Showing 143 results for Ph
Narges Farhad Mollashahi, Eshagh Ali Saberi, Behnam Rousta, Seyed Mohammad Javad Aslani, Farnaz Faramarzian,
Volume 36, Issue 0 (5-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Guided endodontics is a new technique that is now evolving. It is used in many treatments, especially in access cavity preparation and locating root canals in teeth with pulp canal obliteration (PCO), microsurgical endodontics, and fiber post removal in retreatments. In addition, this technique is independent of operator experience, requires less treatment time for the patient, and is more precise and safer than conventional endodontics. This technique involves the use of cone beam computed tomography imaging (CBCT), tooth surface scanning, and special software to provide guidance for performing endodontic treatment in a fast, safe, and minimally invasive manner. This review article aims to introduce guided endodontics and to describe its technique, advantages, and limitations.
Mohammad Fazeli, Masomeh Ahmadi, Parisa Asadollahi, Hossein Seyedkhani, Elahe Karimi, Liela Ghitani, Nahid Mahdian, Dr Hossein Kazemian,
Volume 36, Issue 0 (5-2023)
Abstract
| Background and Aims: Root canal treatment failures are often attributed to incomplete removal of bacteria, particularly Enterococcus faecalis. While, chlorhexidine and sodium hypochlorite serve as conventional treatments. herbal medicine has been today considered as an alternative to synthetic medicine due to its safety. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to compare the antibactrial effect of Scrophularia Striata extract with chlorhexidine and sodium hypochlorite on Enterococcus Faecalis in the tooth root canal.
Materials and Methods: In this study, sixty extracted teeth were examined. Following the infection of dental canals with Enterococcus faecalis, materials were tested in 3 groups: 1) chlorhexidine 2% (18 teeth), 2) sodium hypochlorite 2.5% (18 teeth), and 3) Scrophularia striata (at the concentration obtained from MIC, 20%; 18 teeth). Additionally, the positive control and negative control were included (3 teeth in each group). Samples were then cultured on bile esculin agar. After 72 hours, black colonies were eaxamined. Chi-squared test was used to analyze the results.
Results: Enterococcus faecalis bacteria grew in 6, 8, and 17 out of the 18 teeth within the sodium hypochlorite, chlorhexidine, and Scrophularia striata extract groups, respectively. Consequently, the bactericidal effects for sodium hypochlorite, chlorhexidine, and Scrophularia striata extract were 66.6%, 55.5%, and 5.55%, respectively. |
Conclusion: The antibacterial effect of the Scrophularia striata extract was significantly lower than chlorhexidine and sodium hypochlorite on Enterococcus faecalis in dental canals viewed as a suitable replacement to the already in use synthetic therapeutic irrigants.
Mohammad Mahdi Yaghooti Khorasani, Esmaiil Shah-Hosseinloo,
Volume 37, Issue 0 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aims: To be successful in root canal therapy, the dentists must be aware of the possible variation in the root canal and should know not only the natural anatomy of the pulp, but also a variety of possible morphologies. Frst of all, the dentists should be familiar with the possible anatomy of the root canal and then with the extraction of organic tissue from pulp chamber and root canal, increasing the chances of treatment success. Therefore, in this study, we decided to investigate the internal anatomy of root canals in the maxillary permanent molar teeth in Khoy city.
Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, 100 extracted human molars in Khoy city in West Azerbaijan province were collected. In all teeth, the access cavities were prepared, then they were decalcified and colored with India ink and evaluated by clearing technique. Data were collected based on Vertucci's classification which entered into SPSS23 software. The descriptive statistics in the form of numbers and percentages in tables and graphs were used to analyze the data.
Results: The most common type observed in the mesiobuccal root of the first molars was type IV by 44%, in distobuccal root was type I by 92%, and in palatal root was type I by 94%. Also, in the mesiobuccal root of the second molars, the most common type was type I by 70%, in distobuccal root was type I by 94%, and in palatal root was type I by 96%.
Conclusion: The mesiobuccal root of the first molar had the most variation in the internal anatomy. Also, the most common type of Vertucci in the mesiobuccal root of first molar was type IV and in the other roots of the first and second molar teeth was type I. |
Mehdi Rahjoo, Bahareh Tahani,
Volume 37, Issue 0 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aims: One of the most important consequences of the rapid growth of urbanization has been the unequal distribution of urban service specially health care services and escalation of social inequality of citizens. Therefore, this study was aimed to analyze the spatial distribution of dental centers in Isfahan from the perspective of spatial equity.
Materials and Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 in Isfahan city. The required data including the population of the fifteen districts of Isfahan city, the data of the geographic municipal areas and the dental centers of Isfahan city were put into Excell. The population data were gathered from the statistical yearbook of population and housing. The dentists’ data were gathered from the Medical Council. Addresses of the dental centers were fed into the Google earth and were found on the traffic map of Isfahan. Using the Arc GIS 10.8 software and based on the Geographic Information System concepts, the spatial justice was analyzed. Moran's autocorrelation index was used to determine the distribution pattern (cluster, scattered, random). Hot spot analysis and nearest neighbor distance (centers in this radius would have more access) were used. Access ratios were analyzed using the ratio of population to the distance of each parcel to the dental centers and then were categorized as privileged to, semi and unprivileged.
Results: Z-score of Moran test was more than the expected score of 2.58 at 0.01 level of significant, indicating the cluster pattern of dental settings distribution in Isfahan. Moran's index (0.076) was much more than the expected equity coefficient (-0.000055), indicating again the cluster pattern of distribution which was not favorable in terms of spatial justice. The nearest neighbor distance analysis indicated that by moving from the center of the city to the outskirts of the city, access to dental centers decreased. Access analysis determined that privilege areas of the city were located mostly in central municipal areas and about 60% of these areas were limited to three municipal regions. Also, about 63% of the city area were categorized as unprivileged.
Conclusion: Distribution of dental centers in the city of Isfahan is not an equal distribution and the dental settings are mostly concentrated in the central areas of the city, not necessarily in high populated areas. There, this pattern necessitates the proper planning to establish dental settings in deprived and high-populated parts of the city.
Ahmadreza Mohammadi, Malihe Safari, Maneli Houshyar, Maryam Mohebiniya,
Volume 37, Issue 0 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Idiopathic osteosclerosis is an asymptomatic local growth of cortical bone and is discovered incidentally on panoramic radiographs. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis and its radiographic features in panoramic images of patients referred to the Department of Maxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Arak University of Medical Sciences (Iran) in 2022-2023.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 460 panoramic images from the radiology department of Arak Faculty of Dentistry were randomly selected and analyzed. The demographic information of patients, frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis, location, and also its relationship with adjacent teeth in terms of proximity to lamina dura and periodontal ligament and radiographic features in terms of size and morphology were evaluated. The data were analyzed using the SPSS24 software.
Results: Panoramic images of 460 patients (266 men and 194 women) with an average age of 38.12 (11.75) years were evaluated. The frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis was 6.1% (28 images). 92.9% of the lesions were in the lower jaw and 46.4% of them were near the premolar teeth. In 39.3% of the cases, the lesion was adjacent to the periodontal ligament and laminadora of the tooth. In 3.6% of the cases, it was associated with a small displacement of the adjacent tooth, and 17.9% was associated with tooth root resorption. According to the results, there was no correlation between the incidence of this lesion with age and gender (P>0.05).
Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, the frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis in the patients referred to Arak dental school was reported as 6.1%. Most of these lesions were observed in the back of the lower jaw and thus, it is important to be able to distinguish this lesion from the radiopaque lesions of the jaw which need treatment.
Mohaddeseh Sadat Naghibi, Hamed Shahmir, Sajjad Omidian,
Volume 37, Issue 0 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aims: The present investigation was conducted on the evaluation of the microstructure, phase transformation behavior, mechanical properties, and fatigue resistance of nickel-titanium rotary endodontic files. The main purpose of this investigation was to find the effect of microstructural parameters on the performance of these files.
Materials and Methods: Three rotary tools with brand names Denco, Edgeendo, and Eighteeth were studied. To evaluate the microstructure and transformation behavior of tools, metallography, X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry methods were used. The bending test was used to check the behavior of superelasticity and memory and the microhardness test was used to evaluate the hardness of the samples. Also, cyclic fatigue behavior in a mold containing a simulated tooth canal was investigated and calculated by parametric statistical analysis. The fracture surface of the samples was also studied by scanning electron microscope.
Results: Analyses revealed the existence of a high volume fraction of R phase in the microstructure of the Edgeendo file. Rotary files with higher volume fraction of martensitic phase showed higher shape memory effect and fatigue resistance. Denco and Edgeendo rotary files with better surface quality and high volume fraction of martensitic phases in the microstructure showed better fatigue resistance compared with the Eighteeth file. In all the results, the P-value was less than 0.05.
Conclusion: Multiphase microstructure containing austenite and martensite together with appropriate phase transformation and hardness of the alloy have key roles on functional properties of rotary files. This study provides dentists with a deeper understanding of the fatigue behavior and mechanical properties of these files, enabling them to make more informed decisions in choosing the appropriate instruments for endodontic treatment.
Robab Farhang, Mehrnoosh Kaviani, Maedeh Aminian, Aziz Kamran, Mahdi Fathi, Zahra Heidarpour,
Volume 38, Issue 0 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aims: The foundations of a successful root canal treatment are adequate adaptation of the gutta-percha to the canal wall and the establishment of an impermeable apical seal. Despite the common use of M3 and Neoniti rotary files by dentists, no study has been conducted to examine the compliance of gutta-percha in curved canals prepared with M3 and Neoniti files using CBCT. The present study was designed and compiled with the aim of investigating the adaptation of gutta-percha in curved canals prepared with M3 and Neoniti files by CBCT.
Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled laboratory study was conducted ex vivo on 30 permanent human first molar teeth. The teeth were randomly divided into two groups (the first group with M3 and the second group with neoniti), after finding and fixing the appropriate canal path with the examined rotary files. All groups were filled with Single Cone method using F2 gutta-percha and AH26 sealer. Then, the gutta adaptation was assessed using clinical criteria (visual and radiographic) and after the specimens were evaluated using CBCT. All the images obtained from CBCT were converted into the JPEG format and then entered into image J software. The gap between the canal walls and gutta was measured in each canal, and the obtained data were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U test.
Results: The results showed that the average and standard deviation of gap in M3 files (0.181 ± 0.089) was higher than that of Neoniti file (0.173 ± 0.033). However, no significant difference in the gutta-percha adaptation in curved canals prepared between the M3 and Neoniti files was observed (P>0.05).
Conclusion: Considering the acceptable adaptation of gutta-percha in canals prepared with M3 and Neoniti files, the use of these two files is recommended in curved canals.
Nima Biuki, Mohammad Aghaali, Allahyar Jahangir, Ali Saleh, Mahboubeh Pourabdollahi, Aida Mehdipour,
Volume 38, Issue 0 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Third molar teeth extraction is one of the common treatments procedure in dentistry. The proximity of mandibular third molar teeth to the inferior alveolar nerve canal may make the surgery challenging and cause adverse complications. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of diagnostic and evaluation of panoramic radiography findings in two classification methods (Rood-Shehab and Tanaka) according to CBCT in mandibular third molar extraction surgery.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 65 patients of a private radiology clinic in Qom who had simultaneous panoramic and CBCT radiography. Panoramic and CBCT radiographs were imported into Scanora and Ondemand softwares, respectively. The relation of the mandibular third molar with the inferior alveolar nerve was evaluated according to Tanaka's classification and Rood-Shehab radiographic signs and compared with CBCT radiographs. Finally, the obtained data were analyzed by chi-square test, ROC curve and SPSS software version 24. The significant level was considered at P<0.05.
Results: Out of 65 samples, 23.1% were men and 76.9% were women. The mean age of participants was 26.9±8.77. There was a significant relation between the Tanaka's classification of panoramic radiographs and proximity to the nerve in CBCT radiographs (P=0.011). This relationship was significant when the number of radiographic signs of the Rood-Shehab classification increased (P=0.044). Root darkening and diversion of mandibular nerve canal signs of Rood-Shehab classification showed more diagnostic accuracy in the nerve canal contact determination than that of other signs.
Conclusion: The probability of contact of third molar root with the inferior alveolar nerve canal increases with increasing in the number of Rood-Shehab radiographic signs. The root darkening sign was more accurate and followed by mandibular canal diversion sign. Tanaka’s classification can be used in differentiating cases without contact to the nerve canal.
Mobina Rahmani, Raheleh Ghaffari, Ebrahim Mohammad Ali Nasab Firouzjah,
Volume 38, Issue 0 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Musculoskeletal disorders are the most common and costly occupational injuries, and dentists are more prone to musculoskeletal problems than other medical professionals. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a course of corrective exercises on the alignment of the thoracic spine and balance in female dentists with increased kyphosis.
Materials and Methods: This research was a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test/post-test design, conducted in the field. Thirty female dentists from Amol and Babol cities (Iran) with increased kyphosis were selected using purposive sampling. The patients were randomly assigned into two groups: control (n=15) and intervention (n=15). In the pre-test, the thoracic curvature angle, static balance, and dynamic balance were assessed using a flexible ruler, the stork balance test, and the Y balance dynamic test, respectively. Then, the intervention group were assigned to perform the exercises for six weeks, while the control group only engaged in daily activities. After completing the exercises, the post-test was conducted. Paired t-tests and analysis of covariance were used to compare intra-group and inter-group differences.
Results: The statistical analysis showed a significant difference between the two groups in the thoracic curvature angle (P=0.001), static balance (P=0.001), and dynamic balance (P=0.001). The intervention group demonstrated significant improvement in these parameters compared to the control group.
Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, it is recommended that corrective exercises under the supervision of a specialist be included in the weekly exercise program of female dentists with increased kyphosis.
Mohammad Rahimi, Pooya Eini,
Volume 38, Issue 0 (4-2025)
Abstract
This article presents a challenging case of a 64-year-old man with episodic fever, urticarial rash, and arthralgia, prompting a detailed diagnostic process. Despite initial considerations of adult-onset Still's disease, the atypical symptoms led to further investigations, revealing a periapical abscess through a dental examination. The patient's symptoms significantly improved following dental intervention, challenging the initial diagnostic inclination towards a rheumatological disorder. This case underscores the importance of thorough physical examinations and interdisciplinary collaboration in reaching accurate diagnoses. The ultimate diagnosis of systemic presentation due to an occult dental abscess, highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to medical evaluations, considering various clinical aspects and avoiding diagnostics biases. This case study serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of medical diagnostics and the continued significance of holistic patient assessments and physical examination as valuable practicing skills.
Hadi Kalani, Elham Abbasi,
Volume 38, Issue 0 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Posterior crossbite is a common malocclusion disorder in the primary dentition that affects masticatory function. Therefore, early detection and treatment of crossbite teeth is essential to prevent further dental complications and guarantee proper jaw development. This study investigated a reasonable and computationally efficient diagnostic system for detecting characteristics between children with and without unilateral posterior crossbite in the primary dentition using the surface electromyography (sEMG) activity of masticatory muscles.
Materials and Methods: The present study was an experimental in vitro study that used sEMG signals and support vector machine (SVM) to develop artificial intelligence systems capable of decoding muscle activity for diagnosing the crossbite. The core idea of SVM is to find the optimal separating hyperplane that maximizes the margin between two classes (presence or absence of crossbite disease) in the sEMG signal. In this study, 40 children (4 to 6 years old) were selected and divided into unilateral posterior crossbite (UPCB) (n=20) and normal occlusion (n=20) groups. The sEMG activity of the bilateral masticatory muscles was recorded during two 20-s gum-chewing sequences. Then, the time domain and frequency domain features had been obtained. In this study, eighteen time domain features and nine frequency domain features were employed. Finally, these features were used as inputs to the SVM method for data classification and crossbite disease diagnosis. In this paper, four kernel functions of SVM including linear, 2nd order polynomial, 3rd order polynomial and radial basis function were considered.
Results: Based on the obtained results, the crossbite disease had a significant effect on the EMG signals. The results demonstrated that this disease affected the amplitude of the signal more than the frequency. Therefore, using the time features of EMG signals, the SVM method was able to provide a more accurate prediction of crossbite disease. The findings indicated that the mean absolute value feature achieved a 95% accuracy in predicting posterior crossbite. Finally, the results revealed that the RBF method could exhibit superior performance.
Conclusion: The proposed method can be utilized in clinical applications for diagnoses of unilateral posterior crossbite. The findings of the study showed an influence of crossbite on the electrical activity of the temporal and masseter muscles. Therefore, the crossbite problem can be reasonably diagnosed by an appropriate learning strategy using EMG signals.
Yadegar Hussein Sharifi, Hajar Shekarchizadeh, Hajar Attarzadeh, Sepehr Miramirkhani,
Volume 38, Issue 0 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Orphaned children are one of vulnerable groups in society. The aim of this study was to compare oral health, treatment needs, and oral health behaviors of orphaned children under the protection of welfare organization with the guardian children.
Materials and Methods: In this historical cohort study, all 7–12-year-old children under the protection of welfare organization in Isfahan were compared with their classmates’ counterparts in 2019. Clinical examination recorded DMFT/dmft, plaque index, and treatment needs. Children were asked about their oral health behaviors including the frequency of tooth brushing, flossing, fluoride toothpaste, and snacking. Mann-Witney U test, Chi-Squared test, and Fisher's exact test served for analysis (P<0.05).
Results: The mean score of dmft and DMFT among orphaned children were 3.64±2.54 and 2.93±2.54, respectively, which showed no significant differences with comparison group (P>0.05). No significant difference revealed between the two groups in terms of mean number of deciduous teeth in need of treatment (P=0.175). Only the mean number of permanent teeth requiring treatment was higher in orphaned children (2.46) than that of the comparison group (1.28) (P<0.049). Also, the percentage of children with poor plaque index was higher in orphaned children (P=0.009). There was no significant difference between two groups regarding oral health behaviors (P>0.05).
Conclusion: No significant difference existed between orphaned children and their classmates’ counterparts in terms of dental caries index and oral health behaviors. Only plaque index and the number of permanent teeth requiring treatment was higher in orphaned children. Educational interventions are recommended to promote oral hygiene and to facilitate the orphaned children’s access to dental treatment.
Mitra Montazerlotf, Mehrdad Mehrdad Hosseini Shakib, Reza Radfar, Mina Khayamzadeh,
Volume 38, Issue 0 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Dental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic oral diseases worldwide. Timely and accurate diagnosis of dental caries plays a crucial role in preventing lesion progression and reducing complications. This study aimed to systematically review the studies on dental caries detection using machine learning algorithms applied to periapical radiographs.
Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, and Google Scholar databases up to the end of 2024. Inclusion criteria comprised studies using machine learning algorithms for detecting dental caries in periapical or intraoral radiographs. The quality of studies was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool.
Results: From 825 initial articles, 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. All studies used Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with various architectures including ResNet, VGG, Inception, DenseNet, and YOLO. ResNet-based models and their hybrid variants showed the best performance with diagnostic accuracy ranging from 82% to 98%. Comparison with human experts in 6 studies revealed that deep learning algorithms demonstrated similar or superior performance.
Conclusion: From the results, deep learning especially convolutional neural networks, had significant potential for improving dental caries detection in periapical radiographs. However, challenges such as limited high-quality training data and generalizability issues need further investigation.
Farzam Shiri, ,
Volume 39, Issue 0 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Pharmacies can serve as an appropriate setting for the provision of oral health care, including preventive services, early detection, and referrals. The present study aimed to assess the awareness, performance and oral health behaviors as well as self-perceived oral health among pharmacists and pharmacy staff in Isfahan.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 using a random sampling method across pharmacies in Isfahan. In total, 176 pharmacists and pharmacy staff completed a standard self-administered questionnaire in person, regarding their awareness, performance, and behaviors related to oral health, as well as their self- perceived oral health. Data were analyzed using Chi-square test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Spearman correlation coefficient in SPSS software version 27 (P<0.05).
Results: Oral health knowledge was rated as poor in 34 individuals (19.3%), moderate in 89 (50.6%), and good in 53 (30.1%). Pharmacists’ knowledge score was significantly higher than that of other pharmacy staff (P=0.002). The most commonly reported service provided to clients by participants was offering analgesics for pain relief (61.9%). While, less than half of the participants reported providing information on oral hygiene (36.9%) or referring clients to a dentist (40.9%). Oral health behaviors including brushing teeth at least twice a day (80.4%), regular use of fluoride toothpaste (97.2%), visiting a dentist during the past year (55.1%), and non smoking (67.0%) were favorable among most participants. However, flossing (50.6%) and frequent snacking (65.3%) were unfavorable in majority of individuals.
Conclusion: Considering the moderate level of oral health knowledge and the presence of some unfavorable behaviors such as insufficient use of dental floss and frequent snacking, it is recommended to implement educational programs to improve knowledge and promote positive oral health behaviors
Bita Kheiri, Mona Fazel Ghaziani,
Volume 39, Issue 0 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Aims: In recent years, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly common in dentistry because it facilitates the process of diagnosis and clinical decision-making. It is necessary for dentists to be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of artificial intelligence before implementing it. The present study aimed to comprehensively review the various applications of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis of dental diseases along with its challenges and disadvantages.
Materials and Methods: For this review article, a complete search was conducted on the PubMed and Google Scholar databases and studies published in recent years as well as studies published in 2024 were collected using the keywords "artificial intelligence," "dentistry," "diagnosis." Finally, the relevant articles were selected and evaluated, focusing on artificial intelligence in dentistry and the diagnosis of dental diseases.
Results: Advances in artificial intelligence in dental imaging, particularly through machine learning (ML) and artificial neural networks (ANN), have dramatically transformed the way dental disease is diagnosed. These technologies help dentists to analyze complex information and produce more accurate results by using algorithms that allow systems to learn and respond to data. The most recent development in this area is deep learning (DL), which uses multiple layers of neural networks to process unlabeled data and predict outcomes. These techniques are used in various fields such as diagnostic imaging, periodontology, dental caries detection, and osteoporosis screening, which help to improve the quality of dental services. Despite the benefits of AI in clinical dentistry, three controversial challenges remain and need to be addressed: ease of use, return on investment, and evidence of performance, or reliability.
Conclusion: Based on the results, the most important advantage of AI is the diagnosis of dental diseases. AI has great potential to reduce the pressure on health systems by automating routine tasks and improving patient care. However, this technology can never replace human expertise and must be guided by ethical principles. Ultimately, AI is recognized as a valuable tool in dentistry and the final decision-making always remains with the dentist.
Aydin Alipour, Ehsan Moudi, Seyedali Seyedmajidi, Meisam Moradi, Reza Faraji,
Volume 39, Issue 0 (3-2026)
Abstract
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Background and Aims: Root resorption of teeth adjacent to impacted canines, although relatively uncommon, is a potentially harmful condition that may lead to tooth loss. Early diagnosis and the use of accurate imaging techniques play a crucial role in preventing from root resorption complications. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of root resorption in teeth adjacent to impacted maxillary canines using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images.
Materials and Methods: In this retrospective observational-analytical study, 60 CBCT images of patients with impacted maxillary canines (15 bilateral case and 45 unilateral cases) were examined using a convenience sampling method among those referred to oral and maxillofacial radiology clinics in northern Iran, Babol, in 2023. Variables such as age, gender, position and direction of canine eruption, presence of root resorption in adjacent teeth, type of affected tooth, severity, and location of resorption were evaluated. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test in SPSS software at a significance level of 0.05.
Results: Among the studied CBCT (66.7% female; 70% over 18 years of age), 75 cases of impaction (41 cases on the right and 34 cases on the left) were observed. Root resorption in the teeth adjacent to the impacted maxillary canines was observed in only 7 patients (11.7%). All resorptions were mild and observed in the lateral incisors. In terms of vertical position, 85.7% of the cases occurred in the middle third of the root. There was no statistically significant association between root resorption and gender, age, or the position or direction of canine eruption (P>0.05).
Conclusion: Given the potential for root resorption in lateral incisors and in the middle third of the root, it is recommended that oral and maxillofacial surgeons and orthodontists perform a thorough initial evaluation of the canine’s position and adjacent teeth using CBCT imaging prior to treatment to prevent possible complications.
Amineh Oljash, Reza Faraji, Farida Abesi, Maysam Mirzaie, Hoda Shirafkan,
Volume 39, Issue 0 (3-2026)
Abstract
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Background and Aims: Ponticulus posticus is a bony anomaly in the atlas vertebra that may have significant clinical implications, particularly when extreme head movements are required during treatment. The present study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of ponticulus posticus in different types of skeletal malocclusions in the population from northern Iran.
Materials and Methods: In this observational-analytical study, 246 lateral cephalometric radiographs of eligible individuals referred to two oral and maxillofacial radiology centers in Babol, northern Iran, in 2021, were included using convenience sampling and evaluated. Skeletal classification was determined using the ANB angle and Wits analysis. The presence of ponticulus posticus was evaluated across different skeletal classes, genders, and age groups. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test in SPSS software with a significance level set at 0.05.
Results: Among the total sample, ponticulus posticus was observed in 104 cases (42.3%), of which 62 cases (25.2%) were of the partial type and 42 cases (17.1%) were of the complete type. The prevalence of this anomaly was significantly higher in males than in females (P<0.001). However, there was no statistically significant association between the presence of ponticulus posticus and skeletal class (P=0.222) or age group (P=0.483).
Conclusion: The findings of the present study indicated that ponticulus posticus was a relatively common anomaly, with a higher prevalence in males, and therefore should be taken into consideration. However, this anomaly neither appear to be a result of age-related calcification, nor can be used as a predictive indicator for determining skeletal class type.
Amin Shahsavar Mistani, Alireza Babaei Darzi, Mohammad Taghipour, Seyedali Seyedmajidi, Meisam Moradi,
Volume 39, Issue 0 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common occupational health problems faced by dentists. Given their impact on dentists’ health and performance, the present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of MSDs among general and specialist dentists practicing in Babol, Iran.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the standardized Nordic questionnaire, consisting of general and specific sections, was distributed in person among dentists practicing in Babol, based on data obtained from the local Medical Council. Distribution was carried out after a telephone invitation and confirmation of willingness to participate. The questionnaire included items regarding pain and discomfort in different body regions such as the neck, shoulders, and lower back. The frequency of participants with MSDs was assessed based on gender, right/left handedness, specialty, playing sports, and participating in a specific sport. The mean age, weight, height, body mass index, weekly working hours, and work experience of dentists with and without MSDs were also compared. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22, employing independent t-tests, Chi-square tests, and Fisher’s exact test, with a significance level set at 0.05.
Results: Of the 182 dentists approached, 17 declined participation and 5 met the exclusion criteria. A total of 160 dentists (mean work experience: 15.65 ±9.26 years) were included in the study; of these, 100 (62.5%) were male, 95 (59.4%) were general practitioners, and 65 (40.6%) were specialists. The overall prevalence of MSDs in this population was reported to be 90%. The most commonly affected region was the neck (76.4%), while the least affected was the ankle (3%). A statistically significant association was found between engaging in a specific type of regular physical activity and a reduced incidence of MSDs (P<0.001). No significant associations were observed with other variables such as gender, handedness, specialty, or field of specialization (P>0.05). Furthermore, no significant differences were found in the mean height, weight, body mass index, weekly working hours, or years of experience between dentists with and without MSDs (P>0.05).
Conclusion: Musculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent among dentists in Babol. Given this high prevalence, the development and implementation of educational programs on ergonomics, along with recommendations for targeted physical activity appear to be essential.
Marjan Babadi Borujeni, Parisa Ilkhanizadeh, Hiva Ebrahimi,
Volume 39, Issue 0 (3-2026)
Abstract
Mohammadreza Rahimi Ghajour, Babak Akbari,
Volume 39, Issue 0 (3-2026)
Abstract
This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the potential of plant-derived polyphenols in restorative and preventive dentistry. As natural bioactive compounds such as polyphenols reshape the oral microbial ecology by attenuating virulence, inhibiting quorum-sensing communication, disrupting extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) formation, and reducing acidogenicity within dental biofilms. Beyond their antimicrobial effects, polyphenols can protect host tissues, namely, enamel, dentin, and gingiva, by cross-linking collagen fibrils, suppressing matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, and modulating inflammatory pathways. Experimental, in situ, and clinical evidence consistently demonstrated improved bond durability at the dentin–resin interface. The most compelling data support the use of primers containing proanthocyanidins, quercetin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and resveratrol. In preventive applications, catechin-based varnishes have demonstrated remineralization effects comparable to those of fluoride varnishes. Conversely, pomegranate extract–enriched mouthrinses, in the presence of fluoride, could enhance both anti-demineralization and antibiofilm activity. In the context of implants and dental prostheses, the polyphenol-functionalized coatings, particularly those based on tannic or caffeic acid, would reduce biofilm formation and provide corrosion resistance for metallic surfaces. Nevertheless, several formulation challenges remain, including rapid oxidation, limited solubility, and discoloration, all of which require careful management. Strategies such as dose optimization, solvent selection, covalent stabilization, and microencapsulation are recommended to overcome these limitations. For broader and more effective clinical translation, standardization of multispecies laboratory models and harmonization of clinical endpoints are essential. Furthermore, future longitudinal trials are needed to bridge the gap between laboratory findings and clinical performance. Ultimately, with the design of innovative delivery systems and long-term monitoring of parameters such as restoration survival, secondary caries, periodontal health, and color stability, polyphenols hold promise to define a new generation of antibacterial, biocompatible, and aesthetically stable dental materials.
