Assessment of the prevalence of radix entomolaris and distolingual canal in mandibular first molars in 15 countries: a multinational cross-sectional study with meta-analysis

Aim: The aim of this study was two-folded: i) to assess the prevalence of Distolingual Canal (DLC) and Radix Entomolaris (RE) in Mandibular First Molars (M1Ms), using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images and ii) to assess the impact of sociodemographic factors on the prevalence of these conditions worldwide. Methods: CBCT images were scanned retrospectively and the ones including bilateral M1Ms were included in the study. The evaluation was performed by 1 researcher in each country, trained with CBCT technology. A written and video instruction program explaining the protocol to be followed step-by-step was provided to all observers to calibrate them. The CBCT imaging screening procedure consisted of evaluating axial sections from coronal to apical. The presence of DLC and RE in M1Ms (yes/no) was identified and recorded. Results: Six thousand three hundred four CBCTs, representing 12,608 M1Ms, were evaluated. A significant difference was found between countries regarding the prevalence of both RE and DLC (P .05). Conclusion: The overall prevalence of RE and DLC in M1Ms was 3% and 22%. Additionally, both RE and DLC showed substantial bilaterally. These variations should be considered by endodontic clinicians during endodontic procedures in order to avoid potential complications

Association between asthma and caries-related salivary factors: a meta-analysis

WOS: 000573109800001PubMed: 32946317Objectives This meta-analysis aimed to examine the comprehensive conclusive evidence of association between asthma and caries-related salivary factors including salivary pH (SpH), salivary flow rate (SFR), salivary buffer capacity (SBC), and other salivary components. Methods Electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Open Gray databases) were searched for relevant studies. After screening, studies were selected and data were collected from each study. the risk of bias in individual studies and across studies was evaluated. Mean differences (MD) were used to measure the effect estimates in the comparisons of SFR, SpH, SBC, and other salivary components. Additional analyses, namely sensitivity, subgroup, and Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation analyses, were also conducted. Results Eighteen and fourteen studies were included in the qualitative and quantitative synthesis, respectively. Significantly higher SFR (MD = -0.3, 95% CI [-0.39, -0.2],p 0.05). Conclusions Notwithstanding the limitations of this study, the evidence showed that SFR whether stimulated or unstimulated was significantly reduced in asthma patients. SBC and SpH were significantly reduced in asthma patients only when saliva was unstimulated. No evidence was found regarding the association between asthma and other salivary components

Effectivity of patch test in determining the relationship between oral lichenoid lesions and dental amalgam: A meta-analysis

Hatipoglu, Omer/0000-0002-4628-8551WOS: 000541441000010Objective: This study aimed to make a meta-analysis of studies which examined the effectivity of the patch WA to determine the relationship between lichenoid lesions and dental amalgams. Methods: Prisma statement guide was followed for the meta-analysis. Electronic databases were scanned by 3 independent researchers. Funnel plot, Galbraith plot, and Egger Regression and Begg & Mazumdar Rank Correlation statistical analyzes were used to determining the publication bias. the odds ratio was computed through the Mantel-Haenszel WA with 95% confidence intervals. 12 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Results: in the No improvement vs Partial healing + Complete healing model, the lichenoid lesions in the positive patch WA group were associated with dental amalgam significantly (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.01, 2.07) (p = 0.022). in the No improvement + Partial healing vs Complete healing model, the lichenoid lesions in the positive patch WA group were associated with dental amalgam significantly (OR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.24, 2.96) (p = 0.001), too. Homogeneity was also identified according to the Cochrane Q and I-2 statistics in both of the analysis (P-Q = 0.826, I-2 = 00.00%). Conclusion: Patch testing is an effective method for detecting the relationship of oral lichenoid lesions with dental amalgams. Further studies should be done to support this hypothesis

Root canal morphology of anterior permanent teeth in Jordanian population using two classification systems: a cone-beam computed tomography study

Abstract Background Adequate knowledge of root canal morphology and its variation is essential for success of root canal treatment and to overcome treatemnt failure. The aim of this study was to investigate the root and canal morphology of mandibular anterior teeth using 2 classification systems. Methods 3342 lower anteriors were evaluated from 557 CBCT scans. The images were examined in sagittal, axial and coronal views using a CS 3D imaging software (V3.10.4, Carestream Dental). Demographic data recorded, the number of roots and canal’s morphology were described according to Vertucci and Ahmed classifications. Results Frequency of Type I configuration was significantly the highest in incisors and canines (76%, N = 2539), followed by Type III (20.6%, N = 687). Type II (1.1%, N = 37), IV (1.1%, N = 37), and V (0.3%, N = 11) were rarely encountered. 0.9% (N = 31) of the teeth could not be classified with the Vertucci System. The frequency of 2 roots (2MA in Ahmed classification) which has no correspondence in the Vertucci classification, was 1.1% (N = 38), it was significantly higher in canines and in females (35 canines and 3 laterals). A moderate correlation in root canal morpology was found between the left and right sides (V > 0.30). 80% (N = 2538) of the teeth did not exhibit any divergence/merging. The bifurcation level occurred mostly in the middle third of the root. Conclusions One fourth of anterior teeth had variation from the simple type I canal configuration and therefore requires attention during treatment. The new classification system offers a more accurate and simplified presentation of canal morphology. Clinical relevance The prevalence and mid root bifurcation of second canal in lower anteriors requires attention to ensure adequate quality root canal treatment without compromising the integrity of teeth