Enamel pearls and cervical enamel projections on 2 maxillary molars with localized periodontal disease: case report and histologic study

Presented here is an unusual case of teeth with aberrant enamel. One small and 3 large enamel pearls were identified in 2 maxillary third molars of a patient. One long enamel projection was connected to one of the large enamel pearls, along with 2 short cervical enamel projections. The ectopic enamel was associated with advanced localized periodontal destruction. After extraction, the molars were investigated radiographically and under the scanning electron microscope. The 3 large pearls contained distinct dentinal cones. The enamel of the pearls and the long cervical projection exhibited most of the structural attributes of crown enamel but were somewhat irregular, with variable shape and course of the prisms. Morphologic considerations suggest that these enamel pearls were aberrations and should not be regarded as attempts at new cusp or new tooth formation.

Identification of G-protein coupled receptor subunits in normal human dental pulp

To respond appropriately to their environment, dental pulp cells must integrate informational input from multiple ligands, such as neuropeptides, growth factors, and vasoactive amines. These ligands act through multiple intracellular signaling pathways. G-protein coupled receptor subunits play a major role in this process, providing a mechanism for coordinated regulation of both messengers and effectors. Increasing number of neuropeptides have been found in pulpal tissue. However, there is no data about molecular identification of G-protein subunits in human dental pulp. To identify the postreceptor mechanism involved in dental pulp cell signal transduction, we performed a Western blot analysis of different G-protein subunits. Biopsy specimens of human dental pulp were prepared and subjected to sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, followed by analysis with appropriate antibodies. We detected G alpha q/alpha 11, short and long forms of G alpha s, beta common, Gio-3, and Gil-2 antigens with a molecular weight approximately 42 kDa, 42 and 45 kDa, 36 kDa, 40 kDa, and 40 kDa, respectively. These results indicate that human pulp cells possess the cellular machinery to respond to sensory neuropeptides when they are released from the peptidergic nerve fibers. On this basis, the relationships of postdevelopmental, age-dependent, and pathophysiological disorders of G-proteins subunits in dental pulp could be studied.

Talon cusp affecting permanent maxillary lateral incisors in 2 family members

The term talon cusp refers to a relatively rare dental anomaly in which an accessory cusplike structure projects from the cingulum area or cement-enamel junction. The condition can occur in either maxillary or mandibular anterior teeth in both the primary and permanent dentitions. This article reports 2 cases of talon cusp affecting consanguineous first cousins: a case of bilateral talon cusps on the permanent maxillary lateral incisors of a 16-year-old girl, and a case of talon cusp on the maxillary permanent lateral incisor of an 11-year-old boy. The talon cusps caused clinical problems that were related to caries or occlusal interferences. The presence of the dental anomaly in 2 members of the same family suggests that genetic inheritance may be a causative (related) factor. Examination of relatives could facilitate early diagnosis of the talon cusp and aid in preventing carious and occlusal problems.

In vitro effect of the resin component bisphenol A on substrate adherence capacity of macrophages

This study was design to investigate the "in vitro" effect of bisphenol A (BPA), a component of resin used in dentistry, on viability, and substrate adherence capacity of macrophages. Peritoneal macrophages were obtained from Wistar rats and resuspended in RPMI-1640 medium. Viability was determined by trypan blue exclusion. As a test of macrophage adhesion, the adherence capacity of macrophages to a plastic surface was determined and the adherence index was calculated. Assays were conducted in Eppendorf tubes for 60 min of incubation at 37 degrees C in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2 in air. BPA did not alter significantly macrophage viability at concentrations as high as 10(-5) M, but BPA decreased in a dose-dependent manner the adherence index of rat peritoneal macrophages. Control peritoneal macrophages showed an adherence index = 81.5 +/- 7.9%. In the presence of 10(-8) M BPA, the Al of macrophages decreased to 41.4 +/- 12.2% (p < 0.05). Higher BPA concentrations (10(-7) to 10(-5) M) also caused a significant inhibition of the adherence index. Half-maximal inhibition (IC50) was obtained at 4.92 +/- 0.39 x 10(-6) M BPA. The in vitro study shows that the resin component BPA can alter macrophage adhesion. Taking into account that adhesion is the first step in the phagocytic process of macrophages and in antigen presentation, BPA could inhibit macrophage function and modulate immune and inflammatory responses in dental pulp and periapical tissues.

Comparative effects of two endodontic irrigants, chlorhexidine digluconate and sodium hypochlorite, on macrophage adhesion to plastic surfaces

This study was designed to compare the "in vitro" effect of chlorhexidine digluconate, proposed as a new irrigant solution, with sodium hypochlorite, the currently irrigant solution used to disinfect the root canal system before obturation of the canal, on substrate adherence capacity of macrophages. Inflammatory macrophages were obtained from Wistar rats and resuspended in RPMI-1640 medium. The adherence capacity of macrophages to a plastic surface was determined. Assays were conducted in Eppendorf tubes for 15 min of incubation at 37 degrees C in an humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2 in air. The adherence index was calculated. Chlorhexidine digluconate inhibited substrate adherence capacity of macrophages in all conditions tested. Half-maximal inhibition (IC50) was observed at 1:5.6 dilution. Chlorhexidine digluconate was less potent than 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (IC50 = 1:24.1 dilution) in inhibiting substrate adherence capacity of macrophages. Taking into account that substrate adherence is the first step in the phagocytic process of macrophages and in antigen presentation, chlorhexidine digluconate could inhibit macrophage function and modulate inflammatory reactions at the level of inflamed periapical tissues.

Number of roots and canals in maxillary first premolars: study of an Andalusian population

A study of 150 extracted maxillary first premolars from citizens of Seville, Andalusía, southern Spain, revealed 60 teeth with one root (40.0%), 85 teeth with two roots (56.7%) and five teeth with three roots (3.3%). The distribution of root canal shapes in the sample showed that all teeth with two or three roots had type I root canals (each canal had one apical foramen). Conversely, most of the single-rooted maxillary first premolars had root canal shape type II (two canals converging in the same apical foramen). Only 1.3% of the teeth had a unique orifice in the pulp chamber and only one root canal. These results emphasized the importance of good knowledge of the root canal morphology and the need for a careful radiographic examination as part of competent root canal therapy of maxillary first premolars.

Concomitant hypohyperdontia: simultaneous occurrence of a mesiodens and agenesis of a maxillary lateral incisor

A 13-year-old boy appeared for evaluation with a missing maxillary left lateral incisor. He also had an abnormally shaped tooth in the midline between his maxillary central incisors. This mesiodens had an incompletely developed root. The unusual association of these 2 anomalies is discussed as a possible transposition of the lateral incisor to the mesiodens position.

Effects of formocresol alone vs. formocresol with eugenol on macrophage adhesion to plastic surfaces

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare the in-vitro effects of a European-based formocresol formulation that incorporates eugenol with formocresol alone on the adhesion of macrophages to plastic surfaces.

METHODS

Macrophages were obtained from Wistar rats. The adherence capacity of macrophages to a plastic surface was determined. Assays were carried out in Eppendorf tubes incubated for 15 min at 37 degrees C in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2. The adherence index was calculated.

RESULTS

Results showed that both formocresol/eugenol and formocresol alone significantly decreased the adherence index of macrophages. The formocresol formulation that incorporated eugenol was more potent in inhibiting macrophage adhesion than formocresol alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Taking into account that adherence to a substrate is the first step in the phagocytic process of macrophages and in antigen presentation, both formocresol formulations could inhibit macrophage function and modulate immune and inflammatory responses in dental pulp and periapical tissues.

Intracoronal radiolucency in an incompletely erupted permanent molar with a diagnosis of pericoronitis: importance of radiographic examination

Because of clinical signs and symptoms, a diagnosis of pericoronitis in a partially erupted, partially impacted first molar was made. A more thorough diagnosis was made with the help of a periapical radiograph that showed caries and thus revealed an irreversible pulpitis. Appropriate treatment was the result.

A case of combined dental development abnormalities: importance of a thorough examination

This report describes a case of combined dental development abnormalities. A patient with a previous ectopically erupted supernumerary maxillary canine presented a new ectopically erupted supernumerary premaxillary tooth with dens invaginatus (Oehlers' type 2) and an aberrant coronal morphology, including a pit in the distal portion of the palatal surface. This tooth would have been diagnosed earlier if a panoramic radiograph had been taken at the first visit 5 months before. This case represents a good example of combined dental development abnormalities, i.e., a numerical anomaly (the supernumerary tooth), an alteration of dental position (the ectopic eruption), an alteration of dental morphology (the aberrant coronal shape), and the invagination. This case highlights the importance of a thorough examination, including complementary radiography, of patients with a dental anomaly.

The effect of the bleaching agent sodium perborate on macrophage adhesion in vitro: implications in external cervical root resorption

The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vitro effect of sodium perborate, which is used as a bleaching agent in the treatment of discolored pulpless teeth, on substrate adherence capacity of macrophages. Inflammatory macrophages were obtained from Wistar rats and resuspended in RPMI-1640 medium. As a test of macrophage adhesion, the adherence capacity of macrophages to a plastic surface was determined. Assays were conducted in Eppendorf tubes for 15 min of incubation at 37 degrees C in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2. The adherence index was calculated. Results showed that sodium perborate decreased in a dose-dependent manner and decreased significantly (p < 0.05) the adherence index of rat peritoneal macrophages. Sodium perborate was less potent than sodium hypochlorite and eugenol in inhibiting macrophage adhesion. The inhibitory effect of sodium perborate on macrophage adhesion further supports the concept that this agent is not implicated in external cervical root resorption associated with intracoronal bleaching.

Effect of eugenol on macrophage adhesion in vitro to plastic surfaces

This study was performed to investigate the in vitro effect of eugenol on substrate adherence capacity of macrophages. Macrophages were obtained from Wistar rats. The adherence capacity of macrophages to the plastic surface of Eppendorf tubes was determined. Assays were carried out in these tubes for 15 min of incubation at 37 degrees C in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2 in air. Control peritoneal macrophages showed an adherence index = 52.5%. Eugenol decreased the adherence index of macrophages in a dose-dependent manner. A 1:1000 dilution of eugenol decreased the adherence index of macrophages by 16.6% (P < 0.05). Lower dilutions (1:100 and 1:10) greatly decreased the adherence index by 51% and 96.2% respectively (P < 0.01). Taking into account that substrate adherence is the first step in the phagocytic process of macrophages and in antigen presentation, eugenol could inhibit macrophage function and modulate immune and inflammatory reactions in dental pulp and periapical tissues.

Effect in vitro of Tifell (formocresol-eugenol) on macrophage adhesion

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect in vitro on macrophage adhesion of Tifell (formocresoleugenol), used as an intracanal medicament and in therapeutic pulpotomies in primary teeth, Macrophages were obtained from Wistar rats. As a test of macrophage phagocytic function the adherence capacity of macrophages to a plastic surface was determined. Assays were carried out in Eppendorf tubes after 15 min of incubation at 37 degrees C in a humidified atmosphere of 5% carbon dioxide. The adherence index (AI) was calculated. Results showed that Tifell decreased significantly (P < 0.05) the AI of macrophages. Half maximal inhibition of AI was obtained at 1:334.5 Tifell dilution (AI = 27.75; P < 0.05). Taking into account that substrate adherence is the first step in the phagocytic action of macrophages and in antigen presentation, Tifell could inhibit macrophage function and modulate immune and inflammatory responses in dental pulp and periapical tissues.

In vitro effect of parachlorophenol and camphorated parachlorophenol on macrophages

The purpose of this study was to investigate the "in vitro" effect of parachlorophenol and camphorated parachlorophenol, used in endodontics for the disinfection of root canals, on the substrate adherence capacity of macrophages. Inflammatory macrophages were obtained from Wistar rats and resuspended in RPMI-1640 medium. As a test of macrophage phagocytic function, the adherence capacity of macrophages to a plastic surface was determined. Assays were conducted in Eppendorf tubes for 15 min of incubation at 37 degrees C in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2. The adherence index was calculated. Results showed that parachlorophenol and camphorated parachlorophenol significantly decreased the substrate adherence capacity of inflammatory macrophages. Taking into account that adhesion is the first step in the phagocytic process of macrophages and in antigen presentation, parachlorophenol and camphorated parachlorophenol could inhibit macrophage function and modulate immune and inflammatory reactions in periapical tissues.

In vitro study of the effect of sodium hypochlorite and glutaraldehyde on substrate adherence capacity of macrophages

The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vitro effect of two irrigation solutions used in endodontics (5.25% sodium hypochlorite and 1% glutaraldehyde) on substrate adherence capacity of macrophages to determine if these substances can alter macrophage function. Inflammatory macrophages were obtained from Wistar rats and resuspended in RPMI-1640 medium. Substrate adherence capacity assays were carried out in Eppendorf tubes for 15 min of incubation at 37 degrees C in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2. The adherence index was calculated. Results showed that both sodium hypochlorite and glutaraldehyde significantly decreased the substrate adherence capacity of inflammatory macrophages. To take into account that adhesion is the first step in the phagocytic process of macrophages and in antigen presentation, sodium hypochlorite and glutaraldehyde could inhibit macrophage function and reduce inflammatory reactions in periapical tissues when they are used in root-canal therapy.

Multiple dens invaginatus affecting maxillary lateral incisors and a supernumerary tooth

Dens invaginatus is a developmental variation resulting from an alteration in the normal growth pattern of the dental papilla of a tooth. This anomaly occurs predominantly in maxillary permanent lateral incisors. Multiple occurrence in maxillary incisor teeth in the same patient has frequently been reported, and examination of bilateral teeth for the anomaly is often carried out routinely. This paper reports an unusual case of multiple invaginations, including dens invaginatus affecting maxillary lateral incisors and a supernumerary tooth and minor invaginations of the upper canines. Moreover, the case illustrates the importance of examining all the teeth in patients who present with dens invaginatus and palatal pits in incisors and canines. The possibility that the supernumerary tooth had resulted from gemination of the lateral incisor tooth germ is discussed.