Search Results (11)

Within the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders, masticatory myalgia is framed around muscle hyperactivity, yet a recognizable subgroup shows the opposite profile—low muscle tone, fatigue, masticatory pain, and a persistent sense that the bite no longer fits, without structural dental change—and responds poorly to conventional conservative care. We introduce G-SCORE (Gum-chewing-mediated Sensorimotor Calibration of Occlusion through Rhythmic Exercise), a proprioceptive recalibration strategy delivered as a bilateral gum-chewing (BGC) protocol: two equal halves of one sugar-free gum chewed simultaneously and symmetrically on both posterior segments in short, patient-titrated sessions, delivering balanced, rhythmic, low-load input to the trigeminal sensorimotor system. In a retrospective series of 41 patients, we characterized within-subject changes in pain, mandibular mobility, and occlusal parameters. Masticatory pain fell from 5.0 ± 2.9 to 0.7 ± 0.9 (0–10; n = 27; p < 0.001; r = 0.87), with 85% achieving a ≥2-point reduction. Occluding tooth positions and mouth opening also recovered; in an anterior open-bite subgroup, overbite improved (n = 6; p = 0.031). The observed changes were dominated by pain relief and restored bilateral occlusal contact rather than by raw force—a pattern more compatible with sensorimotor recalibration than with muscle hypertrophy. This low-cost, non-invasive technique may help selected patients avoid irreversible occlusal treatment. Full article

Background/Objectives: The trigeminal (CN V) and facial (CN VII) nerves are conventionally taught as separate pathways, yet extensive peripheral anastomoses form sensorimotor plexuses throughout the face. These communications provide the anatomical substrate for proprioception in facial muscles that paradoxically lack muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs. This review aims to synthesise the anatomical, histological, and clinical evidence on these interconnections and to evaluate their implications across surgery, radiology, neurology, and dentistry. Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched for cadaveric dissection studies, Sihler whole-mount staining investigations, immunohistochemical analyses, quantitative axonal mapping studies, and clinical case series addressing trigeminal–facial communications and their diagnostic significance. Results: Twenty peripheral anastomoses were systematically identified and mapped, with prevalence ranging from reported-constant in multiple cadaveric series (auriculotemporal–facial trunk; mental–marginal mandibular) to variable (29–86%, depending on trigeminal division and method; V2 by cadaveric dissection, V1 by Sihler staining). Immunohistochemical evidence supports sensorimotor fibre interchange, and recent axonal mapping has revealed that the extracranial facial nerve is a mixed nerve containing motor, sympathetic, and afferent components. Clinically, these anastomoses are implicated in spontaneous facial recovery, trigeminal motor branch transfers, perineural tumour spread, local anaesthesia effects, synkinesis, and Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Conclusions: Available anatomical and histological evidence is consistent with the view that the trigeminal and facial nerves form a functionally integrated unit, though the functional significance of specific communications remains method-dependent. Recognition of these communications is relevant for surgeons, radiologists, neurologists, and dental practitioners managing facial conditions. Full article

Autogenous tooth transplantation offers a biologically favorable approach to tooth replacement, preserving the periodontal ligament, promoting alveolar development, and maintaining proprioception. Background/Objectives: Its broader clinical applicability is limited by variability in techniques and outcome definitions. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the clinical success of autogenous tooth transplantation across donor tooth types, developmental stages, surgical techniques, and fixation methods. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and a PROSPERO-registered protocol (CRD42024625550), five databases and the gray literature were searched through July 2025. Eligible studies reported clinical outcomes for autogenous tooth transplantation. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. A random-effects meta-analysis of logit-transformed proportions was conducted, with subgroup and sensitivity analyses by tooth type, root development stage, surgical technique, and fixation method. Results: Twenty studies involving 1366 transplanted teeth were included. The pooled success rate was 94.0% (95% CI: 22.5–99.9%) across follow-up periods ranging from one month to twenty-nine years. However, interpretation is limited by distinct heterogeneity (I² = 99.8%) and the wide confidence interval. Subgroup analyses by tooth type, root maturity, surgical technique, and fixation method are, therefore, emphasized to support clinical interpretation. Conclusions: Autogenous tooth transplantation achieves consistently high success across clinical contexts when biologic handling is respected. These findings support its broader use in dental and orthodontic practice and underscore the need for standardized outcome reporting and prospective research. Interpretation is limited by heterogeneity and variation in reporting standards. Full article

Trigeminal somatosensory-evoked potentials (TSEPs) provide valuable insight into neural responses to oral stimuli. This study investigates TSEP recording methods and their impact on interpreting results in clinical settings to improve the development process of neurostimulation-based therapies. The experiments and results presented here aim at identifying appropriate stimulation characteristics to design an active dental prosthesis capable of contributing to restoring the lost neurosensitive connection between the teeth and the brain. Two methods of TSEP acquisition, traditional and occluded, were used, each conducted by a different volunteer. Traditional TSEP acquisition involves stimulation at different sites with varying parameters to achieve a control base. In contrast, occluded TSEPs examine responses acquired under low- and high-force bite conditions to assess the influence of periodontal mechanoreceptors and muscle activation on measurements. Traditional TSEPs demonstrated methodological feasibility with satisfactory results despite a limited subject pool. However, occluded TSEPs presented challenges in interpreting results, with responses deviating from expected norms, particularly under high force conditions, due to the simultaneous occurrence of stimulation and dental occlusion. While traditional TSEPs highlight methodological feasibility, the occluded approach highlights complexities in outcome interpretation and urges caution in clinical application. Previously unreported results were achieved, which underscores the importance of conducting further research with larger sample sizes and refined protocols in order to strengthen the reliability and validity of TSEP assessments. Full article

Background: Mandibular movement is inherently complex, involving both lateral and vertical components. In older adults, this complexity is compounded by diminished neuromuscular coordination and reduced proprioceptive feedback, often impairing effective mastication. Objectives: This study aimed to review dental literature on the influence of masticatory parameters in the formation of wear facets on acrylic resin denture teeth. Methods: A targeted literature review was conducted, analyzing peer-reviewed studies from 1991 to 2024 through PubMed and Scopus. The review focused on masticatory parameters, age-related neuromuscular adaptations, chewing patterns, and preferred-side denture tooth wear, affecting older adults using complete removable dentures. Results: Mandibular movement characteristics—particularly velocity, duration, and cycle frequency—were found to significantly influence denture tooth wear, often resulting in reduced bite force and masticatory efficiency. Contemporary denture materials demonstrated improved wear resistance, aiding in the regulation of chewing frequency and velocity. These factors are increasingly important as age-related changes impact the stomatognathic system. Notably, wear facets were most prominent on the maxillary first molars, regardless of the occlusal scheme. Conclusions: This review provided a comprehensive overview of existing research, analyzed current evidence, and offered insights into the role of masticatory function and wear characteristics in older complete denture wearers. Full article

The biophysiological differences between teeth and dental implants and the issue of occlusal overload, although controversial, form the basis for the management of occlusion in implant-supported full-arch fixed dental prostheses (ISFAFDPs). Although there is currently a lack of scientific evidence on occlusal management, it is clear that the favorable prognosis of ISFAFDPs is linked to a correct understanding of the biomechanical principles involved. In the design of ISFAFDPs, the lack of proprioceptive feedback requires special attention to biomechanical factors: minimizing overloading complications and providing biomechanical stability are among the main goals of the occlusion. In ISFAFDPs, the occlusion must be decided on the basis of several factors that influence the loads on prosthesis and implants: each case must be evaluated individually and requires a personalized occlusion. The main aim of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the occlusal principles and materials that can be used in ISFAFDPs based on the data currently available in the literature. Practical clinical recommendations for the occlusion management of ISFAFDPs and a biomechanical risk score index to personalize implant-prosthetic treatment are proposed. Full article

Background and Objectives: Functional rehabilitation in patients with hemimandibulectomy remains a challenge no matter what method of reconstruction is chosen by physicians. In this paper, we aim to evaluate the feasibility of an acceptable occlusal restoration in patients who have undergone hemimanidublectomy without the reestablishment of mandibular continuity. Materials and Methods: Data were collected retrospectively on 10 patients with varying degrees of mandible resection. The greatest challenge in the restoration of an acceptable occlusion form is the natural latero-deviation that occurs in patients whose mandibular continuity was not restored. This causes an unbalanced and uncoordinated occlusal plane. Based on our research, this deviation is highly dependent on three main factors: the presence of teeth (which allow for a proprioceptive stimulus that counteracts the deviation), the extension of the defect and the presence or lack of the coronoid process. Results: Based on the presence of dental elements or lack thereof, patients were either rehabilitated with implant-supported dentures or removable partial dentures. Although the gold standard of care for these patients remains the restoration of mandible continuity through use of bone grafts, an acceptable rehabilitation of occlusion and therefore function may be acquired in non-grafted patients. Conclusions: Both physicians and patients must manage their expectations carefully and be eager to find a compromise to provide the best possible solution given the challenges of the premises. Full article

Two cases of calcified bone and dental tissue integration with titanium implants are presented, along with a review of the literature on their experimental and clinical implications. First, histological analyses of a titanium implant extracted from a patient with iimplant disease revealed the integration of both dental and bone tissue on the implant’s surface. Secondly, a biocompatibility study in an animal model documented two implants in contact with tooth roots. Samples from both animal and human models demonstrated simultaneous osseointegration and dental tissue neoformation, with the latter attributed to the activity of cementoblasts. The literature review confirms the formation of cementum around dental implants in contact with teeth. Certain clinical reports have proposed the insertion of implants into bone sites containing impacted teeth as a conservative treatment alternative, avoiding the need for tooth extraction surgery and demonstrating the successful integration of teeth, bone, and dental implants. Furthermore, the documented natural formation of periodontal tissues around dental implants provided a foundation for tissue engineering studies aimed at realizing implant–bone relationships similar to those of natural bone–tooth structures. The primary challenges remain the long-term preservation of periodontal-like tissue formed on implants and the imparting of functional proprioceptive properties. Full article

The periodontal tissue is made up of supporting tissues and among its functions, it promotes viscoelastic properties, proprioceptive sensors, and dental anchorage. Its progressive destruction by disease leads to the loss of bone and periodontal ligaments. For this reason, biomaterials are constantly being developed to restore tissue function. Various techniques are being used to promote regenerative dentistry, including 3D bioprinting with bioink formulations. This paper aims to review the different types of bioink formulations and 3D bioprinting techniques used in periodontal tissue regeneration. Different techniques have been formulated, and the addition of different materials into bioinks has been conducted, with the intention of improving the process and creating a bioink that supports cell viability, proliferation, differentiation, and stability for periodontal tissue regeneration. Full article

Background and Objectives: Proprioceptive information from natural dentition and adjacent oral tissues enables correct masticatory function, avoiding damage to the teeth. Periodontium is the main source of this relevant information, and when a tooth is lost, all this proprioceptive sensibility relies on receptors from muscles, the mucous membrane or the temporomandibular joint, and this sensibility gets worse. Active tactile sensibility measures this proprioceptive capability in microns by psychophysical studies consisting of introducing thin metal foils between patients’ dental arches during chewing to see if they are able to notice them or not. Osseoperception is a complex phenomenon that seems to improve this sensibility in patients wearing dental implants. The objective of this investigation is to measure this sensibility in different prosthetic situations by performing a psychophysical investigation. Material and Methods: We divided 67 patients in three groups depending on their prosthetic situation and performed a psychophysical study by introducing aluminium foils of different thicknesses in order to establish an active tactile sensibility threshold in every group. We also measured variables such as prosthetic wearing time, age or gender to see how they may influence threshold values. We used Student’s t-test and Mann–Whitney U tests to analyse these results. Results: Active tactile sensibility threshold values in implants are lower than those from complete dentures but higher than values in natural dentition. However, values in implants are closer to natural dentition than complete denture values. Age, gender or prosthetic wearing time have no influence in active tactile sensibility thresholds. Conclusion: Active tactile sensibility threshold values depend on prosthetic rehabilitations and the mechanoreceptors involved in every situation. Implant prosthesis presents an increased active tactile sensibility thanks to osseoperception phenomenon. Full article

Study Design: Autotransplantation, if possible, is a viable option for replacing a missing tooth when a donor tooth is available. The most typical tooth transplant is the transfer of a third molar to a first molar site. No immune reaction results from transplants of this nature. It restores the proprioceptive function and normal periodontal healing; thus, the patient can have a natural chewing feeling and natural biological response. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the prognosis of autotransplanted mandibular third molar and also to evaluate the cost effectiveness of the treatment performed when compared to the other treatment modalities for prosthetic rehabilitation. Methods: A prospective studywas done in theDepartment ofOral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Sardar Patel PostGraduate Institute of Dental &Medical Sciences, Lucknow,UP, India, with over 20 patients to evaluate the prognosis of autotransplanted mandibular third molars with complete root formation after atraumatic extraction of first or second mandibular molar, which were randomly selected irrespective of race, sex, caste, and socio-economic status. Regular clinical and radiographical examinations were performed over a period of 1 year and the patients were assessed for pain, swelling, infection, dry socket, periodontal pocket depth, ankylosis, root resorption, tooth mobility, and level of buccal bone in relation to cementoenamel junction (CEJ). Results: Eighteen out of 20 transplants were successful; only 2 mandibular transplants were extracted because of abnormal horizontal and axial mobility and the reason of failure was attributed to fact that the roots of transplant were short and conical and there was lack of alveolar bone height at the recipient site in one patient, while root resorption was the reason for failure of transplant in the other patient. Conclusions: This study assessed the efficacy of autotransplantation of molars and the viability of the procedure to replace unrestorable molar teeth; it also supports the hypothesis that transplantation of a mandibular third molar for replacement of a lost or seriously damaged molar tooth could be a reasonable alternative. Full article