., Bacteroides fragilis, Peptostreptococcus, and Staphylococcus aureus. Sodium hypochlorite and C. longa (turmeric) showed good antibacterial effect and were effective against most of the isolated bacteria. There was statistically significant difference in the antibacterial effect among the three tested groups (P < 0.001). The least effective was C. sinensis (green tea). The infected primary teeth almost always present with a polymicrobial structure with a wide variety of anaerobic bacteria. The chemo-mechanical preparation plays an important role in eradicating the population of predominant micro-organisms in treating these teeth with promising effects with the use of newer test irrigants while avoiding the side effects of sodium hypochlorite.

In vitro analysis of microbial contamination of paper points

During endodontic treatment, the maintennance of the aseptic chain is mandatory. Therefore, all substances, instruments, and medications inserted into root canals must be free of microorganisms. Objective: To evaluate in vitro and microbiologically the contamination of absorbent paper points. Material and methods:Absorbent paper points of different brands and under different conditions were evaluated and subdivided into the following groups: esterilized by the manufacturer (G1 to G5), not esterilized by the manufacturer (G6), esterilized in autoclave by the operator (G7), and intentionally contaminated (G8). The two last groups were the positive and negative controls, respectively. All paper points were unpacked and immersed into tubes with culture medium for 48 hours and then analyzed according to culture broth turbidity. Results: Only the samples esterilized by the manufacturers Dentsply® (G1), Endopoints®(G2), and Meta® (G3), and the samples esterilized in autoclave by the operator (G7) did not evidence microbial growth after 48 hours. G7) did not evidence microbial growth after 48 hours. ) did not evidence microbial growth after 48 hours. Although sterilized by the manufacturer, both the brands Tanari®(G4) and Roeko® (G5) showed bacterial contamination; Dentsply®(G6) non-sterile paper points also showed bacterial contamination. non-sterile paper points also showed bacterial contamination.Conclusion: Paper point esterilization before clinical use should be Paper point esterilization before clinical use should berecommended regardless of the commercial brand.

Association of Fusobacterium Isolation From Periodontal Pockets With Halitosis and the Related Risk Factors in Shiraz, Iran

Background: Over recent decades, halitosis has become a priority in oral hygiene maintenance. Bad breath is one of the primary reasons for referral to dentists in Iran. Although halitosis is mainly caused by endogenous factors such as microbial metabolism, it is a multifactorial condition. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the probable relationship of the presence of Fusobacterium species in periodontal pockets with halitosis and determine the risk factors for this condition. Patients and Methods: This case–control study included patients referred to a polyclinic in Shiraz, which is located in Fars province in the southwest of Iran. In total, 50 patients with halitosis confirmed by an organoleptic test and 50 patients without oral malodor were recruited. Samples were obtained from their periodontal pockets using absorbent paper points and cultured for characterization by biochemical tests. Results: In total, 26% (n = 13) and 8% (n = 4) samples were positive for Fusobacterium species in the halitosis and control groups, respectively, with F. nucleatum present in the greatest proportion in both groups. Halitophobia was significantly more frequent in the halitosis group than in the control group (P < 0.001). Sinusitis was the most common systemic disease. Moreover, the halitosis group patients exhibited a greater tendency to include curry powder, chili, and sausage in their diet compared with the control subjects (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that the presence of Fusobacterium species in periodontal pockets is an important risk factor for halitosis.

Efficacy of MTAD with shortened irrigation time on smear layer removal after rotary canal instrumentation: An in vitro study

Context: A search in the endodontic literature showed the absence of any reports regarding the use of a mixture of tetracycline, acid, and detergent (MTAD) to remove smear layer at shortened irrigation time. Aims: To determine the efficacy of MTAD with shortened irrigation time on smear layer removal after Pro Taper rotary canal instrumentation. Methods: Twenty single-rooted lower premolar teeth were randomly divided into two experimental groups. After decoronation of all the samples, working length was determined and all the teeth were instrumented to master apical size # 30 (F3), using Pro Taper rotary files. Teeth were irrigated with 3% NaOCl during instrumentation. Experimental groups one and two were irrigated with a 5 ml final rinse using MTAD for 5 min and 2.5 min, respectively. After irrigation, all root canals were dried with absorbent paper points. The teeth were then sectioned longitudinally and prepared for a scanning electron microscopic examination. The scanning electron microscope photographs were evaluated using a standard scoring system developed by Rome et al . Statistical Analysis Used: Results were statistically analyzed using Mann–Whitney U-test. Results: When intercomparison was made between Group 1 and 2 at the coronal and middle third, statistically significant difference was observed, with Group 1 having significantly less smear layer than Group 2. In apical third, no statistically significant difference was observed between Group 1 and 2, even though smear layer removal was more in Group 1 than Group 2. Conclusion: Effective smear layer removal was not possible with shortened irrigation time using MTAD.

Clinical evaluation of residual tetrasodium pyrophosphate released from two different anticalculus flosses.

The aim of this study was to compare the residual content of tetrasodium pyrophosphate released by two different anticalculus dental flosses (Reach PP®--entangled polypropylene floss and Reach NT®--texturized nylon) in the oral cavity. Ten healthy individuals (aged between 18 and 30 years) were enrolled in this randomized crossover clinical investigation. Participants received instructions on daily dental flossing and the interventions were randomly performed in 2 different groups (NT or PP) of five individuals each according to the dental flosses. Individuals were instructed to use each dental floss with a total of six slides on the two interproximal aspects of target teeth (3 slides on each interproximal aspect). A washout period of one week was used before start flossing interventions and after each type of dental floss to prevent any bias related to the exposure to any product that contained the active ingredient. Samples were collected by #35 sterilized absorbent paper points from interdental fluid after flossing and assessed by ion chromatography. The levels of residual tetrasodium pyrophosphate were evaluated by means of binomial generalized linear model proportions and canonical link function. Both dental flosses were effective in tetrasodium pyrophosphate release at therapeutic levels in the interdental gingival crevicular fluid for a period of up to 2 h after use. No significant differences were found between both groups (p>0.05). It may be concluded that both material composition and physical structure of the new dental floss did not affect the release or the maintenance of anticalculus agent at therapeutic levels for a period of up to 2 h after single use.

Levels of matrix metalloproteinase-7 and osteopontin in human gingival crevicular fluid during initial tooth movement

PurposeDuring orthodontic treatment, the early response of periodontal tissues to mechanical stress involves several metabolic changes that allow tooth movement. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate osteopontin (OPN) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-7 in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of human teeth exposed to orthodontic force.Materials and MethodsGCF samples were obtained from 15 healthy orthodontic patients (age, 12-22 years). In each patient, the left maxillary canine having the fixed orthodontic appliance was used as the test tooth, and its antagonist, with no appliance, was the control. Orthodontic force, 75 g was applied using a 16 × 22 beta titanium closing loop. The GCF sampling on the disto-buccal aspects of experimental and control tooth was performed at specific time interval with sterilized absorbent paper point. Processing was carried out with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect OPN and MMP-7 levels.ResultsThe peak level of OPN was seen after 1 h application of orthodontic force which was 1280.36 pg/ml ± 185.02. The peak level of MMP-7 was seen at 0 h which was 598.3 pg/ml ± 107.5. The levels of OPN after 1 h increased to 1280.36 pg/ml ± 185.02, and they decreased at 24 h to 1012.86 pg/ml ± 168.47 (P= 0.001). The levels of MMP-7 after 1 h decreased to 478 pg/ml ± 99.7 which increased at 24 h to 526.9 pg/ml ± 99.2.ConclusionsOrthodontic forces affect both OPN and MMP-7 protein levels on the compression side in a time-dependent fashion.

Measurement of tear production using phenol red thread and standardized endodontic absorbent paper points in European pond turtles (Emys orbicularis).

The objective of this study was to determine the aqueous fraction of the tear film using the phenol red thread test (PRTT) and paper point tear test (PPTT) in healthy adult European pond turtles (Emys orbicularis). Twenty-four healthy adult European pond turtles were studied. Measurement of tear secretion was performed using the PRTT and standardized endodontic absorbent PPTT. Horizontal palpebral fissure length (HPFL) was measured using digital calipers and was correlated with the weight of the animal. The mean ± SD PRTT, PPTT, and HPFL values for the left and right eyes were 5.12 ± 1.54 mm/15 sec and 4.62 ± 1.76 mm/15 sec; 4.50 ± 1.25 mm/1 min and 4.20 ± 1.53 mm/1 min; and 8.4 ± 0.6 mm and 8.3 ± 0.6 mm, respectively. No significant differences were detected between right and left eyes of individual turtles or between males and females in all tests. This study represents reference values of tear production in European pond turtles obtained from PRTT and PPTT methods and forms an important baseline study in defining the healthy chelonian ocular surface.

Tear production, intraocular pressure and conjunctival microbiota, cytology and histology of New Zealand rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

The purpose of this study was to establish reference values for selected ophthalmic diagnostic tests in New Zealand rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). A total of 22 adult male rabbits were used. The ophthalmic tests included evaluation of tear production with Schirmer tear test 1(STT1) and Endodontic absorbent paper point tear test (EAPPTT) using two different commercial brand materials. Applanation tonometry, Culture of the conjunctival bacterial flora, , conjunctival cytology and conjunctival histology were also performed. Mean (±SD) for STT1, EAPPTTa, EAPPTTb and IOP was 7.27±2.51mm/min, 12.43±1.69mm/min, 15.24±2.07mm/min, 12.89±2.80mm Hg, respectively. Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus sp. and Bacillus sp. were predominant. The cytological evaluation revealed the presence columnar epithelial cells, superficial squamous keratinized cells, lymphocytes, heterophils, red blood cells, mucus and bacteria. The histological analysis revealed a stratified epithelium, characterized by the presence of columnar epithelial cells with a large number of goblet cells. The reported data can be used for therapeutic or experimental purposes.

Ophthalmic diagnostic tests in captive red-footed tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonaria) in Salvador, northeast Brazil.

The aim of this study was to establish normal ophthalmic parameters for select diagnostic tests in red-footed tortoises (Chelonoides carbonaria). A total of 52 animals, approximately 20-30years old, were studied. Ophthalmic diagnostic tests included culturing of the normal conjunctival bacterial flora in summer and winter, evaluation of tear production using Schirmer tear test (STT) and endodontic absorbent paper point tear test in two different environmental temperatures (EAPPTT-1 at 32°C and EAPPTT-2 at 18°C), cytology of conjunctival cells, B-mode ultrasonography, measurement of palpebral fissure length (PFL), and applanation tonometry (in two different positions). In both seasons, Gram-positive bacteria were predominant. Median (± IQR/2) STT was 12.0±3.5mm/min, EAPPTT-1 was 15.9±0.7mm/15s, and EAPPTT-2 was 15.4±0.4mm/min (OD) and 17.8±1.0mm/min (OS). Anterior chamber depth was 1.0±0.1mm, lens axial length was 2.3±0.1mm, vitreous chamber depth was 4.3±0.2mm, and axial globe length was 7.7±0.3mm. PFL was 11.7±1.7mm. Intraocular pressure was 11.5±2.8mmHg for males and 14.0±3.5mmHg for females (dorsoventral position) and 18.0±3.2mmHg for males and 24.1±3.0mmHg for females (ventrodorsal position with inclination of 45°). The ophthalmic parameters reported here can aid in the diagnosis of eye diseases in red-footed tortoises (Chelonoides carbonaria).

Microbiological Assessment of Root Canals Following Use of Rotary and Manual Instruments in Primary Molars

To assess the microflora of root canals in primary molars following use of rotary NiTi files and conventional hand NiTi and stainless steel files. This randomized clinical trial consisted of a total of 60 first and second primary molars requiring root canal treatment, who were selected from children aged 5-9 years. Based on type of root canal instrumentation, the teeth were randomly assigned to three groups of twenty teeth each; Group A: Rotary NiTi files, Group B: Hand NiTi files and Group C: Hand stainless steel files. Following administration of local anesthesia, isolation with rubber dam was carried out. For the purpose of instrumentation and sampling, the palatal canal of maxillary molars and the distal canal of mandibular molars were selected. Prior to sampling, the orifices of other canals in these teeth were sealed, so as to prevent any contamination. Instrumentation was carried out in each group using respective instruments along with intermittent saline irrigation. Root canal samples were obtained both before and after instrumentation, using sterile absorbent paper points and transferred to a sterile vial with transport fluid. Serial dilutions were prepared and cultured on suitable agar media. Both aerobic and anaerobic microbial counts were made. Data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis using Wilcoxon signed rank test and one-way Analysis of variance. In all three groups, there was a significant reduction in both aerobic and anaerobic mean microbial count following root canal instrumentation. (p < 0.001). Rotary NiTi files were as efficient as conventional hand instruments in significantly reducing the root canal microflora.

Ophthalmic diagnostic tests, orbital anatomy, and adnexal histology of the broad‐snouted caiman (Caiman latirostris)

The aim of this study was to establish normal ophthalmic parameters for selected diagnostic tests, and to describe the orbital anatomy and adnexal histology of the broad-snouted caiman. A total of 35 Caiman latirostris that were free of obvious ocular diseases were used to measure the parameters in this investigation. Ages ranged from 5 to 15years. Ophthalmic diagnostic tests were conducted, including evaluation of tear production with Schirmer Tear test-1 (STT1), culture of the conjunctival bacterial flora, applanation tonometry, conjunctival cytology, nictiating membrane incursion frequency test (NMIFT), endodontic absorbent paper point tear test (EAPPTT), palpebral fissure length measurement (PFL) and B-mode ultrasonography. Adnexal histology and skull samples were studied. Mean (±SD) STT1 was 3.4±3.6mm/min (95% confidence interval of 2.01-4.78mm/min), intraocular pressure (IOP) was 12.9±6.2mmHg, NMIFT was 6.0±3.5, EAPPTT was 17.1±2.5mm/min, PFL was 28.9±3.0mm, anterior chamber depth was 3.1±0.3mm, lens axial length was 8.4±0.6mm, vitreous chamber depth was 7.9±0.7mm and axial globe length was 19.9±1.3mm. For all animals evaluated, Bacillus sp., Diphteroids and Staphylococcus sp. were predominant.

Effect of solvent evaporation strategies on regional bond strength of one‐step self‐etch adhesives to root canal dentine

To evaluate the efficacy of different solvent evaporation strategies on bonding of one-step self-etch adhesives to root canal dentine. Two dual-cure resin core systems (Clearfil DC Bond/Clearfil DC Core Automix and Clearfil Tri-S Bond Plus/Clearfil DC Core Plus; Kuraray Noritake Dental, Tokyo, Japan) were equally applied in 24 post spaces from extracted human mandibular premolars. After the adhesive application, specimens were randomly assigned into four water/solvent evaporation strategies as follows (I) insertion of absorbent paper point for 10s: P, (II) 10s air-blowing: A, (III) as (II) followed by insertion of absorbent paper point: AP, (IV) as (III) followed by 10s additional air-blowing: APA. Then, the adhesives were light cured, and resin core materials were placed into the post space, followed by light curing for 60s. After water storage for 24h, 0.6×0.6mm-thick beams were prepared to measure the regional μTBS. The mode of failure was also observed. The μTBS values were statistically analysed using three-way anova and Duncan HSD test (α=0.05). In the coronal region, there were no significant differences in μTBS between each evaporation strategy (P>0.05), except P group. However, in the apical region, APA and AP groups significantly increased in μTBS compared with A and P groups (P<0.05). Only in the APA group of Clearfil Tri-S Bond Plus/Clearfil DC Core Plus, was there no significant difference in μTBS between the coronal and apical regions (P>0.05). The use of paper points with additional air-blowing for removing excessive adhesive and evaporating residual water/solvent would be effective in producing higher bond strength for the tested one-step self-etch adhesives and fewer blister formations in deeper regions of the post space.

Reference values for the production of the aqueous fraction of the tear film measured by the standardized endodontic absorbent paper point test in different exotic and laboratory animal species

The aqueous fraction of the tear film and the horizontal palpebral fissure length (HPFL) were measured in exotic and laboratory animals, specifically saffron finches (Sicalis flaveola), chestnut-bellied seed-finches (Sporophila angolensis), red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans), rats (Rattus norvegicus) and mice (Mus musculus). These species possess small eyes making it difficult to perform the typical Schirmer tear test. Measurement of the aqueous fraction of the tear was performed using the standardized endodontic absorbent paper point tear test (PPTT), accomplished with manual restraint by a single operator. The following results were obtained: saffron finches (n = 42)-HPFL (4.46 ± 0.09 mm) and PPTT (5.10 ± 0.26 mm); chestnut-bellied seed-finches (n = 38)-HPFL (4.77 ± 0.05 mm) and PPTT (4.11 ± 0.34 mm); red-eared sliders (n = 56)-HPFL (8.59 ± 0.08 mm) and PPTT (8.79 ± 0.38 mm); rats (n = 60)-HPFL (6.45 ± 0.09 mm) and PTT (6.18 ± 2.06 mm); and mice (n = 22)-HPFL (3.59 ± 0.27 mm) and PPTT (4.39 ± 1.45 mm).

Current Trends in Use of Intracanal Medications in Dental Care Facilities: Questionnaire-based Survey on Training Dental Hygienists at Educational Institutions

The success of root canal therapy is dependent not only on removal of infected pulp (pulpectomy) followed by root canal enlargement, but also on the pharmacological effects of intracanal medications. Various intracanal medications are used. Formaldehyde preparations such as formocresol were common in the past, but these are no longer used in Europe or the US due to the biological toxicity of formaldehyde. In this study, a questionnaire was used to determine current trends in the use of intracanal medications at dental care facilities where dental hygiene students undergo practical training. The questionnaire comprised questions regarding the types of frequently used intracanal medications and their methods of application at dental care facilities in Saitama and Shizuoka prefectures. The results indicated that calcium hydroxide preparations were more commonly used in Europe or the US. However, these results also revealed that formaldehyde preparations were frequently used, which slightly differs from the scenario in Europe and the US. This study revealed that multiple intracanal medications were used for root canal therapy. Furthermore, it was also observed that cotton plugs were generally used as applicator tips for intracanal medications, whereas the use of absorbent paper points was relatively uncommon. The results suggest that the cost of absorbent paper points needs to be reduced.

Effect of sterilization methods on the absorption capacity of absorbent paper points

The purpose of the present study was to analyze the influence of sterilization methods on the absorption capacity of different brands of standardized absorbent paper points, testing the hypothesis that there is a positive correlation between the percentage of increased absorption capacity and sterilization method. Standardized endodontic absorbent paper points (size rank from #15 to #40) from three different brands of three manufacturers were used for this study (Dentsply, Endopoints, Tanari). Twenty absorbent paper points of each size were used. The initial weight (iw) of each absorbent paper point was recorded using a digital scale. After sterilization, the dry weight (dw) of each absorbent paper point was determined. Each paper point was then introduced into a 2% methylene blue solution during 20 seconds until complete saturation. The paper points were removed from the solution and the wet weight (ww) was determined, with absorption capacity calculated from a difference between ww-dw. Data was statistically analyzed using Tukey’s test and the Student’s t-test (p&lt;0.05). Tanari paper points exhibited the best absorption capacity among the brands analyzed, but the difference was non-significant. Sterilization process did not influence the absorption capacity of absorbent paper points.

Measurement of tear production in black‐tufted marmosets (Callithrix penicillata) using three different methods: modified Schirmer’s I, phenol red thread and standardized endodontic absorbent paper points

To report normal tear production of healthy adult black-tufted marmosets and propose a novel alternative for the measurement of the aqueous portion of tear production in animals with small eyes. Black-tufted marmosets (Callithrix penicillata). Tear production of 19 animals was evaluated by the following methods: modified Schirmer's I, phenol red thread and the novel use of standardized endodontic absorbent paper points. These methods and results were compared. Additionally, blink frequency and palpebral fissure length were measured. Modified Schirmer's test I, mean = -0.46 ± 3.41 mm/min; Phenol red thread, mean = 13.27 ± 5.41 mm/15 s.; Standardized endodontic paper points, size 30, mean = 9.32 ± 3.09 mm/min; Mean palpebral fissure length = 7.83 ± 0.72 mm. Blink frequency, mean = 20.27 ± 5.92/5 min. Normal parameters for blink frequency, palpebral fissure length and tear production measurement are presented. The palpebral fissure of black-tufted marmoset is very small and tear production is one of the lowest reported for all animal species. A novel and practical alternative for tear production measurement using standardized endodontic absorbent paper points is presented and is indicated for animals with small eyes.

Effect of Ibuprofen on IL-1β, TNF-α and PGE2 levels in periapical exudates: a double blinded clinical trial.

Bone resorption is one of the main features of inflammatory periapical lesions and is mainly mediated by interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2). Recent investigations of these lesions revealed that pharmacological modulation may be possible. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Ibuprofen on IL-1β, TNF-α and PGE2 levels in periapical exudates and compare the results with a group of placebo control. Thirty patients with non vital teeth and radiographic lesions were divided into two groups of case and control according to their entrance to the study. Periapical exudates were taken from root canals using absorbent paper points and followed by 400 mg Ibuprofen and placebo prescribed one tablet every 6 hour for three days and in the fourth day second samples were taken, then final cleaning, shaping and obturation of the canals were completed. IL-1β, TNF-α and PGE2 levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Data were analyzed using paired t-test and student's t-test. The results showed that PGE2 levels were decreased significantly in the case group to 86.92 ± 72.42 Pg/ml following Ibuprofen treatment comparing with the pre-treatment (164.96 ± 12.255 Pg/ml) (p=0.02) and placebo group (154.2 ± 97.13 Pg/ml) (p=0.001). But there were no significant differences in IL-1β and TNF-α level between the two groups and in each group before and after treatment. The data indicate that Ibuprofen, as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can be used to block PGE2 release, enhance healing of inflammatory periapical lesions and possibly to inhibit bone resorption.

Ultrasonic irrigation in the removal of smear layer and Enterococcus faecalis from root canals

Aim: This study evaluated both smear layer removal and reduction of Enterococcus faecalis after instrumentation with ultrasonic irrigation. Methods: Root canals were experimentally inoculated with E. faecalis for 20 days and microbiological samples were collected before and after chemomechanical preparation by using sterilized absorbent paper points. The irrigation solutions used were NaOCl 2.5% and EDTA 17%. In Group 1 (G1), conventional irrigation was used, whereas in Group 2 (G2) ultrasonic irrigation was performed. In group 3 (control), root canals were irrigated with distilled water. The samples were inoculated in BHI broth and turbidity was observed after 48 h to evaluate the reduction in the number of bacteria. Residual smear layer was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: The results showed no significant differences between ultrasonic and conventional irrigation. Conclusions: It was concluded that the level of disinfection and cleanliness of root canals achieved with ultrasonic irrigation is comparable to that obtained by conventional methods.