Oral — Health, Diseases, Therapies, and Technologies

Background and Objectives: This scoping review aims to synthesize evidence on clinical and non-clinical factors associated with malpractice claims in implant dentistry and to identify strategies for prevention. Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines, including peer-reviewed studies published within the last 10 years. Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Clinical causes of litigation included improper implant placement, inferior alveolar nerve injury, lack of osseointegration, peri-implant infection, and the use of inappropriate or outdated implant systems. Non-clinical factors included inadequate informed consent, poor documentation, deviation from the treatment plan, and ineffective communication. Conclusions: Malpractice in implant dentistry is largely preventable. Risk reduction depends on accurate diagnosis, careful treatment planning, adherence to surgical principles, and clear patient communication with appropriate informed consent. Full article

Background/Objectives: Surgical periodontal therapy is frequently performed when residual periodontal pockets persist after scaling and root planing (SRP). This study compared the clinical outcomes of SRP alone and SRP followed by surgical periodontal therapy in patients with stage III/IV periodontitis. Methods: A retrospective comparative study was conducted in 180 adults with stage III/IV periodontitis. Ninety patients received SRP alone, while ninety underwent SRP followed by surgical periodontal therapy when clinically indicated. Probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level/loss (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded at baseline and at a 12-week reevaluation. Results: PD reduction was significantly greater in the SRP followed by surgical therapy group than in the SRP-alone group (p < 0.001). BOP also showed a significantly greater reduction following surgical therapy (p < 0.001). CAL improved in both groups; however, the between-group difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.104). Conclusions: Both treatment approaches improved periodontal clinical parameters. However, SRP followed by surgical periodontal therapy resulted in greater reductions in probing depth and bleeding on probing, while CAL improvement was similar between groups. Full article

Aim: Root canal treatment preserves the natural tooth and avoids the consequences of extraction, yet its acceptance depends on public knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions. This cross-sectional online survey assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of Croatian adults recruited online via social media regarding root canal treatment and their association with sociodemographic characteristics. Material and Methods: A self-administered questionnaire (38 items, including an eight-item true/false knowledge scale) was distributed via social media between March and June 2025, and 1004 adults were included. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression (p < 0.05). Results: The mean knowledge score was 5.60 ± 2.45 of 8. Participants with prior endodontic experience scored higher (6.36 vs. 5.15) and answered all knowledge items correctly more often (p < 0.001). In logistic regression, a higher level of knowledge was associated with female sex (OR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.34–2.36), older age, affiliation with a medical profession (OR = 3.16; 95% CI 2.32–4.32), prior endodontic experience (OR = 2.91; 95% CI 2.18–3.90), and considering the preservation of natural teeth important. Among treated participants, the level of knowledge did not differ significantly by the type of clinician who performed the treatment. Although fear and misconceptions (e.g., that the procedure is painful) were common, 88.3% of treated participants would recommend it. Conclusions: Overall knowledge was moderate rather than low. Targeted public education—delivered primarily through the dental office and reinforced by popular-science and social-media campaigns addressing treatment indications, the role of the endodontist, and misconceptions about pain—could reduce misconceptions and support the preservation of natural teeth. Full article

Background: Surgical removal of jaw cysts may result in bone defects that compromise local structural integrity and delay spontaneous regeneration. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been proposed as a minimally invasive intraoperative adjunct capable of modulating osteogenic activity; however, translational evidence derived from freshly harvested human jawbone tissue remains limited. Objective: This study evaluated the effects of an intraoperative 980 nm PBM protocol on early osteogenic activity, osteoblast-like cell abundance, morphometric outcomes, and cell viability in primary human jawbone explants obtained during cystectomy. Materials and Methods: A comparative translational ex vivo study was conducted using cortical bone explants harvested from 40 patients undergoing surgical treatment of medium- to large-sized maxillary or mandibular cystic lesions. For each patient, one explant was exposed immediately after harvesting to pulsed 980 nm laser irradiation (20 J total energy; 40 J/cm² fluence), whereas the paired explant served as an untreated control. Explants were cultured using a primary outgrowth technique and subjected to osteogenic induction for 14 days. Osteogenic activity was evaluated by immunofluorescence staining for alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) and osteocalcin (OCN), followed by confocal microscopy and quantitative morphometric analysis. Cell viability was assessed using a live/dead fluorescence assay. Results: Viable cultures were successfully established from 34 patients (85% experimental yield). PBM-treated explants exhibited significantly greater osteoblast-like cell counts than paired controls (median: 2820 vs. 1525 cells; p < 0.001), together with greater cumulative osteoblastic area (median: 537,028 vs. 325,166 relative units; p < 0.001) and higher osteoblastic area occupancy (median: 19.00% vs. 11.75%; p < 0.001). Immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated qualitatively stronger ALPL and OCN expression in PBM-treated cultures. Cell viability did not differ significantly between paired PBM-treated and control cultures (Wilcoxon signed-rank test, p = 0.18). Conclusions: In this comparative ex vivo model, intraoperative 980 nm PBM significantly enhanced early osteogenic activity and increased osteoblast-like cellular abundance in human jawbone explants while maintaining cellular viability. These findings provide translational support for further investigation of PBM as a biostimulatory adjunct to enhance bone regeneration following cyst surgery. Full article

Background: Dementia is a major geriatric syndrome associated with nutritional vulnerability and functional decline among older adults. This study aimed to compare oral functional impairment, nutritional risk, and functional dependence according to dementia status and to examine their associations with dementia among community-dwelling older Koreans. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 10,078 adults aged ≥65 years who participated in the 2023 National Survey of Older Koreans. Dementia was defined based on self-reported physician diagnosis. Oral functional impairment, nutritional risk factors, and functional dependence, including activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), were assessed using structured survey questionnaires. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed using four sequentially adjusted models. Results: Older adults with dementia exhibited significantly greater oral functional impairment, nutritional risk, and functional dependence than those without dementia. In the fully adjusted model, denture use remained independently associated with dementia (OR = 1.692, 95% CI: 1.179–2.428). Fewer than two meals per day (OR = 3.156, 95% CI: 1.771–5.623) and difficulty shopping for or preparing meals (OR = 2.408, 95% CI: 1.648–3.520) were significantly associated with dementia. In addition, severe ADL dependence (OR = 5.895, 95% CI: 2.947–11.794) and IADL dependence (OR = 4.598, 95% CI: 3.099–6.822) showed strong associations with dementia. Conclusions: Dementia was significantly associated with oral functional impairment, nutritional risk, and functional dependence, indicating multidimensional geriatric vulnerability and highlighting the need for integrated assessment in dementia care. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) toothpaste on dentinal tubule surface area, elemental composition, and microhardness of mechanically exposed dentin. Methods: Thirty extracted human molars with standardized exposed occlusal dentin were randomly assigned to control, SDF, or nHAp groups (n = 10 each). Surface morphology and dentinal tubule area were assessed using scanning electron microscopy, elemental composition by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and microhardness by Vickers testing before and after application of SDF and nHAp. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc tests and paired t-tests (α = 0.05). Results: Baseline dentinal tubule area and microhardness were comparable among groups. SDF showed the strongest effects, reducing dentinal tubule area by 84.5% and producing the greatest microhardness increase (p < 0.001), while nHAp reduced dentinal tubule area by 45.2% and increased microhardness within the group (p < 0.001). Calcium content was highest in the SDF group (p < 0.001), whereas phosphorus showed no significant difference (p = 0.195). The Ca/P ratio differed overall (p = 0.046), mainly between Control and SDF (p = 0.024). Scanning electron microscopy confirmed dense tubule occlusion with SDF, partial occlusion with nHAp, and open tubules in controls. Conclusions: SDF produced greater dentinal tubule occlusion and microhardness improvement than nHAp toothpaste in this short-term in vitro model using mechanically exposed dentin. nHAp toothpaste produced moderate tubule occlusion and a smaller improvement in microhardness under the tested conditions. Full article

This narrative review aimed to summarize the contemporary evidence regarding the integration of periodontal and prosthodontic treatment. A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, including studies published between January 1990 and May 2026. Relevant studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, consensus reports, and clinical guidelines published in English were analyzed. Current evidence highlights the importance of comprehensive periodontal assessment before prosthodontic treatment, including evaluation of probing depth, attachment loss, furcation involvement, tooth mobility, periodontal phenotype, and oral hygiene status. Appropriate periodontal preparation and supportive periodontal care contribute significantly to the long-term success of both tooth-supported and implant-supported restorations. Successful oral rehabilitation requires close interdisciplinary collaboration between periodontology and prosthodontics. Periodontal stability, patient compliance, and long-term maintenance remain key factors for predictable treatment outcomes. Full article

Background/Objectives: The impact of non-fluoride trace metals (NFTMs) in drinking water on oral health remains an under-explored area of environmental health. This scoping review maps global evidence on the associations between non-fluoride trace metals (NFTMs) in drinking water and oral health outcomes, such as dental caries, enamel hypoplasia, and periodontal diseases. Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase was executed to identify peer-reviewed observational and experimental studies published within a 10-year window between January 2015 and December 2025. Data extraction captured geographic settings, target populations, specific metal exposures, oral health assessment indices, and observed health parameters. Results: A total of 20 studies met the inclusion criteria, consisting of 16 cross-sectional studies, 2 case–control studies, 1 prospective cohort study, and 1 experimental laboratory evaluation. Heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and arsenic (As) were frequently associated with elevated risks of dental caries and structural enamel defects, such as demarcated opacities. Conversely, elements like molybdenum (Mo) demonstrated potential inverse, protective associations with caries prevalence. Most of the evidence relies on cross-sectional designs, which limits the ability to infer temporal pathways or direct biological causation. Conclusions: The mapped literature indicates that non-fluoride trace metals in drinking water are associated with shifts in oral health outcomes. However, substantial heterogeneity in exposure pathways, geographic variability, and the lack of standardized mixture-risk assessments limit definitive conclusions. Future prospective epidemiological tracking and standardized multi-metal exposure models are required to clarify these environmental pathways. Full article

Background/Objectives: We analyzed 6555 written motivational interviewing (MI) skill attempts from 437 second-year dental students to (a) construct an inductive taxonomy of skill-enactment errors, (b) test whether error prevalence decreased after instruction, and (c) determine whether formative-error profiles predicted summative performance. Methods: We used a mixed-methods design. Students responded to patient prompts using specific MI skills (open-ended questions, affirmations, and reflections; 4 per skill) after brief instruction (T1) and during a midterm examination (T2; 3 items). Claude Artificial Intelligence (AI) performed initial coding using a qualitative constant-comparison protocol; the code registry reached saturation at n = 200. Five independent human coders validated the AI-generated codes. Results: Claude AI coded MI skill attempts with high agreement with the gold standard (linearly weighted kappa = 0.93). The two most prevalent (of seven derived) errors at T1 were the fixing reflex (advising or correcting the patient; 79%) and responding to or eliciting sustain talk (75%). All error types decreased significantly by T2 (ps < 0.001). Structural errors (e.g., wrong form) fell below 8%, whereas the fixing reflex (16%) and sustain-talk responding (52%) proved more durable. Latent profile analysis identified three groups: Attuned (64%; hallmark: successful enactment), Misaligned (17%; hallmark: fixing reflex), and Unanchored (18%; hallmark: generic responding). Misaligned students scored significantly lower at T2; Unanchored students matched the Attuned group. Conclusions: Structural errors yield to standard teaching, whereas the fixing reflex and sustain-talk responding require deliberate practice focused on subcomponents of affirming and reflecting. AI made it possible to provide individualized, criterion-referenced feedback to 437 students and to systematically code nearly 7000 responses. Full article

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a chronic orofacial pain condition characterized by persistent burning sensations in the absence of consistently identifiable pathology. This mismatch between severe symptoms and inconclusive findings challenges conventional diagnostic reasoning, which presumes that subjective complaints reflect underlying biological lesions—leading to repeated investigations, diagnostic delay, and uncertainty about symptom legitimacy. This paper uses BMS as a paradigmatic case to question a core assumption of clinical reasoning: that objective pathology constitutes primary evidence. In this Perspective, drawing on phenomenology and medical anthropology, we argue that when pathology is indeterminate, illness—the lived experience of suffering—must be treated as primary clinical evidence rather than as a secondary expression of disease. We propose a bidirectional conceptual framework in which physiological processes, psychological states, and lived experience interact dynamically, with symptoms actively participating in the maintenance of the condition. This framework explains persistent diagnostic uncertainty, heterogeneous treatment responses, and the clinical significance of validation and meaning-making. Reframing BMS in this way supports earlier recognition, reduces reliance on exclusion-based strategies, and justifies multimodal interventions addressing both biological and experiential dimensions of pain. More broadly, it suggests that clinical reasoning must expand to incorporate lived experience as indispensable evidence wherever pathology is indeterminate. Full article

Background: This study investigated the association between different teaching modalities and undergraduate dental students’ confidence during the transition from simulation-based training to clinical practice, as well as perceived preparedness for clinical practice. Objectives: The aims were two-fold: (1) To evaluate the impact of different teaching modalities on the students’ confidence during this transition, and (2) to explore differences in supervisor and peer assessments following the implementation of different teaching modalities. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 33 students allocated to three groups: Group A (flipped classroom (FC) and asynchronous learning (AL), n = 11), Group B (FC only, n = 12) and a Control group (access to online e-learning modules only, n = 10). Confidence levels were measured longitudinally at baseline, after their allocated interventions, and pre- and post-clinical stages, alongside supervisor and peer assessments. Data were analysed longitudinally within each group throughout the observation period and between groups at similar timepoints. These analyses were based on self-confidence survey measurements collected throughout the study. Results: A statistically significant overall increase in confidence was observed across all groups over the study period (p < 0.05), with the greatest improvement observed after the clinical session. Students in AL and FC groups demonstrated a general rise in confidence from baseline to post-FC. However, both groups exhibited a consistent, modest decline in confidence at the preclinical stage. This decline may be attributed to the prolonged interval between FC sessions and clinical exposure, and heightened anxiety in an unfamiliar clinical setting. No statistically significant differences in confidence were found between groups, likely due to the limited sample size. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, FC and AL methodologies demonstrate potential in enhancing self-directed learning and boosting confidence by supporting the progressive development of competence and safe, holistic patient-centered practice. These approaches may better prepare students for the challenges of clinical dental practice and the rapidly changing professional landscape. Full article

Background/Objectives: Sjögren’s disease (SjD) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by a wide range of clinical manifestations, often leading to delayed diagnosis. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients with primary and secondary SjD and those with sicca symptoms without SjD. Methods: This comparative cross-sectional study included 84 participants enrolled between 2019 and 2024: 27 patients with primary Sjögren’s disease (pSjD), 4 with secondary Sjögren’s disease (sSjD), and 53 with sicca symptoms without SjD (non-SjD/NSjD). Primary SjD was diagnosed according to the 2016 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) classification criteria. Results: Compared with NSjD patients, those with pSjD and sSjD had significantly lower unstimulated whole saliva (UWS) and stimulated whole saliva (SWS) flow rates (p < 0.001), a higher prevalence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) (twice as frequent) (p = 0.005), and higher frequencies of anti-SSA/Ro60, anti-SSA/Ro52, anti-SSB/La, and rheumatoid factor (RF) positivity (p = 0.002, p = 0.003, p = 0.005, and p = 0.019, respectively). In addition, SjD patients had higher EULAR Sjögren’s Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) scores (p = 0.026) and more frequently demonstrated a focus score (FS) ≥ 1 on minor labial salivary gland (MLSG) biopsy (p < 0.001). Serum vitamin D levels were lower in pSjD patients than in NSjD patients; however, the difference was not statistically significant (57.8 ± 20.4 vs. 70.6 ± 18.3; p = 0.259). Conclusions: Patients with pSjD exhibited distinct clinical and laboratory characteristics compared with those with sicca symptoms without SjD. Sialometry, anti-SSA antibodies, and MLSG biopsy were identified as the most important diagnostic tools for differentiating SjD from NSjD. Full article

Background: Peg-shaped maxillary lateral incisors are among the most common developmental anomalies affecting the anterior dentition and are frequently associated with Bolton tooth-size discrepancies and severe crowding. Treatment planning in these patients requires careful management of esthetics, occlusion, periodontal health, and anchorage control during space closure. Case Presentation: A 17-year-old female patient presented with bilateral peg-shaped maxillary lateral incisors, severe maxillary and mandibular crowding, deep bite, mild skeletal Class II relationship, and proclined mandibular incisors. Three treatment options were considered, including restorative enlargement of the lateral incisors, extraction of both peg-shaped lateral incisors with space closure, and extraction of the maxillary right lateral incisor followed by unilateral space closure and restorative enlargement of the contralateral lateral incisor. The selected treatment involved extraction of the peg-shaped maxillary lateral incisors followed by orthodontic space closure and canine substitution. Skeletal anchorage with temporary anchorage devices (TADs) was used to optimize biomechanical control during anterior space closure and midline correction. A maxillary TAD placed between the central incisors provided anchorage during mesial movement of the posterior segments, while bilateral mandibular TADs were used to control lower incisor proclination during leveling and alignment. Results: Treatment resulted in satisfactory alignment, correction of crowding, improvement of sagittal occlusal relationships, and achievement of stable intercuspation. Cephalometric analysis demonstrated improvement of the skeletal relationship (ANB from 5° to 3.5°) with maintenance of a balanced facial profile and favorable nasolabial angle. Despite the extraction-based mechanics, maxillary incisor torque was preserved and slightly increased. Conclusions: Extraction of peg-shaped maxillary lateral incisors combined with skeletal anchorage-assisted space closure may represent an effective and clinically efficient treatment option in patients with severe crowding and tooth-size discrepancy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Radiation protection in dental medicine is based on the principles of justification and optimization, yet available evidence indicates inconsistent application of these principles in everyday practice. The aim of this systematic review was to assess dentists’ understanding of radiation protection and their adherence to guidelines for justification and optimization of dental X-ray procedures. Methods: A systematic search of the PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted from January 2010 to April 2026, following PRISMA guidelines. The systematic review included surveys and cross-sectional studies that examined dentists’ knowledge of radiation protection, as well as justification and optimization practices. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale adapted for cross-sectional studies. Results: The systematic review included 22 original scientific articles that assessed knowledge of radiation protection, justification, and optimization practices among 5277 dentists from 12 countries. The findings indicate a high theoretical understanding of the basic rules of radiation protection, but a lower level of understanding of the technical and optimization factors of dental X-ray devices. A relevant inconsistency was observed in the justification process, with frequent referral for X-ray imaging without clinical indication and inconsistent adherence to guidelines. The optimization of X-ray imaging varied, especially in failing to adjust exposure parameters and in the restricted use of rectangular collimators. Inadequate quality control of X-ray devices and insufficient continuous professional training in radiation protection and imaging optimization are examples of organizational and infrastructural factors that lead to higher radiation exposure. Conclusions: Although many guidelines exist, there remains a noteworthy disparity between theoretical understanding and clinical practice in dental radiation protection. To reduce patients’ and dentists’ exposure to ionizing radiation, it is important to include radiation protection education in the basic dental curriculum, establish and improve continuous training, standardize clinical procedures, and enable broader application of systems for optimization and quality control. Full article

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the chromatic effect of two post-curing protocols, (1) manufacturer-recommended standard post-curing (SPC) and (2) standard post-curing plus an additional post-curing cycle (APC), on three types of 3D-printed resins for provisional crowns. Methods: Ninety provisional crowns were printed (n = 30 per resin type-Power Resins Temp, Freeprint Temp, and NextDent C&B) and divided into two groups: SPC (19 min at 30 °C, n = 15 per group) and APC (19 min + 19 min at 30 °C, n = 15 per group). Color coordinates (L*, a*, and b*) were recorded using a spectrophotometer before and after each post-curing protocol to calculate the total color difference (ΔE). Data were analyzed using paired t-test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and one-way ANOVA (α = 0.05). Results: After APC, statistically significant changes were observed in the b* coordinate, indicating a lower yellowing tendency for Freeprint Temp (p = 0.018) and NextDent C&B (p = 0.023). No significant changes were found in L* and a* coordinates. However, the total color difference (ΔE) remained below the clinical acceptability threshold (ΔE < 3.3) in all groups. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in ΔE between the resin brands (p = 0.914). Conclusions: An additional post-curing protocol is a safe procedure from a chromatic standpoint, as it does not compromise the chromatic esthetic outcomes of 3D provisional resins. Clinical Significance: The additional post-curing protocol does not compromise the immediate aesthetic appearance of 3D-printed provisional resins, confirming its optical safety during laboratory processing. Nevertheless, validating its long-term mechanical stability and behavior under simulated oral conditions remains necessary prior to full clinical implementation. Full article

Background: Composite attachments play a key role in clear aligner biomechanics; however, their structural stability and wear behavior under repetitive insertion–removal cycles remain poorly understood. Limited evidence exists regarding how composite resins degrade volumetrically and whether such changes influence aligner retention during simulated clinical use. This study evaluated the performance of three commonly used composites for orthodontic attachments. Methods: Digital hemi-arch models were 3D printed and attachments were fabricated using two low-viscosity composites (Transbond™ Supreme LV and Filtek™ Bulk Fill Flow) and one high-viscosity composite (Filtek™ Z250XT). Baseline attachment volumes were assessed using micro-computed tomography (microCT). Nine aligners per model were fabricated to simulate three months of treatment, with each aligner subjected to 30 insertion–removal cycles (270 cycles/model). The maximum tensile force required for aligner detachment was recorded for every cycle. Following mechanical testing, attachments underwent post-test microCT scanning. Intragroup volumetric changes were analyzed using paired t-tests; intergroup differences were assessed with ANOVA, followed by ANCOVA. Tensile-force patterns were evaluated using repeated-measures ANOVA. Results: Significant volumetric loss occurred for Transbond™ Supreme LV and Filtek™ Z250XT, whereas Filtek™ Bulk Fill Flow exhibited minimal wear. Nonetheless, intergroup volumetric differences were not statistically significant. Tensile forces were statistically different between groups for most measurements, yet within each set of 30 cycles, they exhibited a similar pattern of progressively decreasing force. Conclusions: During the simulated three-month period, all three composite resins exhibited some degree of volumetric wear and a progressive decrease in aligner detachment force within each set of cycles. The Filtek™ Bulk Fill Flow exhibited numerically higher and more consistent forces and minimal surface wear; however, no statistically significant differences were observed in total volumetric loss among groups, and the observed variations in tensile forces did not appear to compromise the overall performance of attachments, suggesting that all tested resins maintained clinically relevant retention under the conditions of this study. Full article

Background: Severe maxillary atrophy remains a major challenge for implant-supported rehabilitation, often requiring complex grafting procedures or zygomatic implants associated with increased surgical morbidity. Advances in digital planning and additive manufacturing have enabled the development of patient-specific subperiosteal implants supported by cortical bone anchorage. Materials and Methods: This study presents a fully digital workflow combining customized subperiosteal implants (SP3D) with guided pterygoid fixation (PT3D) to achieve stable distal support and allow immediate loading in severely atrophic maxillae. Results: Nine patients presenting with advanced maxillary atrophy were treated using computer-assisted design, guided surgery, and immediate prosthetic rehabilitation. All implants were successfully placed according to the digital plan, achieving stable fixation through bilateral pterygoid engagement. No major intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. Immediate loading was performed in all cases with stable prosthetic outcomes during the follow-up period (average follow-up period was 12.7 months). Conclusions: The combined SP3D–PT3D approach represents a minimally invasive alternative for full-arch rehabilitation in extreme maxillary atrophy, potentially reducing the need for bone grafting while improving surgical predictability and biomechanical stability. Full article

Background/Objectives: One-piece (monoblock) dental implants are increasingly used, particularly in patients with limited bone availability. Prosthetic alignment is often achieved via plastic deformation of the titanium implant. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of such deformation-induced residual stress on the corrosion resistance of these implants. Methods: Two types of monoblock dental implants (spherical “S” and Mag-Conical “M”) were subjected to controlled plastic deformation. Residual stress was quantified by X-ray diffraction using the Bragg–Brentano method. Electrochemical behavior was evaluated by measuring the open-circuit potential (E_OCP) and performing potentiodynamic polarization tests in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) at 37 °C. Metal ion release (Ti, V, Al) was quantified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) at specific immersion time points. Surface morphology and corrosion features were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: Residual stress values increased significantly after plastic deformation. The open-circuit potential (E_OCP) shifted towards more electronegative values in both implant designs as deformation-induced residual stresses increased. The E_OCP values shifted from −0.099 V to −0.227 V in the S design and from −0.115 V to −0.141 V in the M design, comparing the as-received condition with the deformed state, respectively. Potentiodynamic tests showed an increase in corrosion rate from 0.0021 mm/year for the original implants to 0.0156 mm/year for the deformed ones. Surfaces in the stressed regions exhibited a high density of corrosion pits, indicating localized electrochemical degradation. Deformed dental implants also exhibited higher ion release, particularly of titanium and vanadium, with higher levels observed in implants with greater residual stress and lower corrosion resistance. In the deformed regions, the release of titanium and vanadium ions into the surrounding medium was nearly five-fold higher. Conclusions: Plastic deformation of monoblock dental implants is associated with reduced corrosion resistance. Increased residual stress correlates with enhanced electrochemical degradation and ion release, which may have relevant implications for implant selection and clinical placement. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study compared the capabilities of four periodontal assessment instruments (CP11 probe, WHO probe, explorer, and #11/12 explorer) to detect subgingival calculus and assess calculus morphology when used by dental hygienists, with a focus on their clinical and educational relevance. Methods: Typodont models with artificially placed subgingival calculus of various shapes were used by 27 dental hygienists to assess the presence and morphology of calculus using each instrument, and a questionnaire on the usability of the #11/12 explorer was completed. Results: Subgingival calculus detection rates did not significantly differ between instruments in either entire mandibular jaw model or individual anterior and posterior regions. Calculus morphology detection did not differ for the entire model or anterior regions but did significantly differ in posterior regions, with the #11/12 explorer showing the highest detection accuracy. Morphology-dependent differences were observed between CP-11 and WHO probes. Qualitative analysis of free-text responses regarding #11/12 explorer use with KH Coder identified clusters related to tactile perception, operability, and experiential/educational aspects. Conclusions: Although the overall calculus detection performance did not significantly differ among the instruments, the #11/12 explorer demonstrated higher detection accuracy in the posterior regions and was favorably rated in terms of tactile feedback and operability. These findings suggest that the #11/12 explorer may be a useful instrument for subgingival calculus assessment and may have educational value for developing tactile assessment skills. Full article