Current and Future Trends in Dentistry and Oral Health

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

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 26 June 2025 | Viewed by 1752

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Endodontics and Restorative Dental Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: endodontics; restorative dental medicine; dental materials; optical properties; dental caries prevention

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Guest Editor Assistant
Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: oral medicine; oral pathology; salivary diagnostics; orofacial pain disorders; special care in dentistry

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Guest Editor Assistant
Department of Orthodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University in Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: orthodontics; material science; 3D printing; aligners; mechanical and chemical properties

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Special Issue “Current and Future Trends in Dentistry and Oral Health” in Medicina highlights the transformative advancements shaping modern dental practice and patient care. This Special Issue emphasizes the role of digital innovations and artificial intelligence in improving diagnostic precision, treatment planning, and patient management. It also explores the development of biomaterials in restorative dentistry, periodontology, and prosthodontics with a focus on durability, esthetics, and biocompatibility. The papers published in this Special Issue will also contribute to advancements in orthodontics, such as clear aligner technology and minimally invasive methods, and preventive and pediatric dentistry, with individualized, minimally invasive approaches at the forefront. This Special Issue will further address the critical links between oral and systemic health, the growth of teledentistry in expanding patient access, and advancements in esthetic dentistry. Through original research and comprehensive reviews, this collection aims to present innovative, evidence-based insights that enhance clinical methodologies and improve patient outcomes in contemporary dental practice.

Dr. Eva Klarić
Guest Editor

Dr. Bruno Špiljak
Dr. Luka Šimunović
Guest Editor Assistants

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Keywords

  • digital dentistry
  • artificial intelligence in dentistry
  • biomaterials
  • orthodontics
  • endodontics
  • periodontics
  • oral–systemic health
  • dental public health
  • esthetic dentistry
  • implantology

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Published Papers (4 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 2589 KiB  
Article
Understanding Cyclic Fatigue in Three Nickel–Titanium Pediatric Files: An In Vitro Study for Enhanced Patient Care
by Alwaleed Abushanan, Rajashekhara Bhari Sharanesha, Fahd Aljarbou, Hadi Alamri, Mohammed Hamad Almasud, Abdulfatah AlAzmah, Sara Alghamdi and Mubashir Baig Mirza
Medicina 2025, 61(5), 830; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61050830 - 30 Apr 2025
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Abstract
Background and Objectives: Nickel–titanium (Niti) instruments have enhanced root canal cleaning in primary teeth, but file fractures are still common. Materials and Methods: This study evaluated the cyclic fatigue resistance of 120 Niti files from four different systems, A: Kedo SG (n [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Nickel–titanium (Niti) instruments have enhanced root canal cleaning in primary teeth, but file fractures are still common. Materials and Methods: This study evaluated the cyclic fatigue resistance of 120 Niti files from four different systems, A: Kedo SG (n = 30); B: Neoendo Pedoflex (n = 30); C: Pedoflex Waldent files (n = 30); and D: Vortex Blue files (n = 30). All the files had similar tip diameters (0.25 mm) and tapers (0.4%) and underwent heat treatment during manufacturing. Cyclic fatigue tests showed notable variations in cycles to fracture (NCF) across groups. All fracture surfaces of the files were assessed through scanning electron microscopy. Results: The mean values achieved in the experimental groups (A, B, C) were less than those in the control Group D (976.90 ± 1085.19). Files in Group A demonstrated the highest NCF (697.01 ± 420.09), while Pedoflex files in Group C showed the lowest values (203.88 ± 155.46). Statistical analysis using the Mann–Whitney test revealed significant differences between Group C and Groups A, B, and D and no differences among Groups A, B, and D. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Kedo SG and Neoendo Pedoflex files offer comparable cyclic fatigue resistance to Vortex Blue files. In contrast, Pedoflex Waldent files exhibit lower resistance to fracture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current and Future Trends in Dentistry and Oral Health)
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Review

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20 pages, 1753 KiB  
Review
Telemedicine and Digital Tools in Dentistry: Enhancing Diagnosis and Remote Patient Care
by Amelia Surdu, Cezar Ilie Foia, Ionut Luchian, Daniela Trifan, Dana Gabriela Budala, Mihaela Monica Scutariu, Corina Ciupilan, Bogdan Puha and Diana Tatarciuc
Medicina 2025, 61(5), 826; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61050826 - 30 Apr 2025
Viewed by 640
Abstract
Teledentistry enhances access to oral healthcare by enabling remote consultations, diagnosis, and patient management. This paper explores its applications, benefits, challenges, and impact on modern dentistry. A comprehensive review of existing literature and case studies was conducted to examine the effectiveness of teledentistry. [...] Read more.
Teledentistry enhances access to oral healthcare by enabling remote consultations, diagnosis, and patient management. This paper explores its applications, benefits, challenges, and impact on modern dentistry. A comprehensive review of existing literature and case studies was conducted to examine the effectiveness of teledentistry. Key aspects analyzed include digital imaging, AI (artificial intelligence)-assisted diagnostics, and cloud-based patient records, which facilitate early disease detection, reduce wait times, and minimize unnecessary visits. The review also highlights how teledentistry improves collaboration among dental professionals for better treatment planning. Challenges include legal barriers, data security concerns, and limited digital infrastructure. Standardized protocols and professional training are essential for effective implementation. Future advancements in AI and telecommunication technologies will further integrate teledentistry into standard practice, improving accessibility and efficiency in oral healthcare. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current and Future Trends in Dentistry and Oral Health)
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19 pages, 875 KiB  
Review
Occlusion and Temporomandibular Disorders: A Scoping Review
by Laurențiu Pascu, Raul-Samuel Haiduc, Oana Almășan and Daniel-Corneliu Leucuța
Medicina 2025, 61(5), 791; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61050791 - 24 Apr 2025
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Abstract
Background and Objectives: The occlusal–temporomandibular disorder (TMD) relation is a contentious issue in dentistry to date. This scoping review’s purpose was to map the existing literature on occlusal abnormalities and their potential role in the development and progression of TMD. Materials and [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The occlusal–temporomandibular disorder (TMD) relation is a contentious issue in dentistry to date. This scoping review’s purpose was to map the existing literature on occlusal abnormalities and their potential role in the development and progression of TMD. Materials and Methods: A search in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Embase, Lippincott, Medknow, and ClinicalKey was conducted. Articles researching the relationship between TMD and occlusion have been selected. A narrative data synthesis was conducted to chart and summarize the main findings from the included studies. Results: A total of 29 articles were included in this review. These studies confirm that angle class II and angle class III malocclusions, deep bite, and crossbite have a high prevalence of symptoms of TMD, including mandibular deviation, arthritic pain, and tenderness of the muscles. Malocclusion, edentulous spaces, and a reduced vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) also contribute to the severity of TMD, most prominently in older adults. TMD is also seen with high prevalence in females, with a female-to-male ratio of 2:1 to 20:1, according to studies. Bruxism, premature occlusal contacts, and occlusal interferences also contribute towards symptoms of TMD, in agreement with multiple facets of the disorder. Conclusions: Occlusal abnormalities have a significant association with TMD, but causality cannot be established with most observational studies. This review emphasizes the need for early occlusal examination and intervention to reduce TMD risk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current and Future Trends in Dentistry and Oral Health)
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Other

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18 pages, 5393 KiB  
Systematic Review
Autogenous Periosteal Graft Along with Open Flap Debridement Versus Open Flap Debridement Alone for the Treatment of Grade II Furcation Defect in Chronic Periodontitis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Swapna A. Mahale, Prasad Dhadse, Sumedha Thosar, Vedant Bhandari, Akhil Patil, Sadatullah Syed, Ranjeet Ajit Bapat, Tanay Chaubal, Sumaiya Zabin Eusufzai and Shahabe Saquib Abullais
Medicina 2025, 61(5), 905; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61050905 - 16 May 2025
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Abstract
Background and Objectives: Periodontal regeneration involves techniques intended at restoring the lost supporting tissue around a periodontally weakened tooth. These regenerative methods frequently utilize periosteal grafts to stimulate the evolvement of vital adjacent tissues. This paper intended to evaluate the use of [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Periodontal regeneration involves techniques intended at restoring the lost supporting tissue around a periodontally weakened tooth. These regenerative methods frequently utilize periosteal grafts to stimulate the evolvement of vital adjacent tissues. This paper intended to evaluate the use of autogenous periosteal grafts in treating grade II furcation defects (Glickman Classification 1953) in patients with chronic periodontitis. Materials and Methods: The databases MEDLINE (via PubMed), Cochrane, EBSCO, and Google Scholar were searched for papers published in English from January 1991 till December 2022. Three individuals examined the reclaimed articles according to the inclusion norms. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy of autogenous periosteal grafts for treating Grade II furcation defects in chronic periodontitis patients were involved. Only four related studies were identified for data extraction, involving 80 patients aged 18 to 52 years. Outcome variables measured included horizontal bone loss (HD), vertical bone loss (VD), pocket depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), bone height (BH), gingival recession (GR), plaque index (PI), and gingival index (GI). Data were examined using RevMan 5.4.1 software. Mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were employed to estimate effect sizes. Results: Both groups showed similar results for reductions in PI, GI, and BOP. However, The periosteal graft also yielded better outcomes for CAL gain, BH, and GR. The meta-analysis showed a significant overall effect of Periosteal Barrier Membrane (PBM) on horizontal and vertical bony change levels, but subgroup differences between unilateral and bilateral applications were not statistically significant due to high heterogeneity. Although the bilateral subgroup demonstrated significant benefits of PBM treatment, the overall findings across the clinical attachment level group remain inconclusive. Conclusion: Current evidence suggests that while PBM may benefit bilateral mandibular sites, and autogenous periosteal grafts offer no added advantage over OFD alone in Grade II furcation defects, the overall findings remain inconclusive. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current and Future Trends in Dentistry and Oral Health)
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