Interest in orthodontic tooth alignment in adult patients affected by periodontitis: A questionnaire‐based cross‐sectional pilot study

Knowledge, attitudes, and interest in orthodontic treatment: a cross-sectional study in adults with stage III-IV periodontitis and secondary malocclusions

BACKGROUND

An increasing number of patients with advanced stages of periodontitis are seeking for treatment options. The study aimed to determine interest in orthodontic treatment (OT) and its association with oral health status and knowledge about the disease in adult subjects with stage III-IV periodontitis.

METHODS

96 subjects ≥ 30 years, with stage III-IV periodontitis agreed to fill in a questionnaire and undergo a comprehensive periodontal-orthodontic examination. The questionnaire included 44 questions: demographic, dental, health related habits, self-perceived overall and oral health, knowledge of periodontitis, and attitude toward OT. The statistical analysis was performed using a paired-sample T-test, Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) and binary logistic regression analysis (LRA).

RESULTS

Stage IV periodontitis was observed in 32.3% of subjects and Class II malocclusion was most prevalent (53.1%). More than half of subjects were interested in OT. Oral health, knowledge about periodontitis and age were significant predictors for interest in OT.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge spread about OT possibilities in advanced stages of periodontitis is very important both for the dental community and older subjects to save natural dentition.

Synergy of Regenerative Periodontal Surgery and Orthodontics Improves Quality of Life of Patients with Stage IV Periodontitis: 24-Month Outcomes of a Multicenter RCT

In stage IV periodontitis patients with pathologic tooth migration (PTM), interdisciplinary treatment includes regenerative periodontal surgery (RPS) with an application of biomaterials and orthodontic therapy (OT) to restore function, esthetics and thereby quality of life (QoL). In a 24-month randomized trial we explored the synergy between regenerative medicine and biomechanical force application. The following methods were used: Forty-three patients had been randomized to a combined treatment comprising RPS and subsequent OT starting either 4 weeks (early OT) or 6 months (late OT) post-operatively. Clinical periodontal parameters and oral health-related QoL (GOHAI) were recorded up to 24 months. We obtained the following results: Mean clinical attachment gain (∆CAL ± SD) was significantly higher with early OT (5.96 ± 2.1 mm) versus late OT (4.65 ± 1.76 mm) (p = 0.034). Pocket closure (PPD ≤ 4 mm) was obtained in 91% of defects with early OT compared to 90% with late OT. GOHAI-scores decreased significantly from 26.1 ± 7.5 to 9.6 ± 4.7 (early OT) and 25.1 ± 7.1 to 12.7 ± 5.6 (late OT). Inconclusion, teeth severely compromised by intrabony defects and PTM can be treated successfully by RPS followed by early OT with the advantage of an overall reduced treatment time. As a result of the combined periodontal-orthodontic therapy, the oral health-related QoL of patients was significantly improved. Early stimulation of wound healing with orthodontic forces had a favorable impact on the outcomes of regenerative periodontal surgery.

Complications and treatment errors involving periodontal tissues related to orthodontic therapy

In this review, typical clinical complications involving periodontal tissues are illustrated that can be encountered in conjunction with orthodontic therapy (OT). Special considerations are given for various clinical scenarios, such as the patient presenting in periodontal health, with periodontitis, or with mucogingival conditions. While some of the complications are seen as common side effects of OT, other, more severe, problems that could have been avoided may be viewed as treatment errors. Recommendations are made on how to prevent these complications, based on the currently available evidence, on clinical practice guidelines, and on expert opinion. In conclusion, while there are several areas in which OT can have unwanted adverse effects on periodontal/mucogingival conditions, there is also great potential for synergies, offering opportunities for close cooperation between the two specialties (periodontics and orthodontics) for the benefit of patients affected by tooth malpositioning and/or periodontal or mucogingival problems.

Strontium Ranelate Inhibits Osteoclastogenesis through NF-κB-Pathway-Dependent Autophagy

Strontium ranelate (SR) is a pharmaceutical agent used for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and fragility fracture. However, little attention has been paid to the effect of SR on alveolar bone remodeling during orthodontic tooth movement and its underlying mechanism. Here, we investigated the influence of SR on orthodontic tooth movement and tooth resorption in Sprague–Dawley rats and the relationship between the nuclear factor–kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, autophagy, and osteoclastogenesis after the administration of SR in vitro and in vivo. In this study, it was found that SR reduced the expression of autophagy-related proteins at the pressure side of the first molars during orthodontic tooth movement. Similarly, the expression of these autophagy-related proteins and the size and number of autophagosomes were downregulated by SR in vitro. The results also showed that SR reduced the number of osteoclasts and suppressed orthodontic tooth movement and root resorption in rats, which could be partially restored using rapamycin, an autophagy inducer. Autophagy was attenuated after pre-osteoclasts were treated with Bay 11-7082, an NF-κB pathway inhibitor, while SR reduced the expression of the proteins central to the NF-κB pathway. Collectively, this study revealed that SR might suppress osteoclastogenesis through NF-κB-pathway-dependent autophagy, resulting in the inhibition of orthodontic tooth movement and root resorption in rats, which might offer a new insight into the treatment of malocclusion and bone metabolic diseases.

Periodontal and Orthodontic Synergy in the Management of Stage IV Periodontitis: Challenges, Indications and Limits

This retrospective study described the clinical and radiographic long-term outcomes of combined periodontal and orthodontic treatment (OT) with fixed appliances in patients with Stage IV periodontitis and pathologic tooth migration (PTM) in the anterior sextants. OT was performed in either one or both arches, using tooth-supported or skeletal anchorage, following completion of active periodontal treatment and accurate planning of tooth movement biomechanics. Twenty-nine patients were identified and retrospectively examined when presenting for a supportive periodontal care (SPC) appointment. The mean SPC duration was 8.9 years (range 5 to 12 years). All anterior-migrated teeth showed statistically significant periodontal improvement compared to baseline values and stable radiographic bone levels at the final follow-up. Residual probing depths were 2.9 ± 0.5 mm at the end of active periodontal treatment, and they remained stable at the completion of OT (2.9 ± 0.6 mm) and at the last follow-up visit (2.8 ± 0.5 mm). These findings suggest that OT is a safe and effective treatment in improving the long-term prognosis of teeth with PTM in Stage IV periodontitis provided that periodontal health has been re-established and maintained with individualized SPC sessions.

Introduction to artificial intelligence and machine learning into orthodontics: A review

Over the past few years, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have revolutionized different healthcare branches, including dentistry. AI in a wider aspect means computers that mimic or behave like human intelligence whereas ML forms a part of AI and enables machines to increase their capabilities by the process of self-adapting algorithms. AI models’ basic principles or fundamentals are purely based on artificial neural networks or convolutional neural networks. This review focuses on giving a comprehensive and detailed explanation about AI and ML technology and their wide range of applications in various sections of orthodontic practice.

The effect of timing of orthodontic therapy on the outcomes of regenerative periodontal surgery in patients with stage IV periodontitis: A multicenter randomized trial

AIM

To compare the outcomes after early (4 weeks post surgery) or late (6 months post surgery) orthodontic therapy (OT) following regenerative surgery of intra-bony defects (IDs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a multi-center, parallel-group, randomized clinical trial, 43 patients with stage IV periodontitis were randomized to receive either early (n = 23) or late OT (n = 20) following regenerative surgery of IDs. Primary outcome was change in clinical attachment level (CAL) in one target ID at 12 months after surgery. Secondary outcomes were changes of probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), and frequency of pocket closure.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences between groups could be observed for CAL gain (5.4 mm [±2.1 mm] for early; 4.5 mm [±1.7 mm] for late OT). PPD was reduced by 4.2 mm (±1.9 mm) in the early group and by 3.9 mm (±1.5 mm) in the late group (p > .05). Pocket closure (PPD ≤ 4 mm) was obtained in 91% of defects in early compared to 85% in late OT.

CONCLUSION

In the inter-disciplinary treatment of periodontitis stage IV, OT can be initiated already 4 weeks after regenerative surgery of IDs with favourable results, thus reducing the overall treatment time.

The adult orthodontic patient over 40 years of age: association between periodontal bone loss, incisor irregularity, and increased orthodontic treatment need

Objectives

Adult orthodontic treatment, especially in patients over 40 years, is steadily increasing. One causal factor for the treatment need in this age group is periodontal breakdown. The aim of this study was to detect correlations between periodontal problems and orthodontic parameters in interdisciplinary patients.

Methods

This observational, cross-sectional study included 118 patients over 40 years (51 men/67 women; mean age, 58.03 years) classified into three groups according to periodontal breakdown (group I, controls; group II, moderate periodontitis; group III, severe periodontitis). Clinical periodontal and orthodontic parameters as well as the index of orthodontic treatment need (IOTN) were assessed and compared between the groups.

Results

A gradual deterioration of all periodontal and orthodontic parameters according to periodontal bone loss (lowest values in group I; highest values in group III) was observed. Especially groups I and III differed significantly regarding the overjet (p < 0.001) and the little indices of the maxilla (p < 0.001) and mandible (p < 0.010). The IOTN was highest in group III: 90% of the patients with severe periodontitis were classified to have moderate to very great treatment need.

Conclusions

The higher the degree of periodontal breakdown was, the more severe were overjet, overbite, irregularity of the anterior teeth, and the orthodontic treatment need.

Clinical relevance

Adult patients over 40 years represent a challenge for an orthodontic/periodontal treatment approach with high incidence of pathologic tooth migration, orthodontic treatment need, and periodontal breakdown. Therefore, this special patient collective requires a focus in clinical orthodontics and research.

Regenerative periodontal surgery and orthodontic tooth movement in stage IV periodontitis: A retrospective practice-based cohort study

AIM

Evaluation of the effectiveness of regenerative treatment of intra-bony defects in combination with consecutive orthodontic tooth movements in stage IV periodontitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 526 intra-bony defects in 48 patients were analysed after regenerative therapy using collagen-deproteinized bovine bone mineral with or without collagen membrane or enamel matrix derivative followed by orthodontic tooth movement initiated 3 months after surgery. Changes in radiographic bone levels (BL) and probing pocket depths (PPD) were evaluated after 1 year and up to 4 years.

RESULTS

Tooth loss amounted to 0.57%. Mean BL gain was 4.67 mm (±2.5 mm) after 1 year and 4.85 mm (±2.55 mm) after up to 4 years. Mean PPD was significantly reduced from 6.00 mm (±2.09 mm) at baseline to 3.45 mm (±1.2 mm) after 1 year, and to 3.12 mm (±1.36 mm) after 2-4 years. Pocket closure (PPD ≤4 mm) was accomplished in 87% of all defects. Adjunctive antibiotic therapy did not show any statistically significant impact on treatment outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limits of this retrospective study design, the findings suggest that the combination of regenerative treatment and consecutive orthodontic tooth movements resulted in favourable results up to 4 years.

The effect of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy on shear bond strength of orthodontic bracket: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) with methylene blue (MB) and indocyanine green (ICG) on bond strength of orthodontic brackets to enamel.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 45 non-carious and sound human premolar teeth were used in this study. All teeth were examined under a stereomicroscope at ×10 magnification. The samples were divided to 3 groups including no treatment (control group), aPDT with MB and 660 nm diode laser and aPDT with ICG and 808 nm diode laser. After aPDT procedure, orthodontic brackets were bonded to enamel surfaces. Then, the samples were thermocycled for 5000 cycles between 5° and 55° C in water bath. The brackets were then debonded using a universal testing machine. The adhesive remnant index (ARI) score and SEM microscope evaluation were assessed. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Post-hoc test were used to compare the SBS values among groups.

RESULTS

The highest SBS mean value was presented in group 1 (control) (31.98 ± 6.36). Whereas, the lowest SBS mean value was observed in group 3 (aPDT with ICG) (24.11 ± 5.78). There were significant differences in SBS values between control and aPDT groups (P < 0.05). Some superficial porosity and irregularity was presented following aPDT on surface of enamel when examined by scanning electron microscope. The mode of failure was mostly score 0 and score 1 in all groups.

CONCLUSION

MB and ICG mediated antimicrobial photodynamic therapy both reduced the bond strength of orthodontic brackets compared to control group.

A Case of Mandibular Prognathism with Generalized Aggressive Periodontitis and Crowding

Aggressive periodontitis during adolescence has a poor prognosis due to rapid alveolar bone resorption. Few studies have investigated long-term follow-up after surgical orthodontic treatment performed in conjunction with that for invasive periodontitis. Here, we report a case of mandibular prognathism accompanied by generalized aggressive periodontitis and crowding. A 31-year-old woman was referred to our department for treatment of masticatory dysfunction due to reverse overjet. The patient exhibited a class III molar relationship, protrusion of the ANB of －6.0°, and severe maxillary crowding. Initial periodontal examination revealed deep periodontal pockets and extensive inflammation. Mandibular prognathism accompanied by generalized aggressive periodontitis and crowding was diagnosed. Therefore, it was necessary to adopt an interdisciplinary approach involving surgical, orthodontic, and periodontal treatment. Prior to commencement of orthodontic treatment, plaque control, scaling, and root planing of all teeth were performed by a periodontist to suppress inflammation and reduce probing depth. During pre-surgical orthodontic treatment, the maxillary first premolars were extracted to reduce crowding of the maxillary incisors. To correct the mandibular prognathism, the mandible was repositioned by sagittal split ramus osteotomy. Proper occlusion of the incisors and maximum intercuspation were achieved by post-surgical orthodontic treatment. After completion of active orthodontic treatment, acceleration of inflammation was observed together with aggravated resorption of the alveolar bone surrounding the molars. However, reduction of probing depth and inflammation were observed after scaling and root planing. The surgical-orthodontic treatment time was 1 year and 11 months, which was followed by a 2-year retention period. There was no tooth loss due to periodontitis, and an overall satisfactory outcome was achieved.

Clinical factors affecting the longevity of fixed retainers and the influence of fixed retainers on periodontal health in periodontitis patients: a retrospective study

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical factors affecting the longevity of fixed retainers and the influence of fixed retainers on periodontal health in periodontitis patients.

METHODS

In total, 52 patients with at least 2 years of follow-up after periodontal and orthodontic treatment were included in this study. After scaling and root planing, orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances or clear aligners was performed. Fixed retainers with twist-flex stainless steel wires were bonded to the palatal or lingual sides of anterior teeth. Changes in clinical parameters, including the plaque index, gingival index, calculus index (CI), probing pocket depth, and radiographic bone levels, were evaluated before bonding of fixed retainers and at a 12-month follow-up. Cumulative survival rates (CSRs) for retainer failure were evaluated according to sex, site, CI, stage of periodontitis, and the severity of the irregularity with the log-rank test and hazard ratios (HRs).

RESULTS

Twelve months after bonding of fixed retainers, improvements were observed in all clinical parameters except CI and radiographic bone gain. The overall CSR of the retainers with a CI <1 at the 12-month follow-up after bonding of fixed retainers was significantly higher than that of the retainers with a CI ≥1 at the 12-month follow-up (log-rank test; P<0.001). Patients with stage III (grade B or C) periodontitis had a higher multivariate HR for retainer failure (5.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.22-23.91; P=0.026) than patients with stage I (grade A or B) periodontitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Although fixed retainers were bonded in periodontitis patients, periodontal health was well maintained if supportive periodontal treatment with repeated oral hygiene education was provided. Nonetheless, fixed retainer failure occurred more frequently in patients who had stage III (grade B or C) periodontitis or a CI ≥1 at 12-month follow-up after bonding of fixed retainers.

Artificial intelligence in orthodontics

This article aims to discuss how AI with its powerful pattern finding and prediction algorithms are helping orthodontics. Much remains to be done to help patients and clinicians make better treatment decisions. AI is an excellent tool to help orthodontists to choose the best way to move teeth with aligners to preset positions. On the other hand, AI today completely ignores the existence of oral diseases, does not fully integrate facial analysis in its algorithms, and is unable to consider the impact of functional problems in treatments. AI do increase sensitivity and specificity in imaging diagnosis in several conditions, from syndrome diagnosis to caries detection. AI with its set of tools for problem-solving is starting to assist orthodontists with extra powerful applied resources to provide better standards of care.

Is periodontal phenotype modification therapy beneficial for patients receiving orthodontic treatment? An American Academy of Periodontology best evidence review

BACKGROUND

Orthodontic treatment can greatly impact the periodontium, especially in dentitions with a thin periodontal phenotype. Orthodontic tooth movement can result into iatrogenic sequelae to these vulnerable anatomic conditions, such as development and exacerbation of bony dehiscence or fenestration defects, which can manifest loss of periodontal support and gingival recession (GR). This systematic review aimed to investigate whether periodontal phenotype modification therapy (PhMT) involving hard tissue augmentation (PhMT-b) or soft tissue augmentation (PhMT-s) has clinical benefits for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed in two major databases for journals published in English language from January 1975 to January 2019 and a hand search of printed journals was also performed to identify human clinical trials reporting clinical and radiographic outcomes of patients receiving orthodontic treatment with or without hard and soft tissue augmentation procedures. Data were extracted and organized into tables for qualitative assessment.

RESULTS

Eight studies were identified evaluating the outcomes of PhMT in patients undergoing orthodontic therapy. Six studies evaluated patients receiving PhMT-b via corticotomy-assisted orthodontic therapy (CAOT) and simultaneous bone augmentation while the other two received PhMT-s before tooth movement. No studies investigated PhMT-b alone without CAOT and most studies focused on the mandibular anterior decompensation movements. There was high heterogeneity in the study design and inconsistency of the reported outcomes; therefore, a meta-analysis was not performed. Evidence at this moment supports CAOT with hard tissue augmentation accelerated tooth movement. However, only two studies provided direct comparison to support that CAOT with PhMT-b reduced the overall treatment time compared with conventional orthodontic treatment. No periodontal complications or evidence of severe root resorption were reported for both groups. Four studies provided radiographic assessment of the PhMT-b and demonstrated increased radiographic density or thicker facial bone after the treatment. Two studies reported an expanded tooth movement. One study reported an increase in keratinized tissue width post-CAOT plus PhMT-b, while another study with a 10-year follow-up showed a lower degree of relapse using the mandibular irregularity index when compared with conventional tooth movement alone. Two studies examined the effect of PhMT-s before orthodontic treatment. Unfortunately, no conclusions can be drawn because of the limited number of studies with contradicting outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limited studies included in this systematic review, PhMT-b via particulate bone grafting together with CAOT may provide clinical benefits such as modifying periodontal phenotype, maintaining or enhancing facial bone thickness, accelerating tooth movement, expanding the scope of safe tooth movement for patients undergoing orthodontic tooth movement. The benefits of PhMT-s alone for orthodontic treatment remain undetermined due to limited studies available. However, PhMT-b appears promising and with many potential benefits for patients undergoing orthodontic tooth movement. There is a need for a higher quality of randomized controlled trials or case control studies with longer follow-up to investigate the effects of different grafting materials and surgical sites other than mandibular anterior region.