A Diagnostic Insight of Dental Pulp Testing Methods in Pediatric Dentistry

Optimal needle characteristics for classical inferior alveolar nerve block anesthesia: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Although frequently applied, inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) is associated with high rate of complications, beside its unpredictable success; partly due to improper needle choice. Evidence of the ideal needle contradicts in literature. Therefore, this review aims to assess the effect of needle characteristics on the outcomes of IANB.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic search was performed on MedLine via Pubmed, Cochrane Library, LILACS, Science Open, EBSCOhost, Scopus, Egyptian Knowledge Bank (EKB), and Google scholar; beside searching grey literature and hand searching. The review included randomized controlled trials comparing needles of difference in any of the characteristics (gauge, length, bevel, alloy) used for IANB regarding their effects on pain, success of anesthesia and aspiration. The authors ran the search, selected the eligible studies, assessed the risk of bias using RoB 1 and extracted the data of the finally included studies. All the steps were performed in duplicates.

RESULTS

The search yielded a total of 2,812 records. After de-duplication and excluding ineligible studies by title and abstract then by full text, the review included nine eligible studies. The compared needle interventions included: gauges (23G, 24G, 25G, 26G, 27G and 30G), lengths (12 mm, 25 mm, 32 mm, 35 mm, 42 mm), and internal diameters (0.265 mm, 0.215 mm, 0.3 mm and 0.4 mm). All studies had high risk of bias, adopted different assessment methods for the outcomes, and included participants with differences in baseline characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

The level of the available evidence introduced by primary studies hinder concluding the optimal needle characteristics; keeping the research question unanswered. However, within the limitations of the heterogenous studies, available data favors thinner needles for less pain during needle insertion; otherwise, data of the other outcomes was inconclusive.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Thinner needles are favored for less pain during insertion; but standardized future studies are essentially needed for solid conclusions. A detailed standard protocol is, therefore, proposed.

Association between lesion depth and placement technique with failures requiring extraction of preformed metal crowns in primary molars. A retrospective study

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the factors associated with failure requiring extraction after placement of preformed metal crowns (PMCs) in primary molars. Radiographic caries depth at baseline (initial/moderate and severe) and placement technique (Conventional and Hall technique) and other patient-related variables were analysed.

METHODS

Clinical and radiographic records from children aged 2-10 years who had at least one primary molar treated with PMCs between 2011 and 2019 were evaluated. Chi-square test, Fisher exact tests and logistic regression analysis (α = 5%) were performed to verify the relationship between the primary outcome and categorical variables (caries depth, restorative teachnique, jaw, tooth type and gender).

RESULTS

A total of 244 teeth treated in 165 children were included in the analysis. A total of 18 failures were observed (7.4%), of which 17 were in deep caries lesions and in which 15 had the PMC placed according to the conventional technique. Both caries lesion depth and restorative technique were associated with treatment failure (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Taking into account the limitations of this retrospective study, treatment failures requiring extraction occurred more often in deep caries lesions when treated with preformed metal crowns (PMCs) following the conventional technique when compared to the Hall Technique.

Evaluation of pulpal blood flow during orthodontic space closure: Prospective clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is a biological process that can affect the vascularization of the dental pulp. The forces exerted on the teeth may increase periapical pressure that could compress the arterioles, which in turn affects pulpal blood flow (PBF). The study aimed to investigate how OTM affects PBF during orthodontic space closure.

METHODS

A total of 22 adolescent participants who required orthodontic space closure in mandibular posterior sectors were enrolled in a prospective clinical study. The same sliding mechanics, wires, and active elements were used. Patients were observed before OTM, after leveling before space closure, and at the 4th, 7th, 21st, and 28th during active space closure. PBF was measured with laser Doppler (LD) flowmetry. Dental models were obtained with an intraoral scanner.

RESULTS

The LD flow values decreased significantly during the observation period (2-way repeated measures analysis of variance, P <0.001). There was a significant difference in LD flow between tooth categories (2-way repeated measures analysis of variance, P <0.001). During space closure, the most pronounced LD flow reduction was observed in single-rooted teeth closest to the residual space. A higher speed of OTM was associated with a greater decrease in LD flow on day 4 of OTM (Pearson correlation, P = 0.0299).

CONCLUSIONS

Orthodontic space closure reduced PBF; it was lowest in the early stages of space closure and showed a tendency to increase during the first month. Anterior teeth closer to the interdental space that experiences more OTM and teeth that move faster during initial OTM had a higher risk of reduced blood flow.

Evaluation of the Rostral Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block via the Mental Foramen in Equids: In Vivo Efficacy Testing

The use of proper sedative and regional anesthetic protocols is essential when performing equine dental surgical procedures under standing sedation. The efficacy of the rostral inferior alveolar nerve block via the mental foramen has not been previously studied. Aims of this study included determining the efficacy of the block, investigating whether any region (labial mucosa, alveolar mucosa, or teeth) was more reliably anesthetized, and if differences in efficacy existed between bilateral and unilateral blocks. In this blinded trial, 10 horses each were randomly assigned to receive a left unilateral block, right unilateral block or bilateral blocks and 5 horses were bilateral controls. For unilateral groups, the contralateral side of the horse acted as its own unilateral control. Mechanical nociceptive stimulus methods were used to determine response to stimulus at time points pre-sedation, post-sedation, and post-injection at 10, 30, 60, and 90 min. Results were evaluated in 4 groups: unilateral blocks, unilateral controls, bilateral blocks and bilateral controls. Overall, all groups were significantly less likely to respond to stimulus at time points post-sedation, T10, and T30, whereas only blocked sites were less likely to respond at T60 and T90 compared to pre-sedation. There was no significant difference in response to stimuli of blocked sites between the 3 regions at all time points. Overall, at T60 and T90, blocks produced regional anesthesia in 73% and 55% of sites, respectively. This study demonstrated the equine mental foramen regional nerve block has varied efficacy, producing partial or incomplete regional anesthesia in some cases.

Pulp Sensitivity Testing in Multiple Sclerosis: Disease Duration and Sensory/Motor Associations-A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: This study explores a relatively unexplored aspect of multiple sclerosis (MS) by examining the sensitivity threshold of dental pulp as a potential indicator of neuropathy in MS patients. Building upon earlier research that focused on assessing the response to electrical pulp testing in MS patients who did not have a history of trigeminal neuralgia, this survey is aimed at delving into the relationship between MS duration and the threshold for stimulation in response to pulp sensitivity tests. Materials and Methods: This study encompassed a total of 124 maxillary central incisors from patients diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). The participants were uniform in terms of age, falling within the 18-50 years range, and all had RRMS with no history of trigeminal neuralgia. The electric pulp sensitivity test was conducted on all samples, and the results of the electric pulp testing (EPT) were recorded according to the grade of the pulp tester that elicited a response. The threshold was considered reached when the patient first experienced a burning sensation after EPT application and the use of 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane spray. Data analysis employed paired t-tests, Fisher's exact test, and Spearman correlation, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Based on the study's findings, the average response value to EPT was 2.69 ± 1.17, while the response time to the cold test was 2.61 ± 1.03 s. There was no statistically significant difference in the response to the cold test based on age (p = 0.45). However, it was observed that the mean response time to the cold test was significantly longer among male participants (p = 0.001). No significant differences were identified in the pulpal response to EPT or the cold test between patients with and without sensory-motor involvement (p > 0.05). Furthermore, Spearman's analysis revealed a noteworthy positive correlation between the electrical pulp threshold and the time taken to respond to the cold test (p = 0.025, r = 0.2). Conclusions: The utilization of the pulpal sensitivity test in MS patients holds promise for practical clinical use. Notably, individuals with a more extended duration of the disease exhibited a notably elevated threshold for both the EPT and the cold test conducted on their maxillary central incisors.

The influence of different cheek and lip retractors and emissivity on intraoral infrared thermography

OBJECTIVES

To assess the influence of two conventional and one adapted cheek and lip retractors and three emissivity setting values on intraoral infrared thermography (IT) temperature values.

METHODS

The sample was composed by 50 volunteers. Three cheek and lip retractors were tested: Group 1-flex retractor (FR); Group 2-FR adapted with Styrofoam; Group 3-U-type retractor (UR) for cheek and lip. All thermograms were acquired using FLIR T650 infrared camera. A set of three thermograms in frontal norm were acquired for each lip and cheek retractor at 0.91, 0.96, and 0.98ε, with an interval of 15 min between each set of images to avoid thermal interference. All images were assessed by two observers. The ROIs' mean temperature of the four upper incisors was recorded. Two-way ANOVA and Sidak post-test were used for data assessment with a significance level of 5%.

RESULTS

Group 3 showed higher mean temperature than Groups 1 and 2 at all emissivity settings for all assessed teeth (P < .05). 0.91ε showed higher temperature than 0.96ε and 0.98ε for all assessed variables (P < .01). Contralateral teeth assessed using Group 3 at 0.91ε showed statistical differences between each other (P < .05). No statistical difference was observed between contralateral teeth assessed using Groups 1 and 2 at 0.96ε and 0.98ε (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The choice of cheek and lip retractor and emissivity setting can interfere on intraoral IT temperature values. U-type cheek and lip retractor and 0.91ε setting should not be used for IT image acquisition when assessing dental tissues.

Digital precision meets dentin preservation: PriciGuide™ system for guided access opening

Traumatic injuries to maxillary central incisors often necessitate root canal treatment (RCT). However, traditional access cavity preparation can remove significant dentin, compromising tooth strength and long-term prognosis. This article explores the use of the PriciGuide™ system for minimally invasive access cavity preparation in such cases. PriciGuide™ system is a novel, patented system that utilizes a sleeveless guide technique to enhance accuracy and control during access procedures. This article presents a clinical case demonstrating the application of PriciGuide™ system for access cavity preparation in traumatized necrotic maxillary central incisors. The focus is on preserving dentin while achieving optimal access for successful RCT. By showcasing the effectiveness of PriciGuide™ system in this case, this article contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting its role in minimally invasive endodontics. The approach presented has the potential to improve long-term outcomes for patients with not only traumatized necrotic maxillary central incisors but also in teeth having prosthesis that requires RCT and in teeth with calcifications.

Revolutionizing Pulpectomy: An Observational Overview of Multigenerational Kedo Rotary File Systems in Primary Molars

A 4.5-year-old female child presented to the Department of Pediatric Dentistry with the chief complaints of sharp, localized pain in her lower left and right back teeth persisting for a week, indicative of irreversible pulpitis in teeth 74, 75, and 85. A single-visit pulpectomy was planned for all affected teeth, followed by full coronal restoration in two separate visits. Before the procedure, informed digital consent was taken from the parents. A topical anesthetic agent and inferior alveolar nerve block were administered for effective anesthesia. Rubber dam isolation was performed to ensure aseptic conditions, and access cavity preparation was carried out using appropriate burs. Biomechanical preparation (BMP) was performed using Kedo S Square (Kedo Dental, Chennai, India) in tooth 74, Kedo S Plus (Kedo Dental) in tooth 75, and Kedo Nano Plus (Kedo Dental) in tooth 85, with specific instrumentation techniques as per literature guidelines. The root canals were thoroughly cleaned and shaped to facilitate optimal disinfection and obturation. This case demonstrates the successful management of irreversible pulpitis in the lower primary molar using single-visit pulpectomy with Kedo single filing systems, highlighting the importance of effective BMP in pediatric endodontics.

Blood pH Changes in Dental Pulp of Patients with Pulpitis

The severity of pulpitis is a crucial factor in determining the suitable treatment. There are no clear objective indicators to assess the stage of pulp inflammation that could be used in clinical practice. The change in blood pH of the pulp during the inflammatory phase could hypothetically serve as an indicator of the pulp inflammation severity. The aim of this study was to assess the pH values in the pulpal blood of mature teeth in patients with symptomatic pulpitis, in comparison with the healthy controls. The study included patients with symptoms of pulpitis in premolar or molar teeth (Test group; n = 24, mean age 36.04, SD 7.10), and healthy controls (Control group, n = 6, mean age 24.5, SD 5.94) referred for extraction of premolars or third molars, for orthodontic reasons. The pulpal blood was taken at the opening of the endodontic access cavity, and the pH value was measured in both groups. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 27.0 program with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. The Mann-Whitney test for dependent samples was performed to evaluate the statistical difference between the groups. The patients with symptomatic pulpitis had significantly decreased pulpal blood pH compared to the healthy controls (p ≤ 0.05). The mean pulpal blood pH was 7.27 (SD 0.06) and 7.40 (SD 0.02) in Test and Control groups, respectively. In the Test group, the pulpal blood pH values were significantly lower in the patients who had symptoms for 3 days or more (7.25, SD 0.05) than in those who had symptoms for up to 3 days (7.33, SD 0.03) (p < 0.001). The pH value of the pulpal blood gradually declines in cases of symptomatic pulpitis, along with increasing duration of the symptoms.

Determination of the Ideal Tooth Surface and Pain Threshold to Improve the Efficacy of an Electric Pulp Tester in the Diagnosis of Pulp Sensitivity and Vitality in Premolar and Molar Teeth: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction The electric pulp tester (EPT) is an extensively used diagnostic tool in endodontics. However, several factors, especially the location and thickness of the tooth structures, such as enamel and dentine, can affect the result of an electric pulp test. Further, these factors also alter the pain threshold, which may lead to an inaccurate diagnosis. Hence, it is crucial to ascertain the optimal tooth surface that requires minimal time to elicit a response and pain threshold to enhance the effectiveness of the electric pulp tester for diagnosing the status of the pulp. Methods Fifty volunteers (36 males and 14 females) aged 18 to 32 years without any prior experience with the EPT were recruited. The EPT was placed on the seven premolar sites, and molar teeth with an appropriate electrolyte as a conducting medium were tested. The pain threshold values were recorded using the stopwatch, whereas pain assessment was carried out using the Memojis pain scale. An independent sample t-test and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data statistically. Results The buccal occlusal third in males (27.3±8.6 seconds) and the buccal middle third in females (28.5±8.2 seconds) showed lower response times than other sites in premolar teeth. The mesiobuccal cusp showed a lower response time for males (21.3±6.6 seconds) and females (21.5±6.2 seconds) in molar teeth. Of all the various sites tested, the majority of the individuals chose pain scores of 0 (36 in premolars, 84 in molars), two (138 in premolars, 180 in molars), and four (96 in premolars, 42 in molars) in both the premolars and molars. Conclusion The ideal sites for placing the EPT in premolars for males and females are the buccal occlusal third and the buccal middle third. At the same time, the mesiobuccal cusp is the ideal site for molars in both males and females, as it is responded to the quickest by the electric current. Most individuals have experienced a score of two (hurts a little bit) for the perceived pain using EPT for both the molars and premolars.

Orthodontic management of traumatic dental injuries in Norway and orthodontists' perceptions of referral routines: A quality assurance survey

BACKGROUND/AIM

Orthodontic treatment of patients with traumatic dental injuries is challenging, with limited evidence of routines and outcomes. The aims of this study were: (i) to describe how orthodontists perceive the information on traumatic dental injuries received by referral from the Public Dental Health Service before orthodontic treatment and (ii) to assess orthodontists' knowledge and working routines in managing traumatic dental injuries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were obtained through a survey of all practicing orthodontists registered as members of the Norwegian Association of Orthodontists (n = 203).

RESULTS

Eighty-three orthodontists were enrolled, most of whom had received their dental degree (73.0%) and specialist orthodontic training (88.5%) in Norway. They reported examining patients with a history of traumatic dental injury at weekly (34.2%) or monthly (38.0%) basis. In 85.5% of cases, they obtained a history of traumatic dental injury from patients. Half of the respondents (51.3%) favoured two-phase early orthodontic treatment for patients with an overjet ≥6 mm. The observation time and treatment strategy showed considerable discrepancies across traumatic dental injury diagnoses. Most (59.1%) orthodontists considered the information on previous traumatic dental injuries provided by the Public Dental Health Services referral 'inadequate', more commonly in cases of mild (83.5%) than severe (57.5%) traumatic dental injuries.

CONCLUSIONS

Orthodontic management of patients with traumatic dental injuries was characterised by lack of uniformity in both recommended observation time before orthodontic treatment and management strategy. The referral routines by the Public Dental Health Services for patients with traumatic dental injuries were perceived as 'inadequate' in terms of frequency and quality. The results indicate the requirement of standardisation of routines related to orthodontic management of traumatic dental injuries and referral routines by the Public Dental Health Services.