bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbiologic tests in epidemiologic studies: are they reproducible?
Authors: Aass A. M. , Preus H. R. , Zambon J. J. , Gjermo P.
Published: October 2007

Microbiologic assessments are often included in longitudinal studies to elucidate the significance of the association of certain Gram‐negative bacteria and the development of periodontal diseases. In such studies, the reliability of methods is crucial. There are several methods to identify putative pathogens, and some of them are commercially available. The purpose of the present study was to compare the reproducibility of four different methods for detecting Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Prevotella intermedia in order to evaluate their usefulness in epidemiologic studies. The test panel consisted of 10 young subjects and 10 adult periodontitis patients. Subgingival plaque was sampled from sites showing bone loss and “healthy” control sites. The four different methods for detecting the target bacteria were 1) cultivation, 2) Evalusite (a chair‐side kit based on ELISA), 3) OmniGene, Inc. based on DNA probes, and 4) indirect immunofluorescence (IIF). The test procedure was repeated after a 1‐wk interval and was performed by one examiner. Sites reported to be positive for a microorganism by any of the four methods at one or both examinations were considered to be positive for that organism and included in the analysis. The reproducibility of the four methods was low. The IIF and the cultivation methods showed somewhat higher reproducibility than did the commercial systems. A second test was done for Evalusite, three paper points for sampling being used instead of one as described in the manual. The reproducibility of the second test was improved, indicating that the detection level of the system may influence the reliability.
Dental injuries, temporomandibular disorders, and caries in wrestlers
Authors: Persson Leif G. , Kiliaridis Stavros
Published: October 2007

The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of dental injuries, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), and dental caries in a group of champion wrestlers. Twenty‐six male wrestlers, with a mean age of 23 yr, and an age‐matched control group participated in the study. A questionnaire was used with questions on trauma, frequency of headache, intensity of practicing sports, use of sugar‐containing “sports drinks”, use of mouth guards, and previous TMD problems. Four bitewing radiographs were taken in all subjects. In addition, three intraoral apical radiographs of maxillary and mandibular frontal regions were taken in the wrestlers. The number of existing teeth, dental caries, amount and type of restorations, and dental injuries were recorded. Examination of the stomatognathic system comprised bilateral palpation of the masseter and temporal muscles and lemporomandibular joints, and evaluation of the mandibular movements. None of the subjects had drunk sports drinks or worn mouth protectors regularly. The wrestlers had more frequent and severe dental injuries localized to the frontal region of the maxilla than the controls. No statistical differences were found in the prevalence of caries or TMD between the groups.
Synovectomy and diskectomy of the temporomandibular joint in patients with chronic arthritic disease compared with diskectomies in patients with internal derangement. A 3‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Bjørnland Tore , Larheim Tore A.
Published: October 2007

Twenty‐five temporomandibular joints (TMJs) in 15 patients with chronic arthritic disease were treated with synovectomy and diskectomy. Twenty patients with internal derangement of 27 TMJs treated with diskectomy served as a control group. A response in pain relief was seen in 73% of the patients with chronic arthritic disease and in 80% of the patients with internal derangement 3 yr postoperatively. In both groups of patients a significant increase in mouth opening capacity and lateral movement of the mandible was seen postoperatively, with no significant difference in the improvement between the two groups. Four patients with chronic arthritic disease were reoperated within the 3‐yr observation period. This study indicates that synovectomy and diskectomy of the TMJ may reduce pain and improve mandibular function in patients with severe chronic arthritic TMJ disease.
Calprotectin levels in oral fluids: the importance of collection site
Authors: Cuida Mihaela , Brun Johan G. , Tynning Turid , Jonsson Roland
Published: October 2007

Calprotectin is a major protein of granulocytes and monocytes with antimicrobial properties, and is released during activation or cell death. In the present stud' the levels of Calprotectin in various oral fluids were analyzed in 12 healthy adults using different collection devices. Parotid saliva, stimulated whole saliva and “mucosal transudate” were collected and analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed mean concentrations of 3.2, 22.0 and 40.9 mg/l in the respective oral fluids, illustrating great variation of Calprotectin levels between different oral fluids. The results are in accordance with the composition of these saliva samples; the lowest Calprotectin level was obtained in parotid saliva, which contains the purest secretion. These findings illustrate the importance of careful sampling procedures. The levels of salivary calprotectin are markedly influenced by the site of collection.
Proteolytic enzymes as indicators of periodontal health in gingival crevicular fluid of patients with Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Tervahartiala Taina , Ingman Tuula , Sorsa Timo , Ding Yanli , Kangaspunta Petiri , Konttinen Yrjö T.
Published: October 2007

The present study characterizes the periodontal status of patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SS) and measures collagenase, elastase and gelatinase in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from these patients compared with adult individuals with periodontitis and healthy controls. The periodontal status was assessed by the Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI), the Visible Plaque Index (VPI), and pocket depth. Activity measurements were performed for collagenase with SDS‐PAGE/ laser densitometry, for elastase spectrophotometrically using a synthetic N‐succinyl‐Ala‐Ala‐Val p‐nitroanilide peptide substrate, and for gelatinase with zymography. Seven of the 8 patients with SS and xerostomia showed a periodontium comparable to that seen in healthy controls. The GCF collagenase and elastase were significantly lower in patients with SS and in healthy controls than in patients with adult periodontitis. It was noteworthy that the one SS patient with periodontitis had high GCF collagenase and elastase activity. In all study groups multiple forms of gelatinases were present, indicating that they represent constitutively expressed proteinases involved in normal tissue remodeling processes. Our findings suggest that periodontal pockets/GCF form a micromilieu not affected by involvement of glandular tissue and, therefore, patients with SS show, clinically and biochemically, a periodontal status comparable to that seen in healthy controls.
Longitudinal study of caries, cariogenic bacteria and diet in children just before and after starting school
Authors: Holbrook W. Peter , Árnadóttir Inga B. , Takazoe Ichiro , Birkhed Dowen , Frostell Göran
Published: October 2007

Fifty 5‐yr‐old preschool children living in Akranes, a small community in West Iceland known to have a high caries prevalence, were investigated with respect to caries, salivary counts of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli and consumption of cariogenic foods. Fifteen months later, after being in school for half a year, 43 of the 50 children were reexamined and investigated as before. Mean dmfs scores rose from 7.1 to 9.0. but the scores including initial caries rose from 9.7 to 15.3. Mutans streptococci were carried by 84% of children on both occasions with a mean count 2.1 and 3.6 × 105 cfu/ml. Lactobacillus carriage increased from 29 to 38% and the mean count from 5.1 to 13 × 103 cfu/ml at 6 yr. The frequency of consumption of sugar‐containing foods increased from 4.2 to 5.2 intakes per day and between‐meal snacks rose from 3.0 to 3.7 per day. Children classified as “misusing” sugar were 59% at 5 yr and 83% at 6 yr. The mean caries score at 6 yr for children “misusing” sugar was 10.7 but only 2.0 for those not misusing sugar. Thus the deterioration in dental health appears, in these children, to be associated with the increased consumption of sweets and other cariogenic between‐meal snacks after starting school.
A simple method for monitoring mutans streptococci in young children
Authors: Pienihäkkinen Kaisu , Jokela Jorma
Published: October 2007

The study assessed the practicability of the Dentocult‐SM® STRIP MUTANS test in children, using dental floss to transfer the denial plaque to the strip. The subjects were children of 2–3 yr (n= 365) and 5–6 yr (n= 398). The rnutans streptocci count on the strip was found to be a good Indicator of infection and was surprisingly accurate in the prediction of the 3‐yr caries increment.
Enhanced formation of secondary dentin in the absence of nerve supply to feline teeth
Authors: Olgart Leif , Matsuo Masato , Lindskog Sven , Edwall Lennart
Published: October 2007

This investigation was designed to study the formation of secondary dentin in permanent teeth of young cats after denervation. In eight animals, cervical dentin was exposed bilaterally in the mandibular canines, 7–10 d after unilateral resection of the inferior alveolar nerve. The observation intervals were 30 d, 90 d and 180 d, after which histological examination of dentin was performed. In order to verify the loss and regeneration of pulpal innervation and an intact blood supply, blood flow responses to electrical stimulation of the tooth and to i.v. injections of substance P (SP) were recorded by laser Doppler flowmetry before and at 7–10 d after denervation, at the end of the experiments, and at predetermined intermediate intervals. SP‐induced vase‐dilation was significantly enhanced at 1 wk and 30 d postoperatively and was normalized to control values at 90 and 180 d. Vasodilation in response to electrical tooth stimulation, which was absent after denervation, reappeared after 90 d in two of four cats. There was no irregular dentin formation under the exposed dentin at any time in denervated or control teeth. Formation of regular secondary dentin appeared to be enhanced on the denervated side at 30 d and 90 d postoperatively, whereas at 180 d there was no difference between sides. The results indicate that intradental nerves influence secondary dentin formation in feline permanent teeth.
Development of plaque and gingivitis after mouthrinsing with 0.2% delmopinol hydrochloride
Authors: Hase Jan C. , Söder Per‐östen , Söder Birgitta , Kulstad Søren , Kelty Eva
Published: October 2007

A double‐blind, randomized, 2‐wk experimental gingivitis clinical trial with cross‐over design in 14 dental students was conducted in order to study the efficacy and safety of delmopinol hydrochloride solution (2 rug/ml), used with no other oral hygiene procedures, in comparison with placebo. Plaque formation was measured by the Quigley & Hein Plaque Index and gingivitis was assessed by bleeding on probing according to Mühlemann & Son. Rinsing with delmopinol resulted in lower plaque scores compared to placebo. The development of gingivitis was weak during the 2‐wk test periods, and thus no conclusive results were obtained. As in previous studies, the most frequent adverse event when rinsing with delmopinol was a transient anaesthetic sensation in the oral mucosa. The results showed that rinsing with delmopinol hydrochloride solution (2 mg/ml) for 60 s twice daily with no other oral hygiene procedures led to less plaque formation than rinsing with placebo. This study also showed good tolerance and acceptability of mouthrinsing with delmopinol.
Experiments with two‐phase plaque‐inhibiting mouthrinses
Authors: Kjærheim Vibeke , Waaler Sonni Mette , Kalvik Anne
Published: October 2007

Reports indicate that oil/water mouthrinses with an aqueous phase containing an antibacterial agent, reduce the amount of volatile bacterial products in expiration air compared with aqueous mouthrinses. These systems have not, however, been tested concerning antiplaque activity. The aim of the present study was to examine the plaque‐inhibiting effect of a mouthrinse with an aqueous phase containing 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX) and an oily phase (soya oil) containing 0.3% triclosan. A test panel rinsed with the mouthrinses twice daily for 4 d. The mouthrinse containing CHX and triclosan in two phases was significantly better than the negative control (water). However, it was not as effective as the rinse consisting of an aqueous phase with chlorhexidine combined with an oily phase without triclosan. A two‐phase mouthrinse with soya oil containing 0.3% triclosan was not superior to soya oil alone, and the combination of CHX and triclosan in a two‐phase rinse was not as effective as 0.1% CHX alone in water. No beneficial effect on plaque inhibition could thus be found by using a two‐phase system with two different antibacterial agents (one water soluble and one lipid soluble). Soya oil without triclosan rendered higher plaque inhibition than the control, presumably due to formation of a hydrophobic layer on the tooth surfaces.
The association between oral leukoplakia and use of tobacco, alcohol and that based on relative risks assessment in Kenya
Authors: Macigo Francis Grthua , Mwaniki David Lemmy , Guthua Simon Wangombe
Published: October 2007

A case‐control study was conducted to determine the significance of tobacco, alcohol and Khat (Catlia edulis) chewing habits in the development of oral leukoplakia among Kenyans aged 15 yr and over. In a house‐to‐house survey, 85 cases and 141 controls matched for sex, age and cluster origin was identified and compared for these risk factors. Smoking unprocessed tobacco (Kiraiku) with a relative risk (RR) of 10.0 (95% confidence interval (CI)=2.9‐38.4) and smoking cigarettes (RR = 8.4; 95% CI = 4.1‐17.4) were the most significant factors. While the RR associated with smoking cigarettes alone was 4.5 (95% CI= 1.9‐10.8), smoking of both products (RR= 15.2) suggested probable synergy or additive effects. Oral leukoplakia in 18 cases could not be attributed to smoking tobacco. Commercial beer, wines and spirits were relatively weak, but statistically significant, risk factors. Traditional beer, khat and chilies were not significantly associated with oral leukoplakia.
Salivary and serum IgA antigliadin antibodies in dermatitis herpetiformis
Authors: Patinen Pertti , Björksten Fred , Malmström Maria , Savilahrtl Erkki , Reunala Timo
Published: October 2007

Serum IgA class antigliadin antibodies (IgA‐AGA) are increased in untreated patients with coeliac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis (DH), and it has been suggested that salivary IgA‐AGA measurements could be used as a non‐invasive screening test for gluten‐sensitive enteropathy. In the present study salivary and serum IgA‐AGA were measured by an ELISA test in 10 untreated patients with DH. The results were compared to IgA‐AGA levels in nine patients with DH on a long‐term gluten‐free diet (GFD) and in 20 healthy control subjects on an ordinary diet. The mean serum but not salivary IgA‐AGA concentrations were significantly higher in the untreated than in the patients with DH on a long‐term GFD. When the 10 untreated patients with DH adhered to a GFD for 3 months, the rash disappeared and the mean serum IgA‐AGA decreased to normal levels, but no change was found in the mean salivary IgA‐AGA concentration. These results show that serum but not salivary IgA‐AGA measurements are suitable for monitoring GFD treatment in patients with DH. The discrepancy between the serum and salivary IgA‐AGA concentrations suggests that systemic and salivary IgA‐AGA responses are controlled separately.
Effects of mouth rinses with chlorhexidine and zinc ions combined with fluoride on the viability and glycolytic activity of dental plaque
Authors: Giertsen Elin , Scheie Anne Aamdal
Published: October 2007

Inhibition of plaque acidogenicity by a mouthrinse with chlorhexidine (CHX) or zinc ions has been ascribed to a prolonged bacteriostasis due to substantive properties of the agents. The present aim was to study the effects of mouthrinses with CHX and Zn ions combined with fluoride on the viability and glycolytic activity of dental plaque in order to assess the bacteriostatic versus possible bactericidal effects. Following 2 d of plaque accumulation, 4 groups of 10 students rinsed with either 12 mM NaF (F), 0.55 mM CHX diacetate + F (F‐CHX), 10 mM Zn acetate+F (F‐Zn), or with the three agents in combination (F‐CHX‐Zn). Plaque samples were collected before and 90 min after mouthrinsing. Thereafter, the in vivo plaque pH response to sucrose was monitored in each student using touch microelectrodes. F‐CHX and F‐CHX‐Zn reduced the in vivo pH fall significantly as compared with F. whereas F‐Zn exerted a non‐significant inhibition. Pooled pre‐ and post‐rinse plaque samples were used to measure the pH fall during fermentation of [14C]‐glucose, and the glycolytic profiles were analyzed by HPLC. Bacterial viability was assessed by counting the colony‐forming units (CPU). All mouthrinses except F reduced glucose consumption and acid formation and thus the pH fall. F‐CHX reduced the CFU equal to the reduction of glucose consumption, indicating that inhibition of plaque acidogenicity was due to a bactericidal rather than a bacteriostatic effect. F and F‐Zn did not reduce the CFU, thus F‐Zn decreased glucose metabolism without affecting plaque viability. F‐CHX‐Zn reduced both the CFU and glucose metabolism of surviving plaque microorganisms.
Factor analysis and reduction of a Fear Survey Schedule among dental phobic patients
Authors: Berggren Ulf , Carlsson Sven G. , Gustafsson Jan‐Eric , Hakeberg Magnus
Published: October 2007

A fear survey instrument, based on the Fear Survey Schedule‐II and five additional fear items, was administered to 109 patients (70 women and 39 men) on a waiting list at a specialized dental fear clinic. The fear survey was analyzed to identify its factorial structure. Five fear factors, explaining 54% of the total variance, were identified concerning areas of “illness and death”, “failures and embarrassment”, “social situations”, “physical injuries”, and “animals and natural phenomena”. An ad hoc reduction of items was carried out to form a shorter, more practical to use questionnaire, which resulted in factors of four or five items with loadings greater than 0.50. The factors intercorrelated significantly (rp varying between 0.33 and 0.59) and “illness and death” correlated highly with “physical injuries” (rp=0.59) and “animals and natural phenomena” (rp=0.56), while “failures and embarrassment” correlated highly to “social situations” (rp= 0.54). Statistically significant, but generally lower correlations were found between each factor and the dental fear measures. The highest correlations were found between fear of “physical injuries” and dental fear. There was also a high and significant correlation between sex and fear of “animals and natural phenomena”.
Anatomic relationship between substance P‐ and CGRP‐immunoreactive nerve fibers and mast cells in the palatal mucosa of the rat
Authors: Matsson Lars , Norevall Lars‐Inge , Forsgren Sture
Published: October 2007

The study describes the distribution of mast cells and of substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP)‐immunoreactive nerve fibers in the rat palatal mucosa, focusing on the anatomic relationship between these tissue elements. The maxilla of 10‐14‐wk‐old rats was dissected free, fixed, demineralized and frozen. Consecutive sections were stained with avidin peroxidase or processed for immunohistochemistry. In order to define the correlation between nerve fibers and mast cells, double staining techniques were used. The distance between each avidin‐positive mast cell and the nearest detectable nerve fiber was determined. 5‐Hydroxytryptamine‐ (5‐HT) and avidin peroxidase‐positive mast cells were frequently seen in the palatal mucosa but were rarely found in the gingival area. A large number of nerve fibers showing SP‐ and CGRP‐like immunoreactivity were seen, particularly in association with blood vessels. Some nerve fibers were located in contact with or very close to the mast cells but the vast majority of mast cells showed no close anatomic association to nerve fibers. The nerve fibers and mast cells were mainly concentrated to the same regions in the palatal mucosa where blood vessels occurred. The observations suggest that in the rat palatal mucosa the main functional relationship relates to SP/CGRP and the blood vessels, and only to a minor degree to SP/CGRP and mast cells.
Spontaneous gingival antibody production to Fusobacterium nucleatum outer membrane in patients with adult periodontitis
Authors: Nunes Ivana Pereira , Nilsen Rune , Kristoffersen Tore , Jonsson Roland
Published: October 2007

The local antibody response to Fusobacterium nucleatum outer membrane (FnOM) was analyzed in patients with adult periodontitis (AP) at the single cell level. Furthermore, we analyzed whether periodontal hygienic treatment could alter the antibody response. The number of IgG‐ and IgM‐producing cells were investigated in gingival samples collected from 20 patients with AP. The patients were divided into 2 groups, before (BT, n=9) and after (AT, n=11) periodontal hygienic treatment. Four healthy gingival samples were used as controls. The results obtained showed that local antibody production against FnOM occurred in gingiva of patients with AP, but not in healthy gingiva. The IgG anti‐FnOM was the predominant isotype observed. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the BT and AT groups. These results indicate that periodontal hygienic treatment was not sufficient to alter significantly the number of IgG‐ arid IgM‐secreting cells present in gingival tissue of AP patients, but it promoted a reduction of IgG anti‐FnOM secreting cells. The presence of anti‐FnOM antibodies in AP but not in control patients indicates that this bacteria may play a role in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease.
Panoramic and restrictive intraoral radiography in comprehensive oral radiographic diagnosis
Authors: Molander Björn , Ahlqwist Margareta , Gröndahl Hans‐Göran
Published: October 2007

It has been suggested that information from the panoramic radiograph makes it possible to appropriately select supplementary intraoral radiographs to achieve a comprehensive examination of teeth and surrounding bone with less patient dose but no significant information loss. Number of intraoral radiographs selected, information loss and monetary costs with such a procedure was evaluated in 40 patients. Results show that, on average, 5.1 intraoral radiographs were selected to supplement the panoramic radiograph. Of these, 3.1 contained information different from that in the panoramic radiograph but 2.0 did not. An additional 3.4 ought to have been taken to reach the result of the ‘gold standard’ achieved from a simultaneous evaluation by two expert observers of panoramic radiographs and full mouth surveys with intraoral radiographs. Sensitivity for the combined use of panoramic and supplementary intraoral radiographs was high (80–96%, depending on type of teeth) as regards periapical lesions and marginal bone loss but low for caries (42–96%). Specificity was high for periapical lesions and caries (95–97%) but low for marginal bone loss (50–92%). In Sweden, patient costs become almost the same for a combination of panoramic radiography and 8.5’intraoral radiographs as for a full mouth survey comprising 20 intraoral radiographs. The radiation dose reduction is 40–50% considering that the dose from a panoramic radiograph approximately corresponds to 2–4 intraoral radiographs. We conclude that using panoramic radiography in combination with selected intraoral radiographs is possible if the radiographic examination is preceded by a thorough clinical examination and the following parameters are correctly evaluated before the examination: patient category, radiation dose, information loss, patient discomfort, time consumption and monetary costs.
Expression of HLA class II antigens in marginal periodontitis of patients with Down's syndrome
Authors: Sehoel Per David Clee , Johannessen Anne Christine , Kristoffersen Tore , Nilsen Rune
Published: October 2007

The expression of HLA Class II antigens on the surfaces of immunocompetent cells and the presence of CDla+ cells (Langerhans cells) are important components of antigen presentation. Quantitative variations in HLA class II expression on antigen‐presenting cells play a role in immune regulation. An indirect irnmunofluorescent technique was used on cryostat sections to reveal such differences qualitatively or quantitatively between chronic marginal periodontitis (CMP) in patients with Down's syndrome (DS) and in otherwise normal patients (NP). We found increased frequency of HLA Class II (HLA‐expression on inflammatory cells and on keratinocytes of the oral gingival epithelium) in CMP of DS patients compared to sections from NP. The expression of HLA‐DR was more frequent on the keratinocytes of the pocket epithelium in NP than in DS. There were significantly higher numbers of CD1a+ cells and ratios of HLA‐DR+/CD1a+ cells and HLA‐DP+/CD1a+ cells in the DS group compared to the NP group. Our conclusion is that there is a more pronounced inflammatory process in the gingival sites with CMP of DS patients compared to CMP in NP. The findings also indicate that there is a highly activated immune response in CMP of DS patients.
Bafilomycin A1 in bone resorption and tooth eruption in dogs
Authors: Marks Sandy C. , Sundquist Kai T.
Published: October 2007

Tooth eruption depends on bone resorption to form an eruption pathway. We have previously shown that a 2‐wk local infusion of bafilomycin A, an inhibitor of vacuolar H+‐ATPases in osteodasts, into the crypts of erupting mandibular premolars in dogs blocks bone resorption during this period and eruption of these teeth is delayed for 8 wk. Here we report the limits of inhibition of resorption that still permit eruption of these teeth, In 3 dogs 10−6 M bafilomycin was delivered by osmotic minipumps early (18 wk) in eruption to the fourth premolar for 1, 3 or 4 wk. Radiographs taken at weekly intervals thereafter showed that bafilomycin delivery for I wk delayed eruption for 3 wk, delivery for 3 wk delayed eruption 9 wk and delivery for 4 wk prevented eruption. These data show that tooth eruption is delayed in direct proportion to the time resorption is blocked, and that this process for dog premolars cannot be blocked for more than 3 wk with 10−6 M bafilomycin without blocking eruption itself.
Efficacy of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) with osteopromotive membranes – an experimental study in rat mandibular defects
Authors: Hedner Ewa , Linde Anders
Published: October 2007

The effect of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) on healing of standardized bone defects was studied with and without the placement of osteopromotive membranes. Two different bovine BMP (bBMP) preparations were tested. These contained primarily collagen as a carrier. Standardized transosseous bone defects, 5 mro in diameter, were created in mandibles of rats. If left untreated, such “critical size defects” never heal during the lifetime of the animal, whereas covering with an osteopromotive membrane is known to cause complete healing of the defects in 6 weeks. The bBMP was implanted in defects and were either covered with an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e‐PTFE) membrane (GORE–TEX®) or were left uncovered. Control defects did not receive any bBMP and were either covered with membrane or were left uncovered. Histological evaluation was made after 12 d and 24 d of healing, respectively. Implantation of bBMP alone was associated with formation of voluminous amounts of new bone, resulting in essentially complete defect healing at 24 d. However, the combination of membrane and bBMP was dearly less effective in stimulating bone healing, being only about as efficient as when using membranes alone. It was concluded that whereas both bBMP preparations were strongly osteoinductive, no further improvement of bone healing was seen when the membrane technique was supplemented with bBMP, compared to membrane alone. An explanation may be that the presence of an e‐PTFE membrane prevents the degradation of the carrier material in the preparations, thus strongly reducing the availability of bBMP.
Effect of temperature and duration of post‐cure on in vitro wear and quantity of remaining double bonds of resins containing carboxylic anhydride
Authors: Peutzfeldt Anne
Published: October 2007

The present study determined the effect of post‐cure temperature and duration on in vitro wear resistance and quantity of remaining double bonds of anhydride‐containing resins. Temperatures were varied between 37 °C and 225 °C, and durations were varied between 0 and 24 h. The quantity of remaining double bonds could not be established for post‐cure temperatures of 200 °C or more due to melting of the polymer. A temperature of approximately 120 °C had optimal effect on wear resistance. Quantity of remaining double bonds and wear were found to decrease with increasing duration of post‐cure. Low quantities of remaining double bonds were generally associated with low in vitro wear.
Plaque bacteria counts and vitality during chlorhexidine, Meridol and Listerine mouthrinses
Authors: Netuschil Lutz , Weiger Roland , Preisler Ralf , Brecx Michel
Published: October 2007

The aim of this double‐blind study was to enumerate the total number of living and dead bacteria on defined tooth areas during the application of antibacterial mouthrinses. After prophylaxis, 40 students refrained from all oral hygiene measures for 3 d, during which they rinsed with a phenolic compound (Listerine), an amine fluoride/stannous fluoride solution (Meridol), 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX) or a control solution (0.02% quinine‐hydrochloride). The plaque index (PII) was recorded at the start and the end of the investigation. Total bacterial counts (BC) and colony‐forming units (CPU) of 1d‐, 2d‐ and 3d‐old dentogingival plaque were determined. The plating efficiency (PE) was calculated as a percentage of CFU/BC and the portion of vital microflora estimated by a vital fluorescence technique (VF). All groups started with a P1I approximating 0.1. On day 3, the P1J values were 1.21 in the control group and 0.51, 0.37 and 0.14 after Listerine, Meridol and CHX use, respectively. A tremendous variation existed between the numbers of viable bacteria found per mm‐ on the enamel surface on day 3 (CHX: 0.2: Meridol: 300; Listerine: 6×104; control: 2×106). while higher total numbers of bacteria were concomitantly present (CHX and Meridol: 1–2×104; Listerine: 2×105: control: 2×106). Both vitality parameters PE and VF reached 92% in the control group at day 3, but only 7% after CHX use. With Meridol and Listerine, the corresponding PE values were 3% and 43%, respectively, while the VF values reached 48% and 54%. The P1I, BC, CFU and PE values of the CHX and the Meridol groups differed significantly from those of the control group. In contrast, Listerine showed no difference as compared to the control rinse. Due to the strong antibacterial action of CHX and Meridol during their use, almost only dead or non‐proliferating bacteria were found on the tooth surfaces. Thus, only a thin plaque could develop. As a clinical consequence, both substances showed retardation of plaque development as reflected by significantly reduced plaque indices.
pH‐cycling of enamel and dentin lesions in the presence of low concentrations of fluoride
Authors: ten Gate J.M. , Buijs M.J. , Damen J.J.M.
Published: October 2007

F‐dentifrice usage causes slightly elevated fluoride levels in saliva. Therefore, the effects of permanent low fluoride concentrations versus daily dentifrice treatments were studied on enamel and dentin lesions in a pH‐cycling model of alternating demineralization and remineralization. Groups received 1) no fluoride treatment. 2) 3 μM (0.06 ppm) F continuously present during re‐ and demineralization or 3) daily 5–min F‐dentifrice treatments. Solutions were analyzed for changes in calcium and fluoride. Cumulative results (10 d) showed that for the non‐fluoride group the dentin lesions increased, while for enamel lesions mineral uptake and loss were balanced. Addition of 3 μM F caused small, non‐significant, enhancement of remineralization (1–7%). while demineralization was significantly inhibited for both tissues (9–23%). The daily dentifrice treatments resulted in a balance between mineral uptake and loss of dentin, due to inhibited demineralization (‐33%) and enhanced remineralization (+ 79%). For enamel, the F‐dentifrice treatments resulted in 43% reduction of demineralization, with no significant effect on remineralization. Fluoride loss from the 3 μM F cycling solutions was significant (up to 50%) and constant during the experimental period. Microradiographic analysis showed remineralization at the lesion front in enamel. In dentin, the lesion depth was increased in all groups, with concomitant mineral deposition in the surface region of the dentifrice group. Results indicate that slightly elevated fluoride levels may be considerably less effective in inhibiting lesion progression in dentin than in enamel, and suggest mineral uptake and loss to occur at similar depths for enamel lesions, while demineralization and remineralization occur at different depths in dentin.
Condensation pressure during amalgam placement in patients
Authors: Lussi Adrian , Brunner Matthias , Portmann Peter , Bürgin Walter
Published: October 2007

The purpose of this study was to investigate the condensation pressure during amalgam placement in patients. Forty‐four practitioners were asked to fill two class 2 cavities in the lower jaw on their patients in their own practice with the aid of a force‐measuring plugger. This device, with semiconductor strain gauges, allowed the dentist to have an identical tactile feedback as with any other plugger. Three different amalgams, with different shapes of alloy particles, were tested. The results showed a maximum condensation pressure of 8.9±2.4 MPa and 5.5±1.8 MPa with a small and a large amalgam plugger, respectively. Average condensation pressures were 3.7±1.3 MPa for the small and 2.2±0.9 MPa for the large instrument. The total working time required to fill a cavity was on average 131 s; the amalgam was effectively condensed for 44 s. No significant differences between amalgams with different shapes of alloy particles, no influence of time of day, and no difference between female and male dentists were found. This study showed that the condensation pressure is lower than often recommended, and that it is not statistically different from the values obtained in a previous laboratory study (1).
Polymerization of composites using pulsed laser
Authors: Tarle Zrinka , Meniga Andrej , Ristie Mira , Sutalo Jozo , Pichler Goran
Published: October 2007

The quality of visible‐light‐cured composites depends on the capability of the light source to properly polymerize the material within a specified exposure lime. In this study, the degree of conversion of different composite materials (hybrid and microfilled) of light and dark shades was compared after illumination by a standard curing unit and pulsed laser (γ=468) respectively. The degree of conversion was measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Results obtained by the analysis of the pulsed laser‐induced polymerization were significantly higher for all the materials and shades observed. All values of the degree of conversion were lower for dark shades of all types of composites, regardless of the photopolymerization technique used. Besides the surface, better polymerization was recorded also at depths of 1.0. 2.0 and 3.0 mm, respectively. These values varied from 59.7%±2.14 to 84.5%±0.33 for pulsed laser (including all depths) caused by the saturation effect induced by high power laser pulses and from 42.7%±1.48 to 74.7%±0.99 for standard polymerization.
Psychophysiological therapy vs. hypnotherapy in the treatment of patients with dental phobia
Authors: Hammarstrand Gunnar , Berggren Ulf , Hakeberg Magnus
Published: October 2007

The aim of this study was to compare two different modes of behaviorally‐oriented therapies for dental fear. The subjects were chosen consecutively from the waiting‐list of a Dental Fears Research and Treatment Clinic. In addition, a control group was selected from patients treated under general anesthesia to compare levels of dental and general fear with the experimental groups. Twenty‐two women, with a mean age of 31.8 yr, were included and randomly assigned to two groups. The median time of avoidance of dental care was 9.5 yr. One group received hypnotherapy (HT) and one group a behavioral treatment based on psychophysiological principles (PP). Both therapies included eight sessions followed by standardized conventional dental test treatments. Pre‐ and posttreatment measures were dental fear, general fear. mood, and patient behavior. Nine patients were not able to conclude the treatment sessions (6 HT and 3 PP); these patients did not differ significantly from the remaining patients before treatment. The PP group reported a statistically significant decrease in dental fear as well as a rise in mood during dental situations, as opposed to the HT group. General fear levels decreased but not significantly. Eleven patients completed conventional dental treatment according to a dentist's behavioral rating scale, indicating that they were relaxed, and no problems occurred during the treatments. These patients were referred to general practitioners within the community dental service. In conclusion, this small size study showed that a majority of the patients, who accomplished the behavioral therapy and the dental test treatments, became less fearful of dental care and were able to manage conventional dental care, including changing dentist.
Child dental fear: cause‐related factors and clinical effects
Authors: Klingberg Gunilla , Berggren Ulf , Carlsson Sven G. , Noren Jorgen G.
Published: October 2007

The relationship between child dental fear and clinical effects, and the importance of some etiological factors related to the development of dental fear in children, were studied in 3,204 urban Swedish children aged 4 to 6 and 9 to 11 yr. Information concerning child dental fear (as measured by the Dental Subscale of Children's Fear Survey Schedule), general fears, parental dental fear, parents' employment and native language was obtained through questionnaires. Data regarding dental health, behavior management problems (BMP) and modes of dental treatment were compiled from dental records. The results showed that child dental fear was associated with missing appointments and dental caries. A proportion of 27% of the children with BMP were dentally fearful, while 61% of the children with dental fear reacted with BMP. A model for stepwise regression analysis showed that general fears, maternal dental fear, and age were important etiological factors in the development of dental fear in children.
Effect of phenytoin on interleukin‐1β production in human gingival fibroblasts challenged to tumor necrosis factor αin vitro
Authors: Brunius Gustaf , Yucel‐Lindberg Tülay , Shinoda Keiji , Modéer Thomas
Published: October 2007

Effects and interaction of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and the antiepileptic drug phenytoin (PHT) on interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) production as well as on prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) formation were studied in gingival fibroblasts in vitro. TNFα, in contrast to PHT, dose‐dependently stimulated the production of cell‐associated IL‐1β. The stimulatory effect of TNFα on IL‐1β production was accompanied by enhanced PGE2 formation. When PHT and TNFα were added simultaneously, the drug potentiated the stimulatory effect of TNFα on both IL‐Iβ production and PGE2 formation. The major PHT metabolite, p‐HPPH, did not affect IL‐1β production, either alone or in combination with TNFα. The production of IL‐1β induced by TNFα and the combination of TNFα and PHT was further enhanced in the presence of the prostaglandin endoperoxide (PGH) synthase inhibitors, indomethacin and flurbiprofen. The PHT‐mediated enhancement of TNFα‐induced IL‐1β production and PGE2 formation in gingival fibroblasts may be an important link in the pathogenesis of gingival overgrowth induced by PHT.
The human vomeronasal organ: prenatal developmental stages and distribution of luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone
Authors: Kjær Inger , Hansen Birgit Fischer
Published: October 2007

The purpose of this study was to describe in 49 normal human prenatal specimens. 15–156 mm crown‐rump length (CRL), the histomorphological development of the bilateral vomeronasal organ localized in the mucosa of the nasal septum. In addition, immunohistochemical localization of luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) was undertaken. The material was classified into five developmental stages (NAS I/V), based on the morphology of the nasal cavity. The vomeronasal organ was visible in stages NAS II, III and IV, corresponding to 21–102 mm CRL. Positive immunohistochemical reaction for LHRH neurons was pronounced in the vomeronasal organ in NAS II and III. corresponding approximately to fetal ages 8–12 gestational weeks (21‐51 mm CRL). The study demonstrates in normal human prenatal material that LHRH can be recorded in the bilateral vomeronasal organs during approximately 4 weeks of intrauterine life.
Taurodontism in twins with cleft lip and/or palate
Authors: Laatikainen Tuula , Ranta Reijo
Published: October 2007

The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of taurodontism of the first and second permanent molars in twins discordant or concordant for clefts, the frequency for each type of cleft in twins, and the concordance–discordance ratio in mono‐ and dizygotic twins. Thirty‐nine pairs of twins (13 monozygotic, 26 dizygotic) between the ages of 7 and 23 yrs were investigated. Taurodontism and hypodontia were determined from orthopantomograms of the dentition. Of the 39 pairs of twins investigated. 16 (41%) had taurodontism, equally in mono‐ and dizygotic pairs. The highest frequency of the trait was noted in subjects with isolated cleft palate and the lowest in cleft lip subjects. Four of 13 monozygotic pairs with taurodontism were concordant for the trait, as were 9 of 12 dizygotic pairs. Taurodontism was symmetric in 91% of the affected molar pairs. Concomitant taurodontism and hypodontia was observed in 8 of 16 taurodontic twin pairs. We conclude that the etiology of clefting in our group of twins seems to have an effect on the frequency of taurodontism. A high concordance for taurodontism and a high symmetry of the trait may indicate a strong genetic etiology of taurodontism.
Nuclear DNA fragmentation during postnatal tooth development of mouse and hamster and during dentin repair in the rat
Authors: Bronckers A. L. J. J. , Lyaruu D. M. , Goei W. , Litz M. , Luo G. , Karsenty G. , Wöltgens J. H. M. , D'Souza R. N.
Published: October 2007

The TUNEL (transferase‐mediated. dUTP‐biotin nick end labeling) method for in situ labeling of DNA strands was utilized to localize DNA fragmentation in cells involved in tooth formation in the neonatal mouse and hamster. Positive reactions for the presence of DNA fragments were obtained in some epithelial cells of the cervical loop region of incisors, late secretory, transitional and early maturation stage ameloblasts, stratum intermedium cells and in shortened ameloblasts just before eruption. Also, cells of the periodontal ligament of the continuously erupting incisors stained positive shortly before eruption. Odontoblasts were negative but became strongly positive during the formation of physiological osteodentin at the tip of developing incisors. Osteodentin matrix and the surfaces of unerupted enamel and cementum just prior to eruption stained for DNA fragments as well. DNA fragmentation could be elicited in odontoblasts and underlying pulpal tissues of mature erupted molars after mechanical injury to the odontoblast processes during cavity preparation. We conclude that, in rodents. DNA fragmentation and cell death are biological processes which take place in a variety of cells involved in formation of teeth. The TUNEL staining technique is a simple but powerful tool to examine the fate of cells and tissues undergoing either programmed cell death (apoptosis) or fragmentation of nuclear DNA induced by external factors leading to pathological changes.
Raman spectra of human dentin mineral
Authors: Tsuda H. , Ruben J. , Arends J.
Published: October 2007

Human dentin mineral has been investigated by using micro‐Raman spectroscopy. Fluorescence and thermal problems were largely avoided by preparing dentin samples by grinding and ultrasonic agitation in acetone. The Raman spectral features were consistent with those of impure hydroxyapatite containing CO, and HPO4. While spectral differences between enamel and dentin were clearly observable as changes in the bandwidth of the PO43 v−1 band and the intensities of the OH− CO32‐ and HPO42bands, the technique could not detect spectral differences between coronal and root dentin. NaOCl, NaF and APF–gel treatments caused measurable changes in intensities of the bands due to CO2 and HPO4−2; the results were found to be useful for band assignments. After NaOCl treatment, the Raman bands, presumably due to amide and HPO4−2, were lost, but the band intensity of the CO3−2 v, bands increased by 35–60%. This increase coincided with the appearance of a new broad band (250–300 cm−1). The same treatment on enamel caused no increase in the CO32 V, band intensity. This NaOCl–induced carbonate could be removed within 20 h in a 1000 ppm NaF solution. These findings indicate that the carbonate ions induced by the NaOCl treatment are presumably in or on the mineral surface. After 3 min of APF–gel treatment on NaOCl–pretreated dentin, the intensities of the hydroxyapatite phosphate bands dropped by approximately 20%, and newly formed CaF2 and HPO4 bands became observable.
Atypically located paramolar. Report of a rare case
Authors: Dubuk A. Nancy , Selvig Knut A. , Tellefsen Georg , Wikesjo Ulf M. E.
Published: October 2007

A puramolar mesial to the mandibular second molar would be predicted from the atavistic theory on phylogenetic evolution of the human dentition. The actual finding of this feature, however, appears to have been reported only once. A 4 mm long tooth was found mesial to the right mandibular second molar in a 54‐yr‐old Japanese female. The tooth had a ball‐shaped crown, a relatively normal crown/root length ratio, and a tapering root located entirely in the gingival soft tissue.
PCR primers for the amplification of the 16S rRNA gene of oral bacteria and for the specific identification of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Albandar J. M. , Lyngstadaas S. P. , Forbord B.
Published: October 2007

The aim of this study was to develop a PCR reaction specific to Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, which targets a widely conserved gene of this bacterium. Two sets of primers were designed based on published sequences of the 16S rRNA of several microorganisms. The first set amplifies a major part of the 16S small subunit rRNA gene of several strains of bacteria commonly found in the periodontal pocket. This reaction produced a 1306 bp‐long product and served as a positive control. The second set was specific to A. actinomycetemcomitans and produced a 449 bp‐long product. H. tiphniphilus and E. coli yielded positive results with the control primers and negative results with the A. actinomycetemcomitans‐specific primers. DNA‐DNA hybridization was used to validate the identity of the amplified sequences. B. cereus. which is a common contaminator in the laboratory, and human DNA did not generate PCR products in either reaction. The developed primers seem useful for the identification of A. actinomycetemcomitans strains.