Search Results (2,834)

Oral diseases, such as periodontitis, remain a major global concern due to their high incidence and significant morbidity. The principal drivers are bacterial overgrowth and associated inflammation. Bioactive glass of the 45S5 Bioglass^® composition (BG) is known for its remineralising, osteogenic and antibacterial effects via ion release, but its application has been limited in oral environments. In this study, a photocurable GelMA hydrogel was developed as a carrier matrix for BG (1–15% w/v) to obtain synergy between the adhesive properties of the GelMA and the bioactivity of the glass. Incorporation of 10% w/v BG improved ultimate tensile strength (97 kPa) compared to pure GelMA (58 kPa) and reduced swelling by 18%. The composites showed ~60% higher adhesive strength on collagen sheets than GelMA alone. Tensile bonding strengths reached 54 kPa on collagen sheets and 23 kPa on tooth sections. Lap-shear adhesive strengths were 44 kPa on collagen and 18 kPa on implant metal. In vitro studies confirmed the composite’s biocompatibility with dental pulp stem cells and antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Overall, the GelMA/BG composite presents a multifunctional platform for dental remineralisation with promising mechanical, adhesive and antibacterial performance. Full article

Cognitive impairment is a growing concern in rapidly aging societies, including China, and oral health has been proposed as a modifiable correlate of cognitive aging; however, few studies compare distinct oral health domains within the same older population or identify the subgroups in which associations are strongest. We analyzed data from 1707 community-dwelling adults aged 55+ in the 2022 Lifelong Learning and Productive Aging Survey of Shanghai (LEAP-SH) study. Cognitive problems were measured with the Ascertain Dementia 8 (AD8) total score (0–8; higher = worse). Self-reported oral health, oral health knowledge, and oral hygiene behavior were each standardized and entered in separate models adjusted for sociodemographic and health covariates; interaction models tested effect modification by six sociodemographic moderators. All three domains were associated with lower AD8 scores, most strongly oral health status (β = −0.26; p < 0.001), followed by oral health knowledge (β = −0.14; p = 0.004) and oral hygiene behavior (β = −0.10; p = 0.036). Associations were broadly consistent across subgroups; only two interactions, both involving knowledge, were nominally significant, and neither survived correction for multiple comparisons. Oral health may be a modifiable correlate of cognitive aging, although the cross-sectional design precludes causal inference. Full article

Background: Geranium robertianum L. (GR) is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family, widely distributed across temperate regions of Europe, Asia, North Africa, and America. It has been used in traditional ethnomedicine for its antibacterial, haemostatic, and anti-allergic properties in the treatment of oropharyngeal conditions, wounds, and inflammatory diseases. Beyond these traditional applications, pharmacological studies have documented several biological activities of its extracts and constituents. Objective: The aim of this review is to evaluate the therapeutic potential of GR by examining the phytochemical composition and the pharmacological properties relevant to dental medicine. Methods: A literature screening was conducted (PubMed, Google Scholar, PubMed Central), with focus on studies concerning phytochemical composition, pharmacological effects, and potential applications of GR and its major bioactive constituents in oral health. Results: Phytochemical analysis reveals that GR is characterized by a rich content of polyphenols, particularly tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, with geraniin, ellagic acid, gallic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol identified as its principal bioactive constituents. Recent studies have confirmed that these constituents are responsible for the plant’s therapeutic potential in oral medicine. These compounds possess a variety of effects, from antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to antifungal and antiviral activities, as well as antioxidant, wound-healing, and anticancer benefits relevant to dental medicine. Conclusions: Despite its long-standing traditional use, GR remains largely underexplored in the context of oral health. This gap in the literature highlights GR as a promising phytotherapeutic candidate, calling for further in vitro and in vivo studies in order to investigate its efficacy and establish its mechanism of action in dental medicine. Full article

Fermented foods contain diverse microorganisms that may influence oral microbial ecology and contribute to oral health. This narrative review aimed to examine the current evidence regarding microorganisms present in fermented foods and their role in oral health promotion. Twenty relevant clinical, experimental, observational, and review studies published between 2016 and 2026 were identified through a structured literature search and critically synthesized according to major thematic areas, including oral microbiota modulation, dental caries prevention, periodontal health, probiotic delivery systems, and evidence from review articles. The findings appear to indicate that fermented food-derived microorganisms may reduce cariogenic and periodontal pathogens, modulate oral biofilms, improve gingival health, and promote microbial homeostasis. Yogurt, kefir, fermented dairy products, and kimchi-derived microorganisms were the most frequently investigated sources. Emerging evidence further suggests that the benefits of these microorganisms are linked to ecological regulation of the oral microbiome and host–microbe interactions rather than direct antimicrobial activity alone. Microorganisms associated with fermented foods may therefore represent promising functional dietary components for supporting oral health and complementing preventive oral healthcare strategies. Further well-designed clinical studies are needed to establish strain-specific recommendations and explore the potential of postbiotic applications in dentistry. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the interaction between periodontal disease, sleep quality, and quality of life and to investigate the effects of the presence and severity of periodontal disease on individuals’ sleep patterns and oral health-related quality of life. Materials and Methods: A total of 195 individuals were included in the study. Participants’ sociodemographic data and dental habits were recorded. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), while the impact of oral health on quality of life was evaluated using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14). Results: A significant difference was observed in OHIP-14 scores among the groups (p < 0.001), with median values of 6, 13, and 22 in the healthy, gingivitis, and periodontitis groups, respectively. OHIP-14 scores also increased significantly with the stage and grade of periodontitis (p < 0.001). PSQI scores differed significantly among the groups (p < 0.001), with median values of 4, 8, and 10 in the healthy, gingivitis, and periodontitis groups, respectively. However, no significant differences were observed in total PSQI scores across the stages or grades of periodontitis. In addition, a strong positive correlation was found between total PSQI and OHIP-14 scores (r = 0.63, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis confirmed that periodontal status remained independently associated with both PSQI and OHIP-14 scores after adjusting for age, sex, education level, and smoking status, with periodontitis showing the strongest association in both models (PSQI: B = 5.03; OHIP-14: B = 15.80, both p < 0.001). Conclusions: A significant relationship was identified between periodontal disease, sleep quality, and oral health-related quality of life. Furthermore, the strong positive correlation between sleep quality and oral health-related quality of life suggests that deterioration in sleep quality may be associated with poorer oral health-related quality of life. These findings indicate that periodontal health is not limited to oral tissues but is also closely associated with an individual’s overall well-being. Full article

Background/Objectives: Gingival recession frequently affects the anterior mandibular region. Anatomical features, such as thin buccal bone, narrow keratinized gingiva, and root proximity, increase susceptibility to periodontal disease. Recession can progress over time and may be exacerbated by orthodontic treatment. However, it remains uncertain whether the severity of crowding before treatment contributes to recession after orthodontic therapy The present study aimed to determine whether a relationship exists between the degree of mandibular anterior crowding before orthodontic treatment and the development or progression of gingival recession after treatment completion. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 269 participants with pre- and post-treatment records. The Little’s irregularity index was used to assess the degree of crowding. Clinical photographs of the six mandibular anterior teeth (1614 sites) were digitally calibrated permit millimeter-based assessment of gingival recession and keratinized tissue (KT) width. Oral hygiene (OH) was also evaluated at both time points. Results: Post-treatment recession was detected in 76 teeth. (4.7% of sites) among 48 participants (17.8%). Pretreatment crowding severity was not significantly associated with the occurrence of recession after treatment. Pretreatment mucogingival deformities were independently associated with post-treatment gingival recession. Mandibular central incisors demonstrated the highest prevalence of post-treatment gingival recession. Conclusions: Pretreatment mandibular anterior did not appear to predict gingival recession at treatment completion. Periodontal characteristics may play a more important role in recession development, supporting careful periodontal evaluation before and throughout orthodontic care. Full article

The inappropriate utilization of traditional antimicrobials has expedited the development of multidrug-resistant bacterial strains, thereby generating an urgent demand for innovative, safe, and efficacious alternatives. Graphene oxide (GO), characterized by its distinctive physicochemical properties, holds significant potential for a wide range of biomedical applications, such as the prevention of oral diseases, periodontal therapy, control of gastrointestinal infections, wound healing, antibacterial therapy for the respiratory tract, and management of urogenital infections. The antimicrobial mechanisms of GO include physical disruption of microbial membranes, induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and its role as a photosensitizer. Moreover, improving the dispersion, stability, release behavior, and reusability of GO-based composites can markedly enhance their effectiveness. The antimicrobial activity of GO is further modulated by its physicochemical properties, synthesis methods, bacterial characteristics, and environmental conditions, while potential synergistic or antagonistic interactions remain to be elucidated. This review synthesizes recent advancements in GO-based antimicrobial strategies, elucidates key mechanisms and influencing factors, and addresses major challenges and future research directions, with the objective of facilitating the clinical translation of GO as a next-generation antimicrobial material. Full article

Background/Objectives: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which host response and oxidative stress contribute to periodontal tissue destruction. Apelin isoforms may be involved in inflammatory regulation, tissue remodeling, and oxidative balance. This study evaluated changes in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) apelin-13, apelin-36, total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) following non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) in systemically healthy individuals with stage I–II or stage III–IV periodontitis. Methods: A total of 61 systemically healthy individuals with periodontitis were included and divided into two groups: stage I–II periodontitis (n = 31) and stage III–IV periodontitis (n = 30). Clinical periodontal parameters and GCF samples were obtained at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months after NSPT. Apelin-13 and apelin-36 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, while TAS and TOS levels were determined using commercial assay kits. OSI was calculated as the percentage ratio of TOS to TAS. The study was retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06850987). Results: Baseline apelin-13 levels were significantly higher in stage III–IV periodontitis and decreased in both groups after NSPT, whereas apelin-36 increased over time and was higher in stage I–II periodontitis at baseline. Apelin-13 was positively associated with clinical periodontal parameters, while apelin-36 showed negative associations. TAS remained higher in stage I–II periodontitis, whereas OSI was consistently higher in stage III–IV periodontitis. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the combined assessment of GCF apelin isoforms and oxidative stress markers may provide useful biomarker information for distinguishing periodontitis severity and monitoring biochemical responses to NSPT. 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

Periodontal organoid research remains underdeveloped, largely due to the lack of standardized fabrication protocols and multicellular constructs capable of reproducing epithelial–mesenchymal interactions relevant to periodontal biology. In particular, it remains unclear whether different spatial assembly strategies influence construct stability, multicellular organization, or early molecular behavior in periodontal three-dimensional (3D) systems. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and compare two different methods for generating dual-lineage 3D periodontal organoid-like constructs using human periodontal ligament cells (hPDL) and human gingival epithelial cells (hGEP). These strategies were selected to compare two biologically and technically distinct spatial configurations: bilayer assembly to partially mimic epithelial–connective tissue compartmentalization, and surface seeding as a simplified fabrication approach with potential advantages for reproducibility and workflow standardization. Both cell types were cultured in different media conditions (CnT-57, DMEM, and a 1:1 CnT-57/DMEM mixture) to determine compatibility for co-culture applications. Cell viability was assessed on days 1, 3, and 7 using the MTS assay. Constructs were produced in hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels using two strategies: Group 1–sequential photopolymerization of hPDL and hGEP layers to generate a bilayer construct; and Group 2—encapsulation of hPDL followed by direct seeding of hGEP onto the construct surface. Viability within constructs was evaluated on days 3 and 7 using the Live/Dead assay. Morphology was monitored using stereomicroscopy on days 0, 1, 3, and 7. Exploratory RNA sequencing was performed on day 7 to characterize transcriptomic profiles. All tested culture media maintained cellular viabilities above 70%, with no statistically significant differences among conditions (p > 0.05), indicating biocompatibility for both cell types. Group 1 exhibited viabilities of 86.54% ± 8.55% and 90.69% ± 7.88% on days 3 and 7, respectively, while Group 2 showed viabilities of 87.00% ± 9.58% and 88.08% ± 9.12%, with no significant intergroup differences (p > 0.05). Morphological analyses demonstrated preservation of construct integrity and progressive interaction between epithelial and mesenchymal compartments. Exploratory RNA sequencing revealed only subtle transcriptomic differences between assembly strategies. In conclusion, both methodologies successfully generated viable and structurally stable dual-lineage periodontal organoid-like constructs within a hyaluronic acid-based matrix. Comparison of these two assembly strategies demonstrates the feasibility of generating reproducible multicellular periodontal 3D models using distinct spatial configurations, establishing a proof-of-concept platform for future optimization toward periodontal disease modeling, regenerative studies, and advanced biofabrication applications. Full article

Dysbiosis-related oral biofilm diseases, particularly dental caries and periodontal diseases, pose major global health challenges because ecological shifts within oral microbial communities enhance biofilm virulence, resilience, and host inflammatory responses. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid with antimicrobial, antibiofilm, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties, has attracted increasing interest as an investigational, ecology-oriented adjunct for oral health applications. This narrative review evaluates current antibiofilm, antivirulence, and host response evidence for CBD in dysbiosis-related oral biofilm diseases, with emphasis on dental caries and periodontal diseases and selected supportive evidence from other oral biofilm-associated conditions. Current evidence suggests that CBD can inhibit biofilm formation, attenuate cariogenic and fungal virulence traits, modulate periodontal inflammation and immunity, and support tissue-protective responses. However, most evidence remains preclinical and model-dependent, particularly in caries research, and CBD’s hydrophobicity, limited stability, uncertain dose windows, and incomplete microbiome-level evidence remain major barriers to translation. Future studies should clarify CBD’s ecological effects on oral microbial communities, define clinically relevant dosing and exposure timing, and develop oral-retentive delivery systems. Full article

Background: The recent rise in worldwide e-cigarette use has sparked concerns about its effects on oral health, especially regarding the increased risk of periodontal disease. Measuring pro-inflammatory cytokines in crevicular fluid can help detect early subclinical inflammation before symptoms appear. Aim: To quantify the levels of inflammatory biomarkers (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1) in the gingival crevicular fluid of vaping and non-vaping patients. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted with vaper and non-vaper patients. Participants were selected through convenience sampling based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The study collected demographic and clinical data and measured cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1 in crevicular fluid using flow cytometry. Data analysis was conducted in SPSS^®, including descriptive statistics, Shapiro–Wilk normality tests, and correlation analyses (Spearman rank). The Ethics Committee approved the study (Act No. 6-2025). Results: Sixteen vapers and sixteen non-vapers participated, paired by age. Vapers showed higher levels of all markers, especially TNF-α (1451.55 pg/mL, SD = 428.5, p = 0.036) and IL-6 (55.01 pg/mL, SD = 46.48, p = 0.050), compared to non-vapers. No significant differences were found in IL-1β and MCP-1. Conclusions: Vaping is associated with increased pro-inflammatory cytokines, notably TNF-α and IL-6, and clinical signs of periodontal inflammation, specifically a higher plaque index (p = 0.027); bleeding on probing showed only a non-significant upward trend (p = 0.19). These findings suggest vaping may enhance periodontal–inflammatory responses and should be considered in the assessment of periodontitis progression. Full article

Tooth loss and bone resorption of the alveolar cavity caused by dental caries and periodontal disease remain major clinical challenges that compromise oral function. Tissue engineering approaches based on biocompatible scaffolds have emerged as promising strategies for bone regeneration; however, the influence of fabrication methods on scaffold performance remains unclear. This study developed hydroxyapatite/poly (lactic-coglycolic acid)/chitosan scaffolds (HAp/PLGA/CS) using freeze-drying and 3D-printing techniques and evaluated their physicochemical, biological, and biomechanical properties. The morphology, porosity, elemental composition, and mechanical properties of the scaffold were characterized, while the biocompatibility and osteogenic potential were evaluated using human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). Finite element analysis (FEA) using COMSOL Multiphysics^® Version 6.2. was performed to evaluate scaffold behavior under simulated dental implant loading conditions. The 3D-printed scaffolds exhibited significantly higher cell viability than the freeze-dried scaffolds, reaching approximately 85% in the 50% filling group compared with 50% in the freeze-dried group. Microstructural analysis revealed interconnected hierarchical porosity, including macro-, micro-, and submicrometer scale pores. Although the 50% infill scaffold showed the highest cell viability, the 70% infill scaffold demonstrated the most favorable osteogenic profile, with enhanced expression of RUNX2 and OSX. Both types exhibited degradation profiles compatible with early bone regeneration. FEA simulations indicated that further mechanical optimization is required to improve load transfer and reduce deformation at the implant–scaffold interface. Overall, HAp/PLGA/CS scaffolds showed potential as experimental bioactive platforms for bone tissue engineering, with 3D-printed scaffolds providing greater architectural control and favorable early osteogenic responses. However, the translational relevance of these findings remains preliminary and requires validation through long-term degradation studies, in vivo bone regeneration and osseointegration models, cyclic mechanical testing, and implant fixation experiments. Full article

Background: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by a dysbiotic oral microbiome that leads to progressive periodontal tissue destruction. Current treatment primarily relies on scaling and root planing (SRP); however, this approach does not always completely eliminate pathogenic microorganisms or adequately modulate the host inflammatory response. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) generates reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) with potential antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and immunomodulatory properties, making it a promising adjunctive therapeutic modality for the management of periodontitis. Literature Search Strategy: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase to identify relevant studies published between January 2000 and June 2025. The search included in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies evaluating the antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and regenerative effects of CAP in periodontitis and related periodontal models. Reference lists of relevant articles were also manually screened to identify additional eligible studies. Objectives: This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects of CAP on periodontitis and to evaluate its potential as an adjunctive treatment modality. Furthermore, the review examines the regenerative potential and underlying mechanisms of CAP, while also addressing its clinical safety and biocompatibility. Key Findings: Preclinical evidence indicates that CAP reduces bacterial viability, disrupts biofilm architecture, and modulates host immune responses through RONS-mediated signaling pathways. In animal models of periodontitis, CAP has been shown to enhance markers of periodontal tissue repair, reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, increase LC3-associated phagocytosis in macrophages, and accelerate wound healing. Clinical studies evaluating CAP as an adjunct to SRP have reported improvements in clinical attachment level (CAL) and reductions in the recolonization of periodontal pathogens. Nevertheless, substantial heterogeneity in CAP treatment parameters and a lack of long-term safety and efficacy data limit direct comparisons across studies and highlight the need for further well-designed clinical investigations. Conclusions: CAP appears to be a potentially useful adjunct to SRP in the management of periodontitis. Current preclinical evidence demonstrates significant antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and regenerative effects; however, clinical evidence remains limited. Further high-quality clinical trials are required to validate these findings, establish standardized treatment protocols, optimize therapeutic parameters, and facilitate the development of regulatory frameworks for clinical implementation. Full article

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of systemic lutein (LT) supplementation on the progression of experimental periodontitis (EP) and its impact on mechanical periodontal therapy (SRP) in rats. Methods: A total of 120 male Wistar rats were used, and EP was induced by placing a ligature around the left mandibular first molar. The animals were allocated into four groups: NT (no treatment)/VEH (vehicle), NT/LT, SRP/VEH and SRP/LT. Supplementation was administered daily by oral gavage (0.7 mL/kg of vehicle or 250 mg/kg of LT). Animals were euthanized at 7, 15 and 30 days, and the hemimandibles were collected for histomorphometric analysis of the percentage of bone in the furcation region (PBF), histopathological assessment and immunohistochemical detection of inflammatory mediators (tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1β and interleukin-10) and bone markers (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase and osteocalcin). Results: Systemic LT supplementation, particularly when associated with scaling and root planning (SRP/LT), reduced the intensity and extent of the inflammatory infiltrate, partially decreased immunolabelling for IL-1β and TNF-α, and promoted greater organization of the connective tissue. Higher PBF values and fewer TRAP-positive cells were observed in LT-treated groups. Conclusions: Systemic LT supplementation reduced inflammation and alveolar bone resorption and enhanced the effects of mechanical periodontal therapy. Full article