Natural Teeth Research Articles

Amelogenin-Inspired Autoadaptive Peptide in a Caries Microenvironment Facilitates Long-Term Protection of the Dentin-Pulp Complex.

Dental caries, one of the most prevalent infectious diseases, is the primary contributor to the early loss of natural teeth and is a significant public health issue. Known as the tooth's bioactive core, the dentin-pulp complex (DPCX) comprises tightly connected hard and soft tissues that not only serve as a biological barrier for the inner tooth tissue but also produce reparative dentin following mild disruptions. While efforts to preserve DPCX are numerous, most strategies focus on temporary antibacterial measures, inflammation reduction, or tissue regeneration, lacking a comprehensive, long-lasting solution. In this study, TVH-19, an autoadaptive peptide mimicking the pH- and ion-responsive capacity of amelogenin, was designed to exert multifaceted preservation of DPCX, providing a comprehensive strategy for preserving vital pulp. Leveraging its unique amphiphilicity-related cell penetration and ion/pH-responsive self-assembly properties, TVH-19 outperforms conventional pulp preservation materials by being capable of rapid cell penetration, minimizing diffused side effects, providing environment-responsive self-assembly/disassembly for balanced long-term antibacterial and cell protection, and facilitating the formation of lysosomal-escaping intracellular aggregates for the continuous activation of PDGFRα+ dental pulp stem cells.

Key themes in periodontal treatment: Lessons learned from 40-year experiences.

Periodontitis is one of the most prevalent oral diseases with significant implications for systemic health. This study aims to explore themes influencing successful long-term outcomes in periodontal treatment through a historical lens, focusing on various factors influencing the longevity of periodontal health and dentition stability. Utilizing an inductive qualitative thematic analysis approach, this study utilized a retrospective chart review of 19 patient records spanning, on average, 40 years. Four major themes contributing to periodontal stability were identified: (1) adequate patient plaque control; (2) regular periodontal maintenance; (3) collaboration between hygienists and periodontists; and (4) the application of various periodontist/dentist-performed procedures. Current findings underscore the importance of these factors in preserving patients' periodontal health by emphasizing conservative treatment approaches in the maintenance and retention of the natural dentition. Adequate patient plaque control is essential for maintaining a patient's periodontal health and dentition long-term. A regular periodontal maintenance schedule should be assigned and modified as necessary for each individual patient's care. Collaborative care with hygienist colleagues and ensuring there are flexible treatment options for patients can lead to successful treatment outcomes when hygiene alone is not sufficient. Periodontitis is a widespread oral disease with significant systemic health implications. This study examined patient records to identify factors contributing to long-term periodontal stability and maintenance of teeth. By analyzing 19 patient charts over an average of 40 years using a qualitative approach, four key themes were identified in successful patient treatments: effective patient plaque control, regular periodontal maintenance, collaboration between dental hygienists and periodontists, and the addition of other approaches by periodontists and dentists when necessary. The study underscores the importance of these factors in preserving periodontal health and retaining natural teeth with conservative treatment approaches. This research highlights the critical role of sustained, multifaceted dental care and professional collaboration in achieving successful long-term oral and systemic health outcomes.

Efficacy of Different Irrigation Needles and Ultrasonic Activation on Calcium Hydroxide Removal: A Micro-CT Study Using 3D-Printed Endodontic Models

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of different irrigation needles and passive ultrasonic activation in removing Ca(OH)2 from an endodontic model that duplicated a root canal configuration of a human natural tooth. MethodsAn extracted human maxillary premolar was subjected to root canal preparation and scanned with microcomputed tomography. A 3-dimensional reconstruction model of the natural tooth was printed to endodontic models using a polyjet printer. The root canals of the models were filled with Ca(OH)2 paste and divided into 2 groups based on the irrigation protocol: conventional syringe-needle irrigation (conventional group) and passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) group. Each group was subdivided into 3 groups (n = 10) according to the type of needle: half-cut, side-vented, and TruNatomy irrigation needle. Microcomputed tomographyimaging was used to assess the percentage of reduction of Ca(OH)2. Data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance test (α = .05). ResultsThe side-vented and TruNatomy irrigation needles showed significantly higher percentage reductions than the half-cut needle (P < .05) in the conventional irrigation group. The PUI group showed significantly higher percentage reductions of Ca(OH)2 than the conventional group regardless of the type of needle (P < .05). However, no significant difference was found among the needles in the PUI group. ConclusionsThe type of irrigation needle and the use of PUI influenced the removal efficacy of Ca(OH)2. PUI enhanced the removal of Ca(OH)2 regardless of the type of irrigation needle.

Clinically estimated signs of hyposalivation in older adult residents of long-term care.

To assess whether the estimation of clinical signs of hyposalivation is applicable in recognising long-term care facility (LTCF) residents with poor oral health, and which individual characteristics are important in that respect. A common inconvenience among older adults, dry mouth, particularly hyposalivation, can cause many complications, such as greater susceptibility to root caries and oral infections, and it can lead to further deterioration of oral health. However, very little is known about the association of clinically assessed signs of hyposalivation with the oral health status of LTCF residents. The study sample comprised 362 individuals (dentate n = 266, edentate n = 96) aged 65 or older. The examinations included a questionnaire and clinical oral examination. Participants were categorised into three groups based on clinically assessed oral dryness: normal salivation (n = 83, 22.9%), lower salivation (n = 182, 50.3%) and dry mouth (n = 97, 26.8%). The association between signs of dry mouth with aspects to oral health was evaluated and further tested with logistic regression analysis. The signs of oral dryness were observed among females, those with dementia, and those with longer stays in the current facility. Root caries (odds ratio, OR 1.3) and diagnosis of periodontitis (OR 4.1), together with several individual periodontal parameters, as well as having less than ten occluding pairs of natural teeth (OR 3.5) were associated with dry mouth. Edentate participants showed an increased likelihood of having dry mouth with advancing age, and lesions on the lips were associated with dry mouth with OR 3.0. Clinical estimation of signs of oral dryness can be a useful adjunct in evaluating the oral health status of dentate LTCF residents. Poor oral health was a frequent finding, especially among dentate LTCF residents with signs of dry mouth.

Do Not Extract Teeth which you could Restore Perhaps you do?

The Kurer Anchor System, a once widely used dental restoration method, offered a solution for retaining root canal posts in treated teeth. Despite its success in preserving natural teeth and providing a cost-effective alternative to implants, the system's popularity waned due to changes in the dental industry. This paper revisits the Kurer Anchor System, examining its clinical efficacy, economic advantages, and potential integration with modern dental practices. Emphasizing the importance of implant surface cleanliness, the paper advocates for the revival of the Kurer Anchor System in contemporary dentistry. The conclusion underscores the need for educating dental professionals about this system's benefits and proper application.

Nanostructured Implant-Tissue Interface Assessment Using a Three-Dimensional Gingival Tissue Equivalent.

Improved soft tissue integration (STI) around dental implants is key for implant success. The formation of an early and long-lasting transmucosal seal around the implant abutment might help to prevent peri-implantitis, one of the major causes of late implant failure. In natural teeth, collagen fibers are firmly inserted and fixed in the cementum of the tooth and emerge perpendicular to the gingival tissue. In contrast, around dental implants, collagen fibers run predominantly parallel to the implant surface, allowing bacterial migration into the peri-implant interface that might lead to peri-implantitis. Previous studies have shown that nanostructured Ti surfaces improve gingival cell response in monolayer cell cultures. Here, we aimed at evaluating the implant-tissue interface using a 3D gingival tissue equivalent (GTE). First, we evaluated the GTE response to a nanostructured (NN) and machined Ti surface after the stimulation with Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (LPS), to simulate peri-implantitis conditions. Thus, GTE viability, through MTT assay, the release of metalloproteinase-1 (MMP1) and its inhibitor (TIMP1) through ELISA, and the gene expression of extracellular matrix turnover genes by real-time RT-PCR were analyzed. Second, GTE-implant interaction was characterized by serial block face scanning electron microscopy, and collagen-1 orientation at the tissue-implant interface was analyzed by immunofluorescence. While a similar GTE response to LPS stimulation was found for both implant surfaces, a higher proportion of collagen oriented perpendicular to the implant was observed on the NN implant surface. Thus, our results indicate that the nanostructuration of titanium dental implant abutments could allow the correct orientation of collagen fibers and greater soft tissue sealing, while keeping biocompatibility levels and LPS response comparable.

Evaluating the tightness of proximal contact between natural tooth and adjacent implant supported prosthesis.

The changes in interproximal contact between implant supported prosthesis (ISP) and adjacent natural tooth is of interest to dentists. Hence, we evaluated the tightness of proximal contact (PCT) between adjacent natural tooth and ISP by applying a digital force gauge spanning over a period of 1.5 year with a regular follow-up of 3, 6, and 12 months.80 patients who received ISP were included in this study. In order to measure the PCT, every patient seated in the identical upright position in the dentist chair. The digital force gauge was used to take measurements for mesial PCT and distal PCT. The mesial as well as distal interproximal contacts was more tight as in case of natural tooth adjacent to other natural tooth as compared to interproximal contacts between ISP and adjacent natural tooth. It was also observed that as the time progressed there was decrease in PCT values in both categories. After 12 month follow up 30.6% cases in category 2 while 21.2% cases in category 1 showed complete loss of interproximal contact. There is significant change in proximal contact tightness in interproximal area between implant supported prosthesis and adjacent natural tooth over a period of time and necessary measures should be taken to prevent or reduce it.

Comparison of Two Clinical Approaches FDI Vs Cars Visual Criteria for Secondary Caries Evaluation in Permanent Posterior Teeth

Background: Secondary caries arise at the contact of a natural tooth and a prosthetic repair. The present investigation employed two clinical methodologies, namely Caries associated with restoration or sealants (CARS) and the International Dental Federation (FDI), to evaluate and manage secondary caries in permanent posterior teeth. Objective: The goal of this research is to compare the diagnostic efficacy of FDI and CARS visual criteria for assessing secondary caries in permanent posterior teeth, to identify the more reliable and effective clinical approach for improved treatment planning and patient outcomes. Method: This was conducted at the School of Dentistry Pakistan institute of medical sciences Islamabad, after approval from the ethical committee. The sample size is 160 patients. In this study, two clinical criteria being assessed included one representing the FDI system which includes the marginal staining, marginal adaptation, and caries’ recurrence, while another one was Caries associated with restoration or sealants (CARS) based on ICCMS (International Caries Classification and Management System) for evaluation and treatment of secondary caries. Results: A total 650 restorations were assessed, with a mean age of 30.83 years (SD±2.68). While comparing, there was a strong correlation to the presence of caries lesions (Rho=0.64), and for Marginal adaptation, it was (Rho= -0.45), which depicts a weak inverse correlation. There was a moderate correlation between the two criteria (Rho=0.64,) The majority of CARS visual criteria decisions recommended no treatment in comparison to FDI criteria Conclusion: It is concluded that the FDI system is a more aggressive approach, suggesting a higher number of restoration replacements than the CARS which is less invasive. As a result, the method used to assess secondary caries may result in more or less invasive suggestions for treatment.

Determination of the Color Change of Various Esthetic Monolithic Monochromatic Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing Materials.

Dental technology has developed materials for prosthetics that are very similar to natural teeth and offer a good balance between durability and esthetics; however, some of these materials are not very color-stable under the influence of external factors. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine and compare the color change (∆E00) of different esthetic monolithic monochromatic CAD/CAM materials after they have been thermocycled and treated with staining solutions. The color parameters were determined using a spectrophotometer on a white and black background. Five CAD/CAM materials were used for this study-CAD/CAM nanoceramic (GC Cerasmart270), CAD/CAM lithium disilicate ceramic (IPS e.max CAD), CAD/CAM polymer (Telio CAD), CAD/CAM composite (Tetric CAD) and CAD/CAM polymer-infiltrated ceramic (Vita Enamic). The test specimens produced were divided into groups and were thermocycled in distilled water. They were then stored for four weeks at 37 °C in either distilled water as a control liquid, black tea, instant coffee or red wine. The aim is also to evaluate the color changes as a function of the exposure time of the staining solutions. The results obtained were analyzed statistically. All CAD/CAM materials tend to discolor to varying degrees. Among the factors contributing to discoloration, red wine proved to be the most significant influencing factor. The conclusion from the results is that the color change is influenced by the type of material, the staining solution, the sample thickness, the color background and the aging time.

FLUORESCENT DIAGNOSTIC METHOD AS A TOOL FOR COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION OF THE HYGIENE OF NATURAL TEETH AND FIXED DENTAL PROSTHESIS CONSTRUCTIONS

This study focuses on the critical need for an oral care, especially when using fixed bridge prostheses. The analysis and impact of insufficient care for oral hygiene on the development of dental diseases and the need to develop effective methods for its assessment have been carried out. The research consists of the improvement of fluorescent diagnostics in orthopedic dentistry, as well as, in the development of an index for the assessment of the hygiene of natural teeth and fixed denture structures based on an in vivo experiment. This aims to improve the diagnosis of the condition of the oral cavity in patients with fixed prostheses, contributing to the improvement of the quality of their orthopedic treatment. Materials and methods: The use of fluorescent diagnostics with Rhodamine G dye allows to identify the presence of dental deposits under the influence of ultraviolet light. The technique involves treating teeth and dentures with a solution that enhances the visibility of dental plaque under ultraviolet light. Research results: The obtained research data confirm the high efficiency of the fluorescent technique in the detection of dental deposits, both on natural teeth and on the surfaces of fixed prostheses. Digital analysis allows you to visualize the specific graphic characteristics of the biofilm, which facilitates the adaptation of an individual approach. Conclusions: The conducted study demonstrates that the improved fluorescent method was extremely effective in determining the state of oral hygiene, effective both for the analysis of natural teeth and fixed prostheses. The proposed method allows you to determine the hygienic condition in detail, makes a significant contribution to the prevention of dental diseases and improves the optimization of medical interventions. The technique is easy to use, and the corresponding software is available for dentists. Further expansion of observations for the use of this technique in patients with a different orthopedic spectrum of needs is expected.

Fifteen-year recall period on zirconia-based single crowns and fixed dental prostheses. A prospective observational study

AimThe aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes of zirconia-based prostheses used for tooth-supported or implant-supported single crowns and fixed dental prostheses (FPD).MethodsThe authors conducted a prospective analysis of 562 zirconia core restorations supported by endodontically treated teeth or titanium implant in 276 patients in a general dental private practice, with a follow-up period of 15 years. The study was stopped after patients achieved 15 yrs of follow-up. The study analyzed the failure and complication rates of single and multiple crowns, based on Kaplan Meier analysis.ResultsDuring follow-up period, there were 26 complications and 156 failures. The crown level analysis revealed a cumulative failure rate of 28.33% and complication rate of 8.47% for zirconia crowns after 15 years. The complication rate was found to be higher for titanium implant-supported than for natural teeth-supported crowns. The different types of crown-based failure include: veener fracture 5.01% (N = 29), metal zirconia led to 14.85% (N = 86) loss of retention, and 1.73% (N = 10) loss of crown due to extraction.ConclusionBased on these findings, zirconia core restorations appear to be a reliable long-term solution for crowns and fixed dental prostheses.Clinical relevanceThe study suggests that zirconia restorations can be successfully used for long-term prostheses on natural teeth or implants supported. The study results provide clinicians valuable information when selecting prosthetic restorations material.

Novel Resin-Based Antibacterial Root Surface Coating Material to Combat Dental Caries.

Root caries caused by cariogenic bacteria are a burden on a large number of individuals worldwide, especially the elderly. Applying a protective coating to exposed root surfaces has the potential to inhibit the development of caries, thus preserving natural teeth. This study aimed to develop a novel antibacterial coating to combat root caries and evaluate its effectiveness using the antibacterial monomer dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM). DMAHDM was synthesized and incorporated into a resin consisting of 55.8% urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) and 44.2% TEG-DVBE (UV) at a 10% mass fraction of glass filler. Multiple concentrations of DMAHDM were tested for their impact on the resin's mechanical and physical properties. S. mutans biofilms grown on resin disks were analyzed for antibacterial efficacy. Cytotoxicity was assessed against human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). The results showed an 8-log reduction in colony-forming units (CFUs) against S. mutans biofilm (mean ± sd; n = 6) (p < 0.05) when 5% DMAHDM was incorporated into the UV resin. There was a 90% reduction in metabolic activity and lactic acid production. A low level of cytotoxicity against HGF was observed without compromising the physical and mechanical properties of the resin. This coating material demonstrated promising physical properties, potent antibacterial effects, and low toxicity, suggesting its potential to protect exposed roots from caries in various dental procedures and among elderly individuals with gingival recession.

Enhancing anterior maxillary esthetics: A case report

This case study delves into the complex process of esthetic restoration in the anterior maxilla, highlighting the careful planning and precise execution needed to achieve optimal results. Tarting with a thorough assessment of the patient's dental health, including bone structure and soft tissue condition, a customized treatment plan was crafted through the collaborative efforts of the implant surgeon and restorative dentist. The surgical placement of a single tooth implant was performed with precision, ensuring optimal positioning and angulation to achieve natural-looking results while preserving the surrounding tissues. Prosthetic restoration utilized carefully chosen materials and techniques to integrate seamlessly with the natural teeth. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and precise attention to detail, the anterior maxilla was successfully esthetically rehabilitated, showcasing the transformative capabilities of modern implant dentistry.

Interfacial delivery of carbon monoxide via smart titanium implant coating for enhanced soft tissue integration with switchable antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties

Soft tissue integration around titanium (Ti) implants is weaker than that around natural teeth, compromising long-term success of Ti implants. Carbon monoxide (CO) possesses distinctive therapeutic properties, rendering it as a highly promising candidate for enhancing STI. However, achieving controlled CO generation at the STI interface remains challenging. Herein, a controlled CO-releasing dual-function coating was constructed on Ti surfaces. Under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation, the designed surface could actively accelerate CO generation for antibiosis against both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. More importantly, in the absence of NIR, the slow release of CO induces macrophage polarization from pro-inflammatory phenotype towards pro-regenerative phenotype. In a rat implantation model with induced infection, the designed surface effectively controlled the bacterial infection, alleviates accompanying inflammation and modulated immune microenvironment, leading to enhanced STI. Single-cell sequencing revealed that the coating alters the cytokine profile within the soft tissue, thereby influencing cellular functions. Differentially expressed genes in macrophages are highly enriched in the PIK3-Akt pathway. Furthermore, the cellular communication between fibroblasts and macrophages was significantly enhanced through the CXCL12/CXCL14/CXCR4 and CSF1-CSF1R ligand-receptor pair. These findings indicate that our coating showed an appealing prospect for enhancing STI around Ti implants, which would ultimately contribute to the improved long-term success of Ti implants.

STEP-BY-STEP SYSTEM FOR DENTAL CERAMIC AESTHETIC REHABILITATION OF ANTERIOR TEETH

Stratification in dental ceramics is an essential technique for creating aesthetic and functional dental restorations that accurately mimic the appearance and properties of natural teeth. It requires a deep understanding of the materials used and technical skills to ensure high-quality results. This study aims to describe an extensive rehabilitation protocol, through a short communication, the step-by-step process of the stratification technique. The goal is to explore the different techniques for fabricating ceramic restorations, with a special focus on the stratification technique, reviewing its processing methods and highlighting the advantages and challenges associated with this approach.

Survival analysis of teeth following clinical crown lengthening and crown insertion procedures up to 14 years: A retrospective cohort study.

The purpose of this study was to conduct survival analysis of teeth following clinical crown lengthening procedures (CLPs) and crown insertions via a retrospective cohort study. Patient- and tooth-related data were collected from 268 participants who received CLPs from 2009 to 2015. The Kaplan-Meier curve and the log-rank tests were used to estimate the probability of survival and compare the survival probabilities among different variables. A Cox multivariate proportional hazard regression model was used to investigate the collective effects of root canal treatment (RCT) and the types of opposing dentition. The rate of tooth loss was 21.6% during the observation period from 1 to 14 years, with 58 teeth extracted. The most attributable reason for tooth extraction was coronal tooth fracture, followed by endodontic failure such as root fracture. The survival probability was 0.87 at 5 years and 0.7 at 10 years. No significant differences in the survival probabilities were found among different providers and locations, the presence of a post, and the types of crowns. The hazard ratio for tooth loss was 6.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) [2.6 to 20.9] in the teeth with RCT (p<0.001) and 2.4, 95% CI [1.1 to 4.8] in the teeth occluding implant-retained prostheses (p=0.016). Tooth loss following CLPs and crown insertions appeared least among the teeth without RCT when occluding natural teeth, while tooth loss was most among the teeth with RCT when occluding implants.

Impact of Magnifying Loupes on the Finish Lines of Fixed Prosthesis Preparations

Background: The use of magnification appears to offer advantages in dental preparation for fixed prosthetics and is widely employed in clinical practice, although it has not yet been thoroughly documented. Therefore, the primary objective is to determine the impact of magnification on the quality of finish lines during the performance of preparations for fixed prostheses. Methods: Sixty-four natural teeth were randomized into two groups: Group O (preparation without additional magnification) and Group L (preparation with Kitus® 2.5× magnifying glasses). The teeth were prepared for full crowns, and the finish lines were evaluated under the OPMI® PicoZeiss dental microscope at 10× magnification, based on the criteria of Continuity, Roughness, and Thickness. Results: There were no significant differences between the groups in any of the parameters evaluated. In Thickness, Group O had a median (IQR) of 600 µm (500; 800 µm) and Group L, 600 µm (400; 800 µm). Group L was Continuous in 64.8% of the cases, Slightly Continuous in 26.1% of the evaluations, and Not Continuous in 9.1% of the cases, thus having a slight advantage over Group O, whose values were 58.0%, 35.2%, and 6.8%, respectively. Group L was Polished in 71.0% of the cases and Rough in 29.0% of the evaluations, against 69.3% and 30.7% of Group O, respectively. These results were obtained using IBM SPSS ® software, version 29.0. Conclusions: The 2.5× magnification magnifiers demonstrated a slight positive impact on improving the quality of dental preparations for fixed prostheses. Nevertheless, since the results are not statistically significant, it is difficult to extrapolate them to the broader population.

Preserving natural dentition and enhancing prosthetic rehabilitation with Cu-Sil denture: A case report

Background: A specific type of transitional denture called a Cu-Sil denture provides a therapy alternative for people who have a lot of natural teeth still in place and do not want to have them extracted. This is particularly salutary for cases where people may feel tone-conscious about the negative impact of tooth loss on their appearance and emotional well-being. Purpose: The purpose of this case report is to provide prosthetic rehabilitation for a partially edentulous patient while conserving the remaining natural teeth and their supporting structures. Case: With only three teeth (12, 13, and 14) remained in the maxillary arch, a 63-year-old man complained to the department of prosthodontics that he had difficulties speaking and eating since he had been missing both upper and lower teeth for a period of five years. Case management:This case report represents a simple method to fabricate a Cu-Sil denture in a partially edentulous patient. Conclusion: Cu-Sil dentures present a promising alternative for partially edentulous patients, offering a method to preserve and support the remaining natural teeth while providing effective prosthetic rehabilitation. The relining material, silicone, functions as a cushion to support the remaining natural teeth. Additionally, the use of a chairside soft-tissue liner in the basic removable partial denture helps to stabilize and retain the existing natural teeth.

Soft tissue elasticity at teeth and implant sites. A novel outcome measure of the soft tissue phenotype.

To assess ultrasonographic tissue elasticity at teeth and implant sites and its variation after peri-implant soft tissue augmentation with a connective tissue graft (CTG). Twenty-eight patients, each contributing with one clinically healthy dental implant exhibiting a soft tissue dehiscence (PSTD), were included. Implant sites were augmented with CTG and monitored over 12 months. Ultrasonographic strain elastography, expressed as strain ratios (SR1, SR2, and SR3, respectively) was assessed at baseline, 6-, and 12-month, and compared with the corresponding contralateral homologous natural tooth. SR1 assessed the strain/elasticity of the midfacial coronal portion of the soft tissue in comparison to the natural tooth crown/implant-supported crown, SR2 evaluated the strain of the midfacial coronal soft tissue in relation to the one of the alveolar mucosa, while SR3 depicted the strain of the midfacial soft tissue in relation to the interproximal soft tissue on the transverse ultrasound scan. SR1 in natural dentition and at implant sites was 0.20 ± 0.08 and 0.30 ± 0.14, respectively (p = .002), indicating that the coronal portion of the soft tissue around teeth is generally more elastic than its counterpart around dental implants. Soft tissue augmentation with CTG promoted an increased stiffness of the midfacial coronal portion of the soft tissue over 12 months (p < .001 for SR1, SR2, and SR3). Strain ratios at the 12-month time points were significantly higher than the values observed at 6 months (p < .001). Regression analysis demonstrated that strain elastography ratios in natural dentition were significantly associated with keratinized gingiva width, and gingival thickness. At implant sites, SR1 was significantly associated with keratinized mucosa width and mucosal thickness (p < .001 for both correlations), SR2 was significantly associated with keratinized mucosa width (p = .013), and SR3 was significantly associated with the surgical technique performed in combination with CTG (p = .022). Ultrasound strain elastography captures and quantifies tissue elasticity and its changes after soft tissue augmentation. A different baseline tissue elasticity was observed between teeth and dental implants in the most coronal aspect of the soft tissue. The main factors affecting tissue elasticity-related outcomes were the keratinized tissue width, and mucosal thickness.

Oral status of older adults receiving home medical care: A cross-sectional study.

This study examined the oral status and the presence of teeth requiring treatment among older adults receiving home medical care. This cross-sectional study was conducted at a Japanese dental clinic specializing in geriatric treatment. We recruited older adults receiving home medical care in the community who had begun to receive domiciliary dental care. The Japanese version of the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT-J), as well as the presence of teeth requiring extraction and the need for assistance in maintaining oral hygiene were used to evaluate the participants' oral health and its association with other items. Ninety-three participants (44 male and 49 female, median age: 87.0 years) were surveyed. The median OHAT-J score was 6. The duration since the previous dental visit was 23 months. Sixty-two (73.8%) of 84 participants with ≥1 natural tooth had severe caries or teeth with severe mobility that required extraction. Logistic analysis revealed that requiring assistance in maintaining oral hygiene, mild dementia, severe dementia, and depression were significantly associated with an OHAT score of ≥6. Older adults receiving home medical care had poor oral health, with approximately 70% of them requiring tooth extraction. The need for assistance in maintaining oral hygiene and poor mental status contribute to poor oral health. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 706-714.