Biomechanical aspects of oral implants. Consensus report of Working Group 1

The method used by the working group was an iterative process based upon a structured review of the relevant literature by a group of reporters. The review papers were circulated to the members of the group before the conference and formed the basis for subsequent discussions. Each paper was subject to detailed collective analysis and subsequently modified on the basis of the panel's discussions and referenced to additional relevant literature where appropriate. The group assessed the levels of evidence for the statements made in the supporting documentation and recognized that it was necessary to adopt a compromise between acceptance of the lowest level, resulting in the largest body of material, and the highest level, which, in some cases, produced little evidence. While this approach does not represent endorsement of lower evidence levels per se, it was designed to provide conclusions of clinical utility within the existing knowledge base. The consensus statements were prepared after a detailed consideration of the papers submitted to the workshop by the working group. The papers were scrutinized, amended and approved by the group. The basis of each paper is described in the section on 'search strategy' and defines the parameters within which the consensus statements were prepared.     

Biomechanical aspects of oral implants

Abstract: The method used by the working group was an iterative process based upon a structured review of the relevant literature by a group of rapporteurs. The review papers were circulated to the members of the group before the conference and formed the basis for subsequent discussions. Each paper was subject to detailed collective analysis and subsequently modified on the basis of the panel's discussions and referenced to additional relevant literature where appropriate. The group assessed the levels of evidence for the statements made in the supporting documentation and recognized that it was necessary to adopt a compromise between acceptance of the lowest level, resulting in the largest body of material, and the highest level, which, in some cases, produced little evidence. While this approach does not represent endorsement of lower evidence levels per se , it was designed to provide conclusions of clinical utility within the existing knowledge base. The consensus statements were prepared after a detailed consideration of the papers submitted to the workshop by the working group. The papers were scrutinized, amended and approved by the group. The basis of each paper is described in the section on 'search strategy' and defines the parameters within which the consensus statements were prepared.     

Function. Consensus report of Working Group 3

Abstract: The method used by the working group was an iterative process based upon a structured review of the relevant literature by the four author groups. Review papers were circulated to the members of the group before the conference and formed the basis for subsequent discussions. Each paper was subject to detailed collective analysis and subsequently modified on the basis of the panel's discussions and referenced to additional relevant literature where appropriate. The group assessed the levels of evidence for the claims and statements made in the supporting documentation. It was recognized that it was often necessary to adopt a compromise between acceptance of the lowest level, resulting in the largest body of material, and the highest level, which in some cases, produced little evidence. While this approach does not represent endorsement of lower evidence levels per se , it was designed to provide conclusions of clinical utility within the existing knowledge base. The papers, following the scrutiny, were amended and approved by the expert group. The consensus report was prepared by the working group after detailed considerations of the five approved papers.     

Epidemiology and oral function associated with tooth loss and prosthetic dental restorations. Consensus report of Working Group 1

Abstract: The method used by the working group was an iterative process based upon literature reviews of relevant publications by a working group of rapporteurs. The review papers were written and circulated before the conference and served as basis of discussion. Each paper was subject to a detailed collective analysis and modified and amended on the basis of the work group's discussions and referenced to additional relevant literature where appropriate. The group assessed the levels of evidence for the statements made in the supporting documentation and recognised that it was necessary to adopt a compromise between acceptance of the lowest level of evidence, resulting in the largest body of material, and the highest level which produced valuable but limited evidence. Where the objectives were not concerning an intervention, an RCT study design was not applicable and no focussed question could be formulated. Rather cross-sectional and repeated cross-sectional, as well as longitudinal cohort studies, were usually the evidence available.     

Epidemiology and oral function associated with tooth loss and prosthetic dental restorations. Consensus report of Working Group I

The method used by the working group was an iterative process based upon literature reviews of relevant publications by a working group of rapporteurs. The review papers were written and circulated before the conference and served as basis of discussion. Each paper was subject to a detailed collective analysis and modified and amended on the basis of the work group's discussions and referenced to additional relevant literature where appropriate. The group assessed the levels of evidence for the statements made in the supporting documentation and recognised that it was necessary to adopt a compromise between acceptance of the lowest level of evidence, resulting in the largest body of material, and the highest level which produced valuable but limited evidence. Where the objectives were not concerning an intervention, an RCT study design was not applicable and no focussed question could be formulated. Rather cross-sectional and repeated cross-sectional, as well as longitudinal cohort studies, were usually the evidence available.     

Factors influencing survival of reconstructions. Consensus report of Working Group 2

Abstract: In order to evaluate the level of evidence of factors influencing the survival of reconstructions, systematic reviews of the relevant literature were prepared by a group of rapporteurs. The review papers were circulated to the members of the group before the conference and formed the basis for group and panel discussions. Subsequently, modifications were added to the review papers, and suggestions for consensus statements concerning the following topics were prepared and again critically reviewed in the group and in the plenum: Impact of (i) periodontal disease on the survival of tooth-supported reconstructions, (ii) post-surgical factors as supportive therapy on the survival of implant supported reconstructions, (iii) technical and/or biological complications on the survival of different types of reconstructions, (iiii) material choice for reconstructions on the survival of single crowns and fixed dental prostheses.     

Short fiber‐reinforced composite restorations: A review of the current literature

A newly‐recommended method for restoring large cavities is the biomimetic approach of using short fiber‐reinforced composite (SFRC) as dentine‐replacing material. The aim of the current review was to present an overview of SFRC and to give the clinician a detailed understanding of this new material and treatment strategy based on available‐literature review. A thorough literature search was done up to December 2017. The range of relevant publications was surveyed using PubMed and Google Scholar. From the search results, articles related to our search terms were only considered. The search terms used were “short fiber‐reinforced composite”, “everX posterior”, and “fiber‐reinforced composite restorations”. Of the assessed articles selected (N = 70), most were laboratory‐based research with various test specimen designs prepared according to the ISO standard or with extracted teeth; only four articles were clinical reports. A common finding was that by combining the SFRC as a bulk base with conventional composite, the load‐bearing capacity and failure mode of the material combination were improved, as compared to plain conventional composite restoration. In the reviewed studies, the biomimetic restoration technique of using SFRC showed promising characteristics, and therefore, might be recommended as an alternative treatment option for large cavities.     

A comparison of yield in a non-systematic and a systematic review

OBJECTIVES: To compare the results of a non-systematic (A) and a systematic review (B) of test performance in oral cancer and precancer screening in terms of literature coverage, and qualitative and quantitative information yield. METHOD: For A, two databases were searched using basic search terms. Review B followed published guidelines. Nine databases were searched using three complex facets. In both reviews, one reviewer made the initial selection of relevant studies and, in A, carried out full text screening. In B, two independent reviewers carried out full text screening and then conferred on a final list of studies for inclusion and meta-analysis. RESULTS: In search A, 60 papers, and in B, 481 papers, were retrieved. Thirty from A, and 47 from B were selected for full text screening. From A, six papers, and from B, eight papers (six selected by the first reviewer and eight by the second; kappa = 0.83), were designated for inclusion in meta-analysis. The six papers from A were common to all selections. Seven papers were finally included in B. Compared with the non-systematic review, meta-analysis in the systematic review reduced the 95% CI for sensitivity from 0.594, 0.912 (= 0.318) to 0.713, 0.919 (= 0.189) resulting from the inclusion of a larger number of verified cases. The 95% CI for specificity changed only from 0.941, 0.991 (= 0.050) to 0.930, 0.982 (= 0.052). DISCUSSION: Both reviews had the same exacting and specific inclusion criteria. The papers ultimately included in each were closely matched. Advantages of the systematic review were 1) it afforded a degree of confidence that the literature had been exhaustively and systematically searched, 2) the use of a formal data extraction process ensured that clinical heterogeneity among the studies and its consequences were thoroughly explored, 3) the increased number of verified cases included in the systematic review meta-analysis led to the pooled estimate for sensitivity having greater precision.     

The use of a linear oscillating device in periodontal treatment: a review

Background: The Vector^? system is an ultrasonic instrument that was introduced in 1999, and treatment outcomes with Vector have been compared with those achieved with the “gold standard” of scaling and root planing with Gracey curettes as well as conventional ultrasonic scalers. The aim of this paper is to review the existing literature regarding the Vector^? method. Material and Methods: This review is based on a MEDLINE search of the use of Vector up to January 2008 (focused on in vitro findings, periodontal treatment, peri‐implantitis therapy, clinical and microbiological data, and patient considerations). The MEDLINE search identified 128 papers, of which 18 were found to be relevant to this review. A hand search of the periodontal literature over the same period resulted in identification of a further 10 relevant papers. Conclusion: Vector^? used for treatment of chronic periodontitis results in clinical and microbiological outcomes comparable to those achieved by manual instrumentation and conventional ultrasonic instruments. Vector^? is less efficient when removing large masses of calculus, however, and cannot be recommended for the treatment of peri‐implantitis. Vector may be particularly useful in periodontal maintenance care as it is well tolerated by patients and results in less removal of cementum than other instruments.     

Cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT) imaging of the oral and maxillofacial region: A systematic review of the literature

This study reviewed the literature on cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT) imaging of the oral and maxillofacial (OMF) region. A PUBMED search (National Library of Medicine, NCBI; revised 1 December 2007) from 1998 to December 2007 was conducted. This search revealed 375 papers, which were screened in detail. 176 papers were clinically relevant and were analyzed in detail. CBCT is used in OMF surgery and orthodontics for numerous clinical applications, particularly for its low cost, easy accessibility and low radiation compared with multi-slice computerized tomography. The results of this systematic review show that there is a lack of evidence-based data on the radiation dose for CBCT imaging. Terminology and technical device properties and settings were not consistent in the literature. An attempt was made to provide a minimal set of CBCT device-related parameters for dedicated OMF scanners as a guideline for future studies.     

Developments in dental plaque pH modelling

OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this review were to give a comprehensive account of the methods used to determine dental plaque pH over the last 50 years, to review how these methods have been used in dental cariology research and to give an update as to how dental plaque pH studies might be developed in the future. DATA: Published, referred papers and abstracts of conference proceedings in the literature were reviewed. SOURCES: A comprehensive search of the electronic databases PubMed and Medline, was undertaken. In addition, a hand search of the Index Denticus was done to identify relevant citations before 1966. STUDY SELECTION: Relevant published literature in peer-reviewed publications was reviewed. No additional inclusion criteria were applied. CONCLUSIONS: This comprehensive review gives an account of the background to, history of, relative merits and demerits of, applications of and future of dental plaque pH technologies.     

Common Risk Factors in the Management of Periodontal and Associated Systemic Diseases: The Dental Setting and Interprofessional Collaboration

There is a role for dentistry in the interprofessional management of chronic diseases by addressing common risk factorsBackgroundA critical scientific foundation has developed for management of risk factors common to major diseases including periodontal disease, caries, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to critically review this scientific literature. This will provide the basis for the current and future role of the dental setting in common risk factor identification and modification; with an emphasis on the role of the dental hygienist.MethodsA systematic review of the literature and analysis of the relevant papers was undertaken to support the recommendations.ConclusionsWe propose that the appropriate risk factor management procedures be adopted in the dental setting for smoking cessation, reduction of sugar consumption, and weight control in those patients at risk for one or a combination of the following diseases: periodontal disease, caries, diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.     

Mineral trioxide aggregate in paediatric dentistry

Objective.  The aim of this study was to present a review of the reported literature on: (i) the physical and chemical properties; and (ii) clinical applications of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) in the practice of paediatric dentistry.
Method.  Electronic literature search of scientific papers from January 1993 to June 2008 was carried out on the MEDLINE, Embase, Entrez Pubmed, and Scopus databases using specific key words. The search yielded 448 papers, out of which 100 were identified as conforming to the applied criteria. These papers formed the basis of the review and the clinical scenarios presented which demonstrate the application of MTA in the practice of paediatric dentistry.
Conclusion.  Paediatric dentists have successfully employed MTA in a variety of endodontic/restorative applications since the late 1990s. Clinical impressions have generally been favourable and support the findings of laboratory and animal-based investigations. Very few clinical studies have been reported so far in humans, and although these have been positive, the body of research is currently insufficient to enable a meaningful systematic review and meta-analysis.     

Localization of impacted maxillary canines using cone beam computed tomography. Review of the literature

This review analyzed the literature focused on Cone- Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) diagnostic accuracy and efficacy in detecting impacted maxillary canines, and evaluated the possible advantages in using CBCT technique compared with traditional radiographs. PubMed and Embase searches were performed selecting papers since 1998 up to September 2011, moreover reference lists were hand searched. Two reviewers selected relevant publications on the basis of predetermined inclusion criteria. The literature search yielded 94 titles, of which 5 were included in the review. Three studies used CBCT technique to 3D localize maxillary impacted canines and assess root resorption of adjacent teeth. Other two publications compared traditional radiographs with CBCT images in the diagnosis of maxillary impacted canines. Only three studies presented the results using statistical analysis. The present review highlighted that the use of CBCT has a potential diagnostic effect and may influence the outcome of treatment when compared with traditional panoramic radiography for the assessment of impacted maxillary canines. Furthermore it underlines the need of future studies performed according with high level methodological standards, investigating diagnostic accuracy and effectiveness of CBCT in the diagnosis of maxillary impacted teeth.     

New approaches to dental occlusion: a literature update

Because the study of occlusion is a basic area in dentistry, its components, physiology and integration with the stomatognathic system (SS) have been the subject of interest in the scientific literature. However, the focus given to this issue has changed substantially. Currently, new approaches have been proposed in order to update concepts and to demonstrate the full integration and functionality of this system within the human body. With this approach, the authors proposed the following literature review aimed at gathering recent papers (published from 2000 to 2010) with innovative study design, methodology and/or results. The authors' intention is to show the main trends in the study of occlusion and the SS. The literature review was conducted in the PubMed database, using initially the term "dental occlusion" as a key-word. As items of interest were found, papers were grouped by categories according to their main subject matter. Forty-seven articles were selected and the main categories obtained were: 1. functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI); 2. brain activation; 3. masticatory/occlusal function; 4. body function and physical performance; 5. osseoperception; 6. finite element models; and 7. occlusion and pain. Observing the current literature, the authors found that recent studies present different methodologies for the study of occlusion. These studies have allowed scientists to obtain detailed information about the physiology of occlusion and the SS, as well as about its integration in the body. Research in this area should be continued in order to clarify, in detail, the role of each component of the SS and its interaction with human physiology.     

Ocular and adnexal anomalies in craniofacial microsomia: a systematic review

Ocular anomalies may occur in craniofacial microsomia (CFM). The aim of this systematic review was to review the literature on ocular anomalies and their incidence, in order to estimate the need for ophthalmological screening in CFM patients. Online databases were searched, and data on the number of patients, type and incidence of ocular anomalies, and visual acuity were extracted. Four subgroups of ocular and adnexal anomalies were identified, to provide an overview of the different anomalies. Twenty-five papers analysing 1419 patients in total were included. Ocular anomalies were documented in 6.7–100% of patients. The most reported type I ocular anomalies were eyelid coloboma, lipodermoids, and orbital dystopia. The most reported type II ocular anomalies were epibulbar dermoid, microphthalmia, and anophthalmia. Ptosis and strabismus were the most reported type III anomalies, and irregular astigmatism was the most reported type IV ocular anomaly. Visual impairment in general was reported in 8–71.4% of patients, with severe visual impairment in 11.1–71.4% and amblyopia in 16.3%. This study provides a detailed overview of ocular anomalies in CFM and their prevalence. Furthermore, we propose a new classification to organize ocular anomalies into four clinically relevant subtypes. Finally, the high prevalence of ocular anomalies and visual impairment in this study suggests that CFM patients should undergo ophthalmological screening at least once during the sensitive period.     

Review of ultrasonic irrigation in endodontics: increasing action of irrigating solutions

Introduction: Effective irrigant delivery and agitation are prerequisites for successful endodontic treatment. Ultrasonic irrigation can be performed with or without simultaneous ultrasonic instrumentation. Existing literature reveals that ultrasonic irrigation may have a very positive effect on chemical, biological and physical debridement of the root canal system as investigated in many in vitro studies. Objective: The purpose of this review article was to summarize and discuss the available information concerning ultrasonic irrigation in endodontics. Methods: This article presents an overview of ultrasonic irrigation methods and their debridement efficacy. In this paper the relevant literature on passive ultrasonic irrigation is reviewed. Information from original scientific papers or reviews listed in MEDLINE and Cochrane were included in the review. Results: The use of ultrasound in the irrigation procedure results in improved canal cleanliness, better irrigant transfer to the canal system, soft tissue debridement, and removal of smear layer and bacteria. There are many in vitro studies, but there is a need to standardize protocols, and correlate the clinical efficacy of ultrasonic devices with improved treatment outcomes. Understanding the basis of ultrasonic irrigation is fundamental for clinicians and researchers to improve the design and use of ultrasonic irrigation. Key words:Ultrasonic irrigation, ultrasound, smear layer, endodontics.