Dental caries in South African white children aged 1–5 years

The dentitions of 499 white preschoolchildren aged 1-5 years from a low fluoride area were examined with mirror and probe. The dmft values ranged from 1.0 +/- 2.0 at 1 year of age to 5.1 +/- 4.5 at 5 years of age while the overall mean for the group was 3.7 +/- 4.1. "Rampant" caries prevalence varied according to the definition used. It is suggested that for epidemiologic studies rampant caries should be defined as a dmft value of 5 or more and that labial caries should be regarded as a specific entity.     

Myofibroblastoma of the mandible in a 3-year-old child

Myofibroblastoma is a rare benign tumor of the head and neck region, which is characterized by a large, rapidly growing, and destructive mass. A 3-year-old boy presented with an 8-week history of a rapidly growing swelling of the right mandible. Examination revealed a firm 13-cm mass occupying the entire right body and ramus of the mandible. The clinical and radiological features were suggestive of a sarcoma. An initial biopsy taken in the referring hospital was inconclusive, and the second biopsy showed a myofibroblastic neoplasm consistent with a desmoplastic fibroma. Progressive tumor growth necessitated a tracheostomy. Right hemimandibulectomy was performed, and the defect was reconstructed with free microvascular fibula flap. Histopathology and immunocytochemistry revealed a myofibroblastoma. This entity differs from other myofibroblasts and fibroblast tumors such as inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT), myofibroma, and desmoplastic fibroma. The child has been followed up for 2 years. Conclusion: Differentiation between myofibroblasts and fibroblastic tumors as well as some malignancies can be challenging. Myofibroblastoma can behave as a malignant neoplasm, and the clinical distinction of this entity lies primarily in its recognition as a benign neoplasm.     

Periodontal manifestations of adult onset of histiocytosis X

Histiocytosis X, a reticuloendothelial disorder, includes the three clinical syndromes: Letterer-Siwe and Hand-Schuller-Christian diseases and eosinophilic granuloma of the bone. Twenty-eight cases of adult onset of histiocytosis X involving the head and neck region were found in the literature during the past 20 years; 15 cases were confined to this area, out of which 13 involved jaw bones. Characteristic signs and symptoms of periodontal disease were observed in 22 out of 28 cases (79%) with the lower molar area as a predominant site. A case report of a non-osseous chronic disseminated histiocytosis X with periodontal involvement is presented. The importance of histiocytosis X, as an entity that should be kept in mind as a differential diagnosis of a process where destructive periodontitis is involved, is discussed.     

Cervico-facial necrotizing fasciitis

Necrotizing fasciitis of the cervical facial region is a rare entity that has seen an increasing prevalence in the last 20 years. It is most common in patients with an underlying systemic disease leading to immunosuppression, but can be seen in healthy adults and children. It is characterized by soft tissue destruction which is disproportionate to its clinical symptoms and signs, with rapid progression and fatal outcome, if not treated rapidly and radically. We present a review of the etio-pathogenesis and management of this challenging disease.     

Intraoral sublabial approach for anterior skull base juvenile ossifying fibroma

Juvenile ossifying fibroma is a rare fibro-osseous neoplasm seen in the pediatric age group of 5 to 15 years. It has been recognized as a separate histopathologic entity among the fibro-osseous group of lesions. Occasionally, it may grow aggressively and extend to involve the orbits and skull base, resulting in serious cosmetic and functional problems. We present a case of a juvenile ossifying fibroma arising below the skull base of a 9-year-old boy. This case demonstrates that cemento-ossifying fibroma in case of maxilla grow to considerable size before causing symptoms because of the remodeling of the surrounding bony compartment and intraoral sublabial approach can be used to excise lesion completely even at the skull base.     

Eosinophilic granuloma

Eosinophilic granuloma is said to be the most benign disorder of the triad commonly known as histiocytosis X. There has been, and still is, confusion about the terminology describing this entity. This article reviews the literature on histiocytosis X, with particular emphasis on eosinophilic granuloma and its oral manifestations. The case of a 22-month-old male child with an eosinophilic granuloma of the right mandible is presented. The diagnostic and treatment methods are reviewed and discussed. During the 4 years that the case has been followed there has been progressive healing of the lesion, but other manifestations of the disease process and of the surgical treatment have become evident. The need for close dental as well as medical follow-up in cases involving the dental structures is stressed.     

Squamous odontogenic tumor (SOT): a benign neoplasm of the periodontium

Abstract True neoplasms are rarely localised to the periodontium. However, early recognition and diagnosis of neoplastic lesions resides within the realm of responsibility of the dentist. In recent years, a number of odontogenic tumors has been described characterized by an occurrence on the gingiva or in the intrabony part of the periodontium. One such neoplasm, the squamous odontogenic tumor (SOT) originally described 20 years ago is now a well-recognized entity localized to the periodontium, be it in the periodontal ligament or in the gingivae. A review of 36 acceptable cases of this tumor published sofar, forms the basis of the present paper.     

Urban legend series: mucous membrane pemphigoid

Mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) is a heterogeneous group of autoimmune subepithelial blistering diseases affecting primarily mucous membranes showing marked degree of clinical and immunological variability. We investigated four controversial topics: (i) Does oral pemphigoid (OP) really exist as a separate entity? (ii) Is mucous membrane pemphigoid curable? (iii) What is the best therapeutic option for MMP? (iv) Does exclusive oral IgA dermatitis exist as a distinct entity from MMP? Results from extensive literature searches suggested that (i) it is still unclear whether patients with OP could be considered as a distinct subset of MMP with specific clinical and immunological features; (ii) it is uncertain whether treatment regimens that get MMP under control can be eliminated to allow patients to be in drug‐free remission or they should be continuously administered in some capacities; (iii) there is a concerning paucity of good‐quality trials on MMP and available recommendations are solely based on generally small patients' cohorts or case series. Some of the 2002 consensus experts' opinions should be possibly updated, particularly regarding the safety of sulfa drugs; (iv) we did not find any strong evidence to support an exclusive oral (and perhaps also mucosal) form of LAD as a separate entity.     

Effective treatment of the postoperative maxillary cyst by marsupialization

The postoperative maxillary cyst occurs as a delayed complication after radical surgical intervention in the maxillary sinus. The recommended procedures for treating this entity have been enucleation followed by formation of an antronasal window, primary closure, or open packing. To prevent recurrence and unnecessary tissue destruction from surgery, marsupialization was performed in eight unilocular postoperative maxillary cysts. With the exception of a case in which the long-term results could not be obtained, the cysts disappeared in four months to two and a half years. Possible indications for marsupialization of the postoperative maxillary cyst are discussed.     

Giant facial lymphangioma

Lymphatic malformation (LM) is a benign cystic entity resulting from aberrant lymphatic drainage. Often evident at birth, most LMs have declared themselves by 2 years of age. They can be concerning when they occur near vital structures such as the airway or orbit. The natural history varies considerable from spontaneous gradual regression to long-term growth and debilitation. Depending on the location, structures involved, and clinical course of the LM, therapeutic options include observation, intralesional sclerosis, laser therapy, and surgical excision. The literature provides guidelines for treatment options that must be carefully applied to the facial region. We present a newborn infant who presented to our institution with giant facial lymphangioma who underwent a combination of sclerosis, laser ablation, and surgery with reconstruction.     

Spontaneous oral ulceration with bone sequestration: its relevance in current clinical practice

Oral ulceration associated with bony exposure and sequestration is uncommon and often related to well-recognised conditions. In a small group of patients no obvious aetiological factors can be elucidated, and various terminologies have been utilised to describe these lesions. We report six cases of spontaneous oral ulceration with bone sequestration as a specific entity and review the pertinent literature. We retrospectively reviewed patients presenting in the period 2013-2018. Data collected included demographic details, relevant medical, drug, and radiotherapy history; presentation, investigations, management, and outcome. Six patients with an age range of 49-65 years were identified with spontaneous oral ulceration with bone sequestration in the study period. All were males, and none had any relevant history. Five lesions occurred over the mylohyoid ridge and one was related to a lingual mandibular torus. The most common presentation was a painful ulcer with exposed bone, which had been present for 6 - 12 weeks. Occlusal radiographs demonstrated focal rarefaction in two patients. All were managed conservatively and by removal of the loose sequestrum. Healing occurred successfully in all cases, and this was earlier when the loose sequestrum was removed. Spontaneous oral ulceration with bone sequestration is a distinct lesion that most often presents over the prominence of the mylohyoid ridge. It is currently an uncommon entity (0.02%), but this could well be due to a lack of recognition and under-reporting. It should be considered as a diagnosis only when other causes have been excluded. Lesions heal successfully with conservative management and surgical intervention, and this occurs earlier following removal of the loose sequestrum.     

Microbial shifts after subgingival debridement and formation of bacterial resistance when combined with local or systemic antimicrobials

Antibiotics have played a major role in the improvement of life expectancy in the last 50 years and have led many to believe that bacterial infections were about to vanish as a disease entity of any importance. Emerging problems resulting from a widespread use of antibiotics have modified the general perception of the capabilities of antimicrobial agents. Over the years, bacteria have become increasingly resistant to formerly potent antimicrobial agents, including some antiseptics. The use of antimicrobials may also disturb the delicate ecological equilibrium of the body, allowing the proliferation of resistant bacteria or non-bacterial micro-organisms. This shift may initiate new infections that are worse than the ones originally treated. No antimicrobial drug is absolutely non-toxic and the use of an agent carries accompanying risks. This paper discusses the development and occurrence of antimicrobial resistance in the subgingival flora towards antiseptics and local or systemic antibiotics and is focussed on the question: how can the outcome of periodontal therapy with/without antimicrobials be improved?     

Odontogenic calcificant cystic tumor: a report of two clinical cases

Odontogenic Calcificant Cystic Tumor (OCCT) is an infrequent injury. It arises from odontogenic epithelial rests present in the maxilla, jaw or gum. Gorlin and col. described the OCCT for first time as an own pathological entity in 1962. Clinically, the OCCT represents 1% of the odontogenic injuries. It is possible to be found from the first decade to the eighth decade. It affects in same proportion the maxilla and the jaw, being the most common in the dented zones, with greater incidence in the first molar area. Two case reports of OCCT in two different ages, both in female individuals, one at 5 years old and the other at 35 years old are presented. Enucleation of the tumor was the treatment chosen. The purpose of this article is to present a review of the literature related to these two cases of OCCT and its treatment, putting an emphasis on its aetiology, biological behaviour and treatment.     

A Familial Pattern of Multiple Idiopathic Cervical Root Resorption With a 30‐Year Follow‐Up

Background: Multiple idiopathic cervical root resorption (MICRR) is a rare entity distinct from pathologic root resorption that occurs as a result of several local and systemic factors. Methods: This report describes a familial pattern of MICRR, including a recently identified case and a 30‐year follow‐up on previously described cases. Results: The previously reported father (aged 95 years) and son (aged 64 years), and the recently affected daughter (aged 61 years) recounted non‐contributory medical history. The resorptive lesions were asymptomatic, unassociated with any predisposing factors, and first identified during the fourth to sixth decades of life. All tooth types were affected, with posterior teeth being affected earlier and with greater frequency; however, distal root surfaces were never affected. The resorptive lesions were progressive in nature, with additional teeth becoming involved as the condition was followed over time. In many instances, surrounding alveolar bone extended into the existing resorptive defects, but without clinical evidence of ankylosis. Gingival tissues, periodontal probing, and tooth mobility were within normal limits. Microcomputed tomography of extracted teeth demonstrated that the lesions were more extensive than clinically evident and rarely invaded the pulp chamber. Histologically, many resorptive lesions were noted along the cementum surface, with evidence of isolated cemental repair. Management of MICRR focused on restoring damaged root surfaces and extracting teeth with extensive root resorption. Conclusions: MICRR is a challenging entity with unknown etiology and a lack of well‐established preventive and management strategies. The familial pattern noted in this report necessitates future studies to investigate the role of genetic components in MICRR development.     

Long time follow up of implant therapy and treatment of peri-implantitis

Dental implants have become an often used alternative to replace missing teeth, resulting in an increasing percentage of the adult population with implant supported prosthesis. Although favourable long-term results of implant therapy have been reported, infections occur. Until recently few reports included data on peri-implant infections, possibly underestimating this complication of implant treatment. It is possible that some infections around implants develop slowly and that with time peri-implantitis will be a common complication to implant therapy as an increasing number of patients have had their implants for a long time (>10 years). Data on treatment of peri-implant lesions are scarce leaving the clinician with limited guidance regarding choice of treatment. The aim of this thesis was to study the frequency of implant loss and presence of peri-implant lesions in a group of patients supplied with Br?nemark implants 9-14 years ago, and to relate these events to patient and site specific characteristics. Moreover three surgical treatment modalities for peri-implantitis were evaluated. The thesis is based on six studies; Studies I-III included 218 patients and 1057 implants followed for 9-14 years evaluating prevalence of, and factors related to implant loss (Paper I) and prevalence of peri-implant infections and related factors (Paper I-III). Study IV is a review describing different treatment modalities of peri-implant infections. Study V is a prospective cohort study involving 36 patients and 65 implants, evaluating the use of a bone substitute with or without the use of a resorbable membrane. Study VI is a case series with 12 patients and 16 implants, evaluating a bone substitute in combination with a resorbable membrane and submerged healing. This thesis demonstrated that: After 9-14 years the survival rates of dental implants are high (95.7%). Implant loss seems to cluster within patients and are related to periodontitis evidenced as bone loss on radiographs at remaining teeth before implant placement. (Paper I) Peri-implantitis is a common clinical entity after 9-14 years. (Paper II) Using the implant as the statistical unit the level of keratinized mucosa and pus were explanatory for a bone level at > or =3 threads (1.8 mm). When the patient was used as a statistical unit a history of periodontitis and smoking were explanatory for peri-implantitis. (Paper III) Animal research has demonstrated that re-osseointegration can occur. The majority of human studies were found to be case reports. Using submerged healing and bone transplants, bone fill can occur in peri-implant defects. (Paper IV) Surgical treatment of peri-implantitis using a bone substitute with or without a resorbable membrane resulted in similar pocket depth reduction, attachment gain and defect fill. (Paper V) Bone substitute in combination with a resorbable membrane and a submerged healing resulted in defect fill > or =2 threads (1.2 mm) in 81% of the implants. (Paper VI) In conclusion: 9-14 years after implant installation peri-implant lesions are a common clinical entity. Smokers and patients with a history of periodontal disease are at higher risk to develop peri-implantitis. Clinical improvements and defect fill can be obtained with various surgical techniques using a bone substitute.     

Idiopathic paralysis of the palate in childhood

Idiopathic paralysis of the palate in childhood is an entity of unknown cause which resolves spontaneously and which affects mainly male children in their second and third years. Viral and vascular hypotheses have been proposed in order to explain its genesis. The authors report a case of this rare illness.     

Globulomaxillary cysts—do they really exist?

Objectives

The so-called “globulomaxillary cyst”, described as a fissural cyst, caused by entrapped epithelium between the nasal and maxillary process, is no longer considered for its own entity. Nevertheless, cystic lesions, which correspond to the previous image of globulomaxillary cysts, do still occur in daily practice. This raises the question to which entities pathological processes in this particular region actually belong to.

Materials and methods

In a retrospective study, 17 cases (12 men and 5 women, 12–59 years old) of primarily diagnosed globulomaxillary cysts are analysed according to clinical, radiological and histological aspects, catamnestic processed and assigned to a new entity. The results are compared with the international literature and draws conclusions on the diagnostic and therapeutic procedure.

Results

Seven lateral periodontal cysts, four radicular cysts, two keratocystic odontogenic tumours, one adenomatoid odontogenic tumour, one periapical granuloma, one residual cyst and one undefined jaw cyst were determined.

Conclusions

According to the results of our study and the data from the international literature, the entity globulomaxillary cyst is no longer justified.     

The glandular odontogenic cyst: an apparent entity

This article reports 8 examples of a rare cyst of the jaws that appears to be a distinct entity and which we have named glandular odontogenic cyst because of its unusual histopathological features. This lesion occurs over a wide age range in both sexes, tends to recur, and may become very large. However, one example in this series remained small over a period of 9 years; another, somewhat atypical example, was associated with an ameloblastoma.     

The glandular odontogenic cyst: an apparent entity

This article reports 8 examples of a rare cyst of the jaws that appears to be a distinct entity and which we have named glandular odontogenic cyst because of its unusual histopathological features. This lesion occurs over a wide age range in both sexes, tends to recur, and may become very large. However, one example in this series remained small over a period of 9 years; another, somewhat atypical example, was associated with an ameloblastoma.     

So-called simple bone cyst of the jaw: a family of pseudocysts of diverse nature and etiology.

The nature and etiology of so-called simple bone cyst (SBC) are still a subject of debate. Our comprehensive review of the literature suggests that SBC, which appears histologically to be a single entity, has different natures and etiologies, resulting in divergent clinical features. In addition, an interesting case of mandibular SBC in an 11-year-old girl is presented with details of radiographic changes over a 7-year period. Fully documented patient records revealed that this lesion originated in the apical area of the first molar and took about 4 years to develop into a clinically evident bony expansion.