Dentistry Journal

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Open AccessReview

PEEK Intraoral Scan Bodies—A Scoping Review

by Ioulianos Rachiotis, Aspasia Pachiou, Daniel S. Thoma, Nadja Naenni and Christos Rahiotis

Dent. J. 2026, 14(4), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14040222 - 9 Apr 2026

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Abstract

Background: Accurate digital impressions are crucial for the long-term success of implant-supported prostheses, with scan bodies playing a pivotal role in transferring the implant position into the virtual model. Recent work has focused on PEEK (polyether-etherketone) scan bodies because their optical behavior [...] Read more.

Background: Accurate digital impressions are crucial for the long-term success of implant-supported prostheses, with scan bodies playing a pivotal role in transferring the implant position into the virtual model. Recent work has focused on PEEK (polyether-etherketone) scan bodies because their optical behavior may facilitate intraoral scanning; however, the breadth and quality of supporting evidence remain unclear. Methods: This scoping review followed PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines and was registered in the Open Science Framework (OSF; Registration DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/CU3V8). Pub-Med/MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus were searched through September 2025. Eligible designs included in vitro studies, randomized trials, observational studies, and technical reports evaluating PEEK scan bodies in implant dentistry. Screening and data extraction were performed in duplicate, and findings were synthesized descriptively. Results: The search identified 227 records, and after screening, 31 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies were in vitro, with limited clinical evidence, and only one prospective clinical study was identified. Outcomes commonly addressed trueness, precision, scan time, and handling. Comparators varied (e.g., titanium, resin; splinted vs. unsplinted), and the results on accuracy were heterogeneous, with deviations typically within clinically acceptable limits (<100 µm). Conclusions: PEEK scan bodies are applicable for digital implant impressions. Clinical data are sparse, though, and methods vary. Controlled clinical studies are necessary to confirm the accuracy, reliability, and indications of this approach compared to titanium ISBs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Dentistry: 2nd Edition)

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12 pages, 2002 KB

Open AccessReview

The Clinical Significance of Attached Gingiva in the Natural Dentition

by João Carnio, João Kreling Carnio and Paulo M. Camargo

Dent. J. 2026, 14(3), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14030156 - 9 Mar 2026

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Abstract

Background: The attached gingiva (AG) is the portion of the gingiva firmly bound to the underlying alveolar bone and root cementum, rendering it immobile during functioning. Its dense connective tissue attachment contributes to resistance against mechanical challenges, stabilization of the gingival margin, and [...] Read more.

Background: The attached gingiva (AG) is the portion of the gingiva firmly bound to the underlying alveolar bone and root cementum, rendering it immobile during functioning. Its dense connective tissue attachment contributes to resistance against mechanical challenges, stabilization of the gingival margin, and dissipation of forces transmitted from the alveolar mucosa. Histologically, AG is characterized by a keratinized epithelium supported by dense collagen fiber bundles, which provide structural integrity to the dento–gingival unit. Clinically, the buccal and lingual width of AG is estimated by subtracting sulcus depth from the total width of keratinized tissue. Although periodontal health may be maintained with minimal AG under optimal plaque control, substantial evidence supports its role in preserving gingival architecture and resisting mechanical trauma. Practical Application: From a clinical perspective, an adequate width of attached gingiva has traditionally been considered necessary to protect the periodontium; however, clinical situations may exist in which its dimension is reduced or absent. Available evidence suggests that a minimal width of approximately 1 mm of attached gingiva may be sufficient to maintain periodontal health under conditions of effective plaque control and absence of inflammation. Nevertheless, when only this minimal dimension is present, the attachment is predominantly derived from the junctional epithelium, which may offer limited mechanical protection to the dento–gingival unit. Within the limits of current evidence, a keratinized tissue width of approximately 3 mm appears to represent a functional threshold associated with increased connective tissue fiber density and enhanced resistance to mechanical trauma. Methods: A narrative review of classical and contemporary literature was conducted to evaluate the morphology, histology, function, and clinical relevance of the attached gingiva. Results: Evidence indicates that when AG width is minimal, reliance on junctional epithelial attachment alone provides limited resistance to mechanical challenges. In contrast, a greater width of AG incorporating connective tissue fiber attachment is associated with improved gingival margin stability, enhanced mechanical protection, and periodontal tissue resilience. Based on this synthesis, a tissue-based clinical categorization of AG is proposed. Conclusions: This review integrates current biological and clinical concepts regarding the functional dimensions of attached gingiva. The proposed categorization offers a practical framework to support clinical decision-making and to identify conditions in which surgical augmentation may be indicated for the management of mucogingival deficiencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Dentistry: 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 1007 KB

Open AccessReview

Mind–Body Movement-Based Interventions and Periodontal Health: A Scoping Review

by Marco M. Herz and Valentin Bartha

Dent. J. 2026, 14(3), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14030143 - 5 Mar 2026

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Abstract

Background: Periodontitis is a highly prevalent chronic inflammatory disease characterized by a complex host–microbe interaction and modulated by systemic regulatory pathways, including stress-related neuroendocrine and immunological mechanisms. Mind–body movement-based interventions such as yoga, tai chi, and qigong have demonstrated beneficial effects on [...] Read more.

Background: Periodontitis is a highly prevalent chronic inflammatory disease characterized by a complex host–microbe interaction and modulated by systemic regulatory pathways, including stress-related neuroendocrine and immunological mechanisms. Mind–body movement-based interventions such as yoga, tai chi, and qigong have demonstrated beneficial effects on stress and inflammation in general medicine, yet their relevance for periodontal health has not been systematically mapped. Methods: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Eligibility criteria included studies conducted in adult human participants examining mind–body movement-based interventions in relation to periodontal health. Sources of evidence comprised peer-reviewed studies identified through systematic searches in CINAHL, BIOSIS, Embase, PubMed/MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and LIVIVO. Data were charted using a standardized extraction form capturing key study characteristics and outcomes. Eligible studies reported clinical periodontal parameters and/or biological or psychosocial outcomes related to stress or inflammation. Results: Eleven studies investigating mind–body movement-based interventions and periodontal health were included. Interventions comprised yoga, pranayama, tai chi, and qigong, with study designs ranging from one randomized controlled trial to non-randomized interventional and observational studies. Most studies reported clinical periodontal parameters and/or periodontal-related biological markers, including inflammatory, oxidative, and immune markers, and several also assessed stress-related outcomes. The interventions were applied both as adjuncts to conventional periodontal therapy and as stand-alone approaches. Overall, the included studies reported short-term changes in periodontal parameters and stress-related measures that were generally directed towards associated with improvement; however, long-term periodontal outcomes were rarely assessed. Conclusions: Mind–body movement-based interventions, such as yoga and pranayama, have been examined in relation to periodontal health, with studies reporting periodontal clinical parameters, biological markers, and stress-related outcomes. The available evidence is heterogeneous and largely limited to short-term observations. Further methodologically rigorous studies with standardized outcome measures and longer follow-up periods are needed to better characterize the relationship between mind–body interventions and their potential adjunctive relevance in periodontal care, as current evidence does not allow conclusions regarding their routine adjunctive use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Dentistry: 2nd Edition)

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26 pages, 1377 KB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Inflammasomes in Chronic Oral Inflammatory Disease and Oral Cancer: A Narrative Review

by Banan Al-Natour, Issam Rasheed and Ikhlas A. El Elkarim

Dent. J. 2025, 13(12), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13120609 - 18 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Background: Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of many oral and systemic diseases and has long been recognised as a risk factor for cancer development. Central to inflammatory responses are inflammasomes—multiprotein complexes that, upon activation, trigger caspase-1–mediated release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) [...] Read more.

Background: Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of many oral and systemic diseases and has long been recognised as a risk factor for cancer development. Central to inflammatory responses are inflammasomes—multiprotein complexes that, upon activation, trigger caspase-1–mediated release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18). Their emerging contribution to chronic oral inflammatory conditions has generated interest in understanding whether persistent inflammasome activity may also influence pathways involved in oral carcinogenesis. This review summarises current evidence on the role of inflammasomes in oral inflammatory diseases and explores their potential involvement in the transition from chronic inflammation to malignant transformation. Methods: A narrative review of the literature was conducted by searching major scientific databases for studies investigating inflammasome activation in oral tissues, inflammatory oral diseases, and mechanisms linking chronic inflammation to oral cancer. Eligible articles included experimental studies, animal models, observational clinical research, and review papers that provided mechanistic or associative insights. Due to heterogeneity in study designs, a qualitative synthesis was performed. Results: Available evidence indicates that inflammasomes, particularly NLRP3 and AIM2, contribute to the pathophysiology of pulpitis, periodontitis, and several systemic conditions that affect oral health. Preclinical and observational findings also suggest potential involvement of inflammasome-related pathways in early tumorigenic processes, although these associations require further clarification. Preliminary biomarker-based studies demonstrate that inflammasome components measurable in saliva, pulpal blood, or gingival crevicular fluid may offer minimally invasive indicators of inflammatory burden and oral health status. Conclusions: Inflammasomes appear to play a meaningful role in oral inflammatory diseases, and growing evidence links their persistent activation to mechanisms relevant to oral carcinogenesis. However, current findings are largely associative and derived primarily from experimental and early clinical research. Additional work is needed to define precisely how inflammasomes contribute to the progression from chronic oral inflammation toward malignant change and to evaluate whether targeting inflammasome pathways offers viable therapeutic or diagnostic potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Dentistry: 2nd Edition)

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24 pages, 1018 KB

Open AccessReview

Recent Advances in Regenerative Therapies in Periodontology

by Andrei-Mario Bădărău-Șuster, Edwin Sever Bechir, Zsuzsanna Bardocz-Veres, Ana Petra Lazăr, Alexandru Vlasa, Mircea Suciu, Tatiana-Maria Coman and Luminița Lazăr

Dent. J. 2025, 13(12), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13120564 - 1 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Background/Objectives: Periodontal regeneration remains a primary goal in contemporary periodontal therapy, aiming to restore both the structural and functional integrity of tissues lost due to periodontitis. Recent advancements in biomaterials, growth factors, and biologically active matrices have expanded the therapeutic possibilities in [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Periodontal regeneration remains a primary goal in contemporary periodontal therapy, aiming to restore both the structural and functional integrity of tissues lost due to periodontitis. Recent advancements in biomaterials, growth factors, and biologically active matrices have expanded the therapeutic possibilities in clinical practice. This narrative review aimed to summarize recent developments in regenerative approaches in periodontology, emphasizing their biological principles, clinical outcomes, and current limitations. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed Central and Scopus for randomized controlled trials and clinical trials published between January 2015 and July 2025. Human studies in English, available in open access and evaluating periodontal regenerative approaches, were included, while animal, in vitro, and non-clinical studies were excluded. A total of 67 articles met the eligibility criteria. Data were synthesized in both tabular and narrative form. Results: Most trials reported clinically relevant improvements in probing depth reduction, clinical attachment gain, and defect fill when regenerative biomaterials were applied in appropriately selected intrabony defects, although outcomes varied according to defect morphology, surgical protocol, and patient-related factors. Conclusions: Although substantial progress has been made, true periodontal regeneration remains challenging. Regenerative techniques such as GTR/GBR, EMD, platelet concentrates, and hyaluronic acid show favorable outcomes in appropriately selected cases, although overall predictability remains limited by variability in study design and short follow-up periods. High-quality, standardized RCTs are needed to consolidate current evidence and support guideline-based clinical decision-making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Dentistry: 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 286 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Immediate Dentine Sealing: Towards a Surface Science Perspective on an Undercharacterised Adhesive Interface

by Konstantinos Anastasiadis and Emmanouil-George Tzanakakis

Dent. J. 2025, 13(12), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13120549 - 21 Nov 2025

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Abstract

Background: Immediate Dentine Sealing (IDS) is a well-established adhesive strategy that protects freshly cut dentine and enhances the clinical performance of indirect restorations. While its mechanical benefits are extensively documented, the surface morphology and chemical nature of the sealed dentine, particularly following [...] Read more.

Background: Immediate Dentine Sealing (IDS) is a well-established adhesive strategy that protects freshly cut dentine and enhances the clinical performance of indirect restorations. While its mechanical benefits are extensively documented, the surface morphology and chemical nature of the sealed dentine, particularly following provisionalisation and reactivation, remain under-characterised. Understanding this bonding substrate is critical for optimising adhesion and long-term outcomes. Methods: This narrative review synthesises the literature on the morphological and chemical features of dentine following IDS, focusing on the distinction between cross-sectional and surface-level characterisation, as well as the analytical techniques employed. Results: Most studies concentrate on internal bond strength and failure analysis, with only a limited subset incorporating surface-sensitive methods such as top-down SEM or optical non-contact profilometry. Quantitative and chemically resolved data on the reactivated dentine surface, the dentine surface after cleaning or abrasion, prior to cementation are scarce, and standardised analytical protocols are lacking. Conclusions: The bonding interface in IDS, namely the reactivated dentine surface, is underexplored. Future research should apply advanced, non-destructive techniques to characterise this clinically relevant substrate and guide the development of adhesive systems tailored to IDS-treated dentine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Dentistry: 2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 684 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Impact of Orthodontic-Related Social Media Content on Patients’ Willingness to Initiate Treatment: A Systematic Review

by Konstantinos Lappas, Efthymia Tsialta, Nefeli Katanaki, Ioanna Pouliezou and Iosif Sifakakis

Dent. J. 2026, 14(5), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14050263 - 1 May 2026

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Abstract

Background/Objectives: Nowadays, social media is increasingly utilized in the field of orthodontics for information sharing and promotion, yet its influence on patients’ willingness to initiate orthodontic treatment remains insufficiently defined. This systematic review aims to synthesize the available evidence on the impact [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Nowadays, social media is increasingly utilized in the field of orthodontics for information sharing and promotion, yet its influence on patients’ willingness to initiate orthodontic treatment remains insufficiently defined. This systematic review aims to synthesize the available evidence on the impact of orthodontic-related social media content on patients’ willingness to seek orthodontic treatment. Methods: An extensive literature search was performed across five electronic databases up to August 2025, complemented by manual screening of reference lists. Randomized and non-randomized studies evaluating orthodontic-related social media exposure and reported treatment-related willingness or motivation outcomes were considered for inclusion. Results: A total of 1243 records were identified, and eight studies met the inclusion criteria, including six cross-sectional studies, one randomized controlled trial, and one qualitative study. Given the diversity of study designs and assessment methods, the results were synthesized narratively. Visually oriented orthodontic-related social media posts, particularly outcome-focused imagery such as before–after photographs, were more frequently associated with increased willingness to seek orthodontic treatment compared with technical content. Gender-related differences were reported, with female participants appearing more responsive to orthodontic-related social media exposure. Across the included studies, Instagram was identified as the platform exerting the strongest influence. Conclusions: The findings of this systematic review indicate that visually oriented orthodontic-related social media content, particularly outcome-focused imagery such as before–after photographs, shows more consistent associations with willingness to seek orthodontic treatment, alongside gender-related differences and platform-specific effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Dentistry: 2nd Edition)

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14 pages, 3409 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Malignant Transformation in Extraoral Lichen Planus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis in the Context of the Risk in Oral Lichen Planus

by Ana Carolina Evangelista Colafemina, Caique Mariano Pedroso, Maria Eduarda Perez-de-Oliveira, Ana Gabriela Costa Normando, Katherine France, Rafael Tomaz Gomes, Marcelo Henrique Napimoga, Marcio Ajudarte Lopes and Alan Roger Santos-Silva

Dent. J. 2026, 14(4), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14040217 - 8 Apr 2026

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Abstract

Objectives: This systematic review aimed to evaluate malignant transformation (MT) in extraoral lichen planus to help contextualize the debated malignant potential of oral lichen planus in a mucocutaneous disease model. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five databases and [...] Read more.

Objectives: This systematic review aimed to evaluate malignant transformation (MT) in extraoral lichen planus to help contextualize the debated malignant potential of oral lichen planus in a mucocutaneous disease model. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five databases and gray literature sources, without date restrictions. Observational studies reporting MT in cutaneous or genital LP were included. Data extraction, risk of bias assessment using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), and meta-analysis of proportions were performed. Subgroup analyses by anatomical site were conducted where possible. Results: Ten studies (15,829 patients) were included, with a predominance of women (93.1%). The pooled MT rate of extraoral LP was 1% (95% CI: 0.00–0.03). Subgroup analysis revealed a significantly higher rate in vulvar LP (2%; 95% CI: 0.02–0.03) compared to cutaneous LP (0%; 95% CI: 0.00–0.01) (p < 0.0001). Squamous cell carcinoma was the most frequent malignancy. The erosive and hypertrophic subtypes of LP were more commonly associated with cancer development. Conclusions: MT of extraoral LP appears to be rare, particularly in cutaneous forms. However, the risks observed in the genital mucosa reinforce the need for accurate diagnosis and long-term follow-up, especially in erosive presentations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Dentistry: 2nd Edition)

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11 pages, 696 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Effectiveness of Vitamin D Supplementation in Association with Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy: A Systematic Review

by Paolo Pesce, Francesco Bagnasco, Nicola de Angelis, Gaetano Isola, Cecilia Portaccio, Marco Migliorati and Maria Menini

Dent. J. 2026, 14(4), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14040211 - 6 Apr 2026

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Abstract

Background: Vitamin D has been increasingly investigated for its pleiotropic immunomodulatory and antimicrobial effects, which may influence periodontal inflammation and healing. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the impact of serum vitamin D levels and vitamin D supplementation as an adjunct to [...] Read more.

Background: Vitamin D has been increasingly investigated for its pleiotropic immunomodulatory and antimicrobial effects, which may influence periodontal inflammation and healing. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the impact of serum vitamin D levels and vitamin D supplementation as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) on clinical and microbiological outcomes in patients with periodontitis. Methods: An electronic search was conducted in MEDLINE and other major databases up to September 2025. Randomized controlled trials assessing the relationship between vitamin D status or supplementation and periodontal outcomes following NSPT were included. Data were synthesized qualitatively, focusing on changes in serum 25(OH)D levels and periodontal parameters, including probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index (PI), and gingival inflammation. Results: Four studies met the inclusion criteria. In patients with sufficient baseline vitamin D levels, supplementation provided limited additional clinical benefits beyond NSPT alone. Conversely, in vitamin D-deficient patients, supplementation regimens capable of restoring serum 25(OH)D levels above 30 ng/mL were consistently associated with greater reductions in PPD, improved CAL, and decreased plaque and bleeding indices. Microbiological analyses also revealed a reduction in red complex periodontal pathogens in supplemented groups. Conclusions: Vitamin D supplementation enhances the clinical effectiveness of NSPT primarily in patients with documented vitamin D deficiency. Its adjunctive benefits appear to be mediated by immunomodulatory and antimicrobial mechanisms that complement mechanical debridement. While current evidence supports targeted supplementation in deficient individuals, long-term randomized trials are required to establish standardized protocols and confirm sustained clinical benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Dentistry: 2nd Edition)

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