Dental Technology Research Articles

The duration of finishing and polishing of acrylic removable orthodontic appliances in the Dental Technology Study Program at Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia

Objective: This study was intended to quantify the duration of finishing and polishing of removable orthodontic appliances by Dental Technology Study Program students. Material and Methods: This descriptive observational study employed total sampling. Fifteen of 6th semester students participated in the study, each of them producing three removable orthodontic appliances with the duration of finishing and polishing being recorded. Data was analyzed descriptively. Results: The duration of the finishing and polishing of orthodontic plates by Dental Technology Study Program students varied widely from 9 to 420 minutes with a mean of 71.20 minutes, both between individual students and between the first, second and third orthodontic plates. Conclusion: It is concluded that the duration of finishing and polishing in the fabrication of an orthodontic plate by the students was between 9 and 420 minutes. The duration varied depending on the design of the appliances, the skill of the students in processing or when performing the finishing and polishing.

Dynamics of the mandible bone tissue condition after the dental implantation and shockwave therapy

Background. The problem of restoration the integrity of the dentition after tooth loss remains one of the most problematic dental issues. Мodern dental technologies open a promising direction in its solution, in particular - the method of dental implantation. Objective. The aim of our work was to study the changes that occur in the bone tissue of the mandible after implantation of titanium foam and to determine the effect of shock wave therapy (SWT) on its structure restoration. Methods. The study was performed on 15 adult rabbits aged 6-7 months, weighing 2.5-3 kg. The animals from the experimental groups were implanted with titanium pin, 3 mm long. The pin was implanted under combined anesthesia bilaterally into the body of the mandible. One day after the operation, the animals received SWT 500 pulses with a frequency of 5 Hz and a maximum pressure at the wavefront of 1.2 Bar per implantation site using the device Storz Medical Master Plus MP 100. The animals were removed from the experiment on 15-th day, after which the mandible was disarticulated and radiographically performed. The obtained results were statistically significant. The differences at p<0.05 were considered significant. Results. The results showed that the bone tissue of the jaws during implantation undergoes traumatic injury, the results of which, two weeks after surgery on radiographs we can clearly see a violation of the bone tissue structure and a significant increase in its density. Using the SWT method, we obtained a positive dynamics of bone density after titanium pin implantation and slight Rh-changes in bone structure compared with normal. Conclusion. Аfter implantation with titanium pin the bone density of the rabbit lower jaw body is significantly reduced, X-ray shows the heterogeneity of bone structure, areas of sclerosis are expressed. Shock wave therapy helps to restore the quality of bone tissue, this is confirmed by the fact that the density indicators are close to the norm and X-ray shows some separate small areas of restructuring of bone tissue heterogeneity, mainly due to merging the pattern of the bone trabeculae of the bone cancellous part.

Periodontal Abscess and Pyorrhea: Proposal for a Novel Treatment with Ozone Nanobubble Saline Wash

The evolution of the treatment technologies in dentistry is remarkable. However, despite the advancement of science and therapeutic agents, they have not been able to overcome dental caries, periodontal disease [1], nor alveolar pyorrhea [2]. We are attempting to eliminate hundreds of oral bacteria, partly because we are fighting indigenous oral bacteria [3]. Currently, although many patients are trained in proper oral hygiene, including teeth brushing, flossing, and use of mouthwash daily, many still suffer from periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis [1]. Despite training and the abundance of oral healthcare products [4] widely available, including fluorides, chlorhexidine, and triclosan, oral health diseases remain a prominent issue. Beyond periodontal disease and gingival inflammation, extremely problematic conditions [1], such as periodontal abscesses [1] and alveolar pyorrhea [2], are some of the potential problems for patients and dentists. The most problematic condition is alveolar pyorrhea [2], advanced conditions of gingival inflammation [1], with symptoms including painful chewing, swollen or puffy gums, gum bleeding, and pus in the gums. These symptoms gradually appear, and in untreated conditions, lead to tooth loss. The advent and development of antibiotics have greatly impacted the treatment of bacterial infections. However, local bacterial infection lesions in various parts, such as dental fistulae [5], have not yet been overcome. The emergence of resistant strains is also a problem; the peculiarity of the conditions, such as fistula-like sites and infected wounds, is still a major obstacle to bacterial infections. These periodontal and gingival diseases [1] are treated with systemic antibiotics during the acute phase [4], but they are not always completely cured. It should be noted that bacterial infections in the oral cavity remain unresolved issues.

Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Cross Infection Control Among Students of Dentistry, Dental Hygiene, and Dental Technology in Jordan

Background: Cross infection control, to reduce the incidence of disease transmission between patients and dental team personnel, is an integral part of good clinical practice. Objective: To assess knowledge, attitude and practice of cross infection control among dental, dental hygiene, and dental technology students. Methods: Data were collected by a self-administrated questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitude, and practice of infection control measures. The questionnaire was published electronically to final year dental, dental hygiene, and dental technology students through student’s official social media groups . Results: Statistically significant difference was found in relation to students' specialization (p-value ≤ 0.05). None of the dental hygienist students had a negative attitude about infection control, while most of participants with a negative attitude were dental technology students (84.6%). No statistically significant difference (p>0.05) was found between groups in regard to cross-infection knowledge, where the level of knowledge ranged from moderate to good. Conclusion: Good knowledge, attitude, and practice were reported for dental and dental hygiene students, while good knowledge with a negative attitude was found amongst dental technology students. Specialty affected the practice of infection control measures, yet gender was not a significant variable. Improvement of the university curriculum, particularly for dental technology students, to increase awareness and knowledge of cross infection control is highly recommended.

Self-assessment on evaluating a crown preparation utilizing digital dental technology versus conventional direct supervision

Self-assessment on evaluating a crown preparation utilizing digital dental technology versus conventional direct supervision

The Origins of Acrylates and Adhesive Technologies in Dentistry.

To examine the origins of acrylates and adhesive dentistry up to 1955. A search of MEDLINE database and a manual literature search were conducted to find relevant articles. Acrylic acid was discovered in 1843, methacrylic acid in 1865. In 1880, light polymerization of acrylate compounds using glass prisms was introduced. In 1928, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) was industrially produced from methyl methacrylate (MMA). In 1930, PMMA moldings that could be adapted under heat and pressure were introduced into dentistry. The process was improved in 1936 by mixing pulverized PMMA and liquid MMA. In 1940, the intraoral polymerization of dental resins using UV light or catalysts was discovered. In the same year, the combined procedure (dual-curing) and addition of inorganic fillers to improve the material properties (precursors of composites) were proposed. Effects on the oxygen inhibition layer and intraoral bonding between several resin portions were also described. In 1942, direct restorations with self-curing resins (combined with a precursory version of cavity sealing) were described. These new resins were marketed in the late 1940s. Intraoral repair of restorations and cementation of crowns and bridges with resins were also described in 1942. In 1949, a glycerophosphoric acid-based sealer was marketed. In the same year, it was discovered that etching of the enamel (with nitric acid) caused an adhesion to thin layers of acrylic-based materials. In 1955, phosphoric acid etching of enamel was shown to improve adhesion. In the first half of the 20th century, important but little or unknown discoveries took place. These discoveries can improve our understanding of how adhesive dentistry evolved.

Perception and satisfaction of in-person and online classes for dental technology students

Perception and satisfaction of in-person and online classes for dental technology students

Basic principles of odontopreparation for non-removable orthopedic structures (literature review)

Introduction. The actual problem of dentists-orthopedists at the present time is a violation of the odontopreparation protocol and, as a result, poor-quality fixation of various non-removable orthopedic structures. For a strong and reliable fixation of non-removable orthopedic structures, special requirements must be imposed on them in terms of the shape and surface of the support of the processed tooth. These requirements include: parallelism of the walls of the prepared tooth (must be cylindrical); parallelism of the vertical walls of the stumps of the teeth, high-quality gingival ledge [1, 2]. Qualitatively prepared teeth for orthopedic structures, observance of parallelism of the walls create optimal conditions for stable fixation of orthopedic structures. Correctly executed gingival ledge promotes durable fixation of the crown and eliminates the likelihood of infection under it. After analyzing a large volume of domestic and foreign literature, it can be concluded that the creation of various methods of odontopreparation with the task of creating the most favorable supragingival part of the tooth for further fixation of the orthopedic structure is a significant problem in modern dentistry. The creation and clinical testing of DNT (dental navigation technologies) allows for accurate quality control of the performed odontopreparation. The purpose of this article was to analyze the existing methods of odontopreparation and identify the most effective ones among them.

Dental ergonomics. Ergonomic principles of work in dental laboratories

The dental technician’s specialty is a precise profession that requires a high degree of manuality, work with small tools, good ophthalmic health. Ergonomics explores the technical aspects of the relationship between workers, the work environment and the relationship between them. Its main task is to optimize the human-machine-work environment system. Healthcare professionals need to develop senses such as: visual acuity, hearing, depth of perception, psychomotor skills, dexterity, ability to maintain working positions for long periods of time to perform their procedures. Vitiation of any of them affects the practitioner‘s performance, efficiency and productivity. There is a lot of research in the literature on the risk factors influencing the work of dental technicians in terms of potential toxic materials, dermatological and respiratory diseases. Impressive is the fact that there is a lot of research on the influence of risk factors such as noise and musculoskeletal disorders affecting dentists and assistants, but research among dental technicians is scarce. Advances in technology in recent years have been aimed at facilitating the practice of dental technology, mainly in order to reduce occupational and iatrogenic risk factors to a minimum.

ПРЕИМУЩЕСТВА И НЕДОСТАТКИ ИЗГОТОВЛЕНИЯ НЕСЪЕМНЫХ КОНСТРУКЦИЙ ДЛИТЕЛЬНОГО НОШЕНИЯ МЕТОДОМ 3D-ПЕЧАТИ. ОБЗОР ЛИТЕРАТУРЫ С ОПИСАНИЕМ КЛИНИЧЕСКОГО СЛУЧАЯ

The active introduction of innovative technologies, namely 3D printing in dentistry, is of great interest from dentists of various specialties. The use of virtual modeling and printing is actively implemented not only in the work of dental technicians, but also dental surgeons, orthopedists, orthodontists, and doctors of other specialties. Modern technologies allow you to print a surgical template for more accurate and predictable implant placement, plan dental interventions and see the result even before the start of treatment, transfer a prototype of future structures using temporary materials. The article is devoted to the possibility of using a 3D printer for the manufacture of long-wearing crowns. The application of new technologies in dentistry is considered using the example of 3D printing. Possibilities of this technology and the specifics of working with it. Objective: to assess the possibilities of clinical application of long-term wearing crowns made by 3D printing. Methodology. Based on the literature review, and the use of scientific search bibliographic databases: PubMed, eLibrary, Medline, Google Academy, the availability and prevalence of 3D printing technology in dentistry was determined, and in particular its application for printing long-term crowns. Clinical fabrication of long-term crowns was carried out. Conclusions. The emergence of innovative technologies in dentistry, in particular 3D printing, and new materials, are currently attracting active interest from the dental community. 3D modeling and printing are becoming more and more confident in our daily life every day. A thorough study of this method is undoubtedly promising, but it requires deep immersion in the problem, clinical and laboratory observations of structures made of materials for long-term wear.

Evaluation of training in dental technology at the Medical College - Varna in a pandemic

The rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic internationally has led to measures such as social exclusion and the closure of schools at the end of March 2020. This has forced universities to move to the use of online learning platforms, regardless of the experience that teachers and students have in the field of modern technology, as well as their willingness to use them. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the training in dental technology at the Medical College - Varna in a pandemic. Material and methods: The opinion of the students of dental technology for their education at the Medical College - Varna was evaluated through an anonymous questionnaire. The results were statistically processed with SPSS v. 20.0 using variation, dispersion and comparative analyzes. Results: The study covered 69.80% of students enrolled in first, second and third year. 83.8% of the students believe that the information provided to them in the lecture course is up-to-date, 67.6% are satisfied with the organization of the practical exercises, and the same percentage are satisfied with the acquired practical skills. Conclusion: Students are also satisfied with the facilities provided by the university. Although part-time learning is temporary and alternative learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it can be considered a promising aspect of the formal integration and generation of online schools and programs. The success of this training is related to the integration of innovative online techniques (eg short personalized video lectures, interactive projects, discussion forums and information review tools), which includes solutions and suggestions for interactive teaching in teaching and learning.

Opinion of students under dental technology programme, Medical university of varna On including in the curriculum a new course of training - Introduction to scientific research

Modern university education involves both learning and research, and the research process itself needs to be accomplished with the participation of students. Our aim was to investigate the opinion of the students under Dental Technology Programme on including in the curriculum a new course of training – Introduction to Scientific Research. To achieve the goal, we used the following methods: study of literary sources and documents, anonymous survey conducted from the academic year of 2012/2013 to 2017/2018. The target group were 35,60% of the students who studied Dental Technology during the above years. A large part of the respondents support the new training course - Introduction to Scientific Research. After a discussion in the training sectors and a vote of the College Board, it was included into the curricula of five training programmes of Medical College at Medical University - Varna.

Trends In The Development Of The Techologies For Fabrication Of Complete Dentures For Patients With Total Tooth Loss

Total tooth loss leads to significant changes in the maxillofacial region, which affects the masticatory function, speech, esthetic outlook, reflexes and the human psyche. The facial frame obtains the so-called “ageing look”. The extraoral changes, especially after a quick complete tooth loss, are shocking both for the patients and for those around them. The treatment plan for these patients requires the fabrication of complete dentures. The technologies for the production of this type of construction have undergone their own evolution. From the classic cuvette technique with acrylic plastic to the digital fabrication with the help of CAD-CAM milling and 3D printing. The aim of the current article is to trace the development of the technologies for fabrication of complete dentures in patients after total tooth loss highlighting the main trends. Today, 50 million dentures are produced globally every year, but only 1% are fabricated with the help of digital instruments. The traditional denture fabrication is a time- and labor-consuming process. The production process for the construction of a digital denture is different from the traditional one. The digital denture production is the future of dental technology. It has the potential to provide a lower price and higher quality care for the patients. Digital technologies do not deprive complete dentures of the possibility of customization. Digital denture designs can be used multiple times but, when needed, can be altered. The endurance and mechanical properties and bio-compatibility of the constructions are much better compared to those fabricated using conventional technologies. Digitization and 3D printing are a means to a reliable, predictable and highly esthetic treatment.

Implant-supported overdentures: part 2.

The ability to provide high-quality complete dentures is a key skill for the general dental practitioner. The introduction of new implant attachments and dental technologies has opened the possibility of a wide variety of treatment options when considering implant-supported overdentures (ISODs).A thorough understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of ISODs is essential to ensuring appropriate treatment planning, consent and maintenance. Part one of this paper discussed the role of ISODs and the different attachment systems available. This second part will explore the relevant treatment planning considerations and maintenance requirements.

Bending strength of ceramic compounds bonded with silicate-based glass solder

AbstractIn the field of dental technology, the length of ceramic pontics is limited to avoid mechanical failure. To reduce thermal-induced residual stress within the ceramic, using smaller subcomponents and subsequent bonding with silicate-based glass solder may be a favorable approach. Thus, the bending strength of zirconia compounds bonded with different silicate-based glass solders was investigated. For this purpose, rectangular specimens made of zirconia were bonded by glass solder. Parameters such as the scarf angle (45° and 90°), two different glass solders, as well as the soldering process (pressure and surface treatment) were varied. All specimens were subjected to quasi-static four-point bending tests according to DIN EN ISO 843-1. Additionally, the quality of the glass solder connection was evaluated usingμCT and fractography. In the present study, zirconia compounds were sucessful bonded of zirconia compounds using silicate-based glass solder was. No significant differences in terms of bending strength were observed with respect to the different bonding parameters analyzed. The highest bending strength of 130.6 ± 50.5 MPa was achieved with a 90° scarf angle combined with ethanol treatment of the specimens before soldering and an additional application of a pressure of 2 bars in a dental pressure pot before subsequent soldering. Nevertheless, the bending strengths were highly decreased when compared to monolithic zirconia specimens (993.4 ± 125.5 MPa).

Influence of pandemic on dental laboratory technology externship experiences.

Influence of pandemic on dental laboratory technology externship experiences.

Dental education changed by COVID-19: Student\u2019s perceptions and attitudes

BackgroundDental students have encountered changes in the teaching format amid the SARS CoV-2 pandemic. This study aims to evaluate the attitudes of dental students of one medical university toward online courses and compare them with those of non-dental students amid the SARS CoV-2 pandemic.MethodsA cross-sectional survey with a self-report online questionnaire was conducted at the medical university in May 2020 in Taipei. Students from the School of Dentistry, School of Dental Technology, and School of Oral Hygiene Study were enrolled in our survey.ResultsIn total, 473 students responded to the survey, 318 (67.2%) of whom were dental students. Overall, 366 (77%) students agreed with the change to online learning. Only 10.4% of students thought that dental professional courses with a laboratory format could be changed to online courses. Dental students were significantly more worried than non-dental students about being infected with COVID-19 and about the COVID-19 pandemic continuing.ConclusionsIn conclusion, changing to online learning seems to be perceived as feasible by students. However, more discussion about changing dental professional courses with a laboratory format to online courses considering the attitudes from students is needed.

Combining Ergonomic Risk Assessment (RULA) with Inertial Motion Capture Technology in Dentistry-Using the Benefits from Two Worlds.

Traditional ergonomic risk assessment tools such as the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) are often not sensitive enough to evaluate well-optimized work routines. An implementation of kinematic data captured by inertial sensors is applied to compare two work routines in dentistry. The surgical dental treatment was performed in two different conditions, which were recorded by means of inertial sensors (Xsens MVN Link). For this purpose, 15 (12 males/3 females) oral and maxillofacial surgeons took part in the study. Data were post processed with costume written MATLAB® routines, including a full implementation of RULA (slightly adjusted to dentistry). For an in-depth comparison, five newly introduced levels of complexity of the RULA analysis were applied, i.e., from lowest complexity to highest: (1) RULA score, (2) relative RULA score distribution, (3) RULA steps score, (4) relative RULA steps score occurrence, and (5) relative angle distribution. With increasing complexity, the number of variables times (the number of resolvable units per variable) increased. In our example, only significant differences between the treatment concepts were observed at levels that are more complex: the relative RULA step score occurrence and the relative angle distribution (level 4 + 5). With the presented approach, an objective and detailed ergonomic analysis is possible. The data-driven approach adds significant additional context to the RULA score evaluation. The presented method captures data, evaluates the full task cycle, and allows different levels of analysis. These points are a clear benefit to a standard, manual assessment of one main body position during a working task.

Spotlight on the School of Dental Nursing and Technology

Ellen Davison shares her experience working as a course provider for NEBDN

PLASMA AIDS DENTAL BONDING

Here Peter Swanson, managing director of Intertronics, discusses cold atmospheric plasma technology and its applications in dental technology.