Supporting Structures Of Teeth Research Articles

The Efficacy of Ozonated Water in One-stage Full-mouth Disinfection amongst Chronic Periodontitis Patients: A Randomised Control Trial

Abstract Introduction: Periodontal disease, causing tooth-supporting structure damage due to bacterial build-up, is linked to various risk factors. Traditional treatment involved scheduled scaling and root planing. Full-mouth disinfection (FMD), introduced in 1995, involves comprehensive cleaning and chlorhexidine (CHX) application within 24 h to prevent bacterial spread. CHX, a potent antimicrobial, is widely used in FMD, but concerns about emerging resistance have led to the exploration of alternatives like ozonated water, which has shown promising antimicrobial properties and the potential to improve periodontal health. Materials and Methods: This is a randomised controlled trial involving 40 participants with Stage II or III periodontitis who were randomly grouped into two groups. Group A was advised to use 0.2% CHX solution, and Group B used a 10 μg concentration of ozonated water. Both the groups cleaned their dorsum of the tongue, rinsed their mouth, had a pharyngeal spray and had periodontal pockets irrigated using the respective solutions. Plaque index, papillary bleeding index, gingival index, relative attachment level and probing depth were measured at baseline, 3 months and 6 months. Results: Significant differences were found at baseline, 3-month and 6-month values of periodontal index, papillary bleeding index, probing depth, gingival index and relative attachment level amongst Group A and B participants. Differences were noted in between Groups A and B in the periodontal index at 6 months between CHX and ozonated water and between 3 and 6 months for probing depth. Around 68%, 70%, 66%, 68% and 63% improvements were noted in the periodontal index, probing depth, gingival index, papillary bleeding index and relative attachment loss amongst Group B. Conclusion: Ozonated water represents a promising adjunctive therapy for chronic periodontitis, demonstrating significant clinical efficacy in one-stage FMD protocols.

The Connection Between the Oral Microbiota and the Kynurenine Pathway: Insights into Oral and Certain Systemic Disorders

The oral microbiome, comprising bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa, is essential for maintaining both oral and systemic health. This complex ecosystem includes over 700 bacterial species, such as Streptococcus mutans, which contributes to dental caries through acid production that demineralizes tooth enamel. Fungi like Candida and pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis are also significant, as they can lead to periodontal diseases through inflammation and destruction of tooth-supporting structures. Dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, is a key factor in the development of these oral diseases. Understanding the composition and functions of the oral microbiome is vital for creating targeted therapies for these conditions. Additionally, the kynurenine pathway, which processes the amino acid tryptophan, plays a crucial role in immune regulation, neuroprotection, and inflammation. Oral bacteria can metabolize tryptophan, influencing the production of kynurenine, kynurenic acid, and quinolinic acid, thereby affecting the kynurenine system. The balance of microbial species in the oral cavity can impact tryptophan levels and its metabolites. This narrative review aims to explore the relationship between the oral microbiome, oral diseases, and the kynurenine system in relation to certain systemic diseases.

Microbial Dynamics in Periodontal Regeneration: Understanding Microbiome Shifts and the Role of Antifouling and Bactericidal Materials: A Narrative Review

Periodontal regeneration is a multifaceted therapeutic approach to restore the tooth-supporting structures lost due to periodontal diseases. This manuscript explores the intricate interactions between regenerative therapies and the oral microbiome, emphasizing the critical role of microbial balance in achieving long-term success. While guided tissue regeneration (GTR), bone grafting, and soft tissue grafting offer promising outcomes in terms of tissue regeneration, these procedures can inadvertently alter the oral microbial ecosystem, potentially leading to dysbiosis or pathogenic recolonization. Different grafting materials, including autografts, allografts, xenografts, and alloplasts, influence microbial shifts, with variations in the healing timeline and microbial stabilization. Biologics and antimicrobials, such as enamel matrix derivatives (EMD) and sub-antimicrobial dose doxycycline (SDD), play a key role in promoting microbial homeostasis by supporting tissue repair and reducing pathogenic bacteria. Emerging strategies, such as enzyme-based therapies and antifouling materials, aim to disrupt biofilm formation and enhance the effectiveness of periodontal treatments. Understanding these microbial dynamics is essential for optimizing regenerative therapies and improving patient outcomes. The future of periodontal therapy lies in the development of advanced materials and strategies that not only restore lost tissues but also stabilize the oral microbiome, ultimately leading to long-term periodontal health.

Development of a Custom Fluid Flow Chamber for Investigating the Effects of Shear Stress on Periodontal Ligament Cells.

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is crucial for maintaining the integrity and functionality of tooth-supporting structures. Mechanical forces applied to the tooth during orthodontic tooth movement generate pore pressure gradients, leading to interstitial fluid movement within the PDL. The generated fluid shear stress (FSS) stimulates the remodeling of PDL and alveolar bone. Herein, we present the construction of a parallel fluid-flow apparatus to determine the effect of FSS on PDL cells. The chamber was designed and optimized using computer-aided and computational fluid dynamics software. The chamber was formed by PDMS using a negative molding technique. hPDLCs from two donors were seeded on microscopic slides and exposed to FSS of 6 dyn/cm2 for 1 h. The effect of FSS on gene and protein expression was determined using RT-qPCR and Western blot. FSS upregulated genes responsible for mechanosensing (FOS), tissue formation (RUNX2, VEGFA), and inflammation (PTGS2/COX2, CXCL8/IL8, IL6) in both donors, with donor 2 showing higher gene upregulation. Protein expression of PTGS2/COX2 was higher in donor 2 but not in donor 1. RUNX2 protein was not expressed in either donor after FSS. In summary, FSS is crucial in regulating gene expression linked to PDL remodeling and inflammation, with donor variability potentially affecting outcomes.

Correlation of Stress and Oral Inflammatory Burden in Patients With Chronic Periodontitis in a Sample Population From Bhopal: A Randomized Clinical Study.

Introduction Chronic periodontitis is a prevalent inflammatory disease that leads to the destruction of tooth-supporting structures. Psychological stress is a potential risk factor for periodontitis, potentially exacerbating inflammation and impairing treatment outcomes. This study aims to explore the correlation between chronic stress and oral inflammatory burden, as measured by the Periodontal Inflamed Surface Area (PISA), in a sample population from Bhopal, India. Methods This randomized clinical study included 1,250 participants, divided into three groups: Group A (control, n=250), Group B (chronic periodontitis, n=500), and Group C (post-treatment chronic periodontitis, n=500). Participants underwent a comprehensive periodontal examination, including the calculation of PISA, and completed the Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10) to assess stress levels. Statistical analysis included Pearson's correlation to assess the relationship between PSS-10 scores and PISA, with comparisons among groups using analysis of variance or Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results Group B exhibited significantly higher periodontal parameters and PSS-10 scores than Group A and Group C (p<0.001 for all comparisons). Group C showed significant improvements in both periodontal parameters and PSS-10 scores following treatment (p<0.001). A positive correlation was observed between PSS-10 scores and PISA in Group B (r=0.62, p<0.001), indicating that higher perceived stress was associated with increased oral inflammation in untreated chronic periodontitis. This correlation persisted after adjusting for confounders, including age, sex, and socioeconomic status. Conclusions Chronic stress is significantly associated with increased oral inflammatory burden in patients with chronic periodontitis, suggesting that stress may act as an independent risk factor for disease progression. Periodontal therapy reduces oral inflammation and alleviates psychological distress. Integrating stress management into periodontal treatment plans may enhance patient outcomes, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to periodontal care.

Assessing the therapeutic potential of Ganoderma lucidum spore oil in alleviating periodontal tissue damage in murine periodontitis model

Periodontal disease presents a significant challenge in oral health due to its chronic inflammatory nature and subsequent degradation of tooth-supporting structures. Natural compounds have attracted attention for their potential therapeutic effects in alleviating symptoms of periodontitis (PD). In this study, we investigated the impact of Ganoderma lucidum spore oil (GLSO), a lipid component extracted from broken-walled GLS using the supercritical CO2 extraction method, on PD pathogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Treatment of human gingival fibroblasts with GLSO resulted in a significant reduction in the expression of inflammatory factors, including matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and interleukin (IL)-8, upregulated by lipopolysaccharide or IL-1β. Molecular mechanism studies revealed that the observed decrease in inflammatory factor expression may be attributed to the inhibition of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase activity by GLSO. Furthermore, intraperitoneal injection of GLSO in a ligature-induced PD mouse model led to a notable reduction in periodontal inflammation and alveolar bone loss, accompanied by decreased levels of MMP-1 and IL-8. These in vivo results support the potential therapeutic efficacy of GLSO in alleviating PD symptoms. Overall, our study provides novel insights into the beneficial effects of GLSO in PD management. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and explore the clinical applicability of GLSO as a promising therapeutic agent for PD treatment.

Annexin A1 protects periodontal ligament cells against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response and cellular senescence: An implication in periodontitis.

Periodontitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the tooth-supporting structures, triggered by the host's immune response toward the bacterial deposits around the teeth. Annexin A1 (AnxA1), a vital member of the annexin superfamily, is known for its diverse physiological functions, particularly its anti-inflammatory and anti-senescence properties. We hypothesized that AnxA1 has a protective effect against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory responses and cellular damage in periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs). In this study, we demonstrate that LPS stimulation significantly reduced telomerase activity in PDLCs, a decline that was dose-dependently reversed by AnxA1. Importantly, AnxA1 protected the cells from LPS-induced cellular senescence and the downregulation of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) expression. In line with this, AnxA1 suppressed the LPS-induced expression of p21 and p16 at both the mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, AnxA1 demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the secretion of interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). It also mitigated LPS-induced oxidative stress by reducing the levels of phosphorylated Foxo3a (Ser253) and restored sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression. Notably, SIRT1 silencing abolished AnxA1's protective effects on Foxo3a phosphorylation and cellular senescence, suggesting that SIRT1 mediates AnxA1's actions. In conclusion, AnxA1 protected PDLCs against LPS-triggered inflammation and cell senescence by activating SIRT1 signal pathway. These findings indicate that AnxA1 could serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of periodontitis.

The PerioGene North Study Uncovers Serum Proteins Related to Periodontitis

The sequalae of periodontitis include irreversible degradation of tooth-supporting structures and circulatory spread of inflammatory mediators. However, the serum protein profile in periodontitis is not well described, which is partly attributable to the limited number of studies based on large and well-characterized periodontitis cohorts. This study aims to identify novel, circulating inflammation-related proteins associated with periodontitis within the PerioGene North case-control study, which includes 478 cases with severe periodontitis and 509 periodontally healthy controls. The serum concentrations of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and a panel of 45 inflammation-related proteins were analyzed using targeted proteomics. A distinguishable serum protein profile was evident in periodontitis cases. The protein pattern could separate cases from controls with a sensitivity of 0.81 and specificity of 0.81 (area under the curve = 0.87). Adjusted levels for hs-CRP and 24 of the 45 proteins were different between cases and controls. High levels of hs-CRP and matrix metalloproteinase–12, and low levels of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 (OLR-1) were detected among the cases. Furthermore, the levels of C-C motif chemokine–19, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor–3 (CSF-3), interleukin-7 (IL-7), and hs-CRP were significantly higher in cases with a high degree of gingival inflammation. The levels of CSF-3 and tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member–10 TNFSF-10 were higher in cases with many deep periodontal pockets. The PerioGene North study includes detailed clinical periodontal data and uncovers a distinct serum protein profile in periodontitis. The findings of lower EGF and OLR-1 among the cases are highlighted, as this has not been presented before. The role of EGF and OLR-1 in periodontitis pathogenesis and as possible future biomarkers should be further explored.

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Resistance Patterns of Treponema denticola Isolated From Periodontal Disease: An In Vitro Study.

Background Periodontal disease poses a significant oral health challenge, involving inflammatory conditions impacting tooth-supporting structures. Treponema denticola, a "red complex" organism, plays a crucial role in periodontal pathogenesis, forming biofilms in subgingival environments and contributing to dysbiosis. Antimicrobial therapy is pivotal in managing periodontal disease, requiring a nuanced understanding of susceptibility patterns exhibited by key pathogens like T. denticola. Aims and objectives This study aims to investigate the antimicrobial susceptibility and resistance profiles of Treponema denticola, a prominent bacterium in periodontal disease, by examining its responses to various antimicrobial agents commonly used in periodontal therapy. Methodology Plaque samples were meticulously collected from individuals diagnosed with periodontal disease to ensure a diverse representation of the oral microbiome. All the samples were cultured, and red complex bacteria were isolated under anaerobic culture. Treponema denticola isolates were cultured from these samples under anaerobic conditions, and molecular techniques were employed for species identification. A comprehensive panel of antimicrobial agents was selected to assess the response of Treponema denticola. In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was conducted using the antimicrobial gradient method, employing a hybrid approach combining elements of disk-diffusion and dilution methods. Results Treponema denticola had exhibitedresistance to metronidazole, a commonly used antibiotic effective against anaerobic bacteria, emphasizing limitations in its applicability. However, the bacterium displayed sensitivity to tetracycline, imipenem, cefoperazone, chloramphenicol, clindamycin, and moxifloxacin, offering diverse therapeutic options. The antimicrobial gradient strip test provided detailed minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, contributing to a nuanced understanding of susceptibility and resistance patterns. Conclusion This study significantly advances our understanding of Treponema denticola's antimicrobial susceptibility and resistance profiles in the context of periodontal disease. The findings underscore the importance of tailored treatment strategies and contribute to broader efforts in antimicrobial stewardship, aligning with global initiatives to combat antibiotic resistance. This research lays the foundation for more effective and personalized approaches to periodontal care, emphasizing the intricate microbial dynamics associated with periodontal health and disease.

RNA Technology to Regenerate and Repair Alveolar Bone Defects

microRNA-200a (miR-200a) targets multiple signaling pathways that are involved in osteogenic differentiation and bone development. However, its therapeutic function in osteogenesis and bone regeneration remains unknown. In this study, we use in vitro and in vivo models to investigate the molecular function of miR-200a overexpression and miR-200a inhibition using a plasmid-based miR inhibitor system (PMIS) on osteogenic differentiation and bone regeneration. Inhibition of miR-200a using PMIS-miR-200a significantly increased osteogenic biomarkers of human embryonic palatal mesenchyme cells and promoted bone regeneration in rat tooth socket defects. In rat maxillary M1 molar extractions, the supporting tooth structures were removed with an implant drill to yield a 3-mm defect in the alveolar bone. A collagen sponge was inserted into the open alveolar defect and PMIS-miR-200a plasmid DNA was added to the sponge and the wound sutured to protect the sponge and close the defect. It was important to remove the existing tooth supporting structure, which can influence alveolar bone regeneration. The alveolar bone was regenerated in 4 wk. The collagen sponge acts to stabilize and deliver the PMIS-miR-200a DNA to cells entering the sponge in the bone defect. We show that mesenchymal stem cells expressing CD90 and Stro-1 enter the sponges, take up the DNA, and express PMIS-miR-200a. PMIS-miR-200a initiates a bone regeneration program in transformed cells in vivo. In vitro inhibition of miR-200a was found to upregulate Wnt and BMP signaling activity as well as Runx2, OCN, Lef-1, Msx2, and Dlx5 associated with osteogenesis. Liver and blood toxicity testing of PMIS-miR-200a–treated rats showed no increase in several biomarkers of liver disease. These results demonstrate the therapeutic function of PMIS-miR-200a for rapid bone regeneration. Furthermore, the studies were designed to demonstrate the ease of use of PMIS-miR-200a in solution and applied using a syringe in the clinic through a simple one-time application.

Exploring the role of epigenetics in periodontal disease progression: A narrative review

Periodontal disease remains a significant global health concern, characterized by chronic inflammation and destruction of the tooth-supporting structures. While microbial dysbiosis is a well-established factor in its pathogenesis, emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in the initiation and progression of periodontal disease. This narrative review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the intricate interplay between epigenetics and periodontal disease progression. Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, regulate gene expression patterns without altering the underlying DNA sequence. Dysregulation of these mechanisms can disrupt inflammatory and immune responses, exacerbating periodontal tissue damage. Various studies have highlighted specific epigenetic alterations associated with periodontal disease, such as aberrant DNA methylation patterns in promoter regions of key inflammatory genes and dysregulated microRNA expression profiles implicated in tissue remodeling processes. Moreover, environmental factors, such as smoking, diet, and stress, can modulate epigenetic signatures, further influencing periodontal disease susceptibility and severity. Understanding the epigenetic landscape of periodontal disease offers new avenues for therapeutic interventions and personalized treatment strategies. Targeting epigenetic regulators may provide innovative approaches to mitigate inflammation, promote tissue regeneration, and ultimately improve clinical outcomes in patients with periodontal disease. In conclusion, epigenetics plays a significant role in periodontal disease progression by regulating inflammatory and tissue remodeling pathways. Future research should continue to elucidate the complex epigenetic mechanisms underlying periodontal disease pathogenesis, paving the way for novel therapeutic interventions and personalized management strategies.

Evaluating the Effects of Diode Laser 940 nm Adjunctive to Conventional Scaling and Root Planning for Gingival Sulcus Disinfection in Chronic Periodontitis Patients

Background: Chronic periodontitis (CP) can lead to the loss of tooth-supporting structures. Scaling and root planning (SRP) is the standard treatment, but lasers may provide additional benefits. This study evaluated a 940 nm diode laser as an adjunct to SRP for CP treatment. Methods: In this split-mouth, randomized clinical trial, 32 CP patients with at least two teeth with a pocket depth of more than 4 mm were treated with regular treatment of SRP plus health education with or without the intervention group. Further, a 940 nm diode laser was applied for the decontamination of the gingival groove. Probing pocket depth, clinical attachment loss (CAL), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP), and plaque index (PI) were evaluated at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks after scaling. The data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 21), where descriptive methods and statistical tests such as the analysis of variance test were used with repeated measurements, and P&lt;0.05 was accepted as statistically significant. Results: All parameters improved significantly in both groups (P&lt;0.05), except for GI, which decreased significantly more with a laser versus SRP alone (P&lt;0.05). The results revealed no other statistically significant between-group differences. Conclusion: The adjunctive diode laser provided limited additional improvements compared to SRP alone over 8 weeks. The significant GI reduction indicated that a diode laser may provide some benefits for enhancing non-surgical periodontal treatment. Larger trials are needed to determine if this extra improvement is clinically meaningful in the long term. Clinical Relevance: Diode laser adjuncts to SRP demonstrated minimal short-term benefits over SRP alone in CP patients. The role of lasers in periodontal therapy requires further study. Trial Registration: IRCT20120215009014N234 (retrospectively registered).

Emulsion template fabricated heterogeneous bilayer gelatin-based scaffolds with sustained-delivery of lycium barbarum glycopeptide for periodontitis treatment

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease raising the risks of tooth-supporting structures destruction and even tooth loss. The way to reconstruct periodontal bone tissues in inflammatory microenvironment has been long in demand for periodontitis treatment. In this study, the lycium barbarum glycopeptide (LbGP) loaded gelatin-based scaffolds were fabricated for periodontitis treatment. Gelatin microspheres with suitable size were prepared by emulsification and gathered by oxidized sodium alginate to prepare heterogeneous bilayer gelatin-based scaffolds, and then they were loaded with LbGP. The prepared scaffolds possessed interconnected porous microstructures, good degradation properties, sufficient mechanical properties, sustained release behavior and well biocompatibility. In vitro experiments suggested that the LbGP loaded gelatin-based scaffolds could inhibit the expression of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α), promote the expression of anti-inflammatory factor (IL-10), and the expression of osteogenic markers (BMP2, Runx2, ALP, and OCN) in PDLSCs under the LPS-stimulated inflammatory microenvironment. Moreover, in rat periodontitis models, the LbGP gelatin-based scaffolds would reduce the alveolar bone resorption of rats, increase the collagen fiber content of periodontal membrane, alleviate local inflammation and improve the expression of osteogenesis-related factors. Therefore, the LbGP loaded gelatin-based scaffolds in this study will provide a potential therapeutic strategy for periodontitis treatment.

Insights into periodontitis: pathogenesis, host response, and antibiotic strategies

This paper provides a comprehensive exploration of periodontitis, a persistent and multifaceted inflammatory condition impacting tooth-supporting structures. The authors investigate the intricate relationship between causative factors, local microbiota, and the host immune response. The disarrayed regulation of cytokines, specifically IL-1, IL-6, and TNF, is highlighted for its pivotal role in triggering or hastening periodontitis onset. The study delves into the host response, emphasizing the delicate equilibrium needed between the immune system and microbiota. The categorization of periodontal pathogenic bacteria, with a focus on the highly pathogenic Phorphyromonas gingivalis and its virulence factors, is explored. Antibiotic efficacy in the context of rising resistance is discussed, encompassing commonly used antibiotics and proposing alternative strategies like plant extracts and bacteriocins. The study advocates for comprehensive therapeutic approaches that integrate antibiotics with alternative methods to effectively address the complex nature of periodontal diseases

Accuracy of Al Algorithms in Diagnosing Periodontal Disease Using Intraoral Images

ABSTRACT Background: Periodontal disease, characterized by inflammation and damage to tooth-supporting structures, poses a prevalent oral health concern. Early detection is crucial for effective management. Materials and Methods: This study comprised of 60 patients with varying degrees of periodontal disease. Intraoral images were captured using digital cameras, and AI algorithms were trained to analyze these images for signs of periodontal disease. Clinical diagnoses, conducted by experienced periodontal specialists, were used as the reference standard. Results: The AI algorithms achieved an overall accuracy of 87% in diagnosing periodontal disease. Sensitivity was 90%, indicating the AI’s ability to correctly identify 90% of true cases, while specificity stood at 84%, demonstrating its capability to accurately classify 84% of non-diseased cases. In comparison, clinical diagnosis yielded an overall accuracy of 86%. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between AI-based diagnosis and clinical examination (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: This study underscores the promising potential of AI algorithms in diagnosing periodontal disease through intraoral image analysis.

Er:YAG laser suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines expression and inflammasome in human periodontal ligament fibroblasts with Porphyromonas gingivalis-lipopolysaccharide stimulation

Background/purposePeriodontitis is an inflammatory condition of the tooth-supporting structures triggered by the host's immune response towards the bacterial deposits around the teeth. It is well acknowledged that pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, MCP-1 as well as the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, are the key modulators in the activation of this response. Erbium-doped yttrium-aluminium-garnet (Er:YAG) laser, a solid-state crystal laser have been commonly used in the treatment of periodontal diseases. However, little is understood about the molecular mechanism of the Er:YAG laser, especially in targeting the host immune response brought on by periodontal pathogens. Hence, the current study focused on the protective effects of Er:YAG laser on periodontitis in-vitro in terms of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and NLRP3 inflammasome expressions. Materials and methodsHuman periodontal ligament fibroblast (PDLFs) were first stimulated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from P. gingivalis (Pg-LPS) to simulate periodontitis. Cells were then irradiated with Er:YAG laser of ascending energy densities (3.6–6.3 J/cm2), followed by cell proliferation and wound healing assay. Next, the effects of Er:YAG laser on the expressions of IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, NLRP3, and cleaved GSDMD were examined. ResultsPg-LPS was found to reduce cell's proliferation rate and wound healing ability in PDLFs and these were rescued by Er:YAG laser irradiation. In addition, LPS stimuli resulted in a marked upregulation in the secretion of IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1 as well as the mRNA and protein expression of NLRP3 and cleaved-GSDMD protein whereas Er:YAG laser suppressed the elicited phenomena. ConclusionTo our knowledge, this is the first study to look into the laser's implication on the NLRP3 inflammasome in periodontitis models. Our study reveals a crucial role of Er:YAG laser in ameliorating periodontitis in-vitro through the modulation of IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1 and the NLRP3 inflammasome and highlights that the control of the NLRP3 inflammasome may become a potential approach for periodontitis.

Evaluation of Sterify Gel as an Adjunctive Treatment to Scaling and Root Planing in Promoting Healing of Periodontal Pockets: A Split-Mouth Randomized Controlled Trial.

Periodontal disease is a common infectious disease that leads to the destruction of tooth-supporting structures. Current treatments, such as scaling and root planing (SRP), have limitations in deep and complex pockets, and antibiotic use carries the risk of resistance. Sterify Gel, a medical device composed of polyvinyl polymers, hydroxytyrosol, nisin, and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, offers a new approach to periodontal care. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Sterify Gel as an adjunctive treatment to SRP in promoting the healing of periodontal pockets. The study includes 34 patients with moderate to advanced chronic periodontal disease. Randomization assigned one site for SRP alone (control) and the other site for SRP with Sterify Gel (treatment). Periodontal parameters were evaluated at baseline, 1, 2, and 3 months after treatment bacterial contamination was assessed through quantitative PCR at baseline and 3 months after treatment. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA and Wilcoxon test. Treatment with Sterify Gel and SRP demonstrated significant improvements in pocket depth, gingival recession, and clinical attachment level compared with SRP alone. Bleeding and plaque indexes, pain perception, tooth mobility, and furcations showed no significant differences between the two groups. The treatment group showed a reduction in bacterial contamination at 3 months. Sterify Gel in combination with SRP shows the potential for improving periodontal health by promoting healing and reducing periodontal pockets. It may offer benefits in preventing bacterial recolonization and reducing reliance on antibiotics.

Unmasking the Silent Threat: Periodontal Health's Impact on COPD Severity and Hospitalization.

This study investigated the relationship between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and periodontitis, focusing on how periodontal health impacts COPD airflow limitation, exacerbations, and hospitalization. Periodontitis, a multifactorial inflammatory disease, is characterized by destruction of tooth-supporting structures, while COPD is a global pulmonary disorder with high mortality. A total of 199 COPD patients aged over 40 years underwent lung function tests (spirometry), 6 min walk test, and St George's Respiratory Questionnaire-COPD (SGRQ-C) to assess lung health. Periodontal indices such as probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and plaque index (PI) were assessed. We found a significant negative correlation between periodontal disease severity and lung function (lower FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC ratio) after adjusting for smoking. Likewise, periodontal parameters (PPD, PI, and CAL) exhibited negative correlations with lung function. These periodontal indices were independently associated with airflow limitation severity, exacerbations frequency, and prior-year hospitalization. Linear regression indicated that each unit increase in PPD, PI, and CAL corresponded to estimated increases in GOLD airflow limitation grading (0.288, 0.718, and 0.193, respectively) and number of exacerbations (0.115, 0.041, and 0.109, respectively). In logistic regression, PPD, PI, and CAL adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were estimated to increase by 1.29 (95%CI: 1.03-1.62), 3.04 (95%CI: 1.28-7.2), and 1.26 (95%CI: 1.06-1.49), respectively, for hospitalization in previous year. Periodontitis is associated with COPD airflow limitation, exacerbation, and hospitalization, with PI being the most clinically relevant periodontal factor. Dentists and physicians should monitor and increase awareness among COPD patients to maintain oral hygiene for prevention of periodontal diseases and mitigate its effect on COPD progression.

The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Pattern and Presentation of Traumatic Dental Injuries in Children in a Tertiary Health Institution.

COVID-19 pandemic brought adaptive changes in lifestyle with possible impact on the incidence of traumatic dental injuries. This study compared the presentation and pattern of traumatic dental injuries in children during the pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 pandemic periods. This was a retrospective study done using clinical records of children aged 16 years and below who presented at the paediatric dental clinic of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. Information such as demographics, aetiology, type of injuries, and dentition type were elicited from the 1284 clinical records from March 2019 to February 2021. Data were analysed and the level of significance was set at P ≤ 0.05. One hundred (7.8%) patients presented with traumatic dental injuries (TDIs; 71 [8.5%] and 29 [6.5%] pre-pandemic [March 2019 to February 2020] and pandemic periods [March 2020 to February 2021], respectively) and their mean age was 7.0 (±4.2) years. The male-to-female ratio before and during the pandemic periods was 1.54:1 and 1.42:1, respectively. The commonest aetiology and type of TDI were falls 82 (82%) and injuries to tooth-supporting structures 45 (45%), respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in sex (P = 0.86), aetiology (P = 0.31), type of TDI (P = 0.16), and dentition affected (P = 0.97) between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods but the difference in the age groups was significant (P = 0.02). The incidence of TDIs was higher in the pre-pandemic period. The younger age group had more dental injuries than the older ones at both periods. This may be due to difficulty in enforcing restrictions on young children even during COVID-19 restrictions.

IL-17 and IL-10 as potential biomarkers for diagnosing periodontitis patients: A Review

Background:Evaluation methods for periodontal disorders are continually being refined to yield more precise, reliable, and time-efficient findings. Radiographic reports and clinical assessments of periodontal tissues, which served as the basis for earlier trends, were used to identify disorders affecting the tooth-supporting structures. As traditional approaches have become more apparent gradually over time, new methods emerged, some of which have been empirically validated. One example is the detection and measurement of biomarkers in bodily fluids. One of the most pressing issues in periodontal field nowadays is the search for an idealized periodontal diagnostic/prognostic biomarker that can both identify diseased areas and track the therapeutic success of periodontal treatment. Both IL-17 and IL-10 have shown connection to periodontitis that could encourage using them as diagnostic tools.&#x0D; Objective: To provide a review of the role and association of the above biomarkers to periodontitis.&#x0D; Patients and Methods: A systematic research of Google scholar, Scopus, PubMed Central, research gate was conducted using keywords such as diagnosis, periodontitis, IL-17, IL-10, biomarkers, Saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF).&#x0D; Results: out of 58 records which resulted from the initial search only 14 were included which used roles, associations, and diagnosis as their outcomes.&#x0D; Conclusion: Evidence from the selected records suggests that the above stated biomarkers might be able to discriminate periodontitis from health, monitoring disease progression and post treatment outcome, but actual clinical application needs much further research.