Orthodontic Outcomes Research Articles

3D-Printed Clear Aligners: An Emerging Alternative to the Conventional Thermoformed Aligners? - A Systematic Review.

To assess the differences between the traditional thermoformed clear aligners (TFA) and the emerging 3D-printed clear aligners (DPA) by comparing their mechanical and chemical properties, manufacturing process, accuracy trueness and precision, and effect on sustainability. To evaluate whether 3D-printing is more efficient than thermoforming in the manufacturing of clear aligners; Data: Data was collected from scientific articles related to 3D-printed aligners' properties and comparative cross-referenced articles related to the thermoformed aligners' properties; Sources: The sources assessed to retrieve the articles were scientific databases Scopus and PubMed; Study selection: A PICO format research question guided the study selection by both assisting in the formulation of keyword combinations and establishing a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria to meet this review's objectives; Results: The results indicate that both aligners have good mechanical properties, but the DPA distinguished themselves with two novel properties, shape memory and design flexibility. Additionally, they exerted a consistent force profile in contrast to the TFA. The DPA have higher accuracy, trueness and precision than the TFA, however similar to the thermoforming process, direct-printing also varied the thickness of the DPA from the original master STL model. There are limited studies on sustainability and biocompatibility of the DPA; Conclusions: Following this review, it can be concluded that 3D-printed aligners are likely to serve as an alternative to the thermoformed aligners in the near future, seeing their innovative and promising properties. However, further experimental studies with higher quality of evidence and an emphasis on randomization are necessary to confirm current laboratory-based studies' findings and address important limitations before promoting the aligners to a larger audience. Seeing the design flexibility benefits of 3D-printing technology, and the shape memory property of currently marketed 3D-printed aligners, this could positively impact the accomplishment of precise, desired orthodontic outcomes, also while potentially reducing clinical treatment time.

Radiographic Comparison of Mandibular Third Molar Mesioangulation in Orthodontic Treatment : Assessing the Impact of First Premolar Extraction Versus Non-Extraction Strategies

The angulation of third molars plays a crucial role in dental health and orthodontic outcomes. This review examines changes in third molar mesioangulation after orthodontic treatment, comparing cases involving first premolar extractions with non-extraction protocols. Research has shown that premolar extractions often result in significant improvements in third molar angulation, promoting easier eruption and reducing the likelihood of impactions. Conversely, non-extraction cases generally demonstrate less favorable changes, with a higher frequency of impactions and limited spontaneous correction of molar positioning. The extent and direction of these changes depend on individual factors such as the degree of crowding and the developmental stage of the third molars at the start of treatment. Premolar extraction during orthodontic procedures appears to enhance third molar angulation, potentially lowering the risk of impaction and reducing the need for surgical removal. However, some studies highlight the influence of individual anatomical variations, suggesting that premolar extraction does not consistently produce uniform angulation changes in all patients. Therefore, orthodontic treatment planning should weigh the potential advantages of premolar extractions in improving third molar alignment, especially for patients with a higher risk of molar impaction

Evaluation of Invisalign Wear Protocol on the Efficacy of Tooth Movement in Four First-Premolar Extraction in Adolescent Patients: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

Different protocols exist regarding wear time of invisible aligners. There is no study that compared the effect of different protocols. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Invisalign aligners in four first-premolar extraction treatments in adolescents using three aligner wear protocols, every 7, 10 and 14 days. In the experimental set-up, 50 participants were divided into three distinct groups: group A, with a regimen of changing aligners every 7 days; group B, with a 10-day interval for aligner replacement; and group C, where aligners were replaced every 14 days. The evaluation of occlusal adjustments was conducted employing the Discrepancy Index (DI) and the Cast-Radiograph Evaluation (CRE), as defined by the American Board of Orthodontics for the purpose of recording orthodontic outcomes. The treatment duration, number of maxillary and mandibular Invisalign aligners, and number of Invisalign restarts were simultaneously recorded and evaluated. The data set was statistically examined using ANOVA, complemented by the F-test, least significant difference (LSD) method and Tamhane's T2 test. The final sample size for analysis is 45 cases, with five cases lost to follow-up. Before treatment, the three groups showed no significant difference in the degree of malocclusion or each item of DI (p > 0.05). Posttreatment, within groups, and regardless of the wearing protocol, the total CRE scores demonstrated no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05). For the other items, groups A and C completed occlusal relations and interproximal contacts significantly better than did group B (p < 0.05). The group C cases had the least number of Invisalign refinement (3.93 ± 0.96 vs. 4.93 ± 0.70 vs. 6.00 ± 1.25, p < 0.05), but the treatment duration and number of Invisalign aligners were not significantly different (p > 0.05). The different treatment timing protocols showed equivalent effectiveness regarding treatment outcome, with significantly improved results for the 7- and 14-day protocol in terms of occlusal relations and interproximal contacts. The attainment of comparable clinical accuracy between the 7- and 14-day protocol, within a treatment duration of fewer than 3 months, indicates that the 7-day protocol can be deemed an effective treatment approach.

Functional Class II Treatment Simultaneous With Selective Reduction of Talon Cusps: A Case Report.

Selective reduction of bilateral nonsyndromic talon cusps in an 11-year-old class II patient enabled successful mandibular repositioning with a twin block appliance. This approach achieved desired orthodontic outcomes without causing pain or sensitivity following reduction, highlighting a novel strategy for managing talon cusps in orthodontic treatment.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of 3D-Printed Customized Orthodontic Brackets in Reducing Treatment Time and Improving Outcomes

ABSTRACT Background: The advent of 3D printing technology has revolutionized orthodontic treatment, enabling the production of customized orthodontic brackets tailored to individual patients. These customized brackets are hypothesized to reduce treatment time and improve clinical outcomes by providing better alignment precision and minimizing the need for adjustments. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 60 patients aged 12–25 years requiring orthodontic treatment. The participants were randomly assigned to two groups: the experimental group (n = 30) received 3D-printed customized orthodontic brackets, while the control group (n = 30) received conventional brackets. Treatment duration, the number of adjustment visits, and the quality of alignment were recorded over an 18-month period. Quality of alignment was assessed using the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) grading system. Statistical analysis was performed using a paired t-test to compare the outcomes between the two groups. Results: The average treatment time for the experimental group was significantly shorter, with a mean duration of 14.2 months (SD ± 1.8) compared to 18.6 months (SD ± 2.3) in the control group (P &lt; 0.01). The number of adjustment visits was reduced by 35% in the experimental group (mean = 8 visits) compared to the control group (mean = 12 visits). Furthermore, the quality of alignment, as measured by the ABO grading system, was significantly higher in the experimental group (mean score = 90.5) compared to the control group (mean score = 78.2) (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The use of 3D-printed customized orthodontic brackets significantly reduces treatment time and improves the quality of orthodontic outcomes compared to conventional brackets. These findings suggest that customized brackets offer a promising approach for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of orthodontic treatment, potentially leading to better patient satisfaction and reduced clinical workload.

Viscoelastic and antimicrobial dental care bioplastic with recyclable life cycle

Medical plastic-appliance-based healthcare services, especially in dentistry, generate tremendous amounts of plastic waste. Given the physiological features of our mouth, it is desirable to substitute dental care plastics with viscoelastic and antimicrobial bioplastics. Herein, we develop a medical-grade and sustainable bioplastic that is viscoelastic enough to align the tooth positions, resists microbial contamination, and exhibits recyclable life cycles. In particular, we devise a molecular template involving entanglement-inducing and antimicrobial groups and prepare a silk fibroin-based dental care bioplastic. The generated compactly entangled structure endows great flexibility, toughness, and viscoelasticity. Therefore, a satisfactory orthodontic outcome is accomplished, as demonstrated by the progressive alignment of male rabbit incisors within the 2.5 mm range. Moreover, the prepared bioplastic exhibits resistance to pathogenic colonization of intraoral microbes such as Streptococcaceae and Veillonellaceae. Because the disentanglement of entangled domains enables selective separation and extraction of the components, the bioplastic can be recycled into a mechanically identical one. The proposed medical-grade and sustainable bioplastic could potentially contribute to a green healthcare future.

Incidence of unexpected condylar displacement following comprehensive orthodontic treatment in adults.

To evaluate the incidence and pattern of unexpected/excessive condylar displacement after comprehensive orthodontic treatment in adults. Adult patients (age ≥18 years) who underwent comprehensive orthodontic treatment with pre-(T1) and post-treatment (T2) cone beam computed tomography scans were consecutively collected within an orthodontic cohort (N = 291). T1 and T2 CBCTs were superimposed three-dimensionally (3D) and condylar displacement was estimated by the 3D changes of condylar neck point (CdN) between T1 and T2 (ΔCdN). Participants with excessive condylar displacement (ΔCdN >1 mm) were classified as condylar displacement (+) and otherwise as displacement (-). The incidence and pattern of condylar displacement, association with factors such as sex, age, skeletal relationship, extraction pattern, treatment duration, history of temporomandibular joint disorder, and presence of condylar resorption with the final occlusal outcome were investigated. The incidence of unexpected condylar displacement >1 mm in the adult orthodontic cohort was 6.2%. Females (vs males; OR: 9.07; [95% CI: 1.19-69.23]) and Skeletal Class II (vs Classes I and III; OR: 4.57 [95% CI: 1.58-13.20]) demonstrated significantly higher odds of unexpected condylar displacement (P < .05). Condylar resorption was not evident in participants with condylar displacement and did not interfere with the final orthodontic outcome. Unexpected 3D condylar displacement exceeding 1 mm was noted in approximately 6% of the adult orthodontic patient cohort. However, the condylar displacement per se was not associated with condylar resorption and did not cause clinical concerns.

Artificial Intelligence in Aesthetic Dentistry: Is Treatment with Aligners Clinically Realistic?

Smile aesthetics are increasingly prioritized in dental practice, with accurate orthodontic assessment and treatment planning being crucial for optimal outcomes. This study evaluates Invisalign® SmileView™ (SV), an AI-based tool that simulates post-treatment smiles, focusing on its ability to present potential orthodontic outcomes to patients. Background/Objectives: This research aims to study whether SV can simulate predictable orthodontic results and if it makes anatomical modifications to the teeth. Additionally, it will evaluate whether SV displays smiles that conform to the orthodontic criteria described in the literature. Finally, the study will analyze whether the software can align the dental with the facial midline. Methods: A total of 51 subjects were recruited in Madrid, Spain. The operator took a frontal photograph of the subjects with a social smile (T0), following the application’s instructions. Subsequently, the subjects followed the steps to modify their smile (T1), resulting in a new image of the subject with a different smile. The following variables were collected, analyzed, and compared with the standards defined in the literature: smile width, vertical exposure of the maxillary central incisor, width of the maxillary central and lateral incisors, proportion of the maxillary lateral incisor width to the central incisor, anterior gingival exposure level, position of the upper and lower dental midlines relative to the facial midline. Results: 58% of the sample showed dental expansion, with an excessive expansion (&gt;5 mm) observed in 8%. In the maxillary arch, 5.9% of incisors exceeded predictable aligner movement (&gt;1.5 mm), with 3.9% showing excessive extrusion and 2% excessive intrusion. For the lateral incisors, the mesiodistal size was reduced less than 0.5 mm in 31.4% of cases, with excessive interproximal reduction (&gt;0.5 mm) in 5.9%. Additionally, 62.7% of cases would require multidisciplinary treatment due to an increase in size. SV centered the upper midline in 77.9% of these cases. Among the sample, the upper midline was initially centered in 74.5% of subjects, and SV maintained it centered in 84.2% of these subjects. Conclusions: SV tends to generate simulations of broader smiles, which are mostly achievable through aligner treatments, from an orthodontic perspective, and showed high predictability regarding the vertical movements of the incisors that can be achieved with aligners. Moreover, it adjusted the mesiodistal size of the upper incisors in its simulations and demonstrated the ability to identify and correct deviations of the dental midlines relative to the facial midline.

Exacerbating orthodontic tooth movement in mice with salt-sensitive hypertension

Background/purposeOrthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is a critical aspect of dental treatment that requires the precise control of bone remodeling processes. Hypertension (HTN) can affect the effectiveness of OTM. Salt-sensitive hypertension (SSHTN) is of particular concern due to its detrimental effects on bone health, potentially altering orthodontic outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of SSHTN on OTM using a mouse model. Materials and methodsMale mice were divided into a normal and an SSHTN group. The SSHTN model was generated by administering N(ω)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) followed by a high-salt diet. The OTM was performed using a nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) closed-coil spring, and the tooth movement was measured after 12 days. Silicone imprinting was used to estimate the OTM distance. Osteoclast activity was assessed using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining of decalcified maxillary sections. ResultsSSHTN mice exhibited significantly increased tooth movement compared to normal mice. This enhanced movement was associated with more osteoclasts in the SSHTN group than in the control group. These findings suggest that SSHTN increases OTM levels by promoting bone resorption. ConclusionSSHTN significantly affected OTM by enhancing osteoclast activity and increasing tooth movement. These results underscore the importance of considering hypertensive conditions in orthodontic treatment planning as they may require adjustments in force application to prevent potential adverse effects.

Low-Level Laser-Aided Orthodontic Treatment of Periodontally Compromised Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

ABSTRACT Background: Periodontal disease can complicate orthodontic treatment, presenting challenges in maintaining both periodontal health and achieving desired orthodontic outcomes. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has emerged as a potential adjunctive treatment to enhance periodontal healing and facilitate orthodontic tooth movement. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 60 periodontally compromised patients (mean age: 35 years). Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group, receiving LLLT in conjunction with standard orthodontic treatment, or the control group, receiving standard orthodontic treatment alone. The primary outcomes measured were changes in periodontal indices, tooth movement rate, and patient-reported pain levels. LLLT was applied at a wavelength of 810 nm with an energy density of 5 J/cm² for 10 min per session, twice weekly for 8 weeks. Results: The experimental group showed a significant improvement in periodontal indices, with a mean reduction in probing depth of 2.3 mm compared to 1.2 mm in the control group (P &lt; 0.05). The rate of orthodontic tooth movement was faster in the LLLT group, with an average of 1.5 mm/month versus 1.0 mm/month in the control group (P &lt; 0.01). Additionally, patient-reported pain levels were significantly lower in the LLLT group, with an average pain score reduction of 3.2 on a 10-point scale compared to 1.8 in the control group (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Low-level laser therapy significantly enhances periodontal health, accelerates tooth movement, and reduces pain in periodontally compromised patients undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic movement after regenerative endodontic procedure in mature permanent tooth associated with dens invaginatus: a case report with 4-year follow-up

BackgroundRegenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) are innovative treatments aimed at restoring damaged dental structures. However, the effect of orthodontic movement on REP-treated teeth is not well understood and may have significant long-term consequences. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of orthodontic movement on a mature permanent tooth associated with dens invaginatus that has undergone a regenerative endodontic procedure (REP).Case presentationThis report describes the case of a 13-year-old healthy male who presented with pulp necrosis and a chronic apical abscess (tooth number 2.2). Following REP according to the American Association of Endodontists' guidelines, the patient began non-extraction orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances after a 9-month healing period, which lasted 17 months in the upper arch. Subsequent follow-ups at 24, 36 and 48 months post-REP revealed an asymptomatic state with minimal cervical discoloration and diminished cold sensitivity. Radiographic analyses revealed periapical healing, mild apical remodeling on tooth 2.2, and moderate apical remodeling on other maxillary incisors. The treated tooth displayed a positive response to both REP and orthodontic treatment, yet further research is required to determine the long-term effects of orthodontics on REP-treated teeth.ConclusionOrthodontic movement following REPs in mature permanent teeth is feasible and do not seem to prone teeth to orthodontic tooth resorption. Our experience indicates that a 9-month healing period allows successful orthodontic outcomes following REPs. Nonetheless, the predictability of outcomes and the ideal healing period before orthodontic movement is initiated remain to be established.

Prevalence and Patterns of Positional Dental Anomalies in First Permanent Molars: Insights from a Study in Oradea, Romania.

Tooth position anomalies, influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, can significantly impact oral health and play a critical role in establishing proper occlusion. The aim of this study was to identify the most prevalent tooth position anomalies in first permanent molars among Romanian patients and to evaluate additional variables as well. This retrospective study utilized digital study models to identify all existing tooth position anomalies. The study included patients aged 12 to 40 years with complete permanent dentition. Axial changes (buccal tilting, oral tilting, mesial tilting, and distal tilting) as well as rotational changes (mesio-buccal rotation and disto-buccal rotation) were investigated. After applying the exclusion criteria, 103 patients remained in the study. Our findings revealed a notable prevalence of positional anomalies, with disto-buccal rotations being most common in upper molars (tooth 1.6-22.3%, tooth 2.6-31.1%) and oral tilting predominating in lower molars (tooth 3.6-6.8%, tooth 4.6-14.6%). Interestingly, neither gender nor malocclusion type significantly influenced the occurrence of tooth position anomalies. Symmetrical patterns in positional changes were observed, with patients having tooth position anomalies at 1.6 significantly more frequently associated with anomalies at 2.6. Similarly, anomalies at 3.6 were significantly more frequently associated with anomalies at 4.6. Additionally, for molars 2.6 and 3.6 on the left side, the differences were statistically significant, with patients having anomalies at 2.6 significantly more frequently associated with anomalies at 3.6. This pattern was not observed for the molars situated on the right side of the dental arches. While this study provides insights into positional anomalies in first permanent molars among the Romanian population, its retrospective design and focus on a specific demographic may limit generalizability. In conclusion, the study underscores the significant prevalence of positional anomalies in first permanent molars among adolescents and adults in Oradea, Romania. Early detection and targeted interventions are crucial to address these anomalies and improve orthodontic outcomes. Comprehensive assessment and treatment planning are essential to achieve optimal dental harmony and function. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying factors contributing to these positional changes and their long-term impact on oral health and occlusal stability.

Evaluating the Long-Term Effects of Orthodontic Treatment on Facial Esthetics and Aging.

Orthodontic treatment is known to significantly impact facial esthetics, but there is a lack of long-term studies examining its effects, particularly in conjunction with the natural aging process. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the enduring effects of orthodontic treatment on facial esthetics and aging over a 15-year period. Three hundred orthodontic patients aged 12 to 25 at the start of treatment were included. Dental alignment, soft tissue transformations, skeletal changes, and patient-reported outcomes were measured objectively. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare pretreatment and post-treatment measurements. Significant improvements were observed across various aspects following orthodontic treatment. Dental alignment showed a marked reduction in crowding, with an average decrease of 5.2 mm. Soft tissue transformations revealed notable advancements in lip positioning, averaging 3.8 mm, along with increased lip thickness. Skeletal changes were relatively modest, characterized by subtle alterations in chin positioning and mandibular angles. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction, reflected by an average score of 9.2 on the satisfaction scale. Despite treatment efficacy, the aging process continued to manifest natural changes in skin elasticity and fat distribution over the 15-year follow-up period. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of orthodontic outcomes and highlight the importance of considering long-term effects on facial esthetics and aging. This longitudinal study provides valuable insights into the long-term effects of orthodontic treatment on facial esthetics and aging. It highlights significant improvements in dental alignment and soft tissue transformations, along with sustained patient satisfaction. However, modest skeletal changes and the ongoing aging process emphasize the need for managing patient expectations. These findings can guide practitioners and patients in making informed decisions regarding orthodontic interventions.

Comparative Analysis of Braces and Aligners: Long-Term Orthodontic Outcomes.

The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the long-term results of orthodontic treatment with traditional braces and Invisalign, with a particular emphasis on treatment length, patient satisfaction, correction of malocclusion, and long-term stability. Between 2020 and 2022, individuals who had orthodontic treatment at a tertiary care center had their data analysed. Patients with mild to severe malocclusions treated with conventional braces or Invisalign between the ages of 12 and 18 met the inclusion criteria. Assessments were done on results, length of treatment, degree of malocclusion, and long-term stability. With significance set at P < 0.05, statistical analyses comprised t-tests for treatment duration and Chi-square testing for malocclusion correction. The mean treatment time for Invisalign was much shorter (18 months) than for conventional braces (24 months) (P < 0.001). With 88-90% success rates, both techniques demonstrated remarkable success rates in malocclusion treatment. Even though Invisalign was associated with a somewhat greater percentage of relapse instances, the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). In conclusion, Invisalign showed a much shorter treatment period than conventional braces, yet both showed excellent malocclusion correction. The choice of modality should be based on patient satisfaction, treatment objectives, and case complexity, taking into account the trade-offs between treatment length and potential variations in long-term stability.

Enhancing orthodontic precision: A comprehensive review of temporary anchorage devices

Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) have revolutionized orthodontic treatment by providing additional support for tooth movement, enabling precise control over tooth positioning, and expanding the scope of treatment options available to orthodontists. Temporary anchoring devices (TADs) provide a dependable means of accomplishing efficient and consistent tooth movement, and have emerged as a key breakthrough in modern orthodontic practice.: The present review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of TADs, including their types, applications, advantages, and limitations. : The review begins by elucidating the various types of TADs, such as mini-implants, miniplates, and microscrews, highlighting their differences in design, placement techniques, and biomechanical characteristics. Subsequently, it explores the diverse clinical applications of TADs, ranging from orthodontic tooth movement, space closure, intrusion, and extrusion to the management of skeletal discrepancies and complex cases requiring multidisciplinary approaches.: Moreover, the review examines the advantages offered by TADs, including enhanced treatment precision, reduced reliance on patient compliance, and the ability to achieve challenging tooth movements with minimal side effects. It also addresses the limitations and potential complications associated with TADs, such as risk of infection, mucosal irritation, and mechanical failure, emphasizing the importance of careful patient selection, proper placement techniques, and vigilant monitoring throughout treatment, highlighting their potential to further enhance orthodontic outcomes and patient satisfaction.: The significant role of temporary anchorage devices in modern orthodontic practice, emphasizing their versatility, efficacy, and potential to optimize treatment outcomes while minimizing the reliance on traditional anchorage methods and enhancing patient comfort and experience.

Automated placement of dental attachments based on orthodontic pathways

The aesthetic appeal and removability of clear aligners have led to their widespread popularity in orthodontic treatments. Dental attachments significantly contribute to shortening treatment duration and enhancing orthodontic outcomes. The automation of tailor-made dental attachments for individual teeth plays a crucial role in the field of orthodontics. This is because they enable more precise control over the forces applied, thereby effectively facilitating tooth movement. This study introduces an automated algorithm that generates dental attachments based on the orthodontic path. The algorithm automatically selects and places the appropriate type of attachment according to the magnitude of rotation and translation of teeth during orthodontic procedures. It adjusts the position and posture of the attachments to fit the teeth accurately. To validate the effectiveness of automatically placed attachments in guiding teeth along the predetermined path, this study employs finite element analysis to simulate the impact of attachments on teeth. Comparative analyses between the automated method and traditional manual techniques show that the proposed algorithm significantly enhances the precision and efficiency of attachment placement. Additionally, finite element simulations confirm the feasibility and effectiveness of this approach in clinical orthodontic applications, providing a novel technical pathway for automating attachment placement in orthodontic treatments and offering significant practical value for personalized and efficient orthodontic care.

Properties and Application of the Gummetal Wire for the Treatment of an Open Bite—Brief Narrative Review and Case Report

The swift integration of ‘Gummetal’ into the orthodontic armamentarium can be attributed to its distinct advantages as an entirely new Ti-Nb-based beta titanium alloy. Developed by Toyota Central R&amp;D Labs and publicly revealed in April 2003, this innovative material is rapidly reshaping orthodontic practices. Its sui generis properties allow its use as a potential substitute for the Multi-Loop Edgewise Archwire (MEAW) method. Three-dimensional orthodontic movement using this new alloy could eliminate the disadvantages of the MEAW method, such as its technical complexity and patient discomfort. In our comprehensive review of the current literature, we examined relevant publications sourced from the PUBMED database and explored one seminal work on Gummetal from the journal literature. Characteristic properties of Gummetal, such as its exceptional flexibility, superelasticity, and malleability (approximately 10 times greater than conventional metals), enable seamless formation of bends without posing challenges, thereby allowing precise control over orthodontic force application. Also worthy of mention are Gummetal’s biocompatibility and non-toxic properties, along with its low coefficient of friction. The wire seems to be a relatively easy way to achieve good occlusion. Its usage does not require extensive experience in terms of manual skill, and it is not time consuming. Diligent usage of any prescribed plastics by the patient is crucial to prevent complications and ensure successful orthodontic outcomes.

A Hypothesis Testing of Archwire Rounding for the Efficacy of Torque Springs in Orthodontics: A Finite Element Study.

Achieving the proper buccolingual inclination of teeth is a cornerstone in orthodontic treatment, directly impacting the attainment of ideal occlusal relationships and long-term stability. A practical torque expression that moves the tooth in its proper position across all three planes is imperative to finish orthodontic cases optimally. The primary focus of this research is to investigate Burstone's hypothesis about Warren torque springs when applied to the rectangular wire. Additionally, it examines the hypothesis of rounding these wires in between the bracket wings of the target tooth to be moved. This study aims to determine whether the rounding of wires, in conjunction with the use of torque springs, influences orthodontic outcomes, addressing a notable gap in current literature and resolving controversies in orthodontic practice. A three-dimensional set of maxillary teeth was modeled. A 0.022" MiniSprint™ brackets and Stainless steel archwires of 0.019" × 0.025" and 0.017" × 0.025" (Forestadent, Pforzheim, Germany) were generated. Warren torque spring was modeled and used in the simulation on the upper right central incisor. Four case scenarios were simulated. In two scenarios, the archwires were untouched for both archwire sizes. In comparison, in the other two scenarios, each archwire size was rounded for the upper right maxillary incisor bracket area. Stresses in the Warren torque springs were calculated, the root tip displacement in the four scenarios was measured in millimeters, and both were analyzed. The root tip displacement was highly affected by rounding the archwire. The increase in root tip displacement was 1538% for the Warren torque spring on 0.019" × 0.025" and 783% for 0.017" × 0.025". The amount of root tip displacement was about 18.8 mm for 0.017" × 0.025" with rounding and 12.2 mm for 0.019" × 0.025". The concentration of the stresses in the Warren torque spring was in the neck of the spring next to the coils. Rounding the archwires while using the Warren torque spring on a rectangular archwire will increase the efficiency of the spring and, in turn, will exhibit more torque on the tooth. Smaller dimensions of rectangular archwires will give more torque in conjunction with Warren torque springs compared to larger sizes of archwires.

NAVIGATING DENTISTRY’S AI REVOLUTION: OPPORTUNITIES IN PAKISTAN

The convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and dentistry marks a profound shift in the way oral healthcare is delivered and managed. In Pakistan, where healthcare resources may be constrained, the integration of AI presents unique opportunities to enhance access, efficiency, and precision in dental practice. AI-powered tele-dentistry platforms offer remote consultations and diagnostics, bridging geographical gaps in access to specialized care. This empowers patients across Pakistan, ensuring timely interventions and expert opinions regardless of location.AI algorithms excel in radiographic interpretation, aiding in early detection of oral pathologies like caries and oral cancers. By augmenting diagnostic accuracy, AI mitigates the burden of oral diseases in Pakistan, optimizing resource allocation and improving patient outcomes. Additionally, AI-driven treatment planning streamlines workflows and enhances precision in dental procedures. From predictive modeling for orthodontic outcomes to computer-aided design of dental prosthetics, AI optimizes treatment efficacy and patient satisfaction. Embracing AI as a complementary tool, Pakistani dental professionals can unlock new horizons in care delivery. By integrating AI with traditional methodologies, dentists can navigate this transformative landscape, fostering innovation and excellence in oral healthcare nationwide.

Orthodontic retention: Rationale and periodontal implications.

Post-treatment change in the form of true relapse and physiological and maturational effects is common following orthodontics. The unpredictable nature of these manifestations dictates a conservative, near-universal approach to retention. Both fixed and removable forms of retention are popular with the latter constrained by variable levels of adherence particularly in the medium- to long-term. Fixed retention may offer a more predictable means of preservation of orthodontic outcomes; however, this advantage is offset by the requirement for prolonged supervision and the potential for adverse changes including periodontal breakdown. Nevertheless, while examples of severe complications are common, a clear causal relationship between intact, passive retainers and periodontal issues does not appear to exist. Nevertheless, the importance of diligent maintenance and careful supervision during fixed retention, in particular, cannot be disregarded.