Dental Pathology Research Articles

Molecular Profiling of Odontoclasts during Physiological Tooth Replacement.

The odontoclast is a rarely studied cell type that is overly active in many dental pathologies, leading to tooth loss. It is difficult to find diphyodont mammals in which either physiological or pathological root resorption can be studied. Here we use the adult leopard gecko, which has repeated cycles of physiological tooth resorption and shedding. RNA-seq was carried out to compare gene expression profiles of functional teeth to developing teeth. Genes more highly expressed in bell-stage developing teeth were related to morphogenesis (PTHLH, SFRP2, SHH, EDAR). Some genes expressed in osteoclasts (ACP5, CTSK, CSF1R) were relatively more abundant in functional teeth compared with developing teeth. There was, however, no differential expression of RANK and RANKL in the 2 tooth types. In addition, functional teeth expressed proteolysis genes not found in osteoclasts (ADAMTS2, 3, 4, 14; CTSA, CTSH, CTSS). We used tartrate acid resistant phosphatase and cathepsin K (CTSK) staining to identify odontoclasts in and around the gecko dentition. There were 3 populations of CTSK cells: (1) large, functional multinucleated odontoclasts in the crown of the tooth with a ruffled border inside resorption pits; (2) smaller, precursor cells in the pulp with fewer nuclei; and (3) flattened external precursor cells next to the root and bone of attachment. We found a positive relationship between developing teeth and the population of CTSK+ cells on the root surface. We tested a candidate signal that may be involved in CTSK+ cell presence. An antagonist of CSF1R was delivered to developing teeth in vivo, which resulted in a significant decrease in CTSK and CSF1R compared with DMSO controls. Thus, the CSF1 signaling pathway is upstream of CTSK in teeth. This is the first work to detail the molecular characteristics of odontoclasts during physiological tooth shedding and to demonstrate that in vivo, local drug delivery is possible in the gecko model.

Coronectomy of mandibular third molars with dental pathology: a prospective cohort study of 121 molars

PurposeCoronectomy is a valuable treatment proven safe for non-pathological mandibular third molars with an increased risk of inferior alveolar nerve injury. Coronectomy may also be useful for mandibular third molars with dentigerous cysts and caries, but this is not commonly performed due to the lack of well-designed, evidence-based studies. Here, we aim to investigate the safety of coronectomy for mandibular third molars with caries and dentigerous cysts.MethodsOne hundred fifteen patients with an impacted mandibular third molar with a dentigerous cyst or caries underwent coronectomy or complete removal and received follow-up with clinical and radiographical examinations. We statistically compared the presence of postoperative complications after coronectomy versus complete removal.ResultsData from 121 molars were available for analysis. The results revealed no significant difference in the occurrence of postoperative complications (including persistent pain, inferior alveolar nerve injury, infection, alveolar osteitis, excessive bleeding, and the need for retreatment) between coronectomy and complete removal. Additionally, the incidence of postoperative complications was not related to any analyzed patient- or molar-related factors, including age, gender, health status, smoking, caries, dentigerous cyst extent, and impaction degree.ConclusionFor pathological impacted mandibular third molars with dentigerous cysts and caries, coronectomy exhibited both short-term and long-term safety, showing no significant difference in postoperative complications compared to total removal. Our results suggest that coronectomy can be indicated for pathological mandibular third molars with proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve.Trial registration numberNot applicable.

Bronchial asthma and the state of the oral microecosystem

Purpose To study from literary sources data on microbial pathologies of the oral cavity of patients suffering from bronchial asthma, as well as the mechanisms of their development. Material and methods An analysis of information sources was carried out in the international databases Google Scholar and Pubmed from 2004 to 2024. The keywords of the query were “oral cavity, bronchial asthma, microbes”. Results The search resulted in 267 sources, of which 22 were relevant. Based on the obtained literature data, dental diseases and the mechanisms of their development associated with changes in the microecosystem of the oral cavity are described in patients suffering from bronchial asthma, including: caries, gingivitis/periodontitis, candidiasis. The above pathologies can develop as a result of an autoimmune process and other factors that change the homeostasis of the oral cavity, activating the action of pathogenic microbiota of the oral cavity. Conclusion Changes in the microbiota of the oral cavity, which occurs during changes in the microecosystem of the oral cavity, influence the development of dental pathology, thereby affecting the health of not only the oral cavity and general somatic health.

Tomographic and ultrasound evaluation of the thyroid gland in pet guinea pigs.

There has been increasing interest in the literature on primary thyroid diseases in guinea pigs, which are believed to be underdiagnosed. This study describes the size and characteristics of the thyroid gland on ultrasound (US) and CT examinations in the guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) without evidence of thyroid pathology and examines the possible use of US as a routine examination for thyroid diseases. This prospective and anatomical study included 20 guinea pigs that underwent CT for dental pathologies and US for thyroid gland (TG) examination. Based on US and CT images, this study evaluated the thyroid lobe dimensions (length, height, and width) and shape. Echogenicity and homogeneity were assessed on US images, and attenuation values (HU) and homogeneity were evaluated on CT images. All animals underwent CT and US examinations under anesthesia. Thyroid lobes appeared more frequently as fusiform on CT (65%) and oval on US scans (67.5%). The attenuation values on CT scans were homogeneous. On the US scans, the TG was more frequently hypoechoic. No statistically significant differences were found between the size of the right and left thyroid lobes, both with CT and US. A statistically significant difference was found between the length values on CT and US. The US and CT thyroid gland dimensions, shape, and appearance were described. Both CT and US are useful techniques for evaluating the TG in guinea pigs.

Multiproxy analysis of indigenous maize (Zea mays) use, lower Saginaw River, Great Lakes, USA

Evidence for the presence and pre-European use of maize on the lower Saginaw River drainage, southern Michigan, Great Lakes, USA, is presented and evaluated. An integrated multiproxy approach is employed, including macro-botanical data from feature contexts and micro-botanical data from adhered carbonized residues, δ13C isotope information derived from carbonized food residues, and dental disease data from a local mid-eighteenth-century indigenous burial population. Results of absolute dating and ceramic stylistic analysis reveal an early micro-botanical presence of maize ca. 1900 BP, with macro-botanical evidence lagging until 1000 years later. Absolute dates, both direct and associated, reveal macro-botanical evidence through the 18th century, when local populations display dental pathologies consistent with a high maize consumption diet. Of interest is the presence of an inverse spatial and altitude relationship between micro-botanical evidence of maize from carbonized food residues on ceramic vessels, and the presence of macro-botanical remains, suggesting a behavioral partitioning of maize-related activities.

Impact of production and non-production risk factors on the formation of dental pathology among chemical industry workers

Impact of production and non-production risk factors on the formation of dental pathology among chemical industry workers

Pathology of the temporomandibular joint in dental diseases

Temporomandibular joint diseases (TMJ) significantly reduce the quality of life, causing such unpleasant symptoms as orofacial pain, joint sound, limited mouth opening, tinnitus, insomnia. TMJ pathology can be a consequence of both the dental interventions themselves and diseases of the oral cavity, including complete or partial edentia, malocclusion, dominance of one chewing side, periodontitis, etc. The purpose of this review was to study, based on literature data, possible disorders in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in dental pathology. The risk factors for the development of TMJ, the most common symptoms, clinical picture, features of differential diagnostics, the relationship with the use of general anesthesia, age-related changes are considered. The relationship of TMJ with dental diseases is considered in detail. The mutual influence of changes in the TMJ and the dentition has been confirmed. A conclusion has been made about the need for constant attention to the pathology of the TMJ in dental diseases.

Current Knowledge on Craniodental Anatomy and Dental Pathology in Golden Snub‐Nosed Monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana): A Comparative Review

ABSTRACTThe Sichuan golden snub‐nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana) is a rare and endangered species endemic to China that occupies a particularly important position in the evolutionary history of Rhinopithecus species. Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall well‐being in both humans and nonhuman primates. We review the current limited literature on the dental characteristics and dental pathologies related to the golden snub‐nosed monkey, based on skeleton data and morphological evidence. The results indicated that this species possesses dental characteristics that are remarkably different from that of other primates such as larger‐sized molars with blunt cusp crests, tiny incisor teeth, and strong mandibles with well‐developed masticatory muscles. From limited research, dental diseases include caries, periodontal diseases, tooth loss, tooth wear, and other diseases, which can be found in most primates, including golden snub‐nosed monkeys. In conclusion, these physiological features have gradually adapted to different environments to meet the requirements of their function. Understanding the tooth characteristics and dental health status of R. roxellana can provide valuable insights into their evolutionary history, dietary habits, and overall health, which is of great significance for the conservation of the entire population. An epidemiological survey and safe and effective inspection methods of the dental health of golden snub‐nosed monkeys should be conducted to facilitate conservation behaviors that presented in the future. It is also recommended that zoos link diet and dental health to improve animal welfare.

Microbotanical analyses of dental calculus and caries occurrence at Neolithic Tepecik-Çiftlik, Türkiye: insights into diet and oral health

The transition to agriculture-based economies and sedentary lifeways during the Neolithic brought significant changes in oral health and diet. Despite the influence of physiological and cultural factors, the frequency of dental pathologies, such as caries and dental calculus, is a common consequence of carbohydrate-rich diets. Caries result from bacterial activity that transforms carbohydrates into lactic acid, leading to the demineralisation of tooth enamel. In contrast, dental calculus can trap and preserve biomolecules and microremains—such as phytoliths and starch grains—making it a valuable resource for investigating past diets and lifeways. Although microbotanical analyses of dental calculus and caries occurrence are common in archaeology, these methods are rarely applied together in the same case study. This paper presents the results of the analyses of microbotanical remains, such as phytoliths and starch grains, retrieved from dental calculus, as well as caries occurrence in 11 individuals from Tepecik-Çiftlik, a Neolithic settlement in southwestern Cappadocia, Turkey. Caries prevalence aligns with previous studies highlighting the poor oral health of the Neolithic Tepecik-Çiftlik community and suggests a high reliance on carbohydrate-rich diets. Microbotanical remains showed contrasting results, with phytoliths indicating the presence of cereals but an absence of starch grains of cereal origin. This lack of cereal starch grains could point towards the influence of culinary and foodway practices on the preservation and occurrence of microbotanical remains in dental calculus, variables often overlooked in the study of ancient diets. These findings contribute to our understanding of the lifeways and oral health of the Neolithic Tepecik-Çiftlik community while drawing attention to how foodways and culinary practices may influence or bias the archaeological record.

Reactive changes in dental tissues in response to curing light exposure: An experimental study

BACKGROUND: The use of curing lamps has considerably improved the quality of dental treatment. Curing light exposure protocols are primarily based on the effectiveness (completeness) of cure. The risk of heat impact on the dental pulp and surrounding tissues is a downside of curing light radiation. There is a need for experimental confirmation of differentiated selection of curing light exposure protocols (intensity and time of exposure) in terms of minimum impact on tissues. AIM: To assess the effect of curing light on dental tissues. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An experimental simulation of the use of curing light in dental practice during dental restoration was performed. The experiment was performed in 50 rats randomized into four groups: Group 1 (control, n=5) and Groups 2–4 (treatment, n=15 each). The control group was not exposed to curing light. In the treatment groups, mandibular incisors of the experimental animals were exposed to curing light in three modes. The animals were sacrificed by decapitation after 7 days in Group 1 and after 1, 3, and 7 days in Groups 2–4. A total of 100 teeth were extracted for pathomorphological examination. A total of 320 histological sections (enamel, dentin, and pulp slides) were prepared, stained, and examined. The descriptive method was used to assess the findings. RESULTS: Changes in the pulp showed pathomorphological signs of acute inflammation, most prominent on Day 3, which was considered a defense response of the pulp to irritation. The microvasculature showed the most significant changes, with increased, inhomogeneous blood filling, plasmorrhagia of capillary walls, and stasis in capillary lumen. There were no morphological changes in hard dental tissues. The initial response of the dental pulp to curing light exposure in experimental animals was uniform and unaffected by the technical specifications of curing lamps. On Day 7, there was no morphological response in the pulp when exposed to diode light at 1,000 and 1,400 mW/cm2. At this point, the microscopic appearance of the pulp exposed to diode curing light at 3,200 mW/cm2 was generally comparable to that at baseline, with residual perivascular cellular infiltration of the stroma and capillary congestion. CONCLUSION: The experimental findings indicate a risk of negative photochemical reactions in the pulp following curing light exposure during treatment of patients with hard dental tissue pathologies. The data on the effect of curing light on the dental pulp can be used in real-world dental practice when selecting a composite curing algorithm during dental restoration to reduce the risk of unexpected reactions to curing light.

Risk factors for the appearance of cracks and fractures of teeth according to a survey of dentists

BACKGROUND: Preventive treatment is essential in modern dentistry, resulting in increased attention to the causes and potential predictability of dental pathologies, including tooth cracks and fractures. Currently, there is a lack of comprehensive, detailed studies on this subject. AIM: To assess the detectability of risk factors for tooth cracks and fractures (based on a survey of dentists). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey of 52 dentists of various specialties was performed using a special questionnaire on the incidence and causes of tooth cracks and fractures. RESULTS: According to the survey of dentists, the incidence of confirmed tooth cracks and fractures was 6.7% and 4.4% for extracted and treated teeth, respectively. Maxillary premolar roots were the most common site (59.1%), with longitudinal cracks/fractures predominating (68.2%). Of all reported cracks and fractures, 15.6% were only detected during an X-ray or CT examination. Overall, 87.7% of cracks and fractures were detected in devitalized teeth, 79.3% in patients with unreplaced missing teeth, dental cavities, or restoration of more than 50% of the occlusal surface (76.3% and 49.3%, respectively), and 30.6% in patients with root wall thinning. At least 65.0% of tooth destruction cases occurred within 5 years of devitalization, filling, or replacement. CONCLUSION: The study found that the main risk factors for tooth cracks and fractures (more than 10% of extracted and treated teeth) are devitalization and excessive load caused by incomplete dental restoration, as well as significant destruction of the crown, root wall thinning, and a long period following devitalization, filling, or replacement. More than half of all tooth cracks are longitudinal. Maxillary premolars are more prone to cracks and fractures. These factors can be used to predict long-term complications such as tooth cracks and fractures after dental tissue treatment.

Dental caries and antemortem tooth loss in Late Antique caucasian Iberia: A bioarchaeological study of Dusheti municipality and Great Mtskheta

This bioarchaeological study investigates the prevalence of dental caries and antemortem tooth loss (AMTL) in Late Antique populations of Dusheti municipality and Great Mtskheta in the Caucasus region of Georgia. Dental health data from 75 individuals and 666 examined teeth were analyzed to understand the relationships between dental pathologies, sex, age, and geographical location. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, were conducted to assess differences in caries and AMTL frequencies between sexes and regions. The results revealed significant disparities in dental health between Dusheti and Mtskheta, with higher AMTL prevalence observed in Dusheti. Furthermore, age and sex disparities in dental health were identified, with middle-aged adults exhibiting higher AMTL frequency and males demonstrating a higher prevalence of dental caries. These findings highlight the importance of considering historical, socio-economic, and geopolitical factors in understanding oral health outcomes in Late Antique populations. Further interdisciplinary research is recommended to enhance our understanding of oral health dynamics in ancient societies.

KMT2D regulates tooth enamel development.

Amelogenesis, the process of enamel formation, is tightly regulated and essential for producing the tooth enamel that protects teeth from decay and wear. Disruptions in amelogenesis can result in amelogenesis imperfecta, a group of genetic conditions characterized by defective enamel, including enamel hypoplasia, marked by thin or underdeveloped enamel. Mutations in the KMT2D (MLL4) gene, which encodes a histone H3-lysine 4-methyltransferase, are associated with Kabuki syndrome, a developmental disorder that can involve dental anomalies such as enamel hypoplasia. However, the specific role of KMT2D in amelogenesis remains poorly understood. To address this gap, we generated a conditional knockout mouse model with ectoderm-specific deletion of Kmt2d (Krt14-Cre;Kmt2d fl/fl , or Kmt2d-cKO) and characterized the resulting enamel defects using gross, radiographic, histological, cellular, and molecular analyses. Micro-computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy revealed that adult Kmt2d-cKO mice exhibited 100% penetrant amelogenesis imperfecta, characterized by hypoplastic and hypomineralized enamel, partially phenocopying human Kabuki syndrome. Additionally, Kmt2d-cKO neonates developed molar tooth germs with subtle cusp shape alterations and mild delays in ameloblast differentiation at birth. RNA-seq analysis of the first molar tooth germ at birth revealed that 33.7% of known amelogenesis-related genes were significantly downregulated in the Kmt2d-cKO teeth. Integration with KMT2D CUT&RUN-seq results identified 8 overlapping genes directly targeted by KMT2D. Re-analysis of a single-cell RNA-seq dataset in the developing mouse incisors revealed distinct roles for these genes in KMT2D-regulated differentiation across various cell subtypes within the dental epithelium. Among these genes, Satb1 and Sp6 are likely direct targets involved in the differentiation of pre-ameloblasts into ameloblasts. Taken together, we propose that KMT2D plays a crucial role in amelogenesis by directly activating key genes involved in ameloblast differentiation, offering insights into the molecular basis of enamel development and related dental pathologies.

Dental status as an indicator of the intensity of exposure to chemical pollution of the air in the working area

Introduction. Lack of knowledge of the oral status in chemical production workers determines the relevance of this study. In most studies, we did not find sufficiently comprehensive information about working conditions. Aims. To assess the risks of developing somatic and dental pathologies among chemical production operators depending on the intensity and duration of exposure to chemical factors in order to reduce the occupational cause of health deterioration. Materials and methods. A comprehensive clinical and hygienic examination was conducted in eight hundred seventy eight isoprene, divinyl, styrene, ethylene oxide production apparatchiks who were exposed to harmful substances. The working conditions are analyzed according to the production control data. The analysis of the microbial profile in periodontal pockets in 128 workers by polymerase chain reaction was performed. Results. In the studied industries, differences were noted in the levels of exposure of the chemical factor to the body: in the production of divinyl and isoprene, working conditions corresponded to hazard class 3.1, styrene to class 3.2, ethylene oxide to class 3.3. Styrene production workers had a high degree of industrial conditionality of chronic cholecystitis (RR=2.16; EF=53.6%), biliary dyskinesia paths (RR=2.53; EF=60.5%). Ethylene oxide production apparatchiks showed a high degree of industrial conditionality of subatrophic nasopharyngitis (RR=2.60; EF=61.6%), chronic catarrhal laryngitis (RR=2.83; EE=64.7%), and severe chronic periodontitis (RR=2.36; EF=57.7%). The high prevalence of periodontopathogens P. Gingivalis and A. Actinomycetemcomitans has been shown. Limitation. The lack of immunological and cytogenetic analysis data necessary for preclinical diagnosis of pathological changes in the oral cavity. Conclusion. Significant differences in the level of exposure of the chemical factor to the health in workers have been revealed. A high degree of industrial conditionality of a number of somatic diseases in workers of styrene and ethylene oxide industries has been determined. The greatest deviations in the state of oral health were observed in ethylene oxide production workers with more than 20 years of work experience. Differences in the species composition of the microbiome of periodontal pockets in ethylene oxide apparatchiks, depending on work experience, were detected.

Peroxisomal dysfunction interferes with odontogenesis and leads to developmentally delayed teeth and defects in distinct dental cells in Pex11b-deficient mice.

Human peroxisomal biogenesis disorders of the Zellweger syndrome spectrum affect skeletal development and induce tooth malformations. Whereas several peroxisomal knockout mouse studies elucidated the pathogenesis of skeletal defects, little information is available on how dental pathologies arise in peroxisomal biogenesis disorder patients. To understand the impact of severe peroxisomal dysfunction on early odontogenesis, here we performed morphometric studies on developing molars of new-born Pex11b knockout mice. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed reduced peroxisome number and mistargeting of the peroxisomal matrix enzyme catalase to the cytoplasm in several dental cell types of the Pex11b knockout animals. We also observed secondary mitochondrial alterations, comprising decreased staining of mitochondrial superoxide dismutase and of complex IV in cells of the developing molar. The peroxisomal defect caused by the PEX11b knockout also decreased the staining of cytokeratin intermediate filaments and of the secretory proteins amelogenin, osteopontin and osteocalcin. Interestingly, the staining of the gap junction protein connexin 43, an important modulator of tissue development, was also decreased, possibly causing the observed cellular disarrangement within the inner enamel epithelium and the odontoblast palisade. Taken together, our results show that the severe phenotype associated with the PEX11b knockout results in a reduction of the number of peroxisomes in dental cells and causes a delay odontogenesis. This adds a new component to the already described symptomatic spectrum induced by severe peroxisomal defects.

A rare case of impacted mandibular premolar associated to dentigerous cyst and periodontal lesion clinical management and histological analysis

Background: Dental cysts, particularly dentigerous cysts (DCs), are a common pathological condition affecting the jawbone. The literature categorizes DCs based on histology and associates them with impacted teeth, often leading to complications. However, the occurrence of DCs in the elderly and their association with mandibular premolars is not well-documented, presenting a knowledge gap in dental pathology and management. Objective: This case report aims to present a rare clinical case of an impacted mandibular premolar associated with a dentigerous cyst and a periodontal lesion, detailing the clinical management, radiographic diagnosis, histopathologic analysis, and surgical intervention. Case presentation: A 65-year-old male patient presented with pain and mobility in tooth 36. Clinical examination, radiographic imaging, and histological analysis were conducted to diagnose and plan the treatment—the treatment involved enucleation of the DC and extraction of the impacted tooth. Histological examination was performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining to determine the nature of the cyst. Results: The patient’s postoperative recovery was uneventful, with complete remineralization of the site after one year. Histological findings indicated a significant inflammatory infiltrate, predominantly lymphocytes, suggesting a periodontal cyst. The impacted mandibular premolar association with a DC in an elderly patient is rare, with the literature reporting a higher frequency of such cysts in younger demographics. Conclusions: The case report contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the successful management of a rare case of an impacted mandibular premolar with a dentigerous cyst and periodontal lesion. It emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment planning in managing complex dental cyst cases. It suggests a conservative approach to prevent surgical risks, especially near critical anatomical structures.

Navigating the Digital Frontier: Transforming Endodontic Diagnosis through Digitization. Part 2

The field of endodontics looks at the future with continual advances in technology and armamentariums for objective diagnostic methods to evaluate pulpal and peri-apical status. Research towards advances in digital technology, especially in imaging techniques and diagnostic tools, which strive to elevate the standard of care is the need of the hour. This review article discusses the technologies that require further research and their transformative potential in endodontic diagnosis. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Advances in diagnostic tools have improved accuracy in identifying and treating dental pathologies, thereby achieving more predictable outcomes and enhancing patient care.

The traumatized immature permanent incisor with pulpal involvement: what conservative treatment options?

Traumatology is the second most common dental pathology, after caries and before periodontal pathologies. It is currently accepted that one child in two suffers an alveolar-dental trauma before leaving school, with a peak incidence between the ages of 8 and 12, all types of trauma combined. The maxillary central incisors are most affected (79.6%), with mainly "simple" or "complex" coronal fractures when the pulp is involved. The main objective in managing these complex fractures is to preserve pulpal vitality within an acceptable timeframe. The author presents three pulp vitality preservation therapies involving tissue preservation and regeneration techniques using bioactive materials applied directly to the pulp. Materials and clinical protocols are described. Knowledge of pulp biology and healing processes has led to the development of vitality-preserving therapeutic strategies that have become essential in the management of traumatized teeth in children and adolescents. The regenerative potential of immature tooth pulp is considerable, enabling dentine repair through the use of bioactive materials. These therapies require a rigorous surgical approach that determines prognosis, and precise monitoring to ensure that any complications are intercepted.

INDICATORS OF FREE RADICAL OXIDATION AND ANTIOXIDANT PROTECTION IN THE ORAL FLUID OF CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC CATARRHAL GINGIVITIS AND DIABETIS MELLITUS

Failure of antioxidant mechanisms leads to an increase in lipid peroxidation products in the body, resulting in a non-specific cascade of cellular membrane damage. Proteins play a crucial role in metabolic processes, but when lipid peroxidation intensifies, protein modifications occur, leading to fragmentation, denaturation, and loss of biological activity. This disruption impairs tissue regenerative processes. The objective of this study was to analyze indicators of free radical oxidation and antioxidant protection in the oral fluid of children with chronic catarrhal gingivitis and type I diabetes mellitus. Materials and methods. A total of 170 children aged 12 to 16 were observed, including 130 who were examined and treated at the Endocrinology Department of the Regional Municipal Non-Profit Institution “Chernivtsi Regional Pediatric Clinical Hospital” for type 1 diabetes mellitus. Among them, 74 children had a disease duration of less than 5 years, including 65 with chronic catarrhal gingivitis. Sixty five children had diabetes for more than 5 years, with 44 of them diagnosed to have chronic catarrhal gingivitis. The children with chronic catarrhal gingivitis were further divided into groups based on their level of glycemic control: 1 child with optimal glycemic control, 66 with suboptimal glycemic control, and 42 with glycemic control at a high risk to life. The control group included 40 practically healthy children: 22 of them had clinically healthy periodontal tissues, and 18 children were diagnosed to suffer from chronic catarrhal gingivitis. Results. The study performed found out that children with chronic catarrhal gingivitis present increased indicators of lipid peroxide oxidation (protein oxidative modification, diene conjugates, malondialdehyde) and decreased activity of the enzyme in the antioxidant protective system of the oral fluid (whole protein, НS-groups, ceruloplasmin, activity of supermutase and catalase) in comparison with indicators of children without dental pathology. The most considerable changes were found in patients with chronic catarrhal gingivitis and type 1 diabetes mellitus, especially when the disease lasted more than 5 years (р<0,05).

Geometric morphometric approach to dental health in an 18th‐ to 19th‐century English infirmary

AbstractThis study evaluated correlations between poor dental health and craniomandibular morphology for the Radcliffe Infirmary population buried between 1770 and 1855. The Radcliffe Infirmary is situated in Oxford, 90 km northwest of London, in what used to be a rural area. The original report for this population observed high prevalence rates of dental caries, antemortem tooth loss (AMTL), and periodontal disease. Industrial societies are acknowledged to have highly processed foods that not only are detrimental to dental health but also require less mastication. This softening of diet is suggested to be the leading influence on the modern morphology of the skull. By using two‐dimensional geometric morphometrics (GM) and linear measurements of the skull, the Radcliffe population was evaluated for the effects of poor dental health and decreased wear on the masticatory structures. High frequencies of AMTL, periodontal disease, and caries and low amounts of dental wear were observed in this sample population. Caries and AMTL showed weak correlations with skull shape and craniomandibular dimensions according to the results of the morphometric analysis and Kendall's tau. Dental wear correlated with a wide bizygomatic breadth and a long narrow skull shape for the males only. Periodontal disease was the only dental health variable not correlated with shape or size. This study confirmed that the Radcliffe population ate a cariogenic diet and suggests that dental wear and pathology weakly correlates with craniomandibular shape and size. This unpredicted finding may be due to the limitations of two‐dimensional shape analysis, a small sample size, and the sampling strategy. Future research is highly encouraged to better understand the consequences of poor dental health for skull morphology.