Agenesis of one or more teeth is a common finding in both primary and permanent dentition. The most commonly missing tooth in permanent dentition is the third molars, followed by the maxillary lateral incisors or mandibular premolars. Congenitally missing maxillary central incisors are not frequently found. The presence of only one maxillary central incisor is a rare clinical finding called a solitary median maxillary central incisor. This case report describes a 7-year-old female patient who presented with only one central incisor at the midline. Early diagnosis of the condition is essential to rule out other associated problems. ...Read More >>
Patients with non-vital immature teeth present a unique challenge for dentists. Managing such cases to restore function, aesthetics, and biologic harmony with adjacent tissues requires a specially tailored treatment plan that combines endodontic and restorative steps. Apexification using Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is a promising recent approach for such cases. This article presents a case report of MTA apexification with a collagen barrier and custom-made gutta-percha condenser. ...Read More >>
The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of three different polishing systems, namely PoGo (Dentsply), Optrapol (Ivoclar), and Soflex (3M), on the surface roughness of a nanocomposite material (Filtek Z350, 3M) using an Optical Profilometer (Talysurf CLI 1000). The polishing systems used in this study were a one-step polishing system, PoGo with fine diamond particles, and Optrapol, which is a mixture of silicones, and a multi-step polishing system, Soflex, containing disks of different gradations with aluminum oxide particles. The restorative material used in this study was a nanofill composite (Filtek Z350, 3M). A total of 40 samples were fabricated using a stainless steel mold (10mm in diameter and 2mm thick) to standardize the samples. The samples were then covered with a mylar strip and pressed flat against a glass slab to extrude excess material and obtain a flat surface. Except for the mylar strip group, the other groups were wet ground with a 320 grit silicone carbide paper on a metallurgical finishing wheel before using the polishing system. The samples were then subdivided into four groups, each under a different polishing system. These samples were then subjected to surface roughness analysis using a three-dimensional Profilometer (Talysurf CLI 1000). Results showed that Group IV (Soflex) exhibited the lowest surface roughness (Ra), while Group III (Optrapol) showed higher Ra values in the nanocomposite tested. Group I (Mylar strip) showed the least surface roughness value in the nanocomposite used. In conclusion, although the smoothest surface was obtained with a multi-step (Soflex) polishing system, the one-step (Optrapol) polishing produced a clinically acceptable finish within a relatively short polishing time. ...Read More >>
As endodontics advances into new horizons, Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) has emerged as a significant approach. The use of lasers is a new technique for eliminating microorganisms in root canal systems. However, the antibacterial effects of many of these lasers depend on dose-dependent heat generation, which can lead to charring of dentin, ankylosing roots, melting cementum, and causing root resorption and periapical necrosis. The disadvantages can be overcome by the use of PDT, which has recently been employed to target microorganisms in the root canals. Photodynamic therapy utilizes three simple components, namely: light, photosensitizer, and oxygen. The photosensitizer is introduced into the root canal and is activated by light. The sensitizer causes biochemical changes of the oxygen molecules into "reactive oxygen species. ...Read More >>
Lymphangiomas are uncommon congenital hamartomas of the lymphatic system, usually diagnosed in infancy and early childhood. They are commonly located in the head and neck region, with the tongue being the most common intraoral site. The recurrence rate for lymphangiomas of the tongue is extremely high, and they can cause complications such as hemorrhage and obstruction of the upper respiratory airways. We report a case of a 17-year-old male patient with a lymphangioma of the tongue. The histopathology and treatment options are discussed, and the literature is reviewed. ...Read More >>