Cephalometric comparison of mandibular growth in Brazilian children with Class II malocclusion and normal occlusion during the growth stages determined by the cervical vertebrae maturation

OBJECTIVE

This study compared mandibular growth in children, aged 7 to 12 years, with Class II malocclusion and normal occlusion, between the following stages of cervical vertebrae maturation: initiation (I), acceleration (A), transition (T).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 148 lateral cephalograms (78 males, 70 females) of Class II malocclusion patients, and 60 lateral cephalograms (30 males, 30 females) of normal occlusion patients were included. The following linear cephalometric measurements were performed: Co-Gn (effective mandibular length), Co-Go (ramus height), and Go-Gn (length of mandibular body). Mean values of increments between stages (I-A, A-T, I-T) were obtained for each group and gender. Results were compared using the Student t-test, and a significance level of 0.05% was adopted.

RESULTS

Females group: A-T interval presented a greater increment in Co-Go in the Class II group, which was not significant for the I-T interval, with numerically smaller increments in Co-Gn and Go-Gn, without statistical significance. Males group: intervals I-A, A-T and I-T showed numerically smaller growth increments in the Class II group, with statistical significance for Co-Gn in I-A (p=0.001) and I-T (p=0.003). Comparing genders of the Class II group, Co-Go was higher in males (p=0.002) and I-T interval (p=0.031). In the Normal Occlusion group, the male gender had the greatest Co-Gn (p=0.038) for the I-A interval. In A-T and I-T, Co-Go in males was higher, with statistical significance (p=0.000 and p=0.002, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Growth phenomenon affects the mandibular dimensions regardless of the character of the malocclusion, with a tendency to be smaller in the presence of Class II malocclusion.

Dental arch changes comparison between Expander with Differential Opening, Hyrax-type and Haas-type expanders: A prospective clinical study

OBJECTIVE

Compare changes in arch form after RME achieved by Expander with Differential Opening (EDO), Hyrax-type and Haas-type expanders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dental models were obtained from 61 patients aged 7-11 years before expansion (T1) and 6 months after the active phase when the appliances were removed (T2). The groups were formed according to the expander used: EDO (n = 18, mean age: 9.46 ± 0.82 years), Hyrax-type (n = 22, mean age: 9.62 ± 1.57 years) and Haas-type (n = 21, mean age: 9.29 ± 1.05 years). The expander`s activation protocol consisted of 7 mm, except for EDO`s anterior screw, which was 9 mm. The measurements of upper and lower intercanine distance, inter-first permanent molar, arch perimeter and length, maxillary canine and first-permanent molar inclination, and palatal depth were performed using the OrthoAnalyzer 3D software. Intergroup comparisons of T1 and between changes (T2-T1) were performed using ANOVA followed by Tukey.

RESULTS

In the upper intercanine distance EDO provided a greater increase than Haas-type. In the distance between upper fist permanent molars EDO showed higher values than Haas-type and Hyrax-type. In the lower intercanine distance and maxillary arch length, Haas-type promoted higher increase than EDO.

CONCLUSIONS

The EDO promoted greater transverse changes in anterior region than Haas-type and greater transverse changes in posterior region of the maxilla than both conventional expanders. The appliance used for RME influences dental arch changes after treatment; therefore, it is recommended to individualize the choice of expander depending on the clinical necessity of each case.

Immediate skeletal effects of rapid maxillary expansion at midpalatal suture opening with Differential, Hyrax and Haas expanders

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to test the null hypothesis that there is no difference at the midpalatal suture opening after rapid maxillary expansion (RME) using Expander with Differential Opening (EDO), Hyrax-type and Haas-type expanders.

METHODS

Occlusal radiographs of 52 patients (19 males and 33 females; average age= 9.46?1.20 years) treated with RME were divided into three groups, according to the expander used: EDO (n=17), Hyrax-type (n=21) and Haas-type (n=14). The evaluated variables were: A) Distance between the maxillary central incisors at the incisal edge; B) Distance between the alveolar ridges at the midpalatal suture; C) Suture opening at 10-mm distance from the crest to posterior, at the midpalatal suture; D) Suture opening at 20-mm distance from the crest to posterior, at the midpalatal suture; and E) Suture opening at 30-mm distance from the crest to posterior, at the midpalatal suture. To assess the normality of variables, the Shapiro-Wilk test was performed. For intergroup comparison, ANOVA with a significance level of 5% was used.

RESULTS

At the region A, Hyrax-type (4.66 mm) and EDO (4.87 mm) groups presented larger openings than the Haas-type group (3.43 mm). In regions B and C, EDO showed a statistically significant greater opening than the Haas-type group. In region D, a smaller opening of the midpalatal suture was observed in the Haas-type group, compared to the Hyrax-type and EDO groups.

CONCLUSIONS

EDO and Hyrax-type produced greater immediate skeletal effects, compared with Haas-type, but these differences were about 1 mm and might not be clinically significant.

Influence of anxiety and catastrophizing on pain perception in orthodontic treatment and its association with inflammatory cytokines

Pain is common in orthodontic treatment, is subject to individual variation, and is associated with anxiety and stress, which can potentially become catastrophizing. The aim of the present study was to determine the variability of pain response after the insertion of orthodontic separators and to assess the association of pain levels with dental anxiety, catastrophizing, tooth sensitivity, and genetic expression of cytokines. To this end, 70 patients of both genders were divided into two equal groups according to the elastomeric separator used: G1 (Dentaurum) and G2 (Orthometric). Two separators were inserted in the mesial and distal sides of the lower right first molar. Participants were instructed to rate the level of pain at T0 (before insertion), T1 (just after insertion), and T2 (24 hours after insertion) on a visual analog scale. The gingival crevicular fluid was collected at T0 and T2. The levels of anxiety, catastrophizing, tooth sensitivity, and cytokine expression were also assessed. Statistical analysis was performed with the Fisher-Freeman-Halton, chi-squared, Spearman's correlation, and dependent and independent t tests (α=5%). Pain intensity was higher at T2 than at T1, in both groups (P<.05). An association was established (P<.05) between pain intensity at T1 and catastrophizing, and at T2 with anxiety and catastrophizing. Within-group differences in cytokine expression were found between T0 and T2. There was no correlation between cytokine expression and pain levels, anxiety, catastrophizing, and sensitivity at T2. Tooth separation produced variable pain levels, which were influenced by anxiety and catastrophizing, however, pain level was not correlated with increased cytokine expression.

USE OF MOUTHWASH AND DENTIFRICE CONTAINING AN ANTIMICROBIAL PHTHALOCYANINE DERIVATIVE FOR THE REDUCTION OF CLINICAL SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19: A RANDOMIZED TRIPLE-BLIND CLINICAL TRIAL

PURPOSE

This clinical trial aimed to evaluate the use of mouthwash and dentifrice containing an antimicrobial phthalocyanine derivative (APD) to reduce the clinical symptoms in patients with COVID-19.

METHODS

This randomized, triple-blind clinical trial enrolled 134 patients aged 18 years or older who underwent COVID-19 testing through the use of nasopharyngeal swab RT-qPCR in a reference center for the diagnosis of COVID-19, had no clinical contraindications to mouthwash and gargle, and had access to cell phones with communication applications. According to the use of a mouthwash and dentifrice containing antimicrobial phthalocyanine derivatives (APD), patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to the APD or non-APD (control) group. All participants were instructed to floss twice a day, brush teeth for 2 minutes 3 times a day, and gargle/rinse (5 mL) for 1 min/3 times a day for 7 days. An online questionnaire was sent to collect data on the clinical symptoms of COVID-19 3 times: T0 (baseline before using the oral hygiene products), T3 (3 days after), and T7 (7 days after). The investigators, patients, and outcome assessors were blinded to group assignment. The Mann-Whitney, Chi-Square, Fisher's exact, and Cochran's tests were used according to the nature of the variables studied, with the level of significance set at P < .05.

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference was found in the prevalence of symptoms between groups at baseline. A statistically significant reduction in clinical symptoms was found in the control group (fatigue, shortness of breath, hoarse voice, sore throat, nasal congestion, and chest pain) and APD group (cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, hyposmia/anosmia, dysgeusia, hoarse voice, sore throat, nasal congestion, chest pain, diarrhea, and irritability/confusion) during the follow-up period. There were statistically significant differences, with a higher prevalence of symptoms in the control group at T3 and T7. Dysgeusia, sore throat, and irritability/confusion were less prevalent in the APD group at T3, and shortness of breath, hyposmia/anosmia, dysgeusia, hoarse voice, sore throat, diarrhea, and irritability/confusion were more prevalent in the control group at T7.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this methodology, the results demonstrated that the regular use of mouthwash and dentifrice-containing APD had a positive impact on the clinical symptoms, as reported by patients with COVID-19.

Evaluating changes in the color and luminosity of dental enamel after orthodontic treatment: A clinical study

The aims of this clinical study were to evaluate the Color change - ΔE (based on spectrophotometry and visual analysis) and luminosity - L* (based on spectrophotometry) of dental enamel surface (after orthodontic treatment) around the area where orthodontic brackets were fixed, based on different cementing materials such as a resin (R group) and resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC group). The split-mouth study initially comprised 14 patients. Orthodontic brackets were fixed to the upper central incisors with resin or RMGIC. The color of the buccal surface of each tooth was measured through spectrophotometry and visual examination before the bracket-fixation process. Four individuals were excluded during the follow-up; thus 10 patients were evaluated (n=10). Brackets were removed after 12 months of orthodontic treatment, tooth color measurement and visual examination were performed again, and Adhesive Remaining Index (ARI) was also measured. ΔE and L* results were subjected to Student's t-test and by repeated-measures analysis of variance, respectively (α=0.05). ARI data were analyzed in percentages. There was statistically significant difference in ΔE between groups; the R group showed statistically higher values of L* after orthodontic treatment. ARI of 2 and 3 prevailed in the RMGIC group, whereas the R group presented 0 and 1. After orthodontic treatment, the RMGIC group presented smaller changes in ΔE, and the increase in the white scale was observed on the enamel surface around the area where brackets were fixed in the R group. The visual analysis did not show color change on the evaluated teeth.

Effects of the Forsus fatigue-resistant device and mandibular anterior repositioning appliance in Class II malocclusion treatment

INTRODUCTION

Fixed functional appliances have been used to treat Class II malocclusion by a huge number of professionals. This retrospective study aimed to analyze the effects of the Forsus fatigue-resistant device and compare the findings with a well-matched group treated with the mandibular anterior repositioning appliance (MARA).

METHODS

The Forsus group was composed of 14 patients at an initial mean age of 12.4 ± 1.3 years, treated with the Forsus fatigue-resistant device followed by a fixed orthodontic appliance. The MARA group comprised 18 patients at an initial mean age of 12.1 ± 1.3 years, treated with MARA followed by fixed orthodontic appliances. The untreated control group consisted of 14 patients matched with the other groups. Posttreatment changes were calculated as T1 - T2. Intergroup comparisons regarding treatment changes were performed using repeated-measures analysis of variance followed by Tukey's test.

RESULTS

During treatment, the Forsus group showed a statistically significant decrease in maxillary protrusion and maxillomandibular sagittal discrepancy in the control group. The MARA group showed significantly greater retrusion of maxillary incisors than the Forsus and the control group. Overjet decreased significantly more in the treated groups in relation to the control group. Molar relationship improved significantly more in both treated groups, and both showed more correction than the untreated control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The Forsus and MARA associated with fixed appliances effectively corrected the Class II malocclusion, mostly using dentoalveolar changes and maxillary growth restriction.

Differential Maxillary Expander as an Alternative Device for Early Treatment of Posterior Crossbite: Case Report

AbstractRapid maxillary expansion (RME) is the protocol of choice for early treatment of transverse malocclusions and it is achieved with fixed expanders that produce heavy forces to achieve midpalatal suture opening. One third of patients with maxillary constriction have a greater transversal deficiency at the intercanine width than at the intermolar. The aim of this article is to present a protocol for early treatment of posterior crossbite with the use of the expander with differential opening (EDO) for RME. It is a new appliance to perform RME and its main advantage would be to allow the expansion individualization. EDO was proposed aiming to promote greater expansion on the anterior rather than on the posterior region. A 9 year-old female sought treatment. The interceptive treatment plan was based on using EDO for RME. The post-expansion orthopedic response showed an opening of 7.5 mm between the maxillary central incisors, at the level of the incisal edge. It was observed an opening of 4.8mm in the midpalatal suture. The opening at a distance of 10 mm and 20 mm from the crest to posterior at the midpalatal suture were 3.9mm and 2.8mm. The upper intercanine distance showed an increase of 9.31 mm. The upper intermolar distance had increased 8.04 mm. The upper arch perimeter showed a difference from 74.02 mm to 80.11 mm . And the upper arch length, from 29.83 mm to 31.56 mm. The posterior crossbite was 2 mm overcorrected. Early diagnosis and treatment of posterior crossbite has a very favorable prognosis. Keywords: Palatal Expansion Technique. Interceptive Orthodontics. Malocclusion. Resumo A expansão rápida da maxila (ERM) é a técnica de escolha para o tratamento precoce das más oclusões transversais e é ativada com expansores fixos que produzem forças pesadas para possibilitar a abertura da sutura palatina mediana. Um terço dos pacientes com atresia maxilar apresenta uma maior deficiência transversal na região intercaninos do que na região intermolares. O objetivo desse artigo é apresentar um protocolo de tratamento precoce para a mordida cruzada posterior utilizando o expansor maxilar Diferencial (EMD) para realizar a ERM. EMD é um novo dispositivo que pode ser empregado para realização da ERM e sua principal vantagem seria permitir a individualização da expansão. EMD foi proposto para proporcionar maior expansão na região anterior do que na região posterior da maxila. Uma menina de 9 anos de idade buscou tratamento. O plano de tratamento interceptativo proposto foi ERM utilizando o dispositivo EMD. A resposta ortopédica pós-expansão mostrou uma abertura de 7,5 mm entre os incisivos centrais superiores, ao nível da borda incisal. Foi observada uma abertura de 4,8 mm na sutura palatina mediana. A abertura a uma distância de 10 mm e 20 mm da crista para posterior na sutura palatina mediana foi de 3,9 mm e 2,8 mm. A distância intercaninos superior apresentou aumento de 9,31 mm. A distância intermolares superiores aumentou 8,04 mm. O perímetro do arco superior apresentou diferença de 74,02 mm para 80,11 mm. E o comprimento do arco superior, de 29,83 mm para 31,56 mm. A mordida cruzada posterior foi sobrecorrigida em 2 mm. O diagnóstico precoce e o tratamento da mordida cruzada posterior tem um prognóstico muito favorável. Palavras-chave: Técnica de Expansão Palatina. Ortodontia Interceptora. Má Oclusão.

Orthodontic Treatment in Adult Patients with Periodontal Commitment: Case Report

AbstractThere is an increasing demand for orthodontic treatment by adult patients in dental offices. Orthodontic treatment in adults has particular characteristics, because, in addition to not showing active growth, there are situations that demand interrelation with other areas of dentistry, such as, Periodontics, Dental Prosthesis, Restorative Dentistry and Implantology. The objective of this work was to describe a clinical case of an adult patient with periodontal involvement, establishing the main considerations to be taken in the orthodontic treatment of adult patients with periodontal involvement. The results obtained in the clinical case showed that it is possible to treat patients with periodontal involvement as long as some precautions are taken, such as strict hygiene control, in association with the specialty of periodontics, a reduced sequence of wires, in order to shorten treatment time, using low intensity forces, to minimize damage to periodontal tissues. The orthodontic treatment performed, gave the patient the desired smile functionality and aesthetics, prioritizing a strict hygiene control, the use of light forces, simplification in orthodontic movement, as well as the use of fixed and permanent restraints in areas of reduced periodontium. Keywords: Orthodontic Treatment. Adult. Periodontics. Alveolar Bone Loss. Resumo É crescente a procura de tratamento ortodôntico por pacientes adultos nos consultórios odontológicos. O tratamento ortodôntico em adultos, apresenta características particulares, pois, além de não apresentar crescimento ativo, ocorrem situações que demandam a inter-relação com outras áreas da odontologia como a, Periodontia, Prótese dentária, Dentística Restauradora e Implantodontia. O objetivo desse trabalho foi descrever um caso clínico de paciente adulta comprometida periodontalmente, estabelecendo as principais considerações a serem tomadas no tratamento ortodôntico de pacientes adultos com comprometimento periodontal. Os resultados obtidos no caso clínico, demonstraram, que é possível tratar os pacientes com comprometimento periodontal desde que sejam tomados alguns cuidados, como controle restrito de higienização, em associação com a especialidade da periodontia, uma sequência reduzida de fios, com o intuito de abreviar o tempo de tratamento, utilizando forças de baixa intensidade, para minimizar danos aos tecidos periodontais. O tratamento ortodôntico realizado, devolveu a paciente a funcionalidade e a estética do sorriso almejada, priorizando um controle rígido de higienização, o uso de forças leves, a simplificação na movimentação ortodôntica, bem como o uso de contenções fixas e permanentes em áreas de periodonto reduzido. Palavras-chave: Tratamento Ortodôntico. Adulto. Periodontia. Perda Óssea Alveolar.

Differential Diagnosis of Skeletal Class II: Orthodontic-Surgical Approach with Surgery First

AbstractOrthodontic-surgical treatment with the “Surgery First Approach” provides immediate facial aesthetic improvements and significantly reduces the patient's orthodontic treatment time, avoiding the transient worsening of the facial profile due to dental decompensation that occurs in surgical cases. Thus, this clinical case describes the retreatment of a 22-year-old female leukoderma patient, whose main complaint was related to the proclination of upper and lower incisors. The patient used a mio-relaxing plate for 30 days, which evidenced the skeletal mandibular deficiency and the ½ bilateral Class II malocclusion. Orthognathic surgery first approach associated with the extraction of the 4 premolars was chosen considering the patient’s aesthetic demand. The use of a mio-relaxing plate in the diagnostic stage was essential for the real diagnosis of mandibular deficiency and the technique employed made it possible to conclude the treatment avoiding aesthetic commitment, with excellent results. Keywords: Malocclusion, Angle Class II. Orthognathic Surgery. Orthodontics, Corrective. ResumoO tratamento ortodôntico-cirúrgico por meio do benefício antecipado proporciona melhorias estéticas faciais imediatas e reduz de maneira significativa o tempo de tratamento ortodôntico do paciente, evitando a piora transitória do perfil facial devido à descompensação dentária que ocorre em casos cirúrgicos. Assim, este caso clínico descreve o retratamento de uma paciente com 22 anos de idade, leucoderma, sexo feminino, que apresentava queixa principal relacionada à inclinação vestibular dos dentes anteriores. Após uso de placa miorrelaxante por 30 dias, verificou-se a presença de Classe II esquelética com deficiência mandibular e ½ Classe II dentária bilateral. Considerando a demanda estética da paciente, optou-se pela abordagem ortodôntico-cirúrgica com Benefício Antecipado associada à extração de 4 pré-molares para correção da inclinação dentária anterior. O uso da placa miorrelaxante foi fundamental para o diagnóstico real da deficiência mandibular e a técnica empregada possibilitou concluir o tratamento evitando o comprometimento estético pré-cirúrgico, com obtenção de excelentes resultados. Palavras-chave: Maloclusão Classe II de Angle. Cirurgia Ortognática. Ortodontia Corretiva.

Stability of early anterior open bite treatment: a 2-year follow-up randomized clinical trial

This 2-year-follow up study compared and evaluated the stability of early anterior open bite (AOB) treatment based on different appliances. Children from 7 to 10 years with Angle Class I, AOB larger than 1.0 mm and fully erupted maxillary and mandibular permanent central incisors were eligible. The initial sample was 99 patients distributed, by simple randomization, into four groups: BS (bonded spurs), CC (chincup), FPC (fixed palatal crib) and RPC (removable palatal crib). Cephalometric analysis was performed at baseline (T1), final (T2) and 2-year post-treatment (T3) by taking the overbite measurements as the main outcome. Blinding was possible to cephalometric analysis. At T3, with dropouts, there were 63 individuals, being BS (n=15; overbite 0.19 mm; 11.54 years; 10 female (F)/5 male (M)); CC (n=11; overbite -0.19 mm; 11.41 years; 8 F/3 M); FPC (n=21; overbite 1.23 mm; 11.44 years; 15 F/6 M) and; RPC (n=16; overbite 0.73 mm; 11.67 years; 6 F/10 M). Changes in dentoskeletal variables and breaking deleterious oral habits during the follow up were statically analyzed with p<.05. Mandibular skeletal linear measurements and vertical dental components have gradually increased with age, manly at pubertal growth spurt and at the establishment of permanent dentition after treatment. Incisor teeth extrusion had impact on AOB correction and stability in 4 groups, which recorded a 1.15 mm-improvement of overbite after treatment (T3-T2). The experimental appliances were effective with stable results, being FPC the device recorded the highest AOB correction and the lowest patient withdrawal rate.

External apical root resorption 6 months after initiation of orthodontic treatment: A randomized clinical trial comparing fixed appliances and orthodontic aligners

Objective

To compare the magnitude of external apical root resorption (EARR) 6 months after starting orthodontic treatment using orthodontic aligners (OAs) and fixed appliances (FAs).

Methods

This parallel randomized clinical trial included 40 patients randomized into two groups OA group (n = 20, 160 incisors) and FA group (n = 20, 160 incisors). For evaluation of the tooth length, periapical radiographs and standardized linear measurements of the maxillary and mandibular incisors were acquired before (T0) and 6 months after treatment initiation (T1). EARR was calculated through the difference in length between the two time points (T1–T0). Statistical comparisons were performed by means of using t-tests, chi-squared test and covariance analysis (a = 5%).

Results

Rounding of the root apex was observed in both groups; the resorption involved 2.88% of the root length, so 97.12% of the tooth length remained intact. Intragroup comparisons between the two time points revealed a significant difference, with (T1–T0) ranging from −0.52 to −0.88 mm in the FA group and from −0.52 to −0.85 mm in the OA group. In the intergroup comparisons, only tooth #21 presented a statistically significant difference (OA −0.52 ± 0.57 mm, FA −0.86 ± 0.60 mm); however, the overall differences between groups were not clinically relevant, ranging from 0.03 to 0.35 mm.

Conclusions

OA and FA treatment resulted in a similar degree of EARR in the maxillary and mandibular incisors at 6 months after treatment initiation. However, the amount of resorption was small and does not impair tooth longevity.

Interdisciplinary Orthodontic Treatment to Reestablishment Smile Function and Aesthetics

AbstractExtrusive tooth movements are an important resource in orthodontic treatment and allow the manipulation of teeth and periodontal tissues. They can be performed quickly or slowly, depending on the patient’s need. Rapid extrusion is indicated for cases in need of prosthetic preparation or restoration, where the bone and gingival tissues are intact, such as horizontal and oblique fractures, coronary or external root resorption, iatrogenic perforations (trepanations) and the presence of subgingival caries. The aim of this study is to describe the treatment of a patient who had a coronary fracture of the right upper central incisor, with a limit located 1 mm above the level of the bone crest. Rapid orthodontic extrusion was performed, to restore biologic distances and allow the preparation for prosthesis. It started with partial differentiated bonding of a fixed orthodontic appliance to the upper arch, to allow for a 3mm orthodontic extrusion. At the end of the extrusion, periodontal surgery was performed to increase the clinical crown and endodontic treatment. After these procedures, the case was concluded with the fixed prosthesis installation. The realization of an integrated planning allowed the restoration of aesthetics, with preservation of the functional periodontal limits for the patient. Keywords: Tooth Movement Techniques. Orthodontic Extrusion. Crown Lengthening. ResumoOs movimentos dentários extrusivos constituem um recurso importante no tratamento ortodôntico e permitem a manipulação dos dentes e dos tecidos periodontais. Eles podem ser realizados de forma rápida ou lenta, dependendo da necessidade do paciente. A extrusão rápida está indicada para casos com necessidade de preparo protético ou restauração, onde os tecidos ósseo e gengival encontram-se íntegros, tais como fraturas horizontais e oblíquas, reabsorções coronárias ou radiculares externas, perfurações iatrogências (trepanações) e presença de cárie subgengival. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever o tratamento de uma paciente que apresentava fratura coronária do incisivo central superior direito, com limite localizado 1mm acima do nível da crista óssea. Realizou-se extrusão ortodôntica rápida, com a finalidade de restabelecer as distâncias biológicas e permitir o preparo para prótese. Iniciou-se com colagem diferenciada parcial de aparelho ortodôntico fixo no arco superior, para permitir a extrusão ortodôntica de 3mm. Ao término da extrusão, realizou-se cirurgia periodontal para aumento da coroa clínica e tratamento endodôntico. Após esses procedimentos, o caso foi finalizado com a instalação da prótese fixa. A realização de um planejamento integrado permitiu o restabelecimento da estética, com preservação dos limites periodontais funcionais para a paciente.Palavras-chave: Técnicas de Movimentação Dentária. Extrusão Ortodôntica. Aumento da Coroa Clínica.

Class ii treatment effects with fixed functional appliances: jasper jumper vs. forsus fatigue resistant device

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare cephalometric changes of Class II malocclusion patients treated with Jasper Jumper and Forsus, associated with fixed appliances.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 62 individuals divided into 3 groups: group 1 included 22 subjects with a mean initial age of 12.39 years, treated with Jasper Jumper associated with fixed appliances for a mean period of 2.43 years; group 2 included 19 subjects with a mean initial age of 12.43 years, treated with Forsus associated with fixed appliances for a mean period of 3.54 years; and group 3 included 22 Class II malocclusion untreated subjects at a mean age of 12.14 years, followed for a mean period of 1.78 years. Intergroup comparison was performed with one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey test.

RESULTS

Both treated groups had similar dentoskeletal changes: restrictive effect on the maxilla; clockwise rotation of the occlusal plane; mild increase in lower anterior facial height; limitation on the vertical development of the maxillary molars; labial tipping and intrusion of the mandibular incisors; extrusion of mandibular molars; improvements of the maxillomandibular relationship, overjet, overbite, molar relationship; and retrusion of the upper lip. The mandibular incisors exhibited greater protrusion in group 1 compared to the other groups. In addition, group 2 presented mild protrusion of the lower lip, and groups 1 and 3 showed mild retrusion.

CONCLUSION

The Jasper Jumper and Forsus appliances were effective and showed similar changes in the treatment of Class II malocclusion.

Clinical complications during early treatment of anterior open bite

The object of this study was to compare the clinical complications of 4 different appliances used in the early treatment of anterior open bite (AOB), and to test the null hypothesis that there is no difference in the number of complications among the appliances. Records from 99 Class I malocclusion patients with AOB treated using bonded spurs, BS, n = 25; chin cup, CC, n = 25; fixed palatal crib, FPC, n = 25; and removable palatal crib, RPC, n = 24) were examined. The total number and frequency of clinical complications that occurred over 12 months were described and compared by using chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests (Dunn's post-test) (α = 5%, CI = 95%). The incidence of clinical complications was 66.7%, comprising: breakage, bond failure, maladjustment, allergy, soft-tissue lesion, loss of removable appliance and abandonment. Eighteen patients gave up treatment; this occurred more frequently in the groups with removable appliances. Regarding the total number of complications per patient, Group BS exhibited a significantly higher number than the other groups (p < 0.0001). A low frequency of complications (1 to 3) was found in the groups, except for Group BS, in which 8% of the patients presented moderate frequency (4 to 6). In terms of appliance types (fixed or removable), there was no difference in the incidence of complications (p > 0.094). The null hypothesis was rejected, since the BS group exhibited the highest total number and frequency of complications. There was no difference between fixed and removable appliances in terms of incidence of clinical complications, although more patients using removable appliances abandoned their treatment.

Perceived pain during rapid maxillary expansion in children with different expanders

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate and compare the intensity of pain caused by rapid maxillary expansion (RME) with two expanders: Hyrax and Haas type, in growing patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-nine patients (23 girls and 16 boys) with an average age of 9.3 years (SD = 1.39 years) were randomized into two groups and treated with Hyrax- and Haas-type expanders. In both groups, initial activation of the expander screw was one full turn on the first day followed by 2/4 of a turn two times a day (morning and night) for 7 days. Inclusion criteria were patients presenting with a posterior crossbite or maxillary atresia between 7 and 12 years old. To evaluate the intensity of pain during the active phase of the treatment, a combination of the Numerical Rating Scale and Wong-Baker Faces Pain Scale was used. Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the two treatment groups.

RESULTS

There was significant inverse correlation between days following insertion and pain. During the expansion period, 100% of the children reported some pain. Hyrax expander subjects reported greater pain than those treated with the Haas-type expander only on the first day. The level of pain remained greater in girls throughout treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Pain was reported regardless of the type of expander and was higher in the Hyrax group only on the first day of activation.

Effects of orthodontic treatment with aligners and fixed appliances on speech

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate effects of orthodontic treatment with aligners and conventional fixed appliances on production of speech.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a parallel, randomized clinical trial. Patients with Angle Class I malocclusion, moderate crowding, and no speech impairment were randomly allocated to two groups: patients with orthodontic aligners (OAs; n = 20; mean age = 23.60 ± 5.65 years) and those with conventional fixed appliances (n = 20; mean age = 20.56 ± 4.51 years) and treated at the University of North Parana's clinic in Londrina, Brazil. Evaluation of speech production was performed semiobjectively by a speech therapist (myofunctional orofacial examination) and subjectively (self-assessment) at five time points: baseline, immediately after insertion of appliances, and subsequently at 3, 30, and 180 days after insertion. For intergroup comparison, independent t, χ2, Fisher exact, and Mann-Whitney tests were used; for intragroup comparison, the Friedman test was applied (α = 5%).

RESULTS

In the semiobjective evaluation, patients with OAs exhibited a change in production of speech production, compared with patients with fixed appliances, immediately and 3 days after insertion of appliances (P < .001). Thirty days after insertion, the groups were similar (P = .487), an outcome that was unchanged at 180 days. However, in the self-assessments, patients in both groups reported significant speech difficulties immediately and 3 days after insertion of appliances, but such impairment was no longer perceived at 30 days or 180 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the speech therapist identified changes in speech production at the start of treatment in the OA group only, patient self-assessments demonstrated that orthodontic treatment, regardless of the type of appliance used, interfered with their perception of speech.

Evaluation of Dental Practices Changes During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Brazil

Dentists are healthcare professionals who are at high risk of infection and transmission of the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). The primary objective of the present study was to evaluate the changes in clinical practice made by Brazilian dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic. From June 22 to July 13, 2020, an online questionnaire was sent to dentists using Google Forms. After providing consent, 1,178 dentists answered questions regarding their knowledge and clinical experiences related to COVID-19. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, Fisher's exact, or Kruskal-Wallis tests, with a significance level of 5%. Brazilian dentists significantly changed their routine dental practices. Biosafety measures were added in their offices by 98% of the dentists, increasing operating costs for 88.3% of dentists. Greater discomfort due to the increase in personal protection equipment (PPE) worn during the pandemic was reported by 58.6%. Furthermore, 84.2% reduced heir hours of service. It was found that the dentists decreased their workload, used additional PPE, and took additional biosafety measures.

Does Pigment Incorporation into Regular Composite Resins for Posterior Buildups Alter Their Bond Strength?

Posterior build-ups are auxiliary devices to orthodontic treatment which are made with resin-based or glass ionomer composites. Their removal requires care to protect the tooth surface, therefore, pigmented materials are preferred for a better visualization. This study proposed a pigmentation experimental technique of a regular composite resin, evaluating the microshear bond strength test (µ-SBT) of this experimental pigmented resin and comparing with a blue-colored polyacid-modified composite resin, used for posterior buildups. Forty-eight buccal and lingual surfaces of human teeth were used and randomly divided into 4 groups (n=12). The groups were divided into: C (control), regular composite resin; P, regular composite resin pigmented; UBL, Ultra Band Lok™; OB, Ortho Bite™. The composites were bonded using a matrix to obtain microcylinders and prepared for each experimental groups. The samples were then stored in distilled water for 24h at 37°C followed by a µ-SBT. The types of bond failures were evaluated using a stereoscopic magnifying glass (10×). The data were analyzed by ANOVA with Fisher post hoc and Dunnett´s test. Means of µ-SBT± standard deviation (MPa) were: C (39.98a±13.0), P (40.09a± 14.3); UBL (33.26ab±8.6); OB (28.70b±5.5). The most prevalent type of failure was adhesive (80.4%). Further, was not observed a statistically significant correlation between the bond strength values and failure patterns. The pigmentation of a commercially available resin did not alter the µ-SBT and exhibited similar adhesiveness as a polyacid-modified composite resin.

A prospective clinical trial of the effects produced by the Connecticut intrusion arch on the maxillary dental arch

OBJECTIVE

To assess and compare the effects produced in the maxillary dental arch by means of Connecticut intrusion arch (CIA) with or without a cinch back on the distal end of the tube of the first molars.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 44 patients with a mean age of 13.1 ± 1.8 years treated for deep bite with a CIA randomly divided into two groups: group 1 (G1), 22 patients with initial mean age of 12.72 ± 1.74 years treated with the CIA in the upper arch without a cinch back on the distal surface of the tube of the first molars, and group 2 (G2), 22 patients with an initial mean age of 13.67 ± 2.03 years treated with the CIA with a cinch back. Lateral cephalograms were available before treatment (T1) and after intrusion of maxillary incisors (T2). The mean treatment period was 5.5 ± 1.45 months. Intragroup and intergroup changes in the maxillary incisor and molar positions were analyzed by paired and independent t-tests associated with the Holm-Bonferroni correction method for multiple comparisons (P < .05).

RESULTS

There were significant differences between groups in terms of maxillary incisor displacement. The maxillary incisors flared labially (2.17°) and proclined (1.68 mm) in group 1, whereas a palatal inclination (-1.99°) and retroclination (-1.13 mm) was observed in group 2. No significant differences were found for the molar positions between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence or absence of a distal bend in CIA affects incisor tipping and proclination during intrusion mechanics.

Do fluorescent agents alter the mechanical strength of orthodontic adhesives? An in vitro and clinical study

Background

Fluorescent agents are added to orthodontic adhesives with the aim of making them visible under ultraviolet (UV) light, which ensures the complete, safe removal of remnants after orthodontic treatment. However, it is necessary to evaluate if the mechanical strength of these materials is maintained. Therefore, this study evaluated whether the addition of fluorescent agents influences the shear bond strength and clinical performance of a UV light-sensitive adhesive system.

Methods

This study consisted of two stages: (1) In vitro phase: 40 human teeth were selected, divided at random into 2 groups (n = 20), according to the adhesive system used: UV group—adhesive with fluorescent agent, and control group—conventional adhesive. A shear bond strength test was performed using a DL 2000 universal testing machine, at a speed of 0.5 mm/min. The accessories were removed and an evaluation of the Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) was carried out. (2) Clinical phase: 8 patients were selected and had their appliances bonded using the split-mouth design (160 teeth) with the same tested adhesive systems (UV, n = 80; control, n = 80). The patients were monitored for bonding failure for a period of 24 months. Statistical analysis was performed using the Independent t test, chi-squared tests, and Mann-Whitney test, at a level of significance of 5% and confidence interval of 95%.

Results

Regarding the in vitro phase, the shear bond strength test yielded similar results in the two groups (p > 0.05) and the ARI showed statistically significant differences between the groups with a score of 1 being the most frequent ARI for both groups (70%). In addition, there was no clinical difference in terms of bonding failure between the groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The addition of fluorescent elements does not alter the mechanical strength and performance of the orthodontic adhesive and represents a viable alternative for clinical application.

Correction of Anterior Open Bite Malocclusion with the Association of Removable Palatal Crib and Chincup

AbstractAnterior open bite affects the child population by approximately 20%, with great aesthetic-functional impairment due to dental-skeletal changes, which may involve the presence of posterior crossbite. The objective was to present the anterior open bite correction associated with posterior crossbite with the use of a removable palatal crib. Patient during the mixed dentition phase presented an anterior open bite caused by a pacifier sucking habit and secondary lingual interposition. The treatment protocol consisted of the use of removable expander with palatal crib and nocturnal use of the chincup. The anterior open bite was corrected, and the best transverse relation of the arches was obtained. The precocious treatment using the palatal crib associated to the chincup allows to achieve favorable results in the resolution of the anterior open bite. Keywords: Open Bite. Malocclusion. Orthodontics, Interceptive. ResumoA mordida aberta anterior acomete a população infantil em aproximadamente 20%, com grande comprometimento estético-funcional em decorrência das alterações dentoesqueléticas, podendo envolver a presença de mordida cruzada posterior. O objetivo do estudo foi apresentar a correção da mordida aberta anterior associada à mordida cruzada posterior com a utilização de grade palatina removível. Paciente em fase de dentadura mista, apresentava mordida aberta anterior ocasionada por um hábito de sucção de chupeta e interposição lingual secundária. O protocolo de tratamento consistiu na utilização de expansor removível com grade palatina e uso noturno da mentoneira. A mordida aberta anterior foi corrigida e melhor relação transversal dos arcos foi obtida. O tratamento precoce utilizando grade palatina associada à mentoneira permite alcançar resultados favoráveis na resolução da mordida aberta anterior. Palavras-chave: Mordida Aberta. Má Oclusão. Ortodontia Interceptora.

Kinesio taping use to reduce pain and edema after third molar extraction surgery: A randomized controlled split-mouth study

OBJECTIVE

Evaluating Kinesio Taping (KT) use to reduce pain and edema in individuals subjected to surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirteen individuals (5 men and 8 women, mean age: 23.25 years) were subjected to mutual extraction of two mandibular third molars based on the same surgical protocol and pharmacological approach. All individuals were subjected to kinesio taping application on one side of patients' face (test group - KT), in the immediate postoperative period. The other side of the face was not subjected to KT application, and it was used as control (No KT). An examiner assessed individuals' pain and edema based on the visual analog scale (VAS) and on the Todorović-Marković method, respectively, at the preoperative, immediate postoperative, and second and fifth postoperative days. Statistical analysis was based on the Scheirer-Ray-Hare test.

RESULTS

Edema (48 h and 120 h after surgery) and pain intensity (24 h, 48 h and 120 h after surgery) were lower on the KT side (p < 0.05). Moreover, edema and pain intensity fully reduced on the KT side 120 h after surgery (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Kinesio taping adopted in the current study was effective in reducing edema and postoperative pain in patients subjected to oral surgery.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

KT enables patients to experience a more comfortable postoperative period and helps improving their quality of life.

Analysis of the Preventative Influence of an Oral Hygiene Protocol on Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia

AbstractVentilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is the most commonly reported nosocomial infection among intensive care unit (ICU) patients. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of an oral hygiene protocol on VAP incidence among mechanically-ventilated (MV) ICU patients. The dentate patients admitted without VAP to the hospital’s adult ICU requiring mechanical ventilation for ≥48 hours during a 4-month period in two consecutive years (2015 – Control group and 2016 – Experimental group) were included in this investigation. The oral hygiene protocol was implemented daily, once a day, in the morning hours, using a disposable brush with suction and ultrasoft bristles and 3 g of 0.12% chlorhexidine gel. Hospital-related respiratory infection data, including VAP diagnoses and microbiological analyses, were collected from the monthly health epidemiological notification bulletins issued by the hospital. T tests were applied to compare variables before versus after implementation of the oral hygiene protocol with a significance criterion of P < .05. 43.94% reduction in VAP rate after the protocol implementation was observed. Implementation of the protocol was associated with a significant reduction of Enterobacter spp infections and no cases of VAP related to the main etiological agents of the disease (i.e., S. aureus and C. albicans) were identified. It can be concluded that an oral hygiene protocol performed with a suction brush and 0.12% chlorhexidine gel can serve as an effective prophylaxis against VAP in patients under mechanical ventilation.Keywords: Intensive Care Units. Disease Prevention. Oral Hygiene.ResumoA pneumonia associada à ventilação (PAV) é a infecção nosocomial mais comumente relatada em pacientes de Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI). Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a influência de um protocolo de higiene bucal na incidência de PAV entre pacientes sob ventilação mecânica (VM). Os pacientes dentados internados na UTI adulta do hospital sem PAV e que necessitaram de ventilação mecânica por ≥ 48 horas durante um período de 4 meses em dois anos consecutivos (2015 - grupo Controle e 2016 - grupo Experimental) foram incluídos nesta investigação. O protocolo de higiene bucal foi implementado diariamente, uma vez ao dia, nas primeiras horas da manhã, utilizando-se escova descartável com cerdas de sucção e ultramacia e 3 g de gel de clorexidina a 0,12%. Dados de infecção respiratória relacionada ao hospital, incluindo diagnósticos de PAV e análises microbiológicas, foram coletados dos boletins mensais de notificação epidemiológica de saúde emitidos pelo hospital. Testes t foram aplicados para comparar as variáveis antes e após a implementação do protocolo de higiene bucal com um critério de significância de P <0,05. Observamos uma redução de 43,94% na taxa de PAV após a implementação do protocolo. A implementação do protocolo foi associada à uma redução significativa das infecções por Enterobacter spp e não foram identificados casos de PAV relacionados aos principais agentes etiológicos da doença (isto é, S. aureus e C. albicans). Pode-se concluir que u protocolo de higiene bucal realizado com escova de sucção e gel de clorexidina a 0,12% pode servir como uma profilaxia efetiva contra a PAV em pacientes sob ventilação mecânica.Palavras-chave: Unidade de Terapia Intensiva. Prevenção de Doenças. Higiene Bucal.

Supranumerário: a Importância do Tratamento Ortodôntico Precoce

AbstractThe presence of supernumeraries may lead to irruptive problems, such as impacted teeth, functional and aesthetic disorders. The present study describes two clinical cases, with anterior teeth eruption disorders caused by additional dental elements, treated early. Patients presented with aesthetic involvement, with delay in the emergence of the upper incisors. The clinical and radiographic examinations detected the presence of obstacles to the teeth eruption. Early treatment with 2x4 appliance was realized, followed by final corrective orthodontics. After restoration of the dimension for retained teeth, there was spontaneous eruption in clinical case 1 and need of traction in clinical case 2. When patients reached the complete permanent dentition, a corrective phase was performed with the objective of detailing the dental occlusion and finishing the treatment. The early diagnosis of teeth impacted and supernumerary, provide the achievement of adequate occlusion and positive aesthetic of patients, with good prognosis, avoiding psychological and functional problems caused by absence of anterior teeth. Keywords Interceptive Orthodontics. Supernumerary Tooth. Ectopic Tooth Eruption. ResumoA presença de supranumerários pode ocasionar problemas irruptivos, como impacção de dentes, desordens funcionais e estéticas. O presente trabalho descreve dois casos clínicos abordados precocemente, com alterações na irrupção de dentes anteriores devido a presença de supranumerários. Os pacientes apresentavam queixas estéticas, com atraso no aparecimento dos incisivos superiores. Os exames clínico e radiográfico detectaram a presença de barreiras irruptivas.  Realizou-se tratamento precoce com auxílio da mecânica 4x2, seguido pela ortodontia corretiva final. Após etapa de restabelecimento da dimensão para os dentes retidos, houve irrompimento espontâneo no caso clínico 1 e necessidade de tracionamento no caso clínico 2. Quando pacientes atingiram a dentição permanente completa, realizou-se uma fase corretiva com o objetivo de detalhamento da oclusão dentária e finalização do tratamento. O diagnóstico precoce de impacção dentária e detecção de supranumerários favoreceu a restituição de oclusão adequada e estética dos pacientes, com prognóstico muito favorável, evitando problemas psicológicos e funcionais provocados pela ausência de dentes anteriores. Palavras-chave: Ortodontia interceptora. Dente supranumerário. Erupção ectópica de dente.

Stability of early treatment of anterior open bite: clinical performance of bonded lingual spurs

Anterior open bite (AOB) is a malocclusion that generates aesthetic, speech, feeding and psychological issues, a fact that emphasises the importance of conducting early treatments to fix the disorder. Finger-sucking, pacifiers and oral habits are the main aetiological factors of AOB; thus, it is necessary to apply interceptive treatments focused on correcting and improving bite stability during childhood in order prevent the need of undergoing advanced therapy. The aim of this article is to present the early diagnosis of aetiological factors causing severe AOB and the interceptive treatment based on the use of bonded lingual spurs for one year. Results showed excellent bite stability after two years of follow-up; in other words, the proper treatment applied for the recommended growth and developmental periods enabled case stability.

Using UV light for adhesive remnant removal after debonding of orthodontic accessories

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of a UV light-based auxiliary illumination on adhesive remnant (AR) removal after orthodontic debonding. Sixty human molars were divided according to the adhesive used for bonding: O-opaque; LF-low fluorescence; and HF-high fluorescence. After debonding, the teeth were subdivided according to the AR removal method: No UV light or With UV light. After AR removal, the teeth were polished. Direct visual analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and time quantification for AR removal analyses were performed (Fisher-Freeman-Halton, Fisher's exact, chi-square trend, ANOVA, and independent t-tests; α = 5%). Concerning the adhesives, there was no significant difference among direct visual, SEM and time analyses for AR removal (p ≥ 0.05). Regarding AR removal methods, a similarity among the subgroups was verified for direct visual and SEM analyses (p≥0.05). However, a significant trend was verified for the with UV light method to produce greater marks, and the no UV light method, to produce a greater rate of samples with AR before polishing (p = 0.015). AR removal with light was significantly quicker in comparison with the no UV light method (p < 0.0001). The use of UV light may aid orthodontists in removing AR more thoroughly and in less time. However, they should receive special training to apply this technology, and should never dismiss the final polishing procedure.

Dimensional Stability of Alginates Molds Tridimentionally Scanned

AbstractAlginate is among the most used materials in dentistry to create teeth negative printing and reproduction. The goal of this study was to compare dimensional changes of alginate scanned impression materials. Thirty impressions of a standard typodont were performed using three types of alginate (Hydrogum 5; Jeltrate Plus and Avagel). The impressions were scanned by the scanner 3Shape R700T and scans were performed immediately after molding. The analysis of digita models were performed at OrthoAnalyzer ™ 3D software. Measurements were carried out in relation to the transverse dimension (intercanine, interpremolares and intermolar). Method error was evaluated through the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman. One-way ANOVA, Dunnet Post-test were used to compare the different groups in relation to Typodont (gold standard) for the different outcome variables. The data were tabulated in Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20.0 and Minitab 17.0 softwares to compare groups. The significance level was 5%. The posterior transverse variables (D1PM, D2PM and DM) presented a statistically significant difference regarding the gold standard (Typodont) for the plaster models performed after the Avagel molding. In the digital models performed just after molding, only in DM, the Avagel material group presented values statistically higher than the control group. The alginates Hydrogum 5 and Jeltrate Plus presented dimensions closer to the gold standard.Keywords: Dental Impression Materials. Dental Models. Imaging, Three-Dimensional.ResumoO alginato está entre os materiais de moldagem mais utilizados na Odontologia para criar impressão e reprodução negativa dos dentes. O objetivo desse trabalho foi comparar alterações transversais de três marcas comerciais de alginato (Hydrogum, Jeltrate e Avagel) em moldes de alginatos. Trinta moldes de um Typodont padrão foram realizados, utilizando três tipos de alginato (Hydrogum 5; Jeltrate Plus e Avagel). Os moldes foram escaneados por meio do scanner 3Shape R700T e os escaneamentos realizados logo após a moldagem e logo após a obtenção dos modelos de gesso. As análises dos modelos digitais foram realizadas no software OrthoAnalyzer™ 3D. Foram realizadas mensurações em relação à discrepância transversal (inter-caninos, inter primeiro pré-molar, inter-segundo pré-molar e inter-molares). O erro do método foi avaliado por meio do Coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse (CCI) e Bland-Altman. Utilizou-se Análise de Variância (one-way ANOVA, Pós-teste Dunnet) para comparação dos diferentes grupos em relação ao typodont (padrão-ouro) para as diferentes variáveis de desfecho. A análise estatística foi realizada nos programas Statistical Package for Social Sciences versão 20.0 e no programa Minitab 17.0 para comparação dos grupos. O nível de significância foi de 5%. As variáveis transversais posteriores (D1PM; D2PM e DM) apresentaram diferença estatisticamente significante em relação ao padrão-ouro (manequim) para os modelos de gesso realizados após a moldagem com Avagel. Nos modelos digitais realizados logo após a moldagem, apenas na DM, o grupo do material Avagel apresentou valores estatisticamente maiores do que o grupo controle. Os alginatos Hydrogum 5 e Jeltrate Plus apresentaram dimensões mais próximas do padrão-ouro.Palavras-chave: Materiais para Moldagem Odontológica. Modelos Dentários. Imagem Tridimensional.

Evaluation of Knowledge of the Oral Hygiene Protocol by the Nursing Team of the Intensive Care Unit of Two Hospitals In Londrina/PR

AbstractOral hygiene in the Intensive Care Unit - ICU is considered a basic and indispensable procedure whose goal is to maintain the patients’ healthy oral conditions, reducing complications and contributing to their recovery. The objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge on  the oral hygiene protocol by the ICU nursing team of two hospitals in Londrina/PR. The sample of this study was composed by the nursing and nursing technicians team of the Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital A and Hospital B, regardless of gender or age, and considering who had worked at the ICU for at least three months. A self-administered, unidentified questionnaire was used to collect data. The analyzed variables were: profession, age, sex, working time and oral hygiene. More than 80% of the professionals were Nursing Technicians, with average age above 30, female and working in the ICU of the hospital for over 3.5 years. The results of this study demonstrate the lack of knowledge of the oral hygiene protocol by more than 30% of the Nursing staff in both hospitals. Based on the  methodology and the results analysis, it can be concluded that the oral hygiene protocol is unknown by more than a third of the ICU Nursing team of both  surveyed hospitals. Keywords: Intensive Care Units. Disease Prevention. Oral Hygiene.ResumoA higiene bucal em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva - UTI é considerada um procedimento básico e indispensável cujo objetivo é manter saudáveis as condições bucais dos pacientes, reduzindo agravos e contribuindo para sua recuperação. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o conhecimento do protocolo de higiene bucal pela equipe de enfermagem da UTI de dois hospitais em Londrina/PR. A amostra deste estudo foi composta pela equipe de Enfermagem (Enfermeiros e Técnicos em Enfermagem) da Unidade de Terapia Intensiva do Hospital A e do Hospital B, independente do sexo e idade, e que trabalhavam na UTI, no mínimo, há três meses. Para a coleta de dados foi utilizado um questionário autoaplicável, não identificado. As variáveis analisadas foram: profissão, idade, sexo, tempo de trabalho e higiene bucal. Mais de 80% dos profissionais eram Técnicos em Enfermagem, com idade média acima dos 30 anos de idade, do sexo feminino e atuando na UTI do hospital, em média, acima de 3,5 anos. Os resultados deste estudo demonstram a falta de conhecimento do protocolo de higiene bucal, por mais de 30% da equipe de Enfermagem, em ambos os hospitais. Com base na metodologia e análise dos resultados, pode-se concluir que o protocolo de higiene bucal é desconhecido por mais de um terço da equipe de Enfermagem da UTI de ambos os hospitais pesquisados.Palavras-chave: Unidades de Terapia Intensiva. Prevenção de doenças. Higiene Bucal.

Dentoalveolar effects produced by different appliances on early treatment of anterior open bite: A randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES:

To compare different appliances for early anterior open bite (AOB) correction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a parallel, randomized clinical trial. A prospective sample of patients with AOB was recruited consecutively. Eligibility criteria included angle class I malocclusion with AOB equal to or greater than 1 mm. Participants were allocated by simple randomization to 4 groups: bonded spurs, chin cup, fixed palatal crib, and removable palatal crib. Dentoalveolar changes among the groups were assessed by blinded observers by comparing lateral cephalograms taken before (T1) and 12 months after treatment (T2; analysis of variance followed by Tukey test). Of the measurements, 30% were reassessed for reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman agreement test; α = 5%; 95% confidence interval).

RESULTS:

A total of 99 patients with a mean AOB of 3.7 mm (mean age 8.4 ± 0.8 years, both genders) were recruited. Dropouts occurred in all the groups, yielding a final sample size of 81 analyzed individuals. Intergroup comparisons of differences (T2-T1) showed significant differences for the incisor positioning variables (1.1, 1-PP, 6-PP, IMPA, 1.NB and 1-GoMe). However, there was no significant difference in AOB reduction among the groups, with an average correction of 3.1 mm.

CONCLUSIONS:

All of the tested devices promoted dental changes, especially in the anterior region, and contributed to AOB reduction during the study period. However, fixed palatal crib demonstrated greater impact on the positioning of the incisors.

Health-related quality of life of patients with squamous cell carcinoma: a comparison according to tumor location

The aim of this study was to evaluate the health-related quality of life (QOL) of patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) according to tumor location. The sample consisted of 27 patients with primary SCC in the oral cavity (n = 15), pharynx (n = 7), and larynx (n = 5) who were undergoing cancer treatment at the Cancer Hospital of Londrina, regardless of age, sex, clinical stage, and type of antineoplastic treatment. Health-related QOL was evaluated using the 30-item Cancer-Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-C30), the 35-item Head and Neck Cancer-Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-HN35), and the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UW-QOL). These questionnaires were administered individually to each patient before ambulatory care. Sociodemographic data (age and sex) and clinical data (T stage, tumor location, and type of antineoplastic treatment) were collected from the patients' medical records. Scores were compared according to tumor location using the chi-squared test and one-way analysis of variance (p < 0.05). No score differed significantly according to tumor location. It can be concluded that the health-related QOL of patients with SCC was not influenced by tumor location.

Avaliação do Seio Maxilar: Radiografia Panorâmica Versus Tomografia Computadorizada de Feixe Cônico

O objetivo deste estudo retrospectivo implica em comparar a presença de velamento, o espessamento de mucosa e a presença de septo no seio maxilar em radiografias panorâmicas e tomografias computadorizadas de feixe cônico (TCFC). A amostra foi composta por 100 pacientes do arquivo, que apresentavam as radiografias panorâmicas e as TCFC antes do início do tratamento ortodôntico, sendo 57 mulheres e 43 homens, com média de idade de 19,08 anos. Foram incluídas nesta pesquisa apenas os exames que apresentavam boa qualidade e bom posicionamento do paciente. A avaliação do velamento, espessamento de mucosa e presença de septo no seio maxilar foi realizada por um único examinador calibrado, de forma independente, nas radiografias e nas TCFC. A concordância entre os exames foi avaliada por meio do teste Kappa. Os resultados demonstraram boa concordância entre as radiografias panorâmicas e TCFC (Kappa entre 0,62 a 0,72), com -90, -88 e 89% de convergência entre os métodos, para velamento do seio maxilar; espessamento de mucosa e presença de septo no seio maxilar, respectivamente. Pode-se concluir que foi encontrada concordância satisfatória na avaliação do velamento, espessamento de mucosa e presença de septo no seio maxilar entre as radiografias panorâmica e TCFC. Dessa forma, as características do seio maxilar foram identificadas, de maneira semelhante, na radiografia panorâmica e na TCFC.Palavras-chave: Tomografia Computadorizada por Raios X. Radiografia Panorâmica. Diagnóstico.AbstractThe objective of this retrospective study was to compare the presence of filled maxillary sinus, mucosal thickening and the presence of septum in the maxillary sinus on panoramic radiographs and concomitant computed tomography (CBCT) scans. The sample consisted of 100 patients from the archive who presented the panoramic radiographs and the CBCT before the beginning of the orthodontic treatment, being 57 women and 43 men, with a mean age of 19.08 years. Only the exams that presented good quality and good positioning of the patient were included in this study. The evaluation of the presence of filled maxillary sinus, mucosal thickening and the presence of septum in the maxillary sinus was performed by a single examiner, regardless of who was calibrated on panoramic radiograph and CBCT. The agreement among the exams was assessed by means of Kappa test. The results showed good agreement between panoramic radiograph and CBCT (Kappa between 0.62 and 0.72), with -90, -88 and 89% convergence between the methods, for the presence of filled maxillary sinus, mucosal thickening and presence of septum in the maxillary sinus, respectively. It can be concluded that satisfactory agreement was found in the evaluation of the the presence of filled maxillary sinus, mucosal thickening and presence of septum in the maxillary sinus between the panoramic and CBCT radiographs. Thus, the characteristics of the maxillary sinus were similarly identified in panoramic radiography and CBCT.Palavras-chave: Tomography, X-Ray Computed. Radiography, Panoramic. Diagnosis.

A comparative study of the effect of the intrusion arch and straight wire mechanics on incisor root resorption: A randomized, controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To analyze and compare external apical root resorption (EARR) of maxillary incisors treated by intrusion arch or continuous archwire mechanics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) study analyzed 28 deep bite patients in the permanent dentition who were randomly divided into two groups: Group 1, 12 patients with initial mean age of 15.1 ± 1.6 years and mean overbite of 4.6 ± 1.2 mm treated with the Connecticut intrusion arch (CIA) in the upper arch (Ortho Organizers, Carlsbad, Calif) for a mean period of 5.8 ± 1.27 months. Group 2, 16 patients with initial mean age of 22.1 ± 5.7 years and mean overbite of 4.1 ± 1.1 mm treated with conventional leveling and alignment using continuous archwire mechanics for 6.1 ± 0.81 months. The degree of EARR was detected in 112 maxillary incisors by using CBCT scans and a three-dimensional program (Dolphin 11.7, Dolphin Imaging & Management Solutions, Chatsworth, Calif). The CBCT scans were obtained before (T1) and 6 months after initiation of treatment (T2). Differences between and within groups were assessed by nonpaired and paired t-tests, respectively, with a 5% significance level.

RESULTS

Significant differences were found for both groups between T1 and T2 ( P < .05) indicating that EARR occurred in both groups. However, there were no significant differences when EARR was compared between group 1 (-0.76 mm) and group 2 (-0.59 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

The Connecticut intrusion arch did not lead to greater EARR of maxillary incisors when compared with conventional orthodontic mechanics.

Evaluation of deflection forces of orthodontic wires with different ligation types

The aim of this study was to evaluate deflection forces of orthodontic wires of different alloys engaged into conventional brackets using several ligation types. Stainless steel, conventional superelastic nickel-titanium and thermally activated nickel-titanium archwires tied into conventional brackets by a ring-shaped elastomeric ligature (RSEL), a 8-shaped elastomeric ligature (8SEL) and a metal ligature (ML) were tested. A clinical simulation device was created especially for this study and forces were measured with an Instron Universal Testing Machine. For the testing procedure, the block representing the maxillary right central incisor was moved 0.5 and 1 mm bucco-lingually at a constant speed of 2 mm/min, and the forces released by the wires were recorded, in accordance with the ISO 15841 guidelines. In general, the RSEL showed lighter forces, while 8SEL and ML showed higher values. At the 0.5 mm deflection, the 8SEL presented the greatest force, but at the 1.0 mm deflection the ML had a statistically similar force. Based on our evaluations, to obtain lighter forces, the thermally activated nickel-titanium wire with the RSEL are recommended, while the steel wire with the 8SEL or the ML are recommended when larger forces are desired. The ML exhibited the highest force increase with increased deflections, compared with the elastomeric ligatures.

Evaluation of force released by deflection of orthodontic wires in conventional and self-ligating brackets

Introduction:

The aim of the study was to evaluate deflection forces of rectangular orthodontic wires in conventional (Morelli^TM), active (In-Ovation R^TM) and passive (Damon 3MX^TM) self-ligating brackets.

Material and Methods:

Two brands of stainless steel and nickel-titanium (NiTi) wires (Morelli^TM and GAC^TM), in addition to Ormco^TM copper-nickel-titanium wires were used. Specimens were assembled in a clinical simulation device especially designed for this study and tested in an Instron universal testing machine. For the testing procedures, an acrylic structure representative of the maxillary right central incisor was lingually moved in activations of 0 to 1 mm, with readings of the force released by deflection in unloading of 0.5, 0.8 and 1 mm at a constant speed of 2 mm/min. Inter-bracket forces with stainless steel, NiTi and CuNiTi were individually compared by two-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey’s tests.

Results:

Results showed that there were lower forces in conventional brackets, followed by active and passive self-ligating brackets. Within the brands, only for NiTi wires, the Morelli^TM brand presented higher forces than GAC^TM wires.

Conclusions:

Bracket systems provide different degrees of deflection force, with self-ligating brackets showing the highest forces.

Dentoskeletal effects produced by removable palatal crib, bonded spurs, and chincup therapy in growing children with anterior open bite

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the dentoskeletal effects of different anterior open bite treatment modalities in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cephalometric study assessed changes resulting from different treatment approaches on 77 growing children with anterior open bite. A control group (n = 30) was used for comparison. Lateral cephalograms were available before treatment and after 12 months. The sample was divided into four groups: removable palatal crib associated with a chincup (G1), bonded spurs associated with a chincup (G2), chincup (G3), and nontreated control (G4). Statistical comparisons among the four groups were performed on T1 and the treatment changes using analysis of variance with Tukey's post hoc tests.

RESULTS

No statistically significant changes in skeletal variables were found among the groups, except for lower anterior face height (LAFH) increase in G1. Overall, effects in all of the treated groups were exclusively dentoalveolar. A larger overbite (OB) increase was observed in G1 and G2 when compared with G3 and G4. The maxillary incisors in G1 showed increased palatal tipping, retrusion, and more vertical dentoalveolar development as well as increased lingual tipping among mandibular incisors. There was less vertical development of maxillary and mandibular molars in G3.

CONCLUSIONS

A removable palatal crib provided an improvement in OB (97.5%), followed by the bonded spurs (84.5%). Conversely, the chincup-only group did not have positive OB effects.

Dimensional changes of dental arches produced by fixed and removable palatal cribs: A prospective, randomized, controlled study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the dimensional changes of dental arches on digital models of open bite treatment with fixed and removable palatal cribs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The sample comprised 41 patients of both sexes who were white, aged 7-10 years, and who had mixed dentition, Angle Class I molar relationship, and a negative overbite of at least 1 mm. The sample was randomly divided into two groups: G1, fixed palatal crib; and G2, removable palatal crib. Cast models, obtained initially (T1) and after 1 year of treatment (T2), were scanned by a three-dimensional (3D) scanner, 3Shape R700, producing a 3D image. Measurements were performed by a calibrated examiner using OrthoAnalyzer™ 3D software.

RESULTS

At T2-T1, differences were observed between the groups regarding vertical dentoalveolar development and overjet. There was more mandibular incisor extrusion for G1 (-1.66 mm) than for G2 (-0.54 mm). An overjet increase was observed in G1 (0.56 mm), in contrast to a reduction in G2 (-0.40 mm). There was a similar overbite increase for both groups (3.51 mm for fixed palatal crib and 3.88 mm for removable palatal crib).

CONCLUSIONS

Both the treatment protocols are similarly effective for anterior open bite correction, providing an overbite increase with dentoalveolar arch changes, especially in the anterior region.

Facial height in Japanese-Brazilian descendants with normal occlusion

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study was to determine the standards of facial height in 30 young (14-year-old) Japanese-Brazilian descendants with normal occlusion, and assess whether sexual dimorphism is evident.

METHODS:

The cephalometric measurements used followed the analyses by Wylie-Johnson, Siriwat-Jarabak, Gebeck, Merrifield and Horn.

RESULTS:

Results showed dimorphism for total anterior facial height (TAFH), lower anterior facial height (LAFH), anterior facial height (AFH), total posterior facial height (TPFH) and upper posterior facial height (UPFH) measurements.

CONCLUSIONS:

The standards of facial heights in young Japanese-Brazilian descendants with normal occlusion were observed. Sexual dimorphism was identified in five out of thirteen evaluated variables at this age range.

Comparative study of dental cephalometric patterns of Japanese-Brazilian, Caucasian and Mongoloid patients

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to identify the patterns of dental variables of adolescent Japanese-Brazilian descendants with normal occlusion, and also to compare them with a similar Caucasian and Mongoloid sample.

METHODS

Lateral cephalometric radiographs were used to compare the groups: Caucasian (n = 40), Japanese-Brazilian (n = 32) and Mongoloid (n = 33). The statistical tests used were one-way ANOVA and ANCOVA. The cephalometric measurements used followed the analyses of Steiner, Tweed and McNamara Jr.

RESULTS

Statistical differences (P < 0.05) indicated a smaller interincisal angle and overbite for the Japanese-Brazilian sample, when compared to the Caucasian sample, although with similar values to the Mongoloid group.

CONCLUSION

The dental patterns found for the Japanese-Brazilian descendants were, in general, more similar to those of the Mongoloid sample.

Analysis of the reproducibility of the gray values and noise of a direct digital radiography system

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility of the gray values and noise of a direct digital radiography system (Visualix eHD) for various exposure times and analyzed regions. To obtain radiographic images in a standardized manner, the digital sensor of the system and a stepwedge were positioned in a phantom at a focus-film distance of 30 cm in a dental device at 70 kV, 7 mA and 2.2 mm filtration. Ten consecutive repetitions of X-ray imaging were performed at each exposure time (0.05, 0.07, 0.09 and 0.13 s). Gray values were analyzed using ImageJ software in five regions of interest (ROIs): alveolar bone (AB), soft tissue (ST) and three steps of the stepwedge (S1, S2 and S3). The results showed that both the variability of the gray values and the noise were statistically greater (p < 0.05) in the most radiolucent region (ST). Only the noise was affected by the exposure time. In conclusion, the reproducibility of the gray values and the noise of the Visualix eHD system can vary in specific areas with different radiolucency.

Comparative study of the soft tissue of young Japanese-Brazilian, Caucasian and Mongoloid patients

OBJECTIVE

To determine the normality mean values in the soft tissue cephalometric measurements of young Japanese-Brazilian, with normal occlusion and to compare the results of the variables with compatible samples of young Caucasians and Mongoloids.

METHODS

Forty radiographs of young Caucasians, 32 of Japanese-Brazilians and 33 of Mongoloids were used. The three samples presented individuals with normal occlusion and well-balanced face. The samples were divided by gender due to the soft tissue characteristics and to facilitate comparison. The following statistical tests were performed: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with p < 0.05.

RESULTS

The Japanese-Brazilian sample of females showed thinner soft tissues in the nasion region and smaller nose when compared to the Caucasians. The Mongoloid sample showed thinner tissues in the supramentonian and pogonion regions. In males, the Japanese-Brazilians had thinner tissues in the nasion region; thicker lower lip and supramentonian region in comparison to the Caucasian sample. For the Mongoloid, soft tissue was thicker in the glabella and ANS-Sn regions.

CONCLUSIONS

It is necessary to use specific soft tissue standards for this mixed race.

Comparison between 3D volumetric rendering and multiplanar slices on the reliability of linear measurements on CBCT images: an in vitro study

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy and reliability of two methods of measurements of linear distances (multiplanar 2D and tridimensional reconstruction 3D) obtained from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) with different voxel sizes.

Material and Methods

Ten dry human mandibles were scanned at voxel sizes of 0.2 and 0.4 mm. Craniometric anatomical landmarks were identified twice by two independent operators on the multiplanar reconstructed and on volume rendering images that were generated by the software Dolphin^®. Subsequently, physical measurements were performed using a digital caliper. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman were used for evaluating accuracy and reliability (p<0.05).

Results

Excellent intraobserver reliability and good to high precision interobserver reliability values were found for linear measurements from CBCT 3D and multiplanar images. Measurements performed on multiplanar reconstructed images were more accurate than measurements in volume rendering compared with the gold standard. No statistically significant difference was found between voxel protocols, independently of the measurement method.

Conclusions

Linear measurements on multiplanar images of 0.2 and 0.4 voxel are reliable and accurate when compared with direct caliper measurements. Caution should be taken in the volume rendering measurements, because the measurements were reliable, but not accurate for all variables. An increased voxel resolution did not result in greater accuracy of mandible measurements and would potentially provide increased patient radiation exposure.

Comparison of manual, digital and lateral CBCT cephalometric analyses

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare the reliability of three different methods of cephalometric analysis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Conventional pretreatment lateral cephalograms and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans from 50 subjects from a radiological clinic were selected in order to test the three methods: manual tracings (MT), digitized lateral cephalograms (DLC), and lateral cephalograms from CBCT (LC-CBCT). The lateral cephalograms were manually analyzed through the Dolphin Imaging 11.0™ software. Twenty measurements were performed under the same conditions, and retraced after a 30-day period. Paired t tests and the Dahlberg formula were used to evaluate the intra-examiner errors. The Pearson's correlation coefficient and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests were used to compare the differences between the methods.

RESULTS

Intra-examiner reliability occurred for all methods for most of the measurements. Only six measurements were different between the methods and an agreement was observed in the analyses among the 3 methods.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrated that all evaluated methodologies are reliable and valid for scientific research, however, the method used in the lateral cephalograms from the CBCT proved the most reliable.

Comparison of mesiodistal tooth widths in Caucasian, African and Japanese individuals with Brazilian ancestry and normal occlusion

OBJECTIVE: To observe the presence of sexual dimorphism and compare the mesiodistal width of the teeth in Caucasian, African and Japanese individuals with Brazilian ancestry not orthodontically treated and with normal occlusion. METHODS: One hundred pairs of dental casts were used. It was measured, from first molar to first molar in both arches, the teeth's mesiodistal widths, using a digital caliper. For the statistical analysis of results Kolmogorov-Smirnov, t test, ANOVA and Tukey's test (p < 0.05) were used. RESULTS: Sexual dimorphism occurred on the three evaluated groups, and the highest mesiodistal widths were found in males. There was statistically significant difference between racial groups in all evaluated teeth in males. However, in females, this same difference was found only on upper lateral incisor and first molar; and lower lateral incisor, canine, first premolar and first molar. CONCLUSION: Most of mesiodistal measures present particular characteristics in relation to gender, with higher values for males, and to race, with a tendency for African to present greater mesiodistal distance of the teeth, followed by Japanese and Caucasians, respectively, important for the correct diagnosis and orthodontic planning.

Correction of Class II malocclusion with Class II elastics: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Although Class II elastics have been widely used in the correction of Class II malocclusions, there is still a belief that their side effects override the intended objectives. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the true effects of Class II elastics in Class II malocclusion treatment.

METHODS

A search was performed on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Medline, and Cochrane databases, complemented by a hand search. Study eligibility criteria were the application of Class II elastics in Class II malocclusion treatment and the presentation of dental or skeletal outcomes of treatment. All age groups were included.

RESULTS

The search identified 417 articles, of which 11 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Four studied the isolated effects of Class II elastics, and 7 were comparisons between a single use of elastics and another method for Class II malocclusion correction. Because of the differences in treatment modalities in these articles, a meta-analysis was not possible.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the current literature, we can state that Class II elastics are effective in correcting Class II malocclusions, and their effects are primarily dentoalveolar. Therefore, they are similar to the effects of fixed functional appliances in the long term, placing these 2 methods close to each other when evaluating treatment effectiveness. Little attention has been given to the effects of Class II elastics on the soft tissues in Class II malocclusion treatment.

Influence of orthodontic treatment, midline position, buccal corridor and smile arc on smile attractiveness

OBJECTIVE

To assess the scientific evidence of the influence of some variables on smile attractiveness: orthodontic treatment, midline position, axial midline angulation, buccal corridor, and smile arc.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature was searched through PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and All EBM Reviews. The inclusion criteria consisted of studies written in English; published in the past three decades; concerning the influence of orthodontic treatment, midline position, axial midline angulation, buccal corridor, and smile arc on smile esthetics; and judged by a minimum of 10 raters. Quality features evaluated were adequate description of samples, absence of confounding factors, and description of methods used to evaluate the smiles and statistical analyses.

RESULTS

Initially, 203 articles were retrieved. Of these, 20 abstracts met the initial inclusion criteria and were selected. Thirteen articles were classified as high quality, seven as average, and none as low quality.

CONCLUSION

Four-premolar extraction or nonextraction treatment protocols seem to have no predictable effect on overall smile esthetics, meaning that if well indicated, extraction in orthodontics does not necessarily have a deleterious effect on facial esthetics. The selected articles recommend that a small dental midline deviation of 2.2 mm can be considered acceptable by both orthodontists and laypeople, whereas an axial midline angulation of 10° (2 mm measured from the midline papilla and the incisal edges of the incisors) is already very apparent, and considering studies dealing with real smiles, buccal corridor sizes and smile arc alone do not seem to affect smile attractiveness.