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Evaluation of Dental Students’ Learning Skill Throughout Repeated Practicing in Recording Preliminary Impressions: An Experimental Study
Full text linkObjective: This study aims to assess whether repeated attempts at taking alginate impressions improve the manual skills of dental students by measuring the error percentage of each preliminary impression and comparing these percentages across multiple trials to evaluate skill progression. Methods: Twenty dental students from the fifth-year stage were selected randomly to participate in the study. Each student took five alginate impressions after receiving a demonstration that included audio and video presentations to reinforce previously acquired knowledge. Error areas were highlighted using a red pen and then identified and quantified using Adobe Photoshop. Error areas have been deliberately identified to calculate the accuracy of each impression. The null hypothesis was that there would be no significant variation in the error percentages of preliminary impressions across the students' trials. Results: The study's results revealed an improvement in the students' manual skills in taking impressions after repeated trials. Even though the fifth trial had the lowest median error percentage, the difference in group means was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Repeated impression-taking improves dental students' manual skills, lowering error percentages in subsequent trials. Furthermore, the use of digital technologies in dental education facilities breaks skill acquisition down into more straightforward steps to detect and correct the errors
Evaluation of Root Canal Morphology of Maxillary Permanent Premolars in Iraqi Subpopulations by Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
Full text linkObjective: The aim of the present study is to assess the root and root canal morphology of maxillary first premolars (MFP) and maxillary second premolars (MSP) using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in an Iraqi subpopulation. Methods: One thousand five hundred and forty-eight maxillary permanent premolars (774 MFP and 774 MSP) from 387 CBCT scans with 182(47.03%) males and 205 (52.97%) females. The number of roots, orifices, and canal configuration were analyzed as frequencies and percentages using Vertucci’s classification. A Chi-square test was used to find the effect of gender and location on number of canals, orifices and root canal anatomy. Results: Most of the MFP had two roots (%60.9) and two orifices (87.6%) compared to MSP which had more one root (85.5%) and one orifice (73.8%). There was significant relation of gender to the number of the roots in both MFP and MSP (p 0.05), with single root premolars more frequent in females. In regard to Vertucci’s classification, type IV was the most frequent configuration in MFP (58.8%), whereas in MSP, type I configuration recorded the highest percentage (64.3%). Conclusions: Good knowledge of the root canal configuration is one of the most significant factors for successful root canal treatment. Most MFP had two roots, with Type IV being the most predominant canal configuration, whereas the majority of MSP had one root with Type I canal configuration
Comparison Between the Accuracy of Different AI-Based Cephalometric Analysis and Conventional Manual Analysis
Full text linkObjective: This study compared artificial intelligence-based cephalometric analysis platforms with conventional manual analysis using the Steiner Cephalometric analysis system. Methods: Three AI online software platforms: WEBCEPH, AssembleCircle Corp, South Korea, CEPHIO, Cephio Sp. Z o.o., Poland, and VOXEL Voxel3Di, United Kingdom, were evaluated using 25 cephalometric radiographs and compared with two manual tracings performed using (Lab Pronto, Blue Sky Plan) for the Steiner Cephalometric analysis system. Independent sample t-test was used to compare the two manual analysis. The Kruskal-Wallis H-test, followed by pairwise comparisons, was used to evaluate differences between AI-based and manual analyses, with significance at p≤0.05. Results: No significant discrepancies were found between the two manual analyses. However, the Kruskal-Wallis H-test and pairwise comparisons revealed significant differences between the AI platforms regarding the SNA angle and the U1 to NA angle. Specifically, VOXEL AI analysis differed from WEBCEPH (at p=0.003) and CEPHIO (at p=0.011) for these measurements. Conclusions: The findings highlight that while AI platforms such as VOXEL show promising alignment with manual analysis across most measurements, discrepancies, particularly in specific angles, underscore the need for cautious integration and ongoing validation of AI in orthodontic practice. The selection of appropriate AI-based analysis is crucial; however, manual analysis remains the gold standard for cephalometric analysis
A Comparative Evaluation of Sagittal Condylar Guidance Between Dentate and Edentulous Patients Using CBCT: An in Vivo Study
Full text linkObjective: The purpose of this study was to compare the sagittal condylar guidance (SCG) angle between dentate and edentulous patients, right and left sides, and males and females. At the same time, the study aimed to explore any statistically significant relation in values of the (SCG) angles between different age groups. Methods: The study samples included 40 participants, 20 dentate patients (10 men and 10 women, aged from 20-49 years) were included. Similarly, 20 edentulous patients (10 men and 10 women, aged from 50-79 years) were taken on. (SCG) angles were measured for the right and left sides using (CBCT) with appropriate software. Independent samples t-test and ANOVA test were used to analyze the data. Results: The difference in (SCG) values between dentate and edentulous patients was statistically significant at p 0.05. In contrast, the recorded values of (SCG) were comparable between the right and left sides, between males and females, with no statistical differences, p 0.05. Furthermore, potential statistically significant differences between the values of SCG angles and different age groups in dentate and edentulous cases were not explored. Conclusions: There was no significant variation in the values of the SCG angles between the right and left sides simultaneously between males and females. However, a significant difference was detected in the value of SCG angles between dentate and edentulous cases. In contrast, statistically significant differences were not depicted in the values of SCG angles between different age groups in dentate and edentulous samples
Comparative Evaluation of Polishing-Induced Enamel Surface Roughness: An In Vitro Study
No full textObjective: This study was formulated to examine the effect of different polishing modalities and observing the amount of enamel surface roughness induced by each of these polishing devices. Methods: Fifty- five bovine central incisors were used in the study. The design of the study includes 5 groups and each group contains 11 samples: Group 1 Aquacare air polisher; Group 2 Rotary and rubber cap using ACCLEAN polishing paste; Group 3 Prophy-Mate Neo; Group 4 Rotary and rubber cap using Pumice; Group 5 AIRFLOW EMS. Lastly, all the air-polishing groups were standardized by polishing the samples for 5 seconds at 90° at 4mm distance. Enamel surface roughness was measured both pre and post-polishing by profilometry and atomic force microscopy. Results: Profilometry and atomic force microscopy readings showed that all the study groups except pumice rotary polishing group, showed statistically significant differences in intragroup comparison at p 0.05. On the other hand, ANOVA analysis showed that only the Prophy-Mate Neo group showed statistically significant difference in inter-group comparison (p 0.05). Regarding AFM observations in inter-group comparison, both Prophy-Mate Neo and EMS groups showed statistically significant differences compared to the study groups. Conclusions: This in vitro study finds that of the five different polishing modalities utilized in this study, the rotary polishing technique using pumice as the polishing agent caused the least enamel surface roughness. On the other hand, Prophy-Mate Neo and Airflow EMS caused the highest levels of enamel surface roughness induction
Morphometric Analysis of Mental Foramen Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography in a Sample of the Erbil Population
No full textObjective: This study aims to analyze the mental foramen (MF) morphometric characteristics using Cone Beam Computed Tomography and compare its location based on gender differences in the Erbil population. Methods: The study included 52 Cone-Beam Computed Tomography scans. The following aspects were assessed: the position of the mental foramen (MF) in relation to the lower teeth, the distance of the mental foramen from the midline of the mandible, the distance of the mental foramen from the inferior border of the mandible, and the vertical and transverse distances of the mental foramen. Results: The study identified significant gender differences in the location of the mental foramen. Males had a greater distance from the mental foramen to the midline of the mandible on the left side (25.49 mm vs. 24.04 mm) and a greater distance from the mental foramen to the inferior border of the mandible on the right side (14.03 mm vs. 12.84 mm). The transverse distance of the mental foramen was also larger in males on the left side (4.47 mm vs. 3.84 mm). The mental foramen was most located between the first and second premolars. Significant differences were observed in the mental foramen’s position between the right and left sides. Conclusions: The findings highlight significant gender-based variations in the location of the mental foramen, which can influence clinical approaches in dental and surgical procedures
Digital Assessment of Transverse Maxillary Arch Measurements for Predicting Arch Length: Implications for Early Orthodontic Diagnosis and Preventive Dentistry
No full textObjective: The aim of this study was to investigate the possible correlation between the maxillary dental arch length and three other transverse linear measurements on three-dimensional digital models for developing a predictive model to be applied in early orthodontic diagnosis and prevention of the possible future malocclusion. Methods: A sample of 108 digital models of maxillary dental arches was derived from the scanned images belonging to orthodontic patients aged 18 to 25 years in Sulaimani City. Transverse dimensions and arch length were digitally measured, and the data were analyzed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, V. 25). Results: A pilot study was conducted to assess the reliability of measurements between conventional and digital methods for evaluating dental arch dimensions. The results showed no statistically significant differences between the two approaches. No significant gender differences were found in regard to the measurements. Correlation analysis demonstrated no significant relationship between dental arch length and inter-molar width (rho = 0.028, p = 0.776), inter-premolar width (rho = 0.004, p = 0.965), or inter-canine width (rho = 0.046, p = 0.638). However, significant positive correlations were observed among the three transverse arch dimensions: inter-molar and inter-premolar widths (rho = 0.687), inter-molar and inter-canine widths (rho = 0.682), and inter-premolar and inter-canine widths (rho = 0.926). Conclusions: Within the study’s limitations, no significant correlations were found between arch length and transverse linear measurements; therefore, a predictive model could not be established. Although inter-premolar and inter-molar widths showed statistically significant correlations, they did not contribute meaningfully to predicting arch length. Personalized evaluation using digital tools remains essential for accurate orthodontic planning and prevention of future malocclusion
Fixed Orthodontic Retentions from Orthodontists’ Perspectives (A Qualitative Study)
Full text linkObjective: This study aimed to investigate orthodontists' perspectives and experiences with fixed orthodontic retention, emphasizing its effectiveness, challenges, and recommended practices. It aimed to uncover the factors that influence the selection and management of fixed retainers and their impact on patient care. Methods: To select experienced orthodontists, a qualitative study design with purposive sampling was employed. Structured interviews were conducted with 15 participants, and verbal responses were recorded using phone sound recorders. The recordings were transcribed verbatim and analyzed through thematic analysis. Data collection and analysis were carried out simultaneously to ensure data saturation, which was reached after 15 interviews. Results: Thematic analysis identified eight key themes: perceptions of fixed retainers, patient compliance and education, technological and practical considerations, long-term outcomes and follow-up, treated malocclusion types, professional development and continuing education, multidisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered care. Fixed retainers are generally regarded as effective for maintaining alignment, particularly in cases where patient compliance is less critical, making them preferable to removable retainers in specific scenarios. However, concerns were noted regarding potential drawbacks, such as maintenance challenges, increased plaque accumulation, and difficulties achieving long-term success. Enhancing compliance and retainer effectiveness requires educational initiatives and technological advancements. The type of malocclusion significantly influences the choice of fixed retainers, especially in cases involving generalized spacing or severe rotations. Ongoing professional development, multidisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered strategies are essential for providing tailored treatment plans and improving patient satisfaction. Conclusions: This study highlights the complex dynamics of fixed orthodontic retention and introduces Structured-Self-Reply (SSR) interviews as a novel qualitative data collection method. Successful retention strategies necessitate integrating advanced technology, patient education, consideration of malocclusion types, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Addressing these elements can lead to improved patient outcomes and greater overall effectiveness of orthodontic treatment. Future research should explore cost-effective retention methods, long-term outcomes, and approaches to enhance patient adherence to retention protocols
Assessment of the Effect of the Degree of Root Canal Taper on the Fracture Resistance of Endodontically Treated Teeth: An In Vitro Study
Full text linkObjective: To evaluate and compare the fracture resistance of endodontically treated mandibular premolars using two different root canal preparation tapers. Methods: Eighty extracted single canal mandibular premolars were used. The specimens were sectioned for 13-mm roots. Then, all samples were randomly divided into four root canal preparation groups (n=20). Group 1 (n=20): Unprepared (control group). Group 2: A. (n=10) and B.(n=10), preparations with RACE EVO (FKG Dentaire SA, La Chaux de Fonds, Switzerland) rotary instruments up to size 30 taper 0.04, and size 30 taper 0.06, respectively, without obturation. Group 3 (n=20) and Group 4 (n=20): preparations with RACE EVO rotary instruments up to size 30 taper 0.04 and size 30 taper 0.06, respectively, then obturated with AH plus sealer by single cone obturation technique. Mechanical vertical compression testing with a universal testing machine exposed the samples to axial forces. Testing continued at 1 mm/min until samples shattered. The results were statistically analyzed by One-way ANOVA (p 0.05). Results: Different root canal taper preparations did not alter the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth in this study. G 1 had the strongest fracture resistance (898.00 N), whereas G 4 had the lowest (763.00 N). The groups did not vary statistically (P 0.05). Conclusions: Root fracture resistance was unaffected by root canal preparation tapers. Conversely, the taper 0.06 preparations group had the least fracture resistance. The most unrepairable type III fractures were in taper 0.06 preparations
Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Potency of Ziziphora clinopodioides Essential Oil: An In Vitro Study
Full text linkObjective: The present study examined the antibacterial and antibiofilm efficacy of Ziziphora clinopodioides (Z. clinopodioides) essential oil (EO) against the primary biofilm colonizers, such as Streptococcus sanguinis (S. sanguinis), Streptococcus mitis (S. mitis), and Streptococcus oralis (S. oralis). Methods: The hydrodistillation process was used for the essential oil extraction, and its components were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antibacterial effect against ATCC strains of S. sanguinis, S. mitis, and S. oralis was assessed using agar well diffusion. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) were investigated using the broth macrodilution method. Qualitative tube methods were used to evaluate the antibiofilm efficacy of the Z. clinopodioides EO. 0.12% Chlorhexidine (CHX) served as a positive control. Results: GC–MS recognized 24 elements with menthol (29.85%), (R)-carvone (10.53%), and eucalyptol (9.88%) as main constituents. Z. clinopodioides EO demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition zones among species and mixtures; generally, inhibition zones were smaller than CHX. The MICs for S. mitis and S. oralis were 2.34 μL/mL, while for S. sanguinis and the three-species mixture were 6.25 μL/mL; The MBCs were 4.68 and 12.5 μL/mL, respectively. The essential oil exhibited weak (S. sanguinis) to moderate (S. mitis, S. oralis, and the mixed culture) antibiofilm activity. Conclusions: Z. clinopodioides EO demonstrated antibacterial and antibiofilm effectiveness against primary biofilm colonizers; however, its effectiveness was lower than that of chlorhexidine