Dental Technology Research Articles

The power of light - From dental materials processing to diagnostics and therapeutics.

Harnessing the power of light and its photonic energy is a powerful tool in biomedical applications. Its use ranges from biomaterials processing and fabrication of polymers to diagnostics and therapeutics. Dental light curable materials have evolved over several decades and now offer very fast (≤ 10 s) and reliable polymerization through depth (4-6 mm thick). This has been achieved by developments on two fronts: (1) chemistries with more efficient light absorption characteristics (camphorquinone [CQ], ~30 L mol-1 cm1 [ʎmax 470 nm]; monoacylphosphine oxides [MAPO], ~800 L mol-1 cm-1 [ʎmax 385 nm]; bisacylphosphine oxide [BAPO], ~1,000 L mol-1 cm-1 [ʎmax 385 nm]) as well mechanistically efficient and prolonged radical generation processes during and after light irradiation, and; (2) introducing light curing technologies (light emitting diodes [LEDs] and less common lasers) with higher powers (≤ 2 W), better spectral range using multiple diodes (short: 390-405 nm; intermediate: 410-450 nm; and long: 450-480 nm), and better spatial power distribution (i.e. homogenous irradiance). However, adequate cure of materials falls short for several reasons, including improper selection of materials and lights, limitations in the chemistry of the materials, and limitations in delivering light through depth. Photonic energy has further applications in dentistry which include transillumination for diagnostics, and therapeutic applications that include photodynamic therapy, photobiomodulation, and photodisinfection. Light interactions with materials and biological tissues are complex and it is important to understand the advantages and limitations of these interactions for successful treatment outcomes. This article highlights the advent of photonic technologies in dentistry, its applications, the advantages and limitations, and possible future developments.

Eye-Tracking Technology in Dentistry: A Review of Literature.

This narrative review explores the integration of eye-tracking technology in dentistry, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of its current applications and potential benefits. The review begins by elucidating the fundamental principles of eye tracking, encompassing the various eye-tracking methods and devices commonly used in dental research. It then delves into the role of eye tracking in dental education, where the technology offers a unique perspective on students' visual attention during training and skill acquisition. Moreover, the review examines how eye tracking can aid in assessing and improving dental practitioners' clinical performance, shedding light on areas of improvement and expertise. In patient care, the application of eye-tracking technology offers significant potential. By analyzing patients' gaze patterns and visual focus during dental procedures, clinicians can gain valuable insights into their experiences, identifying sources of anxiety and discomfort. This newfound understanding can pave the way for more patient-centric care and optimized treatment plans. The review also explores the application of eye-tracking technology in designing and evaluating dental interfaces and equipment. By assessing visual ergonomics and usability, researchers can develop user-friendly instruments that enhance dental professionals' workflow and efficiency. However, despite its promise, integrating eye tracking in dentistry is not without challenges. Technical limitations, data analysis complexities, and ethical considerations require careful attention to ensure this technology's ethical and responsible use. In conclusion, this narrative review highlights the growing significance of eye-tracking technology in dentistry. Its applications span dental education, clinical practice, and patient care, holding immense potential to revolutionize how dental procedures are conducted, evaluated, and experienced. Nevertheless, further research and collaboration between dental professionals and eye-tracking experts are necessary to unlock the technology's benefits and ensure its seamless integration into dental practices.

Clinical Applications of 3D-Printed Polymers in Dentistry: A Scoping Review.

The aim of this scoping review is to categorize 3D-printing applications of polymeric materials into those where there is evidence to support their clinical application and to list the clinical applications that require a greater evidence base or further development before adoption. An electronic search on PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus (Elsevier), and Cochrane Library databases was conducted, including articles written in English and published between January 2003 and September 2023. The search terms were: ((3D printing) OR (3-dimensional printing) OR (three dimensional printing) OR (additive manufacturing)) AND ((polymer) OR (resin)) AND (dent*). Case reports, in vitro, in situ, ex vivo, or clinical trials focused on applications of 3D printing with polymers in dentistry were included. Review articles, systematic reviews, and articles comparing material properties without investigation on clinical application and performance/accuracy were excluded. The search provided 3,070 titles, and 969 were duplicates and removed. A total of 2,101 records were screened during the screening phase, and 1,628 records were excluded based on title/abstract. In the eligibility phase, of the 473 full-text articles assessed for eligibility, 254 articles were excluded. During the inclusion phase, a total of 219 studies were included in qualitative synthesis. There is lack of clinical evidence for the use of 3D-printing technologies in dentistry. Current evidence, when investigating clinical outcomes only, would indicate non-inferiority of 3D-printed polymeric materials for applications including diagnostic models, temporary prostheses, custom trays, and positioning/surgical guides/stents.

Effect of wall thickness of 3D-printed models on resisting deformation from thermal forming in-office aligners.

Fabricating clear aligners by thermoforming three-dimensional printed dental models requires a high degree of accuracy. It is unknown whether model thickness affects the accuracy when used to thermoform aligners. This research utilizes three-dimensional printed models made with differing wall thicknesses to determine its effect on their ability to withstand deformation during aligner fabrication. A total of 50 models of different wall thickness (10 each of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 mm, and solid) were printed using model resin (Model V2, Formlabs) on a low-force stereolithography printer (Form 3B, Formlabs). Aligners were then fabricated using a thermal pressure forming machine (Biostar V, Great Lakes Dental Technologies) utilizing 25 s cycles to adapt 0.030″ acrylic sheets (Invisacryl, Great Lakes Dental Technologies), then removed from the models and sprayed with a contrast powder (Optispray, Dentsply Sirona) to aid in scanning with an intraoral scanner (CEREC Primescan, Dentsply Sirona). Each aligner's data was then compared to the original file used for printing with 3D comparison software (Geomagic Control X, 3D Systems). The results show model thickness greater than or equal to 2.0 mm produced clinically acceptable results within the margin of error (0.3 mm). A total of 0.5 mm thickness failed to withstand thermal forming in 4 of the 10 trials. A total of 0.5 mm produced 27.56% of results in tolerance, 1.0 mm produced 75.66% of results in tolerance, 1.5 mm had 80.38% of results in tolerance, 86.82% of 2 mm models were in tolerance, and solid had 96.45% of results in tolerance. Hollow models of thicknesses 2.0 mm and solid models produced clinically acceptable aligners while utilizing less resin per unit compared to solid models, thus being more cost effective, time efficient and eco-friendly. Therefore, a recommendation can be made to print hollow models with a shell thickness of greater than 2.0 mm for aligner fabrication.

The Digital Era Heralds a Paradigm Shift in Dentistry: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background The transformation of dental practice from conventional methods to digital technology has been widely discussed. This study aimed to examine the awareness, understanding, and attitudes towards the use of digital technology in dentistry, with a particular focus on computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving a questionnaire distributed to a diverse group of participants from the dental field. The questionnaire covered aspects of digital technology in dentistry, including awareness, perceived usefulness, understanding of CAD/CAM technology, perceived benefits and shortcomings, system awareness, and the impact on clinical decision-making. Results Almost all participants (99.3%) reported being aware of digital technology in dentistry. The perceived utility of digital technology varied widely, but it was considered particularly useful for specific dental procedures. Most of the respondents (948 out of 953) were aware of CAD/CAM technology, and many acknowledged its benefits, including fewer appointments, less chairside time, and greater precision. However, high cost, lack of knowledge, and preference for traditional methods were identified as barriers to adoption. Most participants believed that CAD/CAM would influence clinical decision-making and expressed interest in integrating it into their regular workflow. A majority had attended CAD/CAM training programs and believed there was a need to increase education on CAD/CAM during undergraduate and postgraduate courses. While a significant majority agreed that digital technology was the future of dentistry, a substantial number also expressed reservations. Conclusion The study concluded that there is a high level of awareness and readiness to adopt digital technology in dentistry. However, its perceived utility varied among participants, and several barriers to adoption were identified, indicating the need for expanded education and training. Despite some resistance, there is a growing recognition of the potential benefits of CAD/CAM technology and a trend towards integrating it into regular practice.

Light-Emitting-Diode photochemical effects in dentistry: an overview

This work aims to show the important role that might be played by the daily utilization of LED technology in dentistry, as well as to suggest the advantages of the application of Light-Emitting-Diode (LED) Photobiomodulation (PBM) and PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT) for the treatment of a large number of oral diseases. It presents an overview of the most recent and interesting studies on PBM and PDT by LED light in periodontics, endodontics, orthodontics, implantology, and Oral Medicine. LED light utilization offers several advantages compared to Laser: the possibility to treat large surfaces, low cost, and safety for patients and operators. The use of LED in dentistry may represent a great help for treating a large number of diseases with low costs and without side effects.

Virtual and Interprofessional Objective Structured Clinical Examination in Dentistry and Dental Technology: Development and User Evaluations.

Interprofessional education (IPE) facilitates interprofessional collaborative practice (IPCP) to encourage teamwork among dental care professionals and is increasingly becoming a part of training programs for dental and dental technology students. However, the focus of previous IPE and IPCP studies has largely been on subjective student and instructor perceptions without including objective assessments of collaborative practice as an outcome measure. The purposes of this study were to develop the framework for a novel virtual and interprofessional objective structured clinical examination (viOSCE) applicable to dental and dental technology students, to assess the effectiveness of the framework as a tool for measuring the outcomes of IPE, and to promote IPCP among dental and dental technology students. The framework of the proposed novel viOSCE was developed using the modified Delphi method and then piloted. The lead researcher and a group of experts determined the content and scoring system. Subjective data were collected using the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale and a self-made scale, and objective data were collected using examiner ratings. Data were analyzed using nonparametric tests. We successfully developed a viOSCE framework applicable to dental and dental technology students. Of 50 students, 32 (64%) participated in the pilot study and completed the questionnaires. On the basis of the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale, the subjective evaluation indicated that teamwork skills were improved, and the only statistically significant difference in participant motivation between the 2 professional groups was in the mutual evaluation scale (P=.004). For the viOSCE evaluation scale, the difference between the professional groups in removable prosthodontics was statistically significant, and a trend for negative correlation between subjective and objective scores was noted, but it was not statistically significant. The results confirm that viOSCE can be used as an objective evaluation tool to assess the outcomes of IPE and IPCP. This study also revealed an interesting relationship between mutual evaluation and IPCP results, further demonstrating that the IPE and IPCP results urgently need to be supplemented with objective evaluation tools. Therefore, the implementation of viOSCE as part of a large and more complete objective structured clinical examination to test the ability of students to meet undergraduate graduation requirements will be the focus of our future studies.

Professional self-determination of future dentists in the modern realities of Ukraine.

Aim: To research how the future dentists' professional self-determination (reflects the cognitive-reflexive component of higher medical education applicants' readiness to use digital technologies in their professional activities) develops within the formation of information technology competence in the modern realities of Ukraine. Materials and Methods: The author's questionnaire consisted of 15 questions. The questionnaire surveys covered 98 future dentists who studied 'Medical Informatics' and 'Information Technology in Dentistry' at the Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University in the September-December 2017-2018 and September- December 2022-2023 academic years. The research results were assessed according to the algorithm described. The research used such methods as analysis, synthesis, comparison, concretisation, systematisation, and generalisation, as well as methods of mathematical statistics for evaluating data, namely correlation analysis, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Cronbach's alpha, Fisher's test (F-test of equality of variances), Student's t-test and ranking. Results: The research found positive dynamics of the professional self-determination levels (in 2022 compared to 2017, the low level decreased by 20.5%, the satisfactory level - by 19.0%, the average level increased by 20.6%, the high level - by 18.9%) and their quality, which within the research increased by 39.5%. Conclusions: By forming information technology competence, future dentists changing the priorities of professional self-determination in the modern realities of Ukraine and acquiring readiness (within the cognitive-reflexive component) to use digital technologies in professional activities.

Tooth Splinting: Implementing a 3D-printed Guide with Pre-defined Composite Resin Reservoirs: A Digital Workflow.

The integration of digital technologies in dentistry has led to the development of various techniques to facilitate tooth splinting. In the present digital workflow, the advantages of the virtual treatment plan were combined with the versatility of the commercially available tooth splinting materials. An intraoral scanner was utilized to digitize both arches along with the patient's occlusion, eliminating the need for models from physical impressions. A template based on the virtual design of the splint was 3D-printed and served as a guide to individualize a twisted wire. The bent wire was transferred and bonded, using a 3D-printed template with pre-defined reservoirs for the composite resin. Digital technology has been implemented for tooth splinting, by fabricating a splint after its virtual design. However, the digital fabrication of the metal splints is available for limited splinting materials and the service is only provided by specific centers around the world.

Application and Prospect of Virtual Reality Technology in Dentistry in the Internet Era

Abstract The development of virtual reality technology promotes the progress of medicine and has a pivotal role in dentistry. This paper focuses on collision detection and force feedback haptic perception for oral virtual surgery. The study uses a combination of octree and AABB enclosing box for collision detection, and a force feedback computation method based on meshless SPH to construct a force feedback model after collision detection for oral virtual surgery. This paper’s octree AABB structure algorithm achieves the shortest time in collision detection experiments, with a 29.82% and 18.03% increase over the traditional AABB algorithm and binary tree structure, respectively. The accuracy of the feedback force in this paper has been improved by 2.18%, which is closer to the operation effect of actual clinical surgery. The model presented in this paper has specific feasibility and accuracy, and can be used for collision detection and force feedback sensing in oral virtual surgery.

Essentials of social medicine and medical ethics: A book review - Lydia Katrova: Essentials of social medicine and medical ethics, Lydia Katrova-Leading Technologies in Dentistry, Sofia, Bulgaria, 2016

Essentials of social medicine and medical ethics: A book review - Lydia Katrova: Essentials of social medicine and medical ethics, Lydia Katrova-Leading Technologies in Dentistry, Sofia, Bulgaria, 2016

Application of 4D printing in dentistry: A narrative review.

4D printing is an innovative digital manufacturing technology that originated by adding a fourth dimension, i.e., time, to pre-existing 3D technology or additive manufacturing (AM). AM is a fast-growing technology used in many fields, which develops accurate 3D objects based on models designed by computers. Dentistry is one such field in which 3D technology is used for manufacturing objects in periodontics (scaffolds, local drug-delivering agents, augmentation of ridges), implants, prosthodontics (partial and complete dentures, obturators), oral surgery for reconstructing jaw, and orthodontics. Dynamism is a vital property needed for the survival of materials used in the oral cavity since the oral cavity is constantly subjected to various insults. 4D printing technology has overcome the disadvantages of 3D printing technology, i.e., it cannot create dynamic objects. Therefore, constant knowledge of 4D technology is required. 3D printing technology has shortcomings, which are discussed in this review. This review summaries various printing technologies, materials used, stimuli, and potential applications of 4D technology in dentistry.

Crown Lengthening by Conventional Diode Laser and Blue Laser: A Randomised Clinical Trial

Introduction: Crown lengthening is a reliable procedure that enables the restoration of teeth with a short clinical crown, extensive subgingival caries, and correction of excessive gingival display for aesthetic purposes. Blue laser, a recent technology in dentistry, has shown significant effectiveness at low power settings, promoting favourable wound healing effects. Aim: To compare the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores and wound healing outcomes between blue laser and denlase in performing crown lengthening procedures. Materials and Methods: A randomised clinical trial was conducted in the Department of Periodontics and Implantology, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh, India, involving 14 patients who were divided into two groups. Participants were recruited from September 2021 to April 2022. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethics and Review Board. Group-A underwent crown lengthening using blue laser (445 nm), while Group-B received treatment with denlase (980 nm). VAS scores and the wound healing index were recorded and compared between the two groups at baseline, 10 days, and one month after the surgery. Statistical tests such as the Mann-Whitney U test, unpaired t-test, and repeated measures ANOVA were used for analysis. Results: The study revealed a statistically significant difference (p-value=0.006) in VAS scores between the blue laser group (mean value of 0.5) and the denlase group (mean value of 1.3). However, statistically significant differences in Wachtel’s early wound healing index were not observed in either of the groups. Conclusion: Blue laser treatment was found to be more comfortable for patients, as indicated by the lower VAS scores. Both groups demonstrated good wound healing properties based on Wachtel’s early wound healing index, with no significant difference between them. It is important to note that literature on blue laser technology is still in its early stages and requires further comprehensive investigation.

Prosthodontic Research in the Digital Era: Current Trends and Future Prospects

Prosthodontic Research in the Digital Era: Current Trends and Future Prospects

Bibliometric analysis of zirconia publications between 1980 and 2021: Global productivity and publication trends.

Purpose With an increase in patients' aesthetic demands and advancements in dental technologies, tooth-colored materials have grown in popularity. This study aimed to statistically analyze the scientific output of zirconia.Methods Articles published between 1980 and 2021 were downloaded from the Web of Science database and analyzed using various statistical/bibliometric methods. Correlations were evaluated using the Spearman's coefficient. Time-series forecasting was used to predict the number of articles in the coming years.Results Of the 18773 recordings, 16703 (88.9%) were articles. China contributed the most to the literature (n=3345, 20%). The Chinese Academy of Sciences was the most active institution (n=666). Furthermore, Ceramics International was the journal that published the most articles (N=611). The Journal of Catalysis was the journal with the highest average number of citations per article (average number of citations, 81.4). A high level of significant correlation was found between the number of articles produced by different countries on zirconia and gross domestic product (r=0.742, P<0.001).Conclusions It is expected that zirconia research will continue to increase parallel with the increase in aesthetic expectations. Recent trends include dental implants, resin cement, surface roughness, shear bond strength, monolithic zirconia, osseointegration, flexural strength, aging, geochemistry, zircon U-Pb dating, detrital zircon, adhesion, computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacturing, bond strength, adsorption, titanium, spark plasma sintering, corrosion, SEM, zirconium dioxide, surface modification, XRD, finite-element analysis, and yttria-stabilized zirconia. Clinicians and scientists interested in zirconia can refer to this comprehensive article as a useful resource for the relevant global and multidisciplinary outcomes.

Digital photography: A boon to dentistry

Abstract Dental technology improvements have reshaped the concept of photography to powerful medium of expression and communication. Digital photography is one of the most common clinical applications of computerization in dentistry nowadays. It aids in the discovery of hidden and undetected flaws in teeth and other areas of the cavity or smile. The dental world is made up of microstructures that must be meticulously documented in order to execute patient education, record documentation, and treatment. This review focuses on the important applications of digital photography in dentistry and the potential impact on patient compliance with dental care.

Influence of Cavity Designs on Fracture Resistance: Analysis of the Role of Different Access Techniques to the Endodontic Cavity in the Onset of Fractures: Narrative Review.

In recent years, new endodontic access techniques have been proposed with the aim of preserving as much dental tissue as possible for subsequent prosthetic rehabilitation. It has indeed been demonstrated that the success of this therapy is essential and dependent on the proper execution of endodontic cavity access. The main objective is to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the new access techniques in endodontics in order to guide clinical practice toward a more precise and qualitative approach. As of today, there is still no universally standardized and recognized taxonomy for the different access cavity designs described in the literature. It has been observed that there are various nomenclatures in the literature. The cavity access designs described mainly in the literature can be categorized into six groups: Traditional Access Cavity (TradAC), Conservative Access Cavity (ConsAC), Ultra-Conservative Access Cavity (UltraAC), Truss Access Cavity (TrussAC), Caries-Guided Access Cavity (CariesAC), and Restoration-Guided Access Cavity (RestoAC). The drafting of this narrative review followed the indications of the SANRA (Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles). A search for scientific articles was conducted on the PubMed and SCOPUS databases, using the following search query: ((truss) OR (conservative) OR (ninja) OR (traditional)) AND access AND endodontic. The initial search yielded a total of 941 articles. After removing duplicates using EndNote X8 software, the number of articles decreased to 785. By applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 64 articles were obtained. Among these, 20 articles were finally selected for the purposes of this review, 11 literature reviews and 9 ex-vivo studies. Studies on fracture resistance have yielded heterogeneous results. For anterior teeth, studies do not find a significant relationship between different endodontic access cavities and fracture resistance. However, in the posterior sector, there is more discrepancy and many positive results for minimally invasive access cavities seem to relate to molars. Therefore, it can be concluded that the evidence supporting the influence of endodontic preparations on dental fracture resistance is still limited. Research on new endodontic access techniques holds significant clinical relevance in contemporary endodontics. The evolution of dental technologies, including cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and computer-guided cavity preparation, has ushered in the era of minimally invasive endodontics. This shift aims to enhance the precision and quality of endodontic treatments while preserving maximum healthy dental tissue for subsequent prosthetic rehabilitation. The success of endodontic therapy is closely tied to the proper execution of access to the endodontium, influencing all phases of endodontic treatment and playing a role in determining fracture resistance for subsequent rehabilitation phases. The dichotomy between traditional and minimally invasive approaches has spurred clinical investigations. Specifically, within the scientific community, doubts have been raised about the potential limitations of minimally invasive access cavities. Concerns include their impact on canal orifice localization and raise questions about their influence on the overall success of endodontic treatment. This review holds clinical significance as it sheds light on the evolving landscape of endodontic access techniques, analyzing the anatomical trajectory, carefully examines the transition to minimally invasive approaches, and critically assesses existing scientific evidence and concerns surrounding these developments, contributing to an informed decision-making process in clinical practice.

Transforming Prosthodontics and oral implantology using robotics and artificial intelligence.

The current review focuses on how artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics can be applied to the field of Prosthodontics and oral implantology. The classification and methodologies of AI and application of AI and robotics in various aspects of Prosthodontics is summarized. The role of AI has potentially expanded in dentistry. It plays a vital role in data management, diagnosis, and treatment planning and administrative tasks. It has widespread applications in Prosthodontics owing to its immense diagnostic capability and possible therapeutic application. AI and robotics are next-generation technologies that are opening new avenues of growth and exploration for Prosthodontics. The current surge in digital human-centered automation has greatly benefited the dental field, as it transforms towards a new robotic, machine learning, and artificial intelligence era. The application of robotics and AI in the dental field aims to improve dependability, accuracy, precision, and efficiency by enabling the widespread adoption of cutting-edge dental technologies in future. Hence, the objective of the current review was to represent literature relevant to the applications of robotics and AI and in the context of diagnosis and clinical decision-making and predict successful treatment in Prosthodontics and oral implantology.

Relationship between among personality type, resilience, and the college life of dental technology students

Relationship between among personality type, resilience, and the college life of dental technology students

Study on the effect of clinical practice satisfaction and major satisfaction on employment intention of students in the department of dental technology who experienced clinical practice

Study on the effect of clinical practice satisfaction and major satisfaction on employment intention of students in the department of dental technology who experienced clinical practice