Proximal Surfaces Research Articles

Evaluation of the Dislodgement Resistance of Traditional Adhesive Posterior Bridges Compared With Adhesive Posterior Bridges Prepared With Standard and Modified Slot-Back Dummies: An In Vitro Study.

Background Bridges with minimal preparation have received great acceptance in recent years. Since their first appearance, they have undergone many types of modifications and improvements. Aim This study aimed to compare three types of minimal preparation bridgesin terms of force required for dislodgement and the type of deformation incurred for each of the abutments and prostheses. Materials and methods The research sample consisted of 36 adhesive bridges divided into three equal groups. The first group contained traditional adhesive bridges prepared from the proximal and lingual surfaces with a thickness of 1 mm, the second group contained adhesive bridges with standard slot-back dummies, and the third group contained adhesive bridges with modified slot-back dummies. Each bridge underwent a pressure test, which was directed from the buccal toward the lingual sideand was inclined to the horizontal plane at an angle of 45°. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was conducted with a significance level of 0.05. Results The average dislodgement resistance value in the traditional adhesive bridges group was 480,858 N, with no statistically significant difference from the standard slot-back dummy group (p = 1), for which the average dislodgement resistance value was 486,050 N. The average dislodgement resistance valuein the modified slot-back dummy group was 746,733 N, with a statistically significant difference compared with other study groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion The adhesive bridge with the modified slot-back dummy showed higher dislodgement resistance compared to the traditional adhesive bridge and the adhesive bridge with the slot-back dummy.

Longitudinal tooth fracture indicating a questionable prognosis for an endodontist

Introduction and Objectives: Longitudinal fracture or vertical fracture of a tooth occurs at any level in the root and extends vertically. It has a high incidence of occurrence in the first molars. The most frequent sites to occur are the buccolingual surface and proximal surfaces of teeth. The etiology of fracture involves different factors in endodontically treated and non-endodontically treated teeth. Longitudinal fractures become the most challenging to diagnose and treat. This paper reviews these aspects of challenges and discusses the advantages and limitations of dental materials used for the treatment. Review Methods: PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched for articles on longitudinal tooth fractures between 2007 and 2022. The 16 current articles were selected. Brief Description of the State of Knowledge: As per the review of the literature, longitudinal fracture of the tooth is the most common fracture to occur due to excessive forces on the root canal-treated tooth. This occurs in endodontically treated teeth due to long-term application of calcium hydroxide, cracks caused during root canal preparation extended by the pressure of root canal obturation, and in non-endodontically treated teeth due to cyclic and heavy masticatory stress, and habitual chewing of hard food especially in males. Summary: Functional and esthetic outcomes following longitudinal fracture treatment are important considerations in the case of anterior teeth. Longitudinal fracture or vertical fracture of a tooth occurs mostly in the first molars. It is crucial to identify and manage actors for good prognosis, as restoration at a time can reduce fracture extension prevent microleakage.

Partial-Full-Thickness Tunnel Technique and Supra-Crestal Sling Suture for Treatment of RT2 and RT3 Gingival Recessions: Technical Report with Two Cases.

The purpose of this technical report is to describe a modified tunnel surgical approach and connective tissue graft (CTG) stabilization technique for the treatment of gingival recessions with interproximal clinical attachment loss (ICAL). The partial-full-thickness (PFT) tunnel technique utilizes multiple vestibular incisions to facilitate creation of a split-mucoperiosteal tunnel that enhances tissue passivity and allows for coronal advancement of soft tissue with minimal tension. The supra-crestal sling (SCS) suture engages only the CTG, independent of the overlying tissue and stabilizes the CTG around the buccal and proximal root surfaces. The treatment approach of PFT tunnel preparation and CTG stabilization with the SCS suture was designed to optimize blood supply and maximize wound stability, resulting in complete root coverage with satisfactory clinical outcomes in RT2 and RT3 gingival recession. It is suggested that the PFT tunnel preparation with graft stabilization via the SCS suture has the potential to treat recessions with anatomical limitations associated with ICAL.

A new sauropod dinosaur hindlimb from the Lower Cretaceous Wessex Formation, Isle of Wight, UK.

The Barremian-aged Wessex Formation of the Isle of Wight, UK, offers a globally significant glimpse into the sauropod dinosaur faunas of the early Cretaceous. These deposits have yielded specimens of several neosauropod lineages, such as rebbachisaurids, titanosauriforms (including some of the earliest titanosaur remains), and possible flagellicaudatans. Here, we report an undescribed sauropod partial hindlimb from the Wessex Formation (NHMUK PV R16500) and analyse its phylogenetic affinities. This hindlimb preserves the left tibia, astragalus and pes, lacking only a few phalanges. NHMUK PV R16500 can be diagnosed based on two autapomorphies: an unusually high distal end to midshaft transverse width ratio in metatarsals III and IV, and the presence of small bump-like projections located in the centre of the proximal articular surfaces of the unguals of pedal digits I and II. The phylogenetic affinities of NHMUK PV R16500 are uncertain: although our analyses recover it as an early-branching somphospondylan, a single character change moves it to close to Flagellicaudata when extended implied weighting is applied. The possibility of flagellicaudatan affinities for NHMUK PV R16500 implies a potential ghost lineage that survived the Jurassic/Cretaceous boundary; however, we present evidence that the somphospondylan position is more probable and should be preferred.

In vitro early proximal caries detection using trilateral short-wave infrared reflection at 1050 and 1550 nm.

This in vitro study evaluated the diagnostic potential of short-wave infrared reflection (SWIRR) at 1050 and 1550 nm for proximal caries detection from the occlusal, buccal and lingual surfaces of posterior teeth under clinically relevant conditions. Bitewing radiography (BWR) was the alternative index test and micro-computed tomography (μCT) the reference standard. 250 proximal surfaces of extracted human teeth were examined using SWIRR at 1050 and 1550 nm and BWR. SWIRR, BWR and μCT findings were evaluated twice by two trained examiners. SWIRR images were evaluated from occlusal and trilateral (occlusal, buccal and lingual combined) views. Sensitivity, specificity and AUC were calculated. Reliability assessment was performed using κ statistics. SWIRR (1050 nm) showed sensitivity of 0.44 for occlusal and 0.55 for trilateral assessment, paired with specificity of 0.96 and 0.90, whereas SWIRR (1550 nm) showed sensitivity of 0.73 and 0.85 paired with specificity of 0.76 and 0.59. Compared to occlusal view, trilateral SWIRR view revealed ≈10% higher sensitivity and lower specificity. BWR revealed lowest sensitivity (0.30) and highest specificity (0.99). Over-and underestimation of caries demonstrated opposite trends: from 1050-1550 nm, overestimation of trilateral SWIRR increased (0.08-0.29), while underestimation decreased (0.15-0.06). Trilateral SWIRR has higher sensitivity and lower specificity for proximal caries, than occlusal SWIRR. 1050 nm are more suitable for trilateral SWIRR and 1550 nm for occlusal examinations. A combination of SWIRR at 1050 and 1550 nm may exhibit a balanced sensitivity and specificity for proximal caries.

Enamel caries lesions, with and without initial cavitation, in relation to anatomical areas of the proximal surface in deciduous molars

Objectiveproximal enamel caries lesions (PEC) are believed to initiate and progress to cavitation below the proximal contact area (PCA), but no evidence exists on the location of initial carious cavitation on the proximal surface with functional PCA. This study aimed to test the association of anatomical areas of the proximal surface with the severity of PEC and the frequency of cavitation in PEC in primary molars Designlaboratory, observational, transversal study. Exfoliated primary molars (n = 33) with functional PCA (biofilm-free PCA surrounded by biofilm) had their proximal surfaces (one/tooth) divided anatomically into up to nine areas: 3 areas based on the occlusal/cervical PCA boundaries (areas I, II, and III; occluso-cervically) and 3 areas based on the bucco/lingual PCA boundaries (A, B, and C), with area IIB representing the PCA and area IIIB as the sub-PCA (below the PCA). PEC (ICDAS scores 1 and 2–3) and cavitation in PEC were quantified in all areas using stereomicroscopy and microCT. PEC volume was quantified in areas IIB and IIIB under microCT ResultsPEC severity increased occluso-cervically. PCA and sub-PCA presented different PEC severities (higher in sub-PCA) and similar PCE volumes, but the odds of carious cavitation were much higher (Odds ratio = 197.4; 95 % CI: 8.7/4480.7) in the PCA than in the sub-PCA (no cavitation). ConclusionPCA presented lower PEC severity and similar PEC volume compared to sub-PCA, but PCA concentrated all cavitations in PEC, supporting a new model for the pathogenesis of PEC.

In vitro Assessment of lesion activity using simultaneous time-resolved reflectance imaging at 1300 and 1950nm.

The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of a time-resolved reflectance imaging system employing a single photodetector to assess the activity of caries lesions that exploits the differential absorption of water at 1300 and 1950nm. The time-resolved reflectivity of 10 active and 10 arrested lesions on the proximal surfaces and 5 active and 5 arrested lesions on the occlusal surfaces of extracted teeth were monitored simultaneously at 1300 and 1950nm during forced air drying for 60s. The presence of a highly mineralized surface zone measured with microcomputed tomography (microCT) was used to indicate lesion activity. Multiple kinetic parameters were extracted from the acquired short wavelength infrared (SWIR) intensity versus time dehydration curves and used to assess lesion activity. Differences in the reflectivity between curves acquired at 1300 and 1950nm due to differential absorption of water provided improved discrimination between active and arrested lesions over the use of 1950nm alone. This study demonstrates that it is feasible to use a device with a single photodetector operating at 1950nm to collect dehydration curves for the assessment of lesion activity and that a system employing two SWIR wavelengths with differential water absorption can improve the performance of lesion activity assessment.

Caries lesions progression in adults: A prospective 2-year cohort study.

Dental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic non-communicable diseases worldwide. There is a lack of evidence, especially in adult populations, documenting caries disease progression considering lesion severity, activity and tooth surface-level characteristics. The study aimed to investigate the extent to which primary active caries lesions in adults affect caries lesions progression compared with inactive caries lesions over a 2-year follow-up period, considering their severity, surface and tooth type. A prospective study data set from a cohort of workers in a factory in Belarus were used. Participants aged 18-64 years with 20 or more natural teeth were included in the study. The participants were clinically examined twice within an interval of 2 years and completed a self-reported questionnaire. One calibrated examiner evaluated caries lesions using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) and the Nyvad system. The primary outcome was caries lesions' progression. The lesion was classified as 'progressed' if it turned to a more advanced severity stage, was restored or missing/extracted due to caries. A multilevel Poisson regression was used to estimate the association between baseline caries lesions' characteristics and caries lesion progression. Out of 495 participants, 322 people completed clinical examinations at baseline and 2 years later, with an attrition rate of 35%. The prevalence of active DS1-6 and DS5-6 lesions at the baseline was 83.8% and 64.8%, respectively. In 2 years, 24% of active non-cavitated and 31% of active micro-cavitated/shadowed caries lesions progressed, while 15% of inactive caries lesions, non- or micro-cavitated/shadowed, progressed. The adjusted rate ratio (RR) for ICDAS3 + 4 caries lesions progression was 1.41 (CI 95% 1.16, 1.70) than ICDAS1 + 2 lesions. The RR for ICDAS1 + 2, active and ICDAS3 + 4, active lesions was 1.78 (CI 95%, 1.40, 2.27) and 1.97 (CI 95%, 1.53, 2.55), respectively than ICDAS1 + 2, inactive lesions. The RR for caries lesions progression on proximal surfaces and on pits and fissures was 1.57 (CI 95%, 1.30, 1.89) and 1.37 (CI 95%, 1.11, 1.67), respectively than smooth surface lesions. In caries active adults over 2 years, most non- and micro-cavitated/shadowed active and inactive caries lesions did not progress. Among caries lesions that showed progression, more severe lesions were more likely to progress than less severe lesions; active lesions were more likely to progress than inactive lesions. Pit and fissure caries lesions and proximal lesions were more likely to progress than smooth surface lesions.

Clinical SWIR and CP-OCT imaging of interproximal lesions

BackgroundEnamel is highly transparent at short wavelength infrared imaging (SWIR) wavelengths allowing the detection of dental decay without the need for ionizing radiation. The purpose of this study was to use SWIR imaging methods including cross polarization optical coherence tomography (CP-OCT), occlusal transillumination (SWIR-OT), proximal transillumination (SWIR-PT), and occlusal reflectance (SWIR-R) to image interproximal lesions in vivo and compare the sensitivity with radiography.MethodsParticipants (n = 30) aged 18–80 each with a radiopositive interproximal lesion scheduled for restoration were enrolled in the study. Studies have shown that the opposing proximal surfaces across the contact will likely also have lesions. SWIR images were acquired of the adjoining teeth at each contact with an interproximal lesion scheduled for restoration. Lesion presence and depth were assessed on each side of the contact for radiography and each SWIR imaging method. Lesions on radiographs and in CP-OCT images were identified by a single examiner while lesions in SWIR images were identified by a contrast threshold via semi-automatic image segmentation.ResultsAll SWIR imaging methods had significantly higher sensitivity (P < 0.05) than radiographs for the detection of interproximal lesions on the teeth opposite those restored. CP-OCT and SWIR-R imaging methods had significantly higher sensitivity than the other methods. SWIR imaging methods showed significantly higher lesion contrast than radiography.ConclusionsSWIR imaging methods can be used to detect interproximal lesions on posterior teeth with higher diagnostic performance than radiographs. CP-OCT appears well suited as a potential gold standard for the detection of interproximal lesions and assessment of their severity in vivo.

Developing the Benchmark: Establishing a Gold Standard for the Evaluation of AI Caries Diagnostics.

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to establish a histology-based gold standard for the evaluation of artificial intelligence (AI)-based caries detection systems on proximal surfaces in bitewing images. Methods: Extracted human teeth were used to simulate intraoral situations, including caries-free teeth, teeth with artificially created defects and teeth with natural proximal caries. All 153 simulations were radiographed from seven angles, resulting in 1071 in vitro bitewing images. Histological examination of the carious lesion depth was performed twice by an expert. A total of thirty examiners analyzed all the radiographs for caries. Results: We generated in vitro bitewing images to evaluate the performance of AI-based carious lesion detection against a histological gold standard. All examiners achieved a sensitivity of 0.565, a Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) of 0.578 and an area under the curve (AUC) of 76.1. The histology receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve significantly outperformed the examiners' ROC curve (p < 0.001). All examiners distinguished induced defects from true caries in 54.6% of cases and correctly classified 99.8% of all teeth. Expert caries classification of the histological images showed a high level of agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.993). Examiner performance varied with caries depth (p ≤ 0.008), except between E2 and E1 lesions (p = 1), while central beam eccentricity, gender, occupation and experience had no significant influence (all p ≥ 0.411). Conclusions: This study successfully established an unbiased dataset to evaluate AI-based caries detection on bitewing surfaces and compare it to human judgement, providing a standardized assessment for fair comparison between AI technologies and helping dental professionals to select reliable diagnostic tools.

Color Matching of Single-Shade Composite Resin by Various Pulp Capping Materials in Anterior Teeth

This study aimed to compare color matching between single-shade composite resin-restored teeth with various pulp capping materials and the dentin surrounding the restoration through instrumental analysis and visual evaluation of the color difference. Fifty maxillary right central incisor acrylic resin teeth were prepared with standardized Class III cavities on the proximal surfaces. These teeth were divided into five groups: restored with single-shade composite resin only; Ultra-Blend™ plus followed by single-shade composite resin; TheraCal PT™ followed by single-shade composite resin; Endocem&lt;sup&gt;®&lt;/sup&gt; MTA premixed followed by single-shade composite resin; and Well-root PT™ followed by single-shade composite resin. The color difference (ΔE&lt;sub&gt;ab&lt;/sub&gt;&lt;sup&gt;*&lt;/sup&gt;) between the restored area and the center of the resin teeth was measured using a spectrophotometer. No significant color difference was observed in groups restored with only single-shade composite resin, Ultra-Blend™ plus, and TheraCal PT™. The visual evaluation revealed that Ultra-Blend™ plus exhibited the best color matching score, whereas the Endocem® MTA premixed and Well-root PT™ groups showed significantly lower color matching scores than the single-shade composite resin-only group. When opting for single-shade composite resin usage for anterior tooth restorations with the aim of reducing chair time, pulp capping materials UltraBlend™ plus and TheraCal PT™ provide esthetically pleasing results.

Food impaction on three-dimensional printed models with periodontal ligament simulation.

This study aims to evaluate food impaction on three-dimensional (3D) printed models with periodontal ligament simulation. Based on a commercial typodont pair, 3D maxillary and mandibular models were created with no teeth and with tooth sockets that were 1 mm wider than the original ones from 24 to 27 or 34 to 37 for periodontal ligament simulation with vinyl polysiloxane impression material. In total, 35 pairs of 7 combinations, including maxillary/mandibular typodonts in occlusion with maxillary/mandibular 3D models with/without a distal gap of canines on 3D models (tooth 23 or 33) were mounted on hinge articulators and divided into seven groups (n = 5). Each sample experienced the same manual chewing simulation on a customized device. The proximal surfaces were photographed to measure the percentage of food impaction area using ImageJ software. Group with fixed maxillary and mandibular teeth showed more food impaction than other groups with significant differences in the average of maxilla and the average of all proximal areas. The flexibility of the periodontal ligament and the degree of freedom of the teeth in their sockets may contribute to the extent of food impaction in proximal spaces.

Dorso Proximal Interphalangeal Island Flap

Background: This study aimed to demonstrate the clinical application of the dorsoproximal interphalangeal island flap as an alternative approach to skin graft or cross-finger flap to repair lesions at the ventral site at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) finger joint. Methods: Fifteen patients received flaps (11 men and four women, n = 25 flaps). The repair of volar contracture in finger sequelae after burn injuries was the main indication. Five patients underwent two or more flaps during the same surgical session. The mean patient age was 18 years (range, 7–56 years). Most patients presented with palmar finger contractures of the PIP joint. In three patients, six flaps were rotated to the lateral radial and ulnar proximal surfaces of the finger to treat syndactyly. Results: Most flaps survived and provided satisfactory functional and aesthetic improvement of palmar scar contracture in the PIP region. Postoperative donor site follow-up was normal. The color and pliability of the skin are similar to those of the surrounding area. The follow-up period ranged from 6 months to 12 years. Conclusions: Dorsoproximal interphalangeal island flaps are an option for repairing lesions that lack soft tissue and range in size from 10 × 15 to 12 × 18 mm at the volar site and around the PIP joint. The arch of rotation of this flap allows for lateral, ulnar, and radial rotations around the joint. The indication of six flaps in three patients to repair a proximal lack of tissue caused by syndactyly demonstrated its potential use in this anomaly.

Depth dose measurement by using Al2O3 OSL dosimeters in high energy photons in the presence of air cavity and density inhomogeneity

Air cavities and tissue density inhomogeneity significantly affects the distribution of radiation doses, potentially resulting in adverse consequences such as cancer recurrence. This research aims to assess the accuracy of Al2O3 optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimeters in measuring doses within varying thicknesses of air cavities (3, 5, and 8 cm) and tissue inhomogeneity of low and high density simulated by the lung and bone phantoms. An expanded polystyrene (EPS) was employed in homogeneous solid water® phantoms to simulate the air cavity. The percentage depth-dose (PDD) curves at 6 MV photons were obtained in both presence of air cavity and density inhomogeneity and compared to that in the EBT3 radiochromic film dosimeters and treatment planning system (TPS). The results indicated that the presence of an air cavity and tissue inhomogeneity affected the depth dose measured in OSL dosimeters, EBT3 films and TPS. OSLD and TPS showed good agreement at the centre of the cavity, which is within ±5% but could not estimate scattered radiation to the distal and proximal surfaces of the air cavity. The obtained p-values showed no significant differences of dose measured in OSL dosimeters compared to those in EBT3 films and TPS. The Kruskal Wallis test and Mann-Whitney showed no significant difference between OSL dosimeters, EBT3 film and TPS in the measurement of depth doses in the presence of density inhomogeneity. The overall results indicated the suitability of OSL dosimeters as indirect dosimeters for the measurements of depth dose in the presence of air cavity and tissue density inhomogeneity

In Vitro Evaluation of Sealing Ability of Biodentine and TheraCal PT in Primary Molars.

A major objective in the management of deep carious lesions involving proximal surfaces of primary molars is to control marginal leakage. This could occur due to dimensional changes or failure in the adaptation of pulp capping materials to the prepared cavity. Evaluation of microleakage is important for assessing the success of newer pulp capping materials. Biodentine exhibits good sealing ability but possesses longer setting times and handling difficulties, which might delay the placement of the final restoration. The sealing ability of newer dual-cure calcium silicate-based material in TheraCal PT in class II cavities of primary molars is not known. Hence, the current study aimed to evaluate and compare the microleakage of Biodentine and TheraCal PT in primary molars. Extracted, noncarious primary molars (n = 28) were collected, and standardized class II cavities were prepared and restored with Biodentine (group I) and TheraCal PT (group II). Following this type, IX glass ionomer cement (GIC) was placed and polished. Microleakage was assessed using the dye penetration method, and data obtained through stereomicroscopic analysis were statistically analyzed. The mean microleakage score observed in group I was 2.0 ± 1.3 MPa, and in group II was 1.0 ± 1.1 MPa. Comparable sealing ability was observed between both groups (p = 0.061). TheraCal PT could be used as a suitable alternative to Biodentine for use in vital pulp therapeutic procedures in children to reduce the treatment time and improve sealing ability. Anusha B, Shivashankarappa PG, Mohandoss S, et al. In Vitro Evaluation of Sealing Ability of Biodentine and TheraCal PT in Primary Molars. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(2):158-161.

Progression of proximal caries in primary molars using the radiographic ICDAS: a retrospective cohort study.

To evaluate the proximal caries progression in primary molars using the radiographic International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS). A study was conducted on 196 children aged 3-9 years old who underwent the clinical examination and bitewing radiography during baseline and 6-month (and over) follow-up visits. The primary molars bitewing radiographs with initial enamel caries (RA1 and RA2) or outer dentine caries (RA3) of proximal surfaces were included. Caries advancement was scored using ICDAS criteria and statistical analyses with the chi-square test. Median survival time was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival curves and log-rank tests. A total of 439 surfaces of primary molars were included in this study and an averaged follow-up period of enamel and dentine caries group were 18.3 ± 9.6 months and 16.5 ± 9.5 months respectively. The progression of proximal enamel lesions significantly differed between primary maxillary and mandibular molars (p = 0.002) and among each patient's primary mandibular second molar and the others (p = 0.002). On the contrary, the outer dentine caries of each group of primary molars was not different. The median survival time of the initial enamel proximal caries (23.30 months) was non-significantly longer than that of the dentine (20.80 months). Progressions of the initial enamel proximal caries were significantly different among primary molars at the average 18.3-month follow-up. The median survival period of the enamel proximal caries was more extended than that of dentine but without statistical difference. These results provide essential information for dentists regarding an appropriate appointment for bitewing examinations.

Comparison of near-infrared imaging with cone-beam computed tomography for proximal caries detection in permanent dentition: An in vivo study

ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of near-infrared imaging (NIRI) and unaided visual examination (UVE) in detecting proximal caries in permanent dentition in comparison with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). MethodsPatients who underwent NIRI, UVE, and CBCT imaging within 1 week were enrolled. Using CBCT as the reference test, the positive percent agreement (PPA), negative percent agreement (NPA), and overall percent agreement (OPA) of NIRI, UVE, and a combination of the two for detecting proximal caries at different depths and in different tooth locations were assessed. Additionally, the consistency of these diagnostic methods with CBCT was evaluated. ResultsWe evaluated 6,084 proximal surfaces and identified 177 CBCT-positive sites. NIRI had a PPA, NPA, and OPA of 68.93 %, 99.09 %, and 98.21 %, respectively, with a substantial agreement with CBCT. When combined with UVE, the PPA increased by approximately 50 % compared with that of UVE alone. Regarding caries at different depths, NIRI outperformed UVE in detecting initial caries (ICDAS 1–2) over moderate-to-advanced caries (ICDAS 3–6). However, the combined use of NIRI and UVE improved the detection of moderate-to-advanced caries. In the anterior teeth region, NIRI exhibited excellent agreement with CBCT, surpassing its performance in the posterior region. ConclusionsAlthough NIRI cannot fully replace radiographic methods, the substantial agreement of NIRI with CBCT in detecting proximal caries highlights its potential as a complementary tool in routine caries screening, especially when combined with UVE. Clinical SignificanceThis study highlights the potential of NIRI as a radiation-free method for detecting proximal caries in permanent teeth. Early detection through regular NIRI scanning can lead to timely intervention, improved patient outcomes, and reduced overall disease burden.

Clinical and Radiographic Progression of Proximal Enamel Caries of Primary Molars Following the Application of Resin Infiltrant vs Tooth Mousse.

Resin infiltration is a technique in which a low-viscosity resin penetrates the proximal carious lesions and stops caries progression. This study aimed to compare the progression of proximal enamel caries of primary molars following the application of resin infiltrant clinically and radiographically vs Tooth Mousse. This case-control split-mouth study evaluated 64 proximal surfaces of primary molars in 32 patients. Each patient had one pair of noncavitated proximal caries in two primary molars from different quadrants with radiographic evidence of enamel involvement. The carious lesions in each patient were randomly treated with resin infiltrant and Tooth Mousse. Progression of carious lesions was evaluated clinically and radiographically after 12 months. The two groups were compared by Fisher's exact test. No caries progression was noted in the resin infiltrant group at 12 months, and all 32 surfaces (100%) showed cessation of caries. Four surfaces (12.5%) in the Tooth Mousse group showed caries progression. The two groups were not significantly different in this regard (p = 0.242). Resin infiltrant and Tooth Mousse were both effective in stopping the progression of proximal enamel caries of primary molars. Baniebrahim G, Seraj B, Ghonche Z, et al. Clinical and Radiographic Progression of Proximal Enamel Caries of Primary Molars Following the Application of Resin Infiltrant vs Tooth Mousse. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(4):385-389.

Romanian dentists’ perception about direct restoration of dental caries on adjacent teeth: current techniques and materials, restorations longevity and failures. Part II

Proximal surfaces of both anterior and posterior teeth frequently present dental caries, as a result of complex coronal morphology and other associated factors which favors bacterial microfilm retention. In this article we present the second part results of a cross-sectional study, using a questionnaire that was distributed to a number of 110 Romanian dentists. We investigated the most used dental materials and techniques and correlations with oral restorations longevity, and also the failures and patients‘ complaints. The results indicate a modern, up to date approach of direct restoration in adjacent teeth from Romanian interviewed dentist.

Utilization of 3D evaluation for assessing selective caries removal practice in pre-clinical dental students: a pilot study

BackgroundPracticing and assessment of selective caries removal techniques in dental students remain challenges in many dental schools. The aim of this study was to utilize a 3D assessment technique, within a designated acceptable range of deviation, to evaluate the tendency of dental students in performing selective caries removal (SCR). The correlation between 3D assessment results and the conventional rubric rated by an instructor was also determined.MethodsFifth-year dental students (n = 61) performed the SCR task on 3D-printed teeth containing simulated deep caries lesions in occlusal and proximal surfaces. One instructor assessed the results using a conventional analytic rubric. The excavated teeth were additionally evaluated using 3D analysis software with the designated acceptable range of deviations (± 0.5 mm) from the standard cavities. The average root mean square (RMS) value, representing the deviation between student-prepared cavities and the predefined standard cavities, was recorded. A tendency towards over-excavation was defined for RMS values > 0.5 mm, and towards under-excavation for RMS values < 0.5 mm.ResultsThe mean (min-max) of RMS was 0.27 (0.18–0.40) for occlusal and 0.29 (0.20–0.57)for proximal cavities. A tendency of dental students toward over-excavation was observed in both occlusal (74%) and proximal cavities (87%). There was a moderate negative correlation between the RMS values and the traditional rubric scores for both occlusal (R2 = 0.148, P = 0.002) and proximal cavities (R2 = 0.107, P = 0.010).ConclusionsThe 3D evaluation technique effectively revealed specific tendencies in dental students’ caries removal skills. The integration of computerized assessments with traditional methods could potentially assist the instructors in delivering more objective and specific feedback to students. Further research is encouraged to investigate the impact of this assessment technique on improving student performance in selective caries removal skills.