Dental Sciences and Potential Biomarkers

A special issue of Medicina (ISSN 1648-9144). This special issue belongs to the section "Dentistry and Oral Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 July 2023) | Viewed by 8401

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Community and Preventive Dentistry, Dow International Dental College (DIDC), Karachi 74200, Pakistan
Interests: biomarkers; photodynamic therapy; photo biomodulation; dentistry

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

A characteristic that is objectively tested and assessed as an indicator of biological processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacologic reactions to therapeutic intervention is referred to as a "biomarker" or "biological marker. There has been active research into the use of biomarkers in the diagnosis of oral cancers, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), periodontal disease, and other oral health issues.

Tumor necrosis factor TNF and TNF receptor 2 have been found as biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of Temporomandibular disorder in terms of reducing inflammation and pain. Biomarkers in periodontitis can be collected via biopsy and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and are then measured by immunoassay. GCF has been extensively investigated for the release of host response factors. It includes a mixture of molecules from blood, host tissue, and plaque biofilms, such as electrolytes, small molecules, proteins, cytokines, antibodies, bacterial antigens, and enzymes   MicroRNAs found in saliva have also been investigated as potential diagnostic and prognostic indicators for periodontal disease and oral cancer. Chronic inflammation is significantly influenced by the biomarker IL-1. In particular, it has a strong correlation with the course of periodontal disease and is regarded as a reliable biomarker for differentiating between active and inactive periodontal disease. It is possible to find elevated IL-1 levels in the GCF of people who have periodontal disease. IL-6 is a cytokine with a prominent function in immunological and inflammatory responses, much like IL-1. Elevated IL-6 levels are seen in cases of gingivitis and periodontitis. Local (GCF or tissue) elevations in IL-1, TNF-, prostaglandins such as prostaglandin E2, and MMPs are related to the severity of periodontitis. A promising biomarker for the early detection of peri-implant inflammation is MMP-8.

The content of saliva is preprogrammed to change in response to oral cavity events. HER2/neu, a diagnostic biomarker for breast cancer, is the first cancer biomarker discovered in saliva. When compared to patients with oral premalignant lesions and the control, the levels of IL-1a, IL-6, and IL-8 were considerably higher in the entire saliva of participants with oral squamous cell carcinoma. Therefore, the prime aim of the Special Issue is to assess different biomarkers and their role in oral health and dental sciences.

Dr. Mustafa Naseem
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • biomarkers
  • oral care
  • dental care
  • periodontology
  • orthodontics
  • implant
  • caries

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

9 pages, 927 KiB  
Article
Levels of Inflammatory and Bone Metabolic Markers in the Gingival Crevicular Fluid of Individuals Undergoing Fixed Orthodontic Treatment in Comparison to Those Utilizing Invisalign
by Abdullah A. Alnazeh, Muhammad Abdullah Kamran, Yahya Aseeri, Mohammad Raji Alrwuili, Mohammed Ahmed Aljabab, Eisha Abrar Baig and Mohammad Shahul Hameed
Medicina 2023, 59(12), 2107; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59122107 - 1 Dec 2023
Viewed by 1310
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Evaluation of the levels of cytokine and bone metabolic biomarkers (BMBs) in patients receiving fixed orthodontic therapy (FOT) and Invisalign. Materials and Methods: Sixty participants were enrolled after meeting the predefined inclusion criteria. Patients then underwent either FOT [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Evaluation of the levels of cytokine and bone metabolic biomarkers (BMBs) in patients receiving fixed orthodontic therapy (FOT) and Invisalign. Materials and Methods: Sixty participants were enrolled after meeting the predefined inclusion criteria. Patients then underwent either FOT or Invisalign by allocating them randomly to each group (n = 30). The basic periodontal assessment was performed, including the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding on probing (BoP), at baseline and again after 4 weeks. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were taken from each individual at baseline and after 4 weeks. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique was used to determine the cytokine and BMB levels. An unpaired t-test compared the FOT and Invisalign group’s means and SDs. Paired t-tests examined the difference between T0 baseline and T1. Results: Patients treated with either FOT or Invisalign presented no statistically significant difference in terms of periodontal parameters such as PI, GI, and BoP (p > 0.05). The levels of IL-6 were significantly higher in patients treated with FOT as compared to Invisalign at T1 (p < 0.05) The other tested cytokines, IL-10, 13, 17, and GM-CSF, were not significantly different in either the FOT or Invisalign group at baseline and 4 weeks follow-up (p > 0.05). Regarding BMBs, it was detected that NTx and OC levels in both of the investigated groups were not significantly different at baseline and after 4 weeks (p > 0.05). However, NTx levels rose significantly (p < 0.05) and OC levels fell from T0 to T1. Conclusions: FOT and Invisalign displayed comparable outcomes in terms of cytokine and BMB levels. However, only IL-6 and NTx were significantly different at week 4 from baseline. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Sciences and Potential Biomarkers)
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12 pages, 1575 KiB  
Article
Effect of Plant-Based Mouthwash (Morinda citrifolia and Ocimum sanctum) on TNF-α, IL-α, IL-β, IL-2, and IL-6 in Gingival Crevicular Fluid and Plaque Scores of Patients Undergoing Fixed Orthodontic Treatment
by Muhammad Abdullah Kamran, Abdullah A. Alnazeh, Salem Almoammar, Mohammad Almagbol, Eisha Abrar Baig, Mohammad Raji Alrwuili, Mohammed Ahmed Aljabab and Ibrahim Alshahrani
Medicina 2023, 59(11), 1968; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59111968 - 8 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1541
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To investigate the antiplaque properties of two plant-based mouthwashes, Morinda citrifolia (MC) and Ocimum sanctum (OS), and their effect on TNF-α, IL-α, IL-β, IL-2, and IL-6 in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. Materials and [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: To investigate the antiplaque properties of two plant-based mouthwashes, Morinda citrifolia (MC) and Ocimum sanctum (OS), and their effect on TNF-α, IL-α, IL-β, IL-2, and IL-6 in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: Seventy-five individuals were recruited according to defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. This study was structured into two distinct phases. Phase I was a combination of toothbrushing using toothpaste containing fluoride (Protocol A), while Phase II toothbrushing included fluoride toothpaste and use of a mouthwash (Protocol B). For Phase II, individuals participating in this study were allocated into different groups through a randomization process: Group 1—0.12% CHX, Group 2—5% MC, and Group 3—4% OS. Each individual’s Phase I and Phase II scores were assessed. GCF was measured in three phases to determine the level of inflammatory biomarkers. The paired t-test evaluated the disparities between the pre- and post-plaque index. Categorical data were subjected to crosstab analysis to assess qualitative variables. The mean values of cytokine levels were presented. An unpaired t-test was employed to assess the levels of cytokines between individuals in Phase I and Phase II. Results: Toothbrushing, fluoride toothpaste, and the supplementary use of mouthwash (Phase II) resulted in mean plaque scores significantly lower than group A (p < 0.001). Cytokines TNF-α, IL-α, and IL-β demonstrated a significant downward trend in herbal mouthwash users. Conclusions: In conjunction with fluoridated toothpaste and brushing, OS and MC can serve as a viable alternative to conventional synthetic mouthwash CHX. This combination demonstrates reducing mean plaque scores and diminishing the levels of cytokines TNF-α, IL-α, and IL-β. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Sciences and Potential Biomarkers)
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11 pages, 1474 KiB  
Article
Influence of Torque on Platform Deformity of the Tri-Channel Implant: Two- and Three-Dimensional Analysis Using Micro-Computed Tomography
by Renata Costa de Morais, Anselmo Agostinho Simionato, Izabela Cristina Maurício Moris, Graziela Bianchi Leoni, Adriana Cláudia Lapria Faria, Renata Cristina Silveira Rodrigues and Ricardo Faria Ribeiro
Medicina 2023, 59(7), 1311; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59071311 - 15 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1243
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The insertion of the dental implant in the bone is an essential step in prosthetic rehabilitation. The insertion torque has the potential to distort the prosthetic platform, which can cause future biomechanical problems with the continuous action of occlusal [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The insertion of the dental implant in the bone is an essential step in prosthetic rehabilitation. The insertion torque has the potential to distort the prosthetic platform, which can cause future biomechanical problems with the continuous action of occlusal forces. The aim of this study is to evaluate different insertion torques in the deformation of tri-channel platform connections through two- and three-dimensional measurements with micro-CT. Materials and Methods: A total of 164 implants were divided into groups (platform diameter and type): 3.5, 3.75, and 4.3 mm NP (narrow platform), and 4.3 mm RP (regular platform). Each implant–platform group was then divided into four subgroups (n = 10) with different torques: T45 (45 Ncm), T80 (80 Ncm), T120 (120 Ncm), and T150 (150 Ncm). The implant–abutment–screw assemblies were scanned and the images obtained were analyzed. Results: A significant difference was observed for the linear and volume measures between the different platforms (p < 0.01) and the different implant insertion torques (p < 0.01). Qualitative analysis suggested a higher deformation resistance for the 3.75 NP compared to the 3.5 NP, and RP was more resistant compared to the NP. Conclusions: The 0.25 mm increment in the implant platform did not increase the resistance to the applied insertion torques; the 4.3 mm implant was significantly stronger compared to the 3.5 mm implant; and the proposed micro-CT analysis was considered valid for both the 2D and 3D analyses of micro-gaps, qualitatively and quantitatively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Sciences and Potential Biomarkers)
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19 pages, 411 KiB  
Article
A Study of Oral Health Parameters and the Properties and Composition of Saliva in Oncological Patients with and without Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Who Take Bisphosphonates
by Hanna Sobczak-Jaskow, Barbara Kochańska and Barbara Drogoszewska
Medicina 2023, 59(6), 1073; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59061073 - 2 Jun 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1922
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine how the status of the oral cavity, composition and properties of saliva change in oncological patients with and without Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ) undergoing bisphosphonate therapy. Materials and Methods [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine how the status of the oral cavity, composition and properties of saliva change in oncological patients with and without Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ) undergoing bisphosphonate therapy. Materials and Methods: A retrospective case–control study of 49 oncological patients using bisphosphonates (BPs) was conducted. The study population was divided into two groups—Group I consisted of 29 patients with MRONJ and Group II of 20 patients without MRONJ. The control group consisted of 32 persons without oncological history and without antiresorptive therapy. Standard dental examination included the assessment of the number of teeth remaining, teeth with caries and fillings, Approximal Plaque Index (API) and Bleeding on Probing (BOP). In terms of MRONJ, localization and stage were assessed. Laboratory tests of saliva included determination of pH and concentrations of Ca and PO4 ions, total protein, lactoferrin, lysozyme, sIgA, IgA, cortisol, neopterin, activity of amylase at rest, and stimulated saliva. The buffering capacity and microbiological tests (Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus spp. load) of stimulated saliva were also determined. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the selected oral parameters and saliva of Group I and Group II. Significant differences were found between Group I and the control group. BOP, lysozyme and cortisol concentration were higher, while the number of teeth with fillings, Ca and neopterin concentrations were lower in comparison to the control group. In Group I, a significantly higher percentage of patients with a high colony count (>105) of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus spp. was also found. The significant differences between Group II and the control group concerned the concentrations of lysozyme, Ca ions, sIgA, neopterin and the colony count of Lactobacillus spp. In the Group I patients who received a significantly higher cumulative dose of BP compared to the Group II, a significant positive correlation was found between the received BP dose and the BOP. Most MRONJ foci were stage 2 and were mainly located in the mandible. Conclusions: Among oncological patients with and without MRONJ undergoing BP therapy compared to the control group, there are statistically significant differences in the dental, periodontal and microbiological status and in the composition of the saliva. Particularly noteworthy are the statistically significant differences in the decreased level of Ca ions, the increased level of cortisol and the elements of saliva related to the immune response (lysozyme, sIgA, neopterin). Additionally, a higher cumulative dose of BPs may affect the susceptibility to the development of osteonecrosis of the jaws. Patients undergoing antiresorptive therapy should receive multidisciplinary medical care, including dental care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Sciences and Potential Biomarkers)
12 pages, 1078 KiB  
Article
Influence of Different Orthodontic Brackets on Cytokine and Cortisol Profile
by I. Pantsulaia, N. Orjonikidze, I. Kvachadze, T. Mikadze and T. Chikovani
Medicina 2023, 59(3), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59030566 - 14 Mar 2023
Viewed by 1896
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) requires bone remodeling resulting from complex processes of aseptic inflammation. Recent studies have confirmed close interaction between the immune and skeletal systems. In addition, various orthodontic appliances including fixed systems affect the sublingual microbial composition, [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) requires bone remodeling resulting from complex processes of aseptic inflammation. Recent studies have confirmed close interaction between the immune and skeletal systems. In addition, various orthodontic appliances including fixed systems affect the sublingual microbial composition, and the likelihood of developing inflammatory reactions of the gums is high, especially early in the treatment period. It is known that these systems have both positive and negative effects on the humoral and cellular immune responses. The main aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of self-ligating and conventional brackets on the salivary concentrations of cytokines (IL-6, osteoprotegerin (OPG), TNF-alpha, and IFN-gamma) and cortisol as a marker of stress. Materials and Methods: Forty patients were analyzed at baseline (T0) and 2 months (T2) after fixing self-ligating (Ormco Damond Q) and conventional brackets (Ormco Mini Diamond). Salivary cytokine and cortisol concentrations were evaluated by commercial ELISA kits. Results: Outcomes of our study showed that after two months of treatment with either of these brackets, IFN-gamma and IL-6 levels did not change. However, TNF-alpha decreased with self-ligating brackets (13.36 to 8.32, p = 0.002). The self-ligating bracket system also affects OPG concentration and cortisol levels 2 months after orthodontic activation. The level of OPG in the group of self-ligating brackets decreased significantly (8.55 to 2.72, p = 0.003). Cortisol concentration was significantly higher in the self-ligation group (25.72 to 48.45, p = 0.001) due to the effect of sustained strength movements. Conclusions: Thus, the use of self-ligating and conventional brackets has a different effect on the concentration of cortisol and cytokines (OPG and TNF-alpha) in saliva 2 months after their fixation. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to explore why OPG levels are decreased in case of self-ligating cases and how OPG levels are related to clinical improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Sciences and Potential Biomarkers)
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