Elias Kontogiorgos

Fracture resistance of compromised endodontically treated teeth restored with bonded post and cores: An in vitro study

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM It is unclear which post and core system performs best when bonded to severely compromised endodontically treated teeth. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate the fracture resistance and mode of failure of severely compromised teeth restored with 3 different adhesively bonded post and core systems. MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirty extracted endodontically treated maxillary anterior teeth were randomly divided into 3 groups, CPC, gold cast post and core; TPC, titanium prefabricated post/composite resin core; and FPC, quartz fiber reinforced post/composite resin core. All posts were adhesively cemented. All cores resembled a central incisor preparation with no remaining tooth structure above the finish line. Cast gold crowns were fabricated and cemented adhesively. The specimens were aged with thermocycling and cyclic loading. Two specimens per group were randomly selected for micro-computed tomographic imaging before and after aging. Failure was induced with a universal testing machine. The mode of failure was characterized by the interface separation. Data were analyzed with 1-way ANOVA (α=.05) followed by post hoc tests (Bonferroni). RESULTS A statistically significant difference was found among the 3 groups (P=.002). CPC was significantly different than TPC (P=.008) or FPC (P=.003). The primary mode of failure for CPC and TPC was root fracture, and for FPC post debonding. CONCLUSIONS Severely compromised endodontically treated teeth restored with bonded gold cast post and cores showed significantly higher fracture resistance.

Effect of force on alveolar bone surrounding miniscrew implants: a 3-dimensional microcomputed tomography study.

INTRODUCTION The primary aim of this study was to better understand how bone adapts to forces applied to miniscrew implants. A secondary aim was to determine whether the direction of force applied to miniscrew implants has an effect on bone surrounding the miniscrew implants. METHODS A randomized split-mouth design, applied to 6 skeletally mature male foxhound dogs, was used to compare miniscrew implants loaded for 9 weeks with 200 or 600 g to unloaded control miniscrew implants. By using microcomputed tomography, with an isotropic resolution of 6 μm, bone volume fractions (bone volume/total volume) were calculated for bone around the entire miniscrew implant surface. Bone volume fractions were calculated for bone 6 to 24, 24 to 42, and 42 to 60 μm from the miniscrew implant surface. For each loaded miniscrew implant, the bone volume fraction was also calculated for 2 compression and 2 noncompression zones. RESULTS The 6 to 24-μm layer showed a significantly lower (P <0.05) bone volume fraction than did the 24 to 42-μm and the 42 to 60-μm layers, which were not significantly different. The bone volume fractions of cortical bone surrounding the apical aspects of the unloaded miniscrew implants were significantly greater (P <0.05) than the bone volume fractions of cortical bone surrounding the loaded miniscrew implants. In contrast, the bone volume fractions of noncortical bone surrounding loaded miniscrew implants were significantly greater (P <0.05) than the bone volume fractions of bone surrounding the unloaded miniscrew implants. Miniscrew implants loaded with 200 g showed significantly greater (P <0.05) amounts of noncortical bone volume fractions than did miniscrew implants loaded with 600 g. With both 200 and 600 g, zones under compression had significantly greater bone volume fractions than did the noncompression zones. CONCLUSIONS The application of force, the amount of force applied, and the direction of force all have significant effects on the amounts of bone produced around miniscrew implants.

Reduction in Dental Hypersensitivity with Nano-Hydroxyapatite, Potassium Nitrate, Sodium Monoflurophosphate and Antioxidants #

Objective: This clinical study aimed to evaluate effectiveness of a commercially available toothpaste containing potassium nitrate, sodium monoflurophosphate, and nano-hydroxyapatite as well as antioxidants phloretin, ferulic acid and silymarin in reducing dental hypersensitivity in adults. Methods: The clinical trial enrolled patients with a history of dentin hypersensitivity. A test toothpaste was introduced into the daily routine, which included initial instruction on usage. Patients completed a five-question visual analog scale (VAS) at the inception/baseline, after two days and after two weeks of using the toothpaste to determine their level of tooth sensitivity at baseline with the use of the toothpaste over time. Results: Patients that had significant sensitivity at baseline had a range of 52% to 76 % improvement after 48 hours and a range of 70% to 84% improvement after two weeks. Conclusion: A toothpaste containing potassium nitrate, sodium monoflurophosphate, and nano-hydroxyapatite plus antioxidants phloretin, ferulic acid and silymarin applied daily significantly decreased tooth pain of dentin hypersensitivity within a two-day and two-week time period. Clinical Significance: Based on the clinical study results, a daily application of a toothpaste containing potassium nitrate, sodium monofluorophosphate, and nano-hydroxyapatite plus antioxidants phloretin, ferulic acid and silymarin can significantly and quickly reduce tooth pain of dentin hypersensitivity.

Elastic Properties of Chimpanzee Craniofacial Cortical Bone

Relatively few assessments of cranial biomechanics formally take into account variation in the material properties of cranial cortical bone. Our aim was to characterize the elastic properties of chimpanzee craniofacial cortical bone and compare these to the elastic properties of dentate human craniofacial cortical bone. From seven cranial regions, 27 cylindrical samples were harvested from each of five chimpanzee crania. Assuming orthotropy, axes of maximum stiffness in the plane of the cortical plate were derived using modified equations of Hookes law in a Mathcad program. Consistent orientations among individuals were observed in the zygomatic arch and alveolus. The density of cortical bone showed significant regional variation (P < 0.001). The elastic moduli demonstrated significant differences between sites, and a distinct pattern where E3 > E2 > E1. Shear moduli were significantly different among regions (P < 0.001). The pattern by which chimpanzee cranial cortical bone varies in elastic properties resembled that seen in humans, perhaps suggesting that the elastic properties of craniofacial bone in fossil hominins can be estimated with at least some degree of confidence. Anat Rec, 299:1718–1733, 2016.

Biomechanical characteristics of regenerated cortical bone in the canine mandible

To test the mechanical properties of regenerate cortical bone created using mandibular bone transport (MBT) distraction, five adult male American foxhound dogs underwent unilateral distraction of the mandible with a novel MBT device placed to linearly repair a 30–35 mm bone defect. The animals were sacrificed 12 weeks after the beginning of the consolidation period. Fourteen cylindrical specimens were taken from the inner (lingual) and outer (buccal) plates of the reconstructed mandible and 21 control specimens were removed from the contralateral aspect of the mandible. The mechanical properties of the 35 cylindrical cortical bone specimens were assessed by using a non‐destructive pulse ultrasound technique. Results showed that all of the cortical mechanical properties exhibit higher numerical values on the control side than the MBT regenerate side. In addition, both densities and the elastic moduli in the direction of maximum stiffness of the regenerate cortical bone specimens are higher on the lingual side than the buccal side. Interestingly, there is no statistical difference between elastic modulus (E1 and E2) in orthogonal directions throughout the 35 cortical specimens. The data suggest that not only is the regenerate canine cortical bone heterogeneous, but the elastic mechanical properties tend to approximate transverse isotropy at a tissue level, as opposed to control cortical bone, which is orthotropic. In addition, the elastic mechanical properties are higher not only on the control side but also in the lingual anatomical position, suggesting a stress shielding effect from the presence of the reconstruction plate. Copyright

The Role of Occlusion in the Dental Implant and Peri-implant Condition: A Review

Dental implants have become a widely used dental treatment approach. It is important to identify factors that can be detrimental to dental implants and the peri-implant complex. There is controversy regarding whether occlusion plays a role in the implant and peri-implant condition. The present study aims to review the scientific literature regarding this topic. Animal and human studies, and previous reviews on the topic are included and presented. There is a wide heterogeneity among study designs. Several articles demonstrated that occlusion and occlusion overload could detrimentally affect the peri-implant condition, while other articles did not support these results. More studies are needed to help understand the mechanisms by which occlusion might play a role in the peri-implant condition.

Evaluation of a topical gel containing a novel combination of essential oils and antioxidants for reducing oral malodor in dogs

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of a topically applied gel containing essential oils (menthol and thymol) and polyphenolic antioxidants (phloretin and ferulic acid) for reducing halitosis in dogs. ANIMALS 20 dogs. PROCEDURES A blinded crossover clinical trial was conducted. Dogs received a dental cleaning and examination (periodontal examination including periodontal probing and assessments of plaque, calculus, and gingivitis). Owners then applied a gel (active or placebo) to oral soft tissues twice daily for a 4-week period. Teeth of the dogs were cleaned again, and owners applied the other gel for a 4-week period. Clinicians scored halitosis immediately after the initial cleaning and at 4 and 8 weeks, and owners scored halitosis weekly. RESULTS Halitosis assessment by clinicians revealed that both groups had improvement in halitosis scores. Two dogs were removed because of owner noncompliance. In the active-to-placebo group (n = 9), halitosis was significantly reduced during application of the active gel but increased during application of the placebo. Seven of 9 owners reported increased halitosis when treatment was changed from the active gel to the placebo. In the placebo-to-active group (n = 9), halitosis decreased during application of the placebo and continued to decrease during application of the active gel. Seven of 9 owners reported a decrease in halitosis with the active gel. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE An oral topically applied gel with essential oils and polyphenolic antioxidants applied daily after an initial professional dental cleaning decreased oral malodor in dogs.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: A Case Report with Premature Teeth Exfoliation and Bone Resorption

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder characterized by insufficient production of cortisol. The aim of this case report was to present a child with CAH, premature exfoliation of primary teeth and accelerated eruption of his permanent teeth related to bone resorption. A 4.5-year-old Caucasian boy with CAH and long-term administration of glucocorticoids was referred for dental restoration. Clinical examination revealed primary molars with worn stainless steel crowns, severe attrition of the upper canines, and absence of the upper incisors. Before the completion of treatment, abnormal mobility of the first upper primary molars and the lower incisors was detected, and a few days later the teeth exfoliated prematurely. Histologic examination revealed normal tooth structure. Alkaline phosphatase and blood cells values were normal. Eruption of the permanent dentition was also accelerated. Tooth mobility was noticed in the permanent teeth as soon as they erupted, along with bone destruction. Examination revealed an elevated level of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand and lower-than-normal osteoprotegerin and vitamin D levels. The patient was treated with vitamin D supplements, and his teeth have been stable ever since. CAH is a serious chronic disorder appearing in children with accelerated dental development and possibly premature loss of primary teeth.

Osseointegration of dental implants placed into canine mandibular bone regenerated by bone transport distraction osteogenesis.

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to compare the osseointegration of dental implants placed in canine mandibular bone and in regenerated bone produced by bone transport distraction osteogenesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten adult foxhounds were divided into two groups of five animals each. In all animals, a 40-mm defect was created on one side of the mandible. A bone transport reconstruction plate was used to stabilize the mandible and regenerate bone. Six weeks after the distraction period was finished, dental implants were placed in regenerated and native mandibular bone. The animals were sacrificed after another 6 and 12 weeks of healing, respectively. RESULTS Microcomputed tomographic evaluation showed that bone volume fraction (BV/TV) was greater at the coronal regions of the implants and decreased toward the apical regions. There was an increase in BV/TV around implants placed in regenerated bone from 6 to 12 weeks of healing. The regenerated group showed lower BV/TV at 6 weeks versus implants placed in native bone but had reached the same levels as the native bone at 12 weeks. Histology showed that direct bone-to-implant contact was greater for implants placed in native bone than for those placed in regenerated bone for both time periods. The removal torque of the implants placed in native bone was higher at 6 weeks than that of implants placed in regenerated bone. At 12 weeks, there were no statistically significant differences in removal torque between the groups. CONCLUSIONS Bone was successfully regenerated in all animals. The implants placed entirely in regenerated bone were osseointegrated. The regenerated bone around the implants became denser over time. This finding suggests that implants placed entirely in regenerated bone will be as well integrated as implants in native mandibular bone by 12 weeks after placement.

Preclinical Evaluation of a Crown-Splinted Custom Root-Shaped Implant

OBJECTIVE To test whether a Maryland bridge-type splint provides adequate stability for a custom root-shaped implant to osseointegrate in a manner substantially equivalent to that of a threaded implant. METHODS Six beagle dogs were subjected to intraoral impressions and cone beam scans that were used to fabricate custom root-shaped implants (RTIs) and crowns. Premolars in the mandible (P4) and in the maxilla (P3) were extracted, and 24 RTIs were immediately placed in extraction sockets. Splint extensions of the crowns were bonded to mesial and distal teeth. Twelve mandibular molars (M2) were extracted, and threaded implants (DXI), serving as controls, were placed immediately. Animals were placed on a soft diet after surgery. Weekly intraoral photographs and radiographs were taken, and animals were sacrificed at 4 months. Fluorescent labels were injected 35, 21, and 7 days before sacrifice. Clinical implant stability and vertical pullout forces were tested, and loss of vertical bone height was measured on radiographs. Histomorphometric measurements of percent bone-to-implant contact (BIC) and mineral apposition rates were made from undecalcified sections. RESULTS Three RTI splints broke or debonded, and the implants were removed. No loss of DXI implants was noted. All remaining implants were clinically stable. Mean pullout forces were 366.7 ± 182.8 N for RTI (no pullout data for the threaded DXI). Mean vertical bone loss was 0.4 ± 0.6 mm mesially and 0.2 ± 0.7 mm distally for RTI and 0.8 ± 1.1 mm mesially and 0.8 ± 1.0 mm distally for DXI, with no significant differences between groups. BIC values were 70.8% ± 12.7% for mandibular RTI, 68.3% ± 11.6% for maxillary RTI, and 78.8% ± 5.5% for DXI. Mineral apposition rates within local osteons were 1.9 ± 0.5 μm for RTI and 1.7 ± 0.3 μm for DXI; at the implant surface, they were 2.5 ± 1.2 μm for RTI and 3.3 ± 1.8 μm for DXI, with no significant differences between groups. CONCLUSION All RTIs with intact splints exhibited clinically successful integration, similar to that of control threaded implants. The RTI may be a viable option for single-tooth replacement.