Advanced Diagnosis and Treatment Plan for Orthodontic and Oro-Facial Rehabilitations

A special issue of Diagnostics (ISSN 2075-4418). This special issue belongs to the section "Medical Imaging and Theranostics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 May 2025 | Viewed by 10996

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, School of Dentistry, Unit of Orthodontics, University of Catania, 95131 Catania, Italy
Interests: 3D imaging; CBCT; digital anatomical segmentation; facial scan; intraoral scan; cephalometry; craniofacial development imaging; CAD-CAM; diagnostic digital workflow; RMI; functional orthodontic appliances; dentofacial orthopedics; interceptive orthodontics; elastodontics
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The continuous investigation into dental technology has significantly impacted the traditional clinical workflow related to the diagnosis and formulation of treatment strategies. In this context, recently developed technologies and equipment have been introduced to enhance the diagnostic process, especially in the fields of orthodontics and oro-facial rehabilitation. The present Special Issue has been tailored to address in vivo and ex vivo studies proposing and assessing innovative technologies supporting the diagnosis and treatment plan strategies for orthodontic and oral rehabilitation treatments. This encompasses digital equipment, CAD/CAM technologies, robotics, artificial intelligence, intraoral and facial scans, and modern radiology, designed for functional and aesthetic facial and dental rehabilitations. We invite interventional studies that seek to advance current knowledge on novel techniques and advances in orthodontics. Studies employing innovative approaches or presenting new information will receive higher priority. Reviews, including those utilizing conceptual frameworks related to any of the aforementioned topics, are also highly encouraged.

Dr. Antonino Lo Giudice
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • CBCT
  • facial scan
  • oral imaging
  • orthodontics
  • digital dentistry

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Published Papers (13 papers)

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13 pages, 1831 KiB  
Article
Prevalence, Occurrence, and Characteristics of Supernumerary Teeth Among the Saudi Arabian Population Using Panoramic Radiographs
by Sreekanth Kumar Mallineni, Sami Aldhuwayhi, Yahya Deeban, Khalid Saud Almutairi, Sultan Nawasir Alhabrdi, Mohammad Abdulaziz Almidaj, Bader Abdullah Alrumi, Abdurrahman Salman Assalman, Angel Mary Joseph, Amar Ashok Thakare and Mohammed Ziauddeen Mustafa
Diagnostics 2024, 14(22), 2542; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14222542 - 13 Nov 2024
Viewed by 407
Abstract
Background: Supernumerary teeth numerical anomalies and the early diagnosis of supernumerary teeth is very important to avoid potential complications. The study aim was to determine the prevalence, occurrence, and characteristics of supernumerary teeth among the Arabian population. Methods: A retrospective radiographic study was [...] Read more.
Background: Supernumerary teeth numerical anomalies and the early diagnosis of supernumerary teeth is very important to avoid potential complications. The study aim was to determine the prevalence, occurrence, and characteristics of supernumerary teeth among the Arabian population. Methods: A retrospective radiographic study was performed using panoramic radiographs of patients attending a teaching hospital from January 2018 to December 2020. Only healthy patients with clear radiographs were included in the study, and patients with syndromes, cleft lip, and palate, and unclear radiographs were excluded from the study. The details include the patient’s age and gender, supernumerary tooth number, location, orientation, and position. Only a single examiner was involved in the data collection and analysis. Results: Overall, 38 (2%) patients were observed with 47 supernumerary teeth. Among them, 76% were males and 24% were females, with a mean age of 16.1 ± 9.7 years. Mesiodens (87%) are the common type of supernumerary tooth, and the majority of the supernumerary teeth were impacted (66%). The majority of the patients presented with a single supernumerary tooth, while 24% of the patients presented with two supernumerary teeth. Sixty percent of the supernumerary teeth were conical in morphology, followed by a tuberculate morphology. In the study population, most of the supernumerary teeth were normal in orientation. Conclusions: The prevalence of supernumerary teeth was 2%. Among them, the majority were observed at the anterior region of the maxillary arch with a conical shape of normal orientation. The gender-based comparison of location, orientation, morphology, eruption, and number of supernumerary teeth showed male predilection. Full article
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14 pages, 4665 KiB  
Article
Molar Incisor Hypomineralization: Etiology, Correlation with Tooth Number Anomalies and Implications for Comprehensive Management Strategies in Children from Transylvania
by Laura-Roxana Contac, Silvia Izabella Pop, Septimiu Voidazan and Cristina Ioana Bica
Diagnostics 2024, 14(21), 2370; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14212370 - 24 Oct 2024
Viewed by 627
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study investigates the etiology of enamel developmental defects, specifically Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH), and explores correlations between MIH and dental anomalies such as hypodontia to improve interdisciplinary restorative and orthodontic treatments. Additionally, it assesses the influence of stress factors on the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study investigates the etiology of enamel developmental defects, specifically Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH), and explores correlations between MIH and dental anomalies such as hypodontia to improve interdisciplinary restorative and orthodontic treatments. Additionally, it assesses the influence of stress factors on the development of enamel defects. Methods: Conducted from July to September 2024, this study involved 57 patients aged 6 to 11 from an urban setting, divided into two groups: 32 with MIH and 25 controls, selected based on criteria of mixed dentition without systemic pathology or chronic medication. Clinical evaluations, including intraoral photographs and panoramic radiographs, were performed alongside a detailed questionnaire addressed to the mothers covering prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal factors. Results: The average age of children with MIH was 7.5 years, in contrast to 7.04 years in the control group (p = 0.17). Significant differences were noted in maternal age, with MIH mothers older (35.56 years) than controls (29.36, p = 0.0001). The prevalence of MIH was higher in boys (66.7%) compared to girls (38.1%, p = 0.036). Factors such as prolonged labor, medication during birth, and early postnatal medication were significantly linked to MIH. The study shows a strong correlation with hypodontia, with a significantly higher incidence of tooth number anomalies (p = 0.009) in the study group. Conclusions: Overall, the study emphasizes the association of MIH with various maternal and birth-related factors and with hypodontia, highlighting the need for a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment. Further research is recommended to investigate the relationship between stress factors and MIH. Full article
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10 pages, 1172 KiB  
Article
Predicting Mandibular Growth Potential Based on Cervical Vertebral Bone Age Using Lateral Cephalometric Radiographs in a Sample of the Saudi Population
by Guna Shekhar Madiraju and Yousef Majed Almugla
Diagnostics 2024, 14(19), 2145; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14192145 - 26 Sep 2024
Viewed by 437
Abstract
Background: This study estimated the predictive accuracy of the mandibular growth potential based on cervical vertebral bone age using digital lateral cephalograms in a sample of the Saudi population. Methods: This study included digital lateral cephalograms of eighty subjects aged 10–21 years divided [...] Read more.
Background: This study estimated the predictive accuracy of the mandibular growth potential based on cervical vertebral bone age using digital lateral cephalograms in a sample of the Saudi population. Methods: This study included digital lateral cephalograms of eighty subjects aged 10–21 years divided into adult and young groups. Cervical vertebral age was calculated by tracing and measuring the third and fourth cervical vertebrae on lateral cephalograms, and the mandibular growth potential was estimated using the Mito et al. regression equation. The accuracy of the calculated CVB age was verified via comparison with the chronological age. The data analyses included independent sample t-tests for testing the differences in mean values and Pearson correlation coefficients to examine the relationship between dependent and independent variables. Results: A significant difference was noted between the mean cervical vertebral age and chronological age in the young group for both males (p = 0.0003) and females (p = 0.033). The correlation coefficient between cervical vertebral age and chronological age in the young male group was higher (r = 0.934) than that in the young females (r = 0.254). Conclusions: The mandibular growth potential prediction based on CVB age using the regression equation of Mito et al. was applicable only to the young Saudi males. Further studies are needed to develop new multiple regression models to obtain cervical vertebral age more accurately for both genders in the Saudi population. Full article
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8 pages, 612 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Trabecular Bone Microstructure Surrounding Impacted Maxillary Canines Using Fractal Analysis on Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Images
by Ezgi Sunal Akturk, Ahsen Irem Toktas, Erkay Can, Ezgi Kosen and Irfan Sarica
Diagnostics 2024, 14(19), 2143; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14192143 - 26 Sep 2024
Viewed by 411
Abstract
Objectives: To assess the impact of the presence or position (buccal/palatal) of impacted canines on trabecular bone density using fractal analysis (FA) on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images, and to compare the results with a control group without impacted canines. Methods: This retrospective [...] Read more.
Objectives: To assess the impact of the presence or position (buccal/palatal) of impacted canines on trabecular bone density using fractal analysis (FA) on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images, and to compare the results with a control group without impacted canines. Methods: This retrospective study included 41 patients with unilateral impacted canines (30 palatal, 11 buccal) and a control group of 39 patients who underwent surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion. All patients had CBCT images recorded for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Cross-sectional CBCT images were obtained between the first and second premolars on both sides of the patients’ maxilla. From these images, fractal dimension (FD) was measured in a 20 × 20 pixel region of interest in the trabecular bone using the ImageJ software. Results: The FD values were significantly higher on the impacted side in the impacted canine group (p = 0.02). Within the impacted canine group, a significant increase in FD was observed on the impacted side in the buccal-impacted subgroup (p = 0.02), while no significant difference was observed in the palatal-impacted subgroup (p > 0.05). Conclusions: According to the results of our study, there is an association between the position of the impacted canine and trabecular bone density. An increased trabecular bone density may play a role in the etiology of buccally impacted canines. Clinicians should consider anchorage planning, and appropriate force level, during the forced eruption of buccally impacted canines with high surrounding bone density, to minimize undesirable movements and achieve optimal treatment outcomes. Full article
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12 pages, 2751 KiB  
Article
The Efficacy of Diagnostic Plaster Models in Orthodontic Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
by Abdullazez Almudhi, Iman Almohammad, Sara Alswayyed, Elzahraa Eldwakhly and Sarah Almugairin
Diagnostics 2024, 14(19), 2124; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14192124 - 25 Sep 2024
Viewed by 529
Abstract
Background: The growing integration of digital technologies in orthodontics is shifting the orthodontic diagnosis and recordkeeping paradigm, replacing conventional plaster models with intraoral scanning and 3D photography. This study investigated the impact of orthodontic plaster models on orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning decisions [...] Read more.
Background: The growing integration of digital technologies in orthodontics is shifting the orthodontic diagnosis and recordkeeping paradigm, replacing conventional plaster models with intraoral scanning and 3D photography. This study investigated the impact of orthodontic plaster models on orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning decisions by orthodontists. Methods: Thirty-three orthodontists assessed six patients’ records with different malocclusion cases. Each case was assessed twice by each orthodontist evaluating a case: the first evaluation with digital records without diagnostic casts and the second evaluation with the added diagnostic orthodontic plaster model. Diagnostic and treatment plan decisions for each malocclusion case were compared with and without the aid of the diagnostic orthodontic plaster models to assess the plaster model’s impact on the treatment plan’s soundness. Results: Statistically insignificant differences were found for the diagnoses and treatment plans with or without the aid of orthodontic plaster models. Intraclass correlation coefficients revealed agreement among orthodontists for both evaluated situations (0.685; p < 0.0001). Plaster models were found to significantly influence orthodontists’ decisions about the need for surgical intervention (p = 0.026), but they did not significantly impact the overall malocclusion diagnostic classification nor the decision regarding the extent of treatment, whether comprehensive or limited (p = 0.146) and extraction versus non-extraction approaches (p = 0.266). Conclusions: These findings support the idea that digital record alternatives may be viable for orthodontic recordkeeping purposes. Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that the presence or absence of orthodontic plaster models does not significantly impact the orthodontic diagnosis or treatment planning process. Full article
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12 pages, 1355 KiB  
Article
CBCT Evaluation of Alveolar Bone Change and Root Resorption after Orthodontic Treatment: A Retrospective Study
by Silvia Izabella Pop, Diana Cerghizan, Loredana Mițariu, Kinga Mária Jánosi and Antonella D’Andrea
Diagnostics 2024, 14(16), 1757; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14161757 - 13 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1337
Abstract
Background: For years, there has been a long debate about the impact of orthodontic treatment on the periodontium of patients. Therefore, it is important to understand the effects of orthodontic forces on the periodontium. The objective of this study was to evaluate the [...] Read more.
Background: For years, there has been a long debate about the impact of orthodontic treatment on the periodontium of patients. Therefore, it is important to understand the effects of orthodontic forces on the periodontium. The objective of this study was to evaluate the height of the alveolar bone at the four surfaces of specific teeth and the root length of the central incisors before and after orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: CBCTs from a group of fifty patients were evaluated before (T0) and after orthodontic treatment (T1). Evaluations of the alveolar bone were performed by measuring the distance from the most apical point of the marginal portion to the CEJ at the buccal (B-ABL), lingual (L-ABL), mesial (M-ABL), and distal (D-ABL) surfaces of the central incisor (CI), first premolar (1st PM), and first molar (1st M). Meanwhile, root resorptions were evaluated by measuring the distance from the center of the tooth at the CEJ to the most apical point of the central incisor. Results: The reduction in the alveolar bone level was highest at the buccal segment (75%) and lowest at the distal (42%) segment, although the decrease was not statistically significant. Root resorption, in terms of reduction in the total length, was detected in the upper central incisor. Conclusions: Fixed orthodontic treatment can produce a significant reduction in root length, but not at the level of the alveolar bone. Full article
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11 pages, 887 KiB  
Article
Effect of Fixed and Removable Functional Therapy on Mandibular Anterior Bone Structures: A Fractal Analysis Study
by Orhan Cicek and Deniz Arslan
Diagnostics 2024, 14(16), 1713; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14161713 - 7 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1070
Abstract
(1) Background and aim: The effects of functional therapies on dentoalveolar and skeletal structures have been investigated in orthodontics for many years. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the changes caused by fixed and removable functional therapy in the mandibular [...] Read more.
(1) Background and aim: The effects of functional therapies on dentoalveolar and skeletal structures have been investigated in orthodontics for many years. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the changes caused by fixed and removable functional therapy in the mandibular anterior trabecular structures using fractal dimension (FD) analysis. (2) Methods: A total of 60 patients with skeletal and dental class II malocclusion were included in the study and three groups were formed: the untreated control group (CG), the Forsus fatigue-resistant device group (FFRDG), and the Monoblock group (MBG). Bone areas of interest determined in the buccoapical of the mandibular incisors and the symphysis in the lateral cephalometric radiographs taken before (T0) and after (T1) functional therapy were evaluated using FD analysis. The relationship between the FD and IMPA (Incisor Mandibular Plane Angle) angles was evaluated. Parametric and nonparametric tests were used in statistical analysis according to normality distribution. The statistical significance level was determined as p < 0.05. (3) Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the FD values of all groups at T0 (p > 0.05). At T1, buccoapical FD values were significantly lower in FFRDG and MBG compared to the control group (p < 0.05), while symphyseal FD values were not found to be significant (p > 0.05). The IMPA angle was significantly lower in the FFRDG and MBG than in the control group at T0, while it was higher at T1 (p < 0.05). While a significant negative correlation was observed between the IMPA angle and buccoapical FD values in both FFRDG and MBG (p < 0.05), it was not observed with the symphysis FD values (p > 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Trabecular changes caused by functional therapy in the mandibular anterior bone can be evaluated on lateral cephalometric radiographs with FD analysis. It was concluded that orthodontists should ensure controlled changes in the IMPA angle during functional therapy, especially for the decreases in FDs seen in the buccoapical alveolar region due to the forward movement of the mandibular incisors. Full article
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12 pages, 2137 KiB  
Article
Prevalence and Patterns of Positional Dental Anomalies in First Permanent Molars: Insights from a Study in Oradea, Romania
by Rahela Tabita Moca, Abel Emanuel Moca, Raluca Iulia Juncar, Luminița Ligia Vaida, Anna-Maria Janosy and Mihai Juncar
Diagnostics 2024, 14(13), 1460; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14131460 - 8 Jul 2024
Viewed by 836
Abstract
Tooth position anomalies, influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, can significantly impact oral health and play a critical role in establishing proper occlusion. The aim of this study was to identify the most prevalent tooth position anomalies in first permanent molars among [...] Read more.
Tooth position anomalies, influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, can significantly impact oral health and play a critical role in establishing proper occlusion. The aim of this study was to identify the most prevalent tooth position anomalies in first permanent molars among Romanian patients and to evaluate additional variables as well. This retrospective study utilized digital study models to identify all existing tooth position anomalies. The study included patients aged 12 to 40 years with complete permanent dentition. Axial changes (buccal tilting, oral tilting, mesial tilting, and distal tilting) as well as rotational changes (mesio-buccal rotation and disto-buccal rotation) were investigated. After applying the exclusion criteria, 103 patients remained in the study. Our findings revealed a notable prevalence of positional anomalies, with disto-buccal rotations being most common in upper molars (tooth 1.6–22.3%, tooth 2.6–31.1%) and oral tilting predominating in lower molars (tooth 3.6–6.8%, tooth 4.6–14.6%). Interestingly, neither gender nor malocclusion type significantly influenced the occurrence of tooth position anomalies. Symmetrical patterns in positional changes were observed, with patients having tooth position anomalies at 1.6 significantly more frequently associated with anomalies at 2.6. Similarly, anomalies at 3.6 were significantly more frequently associated with anomalies at 4.6. Additionally, for molars 2.6 and 3.6 on the left side, the differences were statistically significant, with patients having anomalies at 2.6 significantly more frequently associated with anomalies at 3.6. This pattern was not observed for the molars situated on the right side of the dental arches. While this study provides insights into positional anomalies in first permanent molars among the Romanian population, its retrospective design and focus on a specific demographic may limit generalizability. In conclusion, the study underscores the significant prevalence of positional anomalies in first permanent molars among adolescents and adults in Oradea, Romania. Early detection and targeted interventions are crucial to address these anomalies and improve orthodontic outcomes. Comprehensive assessment and treatment planning are essential to achieve optimal dental harmony and function. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying factors contributing to these positional changes and their long-term impact on oral health and occlusal stability. Full article
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11 pages, 16235 KiB  
Article
Performance Evaluation of Ultrasound Images Using Non-Local Means Algorithm with Adaptive Isotropic Search Window for Improved Detection of Salivary Gland Diseases: A Pilot Study
by Ji-Youn Kim
Diagnostics 2024, 14(13), 1433; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14131433 - 4 Jul 2024
Viewed by 748
Abstract
Speckle noise in ultrasound images (UIs) significantly reduces the accuracy of disease diagnosis. The aim of this study was to quantitatively evaluate its feasibility in salivary gland ultrasound imaging by modeling the adaptive non-local means (NLM) algorithm. UIs were obtained using an open-source [...] Read more.
Speckle noise in ultrasound images (UIs) significantly reduces the accuracy of disease diagnosis. The aim of this study was to quantitatively evaluate its feasibility in salivary gland ultrasound imaging by modeling the adaptive non-local means (NLM) algorithm. UIs were obtained using an open-source device provided by SonoSkills and FUJIFILM Healthcare Europe. The adaptive NLM algorithm automates optimization by modeling the isotropic search window, eliminating the need for manual configuration in conventional NLM methods. The coefficient of variation (COV), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and edge rise distance (ERD) were used as quantitative evaluation parameters. UIs of the salivary glands revealed evident visualization of the internal echo shape of the malignant tumor and calcification line using the adaptive NLM algorithm. Improved COV and CNR results (approximately 4.62 and 2.15 times, respectively) compared with noisy images were achieved. Additionally, when the adaptive NLM algorithm was applied to the UIs of patients with salivary gland sialolithiasis, the noisy images and ERD values were calculated almost similarly. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the applicability of the adaptive NLM algorithm in optimizing search window parameters for salivary gland UIs. Full article
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21 pages, 47576 KiB  
Article
Orthodontic System Modeled and Simulated with the Lingual Technique to Assess Tooth Forces
by Abbas Hazem, Felicia Ileana Mărășescu, Mihaela Jana Țuculină, Alexandru Dan Popescu, Dragoș Laurențiu Popa, Lelia Laurența Mihai, Cristian Niky Cumpătă, Alexandru Iliescu, Petre Mărășescu and Ionela Teodora Dascălu
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1171; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111171 - 31 May 2024
Viewed by 820
Abstract
CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) is an imaging investigation that provides three-dimensional (3D) images of craniofacial structures. The purpose of this study is to determine the mechanical behavior of an orthodontic system where the lingual treatment technique was used in a 25-year-old female [...] Read more.
CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) is an imaging investigation that provides three-dimensional (3D) images of craniofacial structures. The purpose of this study is to determine the mechanical behavior of an orthodontic system where the lingual treatment technique was used in a 25-year-old female patient from whom a set of CBCT scans was used. CBCT images were processed through software programs such as Invesalius, Geomagic, and Solid Works, to create models containing virtual solids. These models were then imported into Ansys Workbench 2019 R3 (a finite element method software program) for successive simulations to generate displacement maps, deformations, stress distributions, and diagrams. We observed that in the lingual technique, the lowest force occurring on the maxillary teeth is at 1.1, while the highest force appears at 2.3. In the mandible, the lowest force occurs at 4.6, and the highest force at 3.1. The values of the forces and the results of the finite element method can represent a basis for the innovation of new orthodontic springs and also of bracket elements. Thus, by using new technologies, orthodontic practice can be significantly improved for the benefit of patients. Other virtual methods and techniques can be used in future studies, including the application of virtual reality for orthodontic diagnosis. Full article
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Review

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16 pages, 12264 KiB  
Review
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Indications of Different Types of Mandibular Advancement Design for Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Indications from Literature Review and Case Descriptions
by Antonino Lo Giudice, Salvatore La Rosa, Giuseppe Palazzo and Carmelo Federico
Diagnostics 2024, 14(17), 1915; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14171915 - 30 Aug 2024
Viewed by 853
Abstract
Background: Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are considered a primary alternative treatment for adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who are unable to tolerate or do not respond to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, supported by substantial scientific evidence. While [...] Read more.
Background: Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are considered a primary alternative treatment for adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who are unable to tolerate or do not respond to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, supported by substantial scientific evidence. While a range of designs and materials for MADs are commercially available, there is a lack of clear diagnostic guidelines to assist clinicians in selecting the most appropriate device based on a multidisciplinary evaluation of OSA patients. This narrative review seeks to outline the key characteristics of MADs that clinicians should evaluate during both the diagnostic and treatment phases for patients with OSA. Methods: An extensive search of academic databases was conducted to gather relevant studies that address therapeutic and diagnostic recommendations for the design and titration of MADs. The search was carried out across EMBASE, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science up to May 2024. From a total of 1445 identified citations, 1103 remained after duplicate removal. Based on the inclusion criteria, the full text of 202 articles was retrieved, and 70 studies were ultimately included in this review. The extracted data were organized to generate clinical insights, aimed at guiding orthodontists in optimizing diagnostic and decision-making processes for treating OSA patients with MADs. Results: The analysis led to the identification of key clinical questions that can assist orthodontists in enhancing their approach and choosing the appropriate appliance basing on the diagnosis and clinical dento-orofacial characteristics. Conclusions: Bibloc appliances could be preferred over mono-bloc devices due to the possibility of arranging the mandibular advancement according to the patient’s clinical condition and orofacial symptoms. Provisional devices could be used as screening tools to verify the patient’s adherence to the therapy. Regardless of the MAD design, type and programmed advancement, it must be under-lined that the rule of the orthodontist/dental specialist is secondary to the other sleep-medicine specialists (ORL, pulmonologist) and must be related to (1) a preliminary assessment of MAD usage (dental anatomical conditions), (2) testing a diagnostic MAD usable during a sleep examination (PSG or DISE), (3) final treatment with a definitive MAD. Full article
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Other

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12 pages, 10917 KiB  
Case Report
Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Mandibular Second Premolar Impaction: A Case Report
by Anna-Maria Janosy, Abel Emanuel Moca and Raluca Iulia Juncar
Diagnostics 2024, 14(15), 1610; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14151610 - 26 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1027
Abstract
Odontogenesis, the process of tooth formation, is complex and susceptible to disruptions that can result in dental anomalies such as tooth impaction. The mandibular second premolar, though less commonly impacted than wisdom teeth, presents a unique challenge in pediatric dentistry due to its [...] Read more.
Odontogenesis, the process of tooth formation, is complex and susceptible to disruptions that can result in dental anomalies such as tooth impaction. The mandibular second premolar, though less commonly impacted than wisdom teeth, presents a unique challenge in pediatric dentistry due to its intricate etiology and the need for timely intervention. This case report aims to highlight the significance of early diagnosis and conservative management strategies in treating mandibular second premolar impaction. The case involves a pediatric patient with impacted mandibular second premolars. Initial treatment included the use of a lower removable appliance with an expansion screw to alleviate crowding, followed by a fixed space maintainer and a Haas rapid palatal expander. These interventions created the necessary space for the premolars to erupt. Self-ligating brackets were later applied, reducing friction and improving periodontal health. The patient underwent two CBCT examinations to monitor progress, which confirmed the successful eruption and alignment of the impacted premolars without the need for surgical exposure. This case underscores the effectiveness of early diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment in managing mandibular second premolar impaction. The tailored approach facilitated the natural eruption of the teeth, highlighting the importance of individualized treatment plans. Future research should focus on optimizing these conservative strategies to enhance patient outcomes in similar cases. Full article
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9 pages, 4738 KiB  
Technical Note
Intraoral Ultrasonography for the Exploration of Periodontal Tissues: A Technological Leap for Oral Diagnosis
by Matthieu Renaud, Mickael Gette, Alexis Delpierre, Samuel Calle, Franck Levassort, Frédéric Denis and Gaël Y. Rochefort
Diagnostics 2024, 14(13), 1335; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14131335 - 24 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1225
Abstract
Introduction: Periodontal disease is an infectious syndrome presenting inflammatory aspects. Radiographic evaluation is an essential complement to clinical assessment but has limitations such as the impossibility of assessing tissue inflammation. It seems essential to consider new exploration methods in clinical practice. Ultrasound of [...] Read more.
Introduction: Periodontal disease is an infectious syndrome presenting inflammatory aspects. Radiographic evaluation is an essential complement to clinical assessment but has limitations such as the impossibility of assessing tissue inflammation. It seems essential to consider new exploration methods in clinical practice. Ultrasound of periodontal tissues could make it possible to visualize periodontal structures and detect periodontal diseases (periodontal pocket measurement and the presence of intra-tissue inflammation). Clinical Innovation Report: An ultrasound probe has been specially developed to explore periodontal tissues. The objective of this clinical innovation report is to present this device and expose its potential. Discussion: Various immediate advantages favor using ultrasound: no pain, no bleeding, faster execution time, and an image recording that can be replayed without having to probe the patient again. Ultrasound measurements of pocket depth appear to be as reliable and reproducible as those obtained by manual probing, as do tissue thickness measurements and the detection of intra-tissue inflammation. Conclusions: Ultrasound seems to have a broad spectrum of indications. Given the major advances offered by ultrasound imaging as a complementary aid to diagnosis, additional studies are necessary to validate these elements and clarify the potential field of application of ultrasound imaging in dentistry. Full article
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