Search Results (36)

This in vitro study aims to investigate the fracture properties of 3D-printed resin provisional material designed with different connector dimensions for two-unit fixed dental prostheses (FDPs). The master model was digitally designed following Shillingburg’s all-ceramic restoration tooth preparation guidelines and milled from aluminum. Four two-unit FDPs with different connector dimensions were designed: 2 × 3 mm, 3 × 3 mm, 3 × 4 mm, and 4 × 4 mm (width × length) (Groups A, B, C, and D, respectively; n = 10 for each group). These specimens were printed using 3D-printed resin material (Detax FREEPRINT^® temp). Forty specimens were subjected to a three-point test using a universal testing machine until fracture. The failure mode was examined under a stereomicroscope. The Kruskal–Wallis test at α = 0.05 revealed non-significant differences in fracture resistance load but significantly different elastic modulus, yield strength, and compressive strength (p = 0.061, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively) among the different groups. The 2 × 3 mm connectors had higher means of modulus, yield strength, and compressive strength compared to the other groups. The study found that the maximum load causing fractures in 3D-printed provisional material connectors was consistent, regardless of connector cross-section variations. The 2 × 3 mm group performed best, while the 4 × 4 mm group performed worst. Full article

Objective: A peri-implant gap or a “jumping gap” between an implant surface and the buccal bone can often complicate the successful integration of dental implants, impairing osseointegration and long-term implant stability. Although various techniques and materials are available for managing this gap, there is no consensus on the most effective approach. The current literature lacks standardized, evidence-based guidelines for selecting the optimal technique or material for managing peri-implant gaps, especially following immediate implant placement. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy of various techniques and materials to manage the peri-implant gap to improve the implant stability, bone preservation, and esthetic outcomes using the PROSPERO registration number CRD42024508852. Methods: A comprehensive search of the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases was conducted, and various studies were selected, including 11 randomized clinical trials that investigated different grafting materials and techniques for managing the gap between the implant and the buccal plate. The selected studies were assessed for the risk of bias, and the data were extracted based on primary outcomes such as implant stability, bone density, and esthetic parameters. Results: The findings indicate that xenografts and alloplastic grafts were superior in preserving bone volume compared to platelet-rich fibrin. Techniques like the socket shield and immediate provisional prothesis methods showed promise in maintaining soft tissue and bone integrity. However, heterogeneity across the studies limits definitive conclusions. Conclusions: Further high-quality research is needed to establish standardized guidelines for peri-implant gap management. The selection of techniques and materials should be tailored to individual patient needs. Full article

Three-dimensional (3D) printing represents a pivotal technological advancement in dental prosthetics, fundamentally transforming the fabrication of provisional crowns and bridges through innovative vat photopolymerization methodologies, specifically stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP). This comprehensive scholarly review critically examines the technological landscape of 3D-printed resin-based dental provisional crowns and bridges, systematically analyzing their material performance, clinical applications, and prospective developmental trajectories. Empirical investigations demonstrate that these advanced restorations exhibit remarkable mechanical characteristics, including flexural strength ranging from 60 to 90 MPa and fracture resistance of 1000–1200 N, consistently matching or surpassing traditional manufacturing techniques. The digital workflow introduces substantial procedural innovations, dramatically reducing fabrication time while simultaneously achieving superior marginal adaptation and internal architectural precision. Despite these significant technological advancements, critical challenges persist, encompassing material durability limitations, interlayer bonding strength inconsistencies, and the current paucity of longitudinal clinical evidence. Contemporary research initiatives are strategically focused on optimizing resin formulations through strategic filler incorporation, enhancing post-processing protocols, and addressing fundamental limitations in color stability and water sorption characteristics. Ultimately, this scholarly review aims to provide comprehensive insights that will inform evidence-based clinical practices and delineate future research trajectories in the dynamically evolving domain of digital dentistry, with the paramount objective of advancing patient outcomes through technological innovation and precision-driven methodological approaches. Full article

Background and Objectives: The use of stereolithographic (SLA) 3D printing technology in dentistry has expanded, particularly for the fabrication of provisional dental restorations. Understanding the mechanical properties and quality of SLA 3D-printed materials is essential to ensure clinical success and patient safety. This systematic review aims to critically evaluate and summarize the available evidence on the mechanical properties and quality of SLA 3D-printed materials. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science up to October 2024. Studies comparing the mechanical properties of SLA 3D-printed provisional restoration materials with those of milled, conventional, or other additive manufacturing methods were included. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Data on flexural strength, hardness, fracture resistance, surface roughness, marginal adaptation, accuracy, cement film thickness, shear bond strength, and biofilm formation were extracted and analyzed. Results: The findings from the included studies indicate that SLA 3D-printed materials exhibit varied mechanical properties. Some studies reported that SLA 3D-printed resins had significantly lower flexural strength and hardness compared to milled PMMA and bis-acrylic resins. Other studies found that SLA 3D-printed resins showed clinically acceptable marginal adaptation, surface roughness, and fracture strength comparable to those fabricated by subtractive manufacturing and conventional methods. In terms of accuracy, build orientation influenced the dimensional accuracy of SLA-printed restorations. Studies assessing cement film thickness found that SLA-printed provisional restorations had higher cement film thickness compared to other materials. Regarding repairability and fatigue resistance, limitations were observed in some SLA resins. Conclusions: The mechanical properties and quality of SLA 3D-printed materials for provisional dental restorations vary among studies. While SLA technology holds promise for efficient fabrication of provisional restorations, inconsistencies in material properties suggest a need for further research to optimize materials and printing parameters. Standardization of protocols is necessary to ensure reliable clinical performance of SLA 3D-printed provisional restorations. Full article

At present, provisional restorative materials are widely used for both short- and long-term treatment purposes. In esthetic dentistry, for the simulation of natural teeth, fluorescence plays a crucial role in enhancing the elegant, vibrant, and life-like appearance of restorative teeth, making them more closely resemble natural teeth. To achieve ideal esthetic outcomes, restorative materials must replicate the characteristics of natural teeth to provide the most realistic appearance possible. Thus, this study aims to compare the color difference in fluorescence (∆E₀₀) between a normal bovine tooth and eight provisional restorative materials under ultraviolet radiation. Eight provisional restorative materials were fabricated, for a total of 80 specimens (size 13.0 mm × 8.0 mm × 1.0 mm). A sound bovine tooth incisor was collected and used as a control for both enamel and dentine conditions. The color difference in fluorescence (∆E₀₀) was assessed using a spectrophotometer. A one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test (p < 0.05) were used to analyze the resulting data. The results revealed that the color difference in fluorescence (∆E₀₀) between the normal bovine tooth and eight provisional restorative materials used in this study was higher than the 50% acceptability threshold, indicating a clear mismatch between the fluorescence of the materials and that of the normal bovine tooth. Unifast Trad had the lowest ∆E₀₀ among the provisional restorative materials, while Luxatemp Fluorescence had the highest color difference in fluorescence (∆E₀₀). The color difference in fluorescence (∆E₀₀) between Unifast Trad and Luxatemp Fluorescence is statistically significant. However, no significant difference was observed between Temporary CB, Vipi Block Trilux, and Protemp 4, or between Luxatemp Star and Luxatemp Fluorescence. It can thus be concluded that the ∆E₀₀ mostly differs among the different materials. Luxatemp Star and Luxatemp Fluorescence exhibited the highest ∆E₀₀ by a significant margin compared to the other groups. Full article

Background: Mini dental implants (MDIs) are alternatives to support an overdenture when a standard diameter implant cannot be placed due to lack of bone volume. They reduce the need for invasive bone grafting and lower the barrier for treatment. Aim: This prospective study reports on implant and patient-centered outcomes of flaplessly placed, early loaded MDIs supporting horseshoe-shaped maxillary overdentures after 7 years of function. Materials and Methods: Patients with a CBCT-confirmed thin alveolar crest received 5–6 one-piece MDIs using mentally guided flapless surgery. The conventional denture was relined and MDIs were provisionally loaded within one week. After 6 months the non-splinted MDIs were actively loaded with a horseshoe overdenture. Implant and prosthetic survival, peri-implant health (PPD and BoP) and patient-related outcomes using OHIP-14 and Subjective Masticatory Evaluation were assessed after 7 years. Results: 185 MDIs were placed in 14 females and 17 males. During provisional loading, 32 MDIs were lost, and 17 replacements were required in 16 patients. In total, 170 out of 202 totally placed MDIs were supporting 29 overdentures after 6 months. Cumulative implant failure increased from 15.8% at the moment of active loading to 34.7% at 7 years. After 7 years, 76% of the initially placed overdentures remained functional, mean PPD was 3.48 (SD 0.86), BoP was 0.20 (SD 0.40) and peri-implantitis incidence was 0.9%. The total OHIP-14 was reduced from 21.3/56 (SD: 13.1) preoperatively to 15.6/56 (SD 12.8) at provisional loading (p > 0.1) and 7.3/56 (SD 6.7) at final loading (p = 0.006), and it remained unchanged up to 7 years at 6.57/56 (SD: 8.92) (p > 0.5). Conclusions: Maxillary MDIs provide an acceptable treatment option in patients with deficient bone volume that cannot or refuse to be treated with bone grafting. Despite one third of the MDIs being lost, remaining MDIs had good peri-implant health, prosthetic success was 71% and Oral Health Related Quality of Life was beyond expectations. Full article

Provisional crowns are often used in dentistry for prolonged periods, but bacterial attachment and dental plaque often lead to gingival inflammation and secondary caries. The aims of this research were to develop a novel resin-based antibacterial provisional crown coating to prevent secondary caries and investigate the physical properties and antibacterial efficacy. The resin-based coating was prepared by addition of triethylene glycoldivinylbenzyl ether and urethane dimethacrylate, with the antibacterial monomer dimethylaminododecyl methacrylate (DMADDM) incorporated at different mass fractions. Surface characteristics including surface roughness and contact angle were assessed. The antibacterial effects were evaluated by 48 h biofilms of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) on provisional crowns coated with the resin-based coating. No statistically significant difference was observed in surface roughness across all groups (p > 0.05), showing that adding DMADDM did not have a negative impact on surface roughness. The contact angle results revealed a significant difference in hydrophilicity between different concentrations of DMADDM (p < 0.01), but overall hydrophilicity did not negatively affect the performance of the coating. The incorporation of 5% DMADDM demonstrated a significant antibiofilm effect on S. mutans biofilm CFU with a 4-log reduction compared to controls (p < 0.01). Significant reductions of 4–5 folds were observed in biofilm metabolic activity and lactic acid production (p < 0.01). The findings suggest that the novel coating material could enhance the long-term performance and clinical outcomes of provisional crowns, contributing to better patient oral health. Full article

Achieving color match between natural teeth and restorative materials is crucial in dentistry. Factors such as the light source, brightness, and opacity influence tooth color, determined by light absorption and scattering within the material. Advances in CAD/CAM systems have enhanced prosthodontic treatments, particularly with new temporary materials, but data on their color stability and masking ability remains limited. However, data on the color stability and masking ability of these CAD/CAM materials is limited. Telio^® CAD-Temp and VITA CAD-Temp^® blocks were cut into slices and polished. Composite resin specimens were prepared using a custom-designed metal resin former and light-cured. Samples were paired randomly and assigned to experimental groups based on base type and thickness (n = 30). Samples were stored in a controlled environment for 24 h before color evaluation using an EasyShade^® V spectrophotometer. Color difference (ΔE) was calculated using L*, a*, and b* values. Statistical analyses included the Shapiro–Wilk test, Levene’s test, and three-way ANOVA, with post-hoc comparisons using the Bonferroni method (α = 0.05). ΔE was classified according to perceptibility (PT = 1.2) and acceptability (AT = 2.7) values. Full article

Background: Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are considered a primary alternative treatment for adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who are unable to tolerate or do not respond to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, supported by substantial scientific evidence. While a range of designs and materials for MADs are commercially available, there is a lack of clear diagnostic guidelines to assist clinicians in selecting the most appropriate device based on a multidisciplinary evaluation of OSA patients. This narrative review seeks to outline the key characteristics of MADs that clinicians should evaluate during both the diagnostic and treatment phases for patients with OSA. Methods: An extensive search of academic databases was conducted to gather relevant studies that address therapeutic and diagnostic recommendations for the design and titration of MADs. The search was carried out across EMBASE, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science up to May 2024. From a total of 1445 identified citations, 1103 remained after duplicate removal. Based on the inclusion criteria, the full text of 202 articles was retrieved, and 70 studies were ultimately included in this review. The extracted data were organized to generate clinical insights, aimed at guiding orthodontists in optimizing diagnostic and decision-making processes for treating OSA patients with MADs. Results: The analysis led to the identification of key clinical questions that can assist orthodontists in enhancing their approach and choosing the appropriate appliance basing on the diagnosis and clinical dento-orofacial characteristics. Conclusions: Bibloc appliances could be preferred over mono-bloc devices due to the possibility of arranging the mandibular advancement according to the patient’s clinical condition and orofacial symptoms. Provisional devices could be used as screening tools to verify the patient’s adherence to the therapy. Regardless of the MAD design, type and programmed advancement, it must be under-lined that the rule of the orthodontist/dental specialist is secondary to the other sleep-medicine specialists (ORL, pulmonologist) and must be related to (1) a preliminary assessment of MAD usage (dental anatomical conditions), (2) testing a diagnostic MAD usable during a sleep examination (PSG or DISE), (3) final treatment with a definitive MAD. Full article

In addition to zinc oxide-based cements, resin-based materials are also available for temporary cementation. The aim of this in vitro study was to determine the influence of the different material compositions on temporary bonds. In nine test series (n = 30), temporary bis-acrylate single-tooth crowns were bonded onto prefabricated titanium abutments with nine different temporary luting materials. After simulating an initial (24 h, distilled water, 37 °C), a short-term (7 days, distilled water, 37 °C) and a long-term provisional restoration period (12h, distilled water, 37 °C; thermocycling: 5000 cycles) in subgroups (n = 10), the bond strength was examined using a combined tensile–shear test. Statistical analysis was performed by univariate analysis of variance or a non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis test, followed by post hoc tests. Of the three resin-based materials, two showed significantly higher bond strength values compared to all other materials (p < 0.001), regardless of the storage procedure. The resin-based materials were followed by eugenol-free and eugenol-containing zinc oxide materials. Significant intragroup differences were observed between the composite-based materials after all storage periods. This was only observed for some of the zinc oxide-based materials. The results show that under in vitro conditions, not only the composition of the temporary luting materials but also the different storage conditions have a significant influence on temporary bonds. Full article

Resin composites have become the preferred choice for chairside provisional dental restorations. However, these materials may undergo discoloration, changes in surface roughness, and mechanical properties with aging in the oral cavity, compromising the aesthetics, functionality, and success of dental restorations. To investigate the color and mechanical stability of chairside provisional composite resins, this study evaluated the optical, surface, and mechanical properties of four temporary restoration resin materials before and after aging, stimulated by thermal cycling in double-distilled water. Measurements, including CIE LAB color analysis, three-point bending test, nanoindentation, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM), were conducted (n = 15). Results showed significant differences among the materials in terms of optical, surface, and mechanical properties. Revotek LC (urethane dimethacrylate) demonstrated excellent color stability (ΔE₀₀ = 0.53-Black/0.32-White), while Artificial Teeth Resin (polymethyl methacrylate) exhibited increased mechanical strength with aging (p < 0.05, FS = 68.40 MPa-non aging/87.21 MPa-aging). Structur 2 SC (Bis-acrylic) and Luxatemp automix plus (methyl methacrylate bis-acrylate) demonstrated moderate stability in optical and mechanical properties (Structur 2 SC: ΔE₀₀ = 1.97-Black/1.38-White FS = 63.20 MPa-non aging/50.07 MPa-aging) (Luxatemp automix plus: ΔE₀₀ = 2.49-Black/1.77-White FS = 87.72 MPa-non aging/83.93 MPa-aging). These results provide important practical guidance for clinical practitioners, as well as significant theoretical and experimental bases for the selection of restorative composite resins. Full article

Provisional fixed partial dentures represent a critical phase in dental treatment, necessitating heightened mechanical durability, particularly in comprehensive and extended treatment plans. Strengthening these structures with various reinforcing materials offers a method to enhance their resilience. Utilizing a three-point testing methodology on standardized trial specimens allows for a comparative assessment of various materials and reinforcement techniques for pre-prosthetic applications. This study aims to validate and assess the significance of integrating different reinforcing materials into standardized test bodies. The study focuses on test specimens comprising three types of unreinforced laboratory and clinical polymers for provisional constructions (n = 6)—heat-cured PMMA (Superpont C+B, Spofa Dental, Czech Republic), CAD-CAM prefabricated PMMA (DD temp MED, Dental Direkt, Germany), CAD-CAM printing resin (Temporary CB Resin, FormLabs, USA), self-polymerizing PEMA (DENTALON plus, Kulzer, Germany), light-polymerizing composite (Revotek LC, GC, Japan), and dual-polymerizing composite (TempSpan, Pentron, USA). Additionally, laboratory polymers are evaluated in groups with five types of reinforcing filaments (n = 15)—Glass Fiber (Fiber Splint One-Layer, Polydentia, Switzerland), Polyethylene thread (Ribbond Regular 4.0 mm, Ribbond Inc., USA), triple-stranded chrome-cobalt wire for splinting 015″ (Leone S.p.a., Italy), Aesthetic ligature wire 012″ (Leone S.p.a., Italy), and Glass Fiber coated with light-cured composite 8.5 × 0.2 mm (Interlig, Angelus, Brazil). Analysis of the data using Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) reveals that the experimental bodies, produced via the subtractive digital method using PMMA (DD temp MED, Dental Direkt GmbH, Germany) as the polymer and glass filaments as the reinforcement, exhibit superior mechanical properties, particularly when pre-wetted with Interlig liquid composite (Angelus, Brazil). Full article

Introduction: Teledentistry is an emerging tool to exchange medical information and clinical images to facilitate the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral diseases and patient assurance and education. Considering the shortage of oral medicine specialists in Saudi Arabia, this study aims to assess the experiences of dental specialists with tele-oral medicine and its potential applicability in addressing this shortage. Materials and methods: This was a pilot, cross-sectional study conducted among specialists in the field of oral medicine from January 2020 to March 2020. A total of 16 preselected cases with oral lesions, including clinical history and images, were developed, validated, and shared via email with study participants. Each case included questions on differential diagnosis, provisional diagnosis, and management. The responses were recorded, analyzed, and presented as means and percentages. Results: A total of 49 subjects participated in this study and more than half were under 40 years of age and two-thirds were women. A total of 23 participants had prior experience with tele-oral medicine, mainly via WhatsApp (95.7%), and these cases were received from patients, their families, friends, or other dentists. For all study cases, the correct diagnosis score ranged between 73.50 and 100%, and correct management ranged between 51 and 98%. Conclusions: Tele-oral medicine is an effective tool that may play an important role in patient management in rural regions with a shortage of oral medicine services. Further studies with larger sample sizes and in collaboration with international centers are warranted to confirm these findings. Full article

This case report focuses on applying a protocol for dental implant restoration in aesthetic zones, specifically the anterior sectors. The protocol aims to achieve optimal results with minimal complexity, reducing the number of sessions and impressions required for transferring clinical information to the laboratory. The historical development of dental implantology and the evolution of dental implant restoration workflows are discussed, highlighting the significance of osseointegration and advancements in materials, surgical techniques, and prosthetic components. The case report describes rehabilitating congenitally missing lateral incisors using fibre-reinforced composite Maryland bridges for provisional restoration and Osstem TSIII (Osstem^®, Seoul, South Korea) implants, zirconia abutments, and disilicate lithium crowns for definitive repair. The discussion covers essential aspects of aesthetic dental implant restoration, including materials, types of dental implants, surgical techniques for soft tissue enhancement, and prosthetic and impression techniques. The study emphasises the importance of selecting appropriate materials, employing advanced surgical procedures, and utilising accurate prosthetic and impression techniques to enhance the aesthetic outcomes of dental implant restorations. A multidisciplinary approach and patient-centred care are essential for successful aesthetic dental implant restorations. The methodology presented in this manuscript demonstrates its effectiveness in achieving optimal outcomes while minimising stress on soft tissues and improving patient comfort and satisfaction. This case report contributes to dental implant restoration, providing evidence-based techniques for achieving aesthetic and functional success. Full article

(1) Purpose: The aim of the present study was to compare the bond strength between two 3D-printed resins designed for long-term provisional crowns and three different reline materials. (2) Materials and Methods: Rectangular specimens were prepared from two 3D-printed resins (Envision Tech and NextDent C&B) and a conventional self-cure PMMA. Transparent tubes filled with three different reline materials including composite resin, Bis-acryl, and PMMA were bonded to the 3D-printed specimens (n = 11 per group, total of 6 study groups). Tubes filled with PMMA were bonded to the prepared PMMA specimens which served as the control group (n = 11, control group). The specimens were subjected to a shear bond strength (SBS) test, and mode of failure was recorded using light microscopy. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey’s tests (alpha = 0.05). (3) Results: The highest SBS value was achieved to both 3D-printed materials with the PMMA reline material. The bond to both 3D-printed materials was lower with Bis-acrylic or composite resin relines in comparison to that with PMMA (p-value < 0.05). No significant difference was found between the control PMMA group and either 3D-printed material when relined with PMMA (p-value > 0.05). (4) Conclusion: The tested 3D-printed resins achieved a clinically acceptable bond strength when relined with PMMA. Full article